JP2007229182A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce the possibility of the unavoidable continuation of a promotion performance despite the result of the special display already derived and displayed by decreasing the number of commands pertaining to the promotion performance. <P>SOLUTION: A microcomputer for game control comprises a command transmitting means which transmits a variable display command that enables the specifying of the variable display time until the result of the display is derived and displayed after the start of the variable display of identifying information on a variable display device and a result of display command that enables the specification of the result of the display derived and displayed on the variable display device. The command transmitting means transmits the commands containing information that can specify whether an informative performance is executed or not to inform that the requirements for the shift to the variable probability state at a prescribed timing after the shift to the jackpot game state in the variable display command or the display result command. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention includes a variable display unit that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them and derives and displays a display result, which is advantageous for a player when a specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display unit. The present invention relates to a gaming machine that shifts to a specific gaming state and shifts to a special gaming state in which a variable display of identification information is more likely to result in a specific display than in a normal state when a predetermined transition condition is satisfied.

  As a gaming machine, a game medium such as a game ball is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game medium wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Further, a plurality of variable display units capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) are provided, and the display result of the variable display of the identification information is a specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol) in any of the variable display units. In some cases, it is configured to be able to control to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player.

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

  In such a gaming machine, the fact that the display result in the variable display unit that displays the special symbol as identification information becomes a combination of specific display modes (specific display result) that is determined in advance is called “big hit”. When a big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state in which a hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. And the number of times of opening the special winning opening is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). Note that an opening time (for example, 29.5 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Further, when a predetermined condition (for example, winning in a V zone provided in the big prize opening) is not established at the time when the big prize opening is closed, the big hit gaming state is configured to end. Sometimes.

  Some gaming machines are configured to shift a gaming state to a high-probability state (probability variation state) in which a probability that a specific gaming state occurs is high when a predetermined transition condition is satisfied. When shifting to the probability change state, the variable display unit may change the display result of the variable display of the identification information to a special display result (for example, probability change jackpot symbol) of the specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol). (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

  In addition, the game machine executes the mini-game on the variable display unit based on the player pressing the operation button during the round in the big hit game, for example, after the transition to the specific gaming state, and wins the mini-game. Depending on the number of items that have been made, the display result of the identification information is configured to notify the expected degree of promotion to the special display result for notifying the special gaming state, the so-called expected degree of completion (For example, refer to Patent Document 2).

JP-A-5-177041 (paragraph 0016) Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2005-131142 (paragraphs 0053-0058, FIG. 20)

  Whether or not to establish the transition condition for shifting the gaming state to the probability changing state is generally determined by a game control means including a game control microcomputer for controlling the progress of the game. The display control of the variable display unit is realized by the effect control means that receives the command transmitted by the game control microcomputer performing control according to the received command. Then, in order to enrich the contents of the promotion-related effects (promotion effects), the number of commands to be transmitted from the game control means to the effect control means increases. As the number of commands increases, the game control means program becomes complicated. Further, when a plurality of commands are transmitted for one display effect, the transmission timing of a command transmitted later is inevitably delayed with respect to the timing of the command transmitted first. Then, for example, there is a possibility that the promotion effect is continued even if the probability variation big win symbol is already displayed on the variable display portion, and the interest of the game is lowered.

  Therefore, the present invention provides a gaming machine that can reduce the number of commands related to the promotion effect and reduce the possibility that the promotion effect will continue even though the special display result has already been derived and displayed. The purpose is to do.

  The gaming machine according to the present invention variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols and decorative symbols) that can identify each of them, and a variable display unit (for example, the special symbol indicator 8 and variable symbols) that displays and displays the display result. Display device 9), and when a specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol) is derived and displayed on the variable display section, the display device 9) shifts to a specific gaming state (for example, jackpot gaming state) advantageous for the player, and a predetermined transition condition A special gaming state (for example, a probable change state) in which a variable display of identification information is likely to give a specific display result compared to when it is in a normal state when it is established (for example, it has been decided to be a probable big hit as a result of lottery) Game control means for controlling the progress of the game (for example, a game control microcomputer 560 including the CPU 56), and a command from the game control means. And an effect control means (for example, an effect control microcomputer 100 including the effect control CPU 101) for controlling the display state of the variable display section based on whether the game control means shifts to the specific game state, A notification effect (for example, promotion effect) for notifying whether or not the transition condition is satisfied and notifying that the transition condition has been satisfied at a predetermined time after the transition to the specific gaming state (for example, when the big hit game is finished) is executed. Whether or not to determine before the display result is derived and displayed on the variable display unit (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S56, S94, and S96 in the game control microcomputer 560); When the deciding means decides to execute the notification effect, an effect type selection for selecting a notification effect type to be executed from among a plurality of types of notification effects. 34 (steps S812 to S815 and steps S822 to S823 shown in FIG. 34 executed when the game control microcomputer 560 performs control to select the type of promotion effect, or the game control microcomputer 560 performs steps. The variable display time from the start of variable display of the identification information in the variable display section to the derivation and display of the display result based on the determination result of the determination unit of S97, S99, and S101) Command transmitting means for transmitting a variable display command that can be specified (for example, a variation pattern command) and a display result command that can specify a display result that is derived and displayed on the variable display unit (for example, a symbol specifying / effect designating command). The game control microcomputer 560 performs step S20. 5 and steps S98, S100, S102, S103, S114, S116, S118, and S119), and the command transmission means uses the variable display command or the display result command after the transition to the specific gaming state. Whether to execute a notification effect for notifying that the transition condition has been established at a predetermined time (for example, when executing a notification effect, “and jackpot promotion effect designation”, “and jackpot promotion effect designation” or If the design specific / effect designating command including “and hitting the big hit / designating the promotion effect after the big hit” is transmitted, and the notification effect is not executed, the “designating the big hit during the big hit”, “designating the promotion effect after the big hit”, and “and The symbol design / effect designating command not including “mid-hit / post-hit promotion designating” is sent) and the performance selected by the production type selection means The type of information (for example, the promotion effect during the big hit or the promotion effect after the big hit) is transmitted including the identifiable information, and the effect control means is identified by the variable display unit based on the variable display command transmitted by the command transmission means. Variable display execution means for executing variable display of information and deriving and displaying the identification information specified by the display result command when the variable display time specified by the variable display command has elapsed (for example, step S802 in the production control microcomputer 100). , S803, S804) and the variable display command or display result command transmitted by the command transmission means indicate that the notification effect is executed, the notification effect is executed at a predetermined time. Notification effect executing means (for example, a step in the effect control microcomputer 100). When the predetermining unit determines that the transition condition is satisfied, the predetermining unit does not establish the transition condition, and the production type selecting unit determines that the transition condition is satisfied (the portion that executes the processes of S877 to S879 and S866 to S871). Is selected at a higher rate than other notification effects, for example, a specific type of notification effect (for example, “promotion effect executed during and after the big hit game” shown in FIG. 7C). It is characterized by doing.

  Another aspect of the gaming machine according to the present invention is a variable display unit (for example, a special symbol display) that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols and decorative symbols) that can identify each of them and that displays a display result. Device 8 and a variable display device 9), and when a specific display result (for example, a big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the variable display unit, a transition is made to a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state) advantageous to the player, A special gaming state (for example, a variable display of identification information is more likely to be a specific display result than a normal state when a predetermined transition condition (for example, it has been decided to be a probable big hit as a result of lottery) is established, for example. A game control means for controlling the progress of the game (for example, a game control microcomputer 560 including a CPU 56) and a game control means. Effect control means (for example, an effect control microcomputer 100 including the effect control CPU 101) that controls the display state of the variable display unit based on the command of the game, and whether or not the game control means shifts to the specific game state. And whether or not the transition condition is satisfied, and a notification effect (for example, promotion) that notifies that the transition condition is satisfied at a predetermined time after transition to the specific gaming state (for example, during the big hit game or after the big hit game ends) Pre-determining means for determining whether or not to execute the effect before the display result is derived and displayed on the variable display unit (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S56, S94, and S96 in the game control microcomputer 560) ) And based on the determination result of the pre-decision means, the display result is derived and displayed after variable display of the identification information in the variable display section is started. A variable display command (for example, a variation pattern command) that can specify a variable display time until the display and a display result command (for example, a symbol specification / effect designation command) that can specify a display result derived and displayed on the variable display unit Command transmitting means for transmitting (for example, a part for executing the processing of step S205 and steps S98, S100, S102, S103, S114, S116, S118, and S119 in the gaming control microcomputer 560). Whether or not to execute a notification effect informing the variable display command or the display result command that the transition condition is established at a predetermined time after the transition to the specific gaming state (for example, “and “Direction promotion promotion during jackpot”, “Direction promotion after jackpot” or “And jackpot If a symbol specific / effect designation command including “medium / big hit promotion effect designation” is transmitted and the notification effect is not executed, “and jackpot middle effect designation”, “and jackpot promotion effect designation” and “and big hit / The symbol designating / designating command that does not include “promotion design designation after jackpot” is transmitted including the identifiable information, and the production control means is a variable display section based on the variable display command sent by the command transmission means. In the variable display execution means (for example, in the production control microcomputer 100, the identification information specified by the display result command is derived and displayed after the variable display time specified by the variable display command has elapsed. Steps S802, S803, and S804)) and variable display transmitted by the command transmission means When the command or the display result command indicates that the notification effect is to be executed, the notification effect execution means for executing the notification effect at a predetermined time (for example, the processing of steps S877 to S879 in the effect control microcomputer 100, Steps S866 to S871, Steps S889 to S893 and Steps S904 to S911) and a variable display command or a display result command indicate that a notification effect is to be executed. 33), the effect type selection means (for example, the part that executes the process of step S813 in the effect control microcomputer 100) is selected. When the decision means decides to establish the transition condition Compared to the case where the predetermining means decides not to establish the transition condition, a certain type of notification effect (for example, the two-segment effect or the four-segment effect shown in FIG. 33) is higher than the other notification effects. It is characterized by selecting with.

  Still another aspect of the gaming machine according to the present invention is a variable display unit (for example, a special symbol) that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, a special symbol or a decorative symbol) that can identify each of them and displays a display result. Display device 8 and variable display device 9), and when a specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol) is derived and displayed on the variable display section, it is shifted to a specific gaming state (for example, jackpot gaming state) that is advantageous to the player , A special gaming state in which the variable display of the identification information is likely to be a specific display result compared to the normal state when a predetermined transition condition (for example, it is determined to be a probable big hit as a result of the lottery) For example, a game machine to be shifted to a probability change state), a game control means for controlling the progress of the game (for example, a game control microcomputer 560 including the CPU 56), and game control Effect control means (for example, effect control microcomputer 100 including effect control CPU 101) that controls the display state of the variable display unit based on a command from the stage, and the game control means shifts to a specific game state. Whether or not the transition condition is satisfied, and a notification effect (for example, during the big hit game or after the end of the big hit game) that informs that the transition condition is satisfied (for example, during the big hit game or after the end of the big hit game) , Advancement effect) is executed before the display result is derived and displayed on the variable display unit (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 executes steps S56, S94, and S96). And the display result after starting variable display of the identification information in the variable display section based on the determination result of the predetermination means. A variable display command (for example, a variation pattern command) that can specify a variable display time until display, and a display result command (for example, a symbol specification / effect designation command) that can specify a display result derived and displayed on the variable display unit; Command transmission means (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S205 and S98, S100, S102, S103, S114, S116, S118, and S119 in the gaming control microcomputer 560). Whether or not to execute a notification effect that notifies the variable display command or the display result command that the transition condition has been established at a predetermined time after the transition to the specific gaming state (for example, “ And the bonus promotion during the jackpot promotion designation "," and the promotion after the jackpot promotion designation "or" and When a symbol specific / effect designating command including “meeting big hit / designating promotion after jackpot” is sent and no notification effect is executed, “and jackpot effect designation”, “and jackpot promotion designation” and “and jackpot / Sending the symbol designating / designating command that does not include “promotion design designation after jackpot” including the identifiable information, and the production control means variably displays based on the variable display command sent by the command sending means The variable display execution means for executing the variable display of the identification information in the section and deriving and displaying the identification information specified by the display result command when the variable display time specified by the variable display command elapses (for example, the production control microcomputer 100). In step S802, S803, S804) and the command transmitted by the command transmission means. When the display command or the display result command indicates that the notification effect is to be executed, the divided notification effect execution means for simultaneously executing a plurality of notification effects in the effect display unit (for example, the variable display device 9) at a predetermined time. (For example, in the microcomputer 100 for effect control when the 2-division effect or the 4-division effect is determined in the process of steps S812 and S813, the part for executing the processes of steps S877 to S879 and steps S866 to S871). It is characterized by.

  The division notification effect executing means provides a plurality of notification effects in the effect display unit when the prior determination means determines that the transition condition is satisfied, compared to when the prior determination means determines that the transition condition is not satisfied. (For example, in the example shown in FIG. 33, a 2-division effect or a 4-division effect is more easily selected in the case of a probable big hit than in a normal big hit).

  When the predetermining means decides to establish the transition condition, the number of executions of the notification effect is increased compared to when the predetermining means determines not to establish the transition condition (for example, the example shown in FIG. 7C). In this case, it is preferable that the “promotion effect executed during and after the big hit game” is more easily selected when the probable big hit is determined than when the non-probable big hit is determined.

  When the predetermining means decides to establish the transition condition, the notification effect is executed both in the specific gaming state and after the end of the specific gaming state, compared to when the predetermining means decides not to establish the transition condition. (For example, in the example shown in FIG. 7 (C), when the probability variation big hit is determined, it is executed during and after the big hit game, compared with the case where the non-probable big hit is determined. It is preferable that “promotion effect” is easily selected.

  The variable display execution means (for example, the part that executes the processing of steps S802, S803, and S804 in the production control microcomputer 100) satisfies the transition condition on the condition that the notification production is determined to be executed. When stop identification information (for example, a probable big hit symbol) corresponding to the event is determined, it is determined to notify the variable display command or the display result command that the transition condition is established by the notification effect. Is included in the variable display section, for example, the identification information other than the stop identification information (for example, non-probable big hit symbol) is derived and displayed (for example, in step S800, the promotion effect is given during or after the big hit) When an effect control command indicating execution is received, an effect control command specified with probability variation jackpot Also be received, to determine the stop symbols in the normal big hit symbol, the determined stop symbols to be stopped and displayed by the process at step S804), it is preferable.

  A command (for example, 8C03 (H), 8C04 (H), 8C07 (H), 8C03 (H)) including information that can specify that the notification effect is executed during the specific gaming state as the variable display command or the display result command. Production control commands) and commands (for example, 8C05 (H), 8C06 (H), 8C07 (H), 8C03 (H)) including information that can be specified to execute the notification effect after the end of the specific gaming state. Control notification) and the notification effect executing means or the divided notification effect executing means includes information that can specify that the notification effect is executed after the specific gaming state is ended in the variable display command or the display result command. The variable display command or the display result command includes information indicating that the transition condition is established by the notification effect. Even if the notification effect is executed during the specific gaming state, the notification result effect indicating that the transition condition is satisfied is not performed (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 corresponds to “success” in step S877). It is preferable that the process table to be selected is not selected).

