JP2007307163A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine improving the game taste by a player's operation of a push button. <P>SOLUTION: A Pachinko game machine is provided with a main control circuit controlling the execution of a game using game balls, a liquid crystal display device 32 executing various types of performances by picture display according to the execution of the game by the control of the main control circuit, an operation button 80 operated by the player, and a sub control circuit counting the operation time of the operation button 80 and controlling to vary the performance on the liquid crystal display device 32 based on the operation of the operation button 80 by the player 80. The sub control circuit controls to vary the performance content of the liquid crystal display device 32 based on the player's operation of the push button 80 according to the counting result of the operation time. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, a pachislot gaming machine, or a slot machine.

  Conventionally, the game board of a pachinko machine has been provided with a winning opening for a game ball to enter, and when the player operates the launch handle, the game ball is launched onto the game board, and the game board It flows down while rolling up. At this time, when a game ball enters a predetermined winning opening, a predetermined number of winning balls are paid out. Furthermore, when a game ball enters the start opening on the game board, a big hit lottery is performed, and a display means such as a liquid crystal display device displays a plurality of identification information fluctuation displays and character images based on the result of the big win lottery. The used effect image is displayed. When the result of the big win lottery is a win, the game state shifts to a game state advantageous to the player (a big win game state), and a lot of winning balls are paid out.

  For this reason, the player plays the game while watching the rolling of the game ball on the game board by operating the launch handle while expecting to enter the starting port. However, simply changing the rolling of the game ball with the game nails planted in the game board tends to be monotonous, and there is a limit to making the player entertain by rolling the game ball. Therefore, various ideas have been made to enhance the fun of the game by performing various effects using image display, mechanical gimmicks, sounds, lamps, and the like.

Conventionally, there has been a technique that uses a push button to produce an effect by a player's operation (see Patent Document 1). In addition, after the jackpot, the player switches the BGM depending on the number of times the push button is pressed, and further, the player operates the push button in a state where the player does not play the game, for example, in the demonstration image. Has been proposed to display a special image (see Non-Patent Document 1).
JP 2005-342310 A “Pachinko Victory Guide November / June 2005 issue” by Sakuya Shobo, p. 70

  However, according to the above gaming machine, some setting or effect is performed based on a single press of the push button. That is, only a fixed response is made to the player's one-time operation of the push button, and the player cannot obtain any interest from the operation of the push button itself.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can improve the interest of a game by operating a push button by a player.

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following.

  (1) A game execution control means for controlling the execution of a game using a game medium, an effect means for performing various effects according to the execution of the game under the control of the game execution control means, and an operation operable by the player Means, counting means for counting the operation time of the operation means, and effect control means for performing control to change the effect of the effect means based on the operation of the operation means by the player, the effect control means, A game machine characterized by performing control to change the effect content of the effect means based on the operation of the operation means by the player according to the counting result of the count means.

  According to the invention of (1), since the contents of the effect change according to the operation time of the operation means, the player can make various effects appear by changing the operation time of the operation means. , The fun of push button operation itself is improved. In this way, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can improve the interest of the game by operating the push button by the player.

  (2) In the gaming machine described in (1), a lottery means for lottering whether or not to shift to a gaming state advantageous to the player, and an identification for notifying whether or not the lottery result by the lottery means is a win Display means for performing variable display and stop display of information, and the effect control means performs control for setting the stop display mode of the identification information based on the lottery result by the lottery means and causing the display means to display the display information. , While performing control to display the contents of the effect set based on the lottery result of the lottery means, the operation time of the operation means is within a predetermined time range while the display means is performing the variable display of the identification information A game content switching control means for performing control to switch effect content until the identification information is stopped and displayed.

  According to the invention of (2), in addition to the invention of (1), since the effect contents are set based on the lottery result and the operation time of the operation means, for example, even if the same lottery result, Depending on the operation time of the means, different effects (for example, changing the design of reach effects when the identification information is in the reach display mode) can appear. For this reason, the interest of the push button operation itself is improved, and it becomes possible to provide a gaming machine that can improve the interest of the game by the operation of the push button by the player.

  (3) In the gaming machine according to (1) or (2), the effect control unit performs control for notifying a current gaming state based on an operation time of the operation unit. .

  According to the invention of (3), in addition to the invention of (1) or (2), based on the operation time of the operation means, what kind of mode the current gaming state is, for example, probability variation mode, time The player can know whether the mode is the shortened mode or the normal mode. For this reason, it becomes possible to find a new function by operating the operation means, and it is possible to provide a gaming machine that realizes improving the fun of the game by operating the push button by the player Become.

  (4) The gaming machine according to (2), further comprising an operation invalidation control unit that performs a control to invalidate an operation by the operation unit when the operation time of the operation unit is outside the predetermined time range. A featured gaming machine.

  According to the invention of (4), in addition to the invention of (2), since the operation by the operation means becomes invalid when the operation time of the operation means is out of the predetermined time range, the contents of the production are different. Requires some skill. For this reason, it becomes possible to provide the new interest of finding the operation timing of the operation means for making the production contents different. In this way, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can improve the interest of the game by operating the push button by the player.

  According to the present invention, since the contents of the effect change according to the operation time of the operation means, the player can make various effects appear by changing the operation time of the operation means. As a result, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can improve the interest of the game by operating the push button by the player.

  Embodiments suitable for the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings.

[Composition of gaming machine]
An overview of the gaming machine will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing an overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a main body frame 12 having an opening 12a formed on the front surface, various components disposed inside the opening 12a in the main body frame 12, and a main body frame. The door 11 is pivotally attached to the front of the door 12 so as to be openable and closable. As shown in FIG. 1, this door 11 is for closing the opening 12a from the front, and a game is normally performed in the closed state. Further, on the front surface of the main body frame 12, an upper plate 20, a lower plate 22, a firing handle 26, an operation button 80, and the like are disposed.

  Inside the opening 12a of the main body frame 12, as will be described later, a liquid crystal display device 32 as display means for displaying an image, a spacer 31, a game board 14 and the like are disposed. In addition, description is abbreviate | omitted in order to make an understanding easy about various components (not shown) other than the game board 14, the spacer 31, and the liquid crystal display device 32. FIG.

  The game board 14 is formed of a plate-shaped resin (a member having permeability) that is entirely permeable as a permeable region. Examples of the transparent member include various materials such as acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, and methacrylic resin. In addition, the game board 14 has a game area 15 on the front side thereof in which the launched game ball can roll. The game area 15 is an area surrounded by a guide rail 30 (specifically, an outer rail 30a shown in FIG. 4 to be described later) where a game ball can roll. In addition, a plurality of obstacle nails 13 are driven into the game area 15 of the game board 14. Further, a round number display 51 is provided on the game board 14 near the upper right end of the outer rail 30a (see FIG. 4). In the present embodiment, the game board 14 is entirely formed of a plate-shaped resin having transparency, but the present invention is a game board in which at least a part of the game area is made of a transmission area. Can do.

  A liquid crystal display device 32 as an image display means for displaying an image is provided behind the transmissive region in the game board 14 with a spacer 31 in between. In other words, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind the transparent member of the game board 14. The liquid crystal display device 32 has a display area 32a that enables display of an image relating to a game. The display area 32a is disposed so as to overlap the whole or a part of the game board 14 from the back side with the spacer 31 interposed therebetween. In other words, the display area 32a is disposed behind the game board 14 so as to overlap at least all or part of the game area 15 in the game board 14. Specifically, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind the game board 14 so that the display area 32 a overlaps all or part of the game area 15 and all or part of the game area outer area 16. . In the liquid crystal display device 32, various images such as a production effect image and a decoration image are displayed in the display area 32a.

  Further, in the present embodiment, by providing display means such as the liquid crystal display device 32 behind the transparent gaming board 14, for example, an area where game members such as an obstacle nail planting area, an accessory, and a decorative member are provided. And the degree of freedom of layout can be further increased.

  The spacer 31 is disposed on the rear side (back side) of the game board 14 and on the front side (front side) of the liquid crystal display device 32. That is, the spacer 31 is sandwiched between the game board 14 and the liquid crystal display device 32. The spacer 31 is made of a permeable material, and has a large through hole 31a at the center. An electrical decoration unit 53 is provided in the through hole 31a. As shown in FIG. 3, the electrical decoration unit 53 includes a display case 37 for storing a special symbol display 33 and a normal symbol display 35, special symbol holding lamps 34a, 34b, 34c and 34d, and a normal symbol holding lamp 50a, An electrical decoration unit 53 including 50b, 50c, and 50d is provided. The front side of the display case 37 is covered with a transparent lens (not shown) for the purpose of improving visual recognition.

  In FIG. 2, a first warp path 47 provided on the back surface of the game board 14 is illustrated for easy understanding. The first warp path 47 is formed of a permeable material so that a game ball won in the winning opening 24 (see FIG. 4) passes through a second warp path 49 (see FIG. 4) described later. Is provided.

  The special symbol display 33, the normal symbol display 35, the special symbol hold lamps 34a to 34d and the normal symbol hold lamps 50a to 50d will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the electrical decoration unit 53.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the special symbol display device 33 accommodated in the display device case 37 is composed of a plurality of 7-segment LEDs 41. The 7-segment LED 41 is repeatedly turned on and off when a predetermined special symbol variation display start condition is satisfied. When the 7-segment LED 41 is turned on / off, 10 numeric symbols from “0” to “9” are variably displayed as special symbols (also referred to as identification information). As a special symbol, when a specific numerical symbol (for example, a numerical symbol of “3” or “7”) is stopped and displayed, a big hit gaming state (a specific gaming state) that is advantageous to the player from the normal gaming state ) Will change the gaming state. When this big hit game state is reached, as will be described later, the shutter 40 (see FIG. 4) is controlled to the open state, and the game ball can be received in the big prize opening 39 (see FIG. 4). On the other hand, when a numerical symbol other than a specific numerical symbol (for example, a numerical symbol other than “3” or “7”) is stopped and displayed as a special symbol, the normal gaming state is maintained. As described above, a game in which a special symbol is variably displayed and then stopped and the game state is shifted or maintained according to the result is referred to as a “special symbol game”.

