JP2007054406A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of making a player continuously hold expectations of the rise of the possibility of a "big winning" or the like until the presence/absence of a ready-to-win state becomes clear, keeping the feeling elevation of the player and easily making the player be absorbed in a game. <P>SOLUTION: In the game machine, drawing is performed on the basis of the entry of a game ball to a start winning port, a plurality of patterns are variably displayed on the basis of the result of the drawing, and a special game is executed when it is judged that the game is to be shifted from a normal game to the special game. The accuracy of shifting to the special game or the accuracy of executing a ready-to-win performance is varied and reported until the timing at which the presence/absence of the ready-to-win performance becomes clear to the player by the stop patterns of the patterns, and the established value of the accuracy is reported at the timing. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a ball game machine.

  Conventionally, a special symbol is variably displayed on the display device based on the winning of the game ball at the start winning opening, and the bonus symbol is awarded only when the variably displayed special symbol is a predetermined symbol. There is a pachinko machine (so-called first type pachinko machine) of a type that executes a special game advantageous to a person. In general, such a pachinko machine adopts a configuration in which a lottery is performed by using a winning at a start winning opening as a trigger to determine whether or not a big win and a special symbol stop symbol is determined according to the determination.

  Also, with such a pachinko machine, various effects are executed by voice, images, etc. during normal play or from when the special symbol is variably displayed until it is stopped. In particular, in order to increase the player's expectation for a special game, a plurality of decorative symbols are variably displayed during a special symbol variation display, so-called reach state (a state in which there is a possibility of shifting to a special game. For example, variation display A configuration in which a special effect (so-called reach effect) is executed when the decorative symbols are stopped one by one in order, and when the last decorative symbol is aligned, the jackpot symbol is completed) Often used.

Here, conventionally, when performing various effects, various configurations are known for notifying the possibility of a “big hit” or reach state at a predetermined timing. For example, a configuration is known in which the probability is directly displayed during the reach effect, or the possibility of becoming a “hit” (reliability with respect to the reach effect) is notified by the effect mode itself. On the other hand, there is a possibility that the game will reach a “big hit” or reach state before execution of the reach effect, for example, before or after the start of the variable display of decorative symbols, etc., and before the player knows whether or not there is a reach. The structure which alert | reports is also known. For example, there is a possibility of changing the lighting color of the winning reserve ball number lamp to the start winning opening according to the possibility of becoming a `` big hit '', or causing a character etc. to appear on the display device during the variable display and becoming a `` big hit '' The structure etc. which alert | report this are proposed (for example, refer patent document 1).
Patent 3101646

  However, in the prior art that informs the possibility of “big hit” etc. before the execution of reach production, the possibility of “big hit” etc. is surely announced at an early stage before the presence or absence of reach is revealed to the player. Therefore, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation that the possibility will continue to increase from the start of the variable display of decorative symbols etc. until the player becomes aware of the presence or absence of reach. Can not.

  In particular, if a player is definitely informed that there is a low probability of being a “big hit” at an early stage before the presence or absence of reach is revealed to the player, the player's interest in the subsequent performance will decline significantly. , There is a risk that the player's willingness to play may be impaired.

  Therefore, the present invention allows the player to continuously have a sense of expectation for the possibility of “big hit” or the like until the presence or absence of reach is known, and to keep the player feeling high, An object is to provide a gaming machine that can be easily engulfed.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the gaming machine of the present invention performs lottery based on winning of a game ball at the start winning opening, and variably displays a plurality of symbols on the basis of the result of the lottery. When a game is determined to be transferred from a special game to a special game, the game machine executes the special game, and the state in the three-dimensional virtual space in which the symbol display object for displaying the symbol is arranged is viewed from the virtual camera. The virtual camera and the symbol display object are notified so that the accuracy of shifting to a special game or the probability of executing the reach effect is notified by the image display means for displaying as a screen and the size of the symbol display object on the screen. Relative distance control means for controlling the relative distance between the player and the relative distance control means. The accuracy until the timing is informed by fluctuations, as ascertained values of the accuracy in the timing is informed, and controlling the relative distance.

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to continuously give the player a sense of expectation for an increase in the probability of shifting to the special game until the timing, and as a result, the accuracy is definitely notified early. Compared to the conventional configuration, it is possible to keep the player feeling high and to easily engulf the game.

  In this case, the relative distance control means resets the relative distance at the start of the variation display of the symbol, or based on the relative distance in the previous variation display of the symbol. It is desirable to set an initial value for a typical distance.

  The relative distance control means may control the relative distance so that the accuracy is notified in a predetermined case.

  According to the control method of the present invention, a lottery is performed based on a winning of a game ball at a start winning opening, and a plurality of symbols are variably displayed based on a result of the lottery, and a game is transferred from a normal game to a special game. A control method for a gaming device that executes a special game when it is determined, the probability of reaching a special game or a reach effect until a timing at which the player can determine whether or not a reach effect is determined by the stop symbol of the symbol The method includes a step of notifying the accuracy of execution of the variable and a step of notifying the fixed value of the accuracy at the timing.

  The control method of the present invention can be implemented by a computer, and a computer program therefor can be used for various types of media such as a CD-ROM, a magnetic disk, a semiconductor memory, and a communication network, for example, a television for business use or home use. It can be installed or loaded into a memory in an information processing apparatus such as a game machine or a personal computer. In this case, these video game machines and personal computers function as game devices that simulate the game machine of the present invention.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to continuously have a sense of expectation for the probability of becoming a `` big hit '' or reach state until the player knows whether or not reach is reached, and to keep the player feeling high, It is possible to provide a gaming machine that can be easily put into play.

  Next, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the present embodiment, a so-called first-class pachinko machine (hereinafter referred to as a pachinko machine) will be described as an example of a gaming machine.

(Pachinko machine 100)
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of an external configuration of the pachinko machine according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 1, a pachinko machine (game machine) 100 includes a game board (gauge board) that constitutes a game board surface and a game machine frame that supports and fixes the game board.

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

  The inner rail 109 and the outer rail 110 are for guiding the launched game balls to the game area 115.

  The nail 101 and the windmills 102a and 102b are provided at predetermined positions in the game area 115. For example, the movement of the game ball that enters the game area 115 and moves from top to bottom in FIG. Or the winning of the game ball to the general winning port 111, the start winning port 112, and the big winning port 113 and the passing of the game ball to the normal symbol operating gate 103 are adjusted.

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

  In this embodiment, the 7-segment LED 116 is caused to emit light based on the winning of the game ball at the start winning opening 112, and “3” and “7”, which are special symbols corresponding to “big hit”, and “losing”. After the corresponding special symbol “-” is displayed in a variable manner, one of these three types of special symbols is stopped and displayed based on the result of the lottery.

  The four LEDs 117 for displaying the number of lottery results held based on the winning of the game ball at the start winning opening 112 sequentially emit light each time the game ball wins the start winning opening 112, and also display a special symbol change display. Turns off sequentially when starting. That is, the number of light emission of the four LEDs 117 corresponding to the upper limit value of the number of holdings is notified to the player of the current number of holdings of the lottery result based on the winning of the game ball to the start winning opening 112. As described above, in this embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of holds of the lottery result based on the winning of the game ball to the start winning opening 112 is set to four. Then, when the number of reserves is four and a game ball is won at the start winning opening 112, the number corresponding to winning at the start winning opening 112 without performing a lottery based on the winning of the game ball. Only to play the prize ball.

  The effect display device 107 is provided at a substantially central position of the game area 115 so that the player can easily recognize it, and includes a liquid crystal display device for displaying various effects such as reach effects. ing.

  The effect display device 107 of the present embodiment displays a state in a three-dimensional virtual space in which a three-dimensional object (design display object) for displaying a decorative design is arranged in a decorative design display area as viewed from a virtual camera. By doing so, the decorative symbols are displayed in a variable manner. The decorative symbol is a symbol for visually producing the lottery result.

  In the present embodiment, the first to third symbol display objects arranged in substantially one row in the three-dimensional virtual space are arranged in substantially one row in the three-dimensional virtual space so that the respective decorative symbols can be seen from the virtual camera. Then, for example, “0” to “9” and “A” to “F” are added to the first to third symbol display objects as “0”, “1”, “2”, “3” as decorative symbols. ”,“ 4 ”,“ 5 ”,“ 6 ”,“ 7 ”,“ 8 ”,“ 9 ”,“ A ”,“ B ”,“ C ”,“ D ”,“ E ”,“ F ” One of “0” to “9” and “A” to “F” is displayed after the variable display from the top to the bottom of the three-dimensional virtual space (corresponding to the top to the bottom in FIG. 1) in order. One is stopped. When a combination of specific decorative symbols is stopped and displayed on the first to third symbol display objects, it indicates that the lottery result is a “hit”. On the other hand, if the combination of the decorative symbols stopped and displayed on the first to third symbol display objects does not correspond to any of the specific decorative symbol combinations, the lottery result is “lost”. Show.

  Furthermore, the effect display device 107 according to the present embodiment is configured so that a player can determine whether or not a reach is detected by a stop pattern of some decorative symbols during the variation display of the decorative symbols (in the case of the present embodiment, the first and second timings). The timing at which the stop symbol is displayed on the symbol display object (hereinafter referred to as “reach presence / absence determination timing”), and the accuracy of shifting to the special game is informed, and the accuracy is determined at the reach determination timing. It is comprised so that it may alert | report.

  Here, the probability of shifting to a special game takes an appropriately set value for production while it is fluctuating, but it corresponds to the probability of shifting to a special game as a fixed value at the reach determination timing. Take the value. The probability of shifting to the special game at the reach presence / absence determination timing can be obtained as the reliability with respect to the effect up to the reach presence / absence determination timing (hereinafter referred to as “the effect before reach determination”). For example, it is assumed that there are four types of effects A to D before reaching reach. Further, it is assumed that the probability of “big hit” is 1/100. At this time, if the pre-reach effect is selected with a probability as shown in FIG. 13A in each of the cases of “big hit” / “losing”, for example, the reliability for the type B effect is: It can be calculated as about 0.67% by the calculation formula of (1/100 × 20/100) / {(1/100 × 20/100) + (99/100 × 30/100)} × 100 (FIG. 13 (b)).

