JP2007307166A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which realizes the smooth selection of functions in a multifunctional shooting means without installing a new input means. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine includes a game board where game balls roll, a shooter which has a plurality of functions containing the function of shooting the game balls as operated to turn a shooting handle 26 by players, the main control means for controlling the intensity of shooting the game balls according to the degree of the rotation of the shooting handle 26 and a sub control means which carries out a control to switch functions to be executed by the shooter when the prescribed requirement is met and a shooting stop button 27 for stopping the shooting of the game balls as operated by the players. The sub control means determines whether the prescribed requirement that the degree of the turning of the shooting handle 26 exceeds a prescribed angle is met or not when the shooting stop button 27 is operated by a player and with the determination that the prescribed requirement is met, it carries out the control to switch the function to be executed by the shooter. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a pachinko gaming machine, for example.

  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.

Conventionally, there have been those that use push buttons to reflect the player's operation on the effect screen and those that switch the effect mode. Furthermore, recently, there is a model in which a selection operation such as moving a cursor on a menu screen and determining an item can be performed by providing a plurality of push buttons. However, providing a large number of push buttons leads to an increase in component costs, such as providing push button switches and wiring circuits. In order to solve such a problem, conventionally, a multi-function launch handle has been proposed. For example, there has been proposed a method in which a menu screen is displayed on a symbol display and a firing handle is operated to move an item selection cursor to select an arbitrary item (see Patent Document 1).
JP 2004-201941 A

  According to the above gaming machine, it is necessary to display the menu screen prior to the player operating the firing handle. However, since this menu screen is not displayed by any operation of the player, it is necessary to wait until the menu screen is displayed. Therefore, the menu screen cannot be displayed when the player desires, and there is a possibility that a smooth item selection cannot be performed.

  Here, when the player arbitrarily displays the menu screen, it is conceivable that a new operation button is provided for the player to operate, but in this case, the cost of parts increases due to the operation button being provided. Connected.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide a gaming machine that realizes smooth function selection in a multi-function launching unit without providing a new input unit. To do.

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

  (1) According to the game board on which the game ball rolls, the launching means having a plurality of functions including the function of launching the game ball by the turning operation of the launching handle by the player, and the turning amount of the launching handle A launch control means for controlling the strength of launching a game ball, a function switching control means for controlling a function to be executed by the launch means when a predetermined condition is satisfied, and an operation by the player, It is determined whether or not the predetermined condition that the amount of rotation of the discharge handle is equal to or greater than a predetermined angle is satisfied when the discharge stop operation means for stopping the discharge and the release stop operation means are operated by the player Control means for switching the function to be executed by the launching means when the judgment means judges that the predetermined condition is satisfied. Gaming machine and performing.

  According to the invention of (1), when the firing stop operation means (for example, the firing stop button) is operated, the amount of rotation of the launching handle is a predetermined angle or more (for example, so-called right-handed) ), The function selection to be set to the multi-function launching means is performed. Thus, since the function selection of the launching means is performed using the conventionally provided launch stop operating means and launching handle, there is no need to provide a new input means for function selection. In addition, since the operation of the launch handle is an essential operation for the game, it is not difficult for the player to operate the launch handle while operating the launch stop operating means. The function of the launching means can be selected by operation. In this way, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that realizes smooth function selection in the multi-function launching means without providing new input means.

  (2) In the gaming machine described in (1), a game execution control unit that controls the execution of a game, an effect unit that provides an effect according to the execution of the game under the control of the game execution control unit, and the effect unit Storage means for storing a plurality of types of effect contents to be executed, wherein the function switching control means executes the effect means as one of the plurality of functions in the launch means based on a turning operation of the firing handle. A game machine characterized by performing control to switch to an effect selection function for selecting effect contents to be performed.