  A normal symbol display 35 is provided on the right side of the special symbol display 33. The normal symbol display 35 is composed of two display lamps (not shown). When these display lamps are alternately turned on and off, symbols such as “O” and “X” are displayed. Fluctuated display as a normal symbol.

  On both the left and right sides of the display case 37, special symbol holding lamps 34a to 34d are provided. The special symbol hold lamps 34a to 34d display the number of executions of the variable symbol variable display held by turning on or off (so-called “the number of reserved balls”, “the number of reserved balls related to special symbols”). For example, when the execution of the special symbol variation display is held once, the special symbol hold lamp 34a is turned on. When the execution of the special symbol variation display is held twice, the special symbol hold In addition to the lamp 34a, the special symbol hold lamp 34b is turned on, and when the execution of the special symbol change display is held three times, the special symbol hold lamp 34c is turned on in addition to the special symbol hold lamps 34a and 34b. When the execution of the special symbol variation display is held four times, the special symbol hold lamp 34d is turned on in addition to the special symbol hold lamps 34a, 34b, 34c.

  Under the display case 37, normal symbol holding lamps 50a to 50d are provided. As will be described later, the normal symbol hold lamps 50a to 50d indicate the number of executions of the fluctuation display of the normal symbol held by turning on or off (so-called “the number of held balls”, “the number of held balls related to the normal symbols”). indicate. Similar to the special symbol, when the execution of the fluctuation display of the normal symbol is held once, the normal symbol holding lamp 50a is turned on.

  On the outside of the transmissive area of the game board 14, decorative lamps 133a and 133b as light emitting display means are arranged. The decorative lamps 133a and 133b display a predetermined light emission mode. Specifically, the decoration lamps 133a and 133b are for executing a lamp effect and for giving a notice effect of a change in the gaming state.

  The description of the overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 using FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 is continued. A protective plate 19 having transparency is disposed on the door 11. The protection plate 19 is disposed so as to face the front surface of the game board 14 with the door 11 closed.

  The firing handle 26 is provided so as to be rotatable with respect to the main body frame 12. A firing solenoid (not shown) as a driving device is provided on the back side of the firing handle 26. Further, a touch sensor (not shown) is provided on the peripheral edge of the firing handle 26. When the touch sensor is touched by the player, it is detected that the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player. When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and is rotated in the clockwise direction, electric power is supplied to the firing solenoid (not shown) according to the rotational angle and stored in the upper plate 20. The game balls are sequentially fired on the game board 14 to advance the game. Further, by operating the firing stop button 27 during the turning operation of the firing handle 26, the launching of the game ball is stopped.

  In addition, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 disposed behind (on the back side of) the game board 14, an effect image related to the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display 33 described above is displayed.

  For example, during the variable display of the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display 33, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, from a number, a symbol or the like for each of a plurality of symbol columns (three columns in this embodiment). The symbol (which is also the identification information for presentation. For example, a number from “0” to “9”) is variably displayed. Further, the special symbol that has been variably displayed on the special symbol display 33 is stopped and displayed, and the identification information for presentation is also stopped and displayed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32.

  Further, when a special numerical symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display 33, an effect image for allowing the player to grasp that it is a big hit is displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. Specifically, when a specific numeric symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display 33, a combination of effect identification information displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 is a specific display. A mode (for example, a mode in which all of “1” to “9” are stopped and displayed in each of a plurality of symbol rows).

  In this way, whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state, in other words, a game for determining whether or not to execute a special game described later is displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. Such a game is called a “variable display game”. In addition, when the combination of the identification information for presentation displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 becomes a specific display mode, the character that is more than happy with a character image such as “big hit! An image is displayed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32.

  Next, an overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a front view showing an overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment. Note that in the description of the overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 using FIG. 4, portions that overlap with the description of the overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 using FIGS. 1 and 2 are omitted. In FIG. 4, the description of the plurality of obstacle nails 13 driven into the game board 14 is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 4, two guide rails 30 (30a and 30b), obstacles 55 and 57, passing gates 54a and 54b, a second warp path 49, an obstacle 58, a starting port 25 that forms a predetermined area, and a blade A starting port 44 provided with a member 48, a shutter 40, a big prize winning port 39, and a round number display 51 are provided. In addition, in the upper part of the game board 14, the electrical decoration units 53 such as the special symbol display 33 and the normal symbol display 35 are visible.

  An obstacle 55 is provided in the upper part of the game board 14, and an obstacle 57 is provided in the approximate center of the game board 14. A starting port 25 that forms a predetermined area is provided below the obstacle 57. An obstacle 58 is also provided on the right side of the center of the game board 14.

  The two guide rails 30 provided on the left side of the game board 14 are composed of an outer rail 30a that partitions (defines) the game area 15 and an inner rail 30b that is disposed inside the outer rail 30a. . The launched game ball is guided by a guide rail 30 provided on the game board 14, moves to the upper part of the game board 14, passes through the electric decoration unit 53, and the plurality of obstacle nails 13 ( 2), due to the collision with the obstacles 55, 57, 58, etc. provided on the game board 14, the downward flow of the game board 14 is made while changing its traveling direction.

  In addition, a winning opening 24 is formed at the left end of the obstacle 55. When a game ball wins the winning opening 24, the game ball moves behind the game board 14 via the first warp path 47 and further along the rail-shaped second warp path 49 and is guided behind the obstacle 57. It is burned. The game ball guided behind the obstacle 57 is discharged to the front side of the game board 14 through a discharge port (not shown) surrounded by the obstacle 57 and flows down to the game board 14.

  Furthermore, a start port 44 that forms a predetermined area is provided on the right side of the obstacle 55. The starting port 44 is provided with blade members (so-called ordinary electric accessories) 48 on both the left and right sides.

  When a game ball wins at the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 described above (this is one of the predetermined special symbol variation display starts), the special symbol variation display by the special symbol display 33 is started. . Further, when the game ball wins the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 during the variation display of the special symbol, the game ball to the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 until the special symbol under the variation display is stopped and displayed. The execution (start) of the special symbol variation display based on the winning of is suspended. Thereafter, when the special symbol that has been variably displayed is stopped and displayed, the variably displayed suspended special symbol is started. It should be noted that an upper limit is set for the number of times the execution of the special symbol variation display is suspended, that is, the number of retained balls, for example, the special symbol variation display is suspended up to four times (pieces).

  In addition, as another condition (start of variable display of a predetermined special symbol), the special symbol is stopped and displayed. In other words, every time a predetermined special symbol variable display start condition is satisfied, the special symbol variable display is started.

  Further, also in the variable display game in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, when a game ball is won in the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 described above (this is one of the start of variable display of identification information for a predetermined effect). )), The change display of the identification information for effect is started. Further, when the game ball wins the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 during the variation display regarding the special symbol, the start opening 25 or the start opening 44 is continued until the identification information for the effect during the variation display is stopped and displayed. Execution (start) of the change display of the identification information for presentation based on the winning of the game ball is suspended. Thereafter, when the identification information for presentation that has been variably displayed is stopped and displayed, the variability display of the identification information for presentation that has been suspended is started.

  Further, as another condition (variable display start of identification information for predetermined effect), the identification information for effect is stopped and displayed. In other words, every time the change display start condition of the identification information for a predetermined effect is satisfied, the variable display of the identification information for the effect is started.

  In the present embodiment, the fact that a game ball has won a winning opening 25, 44, etc. is used as a predetermined special symbol variable display start condition or a predetermined presentation identification information variable display start condition. However, the present invention is not limited to this.

  Passage gates 54 a and 54 b are provided on both the left and right sides of the approximate center of the game board 14. The passing gates 54a and 54b are provided with passing ball sensors 114 and 115 (see FIG. 9) described later. The passing ball sensors 114 and 115 detect that the game ball has passed through the passing gates 54a and 54b. When the passing ball sensors 114 and 115 detect the passage of the game ball, the normal symbol display is started on the normal symbol display 35, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the normal symbol change display is stopped. . As described above, this normal symbol is a symbol such as “◯” or “x”.

  When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a predetermined symbol, for example, “◯”, the blade members (so-called normal electric accessories) 48 provided on the left and right sides of the start port 44 are changed from the closed state to the open state, It becomes easy for a game ball to enter the start port 44. Further, when a predetermined time has elapsed after the blade member 48 is in the open state, the blade member 48 is closed so that it is difficult for the game ball to enter the start port 44. As described above, a game in which the normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner and then stopped and the open / closed state of the blade member 48 varies depending on the result is referred to as a “normal symbol game”.

  Similarly to the special symbol variation display, when a game ball passes through the passing gates 54a and 54b during the normal symbol variation display, the passing gate is displayed until the normal symbol in the variation display is stopped and displayed. The execution (start) of the normal symbol variation display based on the passing of the game ball to 54a and 54b is suspended. After that, when the normal symbol that has been variably displayed is stopped and displayed, the variably displayed normal symbol that has been suspended is started.

  The big prize opening 39 is provided with a shutter 40 that can be opened and closed on the front side (front side). The shutter 40 is driven so as to be in an open state in which it is easy to accept a game ball when a special numerical symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display 33 and the gaming state is shifted to the big hit gaming state. . As a result, the special winning opening 39 is in an open state (first state) where the game ball can be easily received.

  On the other hand, a special winning opening 39 provided on the back side (rear) of the shutter 40 includes a specific area (not shown) having a V / count sensor 102 (see FIG. 9) and a count sensor 104 (see FIG. 9). There are general areas (not shown) having a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls, or the shutter 40 is opened until a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses. Driven. When a condition for winning a predetermined number of game balls in the grand prize opening 39 or elapse of a predetermined time is satisfied in the open state, the shutter 40 is driven so as to be in a closed state in which it is difficult to accept the game balls. . As a result, the special winning opening 39 is in a closed state in which it is difficult to accept a game ball (second state). It should be noted that from the open state (first state) in which the grand prize opening 39 is easy to accept game balls to the closed state (second state) in which the grand prize opening 39 is difficult to accept game balls. This game is called a round game. Therefore, the shutter 40 is opened during the round game and is closed between the round games. A round game is counted as the number of rounds, such as “1” round and “2” round. For example, the first round game may be referred to as the first round and the second round as the second round.

