JP2008011939A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable a continuation of players' interests in a special game state for a longer time by offering the players a material for reasoning whether the shift to the special game state is done or not for a longer period. <P>SOLUTION: When a jackpot end 1 designation command for the end of the variable probability jackpot is received, a microcomputer for performance control selects the timing of ending the specified performance from a variable probability timing table based on the random number for determining the timing of ending the specified performance. Then, when a jackpot end 2 designation command for indicating the end of the normal jackpot is already received, the microcomputer selects the timing of ending the specified performance from a non-variable probability timing table based on the random number for determining the timing of ending the specified performance. When the game is in the variable probability state, 11th round, 33th round and 77th round (same in numerical value at notation of 10 and 1) is selected as the timing of ending the specified performance at a higher rate as compared with the non-variable probability state. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention can perform variable display of a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified by each variable display device, and can control to a specific gaming state advantageous to a player when the display result of the identification information becomes a specific display result. The present invention relates to a game machine such as a pachinko machine.

  As a gaming machine, a game ball, which is a game medium, is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game ball wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Further, a variable display unit capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, and when the display result of the variable display of the identification information in the variable display unit becomes a specific display result, the gaming state (game) The state of the machine, more specifically, the state in which the gaming machine is controlled) is configured to give a predetermined game value to the player. The game value is the right that the state of the variable winning ball apparatus provided in the gaming area of the gaming machine becomes advantageous for a player who is easy to win, and the right for becoming advantageous for a player. In other words, or a condition for winning a prize ball is easily established.

  In a pachinko machine, a specific display mode determined in advance is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display of a special symbol (identification information) that is started in the variable display unit based on the winning of a game ball at the start winning opening. If this happens, a “big hit” will occur. Note that the derivation display is to stop and display a symbol (excluding stop before so-called re-variation). When the big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state where the hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. And the number of times of opening the special winning opening is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29.5 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses.

  Generally, whether or not to make a “big hit” is determined by lottery using random numbers or the like. Further, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the probability change state in which the probability that the game state is determined to be “big hit” is higher than the normal state (non-probability change state: low probability state). There is a gaming machine that shifts to a (high probability state). Since a “big hit” is likely to occur in the probability variation state, the player is strongly interested in whether the gaming state is a probability variation state or a non-probability variation state.

  Accordingly, a gaming machine has been proposed that makes it difficult for the player to understand that the gaming state shifts to the probability changing state and tries to stimulate the player's interest in the probability changing state (see, for example, Patent Document 1). . In addition, even though the game state has been decided to shift to the probabilistic state, an attempt was made to stir up the player's interest in the probable state by performing an effect as if the game state would be different from the probable state. A gaming machine has also been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

  Furthermore, even though the game state is determined to shift to the probability change state, it is possible to grasp the fact that the game state is the probability change state at a predetermined timing during a certain period without notifying the player of that for a certain period of time. There is a gaming machine that performs (see, for example, Patent Document 3).

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-234945 (paragraph 0057) JP 2004-208902 A (paragraph 0007) JP 2006-110079 (paragraph 0082)

  Although it has been determined that it is difficult for the player to understand that the gaming state shifts to the probable change state or the gaming state shifts to the probabilistic state as described in Patent Documents 1 and 2. A game machine that produces an effect as if it is in a game state different from the probabilistic state cannot provide the player with material (such as an effect) that can reasonably be in a probable state. One may lose interest in the probabilistic state. In addition, as described in Patent Document 3, a game that does not notify the player that the state has changed to the probability change state for a certain period of time and performs an effect capable of grasping the probability change state at a predetermined timing during the certain period. In the machine, the player can confirm that the player is in the state of probability change when an effect that can grasp the state of probability change is performed. In other words, the timing for notifying that the state of probability change is merely shifted.

  Therefore, the present invention infers whether or not a gaming machine having a function of shifting to a special gaming state such as a probability-changing state has shifted to the special gaming state without actively notifying that it has transitioned to the special gaming state. It is an object of the present invention to provide a player with materials for a long period of time and to allow the player to continue his interest in the special gaming state for a long period of time.

  The gaming machine according to the present invention variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols and decorative symbols) that can be identified, and displays a display result (for example, a stop symbol). It is provided with a symbol display 8 and a variable display device 9), and when a specific display result (for example, a big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the variable display device, it shifts to a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state) advantageous to the player In addition, when a predetermined transition condition is satisfied (for example, when a probable big hit is determined by lottery), the game state is changed as compared with the normal state after the specific game state ends. A gaming machine that makes a transition to a special gaming state (for example, a probability variation state) in which the display result is likely to be a specific display result, and the display result derived and displayed on the variable display device Pre-determining means (for example, a part that executes the process of step S62 in the game control microcomputer 560) that determines whether or not a predetermined transition condition is satisfied before the display result is derived and displayed. The variable display control means for controlling the variable display of the identification information in the variable display device based on the determination of the predetermining means (for example, the processing of steps S104, S121, S122, S123, S131 in the game control microcomputer 560). A portion to be executed, which is provided in the gaming machine at a predetermined time after the specific gaming state is finished in the microcomputer 100 for effect control, and the portion in which the processing from S821 to S826, S981 to S837, and S841 to S843 is completed. Specific production by the production device (including the variable display device 9) For example, a specific effect starting means for starting a specific effect as illustrated in FIG. 39 (for example, a part that executes the processes of steps S892, S849 to S852, S901 to S904 in the effect control microcomputer 100), and a specific Specific effect period determining means for determining the number of executions of variable display of the identification information, which is a period in which the effect is executed (for example, the part for executing the processing of steps S887 to S889, S894 in the effect control microcomputer 100); Based on the fact that the number of executions determined by the specific effect period determining means has been reached, the specific effect ending means for ending the specific effect (for example, the processing of steps S906, S912 to S914 in the effect control microcomputer 100). The variable display control means is special Execute variable display of identification information in a common variable display mode regardless of whether or not it is in a gaming state (for example, do not distinguish between probable and non-probable symbols for special symbols and decorative symbols (big hit symbols) There is no distinction between effects such as variation patterns in the probability variation state and effects such as variation patterns in the non-probability variation state. When control is possible in the time reduction state, the difference between the effect in the probability variation state and the effect in the non-probability variation state is invisible even though the difference between the effect in the time reduction state is visible. ), The specific effect period determining means, when the determination result of the pre-determining means when shifting to the specific gaming state is to establish a predetermined transition condition, The specific number of times (for example, 11 times, 33 times, and 77 times (the same value for the 10th place and the 1st place)) is determined as the number of executions at a higher rate than when it was not established (Figure 10). 38).

  A gaming machine that transitions a gaming state to a time shortening state (for example, a short time state) in which a variable display time that is a variable display period of identification information is shortened when a specific gaming state ends. A game control means (for example, a game control microcomputer 560) for controlling the progress of the game, a game state notification means (for example, a left notification lamp 63A and a right notification lamp 63B) for notifying the game state, and a gaming machine A power supply that monitors the state of a predetermined power supply to be used and outputs a voltage drop detection signal (for example, a power-off signal) to the game control means based on the detection condition relating to the stop of power supply to the gaming machine being satisfied Monitoring means (for example, a power supply monitoring circuit 920), the game control means stores data that fluctuates according to the progress of the game, and even if the power supply to the gaming machine stops In addition, the storage means (for example, the RAM 55) that retains the stored contents for a predetermined period of time and the data necessary for restoring the game progress state in response to the output of the voltage drop detection signal by the power supply monitoring means are stored in the storage means. Power supply stop processing means for executing power supply stop processing for saving (for example, power-off processing) (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S454 to S481 in the game control microcomputer 560), When power supply to the machine is started, it is determined whether or not data indicating that the gaming state is a special gaming state is stored in the storage means. Special game state data setting means for setting (for example, probability change notification flag) (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, step S4 And a control for notifying whether or not the gaming state is a time shortening state by the gaming state notifying means, and when the predetermined data is set, the gaming state is the special gaming state. A gaming state notification control means (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S171 to S180 in the gaming control microcomputer 560) for performing control to notify that there is a predetermined value after the power supply to the gaming machine is started At the timing of (for example, when a big hit occurs for the first time), the predetermined data is initialized (for example, the probability variation notification flag is reset). For example, in the game control microcomputer 560, A portion for executing the process of step S134).

  A gaming machine that can be shifted to a plurality of types of specific gaming states (for example, 3R, 8R, 15 round big hit gaming state), and that outputs an operation signal in accordance with the player's operation (for example, the operation button 62). And a specific game state type determining means for determining the type of the specific game state (for example, the part for executing the processing of step S62 in the game control microcomputer 560; see FIG. 8), and the type of the specific game state. Specific gaming state type notification means (for example, effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c, 61d) and the specific gaming state type determined by the specific gaming state type determination means based on operations on the operating means. Specific gaming state type notification control means (for example, in the microcomputer 100 for effect control) A portion for executing the processing of S922 to S925).

  A gaming machine that transitions a gaming state to a time shortening state (for example, a short time state) in which a variable display time that is a variable display period of identification information is shortened when a specific gaming state ends. The specific effect start means may be configured to start a specific effect when the time reduction state as the predetermined time is finished (see steps S854, S849A to S852A in FIG. 45).

  A gaming machine capable of executing an effect based on a plurality of effect modes (for example, display of the background symbol of the variable display device 9), and when the specific effect is finished and the game state is the special game state, the effect mode The first effect mode setting means (for example, the part that executes the processing of steps S942 and S948 in the effect control microcomputer 100) and the specific effect are ended. On the other hand, when the gaming state is not the special gaming state, second effect mode setting means (for example, effect) that sets the effect mode to a specific effect mode or a normal effect mode (for example, effect mode 2) different from the specific effect mode by lottery. In the control microcomputer 100, a unit that executes the processes of steps S942, S944 to S948. ) And it may be provided.

  In the first aspect of the invention, after the specific gaming state is ended, the specific effect starting means for starting the specific effect by the effect device provided in the gaming machine and the specific effect are executed at a predetermined time. Specific effect period determining means for determining the number of executions of variable display of identification information as a period, and specific effect end means for ending a specific effect based on reaching the number of executions determined by the specific effect period determining means The variable display control means executes variable display of the identification information in a common variable display mode regardless of whether or not it is in the special gaming state, and the specific effect period determining means is a prior to the transition to the specific gaming state. When the determination result of the determination means satisfies the predetermined transition condition, the specific result is higher at a higher rate than when the determination result of the prior determination means does not satisfy the predetermined transition condition. Is determined as the number of executions, so that the player can infer whether or not the game state is a special game state based on the number of executions of variable display of the identification information in a specific performance. The interest in the special gaming state can be continued for a long time.

