JP2007244512A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To allow a player to more easily determine whether the play should be continued or not when a lottery for downgrade is executed, and to enhance the sense of expectancy of the player when symbol images are displayed in a specific mode such as a ready-to-win state. <P>SOLUTION: The ready-to-win state is always generated when the mode is shifted and downgraded from a "probability variable mode" to a "normal mode" (Fig. 5(a)), or when a "jackpot" is made in the game in which the mode is shifted from the "probability variable mode" to the "normal mode" (Fig. 5(b)), or when the "jackpot" is made in the "probability variable mode" (Fig. 5(c)). When the " jackpot" is not made in the "probability variable mode", the ready-to-win state is not generated either. Accordingly, when the ready-to-win state is generated while the mode is being shifted to the "probability variable mode", either the mode is downgraded from the "probability variable mode" to the "normal mode", or the "jackpot" is made. The player can determine whether the play should be terminated or not based on whether the "ready-to-win" state is generated or not after the mode is shifted to the "probability variable mode". <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and is particularly suitable for use in performing a falling lottery while a lottery is being performed using a high probability lottery table.

  In a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, when a game ball wins at a start winning opening, a lottery is performed and a symbol image is variably displayed. Based on the result of the lottery, the symbol image that is variably displayed is stopped and displayed. A special game is executed when the symbol image that has been won by the lottery and is stopped and displayed becomes a specific symbol (a jackpot symbol).

  In the game after executing the special game, a lottery is performed using a high-probability lottery table with a higher probability than usual (in this way, a lottery is performed using the high-probability lottery table. Or called probable). Conventionally, the probability variation game is continued until a lottery using a high probability lottery table is won or a predetermined number of games are executed. In this way, the player can grasp the period during which the probability variation game is performed. Therefore, it is difficult to give the player a sense of tension during the probability variation game.

  Therefore, during the probability variation game, a lottery to determine whether or not to move the lottery table from the high probability lottery table to the low probability lottery table is performed. A technique for transferring a table to a low-probability lottery table has been proposed (see Patent Document 1). With such a technique, it is possible to prevent the player from knowing when the probability variation game will end, so it is possible to give a tension to the player during the probability variation game.

JP 2003-169922 A

However, in the conventional technique described above, the player cannot predict at all when the probability variation game will end. Therefore, the player does not know whether the high probability lottery table is used or the low probability lottery table is used, and it is difficult to determine whether or not the game can be continued as it is.
The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and when the falling lottery is being performed, it is easy for the player to determine whether or not to continue the game, It is an object to improve the player's expectation when a symbol image is displayed in a specific manner.

In order to achieve such an object, the invention described in claim 1 is based on lottery means for performing a lottery based on a winning of a game ball in a start winning port formed on a game board, and a game ball in the start winning port. Is used by the lottery means and the effect display means for starting the variable display of the symbol image when the prize is won and displaying the combination of the symbol images when the variable display is stopped as the effect reflecting the lottery result by the lottery means. A high-probability lottery table, a lottery table used by the lottery means, a low-probability lottery table having a winning probability lower than the high-probability lottery table, and a lottery table used by the lottery means, Fall lottery means for performing a fall lottery to determine whether or not to change from the probability lottery table to the low probability lottery table, and the lottery means is moved by the fall lottery means. When the lottery is performed, the lottery is performed using the high probability lottery table or the low probability lottery table according to the lottery result by the falling lottery means, and the falling lottery means is not performed. In the case, the lottery is performed using the low-probability lottery table, and in the game in which the falling lottery is performed by the falling lottery means, the effect display means is a case where the falling lottery is won and the high-probability lottery table The symbol image is displayed in a specific manner only when a lottery by the lottery means using is won.
In such a configuration, in a game in which a falling lottery has been performed, the symbol image is displayed in a specific manner only when the falling lottery is won and the lottery using the high probability lottery table is won. That is, when winning the fall lottery and shifting from the high probability lottery table to the low probability lottery table, the symbol image is displayed in a specific manner. Further, even when a lottery by the lottery means using the high probability lottery table is won, the symbol image is displayed in a specific manner. As a result, if the symbol image is displayed in a specific manner, it will be either a big hit or a fall, so whether or not the game should be continued when the symbol image is displayed in a specific manner The determination can be made easier for the player to make. Therefore, it is possible to increase the feeling of tension given to the player when the symbol image is displayed in a specific manner.

Further, the invention according to claim 2 is formed in the game board, special game transition judging means for judging whether or not to shift the game from the normal game to the special game based on the result of the lottery by the lottery means. A movable accessory that operates to guide the game ball to the winning prize opening, and the special game transition determining means determines that the game is to be shifted to the special game, and then controls the movable accessory to execute the special game. Each time the game ball wins the start winning opening until the winning lottery is won after the special game is executed by the special game executing means. The falling lottery is performed.
In such a configuration, the falling lottery is performed every time the game ball wins the starting winning opening until the winning lottery is won after the special game is executed. In the game where the falling lottery is performed, the symbol image is displayed in a specific manner only when the falling lottery is won and when the lottery using the high probability lottery table is won. Thereby, it is possible to make it easier for the player to determine whether or not to continue the game before greatly reducing the game balls paid out by executing the special game.

In addition, in the invention according to claim 3, the effect display means in the game in which the falling lottery is performed by the falling lottery means, when the winning lottery is won, and the lottery using the high probability lottery table Only when a lottery by means is won, a reach effect is performed in which a part of a symbol image showing a big win is stopped and displayed, and the remaining symbol images are stopped and displayed.
In such a configuration, in the game in which the falling lottery is performed, the reach effect is performed only when the falling lottery is won and when the lottery using the high probability lottery table is won. As a result, if there is a reach effect but does not win, the player can determine that he has won the falling lottery and can determine that it is better not to continue the game. In addition, when there is a reach effect and a big win, the player can determine that the probability that he / she has not won the falling lottery is high, and can determine that it is better to continue the game. In addition, since the reach effect is performed only when winning the falling lottery and winning the lottery using the high-probability lottery table, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of the reach effect frequently and efficiently play the game. It can be advanced (the number of games per unit time can be increased).

  According to the present invention, in the game in which the falling lottery has been performed, the symbol image is displayed in a specific manner only when winning the falling lottery and when winning the lottery using the high probability lottery table. When the symbol image is displayed in a specific manner, it is possible to make it easier for the player to determine whether or not to continue the game, and when the symbol image is displayed in a specific manner. Can improve the player's expectation.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the present embodiment, a so-called first-class pachinko machine will be described as an example of a gaming machine.
(Game machine 100)
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of an external configuration of the gaming machine according to the present embodiment.
In FIG. 1, a gaming machine (pachinko machine) 100 includes a gaming board (gauge board) that constitutes a gaming board surface, and a gaming machine frame that supports and fixes the gaming board.

  The game board includes a plurality of nails 101, windmills 102a and 102b, ordinary symbol operating gate 103, ordinary electric accessory 104, rotating accessory 134, center ornament part 105, special symbol display device 106, ornamental symbol display device 107, ordinary The symbol display device 108, the outer rail 110, the inner rail 109, and the like are provided as game parts. Further, the game board is provided with a general winning port 111, a starting winning port 112, a big winning port 113, and an out port 114.

The inner rail 109 and the outer rail 110 are for guiding the launched game balls to the game area 115.
The nail 101 and the windmills 102a and 102b are provided at predetermined positions in the game area 115. For example, the movement of the game ball that enters the game area 115 and moves from top to bottom in FIG. Or the winning of the game ball to the general winning port 111, the start winning port 112, and the big winning port 113 and the passing of the game ball to the normal symbol operating gate 103 are adjusted.

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

  In the present embodiment, the 7-segment LED 116 is caused to emit light based on the winning of the game ball at the start winning opening 112, and any of “0” to “7”, which is a special symbol corresponding to “big hit”, and “losing” "-" Which is a special symbol corresponding to "" is variably displayed, and then one of these special symbols is stopped and displayed.

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

  The decorative symbol display device 107 is provided at a substantially central position of the game area 115 so that the player can easily recognize the decorative symbol display device 107. For example, the decorative symbol display device 107 includes a liquid crystal display device that displays a decorative symbol or the like. The decorative symbol display device 107 displays three decorative symbols displayed in a horizontal row in decorative symbol display areas 118 a to 118 c in the display screen 118 of the decorative symbol display device 107. Here, the decorative symbol is a symbol for visually producing the result of the lottery.

  In the present embodiment, for example, “0” to “9” and “A” to “F” are displayed in the decorative symbol display areas 118 a to 118 c as “0”, “1”, “2”, “ 3 ”,“ 4 ”,“ 5 ”,“ 6 ”,“ 7 ”,“ 8 ”,“ 9 ”,“ A ”,“ B ”,“ C ”,“ D ”,“ E ”,“ F ” In this order, after variably displaying from the top to the bottom of FIG. 1, any one of “0” to “9” and “A” to “F” is stopped in the decorative symbol display areas 118a to 118c. It is made to display. Then, when a combination of specific decorative symbols is stopped and displayed in the decorative symbol display areas 118a to 118c, the jackpot is set. On the other hand, when the combination of the decorative symbols stopped and displayed in the decorative symbol display areas 118a to 118c does not correspond to any of the specific decorative symbol combinations, it is “lost”.