  An operation means (for example, a promotion / notice button 120) that outputs an operation signal in response to a player's operation is provided, and the effect control means executes a notification effect in response to the operation signal being output from the operation means. It may be configured to include a notice effect means (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S854 to S857 in the effect control microcomputer 100) that displays a notice display capable of recognizing that on the variable display unit.

  The effect control means is a specific game state end effect executing means (for example, an effect) for executing a specific game state end effect (for example, jackpot end display) for notifying the end of the specific game state different from the notification effect in the variable display unit. In the control microcomputer 100, the execution time of the specific gaming state end effect (for example, 2 seconds) is shorter than the execution time of the notification effect (for example, 8 seconds). preferable.

  The game control means is a table used when the pre-deciding means decides to establish the transition condition, and the transition condition is set by associating data indicating a plurality of types of notification effects and predetermined numerical values. An established table (refer to the left side of FIG. 7C) and a table used when the pre-decision unit decides not to establish the transition condition, and data indicating a plurality of types of notification effects and predetermined numerical values The transition condition non-satisfaction table (see the right side of FIG. 7C) and the selection numerical data (for example, a counter for generating a promotion effect determination random number) are updated within a predetermined range. Numerical data updating means for selection (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S17 and S25 in the game control microcomputer 560), and for selecting the numerical data for selection Value data extraction means (for example, the part that executes the processing of step S53 in the game control microcomputer 560), and the effect type selection means transitions between the transition condition establishment table and the transition according to the determination result of the prior determination means. Select either one of the condition non-satisfaction table and select a notification effect corresponding to the selection numerical data extracted by the selection numerical data extraction means from the selected transition condition satisfaction table or transition condition non-satisfaction table (for example, , Steps S96 and S112).

  In the first aspect of the present invention, the game control means includes effect type selection means for selecting a type of notification effect to be executed from among a plurality of types of notification effects when the prior decision means determines to execute the notification effect. The command transmission means is selected by the effect type selection means as to whether or not to execute a notification effect informing the variable display command or the display result command that the transition condition is established at a predetermined time after the transition to the specific gaming state. The type of notification effect including the identifiable information is transmitted, and the effect type selection means determines that the prior determination means does not establish the transition condition when the prior determination means determines that the transition condition is satisfied. Compared to times, it is configured to select a specific type of notification effect at a higher rate than other notification effects, so the number of commands related to the notification effect is reduced. Already Despite that satisfied the transition condition is informed, notification effect can reduce the possibility that continued. In addition, when the transition condition is satisfied, a specific type of notification effect is executed at a high frequency, so that the reliability of the player after the transition effect can be maintained.

  In the invention according to claim 2, the game control means can specify whether or not the command transmission means executes a notification effect for notifying that the transition condition is established at a predetermined time after transition to the specific gaming state. When the advance type selecting means determines that the transition condition is satisfied when the advance type selection means determines that the transition condition is satisfied, the specific type of notification effect is transmitted. Is selected at a higher rate than other notification effects, so the number of commands related to the notification effects is reduced and the notification effects are reported despite the fact that the transition condition has already been established. Can be reduced. Moreover, since the effect control means selects the type of notification effect, the control burden on the game control means is reduced.

  In the invention according to claim 3, the game control means, the command transmission means, gives a notification effect informing the variable display command or the display result command that the transition condition is established at a predetermined time after the transition to the specific gaming state. Whether or not to execute the information including information that can be specified is transmitted, and the effect control means is predetermined when the variable display command or the display result command transmitted by the command transmission means indicates that the notification effect is executed. In this stage, the effect display unit includes divided notification effect execution means for executing a plurality of notification effects at the same time, so that the number of commands related to the notification effect is reduced and it is reported that the transition condition has already been established. Therefore, the possibility that the notification effect is continued can be reduced. Moreover, the interest regarding a notification effect can be improved by performing a several alerting effect simultaneously.

  In the invention according to claim 4, when the divided notification effect executing means determines that the predetermining means establishes the transition condition, more notifications than when the predetermining means determines not to satisfy the transition condition. Since the effect is configured to be executed at a plurality of locations in the effect display unit, it is possible to improve the interest related to the notification effect, and many types of notification effects are executed at a high frequency when the transition condition is established. Thus, the reliability of the player after the transition can be prevented from being impaired.

  The invention according to claim 5 is configured such that when the predetermining means decides to establish the transition condition, the number of executions of the notification effect is increased compared to when the predetermining means decides not to establish the transition condition. Therefore, it is possible to improve the interest related to the notification effect and not to impair the reliability of the player after the transition by executing the notification effect many times when the transition condition is established. Can do.

  In the invention according to claim 6, when the predetermining means decides to establish the transition condition, compared to when the predetermining means decides not to establish the transition condition, during the specific gaming state and after the end of the specific gaming state Since it is configured to increase the rate at which the notification effect is executed on both sides, it is possible to improve the interest related to the notification effect, and when the transition condition is established, during the specific gaming state and after the specific gaming state ends Thus, it is possible to prevent the player's reliability with respect to the post-transition effect from being impaired by increasing the frequency at which the notification effect is executed.

  In the invention according to claim 7, when the stop identification information corresponding to the establishment of the transition condition is determined on the condition that the variable display executing means is determined to perform the notification effect. When the variable display command or the display result command includes information indicating that it is determined to notify that the transition condition is established by the notification effect, identification information other than the stop identification information is displayed on the variable display unit. Since it is configured to be derived and displayed, after the stop identification information corresponding to the establishment of the transition condition is derived and displayed, the post-transition effect is not executed, so that the player does not feel uncomfortable. be able to.

  In the invention according to claim 8, when the notification effect executing means or the divided notification effect executing means includes information that can specify that the notification effect is executed after the specific gaming state is ended in the variable display command or the display result command. Even if the variable display command or the display result command includes information indicating that the transition condition is established by the notification effect, the transition condition is satisfied when the notification effect is executed during the specific gaming state. The notification effect indicating that the transition condition is established is not performed, so that the notification effect is not executed again after the notification effect for notifying that the transition condition is established, and the player feels uncomfortable. Can not be given.

  In the ninth aspect of the invention, the notice control means displays on the variable display section a notice display capable of recognizing that the notice effect is executed in response to the output of the operation signal from the operation means. Therefore, it is possible to make the player feel as if the notification effect has been started by his / her own operation, and the interest of the game can be improved.

  In the invention according to claim 10, the effect control means includes specific game state end effect execution means for executing a specific game state end effect for notifying the end of the specific game state different from the notification effect in the variable display unit, Since the execution time of the specific gaming state end effect is shorter than the execution time of the notification effect, the notification effect is not executed in the specific game state end effect and there is no possibility of transition to the special gaming state, and the effect is run longer. Can be avoided.

  In the invention according to claim 11, the production type selection means selects either the transition condition satisfaction table or the transition condition failure satisfaction table according to the determination result of the prior determination means, and the selected transition condition satisfaction table Alternatively, since the notification effect corresponding to the selection numerical data extracted by the selection numerical data extraction means is selected from the table when the transition condition is not satisfied, the notification effect that is often executed when the transition condition is satisfied And the type of notification effect that is often executed when the transition condition is not satisfied can be easily separated.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  First, an overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front. In the following embodiments, a pachinko gaming machine will be described as an example. However, the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine, and can be applied to other gaming machines such as a slot machine.

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

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

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

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

  A special symbol display (special symbol display device) 8 that variably displays a special symbol as identification information is provided on the variable display device 9. In this embodiment, the special symbol display 8 is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers “0” to “9”, for example. The special symbol display 8 may be configured to variably display more types of numbers such as “0” to “99” in order to make it difficult for the player to grasp a specific stop symbol.

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

  At the bottom of the variable display device 9, a special symbol hold memory display comprising four displays for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the start winning opening 14, that is, the number of hold memories (also referred to as start memory or start prize memory). 18 is provided. Every time there is an effective start prize, the display color of one display is changed. Each time the variable display on the special symbol display 8 is started, the display color of one display is restored. In this example, since the special symbol display 8 and the special symbol hold memory display 18 are provided separately, the number of hold memories can be displayed even during variable display. In the display area of the variable display device 9, a special symbol reserved storage display area including four display areas for displaying the number of reserved memories may be provided. In this embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of reserved memories is 4, but the upper limit value may be larger. Further, the upper limit value may be changed according to the gaming state. Further, when the game ball wins the start winning opening 14 when the number of stored memories is 4, the win becomes a win that is not a valid start win (invalid start win).

  In this example, the special symbol on-hold storage display 18 for displaying the number of on-hold memories is provided separately from the variable display device 9, but a part of the display area of the variable display device 9 is displayed on the special symbol on-hold storage display. It may be an area. In that case, the special symbol hold memory display 18 for displaying the number of reserved memories can be eliminated.

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

  When a specific display result (a jackpot symbol: for example, symbols “3” and “7” out of “0” to “9”) is derived and displayed on the special symbol display 8 below the start winning opening 14 There is provided a special variable winning device that is opened by the solenoid 21 in a specific gaming state (a big hit gaming state) occurring in the game. The special variable winning device includes an opening / closing plate 20 and forms a big winning opening. The game ball that has entered the big prize opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  A normal symbol display 10 is provided directly above the variable display device 9. The normal symbol display 10 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, “◯” and “x”) called normal symbols.

  When a game ball wins the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting the left and right lamps (a symbol can be visually recognized when the lamp is lit). For example, if the left lamp is lit when the variable display ends, it is a hit. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. That is, the state of the variable winning ball device 15 changes from a disadvantageous state to a player's advantageous state when the normal symbol is a winning symbol. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a game ball passing to the gate 32, the normal symbol hold memory display 41 increments the LED to be turned on by one. Then, every time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one.

  The game board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning holes 29, 30, 33, 39, and winning of game balls to the winning holes 29, 30, 33, 39 is performed by winning hole switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a, respectively. Detected. Each winning opening 29, 30, 33, 39 constitutes a winning area provided in the game board 6 as an area for accepting game balls and allowing winning. The start winning opening 14 and the big winning opening also constitute a winning area that accepts game balls and allows winning. A decorative lamp 25 blinkingly displayed during the game is provided around the left and right of the game area 7 of the game board 6, and an out port 26 into which a hit ball that has not won a prize is taken in at the bottom. In addition, two speakers 27 that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c are provided. Further, a decoration LED is installed around each structure (such as a big prize opening) in the game area 7. The top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the decorative LED are examples of a decorative light emitter provided in the gaming machine.

  Also, below the left speaker 27 is provided a prize ball LED 51 that is lit while paying out the prize ball, and below the right speaker 27 is provided a ball break LED 52 that is lit when the supply ball is cut. Yes. Further, a prepaid card unit that enables lending of a ball by inserting a prepaid card is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1 (not shown).

  In this embodiment, a promotion / notice button 120 as an operation means that can be operated by the player is provided immediately above the hitting operation handle 5. The promotion / notice button 120 is operated by the player during execution of the promotion effect after jackpot (see FIG. 24) or the notice effect (see FIG. 23). When the promotion / notice button 120 is pressed by the player, the microcomputer is turned on by contact with the electrode, and an on signal (detection signal) is mounted on the board (in this embodiment, the effect control board) 80 is output to the production control microcomputer 100 (see FIG. 3). In the example shown in FIG. 1, the promotion / notice button 120 is provided directly above the hitting operation handle 5, but may be provided at another location (for example, the hitting ball supply tray 3).

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

  The variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 and the decorative symbol of the variable display device 9 stops when a predetermined time has elapsed. When the stop symbol at the time of stoppage becomes a jackpot symbol (specific display result), the game shifts to a jackpot game state. That is, the special variable prize-winning device is opened until a predetermined time (for example, 29 seconds) elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls have won the big prize opening. It should be noted that one round in the big hit gaming state is a period from when the special variable winning device is opened until a predetermined period elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, ten) of hitting balls wins the big winning opening.

  The special symbol variable display on the special symbol display unit 8 and the decorative symbol variable display on the variable display device 9 are synchronized. Here, synchronization means that the change start time and the change end time are the same and the variable display period is the same. Further, when the big hit symbol ("3" or "7") is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 8, the variable display device 9 is in a state where the left, middle and right decorative symbols are aligned (for example, "222" and "777"). Etc.). Hereinafter, the stop display in the state in which the left, right, and right decorative symbols are aligned on the variable display device 9 is expressed as a big hit symbol (specific display result) of the decorative symbol is displayed.

  In addition, when a predetermined transition condition is established, a probability variation state (probability variation state of the probability variation state) is determined with a higher probability (percentage) than the normal state (normal gaming state) when determining the big hit after the end of the big hit gaming state. It is also called a high probability state. That is, it becomes a more advantageous state for the player in a probable change state. In the case of being controlled to the certain change state, a predetermined display effect (hereinafter also referred to as a promotion effect) is executed on the variable display device 9, and a display for notifying that the result is controlled to the certain change state is made. . However, such a display effect may be executed when the probability variation state is not controlled. When it is executed when it is not controlled to the certain change state, a display for notifying that it is not controlled to the certain change state is made as an effect result. Further, in this embodiment, there is a case where the gaming state is controlled to the probability changing state without executing the promotion effect, but when the probability state is controlled, the promotion effect is always executed. Good.

  In this embodiment, the special symbol and the decorative symbol stop symbol are not distinguished in the case of the normal jackpot and the probability variation jackpot. Then, the promotion effect informs whether or not the gaming state is shifted to the probability changing state. Therefore, when the player wins the bonus, the special symbol and the decorative symbol stop symbol are simply jackpot symbols, and the promotion effect can make the player feel as if the normal jackpot has been promoted to a promising jackpot.

  In the case of a probable big hit, a symbol corresponding to the probable big hit (probable big hit symbol) may be displayed as a special symbol and a decorative symbol stop symbol. However, if the promotion effect during the big hit or the promotion effect after the big hit is executed, even if it is determined to be a probable big hit, the probable big hit symbol is not stopped and displayed at the end of the variable display. The probable big hit symbol is derived and displayed on the variable display device 9 as a result of the big hit promotion effect or the big hit promotion effect.

  In this embodiment, in the probability changing state, the normal symbol display 10 has a higher probability that the stopped symbol will be a winning symbol than the normal state, and among the opening time and the number of times of opening in the variable winning ball apparatus 15 One or both of these will be in an advantageous state for the player. In the probability variation state, the variable symbol display time (variation time) of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display device 10 may be shorter than that in the normal state, which may be more advantageous for the player.

  Next, the reach display mode (reach) will be described. The reach display mode (reach) means that the decorative symbols that have not stopped yet are displayed in a variable manner (variable display) when the stopped decorative symbols constitute part of the jackpot symbol, and all Alternatively, some decorative symbols are in a state of being variably displayed synchronously while constituting all or part of the jackpot symbol.