  Subsequently, the shutter 40 that is driven from the open state to the closed state (second state) is again operated on condition that the game ball received in the special winning opening 39 in the open state has passed through the V-count sensor 102. Driven to the open state. In other words, it is possible to continue to the next round game on condition that the game ball received in the special winning opening 39 in the opened state of the shutter 40 has passed the V · count sensor 102. Note that the game from the first round game to the end of the (round) round game that cannot continue to the next round game is called a special game, and this game state is called a special game state. That is, the special game state is a game state advantageous for the player.

  During execution of the special game, the number of rounds (the maximum number of continuous rounds) from the first round number to the last round game when the most round game is continued differs depending on the special symbols that are stopped and displayed. For example, in the present embodiment, when the number symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 33 is 3, the maximum number of continuous rounds is two, and the number symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 33 is 7. In this case, the maximum number of continuous rounds is 15 rounds. The maximum number of continuous rounds is not limited to 2 rounds or 15 rounds. For example, the maximum number of consecutive rounds is selected from “1” to “15” rounds by lottery by a round number lottery means (a main control circuit 60 including a main CPU 66 described later (see FIG. 9)). Anyway.

  In addition, when a game ball wins or passes through the specific area and the general area in the start ports 25 and 44, the general winning ports 56a to 56d, and the big winning port 39 described above, it is set in advance according to the type of each winning port. A certain number of game balls are paid out to the upper plate 20 (see FIG. 1) or the lower plate 22 (see FIG. 1).

  On the other hand, a round number display 51 is provided in the outer area 16 of the game area on the game board 14. The round number display 51 is composed of at least one 7-segment LED, and can display at least one digit number design (in this embodiment, two digit number). In the present embodiment, the round number display 51 displays a “round number” indicating how many rounds the currently executed round game is.

  Further, the operation button 80 is configured by a push button, and an on / off signal generated by operating the operation button 80 is transmitted to the sub CPU 206 (see FIG. 9). The sub CPU 206 (see FIG. 9) performs control to change the effect image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 based on the on / off signal from the operation button 80. Thus, the operation button 80 is an example of an operation means that can be operated by the player.

[Description of display screen]
Next, a display image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a display image of the liquid crystal display device 32. FIG. 5 shows a display example when the game ball launching function is selected, and in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 3, three identification symbols 94 that are identification information for presentation are displayed. . According to the present embodiment, the identification symbol 94 is composed of 0 to 9 numeric symbols. Then, on the condition that the game ball is launched on the game board 14 shown in FIG. 4 and enters the start port 25, the three identification symbols 94 change based on the lottery result by the main CPU 66 (see FIG. 9). / Stop display. Then, when the three identification symbols 94 are stopped and displayed in a predetermined combination (for example, all the same number symbols), the game becomes a big hit and shifts to a special game. As described above, the liquid crystal display device 32 is an example of a display unit that performs a variable display and a stop display of identification information for notifying whether or not the lottery result by the lottery unit (for example, the main CPU 66 (see FIG. 9)) is a win. It is.

  In the variable display game, an effect image is displayed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32 together with the identification symbol 94. According to the present embodiment, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, a character image 92a of the main character (for example, a character image of a person (so-called Don-chan) who is wearing a twisted bee and wearing a red happi) Is displayed. Further, based on the lottery result by the main CPU 66 (see FIG. 9), the effect lottery for determining the content of the effect displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 is performed. Depending on the content of the effect set by the effect lottery, various sign images, for example, a character image 92b (for example, a person having a syringe and wearing a yukata (so-called Hazuki) in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32). Chan) character image etc.) is displayed. Thus, the liquid crystal display device 32 is an example of an effect unit that performs various effects in accordance with the execution of the game under the control of the game execution control unit (for example, the main CPU 66 (see FIG. 9)).

  Next, a specific example of effect contents displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 will be described. The three identification symbols 94 start changing display in the order of left symbol, right symbol, and central symbol, and stop and display in the order of left symbol, right symbol, and central symbol. The character image 92a appears during the period from when the identification symbol 94 starts to be changed to the stop display, and after various operations, when the left symbol and the right symbol are the same, the character shifts to reach production. When the left symbol and the right symbol are not the same, the character image 92a is rendered to fall. Here, a character image 92b for predicting the re-change of the right symbol is displayed according to the contents of the effect set by the effect lottery. Then, the character image 92b is stabbed into the character image 92a with a syringe image 92c possessed by the character image 92b, and a character image 96 prompting the operation of the operation button 80 is displayed. For example, after displaying “Drugs will be injected only for the time the button is pressed!”, “Yeah, start!” Is displayed and the player operates the operation button 80.

  When the player presses the operation button 80, the piston moves as shown in FIG. Here, since a range indicating an appropriate amount is displayed on the syringe, the player releases the operation button 80 so that the tip of the piston stops within this range. Then, when the tip of the piston stops within an appropriate amount range, as shown in FIG. 7, the character image 92a rises, the right symbol re-varies, and reach occurs. Then, after performing the reach effect, the stop display mode of the three identification symbols 94 is determined, and the lottery result by the main CPU 66 (see FIG. 9) is notified to the player. If the tip of the piston does not stop within the proper amount range, the character image 92a rises and a reach occurs as shown in FIG. 7 according to the result of the effect lottery, or the character as shown in FIG. The image 92a falls and the stop display mode of the identification symbol 94 is determined.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 32 displays only when the reach is generated due to the normal reach effect used as the normal reach effect and the operation of the operation button 80 by the player, and the piston stops in an appropriate amount range. Special reach production will be provided. Further, a normal effect table for determining a reach effect to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 from a plurality of normal reach, or a special effect table for determining a special reach effect to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 from a plurality of special reach effects. Reach production is determined by random number lottery. That is, although details will be described later, the sub CPU 206 monitors the pressing time of the operation button 80 and determines whether or not the pressing time is within a predetermined range (for example, set time ± 0.25 seconds). Then, when the sub CPU 206 determines that it is within the predetermined range, the special reach effect is determined based on the first effect table.

  Thus, according to the present embodiment, the reach effect can be changed to another reach effect depending on the skill of the player operating the operation button 80. Therefore, by changing the operation time of the operation button 80, the player can make various reach effects that cannot be seen in the normal game, and the interest of the operation of the operation button 80 is improved. In this way, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can improve the interest of the game by operating the push button by the player.

  In the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 32 including a liquid crystal display panel is used as a portion for displaying an image. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be used. For example, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) is used. It may be made of a cathode ray tube, a dot LED, a segment LED, an EL (Electronic Luminescent), plasma, or the like. Further, in the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 32 is shown in the case where it is provided in the approximate center of the front of the game board 14 in the pachinko gaming machine 10 that is a gaming machine. For example, the liquid crystal display device 32 may be provided at any position. In the present embodiment, the special symbol display 33 and the normal symbol display 35 are provided separately from the liquid crystal display device 32. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the liquid crystal display device 32 is provided with the special symbol and the normal symbol. You may comprise so that a fluctuation display may be carried out.

[Electric configuration of gaming machine]
A control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the main control circuit 60 as game control means includes a main CPU 66, a main ROM (read only memory) 68, and a main RAM (read / write memory) 70 as control means. The main control circuit 60 controls the progress of the game.

  The main CPU 66 is connected to a main ROM 68, a main RAM 70, and the like, and has a function of executing various processes according to a program stored in the main ROM 68. Thus, the main CPU 66 functions as various means to be described later, such as functioning as a special game execution means or a lottery means.

  A program for controlling the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the main CPU 66 is stored in the main ROM 68. In addition, a jackpot determination table and an effect to be referred to when a jackpot determination is made by random number lottery are selected. Various tables such as an effect condition selection table that is referred to when performing the operation, a special effect table that is referenced when the operation of the operation button 80 shown in FIGS. 5 to 8 satisfies a predetermined condition, and other tables are also stored. ing.

  The main RAM 70 has a function of storing various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the main CPU 66. Specific examples of data stored in the main RAM 70 include the following.

  In the main RAM 70, a control state flag, a specific area passing flag, a jackpot determination random number counter, a jackpot symbol determination random number counter, a loss symbol determination random number counter, an effect condition selection random number counter, a grand prize opening number counter, a grand prize Oral winning counter, round number display counter, round number display effect start counter, waiting time timer, large winning opening time timer, data indicating the number of reserved balls related to special symbols, data indicating the number of reserved balls related to normal symbols, Data for supplying a command to a sub-control circuit 200, which will be described later, a start memory number counter, variables, and the like are positioned.

  The control state flag indicates the control state of the special symbol game. The specific area passage flag is for determining whether or not the game ball has passed the specific area.

  The jackpot determination random number counter is for determining the jackpot of a special symbol. The jackpot symbol determining random number counter is for determining a special symbol to be stopped when a special symbol jackpot is determined. The random symbol counter for losing symbol determination is for determining a special symbol to be stopped and displayed when it is not a big hit. The production condition selection random number counter is for determining a production variation pattern. The round number display effect start counter is used to determine whether or not to display on the round number display during the normal game. These counters are stored and updated so that the main CPU 66 sequentially increases “1”, and various functions of the main CPU 66 are executed by extracting random numbers from the counters at a predetermined timing. In the present embodiment, such a random number counter is provided, and the main CPU 66 stores and updates the random number counter so as to increase “1” according to a program. You may comprise so that an apparatus like a generator may be provided.

  The waiting time timer is for synchronizing processing executed in the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200. The special prize opening time timer is for measuring the time for driving the shutter 40 and opening the special prize opening 39. Note that the timer in the present embodiment is stored and updated in the main RAM 70 so as to be subtracted by the predetermined cycle at a predetermined cycle. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the CPU itself may include a timer. .