In the present embodiment, the meanings of the special symbols that are stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106 and the decorative symbols that are stopped and displayed on the decorative symbol display device 107 are made to coincide with each other. For example, if the special symbol that is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106 indicates “big jackpot”, the decorative symbol that is stopped and displayed on the decorative symbol display device 107 also indicates “big jackpot”. (That is, the combination of the specific decorative design is made).
As described above, in the present embodiment, the special symbol and the decorative symbol are displayed in conjunction with each other so that no contradiction occurs when the game result is displayed.

  Further, the decorative symbol display device 107 displays not only the decorative symbol but also an accompanying image such as a background image as a background of the decorative symbol and a character image for giving the player a sense of expectation of jackpot. As the accompanying image, one or both of a still image and a moving image (for example, when a character image fluctuates in a stationary background image) can be displayed. Specifically, the decorative symbol display device 107 displays the decorative symbols in the decorative symbol display areas 118a to 118c in a variable manner, and displays accompanying images such as a background image and a character image (which may be both cases). After that, when the same decorative design is stopped and displayed in the decorative design display areas 118a and 118c and a so-called reach state is formed, the display is switched to an accompanying image prepared for the reach state and the expectation of “big hit” is played. After giving to the user, the remaining decorative symbols that are changing are stopped and displayed in the decorative symbol display area 118b. As described above, the decorative symbol display device 107 performs various displays (effects) so that the player can have a sense of expectation for “big hit”.

  A selection switch 132 is provided below the ball tray 128a. The selection switch 132 is, for example, for the player to perform an operation based on the effect image displayed on the display unit 20.

Below the decorative symbol display device 107, an ordinary electric accessory 104 is provided. The ordinary electric accessory 104 opens and closes to guide the game ball to the start winning opening 112.
A big prize opening 113 is formed below the ordinary electric accessory 104. The big prize opening 113 becomes a “hit” and when the game shifts to a special game, the big prize opening door 120 falls and opens. In the present embodiment, a maximum of 15 unit games are executed in a special game. More specifically, during a unit game, when a game ball passes through a specific area (so-called V zone) 121 formed in the big prize opening 113, it may shift to the next unit game. As much as possible, a maximum of 15 unit games are executed. In the present embodiment, the specific area 121 is formed in the special winning opening 113, but the specific area 121 is not necessarily formed. In this case, when shifting to the special game, it is guaranteed that 15 unit games will be executed.

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

The normal symbol operation gate 103 is provided between the normal electric accessory 104 and the inner rail 109. For example, a game ball can pass through the normal symbol operation gate 103 from top to bottom. It is configured.
The normal symbol display device 108 is provided at a position facing the normal symbol operation gate 103 through the normal electric accessory 104. For example, the 7-segment LED 122 for displaying the normal symbol and the normal symbol operation gate 103 for the game ball are provided. And four LEDs 123 that display the number of passages to. Here, the normal symbol is a symbol for indicating whether or not the normal electric accessory 104 is to be released according to the result of a lottery performed with the passage of the game ball to the normal symbol operating gate 103 as a trigger.

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

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

The general winning opening 111 is provided between the normal symbol operating gate 103 and the inner rail 109. When a gaming ball wins the general winning opening 111, a predetermined number of gaming balls are paid out.
The out port 114 is provided at the lowermost part of the game area 115 and collects game balls that have not won any of the start winning port 112, the general winning port 111, and the big winning port 113. The collected game balls are released to the outside of the gaming machine 100.

The gaming machine frame includes an outer frame 124, a front frame 125, a transparent plate 126, a door 127, and a ball tray unit 128.
The outer frame 124 has an opening and is a frame for fixing the gaming machine 100 to a position where it should be installed. The front frame 125 is a frame body that matches the opening of the outer frame 124, and is attached to the outer frame 124 so as to be freely opened and closed by a hinge mechanism or the like.

  The front frame 125 includes a mechanism for launching a game ball, a mechanism for detachably storing a game board, a mechanism for guiding or collecting the game ball, and the like. Furthermore, on the periphery of the front frame 125, there are provided electrical components 130a to 130d such as game effect lamps that are turned on according to the state of the game.

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

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

  In the gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment, a push button type is adopted as the ball removing mechanism. More specifically, when the bullet release mechanism 128b is pushed by the player, a part of the bottom surface of the ball tray 128a is opened so that the game ball stored in the ball tray 128a is released to the outside.

The launch handle 131 is operated by the player when launching the game ball toward the game area 115. When the player rotates the launch handle 131, the game ball is guided toward the game area 115 by being guided by the inner rail 109 and the outer rail 110 at a speed corresponding to the rotation angle.
In addition, speakers 133 for reproducing and outputting sound effects are provided on both sides of the ball removal mechanism 128b.

(Outline of specified games)
Here, an outline of the prescribed game in the gaming machine 100 will be described.
First, in the state where the rented game balls (rental balls) are placed on the ball tray 128a, when the player turns the launch handle 131 in the clockwise direction toward FIG. 1, the game balls are moved to the game area. Fired at 115. The game ball that has entered the game area 115 collides with the nail 101, the windmill 102, or the like formed in the game area 115, and moves in the game area 115 from top to bottom while moving irregularly. .

  When the game ball wins the start winning opening 112, a predetermined number of prize balls (four prize balls in this embodiment) are paid out to the ball tray 128a, and the special symbol display device 106 and the decorative symbol display device 107 are used. However, the change display of the symbol is started. Thereafter, when a predetermined special symbol is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106 and a combination of predetermined decorative symbols (for example, the same decorative symbol) is stopped and displayed on the decorative symbol display device 107, a “big hit” is obtained. A game shifts to a game.

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

When the game ball passes through a specific area (so-called V zone) formed in the big prize opening 113 while the big prize opening 113 is open as described above, the big prize opening 113 is obtained. Will open again. In the present embodiment, the opening / closing operation of the grand prize winning opening 113 is performed up to 15 times. That is, as described above, in the special game, the unit game is played up to 15 times.
In this way, when a special game is executed, a large amount of prize balls are paid out in a short period of time, and a great merit can be given to the player.

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

  Further, after the special game is executed, the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode”. Here, the “probability change mode” is a mode in which a state where a probability of winning a big hit is higher than that in the “normal mode” after a special game is executed. In the present embodiment, when the game ball wins the start winning opening 112 in the “probability change mode”, a falling lottery is performed to determine whether or not to shift the “probability change mode” to the “normal mode”. When the falling lottery is won, the “probability mode” is re-transferred to the “normal mode”. That is, when shifting to the “probability change mode”, a state is formed in which the probability of winning a big hit is higher than in the “normal mode” until the falling lottery is won. Thus, the gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment is a so-called falling type gaming machine. Also, in this “probability change mode”, after the special game is executed, while the lottery is not won, the operation of the ordinary electric accessory 104 is different from that in the “normal mode”, and the game ball is placed in the start winning opening 112. It is also designed to form a state where it is easy to win. In this way, by forming a state in which a game ball is likely to win a prize at the start winning opening 112, in the case of shifting to the “probability change mode”, the number of possessed balls is not reduced as much as possible until the falling lottery is won. Can be.

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

(System configuration)
Next, a system configuration such as an internal configuration of the gaming machine 100 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration of the gaming machine 100.
Inside the housing of the gaming machine 100, there are a main control board 201, a sub control board 202 connected to the main control board 201, a winning hole board 203, an LED drive board 204, a launch control board 205, a payout control board 206, A power receiving board 207, an electric decoration board 208, and the like are provided.

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

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

  The ROM 201b stores programs, data, and the like necessary for the main CPU 201a to perform processing shown in FIGS. 6 to 10 to be described later and control of other games. The RAM 201c is used as a work area when the main CPU 201a performs various controls, and temporarily stores data and the like.

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

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

(Sub control board 202)
The sub control board 202 is provided with a sub CPU 202a, ROM 202b, RAM 202c, image control processor 202d, image data ROM 202e, video RAM 202f, tone generator circuit 202g, amplifier 202h, and interface circuit (I / F circuit) 202i. The sub CPU 202a, ROM 202b, RAM 202c, image control processor 202d, tone generator circuit 202g, and I / F circuit 202i are connected to each other via a bus 202j. The image data ROM 202e and the video RAM 202f are connected to the image control processor 202d, and the amplifier 202h is connected to the sound source circuit 202g. Furthermore, a power receiving board 207, an electrical decoration board 208, and a selection switch 132 are connected to the I / F circuit 202i.

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

  The ROM 202b stores programs, data, and the like necessary for the sub CPU 202a to execute processing shown in FIG. 11 described later and other effects during the game. The RAM 202c is used as a work area when the sub CPU 202a performs various controls, and temporarily stores data and the like.