  In addition to the first to third symbol display objects, the effect display device 107 is a character for giving a player a sense of expectation of these background images, transition to a reach state, and “big hit”. An image is also displayed. Further, the effect display device 107 may display the number of winnings of the game ball at the start winning opening 112 and notify the player of the current number of winnings at the starting winning opening 112.

  Below the effect display device 107, an ordinary electric accessory 104 is provided. The ordinary electric accessory 104 opens and closes to guide the game ball to the start winning opening 112.

  A big prize opening 113 is formed below the ordinary electric accessory 104. The big prize opening 113 becomes a “hit” and when the game shifts to a special game, the big prize opening door 120 falls and opens. In the present embodiment, a maximum of 15 unit games are executed in a special game. More specifically, during a unit game, when a game ball passes through a specific area (so-called V zone) 121 formed in the big prize opening 113, it may shift to the next unit game. As much as possible, a maximum of 15 unit games are executed. In the present embodiment, the specific area 121 is formed in the special winning opening 113, but the specific area 121 is not necessarily formed. In this case, when shifting to the special game, it is guaranteed that 15 unit games will be executed.

  The center decorative component 105 is a molded product including a translucent part, and is provided around the effect display device 107. The center decoration part 105 plays a role of protecting the effect display device 107 or decorating the pachinko machine 100. Further, in the pachinko machine 100 shown in FIG. 1, the game ball that has entered the through portion 105 a formed at the upper part of the center decorative part 105 passes through the center decorative part 105 and is placed below the center decorative part 105. A flow path is formed so as to move to the formed stage 105b.

  The normal symbol operation gate 103 is provided between the normal electric accessory 104 and the inner rail 109. For example, a game ball can pass through the normal symbol operation gate 103 from top to bottom. It is configured.

  The normal symbol display device 108 is provided at a position facing the normal symbol operation gate 103 through the normal electric accessory 104. For example, the 7-segment LED 122 for displaying the normal symbol and the normal symbol operation gate 103 for the game ball are provided. And four LEDs 123 that display the number of passages to. Here, the normal symbol is a symbol for indicating whether or not the normal electric accessory 104 is to be released according to the result of a lottery performed with the passage of the game ball to the normal symbol operating gate 103 as a trigger.

  The normal symbol display device 108 causes the 7-segment LED 122 to emit light based on the passage of the game ball to the normal symbol operation gate 103 and, for example, “7” and “−” as the normal symbols are alternately displayed in a variable manner. Either “7” or “−” is stopped and displayed. Then, when “7” is stopped and displayed, it is determined as “winning” and the ordinary electric accessory 104 is opened. On the other hand, when “−” is stopped and displayed, it is “lost”, and the ordinary electric accessory 104 is not opened.

  The four LEDs 123 that display the number of passes of the game ball to the normal symbol operation gate 103 sequentially emit light each time the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 103, and when the normal symbol variation display is started. Turns off sequentially. That is, the number of passages of the normal symbol operation gate 103 is notified to the player by the number of light emission of the four LEDs 123.

  The general winning opening 111 is provided between the normal symbol operating gate 103 and the inner rail 109. When a gaming ball wins the general winning opening 111, a predetermined number of gaming balls are paid out.

  The out port 114 is provided at the lowermost part of the game area 115 and collects game balls that have not won any of the start winning port 112, the general winning port 111, and the big winning port 113. The collected game balls are released to the outside of the pachinko machine 100.

  The gaming machine frame includes an outer frame 124, a front frame 125, a transparent plate 126, a door 127, and a ball tray unit 128.

  The outer frame 124 has an opening and is a frame for fixing the pachinko machine 100 to a position where it should be installed. The front frame 125 is a frame body aligned with the opening portion of the outer frame 124, and is attached to the outer frame 124 so as to be freely opened and closed by a hinge mechanism or the like.

  The front frame 125 has a mechanism for launching a game ball, a mechanism for detachably storing a game board, a mechanism for guiding or collecting the game ball, and the like. Further, on the peripheral edge portion of the front frame 125, electrical decoration parts 130a to 130d such as game effect lamps that are turned on according to the state of the game are provided.

  The transparent plate 126 is for protecting the game board, and is, for example, a transparent glass plate. A player plays a game through the transparent plate 126 while seeing through the game area 115 of the game board.

  The door 127 is for supporting the transparent plate 126, and is attached to the front frame 125 so as to be freely opened and closed by a hinge mechanism or the like.

  The ball tray unit 128 is provided below the front frame 125. The ball tray 128a stores a certain amount of game balls (rental balls and prize balls), a mechanism for storing game balls, and fires the game balls. A mechanism for sending out the game ball to the mechanism for the above, a ball removal mechanism for extracting the stored game ball into a ball exit storage box (so-called dollar box), a firing handle 131, an operation switch 132, and the like.

  In the pachinko machine 100 of this embodiment, a push button type is adopted as the ball removing mechanism. More specifically, when the player presses the bullet release button 128b, a part of the bottom surface of the ball tray 128a is opened, and the game ball stored in the ball tray 128a is released to the outside.

  The launch handle 131 is operated by the player when launching the game ball toward the game area 115. When the player rotates the launch handle 131, the game ball is guided toward the game area 115 by being guided by the inner rail 109 and the outer rail 110 at a speed corresponding to the rotation angle.

  The operation switch 132 is operated by the player, and a game effect is executed by reflecting the operation content. In this embodiment, the operation switch 132 includes a push button and a cross key (not shown).

  In addition, speakers 133 for reproducing and outputting sound effects are provided on both sides of the ball removal mechanism 128b.

(Outline of the game)
Here, an outline of the game in the pachinko machine 100 will be described.

  First, in the state where the rented game balls (rental balls) are placed on the ball tray 128a, when the player turns the launch handle 131 in the clockwise direction toward FIG. 1, the game balls are moved to the game area. Fired at 115. The game ball that has entered the game area 115 collides with the nail 101 or the windmill 102 formed in the game area 115, and moves in the game area 115 from top to bottom while moving irregularly.

  When the game ball wins the start winning opening 112, a predetermined number of winning balls (four winning balls in the present embodiment) are paid out to the ball tray 128a, and the special symbol display device 106 displays a variation display of the symbols. Be started. Further, in the effect display device 107, the first to third symbol display objects are displayed in the decorative symbol display area, and the decorative symbol variation display is started in each object. Thereafter, a predetermined special symbol is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106, and a combination (for example, the same decorative symbol) of a predetermined decorative symbol corresponding to “big hit” is stopped and displayed on the first to third symbol display objects. Then, it becomes a “hit” and the game shifts from the normal game to the special game.

  In the special game, the big prize opening door 120 falls down and the big prize opening 113 is opened. Each time a game ball wins the open big winning opening 113, a predetermined number of prize balls (15 prize balls in this embodiment) are paid out. In this embodiment, when the grand prize opening 113 is opened for 29.5 seconds or when a specific number of game balls are won in the grand prize opening 113, the grand prize opening door 120 is raised. Then, the big prize opening 113 is closed. In the following description, when the specific number is 10, that is, either the big prize opening 113 is opened for 29.5 seconds or ten game balls are won in the big prize opening 113. A description will be given by taking as an example a case where the grand prize opening door 120 is raised when the state is reached.

  When the game ball passes through a specific area (so-called V zone) formed in the big prize opening 113 while the big prize opening 113 is open as described above, the big prize opening 113 is obtained. Will open again. In the present embodiment, the opening / closing operation of the grand prize winning opening 113 is performed up to 15 times. That is, as described above, in the special game, a unit game in which the opening / closing of the special winning opening 113 is set as a set is performed 15 times at maximum.

  In this way, when a special game is executed, a large amount of prize balls are paid out in a short period of time, and a great merit can be given to the player.

  When the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 103, the normal symbol display device 108 (7-segment LED 122) starts to display the normal symbol in a variable manner. Thereafter, when a predetermined normal symbol (“7” in the present embodiment) is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 108 (7-segment LED 122), the normal electric accessory 104 opens and closes. When the ordinary electric combination 104 is opened, it is possible for the game ball to win the start winning opening 112 without passing between nails (so-called life nails) above the start winning opening.

  Further, in accordance with the result of the lottery executed based on the winning at the start winning opening, after the special game is executed, the mode is changed to either the “probability change mode” or the “short time mode”. At this time, when shifting to the “probability change mode”, “7” is displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display device 106, and the effect display device 107 executes an effect indicating that it shifts to the “probability change mode”. , Inform the player. Further, when shifting to the “short time mode”, the special symbol display device 106 displays “3” as a special symbol, and the effect display device 107 executes an effect indicating that the mode is shifted to the “short time mode”. Inform the player.

  Here, the “probability change mode” is a mode in which a “big hit” is made, and after a special game is executed, a state in which the probability of becoming a “big hit” is higher than in a normal game is formed. Further, in this “probability change mode”, after the execution of the special game, until the next special game starts, the operation of the ordinary electric accessory 104 is different from that in the normal game, and the game ball is placed in the start winning opening 112. It is also designed to form a state where it is easy to win.

  On the other hand, the “short-time mode” is a “hit”, and after the special game is executed, until the game is executed 100 times, for example, the operation of the ordinary electric actor 104 is different from the normal game. This mode is a mode in which a ball is easy to win at the start winning opening 112 and returns to the normal game when the predetermined number of games are executed.

  As described above, when the transition to the “probability change mode” is performed after the execution of the special game, it is possible to prevent the holding ball from being reduced as much as possible until the next special game is started. Further, even when the mode is shifted to the “short time mode”, it is possible to prevent the holding ball from being reduced as much as possible for a while after the execution of the special game.

  When a game ball wins the general winning opening 111, a predetermined number of prize balls (four prize balls in this embodiment) are paid out to the ball tray 128a. If the game ball has not won any winning opening, the game ball flows into the out opening 114.

(System configuration)
Next, a system configuration such as an internal configuration of the pachinko machine 100 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the system configuration of the pachinko machine 100. As shown in FIG.

  Inside the housing of the pachinko machine 100, there are a main control board 201, a sub control board 202 connected to the main control board 201, a winning hole board 203, an LED drive board 204, a launch control board 205, a payout control board 206, A power receiving board 207, an electric decoration board 208, and the like are provided.

(Main control board 201)
The main control board 201 is provided with a main CPU 201a, ROM 201b, RAM 201c, and interface circuit (I / F circuit) 201d, which are connected to each other via a bus 201e.