  In the invention according to claim 2, when power supply to the gaming machine is started, it is determined whether or not data indicating that the gaming state is the special gaming state is saved in the storage means, and is saved. When the power supply is stopped, the predetermined data is set, and when the predetermined data is set, control is performed to notify that the gaming state is the special gaming state. It becomes possible to easily recognize that the gaming state is the special gaming state, and it becomes possible to take measures to eliminate the special gaming state at the gaming store where the gaming machine is installed. We can prevent suffering shortage disadvantage.

  In the invention according to claim 3, since it is configured to perform control for notifying the type of the specific game state by the specific game state type notification means based on the operation to the operation means, the variation of the production increases, and the game Can improve the interest of

  In the invention according to claim 4, since the specific effect starting means is configured to start the specific effect when the time reduction state as the predetermined time is ended, the effect after the time reduction state ends The effect can be enhanced. That is, it is possible to prevent the production after the time shortening state from being monotonous.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, when the specific effect is finished, when the game state is the special game state, the effect mode is set to the specific effect mode, and when the game state is not the special game state, the effect mode is selected by lottery. Since it is configured to set the specific effect mode or the normal effect mode different from the specific effect mode, the variation of the effect can be increased and the interest of the game can be improved. In addition, the effect mode enables the player to infer whether or not the gaming state is the special gaming state, and the player's interest in the special gaming state can be continued for a long period of time.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front. In the following embodiment, a pachinko gaming machine will be described as an example. However, the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine, and a predetermined number of gaming media are paid out as prizes according to the game. It can also be applied to other gaming machines such as slot machines.

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

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

  Near the center of the game area 7, there is provided a variable display device (image display device) 9 including a plurality of variable display portions each variably displaying a decorative pattern for performance. The variable display device 9 has, for example, three variable display portions (symbol display areas) of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The variable display device 9 performs variable display of a decorative symbol as a symbol for decoration (production) during the variable symbol display period of the special symbol by the special symbol indicator 8. The variable display device 9 that performs variable display of decorative symbols is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board.

  The display screen of the variable display device 9 is provided with a special symbol hold memory display unit 18 for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the start winning opening 14, that is, the number of hold memories (also referred to as start memory or start prize memory). Yes. The special symbol hold storage display unit 18 displays up to four hold storage numbers in the order of winning. The special symbol hold storage display unit 18 increases the number of display of the lighting state (displayed state) by 1 every time there is a start winning in the start winning opening 14. Then, the special symbol hold storage display unit 18 reduces the number of lighting-on displays by 1 each time variable display is started on the special symbol display 8. In this example, the upper limit number (up to 4) is provided for the starting memory number by winning to the start winning opening 14, but the upper limit number may be four or more. Further, instead of forming the special symbol hold storage display unit 18 on the display screen of the variable display device 9, a special symbol hold storage display using LEDs, for example, may be provided separately from the variable display device 9.

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

  Below the variable display device 9 is provided a variable winning ball device 15 that forms a start winning opening 14. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by the solenoid 16, and when the variable winning ball device 15 is opened, the game ball can be easily won at the start winning port 14. The game ball won in the start winning opening 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the start opening switch 14a.

  Below the variable winning ball apparatus 15, a special variable winning ball apparatus 20 that is opened by a solenoid 21 in a specific gaming state (big hit state) is provided. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 has an opening / closing plate, and the large winning opening (variable winning ball apparatus) is opened by controlling the opening / closing plate to be opened. The winning ball that has won the special variable winning ball device 20 is detected by the count switch 23.

  When a game ball wins the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting left and right lamps (designs can be visually recognized when lit). For example, if the right lamp is lit at the end of variable display, it is a win. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol start memory display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls entered into the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a prize at the gate 32, the normal symbol start memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Then, every time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one.

  The game board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning ports (ordinary winning ports) 29, 30, 33, and 39. The winning holes 29, 30, 33, and 39 for the game balls are awarded to the winning port switches 29a and 30a, respectively. , 33a, 39a. Each winning opening 29, 30, 33, 39 constitutes a winning area provided in the game board 6 as an area for accepting game media and allowing winning. The start winning opening 14 and the big winning opening also constitute a winning area that accepts game media and allows winning. Decorative lamps 25 blinking and displayed during the game are provided around the left and right sides of the game area 7, and an outlet 26 for absorbing a game ball that has not won a prize is provided at the bottom. Two speakers 27 that emit sound effects are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c are provided. Further, a decoration LED is installed around each structure (such as a big prize opening) in the game area 7. The top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the decoration LED are examples of a decorative light emitter provided in the gaming machine.

  The game balls launched from the hit ball launching device enter the game area 7 through the hit ball rail, and then descend the game area 7. When the game ball enters the start winning port 14 and is detected by the start port switch 14a, the special symbol on the special symbol display unit 8 starts variable display (variation) and is variable if the variable symbol display can be started. The decorative design on the display device 9 starts variable display (variation). If it is not in a state where the variable display of symbols can be started, the start winning memory number is increased by one.

  The variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 and the variable display of the decorative symbol on the variable display device 9 are stopped when a certain time has passed. If the special symbol (stop symbol) at the time of stoppage is a jackpot symbol (specific display result), the game shifts to a jackpot gaming state. That is, the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is released until a predetermined time elapses or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of gaming balls wins.

  When the game ball wins the gate 32, the normal symbol display unit 10 is in a state where the normal symbol is variably displayed. Further, when the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined time. Further, in the probability variation state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased.

  In the lower left part of the gaming machine, an operation button 62 is provided that can be pressed by the player and outputs a pressing signal when pressed. Further, four effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c, and 61d are provided on the left and right above the variable display device 9. The effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c, 61d are controlled by an effect control microcomputer, and display means for performing an effect (an effect that suggests that the player is in a certain variation state) that can be inferred that the player is in a certain variation state. It is. The effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c, 61d are also used as display means for notifying the number of rounds of the big hit game.

  A left notification lamp 63A and a right notification lamp 63B for notifying a game state (for example, a probability variation state or a non-probability variation state) are provided on the left and right below the variable display device 9. The left notification lamp 63A and the right notification lamp 63B are controlled by a game control microcomputer.

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

  In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control in accordance with a program stored in the ROM 54. Therefore, the game control microcomputer 560 (or the CPU 56) executes (or performs processing) hereinafter. Specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

  Further, an input driver circuit 58 for supplying detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. Yes. The main board also includes an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 that forms a big winning opening in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560. 31. Further, a lamp driving circuit 60 for driving the left notification lamp 63A and the right notification lamp 63B in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31.

  An information output circuit (not shown) that outputs an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer is also mounted on the main board 31.

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

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

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

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the variable display device 9 in cooperation with the effect control microcomputer 100 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the production control microcomputer 100 and maps the VRAM therein. VRAM is a buffer memory for developing image data. The VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the variable display device 9 via the frame memory.

  The effect control CPU 101 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for reading out necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM stores character image data and moving image data displayed on the variable display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols, etc. (including decorative designs), and background image data in advance. ROM. The VDP 109 reads image data from the CGROM in response to the instruction from the effect control CPU 101. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data.

  The effect control CPU 101 drives the effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c, and 61d via the output port 106 and a lamp driver (not shown). That is, it is turned on or off. In addition, a pressing signal from the operation button 62 is input via the input port 107.

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

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 3 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal. Furthermore, since the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 that is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 toward the inside of the main board 31 is restricted. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (the game control microcomputer 560 side). The output port 571 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit that is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

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

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

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

  Next, the configuration of the power supply substrate 910 will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG. The power supply board 910 is provided with a power switch 914 for permitting or shutting off power supply to each electric component control board or mechanism component in the gaming machine. Note that the power switch 914 may be provided outside the power supply board 910 in the gaming machine. When the power switch 914 is in a closed state (on state), AC power (AC 24 V) is applied to the input side (primary side) of the transformer 911. The transformer 911 is for electrically insulating the AC power supply (AC24V) and the inside of the power supply substrate 910, and its output voltage is also AC24V. A varistor 918 as an overvoltage protection circuit is installed on the input side of the transformer 911.

  The power supply board 910 is installed independently of the electric component control board (the main board 31, the payout control board 37, the effect control board 80, etc.), and generates a voltage used by each board and the mechanical parts in the gaming machine. In this example, AC24V, VSL (DC + 30V), VLP (DC + 24V), VDD (DC + 12V) and VCC (DC + 5V) are generated. Further, a capacitor 916 serving as a storage holding means for holding the stored contents in the backup power supply (VBB), that is, the backup RAM, is charged from DC + 5V (VCC), that is, a power supply line for driving an IC or the like on each substrate. Further, a backflow prevention diode 917 is inserted between the +5 V line and the backup +5 V (VBB) line. Note that VSL is generated by rectifying and boosting AC 24 V with a rectifying element in the rectifying and smoothing circuit 915. VSL becomes a solenoid driving power source. VLP is a lamp lighting voltage, and is generated by rectifying AC24V with a rectifier element in the rectifier circuit 912.

  The DC-DC converter 913 serving as a power supply voltage generation unit has one or a plurality of switching regulators (two regulator ICs 924A and 924B are shown in FIG. 4), and generates VDD and VCC based on VSL. Relatively large capacitors 923A and 923B are connected to the input sides of the regulator ICs (switching regulators) 924A and 924B. Accordingly, when the power supply to the gaming machine from the outside is stopped, the DC voltages such as VSL, VDD, VCC, etc., decrease relatively slowly.

  As shown in FIG. 4, AC24V output from the transformer 911 is supplied to the connector 922B as it is. The VLP is supplied to the connector 922C. VCC, VDD and VSL are supplied to connectors 922A, 922B and 922C.

  The cable connected to the connector 922A is connected to the main board 31. The cable connected to the connector 922B is connected to the payout control board 37. Therefore, VBB is also supplied to the connector 922A. For example, a cable connected to the connector 922 </ b> C is connected to the lamp driver board 35. Each voltage is supplied to the effect control board 80 via the lamp driver board 35.