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

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

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. 2 also shows the payout control board 37, the effect control board 80, and the like. A basic circuit (corresponding to game control means) 53 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The basic circuit 53 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, and a game control microcomputer 560 having a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program. , I / O port unit 57. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to include at least the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or internal. Further, the I / O port unit 57 may be incorporated in the game control microcomputer 560. In this case, the game control microcomputer 560 also includes an I / O port unit.

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

  Also, an input driver circuit 58 for supplying detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a and 39a to the basic circuit 53 is mounted on the main board 31 and is specially variable. A solenoid circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 21 for opening / closing the winning device (opening / closing plate 20) and the solenoid 16 for opening / closing the variable winning device 15 according to a command from the basic circuit 53 is also mounted on the main board 31 and resets the CPU 56 when the power is turned on. System reset circuit (not shown) for output, and an information output circuit for outputting an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer in accordance with data given from the basic circuit 53 64 is also mounted on the main board 31.

  In this embodiment, the CPU 56 performs display control of the special symbol display 8 that variably displays special symbols, and also performs display control of the normal symbol display 10 that variably displays normal symbols. Further, the CPU 56 controls the display state of the special symbol hold storage display 18 and also controls the display state of the normal symbol hold storage display 41.

  The hitting ball launching device that hits and launches the game ball launches the game ball toward the game area 7 as the launch motor 94 rotates. A power signal for driving the firing motor 94 is supplied to the firing motor 94 via the touch sensor substrate 90 from a power source mounted on a power supply board (not shown). A connection signal (VL signal) is input from the card unit 50 to the touch sensor substrate 90 via the interface substrate 66. Further, the touching of the operation knob (hitting ball handle) 5 by the player is detected by a touch sensor mounted on the touch sensor substrate 90. Then, the detection signal from the touch sensor and the signal from the power source are input to one AND circuit on the touch sensor substrate 90, and the output signal of the one AND circuit and the VL signal from the card unit 50 are the touch sensor substrate. 90 is input to another AND circuit, and a signal is output from the other AND circuit to the firing motor 94. Therefore, when the detection signal is not output from the touch sensor because the VL signal from the card unit 50 is not output to the touch sensor substrate 90 or the player does not touch the operation knob 5, the firing motor 94 Driving is stopped.

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

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

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

  The effect control command and the effect control INT signal are first input to the input driver 102 on the effect control board 80. The input driver 102 passes the signal input from the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the inside of the effect control board 80 (does not pass the signal in the direction from the inside of the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). It is also a unidirectional circuit as a regulating means.

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit is installed. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 3 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the lamp to the lamp driver board 35 via the input / output port 105. The effect control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the input / output port 104.

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the lamp is input to the lamp driver 352 via the input / output driver 351. The lamp driver 352 amplifies a signal for driving the lamp and supplies the amplified signal to each lamp provided on the frame side such as the top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, and the right frame lamp 28c. Further, it is supplied to a decorative lamp 25 provided on the frame side.

  In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input / output driver 702. The voice synthesizing IC 703 generates voice and sound effects corresponding to the sound number data and outputs them to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speaker 27. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data. The control data corresponding to the sound number data is a collection of data indicating the sound effect or sound output mode in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, a decorative symbol variation period).

  The signal for driving the lamp and the sound number data are communicated between the effect control CPU 101, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70 in such a way that a response signal is transmitted from the signal receiving side to the transmitting side. Communication).

  The effect control CPU 101 reads necessary data from a character ROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The character ROM is for storing character image data, specifically, a person, a character, a figure, a symbol, etc. (including decorative designs) in advance. The effect control CPU 101 outputs the data read from the character ROM to the VDP 109. The VDP 109 executes display control of the variable display device 9 based on the data input from the effect control CPU 101.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the variable display device 9 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent from the CPU 101 for effect control, and maps the VRAM there. The VRAM is a buffer memory for expanding image data generated by the VDP. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the variable display device 9.

  The effect control CPU 101 also receives a signal from the promotion / notice button 120 via the input port 108. The effect control CPU 101 executes control of a plurality of types of effect devices (variable display device 9, various lamps, speaker 27) in response to a signal from the promotion / notice button 120.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by game control means (game control microcomputer 560: CPU 56 and peripheral circuits such as ROM 54 and RAM 55) on the main board 31. When power is turned on to the gaming machine and the input level of the reset terminal becomes high level, the CPU 56 starts main processing after step S1. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

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

  Next, the CPU 56 confirms the state of the output signal of a clear switch (not shown) input via the input port only once (step S7). When the on-state is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes normal initialization processing (steps S11 to S14).

  If the clear switch is not on, check whether data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) was performed when power supply to the gaming machine was stopped (Step S8). When it is confirmed that the power supply stop process is not performed, the CPU 56 executes an initialization process. Whether or not the power supply stop process has been performed is confirmed by, for example, the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process. In this example, if “55H” is set in the backup flag area, it means that power supply stop processing has been performed, and if a value other than “55H” is set, power supply stop processing is performed. It means that it was not.

  After confirming that the power supply stop process has been performed, the CPU 56 performs data check (parity check in this example) in the backup RAM area (step S9). In step S9, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, the initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 performs a game state restoration process for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electric component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped (step S10). ). Then, the saved value of the PC (program counter) saved in the backup RAM area is set in the PC, and the address is restored.

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

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S11). In addition, a predetermined work area (for example, a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol buffer, a special symbol process flag, a payout command storage pointer, a winning ball flag, a ball out flag, a payout stop flag, etc. A work area setting process for setting an initial value to a flag for selectively performing processing according to the state is performed (step S12). Furthermore, a process of transmitting an initialization command for initializing the sub-boards (the payout control board 37 and the effect control board 80 in this embodiment) to each sub-board is executed (step S13). Examples of the initialization command include a command indicating an initial design of a decorative design displayed on the variable display device 9.

  Then, a CTC register set in the CPU 56 is set so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every 2 ms (step S14). That is, a value corresponding to 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value.

  When the execution of the initialization process (steps S11 to S14) is completed, the display random number update process (step S17) and the initial value random number update process (step S18) are repeatedly executed in the main process. When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are executed, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S16). When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are finished, the interrupt enabled state is set. (Step S19).

  The display random number is a random number for determining the symbol displayed on the special symbol display 8, and the display random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. is there. The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. The initial value random number is a random number for determining the initial value of the count value, such as a counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to make a big hit (a big hit determination random number generation counter). In a game control process described later, when the count value of the jackpot determination random number generation counter makes one round, an initial value is set in the counter.

  Note that when the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are executed, the interrupt is prohibited. The display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are also executed in the timer interrupt process described later. This is to avoid competing with the processing in the timer interrupt processing. That is, a timer interrupt is generated during the processing of step S17 or step S18, and a counter value for generating a display random number during the timer interrupt processing or a counter count value for generating an initial value random number If updated, the continuity of the count value may be impaired. However, such an inconvenience does not occur if the interrupt disabled state is set during the processes of steps S17 and S18.

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 performs the register saving process (step S20), and then executes the game control process of steps S21 to S31 shown in FIG. In the game control process, the CPU 56 first inputs detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, and the count switch 23 via the input driver circuit 58, and determines their state (switch process: step S21). .

  Next, the CPU 56 executes display control processing for performing display control of the special symbol display 8, the normal symbol display 10, the special symbol hold storage display 18, and the normal symbol hold storage display 41 (step S22). For the special symbol display 8 and the normal symbol display 10, control for outputting a drive signal to each display is executed according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S32 and S33.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a jackpot determination random number used for game control (determination random number update process: step S23). The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number update process, display random number update process: steps S24 and S25). In this embodiment, the random number for determination includes a random number for probability variation determination for determining whether to control (shift) to the probability variation state in addition to the random number for jackpot determination. As display random numbers, a random symbol for determining a special symbol, a random number for determining a variation pattern, a random number for determining a variation pattern, a random number for determining a promotion effect for determining whether or not to perform a promotion effect and so on.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Decide whether or not to generate a big hit (for big hit judgment)
(2) Random 2: A special symbol that generates a big hit is determined (for determining a big hit symbol)
(3) Random 3: Determine the special symbol's off symbol (for determining off symbol)
(4) Random 4: Determines the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol (for variation pattern determination)
(5) Random 5: Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(6) Random 6: Determine the initial value of random 1 (for determining the random 1 initial value)
(7) Random 7: Determine the initial value of random 5 (for determining the random 5 initial value)
(8) Random 8: Decide whether or not to shift to the probability variation state (for probability variation determination)
(9) Random 9: Decide whether or not to execute the promotion effect (for promotion effect determination)

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S26). In the special symbol process, corresponding processing is executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special variable winning device in a predetermined order according to the gaming state. In the special symbol process, a command setting process for the effect control board 80 is also executed. The value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs normal symbol process processing (step S27). In the normal symbol process, the corresponding process is executed according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state. By executing the normal symbol process, the display control of the normal symbol display 10 and the opening / closing control of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 are executed.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command related to the display control of the variable display device 9 (effect control command control process: step S28).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes prize ball processing for setting the number of prize balls based on the detection signals of the start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the prize opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a (step S30). Specifically, the payout control mounted on the payout control board 37 in response to winning detection based on any of the start opening switch 14a, the count switch 23 and the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a being turned on. A payout control command indicating the number of prize balls is output to the microcomputer. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

  Then, the CPU 56 issues a drive command to the solenoid circuit 59 when a predetermined condition is satisfied (step S31: output process). The solenoid circuit 59 drives the solenoids 16 and 21 in accordance with a drive command in order to open the variable winning ball device 15 or the opening / closing plate 20 in the open state or the closed state.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol display control processing for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of the special symbol in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data according to the value of the special symbol process flag ( Step S32). For example, when the start flag is set, the CPU 56 sets the output buffer in the output buffer every 0.2 seconds if the fluctuation speed is 1 frame / 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set. 1 is added to the value of the display control data. In addition, the CPU 56 performs variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in an output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S33). For example, if the normal symbol fluctuation speed is such that the display state (“◯” and “×”) is switched every 0.2 seconds, the CPU 56 sets the output buffer every 0.2 seconds. The display control data value to be switched (for example, 1 indicating “◯” and 0 indicating “×”) is switched. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a normal signal on the normal symbol display 10 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer. Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S34), and the process is terminated.

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

  FIG. 7A is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a big hit determination value. The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the counter for generating the big hit determination random number at a predetermined time and uses the extracted value as the big hit determination random value. The big hit determination random value is shown in FIG. If it matches the jackpot determination value shown in FIG. In the normal state, the CPU 56 compares the jackpot determination random number value with the numerical value described in the left column in FIG. 7, and in the probability variation state, the jackpot determination random number value and the right column in FIG. Compare with the numbers listed. The numerical value described in the left column in FIG. 7A is set in the ROM 54 as the normal jackpot determination value, and the numerical value described in the right column in FIG. Is set.

  FIG. 7B is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a probability variation determination value. The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the counter for generating the probability variation determination random number at a predetermined time and uses the extracted value as the probability variation determination random value. When the probability variation determination random value matches the probability variation determination value shown in FIG.

  FIG. 7C is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the promotion effect determination value and whether or not to promote the promotion effect. The CPU 56 extracts a count value of a counter for generating a promotion effect determination random number at a predetermined time and uses the extracted value as a promotion effect determination random value. The promotion effect determination value is associated with data indicating whether or not the promotion effect is performed and the execution timing of the promotion effect, and is associated with a table (specifically, a table corresponding to the right side of FIG. 7C and a left side of FIG. 7C). Is set in the ROM 54 as a table corresponding to. The CPU 56 determines whether or not to perform the promotion effect and the execution timing of the promotion effect according to the data associated with the promotion effect determination value that matches the promotion effect determination random value.

  In addition, when it is determined that it is a probable big hit, the ratio determined to execute the promotion effect is increased as compared to the case where it is not. In steps S97, S99, and S101, the CPU 56 compares the value of the promotion effect determination random number with the value of the promotion effect determination value, and executes the promotion effect determination value (the promotion effect that matches the value of the promotion effect determination random number). When there is a corresponding promotion effect determination value), it is decided to execute the promotion effect, but the number of promotion effect determination values corresponding to executing the promotion effect when it is determined to be a probable big hit is Otherwise, there are more than the number of promotion effect determination values corresponding to executing the promotion effect.

  In this embodiment, the random number for probability variation determination is any one of 0 to 9, and there are five types of probability variation determination values. Therefore, when it is determined to be a big hit, the probability variation has a probability of 1/2. It is decided to control to the state. Therefore, it is decided not to control the probability variation state with a probability of 1/2. It is said that it is determined to be a jackpot and that it is determined to be a jackpot and to be controlled to a probability variation state is determined to be a jackpot. Further, determining that the jackpot is determined to be a big hit and not controlling the probability variation state is referred to as a non-probable variation big hit.

  In the example shown in FIG. 7C, when it is determined to be a probable big hit, the promotion effect is executed at a rate of 7/10, and it is decided to be a normal big hit (non-probable big hit). If so, the promotion effect is executed at a rate of 6/10.

  The random number for probability variation determination is any one of 0 to 9 (any of 10 types). Further, for example, there are three types of promotion effect determination values corresponding to executing the promotion effect only during the big hit game. Then, when it is determined to be a big hit, it is decided to execute the promotion effect only during the big hit game at a rate of 3/10 in the case of a non-probable big hit (the probability of occurrence is 1/2). The In addition, when it is determined to be a big hit, it is decided to execute the promotion effect only during the big hit game at a rate of 1/10 when the probability variation big hit (the probability of occurrence is 1/2). .

  In other words, if it is decided to win the jackpot, the promotion effect is executed only during the jackpot game at a ratio of (1/2 × 3/10) + (1/2 × 1/10) = 4/20. Decided to do. Then, the rate at which the promotion effect is executed only during the big hit game when it is actually determined to be a promising big hit is (1/2 × 1/10) = 1/20.

  Then, when the promotion effect is executed only during the big hit game, it is (1/20) ÷ (4/20) = 1/4 that is actually controlled in the probability variation state. In other words, when the promotion effect is executed only during the jackpot game, the ratio that is actually controlled to the probability variation state is 1/4, and in this embodiment, this is “only during the jackpot game. The degree of expectation of “execute promotion effect” is expressed as ¼. Note that the degree of expectation of “execution of promotion effect after jackpot game” and the degree of expectation of “execute promotion effect during and after jackpot game” are also calculated based on the same concept.

  In the example shown in FIG. 7C, the expectation when the promotion effect is executed twice (the promotion effect during the jackpot game and the promotion effect after the jackpot game) is one time (only the promotion effect during the jackpot game, Or only promotion effect after big hit game) is higher than expected. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 performs control so that the number of executions of the promotion effect is greater when it is determined that the probability variation big hit is made than when it is decided that the normal big hit.

  In the example shown in FIG. 7C, the degree of expectation when only the promotion effect after the big hit game is executed is higher than the degree of expectation when only the promotion effect during the big hit game is executed.