  The main CPU 201a reads (fetches), interprets (decodes), and executes instructions constituting the program. And main CPU201a reads the program, data, etc. which are memorize | stored in ROM201b, and controls the whole pachinko machine 100 based on these.

  The ROM 201b stores programs and data necessary for the main CPU 201a to perform processing shown in FIGS. 5 to 10 and FIG. The RAM 201c is used as a work area when the main CPU 201a performs various controls and temporarily stores data and the like.

  The I / F circuit 201d transmits and receives signals performed between the main control board 201, the sub control board 202, the winning hole board 203, the LED drive board 204, the launch control board 205, and the payout control board 206. Control the timing. However, between the main control board 201 and the sub control board 202, transmission of signals from the main control board 201 to the sub control board 202 is performed, but transmission of signals from the sub control board 202 to the main control board 201 is not performed. Not done. That is, only one-way transmission is possible.

  In addition, the I / F circuit 201 d is supplied with predetermined power from the power supply device 209 disposed inside the housing of the pachinko machine 100 via the power receiving board 207. With this power, the main control board 201 can perform various processes described later.

(Sub control board 202)
The sub control board 202 is provided with a sub CPU 202a, ROM 202b, RAM 202c, image control processor 202d, image data ROM 202e, video RAM 202f, tone generator circuit 202g, amplifier 202h, and interface circuit (I / F circuit) 202i. The sub CPU 202a, ROM 202b, RAM 202c, image control processor 202d, tone generator circuit 202g, and I / F circuit 202i are connected to each other via a bus 202j. The image data ROM 202e and the video RAM 202f are connected to the image control processor 202d, and the amplifier 202h is connected to the sound source circuit 202g. Furthermore, an electrical decoration board 208 is connected to the I / F circuit 202i.

  The sub CPU 202a reads (fetches), interprets (decodes), and executes instructions constituting the program. Then, the sub CPU 202a reads a program, data, and the like stored in the ROM 202b, and controls the entire sub control board 202, in particular, controls the effects for the player.

  The ROM 202b stores programs and data necessary for the sub CPU 202a to execute processing shown in FIG. 10 to be described later and other effects during the game. The RAM 202c is used as a work area when the sub CPU 202a performs various controls, and temporarily stores data and the like.

  The ROM 202b and the RAM 202c may be the same as the ROM 201b and the RAM 201c provided on the main control board 201, respectively, but it is preferable to use one having a larger capacity than these.

  The effect display device 107 includes a liquid crystal display device, and is connected to an image control processor 202d having a normal three-dimensional graphics function. The image data ROM 202e stores image data such as characters, characters, and backgrounds displayed on the effect display device 107, and polygon data of various three-dimensional objects such as symbol display objects used when displaying decorative symbols in a variable manner. Has been.

  The video RAM 202f is a memory used when the image control processor 202d creates an image to be displayed on the effect display device 107. The image data read from the image data ROM 202e is expanded in the video RAM 202f, and an image based on the expanded image data is displayed on the effect display device 107. Needless to say, instead of the liquid crystal display device 118, for example, the effect display device 107 may be configured using a plasma display or the like.

  The sound source circuit 202g is for generating an audio signal corresponding to the game effect, and is connected to the amplifier 202h. The sound based on the sound signal generated by the sound source circuit 202g is amplified by the amplifier 202h and output from the speaker 133.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, in addition to the effect display device 107 and the speaker 133, an electrical decoration component 130 that is turned on or off according to the state of the game is provided as the effect peripheral device. For example, as the illumination component 130, an illumination component (LED) that is lit when a reach state is formed, an illumination component (LED) that is lit during execution of a special game, and an illumination component that is lit during a prize ball ( LED).

  These effect peripheral devices are peripheral devices that are not directly related to the game, and output the effects during the game, and are controlled only by the sub-control board 202 and not by the main control board 201. .

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

  As described above, signals are transmitted from the main control board 201 to the sub control board 202, but signals are not transmitted from the sub control board 202 to the main control board 201. Further, the I / F circuit 202 i is supplied with predetermined power from the power supply device 209 disposed inside the housing of the pachinko machine 100 via the power receiving board 207. With this electric power, the sub-control board 202 can perform various processes described later.

(Electric board 208)
The above-mentioned electrical decoration part 130 is connected to the electrical decoration board 208, and the electric power supplied from the power supply device 209 arranged inside the housing of the pachinko machine 100 is output to the electrical decoration part. Thereby, the electrical decoration component 130 performs lighting or light extinction.

(Prize opening board 203)
On the winning opening board 203, a start winning opening switch 210 for detecting the winning of the game ball to the starting winning opening 112, a normal symbol operating gate switch 211 for detecting the passing of the gaming ball to the normal symbol operating gate 114, A general winning opening switch 212 that detects a winning of a game ball to the winning opening 111, a large winning opening switch 213 that detects a winning of a gaming ball to the big winning opening 113, and a specification formed in the large winning opening 113 A specific area detection switch 214 that detects passage of a game ball to the area 121 is connected.

  Based on the signals transmitted from the start winning port switch 210, the normal symbol operating gate switch 211, the general winning port switch 212, the large winning port switch 213, and the specific area detecting switch 214, the winning port board 203 It identifies which region has passed and transmits a game ball passing signal indicating the identified result to the main control board 201.

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

  The prize opening board 203 outputs a current for driving the ordinary electric combination 104 to the ordinary electric combination solenoid 215 when an ordinary electric combination release instruction signal is input from the main control board 201 as will be described later. As a result, the ordinary electric accessory 104 performs an opening / closing operation.

  In addition, when the prize winning hole opening instruction signal is input from the main control board 201, the prize winning hole board 203 outputs a current for driving the big prize winning hole door 120 to the big prize winning hole solenoid 216. As a result, the special winning opening 113 is opened. On the other hand, when a special winning opening closing instruction signal is input from the main control board 201, the output of the current for driving the special winning opening door 120 is stopped. Thereby, the special winning opening 113 is closed.

  Furthermore, when the game ball passes through the specific area, it is determined that the special game will be transferred to the next unit game, and when the specific area control instruction signal is input from the main control board 201, the winning opening board 203 is A current for releasing the state where the passing of the game ball to 121 is facilitated is output to the specific area solenoid 217. As described above, in this embodiment, a maximum of 15 unit games are continued in one special game.

(LED drive board 204)
A special symbol display device 106 and a normal symbol display device 108 are connected to the LED drive board 204. When a special symbol display instruction signal is input from the main control board 201 as described later, the LED drive board 204 receives the 7-segment LED 116 disposed in the special symbol display device 106 based on the special symbol display instruction signal, The four LEDs 117 that display the number of winnings are made to emit light. In addition, when the normal symbol display instruction signal is input from the main control board 201, the LED drive board 204, based on the normal symbol display instruction signal, the 7-segment LED 122 disposed in the normal symbol display device 108, and the gate passage The four LEDs 123 for displaying the numbers are caused to emit light.

(Launch control board 205)
The launch control board 205 is connected to a launch handle 131 for launching a game ball into the game area 115. The launch control board 205 detects that the launch handle 131 has been operated by the player, and transmits a launch operation detection signal indicating the detected result to the main control board 201. As a result, the main control board 201 recognizes that the firing handle 131 has been operated.

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

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

(Discharge control board 206)
When the payout control board 206 receives a prize ball number signal transmitted from the main control board 201 as will be described later, the number of prize balls (game balls) corresponding to the prize ball number signal is paid out to the ball tray 128a. Thus, the dispensing device 218 disposed inside the pachinko machine 100 is controlled. Thereby, the payout device 218 pays out a winning ball (game ball) corresponding to the winning.

  The winning a prize board 203, the LED drive board 204, the launch control board 205, and the payout control board 206 operate based on the power supplied from the power supply device 209 via the power receiving board 207.

(Power receiving board 207)
When the power switch 219 disposed inside the pachinko machine 100 is turned on, the power receiving board 207 is supplied with power from the power supply device 209, and the power is supplied to the main control board 201 and the sub-control as described above. This is distributed to the board 202, the winning hole board 203, the LED driving board 204, the launch control board 205, the payout control board 206, and the decoration board 208.

  Next, a functional configuration of the main control board 201 will be described. FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the main control board 201.

(Winning determination unit 301)
The winning determination unit 301 determines which region the game ball has passed based on the game ball passing signal transmitted from the winning hole board 203. Specifically, based on the game ball passing signal, the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball is a start winning port 112, a normal symbol operating gate 103, a general winning port 111, a large winning port 113, and a specific area 121. Which of the above has been passed is determined.

  The winning determination unit 301 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Payout instruction unit 303)
The payout instructing unit 303 transmits the award ball number signal indicating the number of winning balls to the payout control board 206 based on the result determined by the winning determination unit 301. Specifically, in this embodiment, when the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball has passed through the start winning port 112 (that the game ball has won the start winning port 112), the payout instructing unit 303 receives the award. The prize ball number signal indicating that the number of balls is “4” is transmitted to the payout control board 206.

  When the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball has passed through the general winning opening 111, the payout instructing unit 303 sends the winning ball number signal indicating that the number of winning balls is “4” to the payout control board 206. Send. Further, when the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball has passed through the big winning opening 113, the payout instructing unit 303 sends the award ball number signal indicating that the award ball number is “15” to the payout control board 206. Send.

  Thereby, the payout control board 206 controls the payout device 218 so that payout according to the number of prize balls indicated in the prize ball number signal is made.

  The payout instruction unit 303 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Special symbol lottery section 304)
The special symbol lottery unit 304 generates and acquires a random number ranging from “0” to “65535”, for example, when the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball has won the start winning opening 112. For example, if no random number is stored in the special symbol random number storage area in the RAM 202 c, the acquired random number is output to the winning determination unit 305.

  On the other hand, when a random number is stored in the special symbol random number storage area, the acquired random number is stored in the special symbol random number storage area. In this embodiment, up to four random numbers acquired by the special symbol lottery unit 304 can be stored in the special symbol random number storage area, and the random number storage order can be identified. Then, the special symbol lottery unit 304 outputs the random number stored earliest in the special symbol random number storage area to the winning determination unit 305 and deletes the output random number from the special symbol random number storage region.

  The special symbol lottery unit 304 is realized by using a main CPU 201a, a ROM 201b, and a RAM 202c provided on the main control board 201.