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

  The decorative symbol display device 107 includes a liquid crystal display device, and is connected to the image control processor 202d. The image data ROM 202e stores image data such as characters, characters and backgrounds displayed on the decorative symbol display device 107.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  When the normal electric accessory release instruction signal is input from the main control board 201, the winning opening board 203 outputs a current for driving the normal electric accessory 104 to the normal electric accessory solenoid 215. As a result, the ordinary electric accessory 104 performs an opening / closing operation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Winning determination unit 301)
The winning determination unit 301 determines which region the game ball has passed based on the game ball passing signal transmitted from the winning hole board 203. Specifically, based on the game ball passing signal, the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball is a start winning port 112, a normal symbol operating gate 103, a general winning port 111, a large winning port 113, and a specific area 121. Which of the above has been passed is determined.
The winning determination unit 301 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

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

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

Thereby, the payout control board 206 controls the payout device 218 so that payout according to the number of prize balls indicated in the prize ball number signal is made.
The payout instruction unit 303 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Special symbol lottery section 304)
The special symbol lottery unit 304, for example, determines a random number in the range from “0” to “65535”, that is, a random number related to the success or failure of the special symbol when the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball has won the start winning opening 112. Occur and get. Further, the special symbol lottery unit 304 simultaneously obtains a random number related to whether or not the special symbol is correct, and simultaneously determines two types of random numbers ranging from “0” to “255”, that is, a random number for determining a special symbol and a special symbol variation pattern determination. Generate and obtain a random number for. Hereinafter, three random numbers including a random number for determining whether a special symbol is appropriate, a random number for determining a special symbol, and a random number for determining a special symbol variation pattern are referred to as a “one set of random numbers”. For example, when no set of random numbers is stored in the random number storage area in the RAM 202 c, the acquired set of random numbers is output to the winning determination unit 305.

On the other hand, when a set of random numbers is stored in the random number storage area, the acquired set of random numbers is stored in the random number storage area. In the present embodiment, a maximum of four sets of random numbers acquired by the special symbol lottery unit 304 can be stored in the random number storage area, and the storage order of the set of random numbers can be identified. Then, the special symbol lottery unit 304 outputs the set of random numbers stored earliest in the random number storage area to the winning determination unit 305 and deletes the output set of random numbers from the random number storage area.
The special symbol lottery unit 304 is realized by using a main CPU 201a, a ROM 201b, and a RAM 202c provided on the main control board 201.

(Winning determination unit 305)
The winning determination unit 305 first determines that the result of the lottery determination by the special symbol lottery unit 304 is “big hit” based on the random number value related to whether or not the special symbol is out of the set of random numbers output by the special symbol lottery unit 304. Alternatively, it is determined whether it corresponds to “losing”. Subsequently, if the winning determination unit 305 corresponds to “big hit”, the result of the winning / losing lottery by the special symbol lottery unit 304 based on the value of the random number for determining the special symbol among the set of random numbers is “ It is determined which of “0” to “7” is applicable. Then, in the case of “big hit”, the bonus flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on and the probability variation flag is turned on.

  Further, the winning determination unit 305 determines which of the set of random numbers corresponds to the variation pattern of the special symbol based on the value of the random number for determining the special symbol variation pattern. As the special symbol variation display time of the special symbol variation pattern, for example, 5 seconds, 10 seconds, 20 seconds, and 29 seconds are defined. Each variation pattern is defined with probabilities in which “−” corresponding to “losing” or “0” to “7” corresponding to “winning” is defined in advance.

  Here, in the present embodiment, when the probability variation flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on (that is, when shifting to the “probability variation mode”), the winning / failing lottery is won. If not, the winning determination unit 305 defines a special symbol variation display time that is a time during which a reach is not formed when the decorative symbol variation is displayed, and is significantly shorter than the “normal mode” (for example, 5 seconds). The variation pattern of the special symbol is selected. In addition, when the probability variation flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on (that is, when shifting to the “probability variation mode”), the winning lottery and the falling lottery are selected. In the case of winning, a special symbol variation pattern in which a time (for example, 29 seconds) for which a reach is formed is displayed at the time of decorative symbol variation display is selected.

  In this way, if you are transitioning to the “probability change mode”, if you win a “big hit” or win a falling lottery, you will be able to form a reach. If a reach is formed during the process, either fall from “probability change mode” to “normal mode” or “big hit”, and when changing to “probability change mode” This is to enhance the production effect when the reach is formed. In addition, the reason why the reach is not formed when the mode is changed to the “probability mode” and does not become the “big hit” is to allow the game to be digested quickly. .

  Further, in the present embodiment, using the lottery table that is different between the case of shifting to the “probability change mode” and the other cases (when the game is played in the “normal mode”), A determination is made as to which of the “losing” is true. If it is a “hit”, the bonus flag and the probability change flag are turned on.

More specifically, in the present embodiment, there are a probability change lottery table used when shifting to the “probability change mode” and a normal lottery table used when a “normal mode” game is performed. Two lottery tables are provided.
Then, the contents of the two lottery tables are set so that the probability of being a “big hit” is higher in the case of shifting to the “probability mode” than in the “normal mode”.
In other words, the winning determination unit 305 determines whether or not the probability variation flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on. If the probability variation flag is turned on, the winning determination lottery is performed using the probability variation lottery table. Judgment is made. On the other hand, when the probability variation flag is not turned on, the determination of whether or not the lottery is performed is performed using the normal lottery table. Also, if the winning lottery is performed by the falling lottery unit 308 described later when the probability variation flag is turned on, the winning determination unit 305 has won the falling lottery using the lottery table for the falling lottery. The result of the falling lottery is output to the effect command generation unit 313 together with the result of the lottery performed using the probability variation lottery table or the normal lottery table. In addition, the winning determination unit 305 turns off the probability change flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 when winning the falling lottery.
The winning determination unit 305 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Special symbol display instruction unit 306)
The special symbol display instruction unit 306 determines the special symbol variation display time in the special symbol display device 106 based on the state of the flag stored in the flag storage unit 302, and determines the result determined by the winning determination unit 305. Based on this, a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106 is determined and transmitted to the special symbol lottery unit 304.

  When it corresponds to “big hit” and shifts to “probability variation mode”, any one of “0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7” is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106. It is determined as a special symbol to be made. On the other hand, in the case of “losing”, “−” is determined as a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106.

Then, the special symbol display instruction unit 306 forms a display pattern based on the stop symbol determined in this way, the special symbol variation display time, and the like, and sends the special symbol display instruction signal indicating the display pattern to the LED drive board 204. Send to. Thereby, the special symbol display part 116 in the special symbol display device 106 performs display according to the display pattern indicated in the special symbol display instruction signal.
The special symbol display instruction unit 306 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

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

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

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

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

On the other hand, when all the rounds of the special game have been completed, the special game has ended, and the special winning opening 113 is not opened. Further, when the game ball does not pass through the specific area 121 while the special winning opening 113 is opened, it is a so-called “punk” state, and whether or not all unit games in the special game have been consumed. Regardless, the special game is forcibly terminated. Accordingly, in this case as well, the special winning opening 113 is not opened.
The big winning opening releasing instruction unit 307 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Falling lottery section 308)
The falling lottery unit 308 refers to the flag storage unit 302 and acquires a random number when the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball has won the start winning port 112 when the probability variation flag is turned on. A falling lottery is performed.
The falling lottery section 308 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

(Normal symbol lottery section 309)
When the winning determination unit 301 determines that the game ball has passed the normal symbol operation gate 103, the normal symbol lottery unit 309 generates and acquires a random number within a predetermined range. When no random number is stored in the normal symbol random number storage area (that is, when it is not necessary to hold the normal symbol lottery result), the acquired random number is output to the winning determination unit 310. To do.

On the other hand, if the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area is three or less, the acquired random number is stored in the normal symbol random number storage area. As described above, in the present embodiment, up to four random numbers acquired by the normal symbol lottery unit 309 can be stored in the normal symbol random number storage area, and the random number storage order can be identified. . Then, the normal symbol lottery unit 304 outputs the random number stored earliest in the normal symbol random number storage area to the winning determination unit 310 and deletes the output random number from the normal symbol random number storage region.
The normal symbol lottery unit 309 is realized by using the main CPU 201a, the ROM 201b, and the RAM 201c provided on the main control board 201.

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

In the present embodiment, the winning determination unit is configured so that the probability of being “winning” is significantly higher in the case of shifting to the “probability mode” than in the case of playing the game in the “normal mode”. The contents of each lottery table used in 310 are set. This increases the probability of winning the normal symbol when the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode”. Therefore, when the mode is shifted to the “probability mode”, the opening frequency of the ordinary electric accessory 104 is higher than when the game is performed in the “normal mode”, and the number of balls is reduced as much as possible. The game can be progressed without it.
The normal symbol lottery unit 309 is realized by using the main CPU 201a, the ROM 201b, and the RAM 201c provided on the main control board 201.

(Normal symbol display instruction unit 311)
The normal symbol display instruction unit 311 determines the normal symbol variation display time based on the state of the flag stored in the flag storage unit 302, and based on the lottery result determined by the winning determination unit 310, the normal symbol display time The normal symbol to be stopped and displayed on the display device 108 is determined and transmitted to the normal symbol lottery unit 309.