  In this embodiment, the promotion effect may be executed even when it is determined to be a normal big hit (non-probable big hit), but the promotion effect is decided to be a promising big hit. It may be executed only in such a case.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a program for the special symbol process (step S26) executed by the CPU 56 mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process, processing for controlling the special symbol display 8 is executed.

  In this embodiment, there are a normal state, a probability variation state, and a short time state as the gaming state. Then, when a predetermined transition condition is satisfied, control is performed so as to shift to any one of the three gaming states. Control relating to the transition of the gaming state is performed based on ON / OFF (set / reset) of the probability change flag and the time reduction flag.

  When performing the special symbol process, the CPU 56 turns on the start opening switch 14a for detecting that a game ball has won the start winning opening 14 provided in the game board 6, that is, the game ball If a start winning to win the start winning port 14 has occurred (step S311), the value of the reserved memory counter indicating the reserved memory number is set to 1 on condition that the reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value (step S312). Increase (step S313). Thereafter, any one of steps S300 to S308 is performed according to the internal state (specifically, the value of the special symbol process flag).

  When the value of the hold storage counter is incremented by 1, the CPU 56 extracts the value of the counter for generating the big hit determination random number and the like, and corresponds these to the value of the hold storage counter as the extracted random number value. A process of storing in the storage area in the pending storage buffer is executed. In the reserved storage buffer, the same number of storage areas as the upper limit value of the reserved storage number are secured. Note that a counter and a reserved storage buffer for generating a big hit determination random number and the like are formed in the RAM 55. “Formed in RAM” means an area in the RAM.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): When the CPU 56 is in a state where variable symbol special display can be started, the CPU 56 checks the number of numerical data stored (the number of reserved memory) stored in the reserved memory buffer. The number of numerical data stored in the hold storage buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the hold storage counter. If the count value of the holding storage counter is not 0, it is determined whether or not the display result of the special symbol variable display is the specific display result (whether or not the jackpot is determined). A big hit flag is set for a specific display result. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value according to step S301.

  Special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S301): A stop symbol in the special symbol indicator 8 is determined. On the other hand, if the big hit flag is not set, an effect control command (offset specifying command) for designating that the display result of the variable display device 9 is an outlier symbol is transmitted to the effect control board 80. If the big hit flag is set, it is determined whether or not to shift the gaming state to the probable change state after the big hit game is finished (whether the normal big hit (non-probable big hit) or the probable big hit). When it is determined to be a big hit, it is determined whether or not the promotion effect is executed, and when it is executed, the execution timing is determined. Then, an effect control command (ordinary jackpot designation command) that indicates the normal big hit and can specify the execution timing when the promotion effect is executed or not is transmitted to the effect control board 80. Further, when it is determined that the probable big hit is made, it is determined whether or not the promotion effect is executed, and when it is executed, the execution timing is determined. Then, an effect control command (probability change jackpot designation command) that indicates the probability variation jackpot and can specify the execution timing when the promotion effect is executed or not is transmitted to the effect control board 80. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S302.

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

  Special symbol changing process (step S303): When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the special symbol process timer set in step S302 times out), the internal state (special symbol process flag) is changed. The value is updated according to step S304. In this process, a process for controlling the display state of the special symbol display 8 (special symbol display control process) is also executed.

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): The variable symbol display on the special symbol indicator 8 is stopped and the stop symbol is displayed. In addition, an effect control command (decorative symbol stop designation command) for designating stop of variable display of the decorative symbols on the variable display device 9 is transmitted to the effect control board 80. If the jackpot flag is set, the time from when the jackpot symbol is stopped until the jackpot game starts (the jackpot display time) is set in the jackpot control timer, and then the jackpot control timer is started. Let In addition, an effect control command (a jackpot start designation command) for causing the effect control CPU 101 to execute an effect (fanfare effect) indicating that the jackpot game is started after the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed is transmitted to the effect control board 80. . If the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value according to step S305. Otherwise, the internal state is updated to a value according to step S300.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S305): Control for opening the large winning opening is started. Specifically, the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special variable winning device and open the big winning opening. The number of rounds is counted by a counter. Also, the execution time (round time) of the process for opening the special winning opening is set by the special winning opening control timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value according to step S306.

  Processing for opening a special winning opening (step S306): A process for confirming the closing condition of the special winning opening is performed. When the closing condition for the big prize opening is established, the solenoid 21 is driven to close the special winning prize opening by closing the special variable prize winning device. Also check to see if there are any remaining rounds. When there is a remaining round, the time (interval time) from the end of the round to the start of the next round is set in the big prize opening control timer, and the internal state is updated to a value according to step S305. In addition, when all rounds are completed, an effect control command (hit end command) for causing the effect control CPU 101 to perform an effect (ending effect) for notifying the player that the jackpot gaming state has ended is effected. After transmitting to the control board 80, the internal state is updated to a value according to step S307.

  Big hit end process (step S307): A predetermined flag set / reset process for ending the big hit gaming state is performed. When a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) elapses, the internal state is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 or step S308.

  Big hit end effect processing (step S308): When a predetermined time (for example, 8 seconds) elapses as the execution period of the promotion effect, the internal state is updated to a value corresponding to step S300.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command sent to the effect control board 80. In this embodiment, the effect control command has a 2-byte configuration. The first byte represents MODE (command classification), and the second byte represents EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always “1”, and the first bit (bit 7) of the EXT data is always “0”. Note that such a command form is an example, and other command forms may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.

  In the example shown in FIG. 9, commands 8000 (H) to 8004 (H) are effect control commands (variation) for designating a variation pattern of decorative symbols that are variably displayed on the variable display device 9 in response to variable display of special symbols. Pattern command). The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the variation start. (H) indicates a hexadecimal number.

  The command 8C00 (H) is an effect control command (offset designation command) for designating that the display result of the variable display device 9 is an off symbol.

  Command 8C01 (H) is an effect control command (normally a big hit designation command) indicating that it is determined to be a big hit and has not been decided to shift to a probability change state. Command 8C02 (H) is an effect control command (probability change jackpot designation command) indicating that it is determined to be a big hit and has been decided to shift to a probability change state. These commands are used when no promotion effect is performed. That is, the promotion effect is not performed.

  The command 8C03 (H) is an effect control command (normally big hit and mid-hit promoted effect designation command) indicating that it is determined to be a big hit and not decided to shift to the probability variation state. Command 8C04 (H) is an effect control command (probability change big hit and jackpot promoted effect designation command) indicating that it is decided to make a big hit and it is decided to shift to the probability change state. These commands are used when performing a promotion effect during a big hit game. That is, the promotion effect is performed during the big hit game.

  Command 8C05 (H) is an effect control command (normally big hit and promoted effect designation command after big hit) indicating that it is determined to be a big hit and not decided to shift to the probability variation state. The command 8C06 (H) is an effect control command (probability big hit and promotion effect designation command after big hit) indicating that it is decided to be a big hit and decided to shift to a probability change state. These commands are used when performing a promotion effect after a big hit game. That is, the promotion effect is performed after the big hit game.

  Command 8C07 (H) is an effect control command (ordinary control game command indicating that the game is determined to be a big hit and is not determined to shift to a probable change state) . Command 8C08 (H) is an effect control command (specific change big hit and middle hit / after big hit designation command) indicating that it is determined to be a big hit and is decided to shift to the probability changing state. These commands are used when performing a promotion effect during and after the jackpot game. That is, the promotion effect is performed during the jackpot game, and the promotion effect is performed after the jackpot game.

  Note that the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C08 (H) are effect control commands that make it possible to specify the stop symbol of the decorative design and specify execution / non-execution and execution timing of the promotion effect, so the command 8C01 (H ) To 8C08 (H) are referred to as symbol specifying / effect designating commands.

  In this embodiment, in addition to whether or not to make a promising big hit with one symbol specification / effect designation command, whether or not to give a promotion effect during the jackpot game, and whether to give a promotion effect after the jackpot game Is specified. Therefore, the number of commands related to the promotion effect is reduced.

  Command 8C09 (H) is an effect control command (sudden probability change designation command) for designating sudden probability change. Sudden probability change means that the game is shifted to the probability change state after the big hit game is executed with a small number of times (for example, two times) that the big winning opening is opened. In addition, the opening time of each big winning opening is extremely short compared to the case of the big hit game. Therefore, when the big hit gaming state for an extremely short time is completed, the player changes to the probability changing state, so that the player can feel as if the player has suddenly changed to the probability changing state. In this embodiment, sudden probability variation is not used, but sudden probability variation may also be used.

  Command 8C0A (H) is an effect control command (small hit designation command) for designating small hits. The small hit means that a big hit game, that is, a small hit game is executed with a small number of times (for example, twice) the opening of the big winning opening. In addition, the opening time of each big winning opening is the same as in the case of the big hit. In this embodiment, the small hit is not used, but a small hit may be used.

  The command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating stop of variable display (variation) of decorative symbols on the variable display device 9.

  The command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (power-on designation command) for instructing to display an initial screen on the variable display device 9 when power supply to the gaming machine is started. The command 9200 (H) is transmitted when the game control microcomputer 560 detects that the stored contents of the RAM area that is backed up are saved when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Directing to display the power failure recovery screen (screen for notifying that the game can be continued from the previous state after the power failure after the power failure etc.) on the variable display device 9 This is a control command (power failure recovery designation command). The power-on designation command is a command that is transmitted when the game control microcomputer 560 detects that the storage contents of the RAM area that has been backed up are not saved. That is, it corresponds to the initialization command transmitted in step S13.

  The command 9500 (H) is an effect control command (normal state background designation command) that designates that the background screen of the variable display device 9 is a screen that is predetermined as the background screen in the normal state. The normal state background designation command is also a command indicating that the gaming state has become a normal state. A command 9501 (H) is an effect control command (high probability state background designation command) for designating that the background screen of the variable display device 9 is a predetermined screen as a background screen in a high probability state (probability variation state). It is. The high-probability state background designation command is also a command indicating that the gaming state has become a probable change state. The command 9502 (H) is an effect control command (time-short state background designation command) that designates that the background screen of the variable display device 9 is a screen that is predetermined as the background screen in the time-short state. The short-time state background designation command is also a command indicating that the gaming state has become a short-time state. Command 9502 (H) predetermines the background screen of the variable display device 9 as a background screen in a high probability state (probability change state, but the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 as a normal electric accessory is not shortened). This is an effect control command (high probability state background designation 2 command) that designates that the current screen is to be displayed.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 can determine the gaming state based on the normal state background designation command, the high probability state background designation command, and the time-short state background designation command.

  The short time state means that the variable symbol display time (variation time) of the special symbol (and decoration symbol) on the special symbol indicator 8 (and the variable display device 9) is shorter than the normal state (or the normal state and the probability variation state). The gaming state controlled as described above. In this embodiment, the normal big hit is made during the probability variation state, and after the normal big hit is finished, the time is controlled to be reduced by a predetermined number of fluctuations (for example, 100 times). In the time-short state, the variable symbol display time (variation time) of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is shorter than that in the normal state. Furthermore, in the variable winning device 15, one or both of the opening time and the number of times of opening becomes an advantageous state for the player.

  Command 9F00 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation 1 command) for designating display of the customer waiting demonstration screen on the variable display device 9. The command 9F01 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation 2 command) transmitted when the game control microcomputer 560 detects some error.

  The command A000 (H) is a command that specifies that a big hit game is started, and an effect that specifies that a screen (fanfare screen) for notifying that a big hit has occurred is displayed on the variable display device 9. This is a control command (a big hit start 1 designation command). Command A001 (H) is a command that designates that sudden sudden change has occurred, and is an effect control command (big hit start 2 designation command) that designates execution of sudden sudden change effect.

  The commands A101 to A110 (H) are commands for designating display during the round in the big hit game, and effect control commands (1 to 10) for designating that the open screen of the big prize opening is displayed on the variable display device 9. 1st command during the 16th release). EXT data indicates the number of rounds. Commands A201 to A210 (H) are effect control commands (1 designation command after the 1st to 16th opening) for designating display of the screen after opening of the big prize opening on the variable display device 9. EXT data indicates the number of rounds.

  The command A300 (H) is an effect control command (a jackpot end 1 designation command) for designating that the jackpot end screen (ending screen) when the time is not reduced after the jackpot game is ended is displayed on the variable display device 9. The command A301 (H) is an effect control command (a jackpot end 2 designation command) that designates that the jackpot end screen when the probability change state is set after the jackpot game ends is displayed on the variable display device 9. Command A302 (H) is an effect control command (a jackpot end 3 designation command) for designating that the jackpot end screen is displayed on the variable display device 9 in the case of setting a time saving state after the jackpot game is over.

  Command A303 (H) is an effect control command (displaying a big hit) indicating that the jackpot end screen in the case of changing to the probability change state after the end of the big hit game is displayed on the variable display device 9 and executing a promotion effect after the big hit game ends. 4 designation command). Command A304 (H) is an effect control command (a jackpot end 5 designation command) for designating display of the jackpot end screen at the time of sudden change in probability on the variable display device 9.

  The commands A401 (H) and A402 (H) are commands for designating display during the round in the small hit game, and effect control for designating that the open screen of the big prize opening is displayed on the variable display device 9. This is a command (2 specified commands during the first to second release). EXT data indicates the number of rounds. The commands A501 (H) and A502 (H) are production control commands (two designation commands after the first and second opening) for designating that the screen after the opening of the big winning opening in the small hit game is displayed on the variable display device 9. is there. Command A 800 (H) is a command that specifies that a small hit game is to be started, and displays a screen (small hit fanfare screen) for notifying that a small hit has occurred on the variable display device 9. Is an effect control command (fan hitting designation command for small hits).

  The command C000 (H) is an effect control command (stored information 0 designation command) for designating that the display when displaying the number of reserved memories on the variable display device 9 is a display corresponding to the reserved memory = 0. The commands C001 (H) to C004 (H) are effect control commands (stored information 1) for designating that the display corresponding to the hold storage = 1 to 4 is displayed when the variable storage device 9 displays the hold storage number. ~ Reserved storage 4 designation command).

  In this embodiment, execution / non-execution and execution timing of the promotion effect are specified by the symbol specifying / effect specifying commands of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C08 (H), but other commands such as a variation pattern command are used. In addition, information specifying execution / non-execution and execution timing of the promotion effect may be included. In that case, for example, each variation pattern command, a variation pattern command corresponding to the non-execution of the promotion effect, a variation pattern command corresponding to executing the promotion effect during the jackpot game, and executing the promotion effect after the jackpot game And a variation pattern command corresponding to executing a promotion effect during the big hit game and after the big hit game.

  When the effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the above-described effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31, it responds to the contents shown in FIG. The display state of the variable display device 9 is changed, the display state of the lamp is changed, and the sound number data is output to the sound output board 70. An effect control command other than the effect control command shown in FIG. 9 may also be used.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a variation pattern of special symbols and decorative symbols used in this embodiment. In FIG. 10, “EXT” indicates the second byte of EXT data in the effect control command having a two-byte structure. “Time” indicates the variation time of the special symbol (variable display period of identification information).