  According to the invention of (2), in addition to the invention of (1), the effect selection function is selected by rotating the firing handle by a predetermined angle or more while operating the firing stop operation means, and further the effect selection function is executed. By doing so, it becomes possible to select the production content by operating the launch handle. For example, an effect selection function is selected by rotating the firing handle by a predetermined angle or more while operating the firing stop operation means, and an effect selection function is executed by canceling the operation of the firing stop operation means. The production content is selected by turning. Then, it is possible to change the contents of the effect by rotating the launch handle more than a predetermined angle again while operating the launch stop operation means to return to the function of launching the game ball. In this way, a gaming machine that realizes smooth function selection in the multi-function launching means by operating the firing stop operating means and the firing handle without providing new input means for selecting the production contents Can be provided.

  (3) In the gaming machine according to (2), when the display unit displaying a setting menu screen for selecting the content of the effect and the function switching control unit perform control to switch to the effect selection function, Display control means for performing control to display a setting menu screen on the display means, and the function switching control means is based on various effect items displayed on the setting menu screen based on a turning operation of the firing handle. A gaming machine that performs control to switch to a function for selecting one item.

  According to the invention of (3), in addition to the invention of (2), when the effect selection function is selected by rotating the firing handle by a predetermined angle or more while operating the firing stop operation means, the setting menu is displayed on the display means. Display the screen. Furthermore, one item can be selected from the various effect items on the setting menu screen by operating the firing handle. In this way, in the multi-function launching means, the player operates the firing stop operating means and the firing handle while looking at the display means without providing a new input means for selecting the production contents. A gaming machine that realizes smooth function selection can be provided.

  According to the present invention, by performing an operation (for example, so-called right-handed) that makes the rotation amount of the firing handle equal to or larger than a predetermined angle simultaneously with the operation of the firing stop operating means (for example, the firing stop button), the multifunctional firing means Therefore, it is not necessary to provide new input means for function selection, and the operation of the firing handle is an essential operation for the game. Since it becomes possible to select the function of the launching means, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that realizes smooth function selection in the multi-function launching means.

  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, an upper plate 20, a lower plate 22, a firing handle 26, and the like are disposed on the front surface of the main body frame 12.

  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. Thus, the game board 14 is an example of a game board on which a game ball rolls.

  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 illumination 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. Further, a firing stop button 27 (see FIG. 4) is provided in the vicinity of the firing handle 26. 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, power is supplied to the firing solenoid according to the rotational angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 is played. It is fired sequentially on the board 14 and the game proceeds. A structure including the firing handle 26, the firing stop button 27 (see FIG. 4), a firing solenoid (not shown), and a touch sensor (not shown) will be referred to as a firing device 130 (see FIG. 9). Thus, the launching device 130 is an example of a launching unit having a plurality of functions including a function of launching a game ball by a turning operation of the launching handle 26 by the player.

  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 device 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 the effects displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 becomes a specific display mode, the character that is pleased with the 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. In addition, a firing stop button 27 is provided on the casing that supports the launch handle 26. This launch stop button 27 rotates the launch handle 26 in the case of the launch handle 26 that is operated by the player's right hand. It is arranged in the vicinity of the right thumb in a state where it is not allowed. For example, when it is desired to stop the launch of the game ball but do not want to release the launch handle 26 and return to the initial rotation position, the launch of the game ball is stopped by operating the launch stop button 27. Thus, the launch stop button 27 is an example of a launch stop operation means for stopping the launch of the game ball by an operation by the player.

  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.

[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. In the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, an identification symbol 94 which is identification information for presentation is displayed. In addition, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, a character image 92 (for example, a character image of a person (so-called Don-chan) wearing a twisted bee and wearing a red happi) is displayed. During the game, by rotating the launch handle 26, the game ball is launched on the game board 14 shown in FIG. Based on the lottery result, three identification symbols 94 are displayed in a variable / stopped manner. Then, when the three identification symbols 94 are stopped and displayed in a predetermined combination (for example, all the same symbols), a big hit is made and the game shifts to a special game. In addition, various image displays including the character image 92 are performed on the liquid crystal display device 32 in order to enhance the fun of the game between the time when the three identification symbols 94 start changing display and become stop display. As described above, the liquid crystal display device 32 is an example of an effect unit that provides an effect in accordance with the execution of the game under the control of the main CPU 66 (see FIG. 9).