  In the present embodiment, the case where the probability variation flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on (the case where the probability variation mode is shifted to) is more than the case where they are not turned on. The normal symbol variation display time is remarkably shortened (as compared to the case where a game is played in the “normal mode”).

If the result of the determination by the winning determination unit 310 is “winning”, for example, “7” is determined as a normal symbol to be stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 108. On the other hand, in the case of “losing”, for example, “−” is determined as a normal symbol to be stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 108.
The normal symbol display instruction unit 311 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

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

  In addition, the case where the probability variation flag stored in the flag storage unit 302 is turned on (the case where the flag is changed to the “probability variation mode”) is more effective than the case where the probability variation flag is not turned on (“normal mode”). The operation mode of the ordinary electric accessory 104 is determined so as to make it easier for a game ball to win the start winning opening 112 than when the game is performed in the game.

Then, the ordinary electric accessory drive instructing unit 312 transmits the ordinary electric accessory release signal indicating the determined operation mode to the winning prize opening board 203. Thereby, the ordinary electric accessory 104 operates in the operation mode indicated by the ordinary electric accessory release signal.
The ordinary electric accessory driving instruction unit 312 is realized by using the main CPU 201 a and the ROM 201 b provided on the main control board 201.

(Direction command generator 313)
The effect command generation unit 313 includes the result determined by the winning determination unit 301, the result of the winning / not determining lottery determined by the winning determining unit 305, and the falling that is output from the winning determining unit 301 along with the result of the winning / not determining lottery. Based on the result of the lottery, the state of the flag stored in the flag storage unit 302, and the special symbol variation display time determined by the special symbol display instruction unit 306, an effect command corresponding to the current game state is issued. It is generated and transmitted to the sub control board 202.
The effect command generation unit 313 is realized by using the main CPU 201a and the ROM 201b provided on the main control board 201.

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

(Direction command analysis unit 701)
The effect command analysis unit 701 analyzes a command transmitted from the main control board 201 (effect command generation unit 313). For example, when an effect command including a flag state stored in the flag storage unit 302 is input from the main control board 201, the game is selected as a special game or a normal game based on the flag state. It is determined whether or not the game is “probability change mode” or “normal mode”, and the determination result is used as a decoration symbol determination unit 702, a decoration symbol pattern determination unit 703, and a sound. The data is output to the generation unit 706.

Further, when an effect command indicating whether or not the winning lottery has been won (whether or not it is a “hit”) and a special symbol change time are input from the main control board 201, the game will display “ It is determined whether or not “big hit” and the variation display time of the decorative symbol are output, and the determined result is output to the decorative symbol determining unit 702, the decorative symbol pattern determining unit 703, and the voice generating unit 706.
In addition, when the result of the falling lottery is input from the main control board 201, it is determined whether or not the game has shifted from the “probability change mode” to the “normal mode”, and the determined result is used as a decoration symbol determination unit 702, The result is output to the decorative symbol pattern determination unit 703 and the sound generation unit 706.

In addition, the process which the production | presentation command analysis part 701 performs is not limited to these, The process according to the content of the command is performed suitably.
The effect command analysis unit 701 is realized by using the sub CPU 202a, the ROM 202b, and the RAM 202c provided on the sub control board 202.

(Decoration design determining unit 702)
The decorative symbol determination unit 702 determines a combination of decorative symbols to be stopped and displayed on the decorative symbol display device 107 based on the effect command output from the effect command analysis unit 701. In the present embodiment, when the effect command output from the effect command analysis unit 701 includes information indicating that the winning lottery is won ("big hit"), for example, "000", "111" , “222”, “333”, “444”, “555”, “666”, “777”, “888”, “999”, “AAA”, “BBB”, “CCC”, “DDD”, “ One of the combinations “EEE” and “FFF” is determined as a combination of decorative symbols to be stopped and displayed in the decorative symbol display areas 118 a to 118 c in the display screen 118 of the decorative symbol display device 107.

Furthermore, when the effect command output from the effect command analysis unit 401 includes information indicating that the winning lottery has not been won ("lost"), a combination in which the three decorative symbols are not the same is selected. It is determined as a combination of decorative symbols to be stopped and displayed in the decorative symbol display areas 118a to 118c in the display screen 118 of the decorative symbol display device 107.
Note that the combination of decorative symbols to be stopped and displayed in the decorative symbol display areas 118a to 118c in the display screen 118 of the decorative symbol display device 107 may be determined, for example, by lottery.
The decorative symbol determination unit 702 is realized by using a sub CPU 202a and a RAM 202c provided on the sub control board 202.

(Decorated pattern determination unit 703)
When the decoration symbol determination unit 702 determines the combination of the decoration symbols to be stopped and displayed on the decoration symbol display areas 118a to 118c in the display screen 118 of the decoration symbol display device 107 by the decoration symbol determination unit 702, A variation pattern of a decorative symbol that is displayed in a variable manner for the same time as the included special symbol variation display time is selected from a plurality of preset decorative symbol variation patterns 704. In these decorative symbol variation patterns 704, the decorative symbol variation time (decorative symbol variation display time), or two of the same decorative symbols are stopped and displayed, and the remaining one is stopped and displayed ( In other words, it is set that a reach is formed) or that a decorative design is stopped after a unique effect display is performed (so-called development-type effect is formed).

  Here, in the present embodiment, a decorative symbol variation pattern is selected from the following six symbol variation pattern groups. The first symbol variation pattern group is a symbol variation pattern group 704a for high probability selection that is selected when the winning lottery is won in the “probability variation mode”. The second symbol variation pattern group is a high probability non-winning symbol variation pattern group 704b that is selected when the winning lottery is not won in the “probability variation mode”. The third symbol variation pattern group is a symbol variation pattern group 704c for falling selection that is selected when the winning lottery is won when the falling lottery is won. The fourth symbol variation pattern group is a symbol variation pattern group 704d for non-winning that is selected when the winning lottery is not won when the falling lottery is won. The fifth symbol variation pattern group is a low-probability symbol variation pattern group 704e selected at the time of winning the winning / failing lottery in the game in the “normal mode” excluding the game won in the falling lottery. The fifth symbol variation pattern group is a low probability non-winning symbol variation pattern group 704f selected when the winning lottery is not won in the game in the “normal mode” except the game won in the falling lottery. is there.

  As described above, on the main control board 201 side, in the case of shifting to the “probability change mode”, when the winning lottery is won and when the falling lottery is won, As the symbol variation display time, a time during which reach is formed is selected. On the other hand, in the case of transition to the “probability change mode” and the winning lottery is not won, the winning determination unit 305 is a time during which no reach is formed as the special symbol variation display time, A time significantly shorter than that in the “normal mode” is selected.

  Corresponding to such an operation, on the side of the sub-control board 202, a highly probable symbol variation pattern group 704a, a falling symbol variation pattern group 704c, and a falling non-winning symbol variation pattern group 704d must be provided. The symbol variation pattern in which reach is formed is used, and the symbol variation pattern group 704b for high probability non-winning is used as a symbol variation pattern in which reach is not formed.

  On the other hand, the symbol variation pattern group 704e for low probability winning and the symbol variation pattern group 704f for non-winning low probability have no special symbol variation display time restriction as described above, and therefore, the symbol variation pattern in which reach is formed and The symbol variation pattern is a mixture of symbol variation patterns in which no reach is formed.

The above-described variations of the decorative pattern variation pattern are summarized as shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a correspondence relationship between a game state and a decorative symbol variation state. In FIG. 5, “short time” means that the symbol variation time is significantly shorter than that in the “normal mode”. In addition, “normal” represents a variation state of symbols other than reach.
As shown in FIG. 5A, when the special game is executed and then the “probability change mode” is entered, reach is not formed (normal (short time only)). After that, if the winning lottery is won and the game is shifted to the “normal mode” and the winning lottery is not won, a reach is always formed (reach only). In addition, as shown in FIG. 5B, a reach is always formed even in the case of a “big hit” in a game that has won the falling lottery and has shifted to the “normal mode” (reach only). Further, as shown in FIG. 5 (c), a reach is always formed even in the game that has been shifted to the “probability change mode”, even if the winning / losing lottery is won (reach only).

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when the player falls from the “probability change mode” to the “normal mode” (FIG. 5A) and the game has changed from the “probability change mode” to the “normal mode”, Reach is always formed when “big hit” (FIG. 5B) and when “big hit” is made in the “probability change mode” (FIG. 5C). On the other hand, when the “big hit” is not made in the “probability mode” (FIGS. 5A to 5C), the reach is not formed and the variation time of the symbol is made larger than that in the “normal mode”. Try to keep it short.

Needless to say, the contents set in the plurality of decorative symbol variation patterns 704 are not limited to these.
The decorative symbol pattern determination unit 703 is realized by using the sub CPU 202a and the RAM 202c provided on the sub control board 202, and the decorative symbol variation pattern 404 is realized by using the ROM 202b provided on the sub control board 202. Is done.