  In this example, there are multiple types of variation patterns for special symbols and decorative symbols depending on whether they are out-of-game, jackpot, reach, and reach, etc. Yes. In this embodiment, the reach effect and the promotion effect are executed in the variable display device 9 that is controlled by the effect control CPU 101.

  Here, “normal fluctuation” is a fluctuation pattern without a reach mode. “Normal reach” is a variation pattern with a simple reach mode. “Reach A” is a variation pattern having a reach form different from “normal reach”. Different reach modes mean that variations in different modes (speed, rotation direction, etc.) are performed in the reach variation time, and characters or the like are displayed on the variable display device 9. For example, in “normal”, the reach mode is realized by only one type of change mode, whereas in “reach A”, a reach mode including a plurality of change modes with different speeds and directions of change is realized.

  Further, “reach B” is a variation pattern having a reach form different from “normal reach” and “reach A”. “Reach C” is a variation pattern having a reach form different from “normal reach”, “reach A”, and “reach B”. Note that “normal reach”, “reach A”, “reach B” and “reach C” may or may not be a big hit.

  In the time-short state, for example, a time that is half of the fluctuation time illustrated in FIG. 10 becomes the fluctuation time.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 can start the variation of the special symbol (when the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300, that is, the special symbol display 8 displays the special symbol. In a state where no change display is made and the game is not in the big hit game or the ending effect after the big hit is finished (step S51), the start winning memory number (holding memory number) is confirmed (step S52). . Specifically, the count value of the start winning counter is confirmed.

  If the starting winning memory number is not 0, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = 1 is read and stored in the random number storage buffer of the RAM 55 (step S53), and the starting winning memory number 1 is reduced by 1 and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S54). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the start winning memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in the storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = n−1.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads the jackpot determination random number from the random number storage buffer (step S55), and executes the jackpot determination processing module (step S56). The jackpot determination module is a program that executes a process of comparing a jackpot determination value determined in advance with a random number value for jackpot determination and determining that the jackpot determination value is a jackpot if they match. Here, in the jackpot determination, when the gaming state is a probabilistic state (high probability state), the probability that a big hit will be higher than when the gaming state is a non-probable variation state (normal state and short-time state). Has been. Specifically, a high-probability jackpot determination table in which a large number of jackpot determination values are set in advance and a low-probability jackpot determination table in which the number of jackpot determination values is set smaller than the high-probability jackpot determination table are provided. (See FIG. 7A). Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the gaming state is in a probable state, and when the gaming state is in a probable state, performs a big hit determination process using a high probability big hit determination table, and the gaming state is in a normal state. Is, the jackpot determination process is performed using the low probability jackpot determination table. With such a configuration, the probability of a big hit is higher in the probability variation state than in the normal state.

  Note that whether or not the current game state is the probability variation state is confirmed by confirming whether or not the probability variation flag is set. The probability variation flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, and is reset when the probability variation state is terminated. Specifically, it is determined to win a promising big hit, and is set in a process (a big hit end process) for ending the big hit game started based on the determination.

  When it is determined to be a big hit in the big hit determination process (step S57), the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag (step S58). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S59).

  12 and 13 are flowcharts showing the special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop symbol setting process, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether or not to make a probable big hit (1) and whether or not to execute the promotion effect (2), and determines to execute the promotion effect. In this case, the execution timing (3) of the promotion effect is determined, and an effect control command that can specify the determination results of (1), (2), (3) is sent at the same timing (in this example, one effect control It is configured to control transmission (by command). In the special symbol stop symbol setting process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S90). When the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 reads out the design symbol random number from the random number storage buffer, and derives and displays the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 according to the read out symbol design random number. A slip-off symbol is determined (step S91).

  Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a miss designation command (8C00 (H)) designating that it is a miss to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S92). Specifically, the address of the command transmission table corresponding to the loss designation command is set in the pointer. When the address of the command transmission table corresponding to the miss designation command is set in the pointer, the miss designation command is sent in the effect control command control process (step S28). Hereinafter, “transmit an effect control command” indicates that such processing is performed. The command transmission table is an area of the ROM 54 in which each effect control command illustrated in FIG. 9 is set. The pointer is data used for designating an address where the corresponding command is stored in the area, and is formed in the RAM 55.

  It should be noted that, based on the fact that the address of the command transmission table corresponding to the loss designation command is set in the pointer, the present invention is not limited to the configuration for transmitting the loss designation command in the effect control command control process (step S28). In the process of S92, the configuration may be executed up to the transmission of the deviation designation command. The same applies to the following command transmission processing.

  Thereafter, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S302) (step S105).

  When the jackpot flag is set, the CPU 56 reads the jackpot symbol determining random number from the random number storage buffer, and derives and displays the jackpot symbol ("" on the special symbol display 8 according to the read value of the jackpot symbol determining random number. 3 ”or“ 7 ”) is determined (step S93), and the random number for probability variation determination is read from the random number storage buffer, and either the normal big hit (non-probable big hit) or the probability big hit is determined according to the read random number for probability variation determination. (Step S94), and the process proceeds to step S95.

  In step S95, it is determined whether or not it is a probable big hit, and if it is decided not to be a promiscuous big hit, that is, if it is decided to make a normal big win, the CPU 56 reads the promotion effect determination random number from the random number storage buffer and reads the read promotion. In accordance with the value of the effect determination random number (see the right side of FIG. 7C), it is determined whether or not the promotion effect is to be executed, and if it is determined to be executed, the execution time is determined (step S96). When it is determined that the promotion effect is to be executed during the big hit game, control for transmitting the normal big hit and the big hit middle promotion effect designation command to the microcomputer 100 for effect control is performed (steps S97 and S98). Then, the process proceeds to step S105.

  When it is determined that the promotion effect is to be executed after the big hit game, control for transmitting the normal big hit and the post-hit promotion effect designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed (steps S99 and S100). Then, the process proceeds to step S105. When it is determined that the promotion effect is to be executed during the big hit game and after the big hit game, control for transmitting the normal big hit and the big hit / medium / hit promotion effect designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed (steps S101 and S102). Then, the process proceeds to step S105.

  When it is determined not to execute the promotion effect during the big hit game, control is normally performed to transmit the big hit designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S103). Then, the process proceeds to step S105.

  When it is determined in step S95 that the probability variation big hit is to be made, the CPU 56 sets a probability variation big hit flag (step S111). Further, the promotion effect determination random number is read from the random number storage buffer, and whether or not the promotion effect is to be executed is determined and executed according to the read value of the promotion effect determination random number (see the left side of FIG. 7C). If so, the execution time is determined (step S112). If it is determined that the promotion effect is to be executed during the jackpot game, control is performed to transmit the probability change jackpot and jackpot promotion effect designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (steps S113 and S114). Then, the process proceeds to step S105.

  When it is determined that the promotion effect is to be executed after the big hit game, control is performed to transmit the probability change big hit and the post-hit promotion effect designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (steps S115 and S116). Then, the process proceeds to step S105. When it is determined that the promotion effect is to be executed during the big hit game and after the big hit game, control is performed to transmit the probable big hit and the middle hit / after big hit promotion effect designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (steps S117, S118). Then, the process proceeds to step S105.

  When it is determined not to execute the promotion effect during the big hit game, control is performed to transmit a probability change big hit designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S119). Then, the process proceeds to step S105.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S302) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S201). When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 decides to use the big hit variation pattern determination table (step S202). And the process after step S204 is performed.

  If the big hit flag is not set, it is decided to use the deviation variation pattern determination table (step S203). And the process after step S204 is performed.

  In the big hit variation pattern determination table, variation patterns (“01H”, “02H”, “03H”, “04H”) selected at the big hit shown in FIG. 10 are set, and a plurality of determination values are assigned to each variation pattern. It has been. In addition, in the variation pattern determination table for deviation, variation patterns (“00H”, “01H”, “02H”, “03H”, “04H”) selected at the time of deviation shown in FIG. 10 are set, and a plurality of variation patterns are set for each variation pattern. The judgment value is assigned.

  In step S204, the CPU 56 reads the variation pattern determination random number from the random number storage buffer, and determines the variation pattern according to the read value of the variation pattern determination random number. Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit an effect control command (variation pattern command) designating a variation pattern according to the determined variation pattern (variation time) (step S205).

  Then, the CPU 56 sets the variation time in the special symbol process timer (step S206). Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S303) (step S207).

  15 and 16 are flowcharts showing the jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process. In the big hit ending process, the CPU 56 first. It is confirmed whether or not the special symbol process timer is operating, that is, whether or not the value of the special symbol process timer is not 0 (step S239). If the special symbol process timer is operating, the process proceeds to step S271. If the special symbol process timer is not in operation, the big hit flag is reset (step S240). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the probability variation big hit flag is set (step S241). When the probability variation big hit flag is set, the process proceeds to step S242.

  When the probability variation big hit flag is not set, that is, when it is a normal big hit, it is confirmed whether or not the probability variation flag is set (step S252). When the probability variation flag is set, that is, when the gaming state is the probability variation state, the probability variation flag is reset (step S253) and the time reduction flag is set (step S254). Then, control is performed to transmit the time-short state background designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S255). Further, 100 is set in the hour / short time counter (step S256). Then, control is performed to transmit the jackpot end designation 3 command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S255), and the process proceeds to step S250.

  The time reduction counter is a counter in which the number of times the special symbol can be changed in the time reduction state is set. Therefore, for example, in the special symbol stop process of step S304, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the time reduction counter, and if it is determined to be off, the time reduction flag is reset when the value of the time reduction counter becomes 0. To do.

  If the probability variation flag is not set, it is confirmed whether or not the time reduction flag is set (step S258). When the time reduction flag is set, the time reduction flag is reset (step S259), and control for transmitting the normal state background designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed (step S260). Then, control for transmitting the jackpot end designation 1 command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed (step S261), and the process proceeds to step S250.

  In step S242, the CPU 56 resets the probability variation jackpot flag. In addition, a probability variation flag is set (step S243). Further, when the time reduction flag is set, the time reduction flag is reset (step S244). And control which transmits the high probability state background designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for effect control is performed (step S245).

  The CPU 56 checks whether or not it is decided to execute the promotion effect after the end of the jackpot game (step S246), and if it is determined to execute the promotion effect after the end of the jackpot game, the jackpot end Control for transmitting the designated 4 command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed (step S247). Then, the process proceeds to step S250.

  If it is not decided to execute the promotion effect after the end of the jackpot game, control is performed to transmit the jackpot end designation 2 command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S249). Then, a value corresponding to 2 seconds is set in the special symbol process timer (step S250).

  In step S271, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the special symbol process timer by -1. When the special symbol process timer times out (step S272), it is confirmed whether or not it is decided to execute the promotion effect after the big hit game is over (step S273). If it is decided to execute the promotion effect after the end of the big hit game, a value corresponding to 8 seconds is set to the special symbol process timer (step S274), and the value of the special symbol process flag is set to the big bonus end effect. The value is updated to a value corresponding to the process (step S308) (step S275). If it is not decided to execute the promotion effect after the end of the big hit game, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S276).

  Note that 2 seconds set in step S250 is the time during which the big hit end display is made, and 8 seconds set in step S274 is the time during which the promotion effect after the big hit game is being executed. When the special symbol process timer times out during the big hit end effect processing, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300).

  That is, in this embodiment, when it is decided to execute the promotion effect after the end of the jackpot game, the effect for 10 seconds is executed as the effect after the jackpot game. The second effect is executed.

  Next, the transmission timing of each effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100 and the contents of the re-lottery effect will be described.

  FIG. 17 is a timing diagram showing the transmission timing of the effect control command when the promotion effect is executed during the big hit game. Here, the game control microcomputer 560 is a pre-determination executed before the start of the change (variable display) of the special symbol and the decorative symbol (only the decorative symbol is shown in FIG. 17). Take the case where it is decided to be an example. As shown in FIG. 17, the game control microcomputer 560 sends a probable big hit and jackpot promotion effect designation command and a variation pattern designation command (fluctuation pattern command) at the start of variation of the special symbol and the decorative symbol. To 100. At the end of the variation of the special symbol and the decorative symbol, a symbol confirmation designation command is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100. Further, when the big hit game is finished, the big hit end designation 2 command is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100. In this example, during the jackpot game, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes a jackpot game-related effect (round number display, etc.) and a promotion effect (a jackpot promotion effect) during the jackpot game.

  It should be noted that the transmission order of the symbol specifying / effect designating command and the variation pattern command, such as the probable big hit and jackpot promotion effect designation command, may be first.

  FIG. 18 is a timing chart showing the transmission timing of the effect control command when the promotion effect is executed after the big hit game. Here, the game control microcomputer 560 is a pre-determination executed before the start of the change (variable display) of the special symbol and the decorative symbol (only the decorative symbol is shown in FIG. 18). Take the case where it is decided to be an example. As shown in FIG. 18, the game control microcomputer 560 sends a probable big hit and post-hit promotion effect designation command and a variation pattern designation command (variation pattern command) at the start of variation of the special symbol and decoration symbol. To 100. At the end of the variation of the special symbol and the decorative symbol, a symbol confirmation designation command is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100. Further, when the big hit game is finished, the big hit end designation 4 command is transmitted to the microcomputer 100 for effect control. In this example, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes a promotion effect (promotion effect after jackpot) on the variable display device 9 after the jackpot game ends.

  FIG. 19 is a timing diagram showing the transmission timing of the effect control command when the promotion effect is executed during the jackpot game and after the jackpot game ends. Here, the game control microcomputer 560 is a pre-determination executed before the start of the change (variable display) of the special symbol and the decorative symbol (only the decorative symbol is shown in FIG. 19). Take the case where it is decided to be an example. As shown in FIG. 19, the game control microcomputer 560 produces a probabilistic big hit and a promotion hit designation command and a fluctuation pattern designation command (fluctuation pattern command) at the start of variation of the special symbol and the decoration symbol at the end of the big hit. It transmits to the microcomputer 100 for control. At the end of the variation of the special symbol and the decorative symbol, a symbol confirmation designation command is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100. Further, when the big hit game is finished, the big hit end designation 4 command is transmitted to the microcomputer 100 for effect control. In this example, during the jackpot game, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes the jackpot game-related effects (such as the number of rounds) and the promotion effect in the variable display device 9, and after the jackpot game ends, the variable display device In 9, the promotion effect is executed.

  Next, a specific example of the promotion effect will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a case where a promotion effect is executed during a big hit game. Here, a case where a promotion effect is executed in the seventh round is taken as an example. In FIG. 20, the variable display of the decorative display is executed in the variable display device 9 (see (a) and (b)), and the left and right symbols are stopped together to reach reach (see (c)). The jackpot symbol is derived and displayed (see (d)). Then, after being notified of the big hit (see (e)), an effect related to the big hit game is executed (see (f), (g), (m)). In the seventh round, a notification screen indicating that the promotion effect is executed is displayed (see (h), (i)), and the promotion effect is executed as if the fork lottery machine rotates to discharge the ball. (See (j) to (l)). When the game control microcomputer 560 has decided to win the probability change big hit, basically, a screen (see (k)) on which the ball notifying the probability change is discharged is displayed as the effect result, and the probability change big hit is displayed. If it is decided not to make a change, a screen (see (l)) on which a ball for notifying that there is no probability change is displayed as an effect result.