  The big prize opening number-of-times counter indicates the number of times the big prize opening is opened (so-called round number) in the big hit gaming state. The grand prize winning prize counter indicates the number of game balls that have won the big prize winning prize during one round and have passed the V / count sensor 102 or the count sensor 104. Furthermore, data indicating the number of reserved balls related to the special symbol (so-called start memory number counter) is the start of the special symbol game when the game ball is won at the start ports 25 and 44 but the special symbol variation display cannot be executed. Is held, but the number of times the special symbol game is held is shown. That is, the data indicating the number of reserved balls regarding the special symbol indicates the number of stored start memory information (start memory information will be described later). Furthermore, the data indicating the number of reserved balls related to the normal symbol holds the start of the normal symbol game when the game ball passes through the passing gates 54a and 54b but the normal symbol variation display cannot be executed. Indicates the number of hold times of normal symbol games. The round number display counter indicates the number of rounds displayed on the round number display 51.

  In addition, a special symbol storage area and a normal symbol storage area are positioned and stored in the main RAM 70.

  The special symbol storage area stores start memory information including a jackpot determination random number corresponding to one variable display in the special symbol game. The start storage information is stored when a predetermined special symbol variable display start condition (a predetermined display identification information variable display start condition) is not satisfied. Further, such start-up storage information includes a jackpot determination random number value and the like, and is for determining the result of variable display of identification information. Further, among the start memory information, the start memory information including the jackpot determination random number value indicating that the special symbol becomes a specific numeric symbol is referred to as specific start memory information.

  The special symbol storage area includes a special symbol storage area (0) to a special symbol storage area (4). The special symbol storage area (0) stores data corresponding to the special symbol game currently being executed. The special symbol storage area (1) to the special symbol storage area (4) store data corresponding to the special symbol game to be executed after the currently executed special symbol game is completed. That is, when all the data from the special symbol storage area (0) to the special symbol storage area (4) is clear data, the special symbol game is not executed and a hold for executing variable display is also performed. It will not be. When the special symbol game is over, the data of the special symbol memory area (1) to the special symbol memory area (4) is shifted from the special symbol memory area (0) to the special symbol memory area (3). The clear data is stored in the special symbol storage area (4). As a result, the special symbol storage area is updated. On the other hand, the normal symbol storage area also includes the normal symbol storage area (0) to the normal symbol storage area (4), as in the special symbol storage area. Further, as in the special symbol storage area, update control of the normal symbol storage area is performed.

  Further, the start storage information stored in such a special symbol storage area is read out before the variable display of the identification information based on the start storage information is executed, and it is determined whether or not it is the specific start storage information. (So-called “preliminary determination”) may be performed. For example, when a special symbol game is being played and the number of reserved balls is two, that is, when starting memory information is stored from the special symbol storage area (1) to the special symbol storage area (2). When the game ball wins at the start port 25 or the start port 44, the start memory information is stored in the special symbol storage area (3). Then, it is determined whether or not the start storage information stored in the special symbol storage area (3) is the specific start storage information.

  The main control circuit 60 also has a command for a reset clock pulse generating circuit 62 that generates a clock pulse of a predetermined frequency, an initial reset circuit 64 that generates a reset signal when the power is turned on, and a sub-control circuit 200 described later. IC for serial communication 72 is provided. The reset clock pulse generation circuit 62, the initial reset circuit 64, and the serial communication IC 72 are connected to the main CPU 66. The reset clock pulse generation circuit 62 generates a clock pulse every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds) in order to execute a system timer interrupt process to be described later.

  Also, various devices are connected to the main control circuit 60. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the V / count sensor 102, the count sensor 104, the general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, 112, and the passage The ball sensors 114 and 115, the start winning ball sensors 116 and 117, the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118, the big prize opening solenoid 120, the seesaw solenoid 122, and the backup clear switch 124 are connected.

  The V / count sensor 102 is provided in a specific area in the special winning opening 39. The V / count sensor 102 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when a game ball passes through a specific area in the special winning opening 39.

  The count sensor 104 is provided in a general area different from the specific area in the special winning opening 39. The count sensor 104 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game ball passes through the general area at the special winning opening 39.

  The general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, and 112 are provided in the general winning ports 56a to 56d, respectively. The general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, and 112 supply a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game balls pass through the general winning ports 56 a to 56 d.

  The passing ball sensors 114 and 115 are provided at the passing gates 54a and 54b, respectively. The passing ball sensors 114 and 115 supply a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game balls pass through the passing gates 54a and 54b, respectively.

  Start winning ball sensors 116 and 117 which are game ball detecting means are provided at the start ports 25 and 44, respectively. The start winning ball sensors 116 and 117 detect that a game ball has won (passed) at the start ports 25 and 44 and supply a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60. The variable display game described above is displayed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32 in response to the detection of the game ball by the start winning ball sensors 116 and 117.

  The normal electric accessory solenoid 118 is connected to the blade member 48 via a link member (not shown), and makes the blade member 48 open or closed according to a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66. .

  The big prize opening solenoid 120 is connected to the shutter 40 and drives the shutter 40 in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66 to make the big prize opening open or closed.

  The seesaw solenoid 122 is connected to a seesaw (not shown) provided in the shutter 40 in the shape of a plate. The seesaw solenoid 122 is displaced in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66 to tilt the seesaw. change. As a result of tilting the seesaw, the seesaw is switched so as to easily pass through the specific region or to pass through the general region.

  The backup clear switch 124 is built in the pachinko gaming machine 10 and has a function of clearing backup data in the event of a power failure or the like in accordance with the operation of the game hall manager.

  The main control circuit 60 is connected to a payout / launch control circuit 126. The payout / launch control circuit 126 is connected to a payout device 128 that pays out game balls, a launch device 130 that fires game balls, and a card unit 150.

  The payout / launch control circuit 126 receives a prize ball control command supplied from the main control circuit 60 and a lending ball control signal supplied from the card unit 150, and transmits a predetermined signal to the payout device 128. Then, the payout device 128 pays out the game ball. Further, the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a control of launching a game ball by supplying a launch signal to the launch device 130.

  Further, a lamp control circuit 76 for controlling the lamp 74 is connected to the main control circuit 60, and the lamp 74 is connected to the lamp control circuit 76. The lamp control circuit 76 supplies a lamp (LED) control signal to the lamp 74. The lamp 74 includes incandescent bulbs, LEDs, and the like. Specifically, the special symbol holding lamps 34a to 34d, the normal symbol holding lamps 50a to 50d, the special symbol display device 33 (7-segment LED 41), and the normal symbol display device 35. (Display lamp), round number display 51 and the like.

  On the other hand, the sub-control circuit 200 is connected to the serial communication IC 72. The sub control circuit 200 performs display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, control related to sound generated from the speaker 46, control of the lamp 132, and the like in accordance with various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60. Note that the lamp 132 includes an incandescent lamp, an LED, and the like, specifically, a decorative lamp (not shown) that displays light and dark on the game board 14.

  In the present embodiment, the command is supplied from the main control circuit 60 to the sub control circuit 200 and the signal cannot be supplied from the sub control circuit 200 to the main control circuit 60. The present invention is not limited to this, and there is no problem even if it is configured such that a signal can be transmitted from the sub control circuit 200 to the main control circuit 60.

  The sub control circuit 200 includes an identification information stop game control means, a sub CPU 206 as sound generation control means, a program ROM 208 as storage means, a work RAM 210, a display control circuit 250 for performing display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, and a speaker 46. The voice control circuit 230 controls the sound generated from the lamp, and the lamp control circuit 240 controls the lamp 132 such as a decorative lamp. The sub-control circuit 200 executes an effect according to the progress of the game in accordance with a command from the main control circuit 60.

  A program ROM 208, a work RAM 210, and the like are connected to the sub CPU 206. The sub CPU 206 has a function of executing various processes according to the program stored in the program ROM 208. In particular, the sub CPU 206 controls the sub control circuit 200 in accordance with various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60, as will be described later.

  The program ROM 208 stores a program for controlling the game effect of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the sub CPU 206, and also stores various tables such as a table for making a decision regarding the effect. A specific program will be described later.

  The program ROM 208 stores a plurality of types of effect patterns. These effect patterns relate to the progress of the effect display executed in association with the special symbol variation display. The program ROM 208 stores effect patterns during execution of a plurality of types of special games. The effect pattern during execution of the special game relates to the progress of the effect display executed in relation to the round game in the special game.

  In this embodiment, the main control circuit 60 uses the main ROM 68 and the sub control circuit 200 uses the program ROM 208 as storage means for storing programs, tables, and the like. However, the present invention is not limited to this. As long as it is a storage medium readable by a computer equipped with a computer, a program, a table, etc. are recorded on a storage medium such as a hard disk device, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, or a ROM cartridge. May be. Of course, the main ROM 68 may be used as an alternative to the program ROM 208. Even if these programs are not recorded in advance, they may be downloaded after the power is turned on and recorded in the main RAM 70 in the main control circuit 60, the work RAM 210 in the sub control circuit 200, and the like. . Furthermore, each program may be recorded on a separate storage medium.

  The work RAM 210 has a function of storing various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206. For example, a timer variable for controlling the reach effect time, an effect display selection random number counter for selecting an effect pattern, various variables, and the like are positioned.

  In this embodiment, the main RAM 70 is used as the temporary storage area of the main CPU 66 and the work RAM 210 is used as the temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any readable / writable storage medium may be used.

  A display control circuit 250 functioning as a variable display control means includes an image data processor (hereinafter referred to as VDP) 212, an image data ROM 216 for storing various image data, a D / A converter 218 for converting image data as an image signal, It comprises an initial reset circuit 220 that generates a reset signal when the power is turned on.

  The VDP 212 described above is connected to the sub CPU 206, the image data ROM 216, the D / A converter 218, and the initial reset circuit 220.

  The VDP 212 includes a so-called sprite circuit, a screen circuit, a pallet circuit, and the like, and is a device that can perform various processes for causing the liquid crystal display device 32 to display an image. That is, the VDP 212 performs display control for the liquid crystal display device 32. Further, the VDP 212 includes a storage medium (for example, a video RAM) as a buffer for displaying an image on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. By storing the image data in a predetermined storage area of the storage medium, an image is displayed on the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 at a predetermined timing.