  By the way, although the details will be described later, the launch handle 26 has a function of selecting a production mode and a function of displaying various information related to the pachinko gaming machine 10 in addition to a function of launching a game ball.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a menu screen display in the effect mode. In the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, a character image 92a for prompting selection of the effect mode, character images 95a, 95b, and 95c for displaying the type of effect mode, and these character images 95a, 95b, and 95c are displayed. Correspondingly, there are displayed character images 96a, 96b, 96c indicating characters as the main characters in the effect mode, an explanatory symbol 97a indicating the operation method of the launch handle 26, and the like. As will be described in detail later, in the firing mode set in the normal gaming state, by operating the firing handle 26 while pressing the firing stop button 27 (in this embodiment, right-handed), FIG. A menu screen is displayed.

  When the menu screen shown in FIG. 6 is displayed, the function of the firing handle 26 is set to the effect mode selection function by releasing the firing stop button 27. Then, by operating the firing handle 26 as shown in the explanatory pattern 97a (right-handed in this embodiment), the cursor moves in the order of the character image 96a, the character image 96b, and the character image 96c. When the cursor moves to a desired character image, the function of the firing handle 26 is switched and the selected mode is set by pressing the firing stop button 27 while keeping the firing handle 26 in the right-handed state. The For example, as shown in FIG. 6, when the cursor moves to the character image 96a corresponding to the character image 95a of “Don-chan mode”, the function of the launch handle 26 is switched, and the function of the launch handle 26 is changed to the launch of the game ball. By returning to the function, as shown in FIG. 5, the production mode in which Don-chan is the main character is executed. As described above, the liquid crystal display device 32 is an example of a display unit that displays a setting menu screen for selecting the contents of effects.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a menu screen display in the information display mode. In the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, a character image 92b for prompting selection of information to be displayed, character images 95d, 95e, and 95f for indicating information that can be displayed in the display information mode, these character images 95d, Corresponding to 95e and 95f, character images 96d, 96e, and 96f showing the character that is the main character in the information display mode, an explanatory symbol 97b showing the operation method of the launch handle 26, and the like are displayed. As will be described in detail later, in the firing mode set in the normal gaming state, by operating the firing handle 26 while pressing the firing stop button 27 (in this embodiment, right-handed), FIG. Next to the menu screen shown, the menu screen shown in FIG. 7 is displayed.

  When the menu screen shown in FIG. 7 is displayed, the function of the firing handle 26 is set to the information display mode selection function by releasing the firing stop button 27. Then, by operating the firing handle 26 as shown in the explanatory pattern 97b (in this embodiment, right-handed), the cursor moves in the order of the character image 96d, the character image 96e, and the character image 96f. Then, when the cursor moves to the desired character image, the information display of the item corresponding to the cursor is performed by releasing the firing handle 26.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the information display screen. When the cursor moves to the character image 96d on the setting menu screen shown in FIG. 7, by releasing the operation of the firing handle 26, the jackpot information is displayed as shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, information such as the number of normal big hits, the number of probable big hits, the maximum number of consecutive hits, the number of revolutions after the previous big hit, and the big hit probability are displayed. Although not shown, when the character image 96e is selected on the menu screen, the information shown in FIG. 8 is displayed as a graph. Further, when the character image 96f is selected on the menu screen, events and service contents at the game hall are displayed.

  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 to be referred to at the time, and other tables are also stored.

  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.

  The firing device 130 includes the firing solenoid, the firing handle 26, and the firing stop button 27 described above, and further includes a touch sensor (not shown) that detects that the firing handle 26 has been gripped, and a rotation of the firing handle 26. An angle detection sensor for detecting the amount of movement and a switch member (not shown) for detecting the operation of the firing stop button 27 are provided. 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 according to the rotational angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 is fired. The game board 14 is sequentially fired by the solenoid. Thus, the payout / launch control circuit 126 is an example of a launch control unit that controls the strength of launching the game ball in accordance with the amount of rotation of the launch handle 26 (see FIG. 4).