  FIG. 21 and FIG. 22 are explanatory diagrams showing another example in the case where the promotion effect is executed during the big hit game. Here, a case where a promotion effect is executed in the seventh round is taken as an example. 21 and 22, the variable display device 9 performs variable display of decorative symbols (see (a) and (b)), and the left and right symbols stop together to reach reach (see (c)). Thereafter, the jackpot symbol is derived and displayed (see (d)). Then, after being notified of the big hit (see (e)), an effect related to the big hit game is executed (see (f), (g), (m)). In the seventh round, a notification screen indicating that the promotion effect is executed is displayed (see (h), (i)).

  First, a screen for notifying that two different promotion effects are executed is displayed on each half of the screen of the variable display device 9 (see (j)). In FIG. 22, the promotion effect is executed as if the lottery lottery machine rotates on one screen and the ball is discharged, and the promotion effect is executed as if shooting is performed on the other screen. (See (h)). In the example shown in FIG. 22, an effect result that is not a probable big hit is displayed in the promotion effect (fortune effect) by the fortune lottery machine, and it seems that the promising big effect is in the promotion effect (shooting effect) by shooting. The effect result is displayed (see (l)).

  For example, when the probability variation is a big hit, control is performed so that, for example, an effect result that is a probability variation big hit is displayed in one of the promotion effects. In addition, if it is actually a promising big hit, control is performed so that an effect result as if it was a promising big hit is displayed in both promotion effects, and if it is a normal big hit, the probable big hit in both promotion effects. It is also possible to display an effect result that was not. In that case, when an effect result that is a probable big hit in one of the promotion effects is displayed, the promotion effect may be executed again after the end of another round or the big hit game.

  In FIG. 22, after a screen for notifying that a different promotion effect is executed on each half of the screen of the variable display device 9 is displayed, four different screens are displayed on each 1/4 of the screen of the variable display device 9. An example in which a screen for notifying that the promotion effect is executed is also shown (see (n) and (o)). Then, the promotion effect is executed as if the lottery lottery machine rotates and the ball is discharged on the upper left screen, the promotion effect is executed as if shooting is performed on the upper right screen, the lower left screen The promotion effect (the dice effect) that the dice rolls is executed at, and the promotion effect (the race effect) that the car race is performed on the lower right screen is executed (see (p)). In the example shown in FIG. 22, an effect result that is a probable big hit is displayed in the promotion effect by the car race, and an effect result that is not a probable big hit is displayed in the other types of promotion effect (( q)).

  In the case where the probability variation is actually a big hit, control is performed so that, for example, an effect result that is a probability variation big hit in any one promotion effect is displayed. Further, in the case of actual probability big hit, control may be performed so that an effect result that is probable big hit is displayed in two or more or all promotion effects. In the case of a normal big hit, an effect result that was not a probable big hit in one to three promotion effects may be displayed. In that case, when an effect result that is a probable big hit in one to three promotion effects is displayed, the promotion effect may be executed again after another round or the big hit game ends. In addition, as the number of probability variation effects (1, 2, or 3) in which an effect result that is likely to be a big hit is increased, more promotion effects are executed after the other round or the big hit game ends. You may control to.

  In the example shown in FIG. 22, promotion effect using two screens (see (k), (l)) and promotion effect using four screens (see (p), (q)) are alternatives. However, the other promotion effect may be executed after one promotion effect. Further, any promotion effect may be selected and executed by the player operating the operating means such as the promotion / notice button 120.

  FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in the case where control for notifying the effect result of the promotion effect is performed. In FIG. 23, variable display of the decorative symbols is executed in the variable display device 9 (see (a) and (b)), and the left and right symbols are stopped together to reach reach (see (c)). The jackpot symbol is derived and displayed (see (d)). Then, after being notified of the big hit (see (e)), an effect relating to the big hit game is executed (see (f), (j), (k)). In the first round, a screen that prompts the user to press the promotion / notice button 120 is displayed on the variable display device 9 (see (g)). When the player presses the promotion / notice button 120, a screen for notifying the possibility of a probable big hit is displayed (see (h) and (i)). In this example, the screen illustrated in (h) is displayed at a high rate when it is actually a probable big hit, and the screen illustrated in (i) is displayed at a high rate when it is a normal big hit. . In the seventh round, a notification screen indicating that the promotion effect is executed is displayed (see (l)).

  In each of the above examples, the promotion effect is executed during the seventh round, but the execution in the seventh round is an example, and even if the promotion effect is executed at other times during the big hit game Good. Further, although the notice effect illustrated in FIG. 23 is executed during the first round, the notice effect may be executed at another time during the big hit game.

  FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a promotion effect executed after the end of the big hit game. In the example shown in FIG. 24, after a screen for notifying the end of the big hit game is displayed (see (a)), a notification screen indicating that the promotion effect is executed is displayed (see (b)). In the example shown in FIG. 24, two playing cards are displayed, and a screen that prompts the user to press the promotion / notice button 120 is displayed (see (c)). When the player presses the symbol promotion / notice button 120 (see (d)), if the player is actually a probable big hit, one of the playing cards will turn over, and basically a screen will be displayed informing that it is a probable big hit. (See (e) and (f)). In addition, when it is a normal big hit, the other playing card is turned over and a screen for notifying that it is a normal big hit is displayed (see (g) and (h)). In addition, in FIG. 24, the example in the case of shifting to a time reduction state is shown (refer (h)).

  Further, in this embodiment, the effect time of the promotion effect executed after the end of the big hit game is a fixed time (for example, 8 seconds). If the player does not press the promotion / notice button 120 within the production time, the production control microcomputer 100 independently informs that it is a probability big hit or a normal big hit. To display the screen to be displayed on the variable display device 9. In the example shown in FIG. 24, the promotion / notice button is added to the promotion effect, but the effect control microcomputer 100 independently executes the promotion effect without using the promotion / notice button 120. You may do it.

  FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram illustrating another example of the promotion effect. In the example shown in FIG. 25, notification is made as to whether the gaming state has become a short-time state (see (a)), and after the variable display (variation) is executed several times, the gaming control microcomputer 560 is surely changed. When it is decided to win, the promotion effect is executed during the change of the decorative design (see (c) to (e)). FIG. 25 shows an example in which a promotion effect by an automobile race is executed. Then, for example, at the end of the variation of the decorative symbol, a screen for informing that the probability big hit is displayed (see (f)). In the example shown in FIG. 25, for example, it is determined that the probability variation jackpot is actually set, but the player is not notified that the probability variation jackpot has been reached, and indicates that the time has been shortened. An example in which the interest of a game can be improved by making a temporary notification (actually in a probable state) and performing an effect that is promoted to a probable big hit in the process of progressing the game in a short time state It is.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control CPU 101 mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the start interval of the effect control processing (step S701). Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 shifts to a loop process for checking the timer interrupt flag (step S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the following effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704). Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the variable display device 9 is executed. Further, a random number update process is executed to update the count value of the counter for generating random numbers such as a decorative design determining random number, a temporary stop design determining random number, or a jackpot display design determining random number (step S706). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  27 and 28 are flowcharts showing the command analysis process (step S704) in the main process. The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is stored in the command reception buffer by the command reception interrupt process based on the strobe signal. In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S611). When the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer (step S612).

  If the received effect control command is an effect control command for specifying that it is out of place (outgoing specification command: 8C00 (H)) (step S613), the effect control CPU 101 extracts a decorative design determining random number ( In step S614, based on the extracted decorative design determining random number, the left, middle and right decorative symbols corresponding to the dislocation are determined (step S615). The decorative design determining random numbers are provided corresponding to the left, middle, and right decorative designs. Then, the stop symbol of the determined decorative symbol is stored in the decorative symbol storage area in the RAM (step S616).

  If it is confirmed in step S613 that it is not an effect control command for designating a deviation, the process proceeds to step S617. In step S617, an effect control command (ordinary jackpot designation command: 8C01 (H), normal jackpot and jackpot promotion effect designation command: 8C03 (designating that the received effect control command is a normal big hit (non-probable big hit)). H), normal big hit and big hit promotion promotion designation command: 8C05 (H), normal big hit and big hit middle / big hit promotion designation designation command: 8C07 (H)), or an effect control command that designates a probability variable big hit (Probable variation jackpot designation command: 8C02 (H), Probability variation jackpot and jackpot promotion promotion designation command: 8C04 (H), Probability variation jackpot and jackpot promotion promotion designation command: 8C06 (H), or Probability variation jackpot and jackpot middle / big hit after For promotion effect designation command: 8C08 (H)), for effect control The PU 101 extracts a decorative design determining random number (step S618), and based on the extracted decorative design determining random number, a big hit symbol of the left, middle and right decorative symbols corresponding to the big hit (a decorative design with right and left center aligned). ) Is determined (step S619). Then, the determined big hit symbol of the decorative symbol is stored in the decorative symbol storing area in the RAM (step S620), and the process proceeds to step S626.

  If it is determined in step S617 that the received effect control command is not an effect control command for designating that it is a normal big hit and is not an effect control command for designating that it is a promising big hit, the process proceeds to step S635.

  The processes of steps S626 to S632 are executed when the received effect control command is an effect control command for designating that it is a normal big hit or a probable big hit among the symbol specifying / effect specifying commands. Further, the effect control command that was the object of determination in step S617 is also the object of determination in steps S626 and S631. For example, when the received effect control command is a normal jackpot and jackpot promotion effect designation command, both the determination result of step S617 and the determination result of step S631 are “Y”. If the received effect control command is a normal jackpot and a jackpot promotion / post-hit promotion designation command, the results of the determination in step S617, the determination in step S626, and the determination in step S631 are all “ Y ”.

  In step S626, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the received symbol specifying / effect designating command is an effect control command for designating the promotion effect after the big hit, and when it is the effect control command for designating the post-hit promotion effect. Is set to the promotion effect flag after the big hit (step S627). Further, it is determined whether or not it is an effect control command that also specifies a jackpot promotion effect (that is, a normal jackpot and mid-hit / hit after-hit promotion command designation command or a probable big-hit and mid-hit / hit-hit promotion command designation command). If it is an effect control command that also designates a medium promotion effect, the process proceeds to step S632.

  If it is determined in step S626 that the received symbol specification / effect designation command is not an effect control command for designating the promotion effect after jackpot, the effect control CPU 101 determines that the received symbol specification / effect designation command is a jackpot promotion effect. It is determined whether or not it is an effect control command for designating (step S631). In the case of an effect control command for designating a jackpot promotion effect, a jackpot promotion effect flag is set (step S632).

  If the received effect control command is an effect control command for designating a change pattern (change pattern command: any one of 8000 (H) to 8004 (H)) (step S635), the effect control CPU 101 uses the command. Is stored in the fluctuation pattern data storage area in the RAM (step S636), and the fluctuation pattern reception flag is set (step S637).

  If the received command read in step S612 is another effect control command, the effect control CPU 101 sets a flag corresponding to the received command (step S638).

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs any one of steps S800 to S809 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not an effect control command (fluctuation pattern command) specifying a fluctuation pattern has been received by the command reception interrupt process. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a flag (variation pattern reception flag) indicating that a variation pattern command has been received is set. The variation pattern reception flag is an effect control command (any one of 8000 (H) to 8004 (H)) for designating a decorative pattern variation pattern in the variable display device 9 in the command analysis processing executed by the effect control CPU 101. This is set when it is confirmed (see step S637). When the variation pattern command is received, the stop symbol of the decorative symbol is determined. When distinguishing the stop pattern of the decorative symbol between the normal jackpot and the probabilistic jackpot, when the effect control command indicating that the promotion effect is executed during or after the big hit is not received (big hit When the middle promotion effect flag and the promotion effect flag after jackpot are not set), the decorative symbol is stopped according to the received symbol specification / effect specification command (effect control command for specifying outage, normal jackpot designation, or probable jackpot designation). (For example, an outlier symbol, a normal jackpot symbol (non-probable variation jackpot symbol), a probability variation jackpot symbol) is determined. When an effect control command indicating that a promotion effect is to be executed during or after a big hit is received (when the big hit mid-promotion effect flag or the after-hit promotion effect flag or both flags are set) Even if the big hit designating effect control command is received, the stop symbol is determined as the normal big hit symbol. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to step S801.

  Effect mode determination process (step S801): It is checked whether or not the jackpot promotion effect flag or the jackpot promotion effect flag is set. If at least one of the flags is set, the effect mode of the promotion effect is determined. To do. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to step S802.

  Decoration symbol variation start processing (step S802): Control is performed so that the variation of the ornament symbol is started. In addition, a value corresponding to the variation time is set in the variation time timer, the process table to be used is selected, and the process timer setting value set at the beginning of the process table is set in the process timer. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value according to step S803.

  Decoration symbol variation processing (step S803): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern and monitors the end of the variation time. When the variation time timer times out, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value according to step S804. When the promotion effect as illustrated in FIG. 25 is executed, the effect control CPU 101 performs control for realizing the promotion effect in the decorative symbol changing process.

  Decoration symbol variation stop processing (step S804): Control is performed to stop the variation of the ornament symbol and derive and display the stop symbol (determined symbol) determined in step S800. It should be noted that control for stopping and displaying the decorative symbols may be performed in response to the reception of the decorative symbol stop designation command from the game control microcomputer 560. When the big hit game is played, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value according to step S805. Otherwise, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value according to step S800.

  Big hit display process (step S805): After the end of the variation time, the big hit display is controlled. For example, when a big hit start 1 designation command for designating a big hit start is received, a fanfare effect is executed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to step S806.

  In-round processing (step S806): Display control during round is performed. For example, when any one of the 1st to 16th opening 1 designation commands indicating that the special winning opening is open, the display control of the number of rounds is performed. When one of the 1st to 16th commands after opening indicating that the big prize opening is after being opened (during closing) is received, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value according to step S807.

  Post-round processing (step S807): Display control between rounds is performed. For example, an interval display is performed. If any one of the big hit end 1 designation command to specify the big hit end 5 designation command is received, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to step S808. Otherwise, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value according to step S806.

  Big hit end display process (step S808): Control of the big hit end display after the end of the big hit game is performed. If the big hit promotion effect flag is set, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to step S809. If the big hit promotion effect flag is not set, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to step S800.

  After the jackpot effect processing (step S809): Promotion effect after the jackpot game is executed. Thereafter, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value according to step S800.

  FIG. 30 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the process table. The process table includes data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data are collected. In the display control execution data, each variation mode constituting the variation pattern is described. The process timer set value is set with a change time in the change mode. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table, and performs control for variably displaying the decorative pattern in the variation mode set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value.