  In the image data ROM 216, effect identification information image data indicating effect identification information, and an image for displaying an effect screen at the time of re-variation as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 or FIGS. Various kinds of image data such as data and image data for displaying the result of operation of the operation button 80 as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 or FIGS. 22 and 23 described later are stored separately. Of course, related image data indicating a related image is also stored.

  The VDP 212 reads various image data such as effect identification information image data, effect image data used for a plurality of types of reach effects and jackpot effects, from the image data ROM 216 in accordance with an image display command supplied from the sub CPU 206. Then, image data to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 is generated. The VDP 212 superimposes the generated image data in order from the image data located at the rear, stores the image data in a buffer, and supplies the data to the D / A converter 218 at a predetermined timing. The D / A converter 218 converts the image data as an image signal and supplies the image signal to the liquid crystal display device 32, thereby causing the liquid crystal display device 32 to display an image. As described above, the display control circuit 250 is an example of a display control unit that performs control to display the setting menu screen on the liquid crystal display device 32 when the sub CPU 206 performs control to switch to the effect selection function.

  The audio control circuit 230 includes a sound source IC 232 that controls audio, an audio data ROM 234 that stores various audio data, and an amplifier 236 (hereinafter referred to as AMP) for amplifying audio signals.

  The sound source IC 232 is connected to the sub CPU 206, the initial reset circuit 220, the audio data ROM 234, and the AMP 236. The sound source IC 232 controls sound generated from the speaker 46.

  The lamp control circuit 240 includes a drive circuit 242 for supplying a lamp control signal and a decoration data ROM 244 in which a plurality of types of lamp decoration patterns are stored. The lamp control circuit 240 is directly controlled by the sub CPU 206 described above. That is, the sub CPU 206 controls various lamps 132 such as decorative lamps in accordance with a program stored in the program ROM 208.

  The sub CPU 206 reads one type of lamp decoration pattern from a plurality of types of lamp decoration patterns stored in the decoration data ROM 244, and supplies a predetermined light emission signal to the drive circuit 242 based on the lamp decoration pattern. The drive circuit 242 turns on, blinks, and turns off the lamp 132 such as a decorative lamp based on the received predetermined light emission signal.

[Game machine operation]
The processing executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 is shown in FIGS. 10 to 19 below. Moreover, the state transition of the special symbol control process (FIG. 12) performed with the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

[Main processing]
First, as shown in FIG. 10, RAM access permission, backup recovery processing, initialization of the work area, and initial setting processing such as a start memory number counter are executed (step S11). Then, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 12, a special symbol control process related to the progress of the special symbol game, the special symbol on the special symbol display 33, and the identification information for presentation displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 is executed ( Step S15). As described above, in the main process, after the initial setting process in step S11 is completed, the process in step S15 is repeatedly executed.

[System timer interrupt processing]
Further, the main CPU 66 may interrupt the main process and execute the system timer interrupt process even when the main process is being executed. The following system timer interrupt process is executed in response to a clock pulse generated from the reset clock pulse generation circuit 62 every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds). This system timer interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 11, the main CPU 66 updates the random numbers so that the count values of the big hit determination random number counter, the big hit symbol determination random number counter, the round number display effect start counter, etc. are incremented by “1”. Processing is executed (step S42). An input detection process for detecting winning or passing of game balls such as the start ports 25 and 44 is executed (step S43). A waiting time timer for synchronizing the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200, a big prize opening time timer for measuring the opening time of the big prize opening 39 that is opened when a big hit occurs, etc. Various timer update processes are executed (step S44). Then, an output process is executed in order to supply a signal for drive control based on various variables to a solenoid, a motor or the like (step S46). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S47.

  In step S47, command output processing is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 supplies various commands to the sub control circuit 200. Specifically, these various commands include a demonstration display command, a stop design designation command for effect indicating the type of effect identification information to be stopped and displayed in the left column, the middle column, and the right column, and an identification for effect. A variation pattern designation command indicating a variation pattern of information, a specific effect image display command, and the like are included. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S49.

  In the process of step S49, the main CPU 66 executes a payout process such as transmitting a prize ball control command for causing the payout device 128 to perform a prize ball to the payout / firing control circuit 126. Further, the main CPU 66 supplies the payout / firing control circuit 126 with a prize ball control command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls as a result of game balls winning in various winning holes. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished, the address is returned to the address before the occurrence of the interrupt, and the main process is executed.

[Special symbol control processing]
The subroutine executed in step S15 in FIG. 10 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 12, the numerical values drawn on the sides of step S72 to step S81 indicate control state flags corresponding to those steps, and one step corresponding to the numerical value according to the numerical value of the control state flag. Will be executed and the special symbol game will proceed.

  First, as shown in FIG. 12, a process for loading a control state flag is executed (step S71). In this process, the main CPU 66 as a control means for controlling the execution of the variable display game reads the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S72.

  In steps S72 to S80, which will be described later, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to perform various processes in each step based on the value of the control state flag, as will be described later. This control state flag indicates the game state of the special symbol game, and enables one of the processes from step S72 to step S81 to be executed. In addition, the main CPU 66 executes processing in each step at a predetermined timing determined according to a waiting time timer or the like set for each step. Before reaching the predetermined timing, the process ends without executing the process in each step, and another subroutine is executed. Of course, the system timer interrupt process is also executed at a predetermined cycle.

  In step S72, a special symbol memory check process is executed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S73.

  In step S73, a special symbol variation time management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets the value (02) indicating the special symbol display time management to the control state flag when the control state flag is the value (01) indicating the special symbol variation time management. Set the waiting time after confirmation (for example, 1 second) in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the process of step S74 is executed after the waiting time after determination has elapsed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S74.

  In step S74, a special symbol display time management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not it is a big hit when the control state flag is a value (02) indicating special symbol display time management and the waiting time after determination has elapsed. In the case of a big hit, the main CPU 66 sets a value (03) indicating the big hit start interval management in the control state flag, and sets a time (for example, 10 seconds) corresponding to the big hit start interval in the waiting time timer. That is, after the time corresponding to the big hit start interval elapses, the setting of step S75 is performed. On the other hand, the main CPU 66 sets a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game when it is not a big hit. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S81. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S75.

  In step S75, a big hit start interval management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 has a value (03) indicating that the control status flag indicates the jackpot start interval management, and when the time corresponding to the jackpot start interval has elapsed, the main winning prize port 39 read from the main ROM 68 is obtained. Is stored in the main RAM 70. Then, in the process of step S46 in FIG. 11, the main CPU 66 reads data for opening the big prize opening 39 stored in the main RAM 70, and sends a signal for opening the big prize opening 39 to the big prize opening solenoid. 120. As described above, the main CPU 66 and the like perform opening / closing control of the special winning opening 39. That is, one round game in which a predetermined advantageous gaming state (a gaming state from an open state where the big winning opening 39 easily accepts a game ball to a closed state where the big winning opening 39 hardly accepts a gaming ball) is provided a plurality of times. A special game that may be repeated is executed.

  Further, the main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the big prize opening is being opened in the control state flag, and sets the upper opening limit time (for example, 30 seconds) in the big prize opening time timer. That is, it sets so that the process of step S78 may be performed. Further, the main CPU 66 assigns a predetermined number (for example, “15”) to the round number display counter in the main RAM 70. Further, the main CPU 66 starts measuring the execution time of the special game using the special game execution time timer in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S76.

  In step S76, a round number display management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 selects one round number display pattern from a plurality of types of round number display patterns stored in the main ROM 68 based on the numbers assigned to the round number display counter stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. And the selected round number display pattern is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70.

  The data indicating the round number display pattern stored in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 is a signal (round number display control signal) for controlling the display of the round number display 51 by the process of step S46 in FIG. Is transmitted to the lamp control circuit 76. When the lamp control circuit 76 receives the round number display control signal, the lamp control circuit 76 performs display control of the round number display 51 based on the round number display control signal. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S77.

  In step S77, a waiting time management process before reopening the big winning opening is executed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 sets the special winning opening opening number counter when the control status flag is a value (06) indicating the waiting time management before the big winning opening reopening and the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed. The memory is updated so that “1” is increased. The main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the special winning opening is open in the control state flag. The main CPU 66 sets an opening upper limit time (for example, 30 seconds) in the big prize opening time timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S78. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S78.

  In step S78, a special winning opening opening process is executed. In this process, when the control state flag is a value (04) indicating that the big prize opening is being opened, the main CPU 66 has passed the condition that the big prize opening prize counter is “10” or more, and the opening upper limit time ( It is determined whether or not any of the conditions that the big winning opening opening time timer is “0” is satisfied. The main CPU 66 updates a variable positioned in the main RAM 70 in order to close the special winning opening 39 when any of the conditions is satisfied. The main CPU 66 sets a value (05) indicating monitoring of the winning ball remaining ball in the control state flag. The main CPU 66 sets the extra ball remaining ball monitoring time (for example, 1 second) in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the process of step S79 is executed after the winning ball residual ball monitoring time has elapsed. Note that the main CPU 66 does not execute the above-described processing when none of the conditions is satisfied. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S79.

  In step S79, a special winning opening residual ball monitoring process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 has a value (05) indicating that the control state flag indicates the supervised ball residual ball monitoring, and the game ball is placed in a specific area in the special payout port 39 when the supervised mouth residual ball monitoring time has elapsed. The special prize opening number counter is “2” (when the specific number symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 33 is “3”) or “15” (special symbol display) In step 33, it is determined whether or not any of the conditions that the specific number symbol stopped and displayed is “7” or more (the last round) is satisfied. When any of the conditions is satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (07) indicating the jackpot end interval in the control state flag, and sets a time corresponding to the jackpot end interval in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the big hit end interval has elapsed, the setting of step S80 is executed. Further, the main CPU 66 increments the special game number counter in the main RAM 70 by “1”.