  Detection signals from the touch sensor, the angle detection sensor, and the switch member are transmitted to the payout / firing control circuit 126 and the sub CPU 206. The payout / firing control circuit 126 is a firing signal corresponding to the turning amount of the launching handle 26 with respect to the launching device 130 when the touch sensor detects the player and the angle detection sensor is turned more than a predetermined angle. Supply. The payout / firing control circuit 126 stops the supply of the firing signal when the firing stop button 27 is operated. As a result, the game ball is not fired. When the firing stop button 27 is operated and the rotation amount of the firing handle 26 exceeds a predetermined angle, the sub CPU 206 performs a process for selecting the function of the launching device 130 described with reference to FIGS. .

  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. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the effect patterns are divided into the Don-chan mode, the master mode, and the Hazuki-chan mode, and independent effect display proceeds in each mode. 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. The program ROM 208 stores a program for displaying a setting menu screen as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 and selecting an item.

  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, various types of image data such as effect identification information image data indicating effect identification information, image data for displaying a setting menu screen as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, effect image data, and the like. Are stored separately. Of course, related image data indicating a related image is also stored. As described above, the image data ROM 216 is an example of a storage unit that stores a plurality of types of effect contents to be executed by the liquid crystal display device 32.

  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.

  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. Thus, the main CPU 66 is an example of a game execution control unit that controls the execution of a game.

[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, processing for executing command analysis processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of analyzing various commands sent to the main control circuit 60 in step S47 and operation states of the firing handle 26 and the firing stop button 27 in the launching device 130. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1520.

  In step S1520, a function switching control process is executed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 performs processing for switching the function of the launching device 130 based on the analysis result of the operation state of the launching device 130 in step S1510. Details of this processing will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1530.

  In step S1530, a process of executing 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 S1540.

  In step S1540, processing for executing 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. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1550.

  In step S1550, processing for executing 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, a lamp control process is executed. 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.

[Function switching control processing]
The function switching control process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S1600, processing for determining whether or not the firing stop button has been operated is performed. In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that there is an operation of the firing stop button 27 based on the value related to the state flag included in the command sent from the launching device 130, the process proceeds to step S1610, If it is not determined that there is an operation of the firing stop button 27, the process proceeds to step S1680.

  In step S1610, a process for determining whether or not the number of holds is 0 is performed. In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that the hold number is 0 based on the value related to the status flag included in the effect command sent from the main CPU 66, the process proceeds to step S1620, and the hold number is set. If it is not determined that is 0, the process proceeds to step S1680. For this reason, when there is a holding ball, the function of the launching device 130 cannot be set until the variable display game is exhausted and the holding ball disappears.

  In step S1620, processing for determining whether or not the amount of rotation of the firing handle is greater than or equal to a predetermined angle is performed. In this process, when the sub CPU 206 determines that the rotation amount of the firing handle 26 is equal to or larger than the predetermined angle based on the rotation amount data of the firing handle included in the command sent from the launching device 130, step S1625 is performed. If it is determined that the rotation amount of the firing handle is not less than the predetermined angle, the process proceeds to step S1680. As described above, the sub CPU 206 determines that the predetermined condition that the rotation amount of the firing handle 26 (see FIG. 4) is equal to or larger than a predetermined angle when the firing stop button 27 (see FIG. 4) is operated by the player. It is an example of the determination means which determines whether or not is satisfied.

  In step S1625, a firing stop process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of stopping the game ball launch function of the launcher 130 regardless of the operation of the launch handle 26 or the launch stop button 27. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1630.

  In step S1630, function switching processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of selectively switching functions to be executed by the multi-function (three functions in the present embodiment) launching device 130. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1640. Thus, the sub CPU 206 is a function switching control unit that performs control to switch the function to be executed by the launching device 130 (see FIG. 9) when the sub CPU 206 as the determination unit determines that the predetermined condition is satisfied. It is an example.

  In step S1640, setting menu display processing is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 stores data for displaying the setting menu screen corresponding to the function switched in step S <b> 1630 from the program ROM 208 to 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 from the image data ROM 216 based on data for displaying the setting menu screen from the sub CPU 206, and superimposes them on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. To display. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1650.

  In step S1650, processing for determining whether or not the operation of the firing stop button has been released is performed. In this process, when the sub CPU 206 determines that the operation of the firing stop button 27 has been released based on the value related to the state flag included in the effect command, the process proceeds to step S1660, and the operation of the firing stop button is performed. If it is not determined that the release has been made, the process proceeds to step S1630.