(Image generation unit 705)
The image generating unit 705 outputs the combination of the decorative symbols determined by the decorative symbol determining unit 702, the decorative symbol variation pattern 704 determined by the decorative symbol pattern determining unit 703, and the effect command analyzing unit 701 during the prescribed game. Based on the received information, image data to be displayed on the display screen 118 of the decorative symbol display device 107 is generated.

  For example, the image generation unit 705 determines that the combination of decorative symbols to be stopped and displayed on the decorative symbol display device 107 is determined by the decorative symbol determination unit 702 and the decorative symbol variation pattern 704 is determined by the decorative symbol pattern determination unit 703. Forms image data that displays decorative symbols according to these determined contents.

Needless to say, the image data generated by the image generation unit 705 is not limited to these.
The image generation unit 705 is realized by using an image control processor 202d, an image data ROM 202e, and a video RAM 202f provided on the sub control board 202.

(Voice generation unit 706)
The sound generation unit 706 generates sound data based on the information output from the effect command analysis unit 701 and outputs the sound data to the speaker 133. For example, when a lottery result of a special symbol is output from the production command analysis unit 701, a sound corresponding to the lottery result is released in accordance with the decorative symbol variation pattern 704 determined by the decorative symbol pattern determination unit 703. Sound data that can be heard is generated and output to the speaker 133.

Needless to say, the audio data generated by the audio generation unit 706 is not limited to these.
The sound generation unit 706 is realized by using the sub CPU 202a, the ROM 202b, the RAM 202c, and the sound source circuit 202g provided on the sub control board 202.
The main control board 201 and the sub control board 202 may be provided with functions other than those described above.

  Next, an example of processing operations in the gaming machine 100 of the present embodiment configured as described above will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

(Processing of main control board 201)
FIG. 6 is a main flowchart showing an example of processing operations in the main control board 201.
In step S1 of FIG. 6, the main control board 201 performs a game ball launch process. A specific example of this game ball launching process will be described. First, after the launch operation detection signal indicating that the launch handle 131 has been operated by the player is transmitted from the launch control board 205, the main control board 201, It is determined whether or not a certain amount of game balls are stored in the ball tray 128a.

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

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

  Next, in step S3, the main control board 201 performs a general winning process. This general winning process is a process performed when a game ball launched into the game area 115 wins the general winning opening 111. Details of the general winning process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, in step S4, the main control board 201 performs normal symbol operation gate passage processing. This normal symbol operation gate passing process is a process performed when a game ball launched into the game area 115 passes through the normal symbol operation gate. The normal symbol operation gate passing process will be described later with reference to FIGS.

  Next, in step S5, the main control board 201 performs a start winning process. This start winning process is a process performed when a game ball launched into the game area 115 wins the start winning port 112. Details of the start winning process will be described later with reference to FIGS. 9-1 and 9-2.

  Next, in step S6, the main control board 201 performs a special game execution process. This special game execution process is a process that is performed when a predetermined symbol is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display device 106 and the decorative symbol display device 107 to become a “hit” and the game shifts to a special game. Details of the special game execution process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  As described above, after the initialization process is performed, the main control board 201 repeatedly performs the general winning process, the normal symbol operation gate passing process, the starting winning process, and the special game execution process. As shown in FIG. 10, in this embodiment, each process is repeatedly executed while omitting unnecessary processes according to the state of the game.

(General winning process)
Next, the details of the general winning process in step S2 of FIG. 6 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
In step S <b> 11 of FIG. 7, the winning determination unit 301 determines whether or not the gaming ball has won the general winning opening 111 based on the gaming ball passage signal transmitted from the winning opening board 203. If the result of this determination is that the game ball has won the general winning opening 111, the process proceeds to step S12, where the payout instruction unit 303 pays out the award ball number signal indicating that the number of winning balls is “4”. Transmit to the substrate 206. As a result, four prize balls are paid out to the ball tray 128a. In addition, the effect command generation unit 313 generates an effect command indicating that the general winning opening 111 has been won and transmits the effect command to the sub control board 202. Thereby, the sub-control board 202 informs the player that the general winning opening 111 has been won, for example, by lighting the electric decoration part 130. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.
On the other hand, when the game ball has not won the general winning opening 111, it is not necessary to perform the process of step S12, and the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

(Normal symbol operation gate passing processing)
Next, the details of the normal symbol operation gate passing process in step S3 of FIG. 6 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.
In step S <b> 21 of FIG. 8A, the winning determination unit 301 determines whether or not the gaming ball has passed the normal symbol operation gate 103 based on the gaming ball passage signal transmitted from the winning opening board 203. If the result of this determination is that the game ball has passed through the normal symbol operation gate 103, the routine proceeds to step S22, where the normal symbol lottery unit 309 generates a random number and performs lottery (that is, obtains a random number).

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

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

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

As a result of this determination, if the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area is three or less, the process proceeds to step S28, where the normal symbol lottery unit 309 determines the normal symbol lottery result (step S22). Is stored in the normal symbol random number storage area.
Next, in step S29, the normal symbol lottery unit 309 reads the random number stored earliest in the normal symbol random number storage area, and proceeds to step S30.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S26 that no random number is stored, steps S27 to S29 are omitted and the process proceeds to step S30.
If it is determined in step S27 that the number of random numbers stored in the normal symbol random number storage area exceeds three, the random number acquired in step S22 may be suspended. Since the normal symbol based cannot be displayed, the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

When the normal symbol lottery result (random number) is obtained as described above, the process proceeds to step S30, and the normal symbol lottery unit 309 outputs the obtained random number to the winning determination unit 310.
Next, in step S31, the winning determination unit 310 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to determine whether or not the probability variation flag is turned on. If the result of this determination is that the probability variation flag is on, it is determined that the mode has been shifted to the “probability variation mode”, and the process proceeds to step S32, where the winning determination unit 310 is used when the probability variation mode is in effect. Read the default lottery table.
On the other hand, if it is determined that the probability variation flag is not turned on, it is determined that the game is in the normal game, and the process proceeds to step S33, where the winning determination unit 310 uses the default lottery table used when the game is in the normal game. To extract.

  As described above, when the lottery table is selected in steps S32 and S33, the process proceeds to step S34 in FIG. 8-2, and the winning determination unit 310 outputs the lottery result (random number) output from the normal symbol lottery unit 309 in step S30. Is determined to be “winning” in the selected lottery table. That is, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won.

  As a result of the determination, if the normal symbol lottery is won, the process proceeds to step S35, and the normal symbol display instructing unit 311 and the ordinary electric accessory driving instructing unit 312 refer to the flag storage unit 302 and the probability variation flag is set. Determine whether it is turned on. That is, it is determined whether or not the mode is shifted to the “probability change mode”. If the result of this determination is that the probability variation flag is on and the transition to the “probability variation mode” is in progress, the process proceeds to step S36. In step S36, the normal symbol display instructing unit 311 displays the normal symbol variably during the default normal symbol variation display time in the “probability change mode”, and then stops displaying “7” indicating “winning”. The display pattern to be displayed is formed, and the normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. As a result, the normal symbol display device 108 performs a display operation in accordance with the display pattern indicated in the normal symbol display instruction signal.

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

  If it is determined in step S35 that the probability variation flag is not turned on, the normal game is in progress, so the process proceeds to step S38, and the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 changes the default normal symbol variation in the normal game. After the normal symbol is variably displayed during the display time, a display pattern for stopping and displaying “7” indicating “winning” is formed, and the normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is generated. It transmits to the LED drive board 204. As a result, the normal symbol display device 108 performs a display operation in accordance with the display pattern indicated in the normal symbol display instruction signal.

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

  If it is determined in step S34 that the normal symbol lottery is not won, the process proceeds to step S40, and the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to determine whether the probability variation flag is turned on. Determine whether or not. As a result of these determinations, if the probability variation flag is turned on and the process proceeds to the “probability variation mode”, the process proceeds to step S41, and the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 changes the default normal symbol variation in the “probability variation mode”. After the normal symbol is variably displayed during the display time, a display pattern is formed so that “-” indicating “losing” is stopped, and the normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is displayed. It transmits to the LED drive board 204. As a result, the normal symbol display device 108 performs a display operation in accordance with the display pattern indicated in the normal symbol display instruction signal. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

  If it is determined in step S40 that the probability variation flag is not turned on, the normal game is being played, so the process proceeds to step S42, and the normal symbol display instruction unit 311 displays the default normal symbol variation display time during the normal game. After the normal symbol is variably displayed, a display pattern is formed so that “-” indicating “lost” is stopped, and the normal symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is driven by LED. Transmit to the substrate 204. As a result, the normal symbol display device 108 performs a display operation in accordance with the display pattern indicated in the normal symbol display instruction signal. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

  If it is determined in step S21 of FIG. 8-1 that the game ball has not passed the normal symbol operation gate 103, the process proceeds to step S43, and the normal symbol lottery unit 309 is provided in the RAM 201c. It is determined whether or not random numbers are stored in the normal symbol random number storage area. If a random number is stored as a result of this determination, the process proceeds to step S29 described above. On the other hand, when the random number is not stored, it is not necessary to perform the processing after step S22, and the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

(Start-up winning process)
Next, details of the start winning process in step S4 of FIG. 6 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 9-1 and 9-2.
In step S <b> 61 of FIG. 9A, the winning determination unit 301 determines whether or not the game ball has passed through the start winning port 112 based on the game ball passing signal transmitted from the winning port substrate 203. As a result of this determination, if the game ball has not passed through the start winning opening 112, the process proceeds to step S88 described later. On the other hand, when the game ball passes through the start winning opening 112, the process proceeds to step S62, and the falling lottery unit 308 refers to the flag storage unit 302 and determines whether or not the probability variation flag is turned on. If the result of this determination is that the probability variation flag is not turned on, step S63 is omitted and the routine proceeds to step S64 described later. On the other hand, if the probability variation flag is off, the process proceeds to step S63, and the falling lottery unit 308 generates a random number and performs the falling lottery.