  On the other hand, when neither of the conditions is satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (06) indicating the management of the big winning opening reopening waiting time before the big winning opening reopening to the control state flag. Further, the main CPU 66 updates the storage so that “1” is subtracted from the round number display counter stored in the main RAM 70. Further, the main CPU 66 sets a time corresponding to the interval between rounds in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed, the setting of step S76 is executed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S80.

  In step S80, jackpot end interval processing is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets the value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game to the control state when the control state flag is a value (07) indicating the jackpot end interval and the time corresponding to the jackpot end interval has elapsed. Set to flag. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S81. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S81.

  In step S81, a special symbol game end process is executed. In this process, when the control state flag is a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game, the main CPU 66 updates the memory (starting storage information) indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the special symbol so as to decrease by “1”. To do. Further, the main CPU 66 sets data indicating a start memory number designation command indicating that the start memory information is decreased by “1” in a predetermined storage area in the main RAM 70. Then, the main CPU 66 updates the special symbol storage area in order to perform the next fluctuation display. The main CPU 66 sets a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S72. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  As described above, the special symbol game is executed by setting the control state flag. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 13, the main CPU 66 sets the control status flag to “00”, “01”, “02”, when the big hit determination result is lost in the case where it is not the big hit gaming state. By setting “08” in order, the processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S81 shown in FIG. 12 is executed at a predetermined timing. Further, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag in the order of “00”, “01”, “02”, “03” when the result of the big hit determination is a big hit when it is not the big hit gaming state, The processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S75 shown in FIG. 12 is executed at a predetermined timing, and control to the big hit gaming state is executed. Furthermore, when the control to the big hit gaming state is executed, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flags in order of “04”, “05”, “06”, thereby performing step S78 shown in FIG. The process of step S79 and step S77 is executed at a predetermined timing, and a special game is executed. If the special game (big hit game state) end condition (special game end condition, big hit game end condition) is satisfied, “04”, “05”, “07”, “08” should be set in order. Thus, the processing from step S78 to step S81 shown in FIG. 12 is executed at a predetermined timing, and the special game is ended. In the present embodiment, the game ball has not passed through the specific area (puncture) until a predetermined time has elapsed, and the maximum number of continuous rounds (in this embodiment, “2” rounds or “15 The end of the “round” round game is also a special game end condition.

[Special symbol memory check processing]
The subroutine executed in step S72 in FIG. 12 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 14, in step S100, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the control state flag is a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check. If it is determined that the control state flag is a value indicating a special symbol storage check, the process proceeds to step S105. If it is determined that the control state flag is not a value indicating a special symbol storage check, this subroutine is terminated. To do.

  In step S105, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the number of reserved symbols related to the special symbol is “0”. If it is determined that the data indicating the reserved number related to the special symbol is “0”, the process proceeds to step S110, and if it is determined that the data indicating the reserved number is not “0”, the process proceeds to step S115. Transfer.

  In step S110, a demonstration display process is executed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 stores a variable for supplying a demonstration display command to the sub control circuit 200 in the main RAM 70 in order to display a demonstration image on the screen. In step S <b> 47 of FIG. 11, the main CPU 66 transmits a demonstration display command to the sub-control circuit 200 based on the variables stored in the main RAM 70. As a result, the sub-control circuit 200 displays the demonstration image on the screen. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S115, a process of setting a value (01) indicating special symbol variation time management as a control state flag is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a value indicating special symbol variation time management in the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S120.

  In step S120, a jackpot determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 selects a jackpot determination value stored in the jackpot determination table. Then, the main CPU 66 refers to the jackpot determination random number value extracted at the time of starting winning and the jackpot determination value. That is, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to make a big hit gaming state advantageous to the player, that is, whether or not to shift from the normal gaming state to the special gaming state advantageous to the player. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S125. Thus, the main CPU 66 is an example of lottery means for lottery of whether or not to shift to a gaming state advantageous to the player.

  In step S125, it is determined whether or not it is a big hit. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not it is a big hit based on the result of the reference in step S120. If the main CPU 66 determines that it is a big hit, it moves the process to step S130, and if it determines that it is not a big hit, moves the process to step S135.

  In step S130, a jackpot symbol determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts the jackpot symbol random number value extracted at the time of starting winning, determines the special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 33 based on the jackpot symbol determination random number value, Data indicating the special symbol is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S140.

  In step S135, an off symbol determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts a random symbol value for determining a symbol out of the random symbol counter for determining a symbol out of symbol, and based on the random value for determining a symbol out of symbol, the special symbol display unit 33 displays the special symbol as a loss symbol. The data indicating the special symbol is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S140.

  In step S140, a variation pattern determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts a rendering condition selection random value. The main CPU 66 selects the variation pattern distribution table for determining the variation pattern of the effect display based on the special symbol determined in step S135 and step S140, that is, based on the lottery result by the processing in step S120. . Here, the change pattern of effect display means a change display pattern of identification information for effect, a change display pattern of effect images, a notice effect pattern, and the like. Based on the variation pattern of the effect display, the game that repeatedly performs the variation display and stop display of the identification information for the effect is controlled, and the display of the effect image is controlled. Then, the main CPU 66 determines an effect display variation pattern based on the effect condition selection random number extracted from the effect condition selection random number counter and the selected variation pattern distribution table, and stores it in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. To do. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S145.

  In step S140, the data indicating the variation pattern of the effect display stored in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 is transferred from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S47 in FIG. Supplied as a fluctuation pattern designation command. The sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 selects an effect pattern based on the received variation pattern designation command, stores the selected effect pattern in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210, and based on the stored effect pattern, Data for displaying the effect pattern is transmitted to the display control circuit 250.

  Further, in step S140, the main CPU 66 has a function as a control means for controlling the progress of the game in which the special symbol which is the identification information is repeatedly displayed and stopped.

  That is, in step S140, based on the data indicating the special symbol stored in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 by the processing of step S135 and step S140, the main CPU 66 uses the plurality of types of LED lighting patterns stored in the main ROM 68. Then, one LED lighting pattern is selected, and the selected LED lighting pattern is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70.

  The data indicating the LED lighting pattern stored in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 is used as a signal (special symbol drive control signal) for driving and controlling the special symbol display 33 by the process of step S46 in FIG. Are transmitted to the lamp control circuit 76. When the lamp control circuit 76 receives the special symbol drive control signal, the lamp control circuit 76 performs display control of the special symbol display 33 based on the special symbol drive control signal. With the above processing, the special symbol display unit 33 displays the special symbol in a variably manner, and the special symbol that has been variably displayed is stopped and displayed after a predetermined time.

  In step S145, a process of setting a variation time corresponding to the determined variation pattern for production in the waiting time timer is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the variation time corresponding to the effect variation pattern determined by the process of step S140 from the table, and stores a value indicating the variation time in the waiting time timer. Then, a process of clearing the storage area in which the jackpot determination random number used for the current variation display is stored is executed (step S150). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished. As described above, the main CPU 66 is an example of a game execution control unit that controls execution of a game using a game medium (for example, a game ball).

[Operation of sub-control circuit]
On the other hand, the sub control circuit 200 receives various commands transmitted from the main control circuit 60 and executes the following effects.

[Main processing]
Next, main processing by the sub CPU 206 will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the main processing by the sub CPU.

  First, as shown in FIG. 15, in step S1500, processing for executing initialization processing is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 restores the register to the state before the power interruption state or initializes a work area such as the work RAM 210. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1510.

  In step S1510, information analysis processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 analyzes the various commands sent from the main control circuit 60 in step S47, and enters the work RAM 210 (see FIG. 9) based on the on / off state of the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4). Processing for storing the flag is performed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1520.

  In step S1520, an identification symbol setting process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of setting a 3-digit number as an effect identification symbol 94 (see FIG. 5) for notifying the lottery result of whether or not the big hit based on the command analysis result in step S1510. Do. More specifically, an odd number of double digits is set for probability variation big hits, an even number of double digits for normal big hits, and a three-digit number other than the double digits for a loss. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1530.

  In step S1530, an effect pattern setting process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of setting an effect pattern for deriving and displaying a combination of three-digit numbers as the effect identification symbol 94 (see FIG. 5) set in step S1520. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1540.

  In step S1540, display control processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 stores data for displaying the effect image from the program ROM 208 in the work RAM 210 and transmits the data to the display control circuit 250. In the display control circuit 250, the VDP 212 reads various image data such as background image data and effect image data from the image data ROM 216 based on data for displaying the effect image from the sub CPU 206, and superimposes them. The image is displayed on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. Details of this processing will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1550. Thus, the sub CPU 206 sets the stop display mode of the identification information based on the lottery result by the lottery means (for example, the main CPU 66 (see FIG. 9)) and displays the display means (for example, the liquid crystal display device 32 (see FIG. 5)). This is an example of the effect control means for performing the control to display the effect contents set based on the lottery result of the lottery means (for example, the main CPU 66 (see FIG. 9)).

  In step S1550, voice control processing is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 transmits data for generating a predetermined sound from the speaker 46 to the sound control circuit 230 in accordance with a command from the main control circuit 60. As a result, the sound control circuit 230 can control the sound of the speaker 46 by outputting a sound signal for generating a predetermined sound to the speaker 46. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1560.

  In step S1560, lamp control processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 transmits to the lamp control circuit 240 data for lighting operations such as lamps for decoration (decorative lamps 133a, 133b, etc.) in response to a command from the main control circuit 60. As a result, the lamp control circuit 240 can output to a lamp or the like for lighting the lamp or the like, and control the blinking operation of the lamp or the like. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1510.

[Display control processing]
The display control process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S1600, effect pattern display processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 stores data for displaying an effect image from the program ROM 208 in the work RAM 210 based on the effect pattern set in step S1530 and transmits the data to the display control circuit 250. In the display control circuit 250, the VDP 212 reads various image data such as background image data and effect image data from the image data ROM 216 based on data for displaying the effect image from the sub CPU 206, and superimposes them. The image is displayed on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1610.