  In addition, similar to the control based on the display control execution data, the effect control CPU 101 controls the lighting state of various lamps based on the lamp control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value, and obtains the sound number data. Output to the audio output board 70.

  The process table shown in FIG. 30 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. A process table is prepared for each variation pattern. In addition, a process table corresponding to each jackpot promotion effect and a process table corresponding to the jackpot promotion effect are also stored in the ROM.

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern reception flag is set (step S791). If it has been set, the flag is reset (step S792). Then, the effect control CPU 101 generates the decorative pattern variation pattern based on the design (decorative design (out of symbol), jackpot display design) determined in the command analysis process and the content (variation time) specified by the variation pattern command. Determination is made (step S793). Thereafter, the CPU 101 for effect control changes the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the effect mode determination process (step S801) (step S794).

  FIG. 32 is an explanatory diagram showing random numbers used by the effect control CPU 101 in this embodiment. The jackpot effect type determination random number is a random number for determining the type of promotion effect executed during the jackpot game. The short-term promotion effect determination random number is a random number for determining whether or not the promotion effect as illustrated in FIG. 25 is executed. The notice determination random number is a random number for determining whether or not to execute a notice effect as illustrated in FIG.

  FIG. 33 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the relationship between the big hit effect type determination random number and the big hit effect type determination value. The effect control CPU 101 extracts the count value of the counter for generating the big hit effect type determining random number at a predetermined time and uses the extracted value as the big hit effect type determining random value. The random number for determining the type of effect during the big hit is set in the ROM in association with the data indicating the type of promotion effect. The effect control CPU 101 determines the type of promotion effect according to the data associated with the jackpot effect type determination value that matches the jackpot effect type determination random value. FIG. 33 (A) shows the relationship between the big-hit effect type determination random number and the big-hit effect type determination value in the case where it is determined to be a normal big-hit, and FIG. 33 (B). The relationship between the big hit effect type determination random number and the big hit effect type determination value when it is determined to be a probable big hit is shown.

  In this embodiment, as a type of promotion effect executed during the big hit game, a forklift effect as illustrated in FIG. 20, a shooting effect as illustrated on the right side of FIGS. 22 (k) and (l), As shown in the lower left of FIG. 22 (p), the roller effect, the race effect as illustrated in the lower right of FIG. 22 (p), and the forklift effect and the dice effect on the half screen of the variable display device 9 are executed. Two-division effect (shooting effect + race effect) in which the shooting effect and the race effect are executed on the screen of each half of the variable display device 9 (shooting effect + race effect), the variable display device 9 The forklift effect, the shooting effect, the shooting effect, and the race effect are executed on the screen of 1/4 each. The forklift effect is a four-division effect (forklift is the upper left) executed on the upper left, and the variable display device 9 is 1/4. Each screen smells Lottery director, shooting effect, shooting effect and race effect is executed, the race effect is divided into four effect (race top left) performed in the upper left.

  Further, the random number for determining the effect type during the big hit is any one of 0 to 17 (any of 18 types). For example, it is decided to execute the fortune effect at a ratio of 4/18 at the time of a non-probable big hit (its occurrence probability is 1/2). In addition, when the probable big hit (the probability of occurrence is ½), it is decided to execute the fortune effect at a rate of 1/10.

  That is, it is determined to execute the fortune effect at a ratio of (1/2 × 4/18) + (1/2 × 1/18) = 5/36. Then, the rate at which the fortune effect is executed when it is actually determined to be a probable big hit is (1/2 × 1/18) = 1/36.

  Then, when the lucky effect is executed, it is (1/36) ÷ (5/36) = 1/5 that is actually controlled to the probability variation state. In other words, when the forklift effect is executed, the ratio that is actually controlled to the probable state is 1/5, and in this embodiment, the expectation level of the forklift effect is 1/5. It expresses. Note that the expected degree of other promotion effects is also calculated based on the same concept.

  As shown in FIG. 33, the degree of expectation varies depending on the type of promotion effect during the big hit. In the example shown in FIG. 33, the degree of expectation when the two-split effect is executed is higher than when the single promotion effect is executed. In addition, the degree of expectation when the four-split effect is executed is higher than when the two-split effect is executed. The degree of expectation differs depending on the type in the two-split effects, and the degree of expectation varies depending on the type in the four-split effects.

  In this embodiment, one promotion effect is executed during the big hit game (for example, the seventh round), but the promotion effect is executed a plurality of times (for example, in a plurality of rounds) during the big hit game. You may do it. In that case, when it is determined to be a probable big hit, it is preferable to perform control so that more promotion effects are executed. Specifically, an effect count table (a table used at the time of a normal big hit and a table used at the time of a probable big hit) is provided in which a plurality of types of the effect counts are set together with a determination value, and the effect control means determines the number of effects The number of times for determining the number of times is extracted, and the number of effects corresponding to the determination value matching the value of the number of random numbers for determining the number of times is selected from the table. In the table used for the probable big hit, a larger number of determination values are set corresponding to the number of productions than the table used for the normal big hit. In the case of executing a plurality of promotion effects, “success” is notified in the final time, but it may be executed in the middle. Further, when the promotion effect is executed a plurality of times during the big hit game, the promotion effect having the same degree of expectation may be executed. In this case, for example, the same promotion effect is executed a plurality of times, or different promotion effects but the same expectation level (for example, the dice effect and the race effect shown in FIG. 33) are executed.

  In this embodiment, the effect control microcomputer 100 determines the type of promotion effect, but the game control microcomputer 560 may determine the type of promotion effect. When the game control microcomputer 560 determines the type of promotion effect, the table in which data indicating the type of jackpot promotion effect shown in FIG. 33 is set in the game control microcomputer 560. And CPU56 performs the process of step S812-S815 and step S822-S823 shown in FIG. 34 by the special symbol stop symbol setting process (refer FIG. 12), for example. Further, when there are a plurality of types of promotion effects after the big hit, the type of promotion effect is determined by lottery using random numbers, for example. The effect control command includes a command indicating the type of promotion effect, and the game control microcomputer 560 transmits an effect control command indicating the determined type of promotion effect to the effect control microcomputer 100. The production control microcomputer 100 does not have to execute the processes of steps S812 to S815 and steps S822 to S823 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing an effect mode determination process (step S801) in the effect control process. In the effect mode determination process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not the jackpot promotion effect flag is set (step S811). If the big hit middle promotion effect flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S821.

  If the jackpot promotion effect flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 extracts a jackpot effect type determination random number (step S812). Then, the value of the extracted random number for determining the effect type during the big hit is compared with the value type determination value during the big hit effect. The promotion effect of the type corresponding to the jackpot effect type determination value (see FIG. 33) that matches the value of the big hit effect type determination random number is determined as the promotion effect to be executed (step S813). Note that the data indicating the type of promotion effect as shown in FIG. 33 (A) associated with the big-hit effect type determination value is stored in the ROM as a normal big-hit effect type determination table in the ROM. Data indicating the type of promotion effect as shown in FIG. 33 (B) associated with the determination value is stored in the ROM as a probability variation big hit effect type determination table in the ROM. The effect control CPU 101 determines the type of promotion effect to be executed using the probability variation big hit effect type determination table when receiving the symbol specifying / effect designation command for designating the probability variable big hit. In addition, when the symbol specifying / effect designating command for designating a normal jackpot is received, the type of promotion effect to be executed is determined using the normal jackpot effect type determination table.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 extracts a notice determination random number (step S814). Then, it is determined whether or not to execute a notice effect (see FIG. 23) based on the extracted value of the notice decision random number (step S815). For example, a determination value corresponding to executing the notice effect is stored in the ROM. The effect control CPU 101 determines to execute the notice effect when the determination value that matches the value of the random number for notice determination is stored in the ROM. A plurality of tables corresponding to the type of promotion effect may be provided, and the degree of expectation may be different for each table (the number of determination values is different). If it is decided to execute the notice effect, the notice execution flag is set (steps S816 and S817). Then, the process ends.

  In step S821, it is confirmed whether or not a probability variation jackpot designation command (8C02 (H)) has been received. If the probable big hit designation command has been received, a short-time promotion effect determination random number is extracted (step S822). Then, based on the extracted random number for determining the short time promotion effect, it is determined whether or not the promotion effect as illustrated in FIG. 25 (hereinafter referred to as a short time promotion effect) is executed (step S823). For example, the determination value corresponding to executing the time-shortened promotion effect is stored in the ROM as a table. The effect control CPU 101 determines to execute the time promotion effect when the determination value that matches the value of the random number for determining the time promotion effect is stored in the ROM. If it is decided to execute the time-shortage promotion effect, the time-shortage effect execution flag is set (steps S824 and S825). In this embodiment, the short-time promotion effect is independently executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 when the game control microcomputer 560 determines that the jackpot promotion effect is not executed. However, the short-time promotion effect may be one of the promotion effects selected when the game control microcomputer 560 determines to execute the jackpot promotion effect. In that case, the data indicating the type of promotion effect shown in FIG. 33 may also include data indicating the short-time promotion effect.

  Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation start process (step S802) (step S826).

  In this embodiment, there is one type of promotion effect executed after the big hit game (see FIG. 24). However, there may be a plurality of types of promotion effects executed after the big hit game. In this case, for example, the effect control CPU 101 extracts a big hit effect type determining random number, and selects the type of promotion effect to be executed based on the extracted value of the big hit effect type determining random number.

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol variation start process (step S802) in the effect control process. In the decorative symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 first selects a process table corresponding to the decorative symbol variation pattern to be used (step S831). In addition, when the time reduction effect execution flag is set, the process table according to the time reduction promotion effect (refer FIG. 25) is selected. Moreover, the time-short promotion effect as illustrated in FIG. 25 is executed over a plurality of variable displays. Then, the effect control CPU 101 resets the time reduction effect execution flag when executing the effect as shown in FIGS. 25 (e) and 25 (f). In addition, it is possible to determine in advance how many times the variable display is performed as shown in FIGS. 25 (e) and 25 (f), for example, by random lottery. It may be.

  Then, the process timer setting value of the process data 1 in the selected process table is set in the process timer and the process timer is started (step S832). Next, the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device (variable display device 9, various lamps, speaker 27) according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1). (Step S833). For example, a control signal is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image corresponding to the variation pattern on the variable display device 9. Further, a control signal is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform various lamp on / off control. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27.

  Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 starts a variation time timer (a timer according to the variation time of the decorative symbol) (step S834), and sets the value of the effect control process flag to the value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation process (step S803). (Step S835).

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the decorative symbol variation process (step S803) in the effect control process. In the decorative symbol variation process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the variation time timer has timed out (step S841). If the variation time timer has timed out, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation stop process (step S804) (step S842).

  If the variation time timer has not timed out, the effect control CPU 101 decrements the process timer by 1 (step S843) and decrements the variation time timer by 1 (step S844). If the process timer has timed out, the process data is switched (steps S845 and S846). That is, the process data (display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data) set next in the process table is switched. Then, the process timer setting value in the next process data is set in the process timer and the process timer is started (step S847). Further, the control of the effect device (variable display device 9, various lamps, speaker 27) is executed according to the contents of the next process data (step S848).

  In the decorative symbol variation stop processing, the effect control CPU 101 derives and displays the decorative symbol stop symbol determined in the command analysis processing on the variable display device 9.

  37 and 38 are flowcharts showing the mid-round processing (step S806). In the in-round processing, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not an n-th (n is any of 1 to 16) opening designation command has been received (step S851). When the designation command is received after the nth release, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the round post-processing (step S807) (step S852).

  If the designation command has not been received after the nth release, it is confirmed whether or not the notice start screen (see FIG. 23G) has been displayed on the variable display device 9 (step S853). If the notice start screen is displayed, it is confirmed whether or not the promotion / notice button 120 has been pressed (step S854). When the promotion / notice button 120 is pressed, the effect control CPU 101 extracts a notice type determination random number (step S855). Then, a notice type (see FIGS. 23 (h) and (i)) is determined based on the extracted notice type determination random number (step S856). Furthermore, the notice screen of the determined type is displayed on the variable display device 9 (step S857).

  When the notice start screen is not being displayed, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the in-round processing has been started based on the reception of the first opening designation command (step S861). If it is started based on the reception of the first opening designation command, the first (first round) opening screen is displayed on the variable display device 9 (step S862). Note that the opening screen of the second transition is displayed under the control of the effect control CPU 101 when an n-th (n is any of 2 to 16) after-opening designation command is received in the post-round processing.

  Then, the production control CPU 101 checks whether or not the advance notice flag is set (step S863). If it is set, the notice execution flag is reset (step S864), and a notice start screen (see FIG. 23G) is displayed on the variable display device 9 (step S865).

  When the processing during the round is not started based on the reception of the first opening designation command, that is, in the second round or later, the effect control CPU 101 performs the promotion effect (the promotion executed during the big hit game). It is confirmed whether or not (production) is being executed (step S866). If not, the process moves to step S874.

  If the promotion effect is being executed, the process timer is decremented by 1 (step S867). If the process timer has timed out, the process data is switched (steps S868 and S869). That is, the process data (display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data) set next in the process table is switched. Then, the process timer set value in the next process data is set in the process timer and the process timer is started (step S870). Further, the control of the effect device (variable display device 9, various lamps, speaker 27) is executed according to the contents of the next process data (step S871). In this embodiment, the promotion effect ends within one round period. Therefore, in the process table, data indicating an effect result (notification of probability variation big hit or notification of non-probability big hit) is set in the last process data. That is, by performing control according to the process table, the effect result is displayed on the variable display device 9 in the last part of the effect period of the promotion effect within one round period.

  In step S874, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not it is the seventh round. If it is the seventh round, it is confirmed whether or not the jackpot promotion effect flag is set (step S875). If it is set, the jackpot promotion effect flag is reset (step S876), and a process table corresponding to the determined type of jackpot promotion effect is selected (step S877). Then, the process timer set value of the process data 1 in the selected process table is set in the process timer and the process timer is started (step S878). Next, the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device (variable display device 9, various lamps, speaker 27) according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1). (Step S879).

  When it is decided to execute the jackpot promotion effect by the control as described above, the jackpot promotion effect is started at the beginning of the seventh round. A specific jackpot promotion effect is executed when the effect control CPU 101 advances control according to the process data set in the process table.

  Further, the process tables are prepared according to the respective jackpot promotion effects, but there are two types of process tables according to the difference in the effect results even for the same jackpot promotion effect. For example, taking the jackpot promotion effect as exemplified in FIG. 20 as an example, the effect result is used when the screen is such that a probable big hit is reported (success is notified) as shown in FIG. 20 (k). A process table and a process table used when the effect result is a screen for informing a normal jackpot (notifying failure) as shown in FIG. 20L are provided separately.

  Then, when the promotion effect after the big hit is not executed, that is, when only the promotion effect during the big hit is executed, the production control CPU 101 selects the process table for informing the success when it is actually the probable big hit, Usually, when it is a big hit, the process table for reporting the failure is selected.