  In addition, a clear switch 921 having a push button structure is mounted on the power supply board 910. When the clear switch 921 is pressed, a low level (ON state) clear signal is output and output to the main board 31 via the connector 922A. If the clear switch 921 is not pressed, a high level (off state) signal is output. The clear switch 921 may have a configuration other than the push button structure. Further, the clear switch 921 may be provided other than the power supply board 910 in the gaming machine.

  Further, the power supply board 910 generates a reset signal for the microcomputer mounted on the electric component control board, amplifies the reset signal from the power supply monitor circuit 920 that outputs a power-off signal, and the power supply monitor circuit 920. And an output driver circuit 925 that amplifies the power-off signal and outputs it to the connector 922A. The reset signal for the effect control microcomputer is transmitted to the effect control board 80 via the lamp driver board 35. Further, when the reset circuit is mounted on each electric component control board, the voltage value that makes the reset signal high may be made different (for example, the case of the main board 31 is made highest). The timing at which the reset signal for the game control microcomputer 560 becomes high level is the latest).

  When the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, the power supply monitoring circuit 920 outputs a reset signal (system reset signal: at the reset level) when a predetermined period has elapsed since the power-off signal is output (set to low level). The operation of the microcomputer is prohibited, and when the non-reset level is reached, the signal that enables the operation of the microcomputer is set to a low level (reset level). Therefore, the microcomputer (for example, the game control microcomputer 560) becomes inoperable. However, the configuration for disabling the microcomputer when the power supply is stopped is not limited to the configuration using the system reset signal from the power supply monitoring circuit 920. For example, it is detected that a predetermined power supply voltage has dropped. In response to this, a hardware timer circuit (counter circuit) may be activated, and when the timer circuit measures a predetermined time, a system reset signal may be output (set to a low level).

  A power-off signal from the power monitoring circuit 920, that is, a detection signal from the power monitoring means is input to the game control microcomputer 560 via an input port mounted on the main board 31. That is, the gaming control microcomputer 560 can confirm the occurrence of the stop of the power supply to the gaming machine by monitoring the input signal of the input port.

  In this embodiment, the power supply monitoring means monitors the output of a power supply of a predetermined potential (for example, VLP, but may be VSL), and the detection condition relating to the stop of the supply of power supplied to the gaming machine from the outside. As described below, a predetermined DC voltage created by rectifying and smoothing from a voltage from the outside of the gaming machine (AC24V in this embodiment) is equal to or lower than a predetermined value, but the detection condition is not limited thereto. Other conditions may be used as long as it can be detected that the external power supply is stopped. For example, the AC wave itself may be monitored to detect that the AC wave has been interrupted for a predetermined period of time, or a rectified waveform (a full-wave rectified waveform or a half-wave rectified waveform during the conversion of AC24V to DC) may be used. However, the detection condition may be that the AC wave has been interrupted for a predetermined period of time, or a signal obtained by digitizing the AC wave may be monitored to detect that the AC wave has been interrupted when the digital signal has become flat. It is good also as conditions.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When the gaming machine is turned on and the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) determines whether the contents of the program are valid. After executing the security check process, which is a process for confirming whether or not, the main process after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

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

  Next, the CPU 56 checks the state of the output signal of the clear switch (for example, mounted on the power supply board) input via the input port (step S6). When the on-state is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes a normal initialization process (steps S10 to S15).

  If the clear switch is not on, check whether data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) was performed when power supply to the gaming machine was stopped (Step S7). When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process.

  After confirming that there is a backup, the CPU 56 performs a data check of the backup RAM area (parity check in this example) (step S8). In step S8, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, an initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 restores the game state restoration process (steps S41 to S46) for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electrical component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. Process). Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S41), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55) (step S42). ). The work area is backed up by a backup power source. In the backup setting table, initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set. As a result of the processing in steps S41 and S42, the saved contents of the work area that should not be initialized remain as they are. The part that should not be initialized is, for example, data indicating the gaming state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, time reduction flag, etc.), and the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer) ), A portion in which data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets a power failure recovery designation command transmission request flag to transmit a power failure restoration designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply restoration (step S43). In this embodiment, the power failure recovery designation command is transmitted in the effect control command control process (step S28) after the game control process is started, but is directly transmitted in the process of step S43. Also good.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets an initial notification flag for requesting that the recovered gaming state notification be executed in the game control process (step S44). Further, it is determined whether or not the time reduction flag (the time reduction flag stored in the backup RAM area) is set. If the time reduction flag is set, a notification that the time reduction state has occurred is provided in the game control process. A short time notification flag for requesting execution is set (step S45). Further, it is determined whether or not the probability change flag (the probability change flag stored in the backup RAM area) is set. If the probability change flag is set, the game control process notifies that the probability change state is set. A probability change notification flag for requesting execution is set (step S46). Then, the process proceeds to step S15. Note that the notification of the gaming state that is executed when the gaming state restoration process is executed is referred to as initial notification.

  In this embodiment, it is confirmed whether the data in the backup RAM area is stored using both the backup flag and the check data. However, only one of them may be used. That is, either the backup flag or the check data may be used as an opportunity for executing the game state restoration process.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). The entire area of the RAM 55 may not be initialized, and predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a big hit determination random number) may be left as it is. Further, the start address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area (step S12).

  By the processing of steps S11 and S12, for example, a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol buffer, a total prize ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, an award ball flag, a ball out flag, and a payout stop An initial value is set to a flag such as a flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets an initialization command transmission request flag in order to transmit an initialization command for initializing the sub board to the sub board (step S13). Examples of the initialization command include a command indicating an initial symbol displayed on the variable display device 9. In this embodiment, the initialization command is transmitted in the effect control command control process (step S28) after the game control process is started, but may be directly transmitted in the process of step S13. Good.

  In step S15, the CPU 56 sets a register of the CTC built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every 2 ms.

  When the execution of the initialization process (steps S10 to S15) is completed, the CPU 56 repeatedly executes the display random number update process (step S17) and the initial value random number update process (step S18) in the main process. When executing the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S16). When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are finished, the interrupt enabled state is set. Set (step S19). In this embodiment, the display random number is a random number for determining the variation pattern, and the display random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. The initial value random number is a random number for determining an initial value of a count value, such as a counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to make a big hit (a big hit determination random number generation counter). A game control process for controlling the progress of the game, which will be described later (the game control microcomputer 560 controls game devices such as a variable display device, a variable winning ball device, a ball payout device, etc. provided in the game machine itself. In a process to transmit, a command signal to be controlled by another microcomputer, or a game device control process), the count value of the jackpot determination random number generation counter or the like is one round (a jackpot determination random number generation counter or the like) When the value is incremented by the number of values between the minimum value and the maximum value that can be taken, the initial value is set in the counter.

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process of steps S20 to S35 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether or not an on-state is turned on) is executed (step S20). The power-off signal is output when, for example, a voltage drop monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a drop in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals of the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a are input via the input driver circuit 58, and the state determination is performed (switch processing). : Step S21).

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

  Next, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a big hit determination random number used for game control is performed (determination random number update process: step S23). The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number update process, display random number update process: steps S24 and S25).

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Decide whether or not to generate a big hit in response to the variable display of a special symbol based on the winning of a game ball at the start winning opening (for big hit determination)
(2) Random 2: Determines the special symbol detachment symbol (stop symbol) (for detachment symbol determination)
(3) Random 3: Determines the special symbol stop symbol when generating a big hit (for big hit symbol determination)
(4) Random 4: Determine the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol (for variation pattern determination)
(5) Random 5: Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(6) Random 6: Determine the initial value of random 1 (for determining the random 1 initial value)
(7) Random 7: Determine the initial value of random 5 (for determining the random 5 initial value)

  In step S23 in the game control process shown in FIG. 6, the game control microcomputer 560 determines (1) big hit determination random number, (3) big hit symbol determination random number, and (5) normal symbol hit determination. The counter for generating a random number for use is incremented (added by 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers or initial value random numbers. In addition, in order to improve a game effect, you may make it use random numbers other than the random number of said (1)-(7). In this embodiment, the big hit determination random number is a software random number generated based on a program by the game control microcomputer 560. However, as the big hit determination random number, hardware external to the game control microcomputer 560 is used. Alternatively, a random number generated by hardware built in the game control microcomputer 560 may be used.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S26). In the special symbol process, the corresponding symbol is executed in accordance with a special symbol process flag for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special winning award in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Next, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S27). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes a corresponding process according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect control command control process: step S28).

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

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

  In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the CPU 56 relates to on / off of the solenoid in the RAM area corresponding to the output state of the output port. The contents are output to the output port (step S31: output process).

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

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in an output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S33). For example, when the start flag related to the variation of the normal symbol is set, the CPU 56 switches the display state (“◯” and “×”) for the variation rate of the normal symbol every 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set. With such a speed, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer (for example, 1 indicating “◯” and 0 indicating “x”) is switched every 0.2 seconds. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a normal signal on the normal symbol display 10 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer.

  In addition, a state notification process that is a process for notifying the gaming state is executed (step S34). Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S35), and the process is terminated.

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes of steps S21 to S34 (excluding step S29) in the timer interrupt process. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the jackpot determination value. The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the counter for generating the big hit determination random number at a predetermined time and uses the extracted value as the big hit determination random value. The big hit determination random number is shown in FIG. If it coincides with the judgment value, it is determined that the special symbol is a big hit (probability big hit or normal big hit). In FIG. 8B, numerical values are not shown and the number of numerical values is shown. In the normal state, the CPU 56 compares the jackpot determination random number value with the jackpot determination value described in FIG. In the probability variation state, the jackpot determination random number value is compared with the jackpot determination values set for the number of pieces described in FIG. The numerical values described in FIG. 8A are set in the ROM 54 as normal jackpot determination values, and the numerical values for the number of numbers described in FIG. 8B are set in the ROM 54 as probability variation big hit determination values. Yes. The probability variation jackpot is a jackpot that shifts the gaming state after the jackpot game to a probability variation state in which there is a high probability of being determined to be a jackpot compared to the normal state. Usually, the big hit is a big hit that shifts the gaming state after the big hit game to a state that is not a probable change state.

  In the probability variation state, the probability that the stop symbol of the normal symbol is determined as a winning symbol may be increased, the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 may be increased, or the number of times of opening may be increased.