(Winning determination unit 305)
The winning determination unit 305 determines whether the random number output from the special symbol lottery unit 304 corresponds to “big hit” or “lost” based on the random number value output by the special symbol lottery unit 304. Further, when the “big hit” is true, it is determined whether the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode” or the “short time mode” after the “big hit”. These determinations are made using, for example, a lottery table.

  Then, if it corresponds to “big hit”, the bonus flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on. Further, when the “accuracy change mode” is applicable, the probability change flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on. On the other hand, in the case of “time reduction mode”, the time reduction flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on.

  In the present embodiment, a lottery table that is different between the case where the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode” and the other cases (the case where the mode is shifted to the “short-time mode” and the normal game is played) is used. It is determined whether it corresponds to the above-mentioned “big hit” or “losing”.

  More specifically, in the present embodiment, the probability variation lottery table used when shifting to the “probability change mode”, the case of shifting to the “time reduction mode”, and the case of performing a normal game There are two lottery tables, the normal lottery table to be used.

  And, in the case of shifting to the “probability mode”, the probability of being a “big hit” is higher than the case of shifting to the “short-time mode” and the case of performing a normal game. The contents of the two lottery tables are set.

  The winning determination unit 305 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Special symbol display instruction unit 306)
The special symbol display instruction unit 306 determines the special symbol variation display time in the special symbol display device 106 based on the state of the flag stored in the flag storage unit 302, and determines the result determined by the winning determination unit 305. Based on this, the special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106 is determined.

  In the present embodiment, the case where the probability variation flag or the time reduction flag is turned on (in the case of shifting to the “probability variation mode” or the “time reduction mode”) is more than that in the case where the probability variation flag or the time reduction flag is turned on The special symbol fluctuation display time is made much shorter than when playing “play”.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when it corresponds to “big hit” and shifts to “probability change mode”, “7” is determined as a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106. On the other hand, when it corresponds to “big hit” and shifts to “time reduction mode”, “3” is determined as a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106. Further, in the case of “losing”, “−” is determined as a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106.

  The special symbol display instruction unit 306 forms a display pattern based on the stop symbol determined in this way, the special symbol variation display time, and the like, and the special symbol display instruction signal indicating the display pattern is displayed on the LED drive base. 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 116 of the special symbol display device 106 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated in the special symbol display instruction signal.

  In this embodiment, in order to give the player a sense of being able to acquire a reach state or a “big hit” according to his / her input operation, in other words, the first to third symbol displays. Synchronize with the end timing of the special symbol fluctuation table time so that the “big hit” and “losing” will not be announced in advance by the special symbol stop display before the object stops and the decorative symbol stop symbol is confirmed. The third symbol display object is stopped and the final decoration symbol combination is stopped and displayed.

  The special symbol display instruction unit 306 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Big prize opening opening instruction unit 307)
When the winning determination unit 305 determines that the lottery result by the special symbol lottery unit 304 corresponds to “big hit” by the winning determination unit 307 and the bonus flag in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on, The special winning opening release instruction signal is transmitted to the substrate 203. As a result, the special winning opening 113 is opened. After that, when it is determined that the game ball has passed the specific area 121 formed in the big prize opening 113 based on the result of the determination in the winning determination section 301, the special prize opening release instruction section 307 performs the specific area control. An instruction signal is transmitted to the winning opening board 203. As a result, the state in which the game ball can easily pass to the specific area 121 is released.

  Thereafter, for example, when it is determined that ten game balls have passed through the prize winning opening 113, or when it has been determined that 29.5 seconds have elapsed since the prize winning opening 113 was opened, the prize winning opening releasing instruction unit 307 Then, a large winning opening closing signal is transmitted to the winning opening board 203. Thereby, the special winning opening 113 is closed.

  When the big prize opening 113 is closed as described above, the big prize opening opening instructing unit 307 facilitates the passage of the game ball to the specific area 121 while the big prize opening 113 is being opened. It is determined whether or not the state has been released. As a result of this determination, when the state in which the passing of the game ball to the specific area 121 is released, the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 determines whether or not the special winning opening 113 is opened 15 times. . That is, it is determined whether or not 15 unit games have been consumed.

  As a result of these determinations, when the state in which the passing of the game ball to the specific area 121 is facilitated and all the unit games in the special game have not been digested, the special winning opening release instructing unit 307 The prize winning opening instruction signal is transmitted to the prize winning board 203 to shift to the next unit game, and the operation for opening and closing the prize winning opening 113 as described above is repeated until all the unit games are consumed. Do.

  On the other hand, when all the rounds of the special game have been completed, the special game has ended, and the special winning opening 113 is not opened. Further, when the game ball does not pass through the specific area 121 while the special winning opening 113 is opened, it is a so-called “punk” state, and whether or not all unit games in the special game have been consumed. Regardless, the special game is forcibly terminated. Accordingly, in this case as well, the special winning opening 113 is not opened.

  The special winning opening opening instruction unit 307 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Normal symbol lottery section 309)
When the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball has passed the normal symbol operation gate 103, the normal symbol lottery unit 309 generates and acquires a random number within a predetermined range. Then, when the normal symbol is not being displayed in the normal symbol display device 108 (that is, when it is not necessary to hold the normal symbol lottery result), the acquired random number is output to the winning determination unit 310. .

  On the other hand, if the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area is three or less and the normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner on the normal symbol display device 108, the obtained random number Are stored in the normal symbol random number storage area. As described above, in the present embodiment, up to four random numbers acquired by the normal symbol lottery unit 309 can be stored in the normal symbol random number storage area, and the random number storage order can be identified. . Then, the normal symbol lottery unit 304 outputs the random number stored earliest in the normal symbol random number storage area to the winning determination unit 310 and deletes the output random number from the normal symbol random number storage region.

  The normal symbol lottery unit 309 is realized by using the main CPU 201a, the ROM 201b, and the RAM 201c provided on the main control board 201.

(Winning determination unit 310)
The winning determination unit 310 determines whether the random number output from the normal symbol lottery unit 309 corresponds to “win” or “losing” based on the random number value output from the normal symbol lottery unit 309. This determination is performed using, for example, a lottery table.

  In the present embodiment, using the lottery table that is different between the case of shifting to the “probability change mode” or the “time reduction mode” and the case of performing a normal game, either “winning” or “losing” described above is used. Judgment is made as to whether this is the case.

  Specifically, in the present embodiment, a special mode lottery table used when shifting to the “probability change mode” or the “short time mode” and a normal lottery table used when a normal game is being performed. There are two lottery tables.

  The two lottery tables are set so that the probability of “winning” is significantly higher in the case of shifting to “probability mode” or “short-time mode” than in the case of playing a normal game. Is set. As a result, the probability of winning a normal symbol when the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode” or the “time reduction mode” is increased. Therefore, when the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode” or the “time reduction mode”, the normal electric accessory 104 is released more frequently than when the normal game is played, and the ball is held as much as possible. The game can be progressed without being reduced.

  The winning determination unit 310 is realized by using the main CPU 201a, the ROM 201b, and the RAM 201c provided on the main control board 201.

(Normal symbol display instruction unit 311)
The normal symbol display instructing unit 311 determines the normal symbol variation display time based on the state of the flag stored in the flag storage unit 302, and the normal symbol based on the lottery result determined by the winning determination unit 310. A normal symbol to be stopped and displayed on the display device 108 is determined. Then, a display pattern based on the determined stop symbol and the normal symbol variation display time is formed, and the normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is transmitted to the LED drive board 204.

  For example, in the present embodiment, the case where the probability change flag or the time reduction flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on (the case where the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode” or the “time reduction mode”). The normal symbol variation display time is made much shorter than when they are not turned on (than when the normal game is played).

  If the result of the determination by the winning determination unit 310 is “winning”, for example, “7” is determined as a normal symbol to be stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 108. On the other hand, in the case of “losing”, for example, “−” is determined as a normal symbol to be stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 108.

  Then, the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 forms a display pattern based on the stop symbol determined in this way, the normal symbol variation display time, and the like, and sends the normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern to the LED drive board. 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated by the normal symbol display instruction signal.

  The normal symbol display instruction unit 311 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Normal electric accessory driving instruction unit 312)
Based on the state of the flag stored in the flag storage unit 302, the lottery result determined by the winning determination unit 310, etc., the normal electric combination driving instruction unit 312 determines the operation mode of the normal electric combination 104, A normal electric accessory release instruction signal indicating the determined operation mode is transmitted.

  For example, in the present embodiment, the case where the probability change flag or the time reduction flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on (the case where the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode” or “time reduction mode”). The operation mode (for example, the opening time) of the ordinary electric accessory 104 so that the game ball can easily win the start winning opening 112 rather than the case where they are not turned on (than when the normal game is performed). To be determined.

  Then, the ordinary electric accessory drive instructing unit 312 transmits the ordinary electric accessory release signal indicating the operation mode determined in this way to the prize opening board 203. Thereby, the ordinary electric accessory 104 operates in the operation mode indicated by the ordinary electric accessory release signal.

  Note that the normal electric accessory driving instruction unit 312 is realized by using the main CPU 201 a and the ROM 201 b provided on the main control board 201.

(Direction command generator 313)
The effect command generation unit 313 is the result of the determination by the winning determination unit 301, the result of determination by the winning determination unit 305 (special symbol lottery result), the state of the flag stored in the flag storage unit 302, and the special symbol display. Based on the special symbol variation display time determined by the instruction unit 306, an effect command corresponding to the current game state is generated and transmitted to the sub-control board 202.

  The production command generation unit 313 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

  Next, a functional configuration of the sub control board 202 will be described. FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the sub control board 202.

(Direction command analysis unit 701)
The effect command analysis unit 701 analyzes the effect command transmitted from the main control board 201 (effect command generation unit 313). For example, when an effect command indicating a symbol display object variation display is input from the main control board 201, information such as a special symbol lottery result, a special symbol variation display time, a probability variation flag, or a time reduction flag is transmitted to the effect control unit 707. Output.

  In addition, the process which the production | presentation command analysis part 701 performs is not limited to these, The process according to the content of the production | presentation command is performed suitably.

  The effect command analysis unit 701 is realized by using the sub CPU 202a, the ROM 202b, and the RAM 202c provided on the sub control board 202.