  Further, when the promotion effect after the big hit is also executed in the process of step S877, the process table for reporting the failure is always selected regardless of whether or not it is actually a probable big hit. That is, when the promotion effect after the big hit is also executed, the production result of the promotion effect during the big hit is always a screen for notifying the failure (screen not notifying the promising big hit). Whether or not the promotion effect after jackpot is executed is determined by whether or not the promotion effect flag after jackpot is set.

  FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end display process (step S808) in the effect control process. In the jackpot end display process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the jackpot end display time timer for determining the display time of the screen for informing the end of the jackpot game is in operation (step 881). If the jackpot end display time timer is not operating, it is checked whether or not a jackpot end designation command (A300 (H) to A304 (H): see FIG. 9) is received (step S882). If received, a screen for notifying the end of the jackpot game is displayed on the variable display device 9 (step S883), and a value corresponding to the jackpot end display time (for example, 2 seconds) is set in the jackpot end display time timer. (Step S884).

  If the jackpot end display time timer is operating, the effect control CPU 101 decrements the value of the jackpot end display time timer by 1 (step S885). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the jackpot end display time timer has timed out (step S886). If timed out, it is confirmed whether or not the promotion effect flag after jackpot is set (step S887). If not set, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S894).

  When the jackpot promotion effect flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 resets the jackpot promotion effect flag (step S888). In addition, a process table corresponding to the promotion effect after the big hit is selected (step S889).

  In addition, although the thing according to the promotion effect after jackpot is prepared as a process table, there are two types of process tables according to the difference in the production result. For example, taking the jackpot promotion effect as exemplified in FIG. 24 as an example, the effect result is used when the screen is such that the probable big hit is reported (success is notified) as shown in FIG. A process table and a process table used when the effect result is a screen for informing a normal jackpot (notifying failure) as shown in FIG. 24H are provided separately.

  Then, a value corresponding to the promotion effect time after jackpot (for example, 8 seconds) is set in the after-hit effect time timer (step S890). Further, the process timer setting value of the process data 1 in the selected process table is set in the process timer, and the process timer is started (step S891). Next, the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device (variable display device 9, various lamps, speaker 27) according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1). (Step S892). Thereafter, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect process after the big hit (step S809) (step S893).

  FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing the after-hit effect processing (step S809). In the after-hit effect processing, the effect control CPU 101 decrements the value of the after-hit effect time timer by 1 (step S901). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the after-hit effect time timer has timed out (step S902). When the after-hit effect time timer times out, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S903).

  If the after-hit effect time timer has not timed out, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the process timer (step S904). If the process timer has timed out, the process data is switched (steps S905 and S906). That is, the process data (display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data) set next in the process table is switched. Then, the process timer set value in the next process data is set in the process timer, and the process timer is started (step S907). Further, the control of the rendering device (variable display device 9, various lamps, speaker 27) is executed according to the contents of the next process data (step S908).

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the promotion / notice button 120 has been pressed (step S909). When the promotion / notice button 120 is pressed, it is confirmed whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 7 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the promotion effect after the big hit (step S910). The confirmation is executed by, for example, the value of the after-hit effect time timer.

  If a predetermined time has passed since the promotion effect after the big hit is started, the effect result (see FIGS. 24F and 24H) is displayed on the variable display device 9 (step S911). If the production result is determined to be a promising big hit, it is a screen (FIG. 24 (f)) that informs the success, and if it is decided to make a normal big hit, it fails. It is a screen (FIG. 24 (h)) which alert | reports. If the time point at which the promotion / notice button 120 is pressed is before a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the promotion effect after the big hit, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether the success or failure has occurred until the predetermined time elapses. It is preferable to produce a display effect so that a playing card (see FIGS. 24 (e) and 24 (g)) for notifying the user is shaken or rotated.

  Further, when the promotion / notice button 120 is not pressed, for example, the effect result based on the process data set in the process table is displayed on the variable display device 9 immediately before the effect time of the promotion effect after the big hit elapses. . That is, when it is decided to make a promising big hit, a screen (FIG. 24 (f)) for notifying success is displayed, and when it is decided to make a normal big hit, a failure is indicated. A screen for notification (FIG. 24H) is displayed.

  As described above, in the above embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 specifies the information on whether or not to perform the promotion effect and the execution time when performing the promotion effect in the symbol specification / effect designation command. Since information including possible information and (promotion information) is transmitted, the number of commands related to the promotion effect can be reduced. Further, information indicating whether or not to perform the promotion effect and information that can specify the execution time when performing the promotion effect may be included in the variation pattern command and transmitted. Since the promotion information is included in the symbol specification / effect designation command and the variation pattern command, it is not necessary to confirm whether or not the promotion information has been transmitted.

  In the above embodiment, only one special symbol display 8 is provided. However, the present invention can be applied to a case where a plurality of (for example, two) special symbol displays are provided. it can.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the effect control command is transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 that controls the variable display device 9, but the main board 31 controls the light emitter and sound generating means. The effect control command may be transmitted to the board on which the computer is mounted, and the effect control command may be transmitted from the board to the effect control board 80 that controls the variable display device 9.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine of the above embodiment can be given a predetermined game value to a player mainly when the special symbol stop symbol variably displayed on the variable display unit based on the start winning prize becomes a predetermined symbol. A pachinko machine that can be given a predetermined gaming value to a player when there is a prize in a predetermined area of an electric game that is released based on a start prize, or a start prize The present invention can be applied even to a pachinko gaming machine in which a predetermined right is generated or continued when a winning is given to a predetermined electric combination that is released when a stop symbol of a variably displayed symbol becomes a predetermined symbol combination . Furthermore, the present invention can also be applied to slot machines such as coins (medals), etc., without being limited to pachinko gaming machines in which the game medium is a game ball. Furthermore, the present invention can also be applied to a slot machine or the like in which a game ball is used as a game medium instead of a coin.

  The present invention can be applied to a game such as a pachinko game machine, and can be applied to a game of a gaming machine in which the game state can be controlled to a special game state such as a probability change state.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a relay board | substrate, an effect control board, a lamp driver board | substrate, and an audio | voice output board | substrate. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the main process which the microcomputer for game control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 2 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the relationship with jackpot determination value, probability variation determination value, and promotion effect determination value, and promotion effect. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol stop symbol setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol stop symbol setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a jackpot end process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a jackpot end process. It is a timing diagram showing the transmission timing of the effect control command when the promotion effect is executed during the big hit game. It is a timing diagram showing the transmission timing of the effect control command when the promotion effect is executed after the big hit game. It is a timing diagram showing the transmission timing of the effect control command when the promotion effect is executed during the big hit game and after the big hit game ends. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of a promotion effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of a promotion effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of a promotion effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows a notice effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of a promotion effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of a promotion effect. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the main process which the microcomputer for production control performs. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control process processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a process table. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variation pattern command reception waiting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the random number which CPU for production control uses. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the relationship between the random number for big hit effect type determination, and the big hit effect type determination value. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a production | presentation aspect determination process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a decoration design change start process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process during decoration design change. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process during a round. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process during a round. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a big hit end display process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of effect processing after the end of big hit.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Special symbol display 9 Variable display device 14 Start winning opening 17 Variable winning device 31 Main board 80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 560 Game control microcomputer

Claims (11)

A specific game state having a variable display unit for variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them and deriving and displaying the display result, and advantageous for the player when the specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display unit A transition to a special gaming state in which the variable display of identification information is more likely to result in the specific display compared to the normal state when a predetermined transition condition is satisfied,
Game control means for controlling the progress of the game;
Production control means for controlling the display state of the variable display unit based on a command from the game control means,
The game control means includes
Whether or not to execute a notification effect for notifying whether or not the transition condition is satisfied, whether or not the transition condition is satisfied, and that the transition condition is satisfied at a predetermined time after the transition to the specific game state Predetermining means for determining a heel before a display result is derived and displayed on the variable display unit;
When the pre-determining means decides to execute the notification effect, an effect type selection unit that selects a type of the notification effect to be executed from among a plurality of types of the notification effects;
A variable display command capable of specifying a variable display time from the start of variable display of identification information in the variable display unit to the display and display of the display result based on the determination result of the prior determination means, and the variable display A command transmission means for transmitting a display result command that can identify a display result derived and displayed in the section,
Whether the command transmission means executes a notification effect informing the variable display command or the display result command that the transition condition is established at a predetermined time after the transition to the specific gaming state, and the effect type Including information that can identify the type of the notification effect selected by the selection means,
The production control means includes
Based on the variable display command transmitted by the command transmission means, variable display of identification information is executed in the variable display unit, and when the variable display time specified by the variable display command has elapsed, the variable is specified by the display result command. Variable display execution means for deriving and displaying identification information
A notification effect executing means for executing the notification effect at the predetermined time when the variable display command or the display result command transmitted by the command transmission means indicates execution of the notification effect; Including
When the predetermining unit determines that the transition condition is satisfied, the effect type selecting unit determines that the notification type of the specific type is greater than when the predetermining unit determines not to satisfy the transition condition. Are selected at a higher rate than the other notification effects. A specific game state having a variable display unit for variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them and deriving and displaying the display result, and advantageous for the player when the specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display unit A transition to a special gaming state in which the variable display of identification information is more likely to result in the specific display compared to the normal state when a predetermined transition condition is satisfied,
Game control means for controlling the progress of the game;
Production control means for controlling the display state of the variable display unit based on a command from the game control means,
The game control means includes
Whether or not to execute a notification effect for notifying whether or not the transition condition is satisfied, whether or not the transition condition is satisfied, and that the transition condition is satisfied at a predetermined time after the transition to the specific game state Predetermining means for determining a heel before a display result is derived and displayed on the variable display unit;
A variable display command capable of specifying a variable display time from the start of variable display of identification information in the variable display unit to the display and display of the display result based on the determination result of the prior determination means, and the variable display A command transmission means for transmitting a display result command that can identify a display result derived and displayed in the section,
The command transmission means can specify whether or not to execute a notification effect informing the variable display command or the display result command that the transition condition is satisfied at a predetermined time after transition to the specific gaming state. Information including
The production control means includes
Based on the variable display command transmitted by the command transmission means, variable display of identification information is executed in the variable display unit, and when the variable display time specified by the variable display command has elapsed, the variable is specified by the display result command. Variable display execution means for deriving and displaying identification information
When the variable display command or the display result command transmitted by the command transmission unit indicates that the notification effect is to be executed, the notification effect execution unit that executes the notification effect at the predetermined time;
When the variable display command or the display result command indicates that the notification effect is to be executed, an effect type selecting unit that selects the type of the notification effect to be executed from among the plurality of types of the notification effect. ,
When the predetermining unit determines that the transition condition is satisfied, the effect type selecting unit determines that the notification type of the specific type is greater than when the predetermining unit determines not to satisfy the transition condition. Are selected at a higher rate than the other notification effects. A specific game state having a variable display unit for variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them and deriving and displaying the display result, and advantageous for the player when the specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display unit A transition to a special gaming state in which the variable display of identification information is more likely to result in the specific display compared to the normal state when a predetermined transition condition is satisfied,
Game control means for controlling the progress of the game;
Production control means for controlling the display state of the variable display unit based on a command from the game control means,
The game control means includes
Whether or not to execute a notification effect for notifying whether or not the transition condition is satisfied, whether or not the transition condition is satisfied, and that the transition condition is satisfied at a predetermined time after the transition to the specific game state Predetermining means for determining a heel before a display result is derived and displayed on the variable display unit;
A variable display command capable of specifying a variable display time from the start of variable display of identification information in the variable display unit to the display and display of the display result based on the determination result of the prior determination means, and the variable display A command transmission means for transmitting a display result command that can identify a display result derived and displayed in the section,
The command transmission means can specify whether or not to execute a notification effect informing the variable display command or the display result command that the transition condition is satisfied at a predetermined time after transition to the specific gaming state. Information including
The production control means includes
Based on the variable display command transmitted by the command transmission means, variable display of identification information is executed in the variable display unit, and when the variable display time specified by the variable display command has elapsed, the variable is specified by the display result command. Variable display execution means for deriving and displaying identification information
When the variable display command or the display result command transmitted by the command transmission means indicates that the notification effect is to be executed, a plurality of the notification effects are simultaneously executed in the effect display unit at the predetermined time. And a divided notification effect executing means. The division notification effect executing means provides a plurality of notification effects in the effect display unit when the prior determination means determines that the transition condition is satisfied, compared to when the prior determination means determines that the transition condition is not satisfied. The game machine according to claim 3, wherein the game machine is executed at a location. The number of executions of the notification effect is increased when the prior determination unit determines that the transition condition is satisfied, compared to when the prior determination unit determines not to satisfy the transition condition. A gaming machine according to any one of the above. When the pre-determining means decides to establish the transition condition, the notification is made both in the specific gaming state and after the end of the specific gaming state, compared to when the pre-deciding means determines not to establish the transition condition. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a rate at which an effect is executed is increased. The variable display execution means is a variable display command or a display result command when stop identification information corresponding to the established transition condition is determined on the condition that the notification effect is determined to be executed. 2. When the information indicating that it is determined to notify that the transition condition is established by the notification effect is included in the display, identification information other than the stop identification information is derived and displayed on the variable display unit. The gaming machine according to claim 6. As a variable display command or a display result command, a command including information that can specify that the notification effect is to be executed during the specific gaming state, and a command that includes information that can specify that the notification effect is to be executed after the specific gaming state is ended. Is established,
The notification effect executing means or the divided notification effect executing means is configured such that when the variable display command or the display result command includes information that can specify that the notification effect is executed after the end of the specific gaming state, the variable display command or Even if the display result command includes information indicating that the transition condition is established by the notification effect, it indicates that the transition condition is satisfied when the notification effect is executed during the specific gaming state. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein no effect is provided as a result of notification. Provided with operation means for outputting an operation signal according to the player's operation,
The production control means
9. A notice effect means for displaying on the variable display section a notice display capable of recognizing that a notice effect is executed in response to an operation signal output from the operation means. A gaming machine according to any one of the above. The production control means
A specific game state end effect execution means for executing a specific game state end effect for notifying the end of the specific game state different from the notification effect in the variable display unit;
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein an execution time of the specific gaming state end effect is shorter than an execution time of the notification effect. The game control means
A table used when the pre-determining means determines that the transition condition is satisfied, and a table indicating when the transition condition is satisfied, in which data indicating a plurality of types of notification effects and predetermined numerical values are set in association with each other;
A table used when the pre-determining means determines that the transition condition is not satisfied, and is a transition condition non-establishment table set by associating data indicating a plurality of types of notification effects and predetermined numerical values. When,
Numeric data for selection updating means for updating the numeric data for selection within a predetermined range;
Selecting numerical data extraction means for extracting the numerical data for selection,
The effect type selection means selects either the transition condition satisfaction table or the transition condition failure satisfaction table according to the determination result of the prior determination means, and the selected transition condition satisfaction table or the transition The gaming machine according to any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein the notification effect corresponding to the numerical data for selection extracted by the numerical data extraction unit for selection is selected from a table when the condition is not satisfied.

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