  Next, in step S64, the special symbol lottery unit 304 generates a random number and performs a lottery determination (that is, obtains a random number related to whether the special symbol is true). At the same time, the special symbol lottery unit 304 acquires a random number for determining a special symbol and a random number for determining a special symbol variation pattern. Hereinafter, three random numbers including a random number for determining whether a special symbol is appropriate, a random number for determining a special symbol, and a random number for determining a special symbol variation pattern are referred to as a “one set of random numbers”.

  Next, in step S65, the special symbol lottery unit 304 refers to the flag storage unit 302 and determines whether or not the bonus flag is turned on. If the result of this determination is that the bonus flag is not turned on, processing proceeds to step S67 described later. On the other hand, when the bonus flag is turned off, the process proceeds to step S66, and the special symbol lottery unit 304 determines whether or not the special symbol is being variably displayed. If the result of this determination is that the special symbol is not being variably displayed, the process proceeds to step S69 described later. On the other hand, if the special symbol is variably displayed, the process proceeds to step S67, and the special symbol lottery unit 304 has three or less sets of random numbers stored in the random number storage area provided in the RAM 201c. It is determined whether or not.

If the result of this determination is that the number of a set of random numbers stored in the random number storage area is three or less, the process proceeds to step S68, where the special symbol lottery unit 304 selects the special symbol lottery result (in step S64). The acquired random number) is stored in the random number storage area. In the game, when the falling lottery unit 308 performs the falling lottery unit 308, the falling lottery unit 308 associates the result of the falling lottery (random number acquired in step S63) with the lottery result of the special symbol and stores the random number. Remember to area.
On the other hand, if the number of a set of random numbers stored in the random number storage area is not three or less, the lottery result of the special symbol (the set of random numbers acquired in step S64) may be suspended. Since the special symbol based cannot be displayed, the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

  If it is determined in step S66 that the special symbol is not being variably displayed, the process proceeds to step S69, and the special symbol lottery unit 304 determines whether a set of random numbers is stored in the random number storage area. As a result of the determination, if a set of random numbers is stored, the process proceeds to step S70, and the special symbol lottery unit 304 has three or less sets of random numbers stored in the random number storage area. It is determined whether or not.

If the result of this determination is that the number of random numbers in the set stored in the random number storage area is three or less, the process proceeds to step S71, where the special symbol lottery unit 304 selects the special symbol lottery result (in step S64). The acquired set of random numbers) is stored in the random number storage area. In the game, when the falling lottery unit 308 performs the falling lottery unit 308, the falling lottery unit 308 associates the result of the falling lottery (random number acquired in step S63) with the lottery result of the special symbol and stores the random number. Remember to area.
Next, in step S72, the special symbol lottery unit 304 reads a set of random numbers stored earliest in the random number storage area, and proceeds to step S71. At this time, when a random number for falling lottery is associated with a set of random numbers, the random number for falling lottery is also read.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S69 that a set of random numbers is not stored, steps S70 to S72 are omitted and the process proceeds to step S73.
If it is determined in step S70 that the number of random numbers stored in the random number storage area exceeds three, the set of random numbers acquired in step S64 may be suspended. Since special symbols based on a set of random numbers cannot be displayed, the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

When the lottery result (random number) of the special symbol is obtained as described above, the process proceeds to step S73, and the special symbol lottery unit 304 outputs the obtained set of random numbers to the winning determination unit 305. At this time, if a random number for falling lottery is associated with a set of random numbers, the random number for falling lottery is also output to the winning determination unit 305.
Next, in step S74, when a random number for falling lottery is input, the winning determination unit 305 determines whether or not the random number for falling lottery belongs to the winning area of the lottery table for falling lottery. Thus, it is determined whether or not the falling lottery is won. As a result of this determination, if the falling lottery is not won, step S75 is omitted and the process proceeds to step S76 described later. On the other hand, if the falling lottery is won, it is determined to shift from the “probability change mode” to the “normal mode”, and the process proceeds to step S75. The winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 and sets the probability change flag. Turn off.

  Next, in step S76, the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to determine whether or not the probability variation flag is turned on. If the result of this determination is that the probability variation flag is on, it is determined that the mode has been shifted to the “probability variation mode”, and the process proceeds to step S77 where the winning determination unit 305 is used when the probability variation mode is in effect. The default lottery table for probability variation is extracted.

On the other hand, if the probability variation flag is not turned on, the process proceeds to step S78, and the winning determination unit 305 extracts the default normal lottery table used in the “normal mode”.
As described above, when the lottery table is extracted in steps S77 and S78, the process proceeds to step S79 in FIG. 9-2, and the winning determination unit 305 outputs the lottery result (special symbol) output from the special symbol lottery unit 304 in step S73. It is determined whether or not the random number relating to whether or not is a “hit” in the extracted lottery table. That is, it is determined whether or not a special symbol lottery is won.

  As a result of the determination, if the special symbol lottery is won, the process proceeds to step S80, and the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to turn on the bonus flag and proceeds to step S81. On the other hand, when the special symbol lottery is not won, the process of step S80 is omitted and the process proceeds to step S81.

  In step S81, the special symbol display instruction unit 306 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to determine whether or not the probability variation flag is turned on. As a result of the determination, if the probability variation flag is on, the “probability variation mode” is being executed, so the process proceeds to step S82, and the special symbol display instruction unit 306 performs steps S79 and S81. Based on the determination result, a display pattern for the probability variation mode is formed, and the special symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Thereby, the special symbol display device 106 performs a display operation according to the display pattern indicated in the special symbol display instruction signal.

  On the other hand, when the probability variation flag is not turned on, since the “normal mode” is being executed, the process proceeds to step S83, and the special symbol display instruction unit 306 is based on the determination results in steps S79 and S81. Thus, a display pattern for a normal game is formed, and the special symbol display instruction signal indicating the formed display pattern is transmitted to the LED drive board 204. Thereby, the special symbol display device 106 performs a display operation according to the display pattern indicated in the special symbol display instruction signal.

In step S84, the effect command generator 313 generates an effect command corresponding to the current game state based on the determination results in steps S74, S79, and S81, and transmits the effect command to the sub-control board 202.
Next, in step S85, the special symbol display device 106 variably displays the decorative symbol, and then stops and displays the special symbol that should be stopped. Also, the payout instruction unit 303 transmits the prize ball number signal indicating that the prize ball number is “4” to the payout control board 206. As a result, four prize balls are paid out to the ball tray 128a.

Next, in step S86, the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 and determines whether or not the bonus flag is turned on. As a result of this determination, if the bonus flag is turned on, the process proceeds to step S87, and the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 and turns on the probability variation flag. In addition, after executing the special game, the effect command generation unit 313 generates an effect command indicating that the mode changes to the probability change mode, and transmits it to the sub-control board 202. Then, the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.
On the other hand, if the bonus flag is not turned on in step S86, the special game is not executed, and the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

  If it is determined in step S61 of FIG. 9-1 that the game ball has not passed through the start winning opening 112, the process proceeds to step S88, and the special symbol lottery unit 304 is provided in the RAM 201c. It is determined whether or not random numbers are stored in the special symbol random number storage area. If a random number is stored as a result of this determination, the process proceeds to step S72 described above. On the other hand, when the random number is not stored, it is not necessary to perform the processing after step S62, and the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

(Special game execution process)
Next, the details of the special game execution process in step S5 of FIG. 6 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
In step S101 of FIG. 10, the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302 to determine whether or not the bonus flag is turned on. If the result of this determination is that the bonus flag is not turned on, there is no need to perform the processing after step S102 (since it does not shift to a special game), the process proceeds to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

On the other hand, if the bonus flag is on, the process proceeds to step S102. In step S <b> 102, the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 transmits the special winning opening opening instruction signal to the winning opening board 203. As a result, the special winning opening 113 is opened, and one round (unit game) of the 15 special games is started.
Next, in step S <b> 103, the winning determination unit 301 determines whether or not the game ball has passed through the big winning opening 113 based on the gaming ball passing signal transmitted from the winning opening board 203.

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

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

  If it is determined in step S103 that the game ball has not won the big prize opening 113, the process of steps S104 to S106 is omitted and the process proceeds to step S107.