(Production control unit 707)
The effect control unit 707 executes, for example, a process (design display object variation display process) of performing a variation display of a decorative symbol using a symbol display object based on the information output from the effect command analysis unit 701.

  In order to execute the symbol display object variation display process, the effect control unit 707 determines the stop symbol determination function 501 that determines the stop symbol of the decorative symbol so as to match the lottery result of the special symbol, and the determined stop symbol and special symbol. The effect pattern selection function 502 for selecting the effect pattern so as to match the lottery result, and the necessary information to output the first to third symbol display objects in the decorative symbol display area is output to the image generation unit 705 or the like. A symbol display object display instruction function 503, a virtual camera control function 504 for controlling the position and line-of-sight direction of the virtual camera, and the like are provided. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating the above main functions as function means.

  Note that the process performed by the effect control unit 707 is not limited to the symbol display object variation display process, and a process corresponding to the output content from the effect command analysis unit 701 is appropriately executed.

  The effect control unit 707 is realized by using the sub CPU 202a, the ROM 202b, and the RAM 202c provided on the sub control board 202.

(Image generation unit 705)
The image generation unit 705 generates image data based on information output from the effect command analysis unit 701, the effect control unit 707, and the like, and outputs the image data to the effect display device 107.

  For example, if information indicating that the game ball has passed through the specific area 121 formed in the special winning opening 113 is output from the effect command analysis unit 701, the player is notified of this fact. Generate image data.

  Further, for example, based on the information output from the effect control unit 707, image data for displaying the symbol display object in the decorative symbol display area is generated. At this time, image data is generated on the symbol display object so that the decorative symbol is variably displayed / stopped according to the effect pattern selected by the effect control unit 707.

  Needless to say, the image data generated by the image generation unit 705 is not limited to these. For example, when executing a reach effect or the like, image data corresponding to the content is generated.

The image generation unit 705 is realized by using an image control processor 202d, an image data ROM 202e, and a video RAM 202f provided on the sub control board 202.
(Voice generation unit 706)
The sound generation unit 706 generates sound data based on information output from the effect command analysis unit 701, the effect control unit 707, and the like, and outputs the sound data to the speaker 133. For example, when a lottery result of a special symbol is output from the effect control unit 707, a sound corresponding to the lottery result is emitted according to the effect pattern 704 determined by the effect control unit 707. Audio data is generated and output to the speaker 133.

  Needless to say, the audio data generated by the audio generation unit 706 is not limited to these.

  The sound generation unit 706 is realized by using the sub CPU 202a, the ROM 202b, the RAM 202c, and the sound source circuit 202g provided on the sub control board 202.

  The main control board 201 and the sub control board 202 may be provided with functions other than those described above.

  Next, an example of a processing operation in the pachinko machine 100 according to the present embodiment configured as described above will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Processing of main control board 201)
FIG. 5 is a main flowchart showing an example of processing operation in the main control board 201.

  In step S1 of FIG. 5, when the power switch 219 is turned on, the main control board 201 performs a game ball launch process. A specific example of this game ball launching process will be described. First, after the launch operation detection signal indicating that the launch handle 131 has been operated by the player is transmitted from the launch control board 205, the main control board 201, It is determined whether or not a certain amount of game balls are stored in the ball tray 128a.

  If the result of this determination is that a certain amount or more of game balls are not stored in the ball tray 128a, the main control board 201 transmits a launch permission signal to the launch control board 205 and the game balls are directed to the game area 115. A command indicating that it has been fired is generated and transmitted to the sub-control board 202. Thereby, a game ball is launched into the game area 115 and an effect during the game is started.

  On the other hand, when a certain amount or more of game balls are stored in the ball tray 128a, the main control board 201 transmits a launch non-permission signal to the launch control board 205, and the game balls cannot be launched into the game area 115. A command indicating this is generated and transmitted to the sub-control board 202. In this case, even if the player operates the launch handle 131, the game ball is not fired toward the game area 115. In addition, the player is notified by turning on the illumination part 130 that a certain amount or more of the game balls are stored in the ball tray 128a.

  Next, in step S2, the main control board 201 performs a general winning process. This general winning process is a process performed when a game ball launched into the game area 115 wins the general winning opening 111. Details of the general winning process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, in step S3, the main control board 201 performs normal symbol operation gate passage processing. This normal symbol operation gate passing process is a process performed when a game ball launched into the game area 115 passes through the normal symbol operation gate. The normal symbol operation gate passing process will be described later with reference to FIGS.

  Next, in step S4, the main control board 201 performs a start winning process. This start winning process is a process that is performed based on a winning of a game ball launched into the game area 115 to the start winning port 112. Details of the start winning process will be described later with reference to FIGS.

  Next, in step S5, the main control board 201 performs a special game execution process. In the special game execution process, as a result of the determination of “big hit” by the winning determination unit 305, the special symbol display device 106 and the effect display device 107 display predetermined symbols and effects and become “hit”, and the process shifts to the special game. This is the process that is performed. Details of the special game execution process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  As described above, the main control board 201 repeatedly performs the game ball firing process, the general winning process, the normal symbol operation gate passing process, the starting winning process, and the special game executing process, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 9 below. Thus, in the present embodiment, each process is repeatedly executed while omitting unnecessary processes according to the state of the game.

(General winning process)
Next, the details of the general winning process in step S2 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In addition, each process (including the partial process to which the code | symbol is not provided) can be arbitrarily changed in order within the range which does not produce contradiction in the processing content, or can be performed in parallel (this point is other The same applies to the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S <b> 11 of FIG. 6, the winning determination unit 301 determines whether or not the gaming ball has won the general winning opening 111 based on the gaming ball passage signal transmitted from the winning opening board 203. If the result of this determination is that the game ball has won the general winning opening 111, the process proceeds to step S12, where the payout instruction unit 303 pays out the award ball number signal indicating that the number of winning balls is “4”. Transmit to the substrate 206. As a result, four prize balls are paid out to the ball tray 128a. In addition, the effect command generation unit 313 generates an effect command indicating that the general winning opening 111 has been won and transmits the effect command to the sub control board 202. Thereby, the sub-control board 202 informs the player that the general winning opening 111 has been won by, for example, lighting the electric decoration part 130. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, when the game ball has not won the general winning opening 111, it is not necessary to perform the process of step S12, and the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

(Normal symbol operation gate passing processing)
Next, details of the normal symbol operation gate passing process in step S3 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 7-1 and 7-2.

  In step S <b> 21 of FIG. 7A, the winning determination unit 301 determines whether or not the gaming ball has passed the normal symbol operation gate 103 based on the gaming ball passage signal transmitted from the winning opening board 203. If the result of this determination is that the game ball has passed through the normal symbol operation gate 103, the routine proceeds to step S22, where the normal symbol lottery unit 309 generates a random number and performs lottery (that is, obtains a random number).

  Next, in step S23, the normal symbol lottery unit 309 determines whether or not the normal symbol is being variably displayed. If the result of this determination is that the normal symbol is variably displayed, the process proceeds to step S24, where the normal symbol lottery unit 309 counts the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area provided in the RAM 201c. It is determined whether or not there are three or less. As a result of this determination, if the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area is three or less, the process proceeds to step S25, where the normal symbol lottery unit 309 determines the normal symbol lottery result (step S22). 5) is stored in the normal symbol random number storage area, and the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  If it is determined in step S24 that the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area exceeds three, the random number acquired in step S22 may be suspended. Since normal symbols cannot be displayed based on, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S23 that the normal symbol is not being variably displayed, the process proceeds to step S26, and the normal symbol lottery unit 309 determines whether or not a random number is stored in the normal symbol random number storage area. Determine. As a result of this determination, if random numbers are stored, the process proceeds to step S27, and the normal symbol lottery unit 309 determines whether the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area is three or less. Determine whether.

  As a result of this determination, if the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area is three or less, the process proceeds to step S28, where the normal symbol lottery unit 309 determines the normal symbol lottery result (step S22). Is stored in the normal symbol random number storage area.

  Next, in step S29, the normal symbol lottery unit 309 reads the random number stored earliest in the normal symbol random number storage area, and proceeds to step S30.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S26 that no random number is stored, steps S27 to S29 are omitted and the process proceeds to step S30.

  If it is determined in step S27 that the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area exceeds three, the random number acquired in step S22 may be suspended. Since normal symbols cannot be displayed based on, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  When the normal symbol lottery result (random number) is obtained as described above, the process proceeds to step S30, and the normal symbol lottery unit 309 outputs the obtained random number to the winning determination unit 310.

  Next, in step S31, the winning determination unit 310 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to determine whether or not the time reduction flag or the probability variation flag is turned on. As a result of this determination, if the time reduction flag or the probability change flag is turned on, it is determined that the mode is shifting to the “time reduction mode” or “probability change mode”, and the process proceeds to step S32, where the winning determination unit 310 The special mode lottery table used in the case of the “short time mode” or “probability change mode” is read.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that neither the time-saving flag nor the probability variation flag is turned on, it is determined that the game is in the normal game, and the process proceeds to step S33. The winning determination unit 310 is used when the game is in the normal game. The normal lottery table to be extracted is extracted.

  As described above, when the lottery table is selected in step S33, the process proceeds to step S34 in FIG. 7-2, and the winning determination unit 310 receives the lottery result (random number) output from the normal symbol lottery unit 309 in step S30. It is determined whether or not the selected lottery table corresponds to “winning”. That is, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won.

  As a result of this determination, if the normal symbol lottery is won, the process proceeds to step S35, and the normal symbol display instructing unit 311 and the ordinary electric accessory driving instructing unit 312 refer to the flag storage unit 302, and It is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is turned on. That is, it is determined whether or not a transition is made to either the “time reduction mode” or the “probability change mode”. As a result of this determination, if the time reduction flag or the probability change flag is turned on and the mode is shifted to the “time reduction mode” or “probability change mode”, the process proceeds to step S36.

  In step S 36, when the transition to the “short time mode” is in progress, the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 displays the normal symbols in a variable manner during the default normal symbol fluctuation display time in the “short time mode”. A display pattern for stopping and displaying “7” indicating “win” is formed, and the normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated by the normal symbol display instruction signal.

  On the other hand, when transitioning to the “probability change mode”, the normal symbol display instructing unit 311 displays the normal symbols in a variable manner during the default normal symbol change display time in the “probability change mode”, and then “wins”. A display pattern for stopping and displaying “7” indicating that the normal symbol is displayed, and the normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated by the normal symbol display instruction signal.