  In this embodiment, there are three types of big hit games. Specifically, 3 rounds (3R) jackpots where the number of opening of the grand prize opening is allowed up to 3 times, 3 rounds (8R) jackpots where the number of opening of the big prize opening is allowed up to 8 times, and It is a 15 round (15R) jackpot that allows up to 15 open times. In this embodiment, the number of rounds of the big hit is also determined based on the random number for determining the big hit, but if the big hit is determined based on the random number for determining the big hit, May determine the number of rounds using other random numbers. Further, in the case of 3R big hit, it is always assumed that it is a probable big hit, and so-called sudden probable big hit, that is, the opening time of the big prize opening is very short.

  9 and 10 are flowcharts showing an example of the power-off process in step S20. In the power-off process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether it is in an on state) (step S450). If not on, the value of the backup monitoring timer formed in the RAM 55 is cleared to 0 (step S451). If it is on, the value of the backup monitoring timer formed in the RAM 55 is incremented by 1 (step S452). If the value of the backup monitoring timer coincides with a determination value (for example, 2) (step S453), data necessary for restoring the power supply stop process after step S454, that is, the progress state of the game is surely stored in the RAM 55. Execute the process to save to. In other words, the state shifts from a state in which the progress of the game is controlled to a state in which a power supply stop process (power-off process) for saving the game state is executed.

  By using the backup monitoring timer and the determination value, if the power-off signal is kept on for a time corresponding to the determination value, the power supply stop process is started. That is, even when the power-off signal is turned on for a moment due to noise or the like, the power supply stop process is not erroneously started. Note that the value of the backup monitoring timer formed in the RAM 55 is stored by the backup power source for a predetermined period even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. Therefore, in step S7 in the main process, it can be confirmed that the processing result of the power supply stop process is stored because the value of the backup monitoring timer is the same as the determination value.

  In the power supply stop process, the CPU 56 creates parity data (steps S454 to S463). That is, first, clear data (00) is set in the checksum data area (step S454), and the checksum calculation start address corresponding to the start address of the RAM area in which the contents are to be stored even when power supply is stopped is set in the pointer. (Step S455). Further, the number of checksum calculations corresponding to the final address of the RAM area where the contents are to be stored even when the power supply is stopped is set (step S456).

  Next, an exclusive OR of the contents of the checksum data area and the contents of the RAM area pointed to by the pointer is calculated (step S457). The calculation result is stored in the checksum data area (step S458), the value of the pointer is incremented by 1 (step S459), and the value of the checksum calculation count is decremented by 1 (step S460). Then, the processes in steps S457 to S460 are repeated until the value of the checksum calculation count becomes 0 (step S461).

  When the value of the checksum calculation count becomes 0, the CPU 56 inverts the value of each bit of the contents of the checksum data area (step S462). Then, the inverted data is stored in the checksum data area (step S463). This data becomes parity data to be checked when the power is turned on. Next, an access prohibition value is set in the RAM access register (step S471). Thereafter, the built-in RAM 55 cannot be accessed.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the head address of the port clear setting table stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer (step S472). In the port clear setting table, the number of processes (the number of output ports to be cleared) is set to the head address, and then the output port address and output value data (clear data: the value of the off state of each bit of the output port) However, the output ports for the number of processes are sequentially set.

  The CPU 56 loads data at the address pointed to by the pointer (that is, the number of processes) (step S473). Further, the value of the pointer is incremented by 1 (step S474), and the data of the address pointed to by the pointer (that is, the address of the output port) is loaded (step S475). Further, the value of the pointer is incremented by 1 (step S476), and the data of the address pointed to by the pointer (that is, output value data) is loaded (step S477). Then, the output value data is output to the output port (step S478). Thereafter, the number of processes is reduced by 1 (step S479), and if the number of processes is not 0, the process returns to step S474. If the number of processes is 0, that is, if all the output ports to be cleared are cleared, the timer interrupt is stopped (step S481) and the loop process is started.

  In the loop processing, it is monitored whether or not the power-off signal is turned off (step S482). When the power-off signal is turned off, the execution address at power-on (address in step S1) is set as a return address and a return command is executed (step S483). That is, the process returns to the main process. Specifically, a state in which a gaming device provided in the gaming machine is controlled (a concept including both controlling by itself and sending a command signal to cause another microcomputer to control). Return.

  When the power supply is stopped by the above process, the power supply stop process in steps S454 to S481 is executed, and data indicating that the power supply stop process has been executed (specified value with backup and checksum) Is stored in the backup RAM, the RAM access is disabled, the output port is cleared, and the timer interrupt for executing the game control process is disabled. In this embodiment, a process for setting a backup monitoring timer value corresponding to a backup flag (specified value with backup) indicating that a process at the time of power supply stop has been executed, a process for creating a checksum, and an output port The processes are executed in the order of the processes for clearing, but the order is not limited. Further, the process of clearing the output port may be omitted.

  In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 monitors the power-off signal input to the input port and executes the process when the power supply is stopped based on the power-off signal being turned on. However, the power-off signal is input to the NMI (non-maskable interrupt) terminal of the game control microcomputer 560, and the game control microcomputer 560 is started based on the power-off signal being turned on. The power supply stop process may be executed by the non-maskable interrupt process. Further, the power-off flag may be set in the non-maskable interrupt process, the power-off flag may be monitored in the timer interrupt process or the main process, and the power supply stop process may be executed when the power-off flag is set. .

  Further, in this embodiment, the entire area of the RAM 55 is backed up by a backup power source (the contents of the RAM 55 are saved for a predetermined period even when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped). Therefore, the checksum based on the contents of the RAM 55 when the power-off signal is output is stored in the RAM 55 together with the value of the backup monitoring timer by the processing in steps S452 to S479. After the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, when the power supply is restored within a predetermined period, the game control means performs the data stored in the RAM 55 (immediately before the power supply is stopped) by the processing of steps S41 and S42 described above. Immediately before the power supply is stopped according to the data indicating the game state which is the control state of the game control means (including the special symbol process flag state, the probability variation flag state, the time flag state, etc.) It can be returned to the state. If the power supply stop period exceeds the predetermined period, the value of the backup monitoring timer and the checksum should be different from the regular values. In this case, the initialization process of steps S10 to S13 is executed. The

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a game state transition method.
In this embodiment, when a big hit occurs and the big hit game ends, the game state is reduced to a short time state until the execution of 100 special symbol changes (variable display) is completed ((a), ( b) and (d)). In addition, when variable display of a special symbol is started when variable display ends, if it is decided to change to a probable change state when the special symbol variable display is started, the game state is changed to a probable change state when the big hit game ends. It is transferred (see (a) and (b)). If the gaming state at that time is a probability variation state, the probability variation state is continued.

  After the transition to the probability changing state, the state of the probability changing state and the time-shortening state are thereafter reached until the execution of 100 special symbol changes (variable display) is completed (see (a) and (b)). In addition, in the non-probability change state after the big hit game is over, the game state is changed to the normal state (the game state that is not the probability change state and not the short-time state) when the execution of 100 special symbol changes (variable display) is completed. Transition (see (a), (d), (e)).

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a variation pattern used in this embodiment. In FIG. 12, “EXT” indicates the second byte of EXT data in the effect control command having a two-byte structure. “Variation time” indicates the variation time of the special symbol (variable display period of identification information).

  “Normal fluctuation” is a fluctuation pattern without a reach mode. “Normal reach” is a variation pattern that is accompanied by a reach mode but whose display result (stop symbol) does not become a big hit symbol. “Reach A” is a variation pattern having a reach form different from “normal reach”. Different reach modes mean that different modes of change (speed, direction of rotation, etc.), characters, etc. appear in the reach change time (the period during which the reach effect is performed). For example, in “normal reach”, a reach mode is realized by only one type of change mode, whereas in “reach A”, a reach mode including a plurality of change modes having different speeds and directions of change is realized.

  “Reach B” is a fluctuation pattern having a reach mode different from “Normal reach” and “Reach A”. “Reach C” is a variation pattern having a reach form different from “normal reach”, “reach A”, and “reach B”. “Super reach” is a variation pattern having a reach manner different from “normal reach”, “reach A”, “reach B”, and “reach C”, and is a variation pattern having a reach manner by moving images. Note that “reach A”, “reach B”, and “reach C” may or may not be a big hit. In addition, “Super Reach” may be a big hit or not a big hit, but if variable display by “Super Reach” is executed, the stop symbol becomes a big hit symbol at a very high rate. In “Super Reach”, it may always be a big hit.

  “Normal variation / shortening” is a variation pattern that does not involve a reach mode, but the variation time (variable display time) is shorter than “normal variation”. “Reach A / shortening” is a variation pattern having a reach manner similar to “reach A”, but the reach variation time is shorter than “reach A”. “Reach B / shortening” is a variation pattern having a reach manner similar to “reach B”, but the reach variation time is shorter than “reach B”.

  13A to 13D are explanatory diagrams illustrating an example of a variation pattern table. The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the counter for generating the variation pattern determination random number at a predetermined time and uses the extracted value as the variation pattern determination random number. The variation pattern determination random number is shown in FIG. When the number of determination values matches the number of determination values, the variation pattern corresponding to the determination value is determined as the variation pattern to be used. Therefore, the variation pattern table is a table in which a determination value to be compared with the variation pattern determination random number is set in correspondence with the variation pattern. The variation pattern table is set in the ROM 54.

  FIG. 13A shows a variation pattern table (displacement variation pattern table) used when the gaming state is a non-time saving state and it is determined to be out of play. FIG. 13B is a variation pattern table (big hit variation pattern table) used when the gaming state is a non-time saving state and it is determined to be a big hit. FIG. 13C is a variation pattern table (shift variation pattern table at the time reduction) used when the gaming state is the time-short state and it is determined to be out of place. FIG. 13D shows a variation pattern table (short-time big hit variation pattern table) used when the gaming state is a short-time state and it is determined to be a big hit.

  In the short time state, the variation time of the special symbol is shortened compared to the normal state. Further, the normal symbol variation time may be shortened in the time-short state.

  In this embodiment, in the short-time state, the same variation pattern table is used in both the probability variation state and the non-probability variation state, that is, the variation pattern selected is the same, but the variation pattern used in the probability variation state. The group (a plurality of variation patterns that can be used) and the variation pattern group used in the uncertain variation state may be separated.