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

Next, in step S <b> 109, the special winning opening release instruction unit 307 determines whether or not the state where it is easy to pass the game ball to the specific area 121 is released. As a result of this determination, when the state in which the passing of the game ball to the specific area 121 is released, the process proceeds to step S110, where the special winning opening release instructing unit 307 determines that all unit games in the special game (that is, It is determined whether or not (special game) has ended. If the result of this determination is that the special game has ended, the process proceeds to step S111, where the effect command generating unit 313 generates an effect command indicating the end of the special game and transmits it to the sub control board 202. As a result, a video indicating the end of the special game is displayed on the decorative symbol display device 107. Further, the special winning opening opening instruction unit 307 transmits the specific area control instruction signal to the winning opening board 203. As a result, the game ball can easily pass through the specific area 121.
In step S112, the winning determination unit 305 refers to the flag storage unit 302, turns off the bonus flag, and returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.

  In step S107, when it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed since the big winning opening 113 is opened, the process proceeds to step S113, and the big winning opening releasing instruction unit 307 transmits the above-mentioned winning determination unit 301. Based on the game ball passing signal, it is determined whether or not 10 or more game balls have passed through the big prize opening 113. If the result of this determination is that there are 10 or more game balls that have passed through the special winning opening 113, it means that the unit game is over, so that the process proceeds to step S108, and the special winning opening 113 is closed.

On the other hand, if there are not ten or more game balls that have passed through the big winning opening 113, the unit game is continuing, and the process returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG.
If it is determined in step S110 that all unit games in the special game have not ended, the process proceeds to the next unit game. Therefore, the process proceeds to step S114, and the effect command generation unit 313 performs the next unit game. An effect command indicating that the process proceeds to is generated and transmitted to the sub-control board 202. As a result, a video indicating that the next unit game has progressed is displayed on the decorative symbol display device 107. Further, the special winning opening opening instruction unit 307 transmits the specific area control instruction signal to the winning opening board 203 and returns to the main flowchart shown in FIG. As a result, the game ball can easily pass through the specific area 121.

(Processing operation of sub-control board 202)
FIG. 11 is a main flowchart showing an example of processing operation in the sub-control board 202.
In step S121 of FIG. 11, the effect command analysis unit 701 determines whether an effect command transmitted from the main control board 201 (effect command generation unit 313) has been received. As a result of the determination, if the effect command transmitted from the main control board 201 has not been received, the process proceeds to step S122, and other processes other than steps S123 to S145 described later are performed. On the other hand, when the effect command transmitted from the main control board 201 is received, the process proceeds to step S123, and the effect command analysis unit 121 includes information indicating that the received effect command has won the falling lottery. By determining whether or not, it is determined whether or not the falling lottery is won in the game.

  If the result of this determination is that the game has not won the falling lottery, the process proceeds to step S123 described later. On the other hand, if the game has won the falling lottery, the process proceeds to step S124, and the effect command analysis unit 121 determines whether or not the received effect command includes information indicating that it is a “hit”. Thus, it is determined whether or not the game is “big hit”. As a result of the determination, if the game is not “big hit”, the process proceeds to step S128 described later. On the other hand, if the game is a “hit”, the process proceeds to step S125, and the decorative symbol determination unit 702 determines the combination of decorative symbols corresponding to the “hit” as a combination of decorative symbols to be displayed in a stopped manner.

  Next, in step S126, the decorative symbol pattern determining unit 703 changes the decorative symbol that is variably displayed for the same time as the special symbol variable display time included in the effect command received by the effect command analyzing unit 121 in step S121. Select a pattern. Here, since the winning lottery is won in the game and the game is “big hit”, the variation pattern of the decorative symbols is selected from the symbol variation pattern group 704c for the winning at the time of falling by lottery or the like.

  Next, in step S127, the image generation unit 705 determines whether the decoration design display device 107 uses the decorative design combination determined in step S125 to be stopped and the decorative design variation pattern determined in step S126. Image data to be displayed on the display screen 118 is generated. Then, an instruction to display the generated image data is given to the decorative symbol display device 107. Thereby, the decorative symbol display device 107 displays an image based on the image data instructed to be displayed. Here, since the winning lottery is won and “hit”, as described above, after the reach is formed, all the decorative symbols are stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to “hit”. Then, the process returns to step S121.

If it is determined in step S124 that the game is not “big hit”, the process proceeds to step S128, where the decorative symbol determination unit 702 stops the combination of decorative symbols corresponding to “losing”. Determine as a combination.
Next, in step S129, the decorative symbol pattern determining unit 703 changes the decorative symbol that is variably displayed for the same time as the special symbol variable display time included in the effect command received by the effect command analyzing unit 121 in step S121. Select a pattern. Here, in the game, the winning lottery is won, and it is not “hit” (“lost”). Therefore, the variation pattern of the decorative symbol is selected from the symbol variation pattern group 704d for non-winning by a lottery or the like. select.

  Next, in step S130, the image generation unit 705 determines whether the decoration design display device 107 uses the decorative design combination determined in step S128 to be stopped and the decorative design variation pattern determined in step S129. Image data to be displayed on the display screen 118 is generated. Then, an instruction to display the generated image data is given to the decorative symbol display device 107. Thereby, the decorative symbol display device 107 displays an image based on the image data instructed to be displayed. Here, since the winning lottery is won and the game is not “big hit”, as described above, after the reach is formed, all the decorative symbols are stopped and displayed in a manner corresponding to “losing”. Then, the process returns to step S121.

  If it is determined in step S123 that the game has not won the falling lottery, the process proceeds to step S131 in FIG. 11-2, and the effect command analysis unit 121 is in the “probability change mode” for the received effect command. It is determined whether or not the game is in the “probability change mode”. As a result of this determination, if the game is not in the “probability change mode”, the process proceeds to step S139 described later.

  On the other hand, when the game is in the “probability change mode”, the process proceeds to step S132, and the effect command analysis unit 121 determines whether or not the received effect command includes information indicating that it is a “hit”. By doing so, it is determined whether or not the game is “big hit”. As a result of the determination, if the game is not “big hit”, the process proceeds to step S136 described later. On the other hand, if the game is a “hit”, the process proceeds to step S133, and the decoration symbol determination unit 702 determines the combination of the decoration symbols corresponding to the “hit” as a combination of the decoration symbols to be stopped and displayed.

  Next, in step S134, the decorative symbol pattern determining unit 703 changes the decorative symbol that is variably displayed for the same time as the special symbol variable display time included in the effect command received by the effect command analyzing unit 121 in step S121. Select a pattern. In this case, since the winning lottery is not won in the “probability change mode” and the “big hit” is made, the variation pattern of the decorative symbol is selected from the high probability winning symbol variation pattern group 704a by lottery or the like.

  Next, in step S135, the image generation unit 705 determines whether the decoration design display device 107 uses the decorative design combination determined in step S133 to be stopped and the decorative design variation pattern determined in step S134. Image data to be displayed on the display screen 118 is generated. Then, an instruction to display the generated image data is given to the decorative symbol display device 107. Thereby, the decorative symbol display device 107 displays an image based on the image data instructed to be displayed. Here, in the “probability change mode”, the winning lottery is not won and the “big hit” is made, and as described above, after the reach is formed, all the decorative symbols stop in a manner corresponding to the “big hit”. Is displayed. Then, the process returns to step S121.

If it is determined in step S132 that the game is not “big hit”, the process proceeds to step S136, where the decorative symbol determination unit 702 stops the combination of decorative symbols corresponding to “losing”. Determine as a combination.
Next, in step S137, the decorative symbol pattern determining unit 703 changes the decorative symbol that is variably displayed for the same time as the special symbol variable display time included in the effect command received by the effect command analyzing unit 121 in step S121. Select a pattern. Here, in the “probability change mode”, the falling lottery is not won, and “big hit” is not made (“losing”), so the variation pattern of the decorative symbols from the high probability non-winning symbol variation pattern group 704b. Is selected by lottery or the like.

  Next, in step S138, the image generation unit 705 determines whether the decoration design display device 107 uses the decorative design combination determined in step S136 to be stopped and the decorative design variation pattern determined in step S137. Image data to be displayed on the display screen 118 is generated. Then, an instruction to display the generated image data is given to the decorative symbol display device 107. Thereby, the decorative symbol display device 107 displays an image based on the image data instructed to be displayed. Here, in the “probability change mode”, the falling lottery is not won and the “big hit” is not made. Therefore, as described above, the reach is not formed, and all the decorative symbols correspond to “losing” in a short time. It is stopped and displayed. Then, the process returns to step S121.

  In step S131, if the game is not in the “probability change mode” (the game is in the “normal mode”), the process proceeds to step S139, and the effect command analysis unit 121 determines that the received effect command is “big hit”. It is determined whether or not the game has been “big hit” by determining whether or not the information indicating is included. As a result of the determination, if the game is not “big hit”, the process proceeds to step S143 described later. On the other hand, if the game is a “hit”, the process proceeds to step S140, and the decorative symbol determination unit 702 determines the combination of decorative symbols corresponding to the “hit” as a combination of decorative symbols to be stopped.