  In step S1660, function determination processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a function determination process. Specifically, when the state in which the firing handle 26 is rotated by a predetermined angle or more and the state in which the firing stop button 27 is operated are continued, the processing of the sub CPU 206 performs steps S1640 and S1650. The functions to be executed by the launching device 130 are sequentially switched, and the display of the liquid crystal display device 32 is switched. For example, in the launch mode, the game display screen shown in FIG. 5 is displayed. In the effect setting mode, the setup menu screen shown in FIG. 6 is displayed. In the information display mode, the setup menu screen shown in FIG. , Switching every predetermined time (for example, about 2 seconds). Furthermore, at the time of switching to a desired screen display, at least the operation of the firing stop button 27 is canceled, so that the function of the launching device 130 is determined. For example, by releasing the operation of the firing stop button 27 while the setting menu screen shown in FIG. 6 is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32, the function of the launching device 130 is changed by the operation of the firing handle 26. It is set to a function that moves the cursor for each setting item on the screen. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1670. Details of the function determination process will be described later.

  In step S1670, detailed setting processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a detailed setting process for performing more detailed settings in the mode determined in step S1660. The detailed setting process will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1680.

  In step S1680, a process for determining whether or not it is a game ball firing mode is performed. Although the details will be described later in this processing, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not the function flag corresponding to the function of the launching device 130 set in step S1660 is “0”, that is, whether or not the function of the launching device 130 is in the firing mode. The process which determines is performed. If it is determined that the function flag is “0” (firing mode), the process proceeds to step S1690. If it is not determined that the function flag is “0” (firing mode), this subroutine is terminated. .

  In step S1690, a firing stop state release process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of canceling the firing stop state set in step S1625. That is, the game ball is launched according to the amount of rotation of the launch handle 26, and when the launch stop button 27 is operated or when the launch handle 26 is not operated, the game ball is not launched. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  Therefore, in the function switching control process of step S1520 shown in FIG. 15, the firing handle 26 is rotated by a predetermined angle or more, and the process proceeds to step S1540 of FIG. 15 except when the firing stop button 27 is operated. No function switching is performed. In addition, while the function is switched and when a mode other than the launch mode is set, the game ball is not fired.

[Function decision processing]
The subroutine executed in step S1660 in FIG. 16 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S1700, a process for determining whether or not the shooting mode is in effect is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of determining whether or not the mode switched at the time of operation in step S1650 in FIG. If it is determined that the mode is the firing mode, the process proceeds to step S1710. If it is not determined that the mode is the firing mode, the process proceeds to step S1730.

  In step S1710, processing for setting “0” in the function flag is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of setting “0” in the function flag corresponding to the function of the launching device 130 and storing the function flag in the work RAM 210. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1720.

  In step S1720, a firing mode setting process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of setting the function of the launching device 130 to the launching mode of the game ball. Further, in this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of switching effect contents based on the effect items stored in the work RAM 210 by the process of step S1830 described later. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S1730, it is determined whether or not the mode is the effect switching mode. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of determining whether or not the mode switched at the time of operation in step S1650 in FIG. 16 is the effect switching mode. If it is determined that the mode is the effect switching mode, the process proceeds to step S1740. If it is not determined that the mode is the effect switching mode, the process proceeds to step S1760.

  In step S1740, processing for setting “1” in the function flag is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of setting “1” in the function flag corresponding to the function of the launching device 130 and storing the function flag in the work RAM 210. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1750.

  In step S1750, effect switching mode setting processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of setting the function of the launching device 130 in the effect switching mode for switching the effect contents. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S1760, processing for setting “2” in the function flag is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of setting “2” in the function flag corresponding to the function of the launching device 130 and storing the function flag in the work RAM 210. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1770.

  In step S1770, information display mode setting processing is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 performs processing for setting the function of the launching device 130 to an information display mode in which various types of information are displayed. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Detail setting process]
The subroutine executed in step S1670 in FIG. 16 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S1800, processing for determining whether or not the function flag is “0” is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of determining whether or not the function currently set in the launching device 130 is the launch mode based on the function flag. If it is determined that the function flag is “0”, this subroutine is terminated. If it is not determined that the function flag is “0”, the process proceeds to step S1810.