  Next, a method for sending a control command from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100 will be described. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing a signal line of an effect control command transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80. As shown in FIG. 14, in this embodiment, the effect control command is transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 via the relay board 77 using eight signal lines of the effect control signals D0 to D7. Further, between the main board 31 and the effect control board 80, a signal line of the effect control INT signal for transmitting the capture signal (effect control INT signal) is also wired.

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

  As shown in FIG. 15, the 8-bit effect control command data of the effect control command is output in synchronization with the effect control INT signal. The effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 detects that the effect control INT signal has risen, and starts a 1-byte data capturing process through an interrupt process. Therefore, when viewed from the effect control microcomputer 100, the effect control INT signal corresponds to a signal that triggers the capture of effect control command data.

  The effect control command is sent only once so that the effect control microcomputer 100 can recognize it. In this example, “recognizable” means that the level of the effect control INT signal changes, and that it is sent only once so as to be recognizable means that, for example, each of the first and second bytes of the effect control command data Accordingly, the production control INT signal is output in a pulse shape (rectangular wave shape) only once. The effect control INT signal may have a polarity opposite to that shown in FIG.

  FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIG. 16, commands 8001 (H) to 8009 (H) are effect control commands (variation) for designating a variation pattern of decorative symbols variably displayed on the variable display device 9 in response to variable display of special symbols. Pattern command). The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the start of variation. Therefore, when the production control microcomputer 100 receives any of the commands 8001 (H) to 8009 (H), the variable display device 9 controls the variable display device 9 to start variable display of the decorative symbols. In this embodiment, since the variable display of the special symbol and the variable display of the decorative symbol are synchronized (the variable display start time and the variable display end time are the same), the decorative pattern variation pattern (variation time) Determining also means determining the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol.

  The commands 8C01 (H) to 8C04 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit and the type of the big hit game. The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the display result of the decorative symbols in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C04 (H). Therefore, the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C04 (H) are referred to as display result specifying commands.

  The command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the special symbol variable display (variation) is terminated and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. When receiving the symbol confirmation designation command, the effect control microcomputer 100 ends the variable display (fluctuation) of the decorative symbols and derives and displays the display result. The derived display is to finally stop and display the symbol.

  Command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (power-on designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Command 9200 (H) is an effect control command (power failure recovery designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is resumed. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the gaming control microcomputer 560 transmits a power failure recovery designation command if data is stored in the backup RAM, and if not, designates power-on. Send a command.

  Command 9F00 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating a customer waiting demonstration.

  The command A000 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of the big hit game (big hit start designation command: fanfare designation command). The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (special command during opening of a big winning opening) indicating a display during the opening of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big winning opening) indicating the closing of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX.

  The command A301 (H) is an effect control command (a jackpot end 1 designation command: an ending 1 designation command) for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, designating the end of the jackpot game, and designating that it is a probable big hit. is there. Command A302 (H) displays a jackpot end screen, that is, specifies the end of the jackpot game, and also specifies an effect control command (special jackpot end 2 designation command: ending) that specifies that the jackpot has been a non-probable variation jackpot (usually a jackpot) 2 designation command).

  The command C0XX (H) is an effect control command (holding memory number designation command) for designating the starting winning memory number (holding memory number). XX indicates the number of reserved memories.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the above-described effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31. Then, the display state of the variable display device 9 is changed according to the contents shown in FIG. 16, the display state of the lamp is changed, or the sound number data is output to the audio output board 70.

  FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the transmission timing of the effect control command. As shown in FIG. 17, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a variation pattern command, a display result specifying command, and a pending storage number designation command at the start of variation. When the variable display time has elapsed, a symbol confirmation designation command is transmitted.

  Before transmitting the variation pattern command, a background designation command for designating a background image in the variable display device 9 according to the gaming state (for example, normal state / short time state / probability variation state) may be transmitted.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of a program of special symbol process (step S26) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process, a process for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process, the CPU 56 performs start port switch passing processing if the start port switch 14a for detecting that a game ball has won the start winning port 14 is turned on, that is, if a start winning has occurred. Execute (step S312). Then, any one of steps S300 to S310 is performed.

  The processes in steps S300 to S310 are as follows.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is zero. When the game control microcomputer 560 is ready to start the variable display of the special symbol, it checks the number of reserved memories (the number of start winning memories). The reserved memory number can be confirmed by the count value of the reserved memory number counter. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) corresponding to step S301.

  Special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S301): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. The stop symbol after the variable display of the special symbol is determined. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) corresponding to step S302.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S302): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. The variation pattern is determined, and the variation time in the variation pattern (variable display time: the time from when variable display is started until the display result is derived and displayed (stop display)) is used as the variable symbol variable display variation time. To decide. In addition, a variation time timer that measures the variation time of the determined special symbol is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (3 in this example) corresponding to step S303.

  Display result specifying command transmission process (step S303): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. Control for transmitting a display result specifying command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (4 in this example) corresponding to step S304.

  Reserved memory number transmission processing (step S304): This processing is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. Control is performed to transmit a reserved memory number designation command to the production control microcomputer 100. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305.

  Special symbol changing process (step S305): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in step S302 times out, that is, the variation time timer value becomes 0), the internal state (special symbol process flag) is stepped. Update to a value corresponding to S306 (6 in this example).

  Special symbol stop process (step S306): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. The variable display on the special symbol display 8 is stopped and the stop symbol is derived and displayed. In addition, control for transmitting a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed. If the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S307 (7 in this example). If the big hit flag is not set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 (0 in this example). The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the variable display device 9 to stop the decorative symbols when it receives the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560.

  Big hit display process (step S307): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. A predetermined period is measured by the big hit display time timer, and when the predetermined period elapses, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S308 (8 in this example).

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S308): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 8. In the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S309 (9 in this example). The pre-opening process for the big winning opening is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the pre-opening process for the big winning opening is also a process for starting the big hit game.

  Large winning opening opening process (step S309): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 9. A control for transmitting an effect control command for round display during the big hit gaming state to the effect control microcomputer 100, a process for confirming the completion of the closing condition of the big prize opening, and the like are performed. If the closing condition for the big prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S308. When all rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S310 (in this example, 10 (decimal number)).

  Big hit end process (step S310): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 10. Control for causing the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended is performed. Further, a process for setting a flag (for example, a probability variation flag) indicating a gaming state is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process in step S312. In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the reserved storage number is 4 which is the upper limit value (step S111). If the number of reserved memories is 4, the process is terminated.

  When the number of reserved memories is not 4, the value of the reserved memory number counter indicating the number of reserved memories is incremented by 1 (step S112). Further, the CPU 56 extracts software random numbers (such as a counter value for generating a jackpot determination random number), and stores them as a storage area in the reserved storage buffer corresponding to the value of the reserved storage number counter as the extracted random number value. The process to store in is executed (step S113). In the reserved storage buffer, the same number of storage areas as the upper limit value of the reserved storage number are secured. Further, a counter for generating a jackpot determination random number and the like and a holding storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55. In step 113, random values 1 to 4 (see FIG. 7) are extracted and stored in the storage area. Further, control is performed to transmit a reserved memory number designation command in which the value of the reserved memory number counter is set in the EXT data (step S114).

  Specifically, when the CPU 56 transmits an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the address of the command transmission table corresponding to the effect control command (preliminarily set for each command in the ROM) is given. Set to pointer. And the address of the command transmission table according to an effect control command is set to a pointer, and an effect control command is transmitted in an effect control command control process (step S28).

  In addition, when receiving the reserved memory number designation command, the effect control microcomputer 100 changes the display state of the special symbol hold memory display unit 18.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 checks the value of the number of reserved storage (step S51). Specifically, the count value of the pending storage number counter is confirmed.

  If the reserved memory number is not 0, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = 1 in the reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S52). Then, the value of the reserved memory number is decreased by 1 (the count value of the reserved memory number counter is decremented by 1), and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S53). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55 is stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = n−1. To store. Therefore, the order in which the random number values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the number of reserved memories is extracted always matches the order of the number of reserved memories = 1, 2, 3 and 4. Yes. Thereafter, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S301) (step S54).

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop symbol setting process, the CPU 56 reads random 1 (random number for jackpot determination) from the random number buffer area (step S61), and executes the jackpot determination module (step S62). The jackpot determination module compares a jackpot determination value (see FIG. 8) determined in advance with a jackpot determination random number, and executes a process of determining a jackpot (probability jackpot or normal jackpot) if they match. It is a program. When the gaming state is a probable change state, the CPU 56 uses the jackpot determination value in the table in which the jackpot determination values for the number as shown in FIG. In the case of the probability variation state), the jackpot determination value in the table in which the jackpot determination value as shown in FIG. 8A is set is used. If it is determined to be a big hit (step S63), the process proceeds to step S81. Note that deciding whether or not to make a big hit means deciding whether or not to shift to the big win gaming state, but deciding whether or not to make the stop symbol in the special symbol display 8 a big hit symbol. It is also a thing. Also, in the process of step S62, it is also determined whether 3R jackpot, 8R jackpot, or 15R jackpot (see FIG. 8).

  If it is decided not to win, the CPU 56 reads out the design symbol random number from the random number buffer area (step S64), and determines the stop symbol based on the design symbol random number (step S65). In this case, an off symbol (for example, any of even symbols) is determined.

  Further, when the time reduction flag indicating the time reduction state is set (step S95), the value of the time reduction counter indicating the number of times the special symbol can be changed in the time reduction state is decremented by 1 (step S96). When the value of the time reduction counter becomes 0, a time reduction end flag is set in order to shift the gaming state to the non-time reduction state when the variable display ends (steps S97 and S98). Then, control goes to a step S86.

  In step S81, the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag. Then, the big hit symbol determining random number is read from the random number buffer area (step S82), and the big hit symbol (for example, one of the odd symbols) is determined as the stop symbol based on the big hit symbol determining random number (step S83). Here, the stop symbol is determined without distinguishing between the probable big hit and the normal big hit. Also, in this embodiment, the special symbol is relatively inconspicuous compared to the decorative symbol, so the decorative symbol does not distinguish between the probable big hit and the normal big hit, and only the special symbol distinguishes the probable big hit from the normal big hit. You may make it do.

  Next, the CPU 56 sets a probability variation jackpot flag if it is determined to be a probability variation jackpot (steps S82 and S85). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S302) (step S86). When the probability change big hit flag is set, the game state is shifted to the probability change state when the big hit game ends.