  Next, in step S141, the decorative symbol pattern determining unit 703 changes the decorative symbol that is variably displayed for the same time as the special symbol variable display time included in the effect command received by the effect command analyzing unit 121 in step S121. Select a pattern. Here, since “big hit” is made in the “normal mode”, the variation pattern of the decorative symbol is selected by lottery or the like from the symbol variation pattern group 704e for low probability winning.

  Next, in step S142, the image generation unit 705 determines whether the decoration design display device 107 uses the decorative design combination determined in step S140 to be stopped and the decorative design variation pattern determined in step S141. Image data to be displayed on the display screen 118 is generated. Then, an instruction to display the generated image data is given to the decorative symbol display device 107. Thereby, the decorative symbol display device 107 displays an image based on the image data instructed to be displayed. Here, since it is “ordinary game”, as described above, after the reach is formed, all of the decorative symbols are stopped and displayed, and when the reach is not formed, all of the decorative symbols are stopped and displayed. There is a case. Then, the process returns to step S121.

If it is determined in step S139 that the game is not “big hit”, the process proceeds to step S143, where the decorative symbol determination unit 702 stops the combination of decorative symbols corresponding to “losing”. Determine as a combination.
Next, in step S144, the decorative symbol pattern determining unit 703 changes the decorative symbol that is variably displayed for the same time as the special symbol variable display time included in the effect command received by the effect command analyzing unit 121 in step S121. Select a pattern. Here, since “big hit” has not been made (“lost”) in the “normal mode”, the variation pattern of the decorative symbol is selected from among the symbol variation pattern group 704f for low probability non-winning by lottery or the like.

  Next, in step S145, the image generation unit 705 causes the decorative symbol display device 107 to execute the stoppage display of the decorative symbol combination determined in step S143 and the decorative symbol variation pattern determined in step S144. Image data to be displayed on the display screen 118 is generated. Then, an instruction to display the generated image data is given to the decorative symbol display device 107. Thereby, the decorative symbol display device 107 displays an image based on the image data instructed to be displayed. Here, since it is not “big hit” in the “normal mode”, as described above, when all of the decorative symbols are stopped and displayed after the reach is formed, the reach is not formed and the decorative symbol is not formed. Sometimes everything is stopped. Then, the process returns to step S121. Then, the process returns to step S121.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when the player falls from the “probability change mode” to the “normal mode” (FIG. 5A) and the game has changed from the “probability change mode” to the “normal mode”, ”(FIG. 5B) and a“ big hit ”in the“ probability change mode ”(FIG. 5C), reach must be formed. Then, when “big hit” is not made in the “probability change mode”, the reach is not formed. As a result, when reach is formed during the transition to the “probability change mode”, either the “probability change mode” falls to the “normal mode” or the “big hit” occurs. The player can determine whether or not the game should be ended depending on whether or not the “reach” is formed after the transition to the “probability change mode”, and after the transition to the “probability change mode”. It is possible to enhance the production effect when the reach is formed.

Thus, for example, if a reach was formed after the transition to the “probability mode” but a “big hit” was not made, the player can determine that he / she has won the falling lottery and should not continue the game. it can. In addition, for example, if a reach is formed after shifting to the “probability change mode” and a “hit”, the player determines that it is better to continue the game regardless of whether or not he / she has won the falling lottery. it can.
As described above, if a reach is formed after shifting to the “probability change mode”, it will be either “big hit” or a fall, so when the reach is formed after shifting to the “probability change mode”, the player The tension given to the can be increased.
On the other hand, when the “big hit” is not made in the “probability mode” (FIGS. 5A to 5C), the reach is not formed and the variation time of the symbol is made larger than that in the “normal mode”. Try to keep it short. As a result, when the game is shifted to the probability change mode, if the game is not “big hit”, the sub-control board 202 does not form a reach at the time of displaying the decorative symbol variation, and the game is quickly digested. be able to.

Further, in the case of shifting to the “probability change mode”, until the next “big hit”, the opening time of the ordinary electric accessory 104 is lengthened and the opening frequency is increased, but this is not necessarily done. There is no need. For example, in the “probability change mode” and the “normal mode”, the opening time of the ordinary electric accessory 104 is selected from the same selection target, and the ordinary electric accessory 104 is changed based on the lottery result using the same lottery table. You may make it open. In this way, whether the current gaming state is “probability change mode” or “normal mode” (that is, whether or not the falling lottery is won) It can be surely prevented from being realized.
Furthermore, the variation time of the special symbol or the normal symbol may be different between the “probability mode” and the “normal mode”. For example, the variation time of the special symbol and the normal symbol in the “probability mode” may be shorter than the variation time of the special symbol and the normal symbol in the “normal mode”.

  In the present embodiment, the first-class pachinko machine has been described as an example. However, the gaming machine is configured to end the “probability change mode” that is shifted after the execution of the special game by the falling lottery (non-regular method). If so, the operation of the present embodiment can be applied to a gaming machine other than the first type pachinko machine.

The embodiment of the present invention described above can be realized by a computer executing a program. Further, a means for supplying the program to the computer, for example, a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM recording such a program, or a transmission medium for transmitting such a program may be applied as an embodiment of the present invention. it can. A program product such as a computer-readable recording medium in which the program is recorded can also be applied as an embodiment of the present invention. The above programs, computer-readable recording media, transmission media, and program products are included in the scope of the present invention.
In addition, the above-described embodiments are merely examples of implementation in carrying out the present invention, and the technical scope of the present invention should not be construed as being limited thereto. That is, the present invention can be implemented in various forms without departing from the technical idea or the main features thereof.

It is a front view which shows embodiment of this invention and shows an example of the external appearance structure of a game machine. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a functional block diagram which shows embodiment of this invention and shows an example of a functional structure of a main control board. It is a functional block diagram which shows embodiment of this invention and shows an example of a functional structure of a sub control board. It is the figure which showed embodiment of this invention and showed an example of the correspondence of the state of a game, and the variation state of a decoration symbol. It is a main flowchart which shows embodiment of this invention and shows an example of the processing operation in a main control board. It is a flowchart which shows embodiment of this invention and demonstrates the detail of a general winning process. It is a flowchart which shows embodiment of this invention and demonstrates the detail of a normal symbol action | operation gate passage process. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the embodiment of the present invention and continuing from FIG. It is a flowchart which shows embodiment of this invention and demonstrates the detail of a start winning process. It is a flowchart which shows embodiment of this invention and follows FIG. It is a flowchart which shows embodiment of this invention and demonstrates the detail of a special game execution process. It is a main flowchart which shows embodiment of this invention and shows an example of the processing operation in a sub control board. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the embodiment of the present invention and continuing from FIG.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 101 Nail 103 Normal design action gate 104 Normal electric accessory 106 Special design display device 107 Decoration design display device 108 Normal design display device 112 Start winning opening 113 Grand winning opening 131 Launch handle 201 Main control board 202 Sub control board 301 Winning judgment part 302 Flag storage unit 304 Special symbol lottery unit 305 Winning determination unit 308 Falling lottery unit 313 Production command generation unit 701 Production command analysis unit 702 Decoration symbol determination unit 703 Decoration symbol pattern determination unit 704a Symbol variation pattern group 704b for high probability selection Symbol variation pattern group 704c for probability non-winning Symbol variation pattern group 704d for falling when winning Symbol variation pattern group 704e for falling when not falling Symbol variation pattern group 704f for low probability winning symbol variation pattern group 705 Image generator

Claims (3)

A lottery means for performing a lottery based on the winning of a game ball at a start winning opening formed on the game board;
Effect display means for displaying a variation of the symbol image when the game ball is won at the start winning opening, and displaying a combination of the symbol images when the variation display is stopped as an effect reflecting the lottery result by the lottery means; ,
A high probability lottery table used by the lottery means;
A lottery table used by the lottery means, and a low-probability lottery table having a lower probability of winning than the high-probability lottery table;
The lottery table used by the lottery means has a falling lottery means for performing a falling lottery whether or not to change from the high probability lottery table to the low probability lottery table,
The lottery means, when a fall lottery is performed by the fall lottery means, performs a lottery using the high probability lottery table or the low probability lottery table according to the lottery result by the fall lottery means, If no falling lottery is performed by the falling lottery means, the lottery is performed using the low probability lottery table,
The effect display means is specified only in the case where the lottery drawing is performed by the falling lottery means when the winning lottery is won and the lottery means using the high probability lottery table is won. A gaming machine that displays a design image in the form of. Special game transition judging means for judging whether or not to shift the game from the normal game to the special game based on the result of the lottery by the lottery means;
A movable accessory that operates to guide the game ball to the grand prize opening formed in the game board;
Special game execution means for controlling the movable accessory and executing the special game after it is determined by the special game transfer determination means to shift to a special game;
The falling lottery means performs the falling lottery every time a game ball wins the start winning opening until the winning lottery is won after the special game is executed by the special game executing means. The gaming machine according to claim 1.   The effect display means is a big hit only in the game where the falling lottery is performed by the falling lottery means when winning the falling lottery and winning the lottery by the lottery means using the high probability lottery table. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein a reach effect is performed in which a part of the symbol image indicating is stopped and displayed, and then the remaining symbol images are stopped and displayed.

Images