  In step S1610, processing for determining whether or not there is a re-change effect is performed. In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that there is a re-variation effect based on the value related to the state flag included in the effect command, the process moves to step S1620 and does not determine that there is a re-change effect. In that case, the process proceeds to step S1640.

  In step S1620, processing for determining whether or not a re-variation effect has been reached is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of determining whether or not the re-change effect has been reached in the image display of the liquid crystal display device 32 by the display control circuit 250. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, a character image 96 is displayed and an image until the syringe image 92c is inserted into the character image 92a is displayed. If it is determined that the re-variation effect has been reached, the process proceeds to step S1625. If it is not determined that the re-change effect has been reached, the process proceeds to step S1640.

  In step S1625, processing for determining whether or not “1” is set in the update flag is performed. In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that “1” is set in the update flag, the process proceeds to step S1640. If it is not determined that “1” is set in the update flag, the process proceeds to step S1630. Here, the update flag is a flag that is set when the process proceeds to the next step S1630, that is, the effect content switching process subroutine.

  In step S1630, effect content switching processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of switching a part of the effect pattern set in step S1530 to another effect pattern and determining subsequent effect patterns shown in FIG. This process will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1640. As described above, the sub CPU 206 operates the operation means (for example, while the display means (for example, the liquid crystal display device 32 (see FIG. 5)) is performing the variable display of the identification information (for example, the identification symbol 94 (see FIG. 5)). For example, when the operation time of the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4) is within a predetermined time range, this is an example of an effect content switching control unit that performs control to switch effect content until the identification information is stopped and displayed.

  In step S1640, a process for determining whether or not the effect has ended is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not the image display by the effect based on the effect pattern set in step S1530 or step S1630 has been completed in the image display of the liquid crystal display device 32 by the display control circuit 250. Do. If it is determined that the effect has ended, the process proceeds to step S1650. If it is not determined that the effect has ended, this subroutine ends.

  In step S1650, a process for setting the update flag to “0” is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 initializes an update flag that is set when a predetermined process, which will be described later, is performed in step S <b> 1630, that is, an update flag that indicates that the effect content is not switched is “0”. Perform processing to set. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Production content switching process]
The subroutine executed in step S1630 in FIG. 16 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S1705, each timer initialization process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 initializes an effective time timer that counts the time during which the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4) can be operated and an operation time timer that counts the operation time of the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4). Process. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1710.

  In step S1710, operation button validation processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process for making the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4) operable. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1715.

  In step S1715, processing for counting the valid time timer is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of starting counting of the valid time timer and continuing counting until it stops. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1720.

  In step S1720, it is determined whether or not the valid time timer has counted a predetermined time. In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that the predetermined time has elapsed based on the count value of the valid time timer, the process proceeds to step S1725, and if it is not determined that the predetermined time has elapsed, The process moves to S1760.

  In step S1725, processing is performed to determine whether or not the player has turned on the operation button. In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that the operation button is turned on based on the output generated by the operation of the operation button 80, the process proceeds to step S <b> 1730 and the operation button is turned on. If it is not determined that the process has been performed, the process proceeds to step S1715.

  In step S1730, the effective time timer is stopped. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 performs processing for stopping the valid time timer. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1735.

  In step S1735, an operation time counting process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 functions as an operation time timer by updating the contents stored in a part of the storage area of the work RAM 210 at regular intervals. Then, counting of the operation time timer is started to count the operation time, and processing for switching the display image of the liquid crystal display device 32 is performed as shown in FIGS. 6 to 8 according to the operation time. Details of this processing will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1740. Thus, the sub CPU 206 is an example of a counting unit that counts the operation time of the operation unit (for example, the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4)).

  In step S1740, processing for determining whether or not the operation time is within the valid time range is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 compares the count value of the operation time timer with a preset valid time range, and if it is determined that the operation time is within the valid time range, the process proceeds to step S1745. If it is not determined that the operation time is within the valid time range, the process proceeds to step S1750.

  In step S1745, effect pattern update processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of updating a part of the effect pattern set in step S1530 to another pattern. Details of this processing will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1750.

  In step S1750, a process for setting the update flag to “1” is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of setting an update flag indicating “1” that the content of the effect produced by the operation of the operation button 80 is confirmed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1755.

  In step S1755, an operation button invalidation process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of invalidating the operation of the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished. That is, the operation of the operation button (see FIG. 4) is valid only during the effect content switching process in step S1630. As described above, the sub CPU 206 performs the operation invalidation control for performing the control to invalidate the operation by the operation unit when the operation time of the operation unit (for example, the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4)) is out of the predetermined time range. It is an example of a means.

  In step S1760, the effective time timer is stopped. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 performs processing for stopping the valid time timer. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1750.

[Operation time counting process]
The subroutine executed in step S1735 in FIG. 17 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S1800, processing for starting counting of the operation time timer is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 performs processing for starting counting of the operation time timer. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1810.

  In step S1810, an effect button effect image overlay process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 stores data for displaying the effect image from the program ROM 208 in the work RAM 210 based on the count value of the operation time timer, and transmits the data to the display control circuit 250. In the display control circuit 250, the VDP 212 reads various image data such as background image data and effect image data from the image data ROM 216 based on data for displaying the effect image from the sub CPU 206, and superimposes them. The image is displayed on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1820.

  In step S1820, processing for determining whether or not the operation time of operation button 80 (see FIG. 4) has passed for a predetermined time is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not the time during which the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4) is on exceeds a predetermined time based on the output generated by the operation of the operation button 80. If it is determined that the number has been exceeded, the process proceeds to step S1830. If it is not determined that the number has been exceeded, the process proceeds to step S1840.

  In step S1830, processing for determining whether or not the operation button is turned off is performed. In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4) is turned off based on the output generated by the operation of the operation button 80, the process proceeds to step S1840, and the operation button If it is not determined that 80 (see FIG. 4) is turned off, the process proceeds to step S1800.

  In step S1840, an operation time timer stop process is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 performs processing for stopping the operation time timer. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1850.

  In step S1850, operation button effect image overlay stop processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs operation button effect image overlay stop processing. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  By such an operation time counting process, specifically, the medicine image contained in the syringe image 92c shown in FIG. 5 is switched, and an image corresponding to the count value of the operation time timer is displayed as shown in FIG. The amount of medicine displayed changes. In other words, the medicine image contained in the syringe image 92c can be changed according to the operation time of the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4).

[Production pattern update processing]
The subroutine executed in step S1745 in FIG. 17 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S1900, special effect pattern selection processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of selecting a predetermined special reach effect pattern by table lottery from a plurality of special effect patterns as the effect pattern after the change of the identification symbol 94 (see FIG. 5). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1910.

  In step S1910, special effect pattern update processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of updating the effect pattern after the change in the effect pattern set in step S1530 to the effect pattern selected in step S1900. For example, if a reach occurs after re-variation, the reach effect pattern portion set in step S1530 is changed to a special reach effect pattern. As a result, after the effect image shown in FIG. 7 is displayed, the effect image based on the special reach effect pattern is displayed. When the operation time is not within the predetermined range and the reach does not occur after re-variation, the effect image shown in FIG. 8 is displayed, and when the operation time is within the predetermined range, If reach does not occur after re-variation, a special effect image different from the effect image shown in FIG. 8 is displayed. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished. As described above, the sub CPU 206 changes the effect of the effect means (for example, the liquid crystal display device 32 (see FIG. 5)) based on the operation of the operation means (for example, the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4)) by the player. It is an example of effect control means for performing control. Further, the sub CPU 206 performs an effect unit (for example, based on the operation of the operation unit (for example, the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4)) by the player according to the counting result of the counting unit (for example, the sub CPU 206 (see FIG. 9)). This is an example of effect control means for performing control to change the effect contents of the liquid crystal display device 32 (see FIG. 5).

  Such a process makes it possible to operate the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4) as if it were an injection. Further, if the operation time of the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4) is within the valid time range, the player can see a special reach effect different from the normal, and improve the interest of the game. Is possible.

  If reach has occurred in step S1530, depending on the reach reliability (probability of being a big hit), for example, if the reliability is high, the effective time range is lengthened and the syringe image 92c When the amount of medicine is slowly changed and the reliability is low, the effective time range is shortened and the amount of medicine in the syringe image 92c is changed quickly, so that the possibility of the reach development due to re-variation and the possibility of big hit It may be a sign of sex.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, since the contents of the effect change according to the operation time of the operation means (for example, the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4)), the player can operate the operation means (for example, the operation button 80). By changing the operation time of (see FIG. 4), it becomes possible to make various effects appear and the interest of the operation of the push button (for example, the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4)) is improved. In this way, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can improve the interest of the game by operating the push button (for example, the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4)) by the player.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, the effect content is set based on the lottery result by the main CPU 66 (see FIG. 9) and the operation time of the operation means (for example, the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4)). Even if the lottery results are the same, the design of reach production when the identification information is in the reach display mode due to the difference in the operation time of the operation means (for example, the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4)). Etc.) can appear. For this reason, the interest of the push button operation itself is improved, and it becomes possible to provide a gaming machine that can improve the interest of the game by the operation of the push button by the player.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, when the operation time of the operation means (for example, the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4)) is outside the predetermined time range, the operation by the operation means (for example, the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4)). Since this becomes invalid, a certain amount of skill is required to make the production contents different. For this reason, it becomes possible to provide a new interest of finding the operation timing of the operation means (for example, the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4)) for making the content of the production different. In this way, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can improve the interest of the game by operating the push button by the player.

  Next, another embodiment of the present invention will be described. In addition, about the member same as the member in embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-19, the same code | symbol was attached | subjected and detailed description was abbreviate | omitted.

  The mechanical structure of another embodiment described below is the same as that of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 19, and is different in an image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32.