  In this embodiment, whether or not to make a big hit and whether or not to control the probability variation state is determined based on the big hit determination random number (see FIG. 8), but based on the big hit determination random number And determining whether or not to make a big hit, and determining to control to a probable change state when a predetermined big win symbol (predetermined probability variation big hit symbol) is determined based on the random number for determining the big hit symbol You may do it.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S302) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 reads the variation pattern determination random number from the random number buffer area (step S101). Then, a variation pattern is selected from the variation pattern table (see FIG. 13) based on the variation pattern determination random number (step S102). Here, when the gaming state is a non-time saving state and it is determined to be out of play, a variation pattern is selected from the out-of-range variation pattern table (see FIG. 13A). When the gaming state is in the non-time-saving state and it is determined to be a big hit, the fluctuation pattern is selected from the big hit fluctuation pattern table (see FIG. 13B). If the gaming state is the short time state and it is determined to be out of time, the fluctuation pattern is selected from the deviation fluctuation pattern table (see FIG. 13C) during the short time. When the gaming state is the short-time state and it is determined to be a big hit, the fluctuation pattern is selected from the short-time big hit fluctuation pattern table (see FIG. 13D).

  Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a variation pattern command (see FIG. 16) corresponding to the variation pattern selected in step S102 to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S103). Moreover, the variation of the special symbol is started (step S104). For example, a start flag referred to in the special symbol display control process in step S32 is set. Further, a value corresponding to the variation time is set in the variation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S105). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the display result specifying command transmission process (step S303) (step S106).

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the display result specifying command transmission process (step S303). In the display result specifying command transmission process, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit any effect control command (see FIG. 16) from the display result 1 designation to the display result 4 designation according to the determined jackpot type (see FIG. 16). Step S107). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the reserved storage number designation command transmission process (step S304) (step S108).

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the pending storage number designation command transmission process (step S304). In the reserved memory number designation command transmission process, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a reserved memory number designation command in which the value of the reserved memory number counter is set in the EXT data (step S117). Thereafter, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S305) (step S118).

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the special symbol changing process (step S305) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol changing process, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the variable time timer (step S121), and when the variable time timer times out (step S122), the value of the special symbol process flag corresponds to the special symbol stop process (step S306). The updated value is updated (step S123). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process ends.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S306) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 sets an end flag referred to in the special symbol display control process in step S32 to end the variation of the special symbol, and performs control for deriving and displaying the stop symbol on the special symbol display unit 8. (Step S131). Moreover, control which transmits the symbol determination designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for production control is performed (step S132). When the big hit flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S146 (step S133).

  When the big hit flag is set, the initial notification flag and the probability change notification flag are reset (step S134). When the initial notification has been executed, the execution of notification of whether or not the initial notification is in the probable change state is completed by resetting these flags (see state notification processing described later). In addition, when performing the process of step S134, the initial notification flag and the probability change notification flag may not be set. Therefore, instead of the process of unconditionally resetting these flags, it may be confirmed whether or not those flags are set, and if they are set, they may be reset.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a jackpot start designation command (step S135). In addition, a value corresponding to the jackpot display time (time for notifying the occurrence of the jackpot in the variable display device 9, for example) is set in the jackpot display time timer (step S136), and the value of the special symbol process flag is set to the jackpot display processing ( The value is updated to a value corresponding to step S307) (step S137). In the big hit display process, when the big hit display time timer times out, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the big winning opening opening pre-process (step S308).

  In step S146, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction end flag is set. If the time saving end flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S149. If the time reduction end flag is set, the time reduction end flag is reset (step S147), and the time reduction flag is reset (step S148). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S149).

  The time reduction end flag is set in step S98 in the special symbol stop symbol setting process. In addition, the gaming state shifts to a non-time saving state by resetting the time saving flag. At this stage, if the gaming state is a probability variation state, the gaming state becomes a probability variation state of a non-short-time state. On the other hand, if it is in the non-probable change state, it shifts to a normal state (a state that is not in the probabilistic change state and is not in the time-short state).

  Further, in this embodiment, when the first big hit occurs, the probability change notification flag is reset and the initial notification flag is reset to stop the notification of whether or not the probability change state, but the gaming state is a short time state The notification of whether or not it may be continued. In that case, in the process of step S134, the probability change notification flag is reset, but the initial notification flag is not reset. Then, although the process of step S175 described later is executed, the process of step S178 is not executed (the process of step S180 is executed), and only the notification by the right notification lamp 63B is continued. That is, the notification of whether or not the time is short is not limited to the initial notification executed in a predetermined period after the start of power supply. In addition, in the case of controlling so as to continue the notification of whether or not the gaming state is the short-time state, when the power supply is started, it is not executed on the condition that the gaming state restoration process has been executed. Alternatively, it may be executed when the initialization process is executed. In the case of such control, for example, the initial notification flag and the short time notification flag may be set in the process of step S12.

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the big hit end process (step S310) in the special symbol process. In the big hit end process, the CPU 56 resets the big hit flag (step S150). Further, control for transmitting a jackpot end designation command is performed (step S151). If the probability variation jackpot flag is set, a jackpot end 1 designation command is transmitted. If the probability variation jackpot flag is not set, a jackpot end 2 designation command is transmitted.

  Further, the time reduction flag is set to shift the gaming state to the time reduction state (step S152), and 100 is set in the time reduction counter (step S153).

  Then, it is confirmed whether or not the probability variation big hit flag is set (step S154). If the probability variation jackpot flag is set, the probability variation jackpot flag is reset (step S155). The probability variation flag is set and the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state (step S156). If the gaming state at that time is a probability variation state, the probability variation flag has already been set. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S157).

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the state notification process in step S34. In the state notification process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the initial notification flag is set (step S171). If the initial notification flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S181. If the initial notification flag is set, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the notification timer is 0 (step S172). The notification timer is formed in the RAM 55 and is initialized to 0 in the process of step S42. If the value of the notification timer is not 0, the value of the notification timer is set to −1 and the process is terminated (step S173).

  When the value of the notification timer is 0, it is confirmed whether or not the time reduction notification flag is set (step S174). If the time reduction notification flag is not set, the right notification lamp 63B is turned off (step S176), and the process proceeds to step S177. When the time reduction notification flag is set, the lighting state of the right notification lamp 63B is switched (step S176). That is, when the right notification lamp 63B is lit, the light is turned off, and when the right notification lamp 63B is turned off, the light is turned on. Then, control goes to a step S177.

  In step S177, it is confirmed whether or not the probability change notification flag is set. If not set, the left notification lamp 63A is turned off (step S180), and the process proceeds to step S179. When the probability change notification flag is set, the lighting state of the left notification lamp 63A is switched (step S178). That is, if the left notification lamp 63A is lit, the light is turned off, and if the left notification lamp 63A is turned off, the light is turned on. Then, a value corresponding to 0.5 seconds is set in the notification timer (step S179).

  In step S181, the left notification lamp 63A and the right notification lamp 63B are turned off.

  With the above control, when the initial notification flag is set and the time reduction flag is set in a state where the probability variation notification flag is not set, only the right notification lamp 63B is turned on at intervals of 0.5 seconds. Flashes (steps S174, S175, S177, S180). When the initial notification flag is set and the time variation flag is not set in the state where the probability change notification flag is not set, the right notification lamp 63B is kept off (steps S174 and S176). Further, the left notification lamp 63A is not turned on (S177, S180). Therefore, when the probability change notification flag is not set, the right notification lamp 63B notifies whether or not the time reduction flag is set when the game state restoration process is executed. That is, when the time reduction flag is set, the right notification lamp 63B blinks at intervals of 0.5 seconds, and when the time reduction flag is not set, the right notification lamp 63B is kept off. .

  Further, when the probability change notification flag is set, the left notification lamp 63A notifies whether or not the probability change flag has been set when the game state restoration process is executed. That is, when the probability change flag is set, the left notification lamp 63A blinks at intervals of 0.5 seconds (steps S177 and S178), and when the probability change flag is not set, the left notification lamp 63A. Remains off (steps S177 and S180).

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (step S701). . Then, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring the timer interrupt flag (step S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and executes a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704). Next, the effect control CPU 101 executes effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the variable display device 9 is executed. In addition, a random number update process is executed to update a counter value of a counter for generating a predetermined random number (for example, a random number for determining a stop symbol, a random number for determining a specific effect end time, a random number for determining an effect mode) ( Step S706). Furthermore, a specific effect control process is executed to execute a specific effect that is an effect that allows the player to determine whether or not the game state is a probabilistic state (step S707). In addition, a round number notification control process for executing a round number notification process for notifying the number of rounds of the big hit game according to the player's requested operation is executed (step S708). Further, effect state control processing is executed to enable the player to determine whether or not the game state is a probable change state based on the background symbol on the variable display device 9 (step S709). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs any one of steps S800 to S807 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern command is received from the game control microcomputer 560. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern command reception flag set in the command analysis process is set. If the variation pattern command has been received, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the notice selection process (step S801).

  Advance selection process (step S801): In the variable display device 9, it is determined whether or not to execute the advance notice process for notifying the player of the occurrence of the big hit, and when it is decided to execute the advance effect process. Determines the notice type. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation start process (step S802).

  Decoration symbol variation start processing (step S802): Control is performed so that the variation of the ornament symbol is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol changing process (step S803).

  Decoration symbol variation processing (step S803): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern and monitors the end of the variation time. When the variation time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation stop process (step S804).

  Decoration symbol variation stop processing (step S804): Based on the reception of the effect control command (design determination designation command) for instructing all symbols to stop, the variation of the ornament symbol is stopped and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Take control. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S805) or the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  Jackpot display process (step S805): After the end of the variation time, control is performed to display a screen for notifying the variable display device 9 of the occurrence of a jackpot. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (step S806).

  Big hit game processing (step S806): Control during the big hit game is performed. For example, when an effect control command for display before opening the big winning opening or display when opening the big winning opening is received, display control of the number of rounds in the variable display device 9 is performed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit end process (step S807).

  Big hit end processing (step S807): In the variable display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S811). If the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variation pattern command reception flag is reset (step S812). The variation pattern command reception flag is set in the command analysis process when a variation pattern command is received. In the command analysis process, the received fluctuation pattern command or data indicating the received fluctuation pattern command is stored in the fluctuation pattern command storage area of the RAM. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the notice selection process (step S801) (step S813).

  FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol variation start process (step S802) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the decorative symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 reads the variation pattern command or data indicating the received variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (step S820).