  In step S1810, processing for determining whether or not the function flag is “1” is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of determining whether or not the function currently set in the launching device 130 is the effect switching mode based on the function flag. If it is determined that the function flag is “1”, the process proceeds to step S1820. If it is not determined that the function flag is 1, the process proceeds to step S1840.

  In step S1820, an effect item selection process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 displays the setting menu screen shown in FIG. 6 on the liquid crystal display device 32, and moves the cursor to one of a plurality of effect items displayed on the setting menu screen by operating the firing handle 26. Processing for selecting a production item is performed. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished. As described above, the sub CPU 206, as one of a plurality of functions in the launch device 130 (see FIG. 9), in the liquid crystal display device 32 (see FIG. 5) based on the turning operation of the launch handle 26 (see FIG. 4). It is an example of the function switching control means which performs control which switches to the production | presentation selection function which selects the content of production to perform. Further, the sub CPU 206 is a function switching control means for performing control for switching to a function of selecting one item from various effect items displayed on the setting menu screen based on a turning operation of the firing handle 26 (see FIG. 4). It is an example.

  In step S1830, effect item setting processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of setting an effect item by operating the firing stop button 27 and storing it in the work RAM 210 after moving the cursor to a predetermined effect item in step S1820. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S1840, display item selection processing is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 displays the setting menu screen shown in FIG. 7, and by operating the firing handle 26, the sub CPU 206 moves the cursor to one of the plurality of information display items displayed on the setting menu screen, thereby changing the information display item. Perform processing to select. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S1850, information display processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 selects a display item by operating the firing stop button 27 after moving the cursor to a predetermined effect item in step S1820, and sends information data corresponding to the corresponding display item to the liquid crystal display device 32. Process to display. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished. It should be noted that an icon “return” is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 together with the information data, a cursor is displayed on the icon by operating the firing handle 26, and the firing stop button 27 is operated to return to the setting menu screen. Further, the sub CPU 206 may perform processing.

  According to the present embodiment, when the firing stop button 27 (see FIG. 4) is operated, the rotation amount of the firing handle 26 (see FIG. 4) is greater than a predetermined angle (for example, so-called right-handed When performing, a function selection to be set in the multi-function launcher 130 (see FIG. 9) is performed. In this way, the function selection of the launching device 130 (see FIG. 9) is performed using the conventionally provided launch stop button 27 (see FIG. 4) and the launch handle 26 (see FIG. 4). There is no need to provide new input means for selection. In addition, since the operation of the firing handle 26 (see FIG. 4) is an essential operation for the game, operating the firing handle 26 (see FIG. 4) while operating the firing stop button 27 (see FIG. 4) Therefore, it is possible to select the function of the launching device 130 (see FIG. 9) by operating the firing stop button 27 (see FIG. 4). In this way, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that realizes smooth function selection in the multi-function launcher 130 (see FIG. 9) without providing new input means.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the effect selection function is selected by rotating the firing handle 26 (see FIG. 4) by a predetermined angle or more while operating the firing stop button 27 (see FIG. 4), and the effect selection function is further provided. By executing, it becomes possible to select the content of the effect by operating the firing handle 26 (see FIG. 4). For example, an effect selection function is selected by rotating the firing handle 26 (see FIG. 4) or more while operating the firing stop button 27 (see FIG. 4), and the firing stop button 27 (see FIG. 4) is operated. By canceling, the effect selection function is executed, and the effect content is selected by turning the firing handle 26 (see FIG. 4). Then, by again operating the launch stop button 27 (see FIG. 4), the launch handle 26 (see FIG. 4) is rotated by a predetermined angle or more to return to the function of launching the game ball, thereby changing the contents of the effect. It becomes possible. As described above, the function of the multifunctional launching means is not provided by the operation of the firing stop button 27 (see FIG. 4) and the firing handle 26 (see FIG. 4) without providing new input means for selecting the production contents. A gaming machine that realizes smooth selection can be provided.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, when the effect selection function is selected by rotating the firing handle 26 (see FIG. 4) or more while operating the firing stop button 27 (see FIG. 4), the liquid crystal display device 32 is selected. A setting menu screen (see FIG. 6) is displayed on (see FIG. 6). Furthermore, one item can be selected from the various effect items on the setting menu screen (see FIG. 6) by operating the firing handle 26 (see FIG. 4). In this way, without providing new input means for selecting the contents of the effect, the player can stop the firing button 27 (see FIG. 4) and the firing handle while looking at the liquid crystal display device 32 (see FIG. 6). By operating No. 26 (see FIG. 4), it is possible to provide a gaming machine that realizes smooth function selection in the multi-function launching means.