[Description of display screen]
A display image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a display image of the liquid crystal display device 32. FIG. 5 shows a display example when the game ball launching function is selected, and in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 3, three identification symbols 94 that are identification information for presentation are displayed. . According to the present embodiment, the identification symbol 94 is composed of 0 to 9 numeric symbols. Then, on the condition that the game ball is launched on the game board 14 shown in FIG. 4 and enters the start port 25, the three identification symbols 94 change based on the lottery result by the main CPU 66 (see FIG. 9). / Stop display. Then, when the three identification symbols 94 are stopped and displayed in a predetermined combination (for example, all the same number symbols), the game becomes a big hit and shifts to a special game.

  In the variable display game, an effect image is displayed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32 together with the identification symbol 94. According to the present embodiment, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, a character image 92a of the main character (for example, a character image of a person (so-called Don-chan) who is wearing a twisted bee and wearing a red happi) Is displayed. Further, based on the lottery result by the main CPU 66 (see FIG. 9), the effect lottery for determining the content of the effect displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 is performed. Depending on the content of the effect set by the effect lottery, various sign images, for example, a character image 92b (for example, a person having a syringe and wearing a yukata (so-called Hazuki) in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32). Chan) character image etc.) is displayed.

  Next, a specific example of effect contents displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 will be described. According to another embodiment, the character images 92a and 92b are displayed by pressing the operation button 80 at any time regardless of whether or not the game is being played. FIG. 20 shows a display when the operation button 80 is pressed while the three identification symbols 94 are changing. Character images 92 a and 92 b are displayed while the identification symbols 94 are changing.

  Then, by continuing to press the operation button 80, the piston moves as shown in FIG. Here, since a range indicating an appropriate amount is displayed on the syringe, the player releases the operation button 80 so that the tip of the piston stops within this range. Then, when the tip of the piston stops in an appropriate amount range, as shown in FIG. 22, the character image 92a stands up and a character image 97 indicating the gaming state is displayed. In FIG. 22, “probability changing” is displayed to indicate that the state is surely changed. As the character image 97 indicating the gaming state, for example, there are displays such as “short time” and “normal”. The probability change state here is a game mode that uses a lottery table that has a higher probability of drawing a big hit than usual in a lottery table that performs a big hit lottery in a special symbol game or a variable display game, and the probability of winning a big hit is Extremely high. Time reduction is a game mode that uses a lottery table that has a higher probability of winning a big hit than usual in a lottery table that performs a big hit lottery in a normal symbol game, and the electric movable pieces provided at the start ports 25 and 44 are higher than usual. It becomes easy to open, and the opening time becomes long, so that many balls enter the start ports 25 and 44. As a result, the number of held balls tends to accumulate, and when there are many held balls, the time taken for the derivation display of the lottery result in the variable display game is shortened, so that a large number of variable display games are played in a short time. .

  In addition, the electrical configuration and processing of the main control circuit in another embodiment are the same as those in the embodiment shown in FIGS. Further, each process in the sub CPU 206 is substantially the same as that in FIG.

[Display control processing]
The display control process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S2400, processing is performed to determine whether or not the player has turned on the operation button. In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that the operation button has been turned on based on the output generated by the operation of the operation button 80, the process proceeds to step S2410 and does not determine that the operation button has been turned on. In that case, the process moves to step S2420.

  In step S2410, effect image overlay processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of setting data for superimposing various images related to the mode discrimination game on the effect pattern set in step S1530. This process will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S2420.

  In step S2420, effect pattern display processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 stores data for displaying an effect image from the program ROM 208 in the work RAM 210 based on the effect pattern set in step S1530 and transmits the data to the display control circuit 250. In the display control circuit 250, the VDP 212 reads various image data such as background image data and effect image data from the image data ROM 216 based on data for displaying the effect image from the sub CPU 206, and superimposes them. The image is displayed on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Production image overlay processing]
The subroutine executed in step S2410 in FIG. 24 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S2500, the operation time timer is counted. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of starting counting the operation time timer. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S2510.

  In step S2510, operation button effect image setting processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of setting an operation button effect image corresponding to the time counted by the operation time timer as an image to be superimposed in the next step S2520. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S2520.

  In step S2520, a process for determining whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed in the operation time timer is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process for determining whether or not a predetermined time (for example, the time until the medicine in the syringe image 92c shown in FIG. If it is determined that the production has been completed, the process proceeds to step S2530. If it is not determined that the production has ended, the process proceeds to step S2540.

  In step S2530, processing is performed to determine whether or not the player has performed an operation of turning off the operation button. In this process, when the sub CPU 206 determines that the operation button is turned off based on the output generated by the operation of the operation button 80, in other words, when it is determined that the finger is released from the operation button 80 pressed in step S2500. In step S2540, if it is not determined that the operation button has been turned off, this subroutine is terminated.

  In step S2540, the operation time timer is stopped. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 performs processing for stopping the operation time timer. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S2550.

  In step S2550, mode notification image setting processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not to notify the current mode based on the timing result of the operation time timer, and when notifying the current mode, based on the mode information acquired in step S1510, Processing for setting image data to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 is performed. For example, if the timing result of the operation time timer is within a preset valid time range, and the current gaming state is a probable change state, the character design “probably changing” is displayed as shown in FIG. Then, the player is notified that the state is surely changed. Thus, the sub CPU 206 is an example of an effect control unit that performs control for notifying the current gaming state based on the operation time of the operation unit (for example, the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4)).

  In step S2560, an operation time timer initialization process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of clearing the count value of the operation time timer. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  By such processing, when viewed from the player, the effect image shown in FIG. 5 is displayed when the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4) is pressed. Furthermore, the amount of medicine in the syringe image 92c changes according to the time for which the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4) is kept pressed. Then, by releasing the finger from the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4), the movement of the piston in the syringe image 92c is stopped, and the change in the amount of medicine is stopped. If the tip position of the piston in the syringe image 92c at this time is within a predetermined range, a mode notification image is displayed as shown in FIG. 22, and if it is out of the predetermined range, the game has failed as shown in FIG. Is displayed.

  Thus, it becomes possible to give interest to the operation button 80 by giving game characteristics to performing mode notification. In particular, in recent years, there have also appeared models that do not notify the probability variation state despite the probability variation state. As a result, for example, even if the mode is changed from the short-time mode to the normal mode after the big hit, the player can maintain the expectation of the big hit.

  However, in such a model, there is a possibility that the player may miss the timing to stop the game. Therefore, as described above, by providing the game state with game characteristics, for example, the player does not consume the game ball by operating the operation button 80 without operating the firing handle 26. Thus, it is possible to determine the game state and provide a criterion for determining whether or not to continue the game.

  As described above, according to another embodiment, based on the operation time of the operation means (for example, the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4)), what mode the current gaming state is, for example, the probability variation mode, The player can know whether it is the time reduction mode or the normal mode. For this reason, it becomes possible to find out a new function by operating the operation means (for example, the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4)), and to improve the fun of the game by operating the push button by the player. It is possible to provide a gaming machine that realizes the above.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the screen displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 (see FIG. 5) is switched according to the operation time of the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4). Is not limited to that. For example, when the gaming machine is equipped with a camera, the direction of the camera may be switched according to the operation time of the operation button 80 (see FIG. 4).

  In the above-described embodiment, a pachinko gaming machine called a digital pachi or a seven machine is given as an example. Other pachinko gaming machines may be used. Further, the present invention can be applied not only to pachinko gaming machines but also to a spinning gaming machine generally called a pachislot machine.

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, they are merely illustrative examples and do not particularly limit the present invention. That is, the present invention mainly includes a game execution control means for controlling the execution of a game using a game medium, an effect means for performing various effects according to the execution of the game under the control of the game execution control means, and a game An operation means that can be operated by a player, a counting means that counts an operation time of the operation means, and an effect control means that performs control to change the effect of the effect means based on the operation of the operation means by the player. The effect control means is a gaming machine characterized by performing control to change the effect content of the effect means based on the operation of the operation means by the player according to the counting result of the counting means. Specific configurations of the execution control means, the effect means operation means, the counting means, the effect control means, and the like can be appropriately changed in design.

  It should be noted that the effects described in the embodiments of the present invention only list the most preferable effects resulting from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are limited to those described in the embodiments of the present invention. is not.

1 is a perspective view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the general view in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view which shows the electrical decoration unit comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view which shows the general view in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the main control circuit and sub control circuit which are comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state transition of the control process performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of another embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of another embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of another embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of another embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Pachinko machine 13 Obstacle nail 14 Game board 15 Game area 20 Top plate 24 Prize opening 25, 44 Start opening 26 Launch handle 30 Guide rail 32 Liquid crystal display device 32a Display area 39 Large prize opening 40 Shutter 51 Round number display 60 Main Control circuit 66 Main CPU
68 Main ROM
70 Main RAM
80 Operation buttons 92a, 92b Character image 92c Syringe image 94 Identification pattern 96, 97 Character image 128 Dispensing device 130 Launching device 200 Sub control circuit 206 Sub CPU
208 Program ROM
210 Work RAM
216 Image data ROM
250 Display control circuit

Claims (4)

Game execution control means for controlling execution of a game using the game medium;
Effecting means for performing various effects in accordance with the execution of the game under the control of the game execution control means,
Operation means that can be operated by the player;
Counting means for counting the operating time of the operating means;
Effect control means for performing control to change the effect of the effect means based on the operation of the operation means by the player,
The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the effect control means performs control to change the contents of the effect of the effect means based on the operation of the operation means by the player in accordance with the counting result of the counting means. Lottery means for lottery whether to shift to a gaming state advantageous to the player;
Display means for performing a change display and stop display of identification information for notifying whether or not the lottery result by the lottery means is a win,
The production control means includes
Based on the lottery result by the lottery means, a control is performed to set a stop display mode of the identification information and display on the display means,
While performing the control to display the contents of the effect set based on the lottery result of the lottery means, the operation time of the operation means is within a predetermined time range while the display means is performing the variable display of the identification information. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising production content switching control means for performing control to switch production content until the identification information is stopped and displayed.   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the effect control unit performs control for notifying a current gaming state based on an operation time of the operation unit.   The gaming machine according to claim 2, further comprising operation invalidation control means for performing control to invalidate an operation by the operation means when an operation time of the operation means is outside the range of the predetermined time.

Images