  Next, the display result (stop symbol) of the decorative symbol is determined according to the data stored in the display result specifying command storage area of the RAM (that is, the received display result specifying command) (step S821). In the command analysis process, the received display result specifying command or data indicating the received display result specifying command is stored in the display result specifying command storage area of the RAM. The effect control CPU 101 stores data indicating the display result of the determined decorative symbol in the decorative symbol display result storage area.

  In step S821, the effect control CPU 101 extracts a predetermined random number and determines a stop symbol based on the extracted random number. At this time, if a display result specifying command indicating display error (display result 1 designation command) is received, a combination of stop symbols that reminds of the error (for example, left middle right symbol does not match, or left and right symbols The middle symbol does not match). When the variation pattern command with reach effect or the data indicating the received variation pattern command is stored in the variation pattern command storage area, the combination of the stop symbol that matches the left and right symbols but not the middle symbol is determined. When the variation pattern command not having the reach effect or the data indicating the received variation pattern command is stored in the variation pattern command storage area, the combination of the stop symbols in which the left middle right symbol does not match is determined. In addition, when a display result specifying command (display result 2 to display result 4 designation command) indicating a big hit is received, a combination of stop symbols that recalls a big hit (for example, the left middle right symbol matches) decide. Note that a combination of decorative symbols that evokes a big hit is sometimes referred to as a big winning symbol, and a combination of decorative symbols that evokes a loss is sometimes referred to as a lost symbol. Further, in this embodiment, the big hit symbol is determined without distinguishing whether the probability variation big hit or the normal big hit.

  Then, the production control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the variation pattern (step S822). Then, a process timer corresponding to the production execution data 1 in the selected process data is started (step S823). Next, the production control CPU 101 performs the production device (the variable display device 9 as the production component, the production component as the production component according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1). Control of the various lamps and the speaker 27 as a production component is executed (step S824). For example, in order to display an image corresponding to the variation pattern on the variable display device 9, a command is output to the VDP 109. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27.

  In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 performs control so that the decorative pattern is variably displayed by the change pattern corresponding to the change pattern command on a one-to-one basis. The variation pattern to be used may be selected from a plurality of types of variation patterns corresponding to.

  Then, a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command is set in the variation time timer (step S825), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation process (step S803). (Step S826).

  FIG. 33 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the process table. The process table is a table in which process data referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls effect devices (effect components) such as the variable display device 9 in accordance with the data set in the process table. The process table includes data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data are collected. The display control execution data includes data indicating each variation mode constituting the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the decorative symbols. Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the variable display device 9 is described. The process timer set value is set with a change time in the form of the change. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table and performs control to display the decorative pattern in the variation mode set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value.

  The process table shown in FIG. 33 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. A process table is prepared for each variation pattern. Furthermore, different process tables are prepared according to the difference in the notice effect mode (notice type) when the notice effect is executed.

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing the decorative symbol variation process (step S803) in the effect control process. In the decorative symbol variation process, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S831), and subtracts 1 from the value of the variation time timer (step S832). When the process timer expires, process data is switched (steps S833 and S834). That is, the process timer set value set next in the process table is set in the process timer, and the control for the effect device is performed based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data set next. Change state.

  If the variation time timer has timed out (step S835), the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation stop process (step S804) (step S837). Even if the variable time timer has not timed out, if the confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (step S836), the process proceeds to step S837. Even if the variation time timer has not timed out, if the symbol confirmation designation command is received, the process shifts to control to stop variation.For example, a variation pattern command indicating a long variation time due to noise between substrates is received. Even in such a case, the variation of the decorative symbol can be terminated when the regular variation time has elapsed (when the variation of the special symbol has ended).

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol variation stop process (step S804) in the effect control process. In the decorative symbol variation stop process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the confirmed command reception flag is set (step S851). If the confirmed command reception flag is set, the confirmed command reception flag is reset. (Step S842), and control for deriving and displaying the stop symbol is performed (Step S843). Then, the production control CPU 101 confirms whether or not it is determined to be a big hit (step S844). Whether or not it is determined to be a big hit is confirmed, for example, by a display result specifying command stored in the display result specifying command storage area.

  If it is determined to be a big hit, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit display process (step S805) (step S845).

  If it is determined not to win, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the time-short state flag is set (step S846). The short time state flag is set when the gaming state is the short time state (see step S884 described later). If the time-short state flag is set, the value of the time-short fluctuation count counter is incremented by 1 (step S848).

  And it is confirmed whether the specific production state standby flag is set (step S849). The specific effect state standby flag is set in the big hit end process described later. If the specific effect state standby flag is set, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the time variation number counter is 33 (step S850). If the value of the hourly fluctuation count counter is 33, the specific effect state standby flag is reset (step S851), and the specific effect execution flag is set (step S852). The specific effect execution flag is referred to in a specific effect control process described later, and the specific effect is started when the specific effect execution flag is set. That is, in this embodiment, after the big hit game is finished and the gaming state is controlled to the short-time state, when the variable display of the special symbol and the decorative symbol is executed 33 times, the specific effect is started.

  In addition, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the value of the short time variation number counter is 100 (step S853). If the value of the hour / short fluctuation counter is 100, the hour / short state flag is reset (step S854). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S855).

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the jackpot display process (step S805) in the effect control process. In the big hit display process, the CPU 101 for effect control controls the background symbol of the variable display device 9 to be the background symbol of the effect mode 2 (step S871). Specifically, the VDP 109 is instructed to display the background symbol of the effect mode 2. Then, a fanfare flag (set when a jackpot start designation command is received in the command analysis process) indicating that a jackpot start designation command (a jackpot start 1 designation command or a jackpot start 2 designation command) has been received is set. It is confirmed whether or not (step S872). If the fanfare flag has been set, the fanfare flag is reset (step S873), and a round number notification permission flag indicating that execution of the round number notification control is permitted is set (step S874). In this embodiment, the round number notification permission flag is set at the time when the first round is completed (when a designation command is received after opening the first prize opening in the first round) in the big hit game processing (step S806). Reset.

  And control which displays a big hit game start screen on the variable display apparatus 9 is performed (step S875). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (step S806) (step S876).

  FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing the big hit end process (step S807) in the effect control process. In the jackpot end process, the effect control CPU 101 receives a jackpot end designation command reception flag indicating that the jackpot end designation command has been received (in the command analysis process, the jackpot end designation command (the jackpot end 1 designation command or the jackpot end 2 designation command). Is set) (step S881). When the big hit end designation command reception flag is set, the big hit end designation command reception flag is reset (step S882), and control for displaying the big hit end screen on the variable display device 9 is performed (step S883). Specifically, an instruction to display the big hit end screen is given to the VDP 109.

  Then, the time reduction state flag is set (step S884), and 0 is set in the time reduction variation counter (step S885). Further, the specific effect execution flag is reset (step S886). If the specific effect is executed by resetting the specific effect execution flag, the execution of the specific effect is stopped.

  Then, a random number for determining the end point of the specific effect is extracted (step S887). When the jackpot end 1 designation command has been received as the jackpot end designation command (step S888), the specific effect end time is selected from the probability variation table based on the random number for determining the specific effect end time (step S889). Then, a probability change state flag indicating that the game state is a probability change state is set (step S890), and the process proceeds to step S891. If the jackpot end 1 designation command has not been received (if the jackpot end 2 designation command has been received), the specific effect end time is selected from the non-probable change time table based on the random number for determining the specific effect end time. (Step S894). Then, the probability variation state flag is reset (step S895), and the process proceeds to step S891.

  FIG. 38A is an explanatory diagram showing an uncertain change table. FIG. 38B is an explanatory diagram showing a probability variation table. In the non-probability change time table and the probability change time table, a determination value that is compared with the value of the random number for determining the end point of the specific effect is data indicating the end point of the specific effect (in this example, the number of fluctuations from the start point of the specific effect) It is set in correspondence. The effect control CPU 101 selects the specific effect end start time corresponding to the comparison value that matches the value of the specific effect end time determination random number.

  As shown in FIG. 38, when the gaming state is in a probable state, the specific effect end time is 11, 33, and 77 times (the 10th place and the 1st place are the same value) in the non-probable state. It is selected at a higher rate than in some cases. Therefore, the player can infer that the game state seems to be a probable change state when the specific effect ends when the variable display is executed a number of times that the 10th place and the 1st place have the same value.

  In step S891, data indicating the selected specific effect end point is stored in a storage area (formed in the RAM). Further, a specific effect standby flag indicating that the specific effect is to be started when the predetermined variable display is executed is set (step S892). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S893).

  FIG. 39 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a specific effect using the effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c, 61d. In FIG. 39, shaded portions indicate lighting. In this embodiment, the specific effect is an effect that turns on the effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c, and 61d in order, as shown in FIGS. Next to the effect lamp 61d, the effect lamp 61a is turned on.

  FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing the specific effect control process in step S707. In the specific effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not an effect executing flag indicating that the specific effect is being executed is set (step S900). If the effect execution flag is not set, it is checked whether or not a specific effect execution flag (see step S852) for instructing execution of the specific effect is set (step S901). If the specific effect execution flag is set, only the effect lamp 61a is turned on (step S903), and a value corresponding to 0.5 seconds is set in the switching timer (formed in the RAM) (step S903). S904).

  If the effect execution flag is set, it is confirmed whether or not the specific effect execution flag is set (step S905). If the specific effect execution flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S912 in order to execute the process of ending the specific effect. The specific effect execution flag is reset at the end of the big hit game when the big hit game is newly executed (see step S886).

  If the specific effect execution flag is set, the value of the short time variation number counter is compared with the value stored in the storage area (data indicating the start time of the specific effect end) (step S906). If they match, the process proceeds to step S912 in order to execute a process of ending the specific effect.

  If the value of the short time variation counter does not match the value stored in the storage area, it is confirmed whether or not the round number notification flag is set (step S907). If the round number notification flag is set, the process ends. In this embodiment, the effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c, and 61d are also used to notify the number of rounds. Therefore, the process of step S907 is performed during the process of notifying the number of rounds. This is a process for interrupting the process.

  If the round number notification flag is not set, the value of the switching timer is decremented by 1 (step S908). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the switching timer has timed out (value has become 0) (step S909). When the switching timer has timed out, the effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c, 61d to be lit are switched (see FIG. 39). For example, when the effect lamp 61a is turned on, the effect lamp 61a is turned off and the effect lamp 61b is turned on.