  In the above-described embodiment, a pachinko gaming machine called a digital pachi or a seven machine is given as an example. However, the invention is not limited to this, but a pachinko gaming machine called a wing mono, Hikoki mono, a pachinko called a right mono. It may be a gaming machine or another mode.

  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 board on which a game ball rolls, launching means having a plurality of functions including a function of launching a game ball by a turning operation of the launch handle by a player, and the launch handle. A launch control means for controlling the strength of launching a game ball in accordance with the amount of rotation, a function switching control means for performing control to switch a function to be executed by the launch means when a predetermined condition is satisfied, and a player Satisfying the predetermined condition that the amount of rotation of the launching handle is greater than or equal to a predetermined angle when the launch stop operating means is operated by the player and the launch stop operating means is operated by the player. Determining means for determining whether or not the function switching control means causes the firing means to execute when the determination means determines that the predetermined condition is satisfied. The specific configuration of the game board, launching means, launch control means, function switching control means, launch stop operation means, judgment means, etc. can be appropriately changed in design. is there.

  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 setting menu screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the setting menu 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.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Pachinko machine 13 Obstacle nail 14 Game board 24 Prize opening 25 Start opening 26 Launch handle 27 Launch stop button 30 Guide rail 32 Liquid crystal display device 32a Display area 33 Special symbol display 35 Normal symbol display 39 Large prize opening 40 Shutter 44 Start port 51 Round number display 53 Illumination unit 60 Main control circuit 66 Main CPU
68 Main ROM
70 Main RAM
72 IC for serial communication
92, 96a, 96b, 96c, 96d, 96e, 96f Character image 92a, 92b, 95a, 95b, 95c, 95d, 95e, 95f Character image 94 Identification symbol 97a, 97b Description symbol 126 Launch control circuit 128 Discharge device 130 Launch device 200 Sub control circuit 206 Sub CPU
208 Program ROM
210 Work RAM
216 Image data ROM
250 Display control circuit

Claims (3)

A game board on which game balls roll,
A launching means having a plurality of functions including a function of launching a game ball by a turning operation of a launching handle by a player;
Launch control means for controlling the strength of launching a game ball according to the amount of rotation of the launch handle;
Function switching control means for performing control to switch the function to be executed by the firing means when a predetermined condition is satisfied;
Launch stop operation means for stopping the launch of the game ball by an operation by the player,
Determination means for determining whether or not the predetermined condition that the amount of rotation of the discharge handle is equal to or greater than a predetermined angle when the shooting stop operation means is operated by the player,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the function switching control means performs control to switch a function to be executed by the firing means when the determination means determines that the predetermined condition is satisfied. Game execution control means for controlling the execution of the game;
Production means for producing an effect according to the execution of the game under the control of the game execution control means,
And storage means for storing a plurality of types of effect contents to be executed by the effect means,
The function switching control means performs control for switching to an effect selection function for selecting an effect content to be executed by the effect means based on a turning operation of the launch handle as one of the plurality of functions in the launch means. The gaming machine according to claim 1. Display means for displaying a setting menu screen for selecting the production contents;
Display control means for performing control to display the setting menu screen on the display means when the function switching control means performs control to switch to the effect selection function,
3. The function switching control unit performs control to switch to a function of selecting one item from various effect items displayed on the setting menu screen based on a turning operation of the firing handle. The gaming machine described in 1.

Images