  Next, in step S <b> 37, the ordinary electric accessory driving instruction unit 312 transmits the ordinary electric accessory release signal indicating the default operation mode in the “time reduction mode” or the “probability change mode” to the winning opening board 203. Thereby, the ordinary electric accessory 104 operates in the operation mode indicated by the ordinary electric accessory release signal. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG. The normal electric accessory release signal is transmitted after the normal symbol is stopped and displayed on the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S35 that neither the time reduction flag nor the probability variation flag is on, the normal game is in progress, so the process proceeds to step S38, and the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 displays the default during normal game. During the normal symbol variation display time, after the normal symbol is variably displayed, a display pattern is formed such that “7” indicating “winning” is stopped and displayed, and the normal symbol indicating the formed display pattern is formed. A display instruction signal is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated by the normal symbol display instruction signal.

  Next, in step S <b> 39, the ordinary electric accessory driving instruction unit 312 transmits the ordinary electric accessory release signal indicating the default operation mode during the normal game to the prize opening board 203. Thereby, the ordinary electric accessory 104 operates in the operation mode indicated by the ordinary electric accessory release signal. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG. The normal electric accessory release signal is transmitted after the normal symbol is stopped and displayed on the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108.

  If it is determined in step S34 that the normal symbol lottery has not been won, the process proceeds to step S40, and the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to set the time reduction flag or the probability variation flag. Determine whether it is turned on. As a result of these determinations, if the time reduction flag or the probability change flag is turned on and the mode is shifted to the “time reduction mode” or “probability change mode”, the process proceeds to step S41, and the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 During the default normal symbol fluctuation display time in “mode” or “probability change mode”, after the normal symbol is variably displayed, a display pattern is formed so that “−” indicating “losing” is stopped and displayed. The normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated by the normal symbol display instruction signal. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  If it is determined in step S40 that neither the time reduction flag nor the probability variation flag is on, the normal game is in progress, so the process proceeds to step S42, and the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 displays the default normal in normal game. After the normal symbol is variably displayed during the symbol variation display time, a display pattern is formed so that “-” indicating “losing” is stopped, and the normal symbol display instruction indicating the formed display pattern is formed. A signal is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 122 of the normal symbol display device 108 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated by the normal symbol display instruction signal. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  When it is determined in step S21 of FIG. 7-1 that the game ball has not passed through the normal symbol operation gate 103, the process proceeds to step S43, and the normal symbol lottery unit 309 is provided in the RAM 201c. It is determined whether or not random numbers are stored in the normal symbol random number storage area. If a random number is stored as a result of this determination, the process proceeds to step S29 described above. On the other hand, when the random number is not stored, it is not necessary to perform the processing after step S22, and the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

(Start-up winning process)
Next, details of the start winning process in step S4 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

  In step S <b> 61 of FIG. 8A, the winning determination unit 301 determines whether or not the game ball has passed through the start winning port 112 based on the game ball passing signal transmitted from the winning port substrate 203. If the result of this determination is that the game ball has passed through the start winning opening 112, the process proceeds to step S62, where the special symbol lottery unit 304 generates a random number and performs lottery (that is, obtains a random number).

  Next, in step S63, the special symbol lottery unit 304 refers to the flag storage unit 302 and determines whether or not the bonus flag is turned on. If the result of this determination is that the bonus flag has been turned off, the process proceeds to step S64, and the special symbol lottery section 304 determines whether or not the special symbol is being variably displayed. If the result of this determination is that the special symbol is variably displayed, the process proceeds to step S65, where the special symbol lottery section 304 counts the number of random numbers stored in the special symbol random number storage area provided in the RAM 201c. It is determined whether or not there are three or less.

  As a result of this determination, if the number of random numbers stored in the special symbol random number storage area is three or less, the process proceeds to step S66, where the special symbol lottery unit 304 determines the special symbol lottery result (step S62). Is stored in the special symbol random number storage area.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S63 that the bonus flag is not turned off (turned on), the special game is being executed, and the process proceeds to step S65.

  If it is determined in step S65 that the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area exceeds three, the random number acquired in step S62 may be suspended. Since normal symbols cannot be displayed based on, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S64 that the special symbol is not being variably displayed, the process proceeds to step S67, where the special symbol lottery unit 304 determines whether or not a random number is stored in the special symbol random number storage area. Determine. If the result of this determination is that random numbers are stored, the process proceeds to step S68, where the special symbol lottery unit 304 determines whether the number of random numbers stored in the special symbol random number storage area is three or less. Determine whether.

  As a result of the determination, if the number of random numbers stored in the special symbol random number storage area is three or less, the process proceeds to step S69, where the special symbol lottery unit 304 determines the special symbol lottery result (step S62). Is stored in the special symbol random number storage area.

  Next, in step S70, the special symbol lottery unit 304 reads the random number stored earliest in the special symbol random number storage area, and proceeds to step S71.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S67 that no random number is stored, steps S68 to S70 are omitted, and the process proceeds to step S71.

  If it is determined in step S68 that the number of random numbers stored in the special symbol random number storage area exceeds three, the random number acquired in step S62 may be suspended. Since the special symbol based on cannot be displayed, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  When the special symbol lottery result (random number) is obtained as described above, the process proceeds to step S71, and the special symbol lottery unit 304 outputs the obtained random number to the winning determination unit 305.

  Next, in step S72, the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to determine whether or not the probability variation flag is turned on. If the result of this determination is that the probability variation flag is on, it is determined that the mode has been shifted to the “probability variation mode”, and the process proceeds to step S73. The winning determination unit 305 is used when the probability variation mode is in effect. The lottery table for probability variation to be extracted is extracted.

  On the other hand, if the probability variation flag is not turned on, the process proceeds to step S74, and the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to determine whether or not the time reduction flag is turned on. As a result of this determination, if the time reduction flag is turned on, it is determined that the mode is shifted to the “time reduction mode”, the process proceeds to step S75, and the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302. Add 1 to the number of time reductions. That is, the number of games in which the current game falls in the “short time mode” is counted.

  Next, in step S76, the winning determination unit 305 extracts a normal lottery table to be used in the “time reduction mode”.

  Next, in step S77, the winning determination unit 305 determines whether or not the “time saving mode” has ended by digesting the prescribed number of games. If the result of this determination is that the prescribed number of games has been exhausted and the “time reduction mode” has ended, the process proceeds to step S78, and the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 and turns off the time reduction flag.

  If it is determined in step S77 that the prescribed number of games has not been exhausted, the “time reduction mode” is ongoing, so the processing in step S78 is omitted.

  If it is determined in step S74 that the time reduction flag is not turned on, the game is in a normal game, so the process proceeds to step S79, and the winning determination unit 305 selects a normal lottery table to be used during the normal game. Extract.

  As described above, when the lottery table is extracted in steps S73, S76, and S79, the process proceeds to step S80 in FIG. 8-2, and the winning determination unit 305 outputs the lottery result output from the special symbol lottery unit 304 in step S71 ( It is determined whether or not (random number) corresponds to “big hit” in the extracted lottery table. That is, it is determined whether or not a special symbol lottery is won.

  As a result of this determination, if the special symbol lottery is won, the process proceeds to step S81, and the winning determination unit 305 further determines whether to shift to the “probability change mode” or the “short time mode” after the special game. Referring to the flag storage unit 302, the bonus flag is turned on and the process proceeds to step S82. On the other hand, if the special symbol lottery is not won, the process of step S81 is omitted and the process proceeds to step S82.

  In step S82, the special symbol display instruction unit 306 refers to the flag storage unit 302 and determines whether or not the time reduction flag or the probability variation flag is turned on. As a result of this determination, if the time reduction flag or the probability variation flag is turned on, since either the “time reduction mode” or the “probability variation mode” is being executed, the process proceeds to step S83. The special symbol display instructing unit 306 forms a display pattern for the time reduction / probability change mode based on the determination result in steps S80 and S82, and sends the special symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern to the LED drive board 204. Send. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 116 of the special symbol display device 106 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated in the special symbol display instruction signal.

  On the other hand, if the hourly flag or the probability variation flag is not turned on, it means that the game is in the normal game, so that the process proceeds to step S84, and the special symbol display instruction unit 306 is used for the normal game based on the determination result in steps S80 and S82. And the special symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Accordingly, the 7-segment LED 116 of the special symbol display device 106 performs a light emission operation according to the display pattern indicated in the special symbol display instruction signal.

  In step S <b> 85, the payout instructing unit 303 transmits the prize ball number signal indicating that the number of prize balls is “4” to the payout control board 206. As a result, four prize balls are paid out to the ball tray 128a.

  Next, in step S86, the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 and determines whether or not the bonus flag is turned on. If the result of this determination is that the bonus flag is on, the process proceeds to step S87. If the winning determination unit 305 determines in S81 to shift to the “probability change mode”, the process proceeds to step S88, where the flag storage unit Referring to 302, the probability variation flag is turned on.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in S81 that the winning determination unit 305 shifts to the “time reduction mode”, the process proceeds to step S89, and the flag storage unit 302 is referred to and the time reduction flag is turned on.

  In step S90, the effect command generation unit 313 generates an effect command indicating the symbol display object variation display based on the determination results in steps S80 and S82 and the stored content of the flag storage unit 302, and transmits it to the sub-control board 02. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG. The effect command indicating the symbol display object variation display includes information such as a special symbol lottery result, a special symbol variation display time, a probability variation flag, or a time reduction flag as parameters, and the symbol display object is based on these information. Based on the variation display process, the process is executed.

  If it is determined in step S61 of FIG. 8-1 that the game ball has not passed through the start winning opening 112, the process proceeds to step S91, and the special symbol lottery unit 304 is provided in the RAM 201c. It is determined whether or not random numbers are stored in the special symbol random number storage area. If a random number is stored as a result of this determination, the process proceeds to step S70 described above. On the other hand, when the random number is not stored, it is not necessary to perform the processes after step S62, and the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

(Special game execution process)
Next, details of the special game execution process in step S5 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S101 of FIG. 9, the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to determine whether or not the bonus flag is turned on. If the result of this determination is that the bonus flag is not turned on, there is no need to perform the processing after step S102 (since it does not shift to special game), the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  On the other hand, if the bonus flag is on, the process proceeds to step S102. In step S <b> 102, the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 transmits the special winning opening opening instruction signal to the winning opening board 203. As a result, the special winning opening 113 is opened, and one round of the specific game consisting of 15 rounds starts.

  Next, in step S <b> 103, the winning determination unit 301 determines whether or not the game ball has passed through the big winning opening 113 based on the gaming ball passing signal transmitted from the winning opening board 203.

  If the result of this determination is that the game ball has passed through the big winning opening 113, the process proceeds to step S104, where the winning determination section 301 determines that the game ball is based on the gaming ball passing signal transmitted from the winning opening board 203. It is determined whether or not the specific area 121 has been passed. If the result of this determination is that the game ball has passed through the specific area 121, the process proceeds to step S105, where the special winning opening opening instruction unit 307 transmits the specific area control instruction signal to the winning opening board 203 and proceeds to step S106. move on. As a result, the state in which the game ball can easily pass through the specific area 121 is released. On the other hand, if the game ball has not passed through the specific area 121, the process skips step S105 and proceeds to step S106.

  Next, in step S <b> 106, the effect command generation unit 313 generates an effect command indicating that the game ball has passed through the big prize opening 113 or the specific area 121, and transmits it to the sub control board 202. As a result, an image indicating that the game ball has passed the special winning opening 113 or the specific area 121 is displayed on the effect display device 107. Also, the payout instruction unit 303 transmits the prize ball number signal indicating that the prize ball number is “15” to the payout control board 206. Thereby, 15 prize balls are paid out to the ball tray 128a.

  If it is determined in step S106 that the game ball has not won the big prize opening 113, the processing of steps S104 to S106 is omitted and the process proceeds to step S107.

  Next, in step S107, the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 determines whether or not a predetermined time (29.5 seconds) has elapsed since the special winning opening 113 is opened. As a result of the determination, if the predetermined time has elapsed, it is the end of the unit game, so the process proceeds to step S108, and the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 transmits a special winning opening closing signal to the winning opening board 203. To do. As a result, the special winning opening 113 is closed.

  Next, in step S <b> 109, the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 determines whether or not the state where it is easy to pass the game ball to the specific area 121 is released. As a result of this determination, when the state in which the passing of the game ball to the specific area 121 is released, the process proceeds to step S110, where the special winning opening release instructing unit 307 determines that all unit games in the special game (that is, It is determined whether or not (special game) has ended. If the result of this determination is that the special game has ended, the process proceeds to step S111, where the effect command generating unit 313 generates an effect command indicating the end of the special game and transmits it to the sub control board 202. Thereby, an image indicating the end of the special game is displayed on the effect display device 107. Further, the special winning opening opening instruction unit 307 transmits the specific area control instruction signal to the winning opening board 203. As a result, the game ball can easily pass through the specific area 121.

  In step S112, the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302, turns off the bonus flag, and returns to the main flowchart in FIG.

  If it is determined in step S107 that the predetermined time has not elapsed since the special winning opening 113 is opened, the process proceeds to step S113, and the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 is transmitted from the winning determination unit 301. Based on the game ball passage signal, it is determined whether or not 10 or more game balls have passed through the big winning opening 113. If the result of this determination is that there are 10 or more game balls that have passed through the special winning opening 113, it means that the unit game is over, so that the process proceeds to step S108, and the special winning opening 113 is closed.

  On the other hand, when the number of game balls that have passed through the big winning opening 113 is not ten or more, the unit game is ongoing, and the process returns to the main flowchart of FIG.

  If it is determined in step S110 that all unit games in the special game have not ended, the process proceeds to the next unit game, and thus the process proceeds to step S114, where the effect command generation unit 313 An effect command indicating progress to a game is generated and transmitted to the sub control board 202. As a result, an image indicating that the game has progressed to the next unit game is displayed on the effect display device 107. Further, the special winning opening opening instruction unit 307 transmits the specific area control instruction signal to the winning opening board 203 and returns to the main flowchart of FIG. As a result, the game ball can easily pass through the specific area 121.

  Needless to say, processes other than those shown in FIGS. 6 to 9 may be performed. For example, the timing for generating and transmitting an effect command is not limited to that shown in FIGS. 6 to 9, and other effect commands may be generated and transmitted.

(Processing operation of sub-control board 202)
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing operation in the normal game on the sub-control board 202.

  In step S131 of FIG. 10, the effect command analysis unit 701 in the sub control board 202 determines whether or not an effect command has been received from the main control board 201. As a result of the determination, if an effect command is received, the process proceeds to step S132, and the effect command analysis unit 701 analyzes the received effect command.

  As a result of analyzing the effect command, when the received command is an effect command indicating the symbol display object variation display, the effect command analysis unit 701 displays a special symbol lottery result, a special symbol variation display time, a probability variation flag, a time reduction flag, or the like. Is output to the effect control unit 707. As a result, the effect control unit 707 executes symbol display object variation display processing. Details of the symbol display object variation display processing will be described later with reference to FIGS.

  On the other hand, in the case of an effect command other than those described above, the effect command analysis unit 701 instructs the image generation unit 705 to execute an effect for causing the effect display device 107 to display an image corresponding to the analysis result. .

  In addition, the effect command analysis unit 701 instructs the sound generation unit 706 to execute an effect of emitting sound corresponding to the result of analyzing the effect command. Thereby, the sound generation unit 706 generates sound data corresponding to the effect, and emits sound from the speaker 133.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S131 that an effect command has not been received, the effect command analysis unit 701 instructs the image generation unit 705 to perform an effect in standby. As a result, the image generation unit 705 generates image data for executing the standby effect and causes the effect display device 107 to display the image data.

(Design display object variation display processing)
Next, the details of the symbol display object variation display process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  When the effect control unit 707 receives the lottery result of the special symbol from the effect command analysis unit 701, the effect display object variation display process is started.

  First, the production control unit 707 initially arranges the first to third symbol display objects in a substantially one line in the three-dimensional virtual space so that the decorative symbols displayed on each symbol display object can be seen from the virtual camera. The virtual camera position, line-of-sight direction, etc. are initially set (S141).

  Next, the effect control unit 707 determines a combination of stop symbols of the decorative symbols of the first to third symbol display objects so as to match the lottery result of the special symbols output from the effect command analysis unit 701 ( S142). In the present embodiment, when the lottery result output from the effect command analysis unit 701 indicates “big hit” and shifts to the “probability change mode”, “111”, “333” , “555”, “777”, “999”, “AAA”, “CCC”, “EEE” are combined with any one of the stop symbols of the decorative symbols of the first to third symbol display objects. Determine as a combination.

  Further, when the lottery result output from the effect command analysis unit 701 indicates “big hit” and shifts to the “time reduction mode”, “000”, “222”, “444” ”,“ 666 ”,“ 888 ”,“ BBB ”,“ DDD ”, and“ FFF ”are determined as combinations of stop symbols of the decorative symbols of the first to third symbol display objects. To do.

  Furthermore, when the lottery result output from the effect command analysis unit 701 indicates “losing”, combinations of the three decorative symbols that are not the same in the three decorative symbols are displayed in the decorative symbols of the first to third symbol display objects. Determined as a combination of stop symbols. Such a combination of stop symbols may be determined by lottery, for example.

  Next, the effect control unit 707 matches the determined combination of decorative symbols to be stopped and the effect pattern is executed for the same time as the special symbol variation display time output from the effect command analysis unit 701. Is selected from the preset effect patterns 704 (S143).

  At this time, the effect control unit 707 determines whether the lottery result output from the effect command analysis unit 701 indicates “big hit” or the lottery result indicates “losing”. When the stop symbols of the decorative symbols of the first and second symbol display objects are the same among the combinations of the stopped symbols, the effect pattern for which the reach effect is set is selected. On the other hand, if the lottery result indicates “losing” and the stop symbols of the decorative symbols of the first and second symbol display objects are not the same among the determined combinations of stop symbols, the reach effect is set. Select a production pattern that is not done.

  The effect pattern 704 includes, for each effect pattern, the required time for the effect, the movement pattern of the virtual camera until the reach presence / absence determination timing, the decorative pattern variation pattern of each symbol display object, the effect before reach determination, and other special effects ( A reach effect, a so-called development effect, an effect indicating a transition to “probability change mode” or “time reduction mode” after executing a special game, and the like are set.

  Next, the effect control unit 707 outputs information such as the position and line-of-sight direction of the virtual camera, information on the selected effect pattern, and the like to the image generation unit 705 (S144).

  Based on these pieces of information, the image generation unit 705 displays the state in the three-dimensional virtual space in which the symbol display objects are arranged as a screen viewed from the virtual camera, and the symbol display objects are displayed according to the selected effect pattern. Image data for variably displaying or stopping the decorative design can be generated (see FIGS. 14A to 14E). If various effects are set for the selected effect pattern, image data is generated according to the contents of the effect.

  Next, the effect control unit 707 determines whether or not reach reach determination timing has arrived based on the selected effect pattern (S145). For example, if the symbol display object is to be stopped and displayed in the first and second order, the above timing is the timing to display the stop symbol of the decorative symbol for the second symbol display object.

  When it is determined in step S145 that it has not arrived, the effect control unit 707 determines whether or not the virtual camera movement timing has arrived based on the virtual camera movement pattern set in the selected effect pattern ( S146).

  As the movement pattern of the virtual camera, for example, as shown in FIG. 14, it is conceivable to describe the relative distance between the virtual camera and the symbol display object in association with the movement timing. In this case, various movement patterns can be set according to the design. For example, the movement pattern 1 shown in FIG. 14 does not move at the movement timing 1 (e.g., corresponding to 1 second after the start of fluctuation), moves to the relative distance 13 at the movement timing 2, and then moves at substantially the same speed. It is a pattern. Moreover, the movement pattern 2 is a pattern in which the speed increases from the middle. Moreover, the movement patterns 3 and 4 are patterns in which the relative distance increases or decreases in the middle. In particular, the introduction of a movement pattern that increases or decreases the relative distance, such as movement patterns 3 and 4, increases the variation of the movement pattern, and as a result, changes in the size of the decorative pattern, and in turn changes in the probability of shifting to a special game. The player can be more interested in the notification.

  Here, in the present embodiment, as described above, during the decorative symbol variation display, the accuracy of shifting to the special game is notified until the reach presence / absence determination timing, and the accuracy is determined at the reach presence / absence determination timing. It is configured to notify the value (reliability with respect to the effect before the reach is known). Specifically, by controlling the relative distance between the virtual camera and the symbol display object, the accuracy is notified by the size of the symbol display object displayed on the effect display device 107 (if the accuracy is small) The relative distance is increased so that the symbol display object is displayed small. When the accuracy is high, the relative distance is decreased so that the symbol display object is displayed large). In order to appropriately perform such notification, it is necessary to match the reach-before-recognition effect set to the effect pattern with the movement pattern. For example, assuming that the correspondence relationship between the reliability and the relative distance is determined as shown in FIG. 13B, when the type D reach pre-clarification effect is set in the effect pattern, for example, the movement pattern 1 shown in FIG. 2, it is necessary to set a movement pattern in which the relative distance is “1” at the last movement timing (corresponding to the reach presence / absence determination timing).

  If it is determined in step S146 that the arrival has arrived, the effect control unit 707 changes the relative distance between the virtual camera and the symbol display object based on the movement pattern of the virtual camera set in the selected effect pattern. Then, the virtual camera position, line-of-sight direction, and the like are updated (S147), and the process returns to step S144. Note that the line-of-sight direction may be updated, for example, so as to go from the virtual camera after the position update to the center of gravity of the first to third symbol display objects.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S146 that it has not arrived, the process of step S147 is omitted, and the process returns to step S144.

  On the other hand, in step S145, when it is determined that the timing for displaying the decorative symbols for the first and second symbol display objects has arrived, the effect control unit 707 executes various effects according to the selected effect pattern. (For example, necessary information is output to the image generation unit 705 or the like) (S148).

  For example, when the lottery result indicates “big hit”, the first and second symbol display objects stopped and displayed according to the selected effect pattern display a predetermined combination of stop symbols corresponding to the reach state. Has been. In this case, the effect control unit 707 performs control so that the reach effect set for the selected effect pattern is executed (and so that the effect in the case of “big hit” is subsequently executed). .

  As described above, in the present embodiment, in the effect to be executed based on the winning of the game ball at the start winning opening, the accuracy of shifting to the special game is changed until the reach presence / absence determination timing, and the reach presence / absence determination timing is notified. Since it is configured to notify the determined value of the accuracy, it is possible to continuously give the player a sense of expectation for an increase in the accuracy to shift to the special game until the reach presence determination timing, As a result, as compared with the conventional configuration in which the accuracy is definitely notified at an early stage, it is possible to maintain the player's mood and easily engulf the game.

  In the present embodiment, the accuracy is notified based on the size of the symbol display object displayed on the effect display device 107, and thus the size of the decorative symbol. However, the decorative symbol is simply enlarged. By displaying, when such notification is to be performed, there is a possibility that the process may be dropped due to a load such as an enlargement process, or the fluctuation time may be shifted. In addition, when a simple enlargement process is employed to suppress the load of the enlargement process, the image after enlargement becomes rough and the display quality deteriorates. On the other hand, in this embodiment, the symbol display object for displaying the decorative symbol is configured as a three-dimensional object, and the state in the three-dimensional virtual space in which the symbol display object is arranged is displayed as a screen viewed from the virtual camera. And adopting a framework to control the relative distance between the virtual camera and the symbol display object, so that the accuracy is notified according to the size of the symbol display object on the screen. The enlargement process for symbols and the like is not necessary, and the above-described problem does not occur.

(Modification)
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be variously modified and applied. For example, the shape and number of symbol display objects, the movement pattern of the virtual camera, the range that can be set as the relative distance, the correspondence between the reliability and the relative distance, and the like can be variously changed according to the design.

  In the above embodiment, the relative distance between the virtual camera and the symbol display object is changed by moving the virtual camera. However, the symbol display object is moved instead of or in addition to the virtual camera. The relative distance may be varied. When moving the symbol display object, the first to third symbol display objects may be initially arranged at different relative distances or may be moved separately. In this case, by appropriately setting a movement pattern or the like, it is possible to perform an effect such as an “Onigoko”, “Daruma-san” game, or horse racing.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, it is set as the structure which alert | reports the probability which transfers to a special game by the magnitude | size of the symbol display object in a display screen by controlling the relative distance of a virtual camera and a symbol display object, Instead of or in addition to the configuration, various parameters (position, tilt angle, pan angle, angle of view, rotation angle, etc.) of the virtual camera are controlled, and the display mode of the symbol display object on the display screen (how the decorative symbol appears) It is good also as a structure which alert | reports the probability which transfers to a special game by a change.

  In the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, by setting the initial value of the relative distance of each movement pattern (relative distance at movement timing 0) to be constant, the virtual camera and the symbol display object are displayed at the start of decoration symbol variation. However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. For example, the relative distance (the value with the accuracy determined) at the reach presence / absence determination timing in the previous decorative symbol variation display is used as the initial value of the relative distance in the next decorative symbol variation display (variation notification). Used as an initial value of the accuracy). In such a configuration, various movement patterns having initial values of the relative distances (16, 12, 7, and 1 in the above embodiment) that can be taken at the reach presence / absence determination timing are set, and the previous decoration is set. What is necessary is just to comprise so that a movement pattern may be selected based on the result of the fluctuation display of a symbol.

  In the above-described embodiment, the movement pattern of the virtual camera is set as the production pattern. For example, the value of the accuracy is described in the production pattern, and the production control unit 707 determines whether or not reach is reached. It is good also as a structure which controls a virtual camera or selects the movement pattern memorize | stored separately so that the fixed value of the said described said accuracy may be alert | reported at timing.

  Further, in the effect display device 107, various aspects of displaying the state in the three-dimensional virtual space as a screen viewed from the virtual camera in the decorative symbol display area can be determined according to design. However, in the said embodiment, the structure which alert | reports the probability which transfers to a special game is employ | adopted by controlling the relative distance of a virtual camera and a symbol display object by the magnitude | size of the symbol display object in a display screen. Therefore, the display mode is such that the player can intuitively grasp that the size of the symbol display object on the screen is determined depending on the relative distance between the virtual camera and the symbol display object. Is desirable. As such a display mode, for example, a mode in which an image or object such as a scale indicating the distance from the virtual camera to the symbol display object is displayed on the display screen as shown in FIG. 15 can be considered.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the probability of changing to the special game is notified until the reach presence / absence determination timing, and the determined value of the probability of shifting to the special game is notified at the reach presence / absence determination timing. Instead, the probability that the reach effect is performed until the reach presence / absence determination timing is reported in a variable manner, and the determined value of the accuracy is notified at the reach presence / absence determination timing. In this case, it is possible to continuously give the player a sense of expectation for an increase in the probability that the reach effect will be executed until the reach presence / absence determination timing. Moreover, you may comprise so that the reach | attainment reliability may be alert | reported when reach reach | attainment is performed at the reach presence determination timing. In this case, it is possible to continuously give the player a sense of expectation for an increase in the reliability of the reach effect that may be executed along with a sense of expectation for reach until the reach presence / absence determination timing.

It is a front view which shows an example of the external appearance structure of the pachinko machine of this embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows an example of the system configuration | structure of the pachinko machine. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a main control board 201. FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a sub control board 202. FIG. It is a main flowchart which shows an example of the processing operation in a main control board. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the general winning process in step S2 of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the normal symbol action | operation gate passage process in FIG.5 S3. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the normal symbol action | operation gate passage process in FIG.5 S3. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the start winning process in step S4 of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the start winning process in step S4 of FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the special game execution process in step S5 of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the processing operation in the normal game in the sub-control board 202. It is a functional block diagram showing details of a functional configuration of the effect control unit. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of a symbol display object fluctuation | variation display process. It is a figure for demonstrating how to obtain | require the reliability of the production before reach recognition. It is a figure for demonstrating the movement pattern of a virtual camera. FIG. 12 is a diagram for describing a display example of the effect display device 107.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Pachinko machine 103 Normal symbol operation gate 106 Special symbol display device 107 Production display device 108 Normal symbol display device 112 Start winning opening 113 Grand winning opening 131 Launch handle 132 Operation switch 201 Main control board 203 Winning opening board 210 Start winning opening switch 215 Ordinary electric accessory solenoid 301 Prize determination unit 302 Flag storage unit 304 Special symbol lottery unit 305 Winning determination unit 306 Special symbol display instruction unit 309 Normal symbol lottery unit 310 Winning determination unit 311 Normal symbol display instruction unit 312 Normal electric accessory driving instruction Unit 313 effect command generation unit 501 stop symbol determination unit 502 effect pattern selection unit 503 symbol display object display instruction unit 504 virtual camera control unit 701 effect command analysis unit 704 effect pattern 705 image generation unit 706 sound generation unit 707 Production control unit

Claims (6)

A lottery is performed based on the winning of the game ball at the start winning opening, and a plurality of symbols are displayed in a variable manner based on the result of the lottery, and when it is determined that the game is transferred from the normal game to the special game, A game machine that executes a game,
Image display means for displaying a state in a three-dimensional virtual space in which a symbol display object for displaying the symbol is arranged as a screen viewed from a virtual camera;
A relative control for controlling the relative distance between the virtual camera and the symbol display object so that the probability of shifting to a special game or the probability of performing a reach effect is notified depending on the size of the symbol display object on the screen. A distance control means,
The relative distance control means notifies the player that the accuracy fluctuates until the timing at which the presence or absence of the reach effect is determined by the stop symbol of the symbol, and notifies the determined value of the accuracy at the timing. A gaming machine that controls the relative distance.   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the relative distance control unit resets the relative distance at the start of the symbol variation display.   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the relative distance control unit sets an initial value of the relative distance based on the relative distance in the previous variation display of the symbol.   4. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the relative distance control unit controls the relative distance so that the accuracy decreases and is notified in a predetermined case. 5. . A lottery is performed based on the winning of the game ball at the start winning opening, and a plurality of symbols are displayed in a variable manner based on the result of the lottery, and when it is determined that the game is transferred from the normal game to the special game, A control method for a game device for executing a game,
Until the timing at which the presence or absence of the reach effect is revealed to the player by the stop symbol of the symbol, the step of varying and notifying the probability of shifting to the special game or the probability of executing the reach effect;
Informing the determined value of the accuracy at the timing;
A control method comprising:   A program for causing a computer to execute the control method according to claim 5.

Images