  In step S912, all effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c, 61 are turned off. In addition, the effect execution flag and the specific effect execution flag are reset (steps S913, S914). Then, the specific effect end flag is set (step S915). When the specific effect end flag is set, a process for switching the effect state is executed in the effect state control process.

  FIG. 41 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of round number notification using the effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c, and 61d. In FIG. 41, shaded portions indicate lighting. In this embodiment, when 3R is notified, the effect lamps 61a and 61d are turned on as shown in FIG. Further, when notifying 8R, as shown in FIG. 41 (B), the effect lamps 61b and 61c are turned on. When notifying 15R, as shown in FIG. 41C, all the effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c, 61d are turned on.

  FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing the round number notification control process (step S708). In the round number notification control process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the round number notification flag is set (step S920). If the round number notification flag is not set, it is confirmed whether or not the round number notification permission flag (see step S874) is set (step S921). If the round number notification permission flag is set, it is confirmed whether or not the operation button 62 has been pressed (step S922). Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a pressing signal is output from the operation button 62.

  When the operation button 62 is pressed, the lighting state of the effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c, 61d (whether the lighting is on) is stored in the RAM (step S923). Then, the round number notification flag is set (step S924), and the lighting states of the effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c, 61d are set according to the received display result specifying command (step S925). In step S925, the effect lamps 61a and 61d are turned on when the display result 2 designation command is received, and the effect lamps 61b and 61c are turned on when the display result 3 designation command is received. When the 4 designation command is received, all effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c, 61d are turned on.

  When the round number notification flag is set, if it is confirmed that the round number notification permission flag is reset (step S926), the effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c are based on the state stored in the RAM. , 61d is restored (step S928).

  With the control described above, in this embodiment, if the player presses the operation button 62 between the start of the jackpot display process (see FIG. 36) and the end of the first round, The number of rounds is notified to the player by effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c, 61d.

  In this embodiment, when the operation button 62 is pressed, the determined round number is immediately notified. However, when the operation button 62 is pressed, the number of rounds smaller than the determined round number (for example, 8 rounds or 3 rounds when 15 rounds are determined, and when the operation button 62 is further pressed, the number of rounds determined (for example, 15 rounds) is notified, or the determined rounds The number of rounds close to the number (for example, 15 rounds) may be notified (for example, notification of 8 rounds when 3 rounds are initially notified). When the number of rounds close to the determined number of rounds is notified, when the operation button 62 is further pressed, the determined number of rounds is notified.

  Next, the production mode will be described. FIG. 43 is an explanatory diagram showing the types of effect modes and how the effect modes transition. As shown in FIG. 43A, in the effect mode 1, the background image of the variable display device 9 is controlled to an image in which petals have fallen. As shown in FIG. 43B, in the effect mode 2, the background image is controlled to an image in which clouds and lightning appear and the petals are falling.

  As shown in FIG. 43 (C), when the specific effect is finished, if the gaming state is a probable change state, it is controlled to effect mode 1, and thereafter, if a big hit occurs, it is controlled to effect mode 2. Further, when the specific effect is finished, if the game state is not a certain change state, the effect mode 1 or the effect mode 2 is controlled by lottery. If the result of the lottery is a win, the effect mode 2 is controlled. If the result of the lottery is lost, the effect mode 1 is controlled.

  FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing the effect state control process (step S709). In the effect state control process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the specific effect end flag is set (step S940). If the specific effect end flag is set, the specific effect end flag is reset (step S941). Further, it is confirmed whether or not the probability change state flag (see step S890) is set (step S942). If the probability variation state flag is not set, a rendering mode determination random number is extracted (step S944). Then, the effect mode determination random value extracted is compared with the effect mode determination value (step S945), and if the effect mode determination random value matches the effect mode determination value (if it is a win), step The process of S947 is executed, and if they do not match (if they are out of date), the process of step S948 is executed. If the probability change state flag is set, the process of step S948 is executed.

  In addition, although the process of step S944-S946 is called a fall lottery, for example, the execution timing of a fall lottery is not restricted to the time when a specific production is complete | finished. For example, it may be executed each time a predetermined variable display is performed.

  In step S947, control is performed so that the background symbol of the variable display device 9 becomes the background symbol of the effect mode 2 (see FIG. 43B). Specifically, the effect control CPU 101 gives an instruction to display the background symbol of effect mode 2 to the VDP 109. In step S948, control is performed so that the background symbol of the variable display device 9 becomes the background symbol of the effect mode 1 (see FIG. 43A). Specifically, the VDP 109 is instructed to display the background symbol of the effect mode 1.

  With the above-described control, after the specific effect is finished, the game mode is always controlled to the effect mode 1 if the game state is a certain change state, and if the game state is the non-probability change state, the effect mode 1 is controlled at a predetermined rate. . Therefore, the player can infer that the game state seems to be a probable change state because the background symbol is in the effect mode 1 after the specific effect is finished.

  In the above embodiment, when the variable display is executed 33 times after the end of the big hit game, the specific effect is started. However, the time when the specific effect is started is not limited to when the variable display is executed 33 times. Other times may be used. Moreover, it may be when the time-short state is finished. FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol stop process when a specific effect is started when the time-short state is finished. In the processing shown in FIG. 45, when the effect control CPU 101 resets the time reduction state flag (step S854), it checks whether or not the specific effect state standby flag is set (step S849A), and the specific effect state standby flag. Is set, the specific effect state standby flag is reset (step S851A), and the specific effect execution flag is set (step S852A). Other processing is the same as the processing in the above embodiment.

  As described above, in the present invention, the internal probability change state (actually, the gaming state is a probability change state, but the fact that the game state is controlled to the probability change state is not explicitly notified by a decorative symbol or the like. After the jackpot game is over, it can be inferred to the player by a specific performance that starts at a predetermined timing and is executed for a predetermined period, and after the specific performance ends. However, since the player can infer that it is in the internal probability change state by the production mode, the material for inferring whether or not the state has changed to the special game state (in this example, in the specific production and production mode) Switching) can be provided to the player over a long period of time, and the player's interest in the special gaming state can be maintained over a long period of time.

  In the above embodiment, the production control board 80, the audio output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as the boards on which the circuit for controlling the production apparatus is mounted. You may mount on one board | substrate. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) on which a circuit for controlling the variable display device 9 and the like is mounted and a circuit for controlling other effect devices (lamps, LEDs, speakers 27, etc.) are mounted. You may make it provide two board | substrates with two production | presentation control boards.

  In the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 directly transmits a command to the effect control microcomputer 100. However, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits another command (for example, FIG. 3). The sound output board 70 and the lamp driver board 35 shown in FIG. 5 or the sound / lamp board having the function of the circuit mounted on the sound output board 70 and the function of the circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35). A control command may be transmitted and transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 on the effect control board 80 via another board. In that case, the command may simply pass through another board, or the sound output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound / lamp board are equipped with control means such as a microcomputer, and the control means receives the command. In response to this, control related to sound control and lamp control is executed, and the received command is changed as it is or, for example, to a simplified command to control the variable display device 9. You may make it transmit to. Even in that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control in accordance with the effect control command directly received from the game control microcomputer 560 in the above-described embodiment. Display control can be performed in accordance with commands received from the board 35 or the sound / lamp board.

  In the above-described embodiment, when the specific effect is started, the control is performed continuously until the specific effect is started. However, the specific effect is displayed only during the period in which the special symbol and the decorative symbol are variably displayed. You may make it perform.

  In the above embodiment, the specific effects are executed by the effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c, 61d, but other effect devices (for example, the variable display device 9 and other lamps) provided in the gaming machine. Or LED). However, when the variable display device 9 is used, the specific effect using the decorative design is not executed, and the specific effect is executed based on a difference in the movement of the background symbols. For example, the background symbol when the specific effect is not executed and the background symbol in the specific effect are changed.

  Moreover, in said embodiment, although the effect lamps 61a, 61b, 61c, 61d used in a specific effect were used as a means to alert | report the number of rounds, it is round by an effect device different from the effect device used in a specific effect. You may make it alert | report a number. For example, the variable display device 9 may notify the number of rounds.

  In the above embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 determines the specific production end point (specifically, the variable display count after the start of the specific production) when receiving the jackpot end designation command. The end point of the specific effect may be determined when the variation pattern command is received. In the case of such control, the variation pattern command is configured to include information that can specify whether or not to control to the probability variation state. For example, different variation pattern commands are used for the probable big hit and the normal big hit. Further, the end point of the specific effect may be determined when the display result specifying command is received. In the case of such control, the display result specifying command is configured to include information that can specify whether or not the control is to be performed in the certain change state. For example, different display result specifying commands are used for probability variation big hits and normal big hits. Further, the specific effect end time may be determined when the jackpot start designation command is received. In the case of such control, the jackpot start designation command is configured to include information that can specify whether or not to control to the probability variation state. For example, different big hit start designation commands are used for the probable big hit and the normal big hit.

  The game control microcomputer 560, for example, is a background designation command transmitted to designate the type of background when starting variable display, and the background designation command is different in the probability variation big hit and the normal big hit. The effect control microcomputer 100 may determine the end point of the specific effect in response to reception of the background designation command when starting the specific effect. In the case of such control, the effect control microcomputer 100 does not display the background image corresponding to the type of the background designated by the background designation command when the specific effect is being executed, and the internal probability changing state. In order for the player to be able to infer that this is the case, a display of a background image to be executed over the determined number of executions (that is, a background image used over the determined number of executions) is selected.

  In the above embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 ends the initial notification when a big hit occurs for the first time (see step S134), but ends the initial notification at another timing. Also good. For example, when the game state recovery process recovers to the short time state, the initial notification may be ended when the short time state ends.

  In the above embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 starts notification of the number of rounds in the jackpot game (the maximum number of rounds that can be executed) when the jackpot display for notifying that a jackpot has occurred is performed. When the first round is over, the round number notification is ended (see FIG. 36), but the round number notification is started and ended during the initial round during the jackpot game, or the number of rounds is displayed during variable display. Notification may be started and ended. Furthermore, the operation button 62 is allowed to be operated during execution of variable display that is out of place, and when that is pressed, a predetermined number of rounds (actually, the big hit game is not started) may be notified. Good.

  In the above embodiment, the specific effect is executed after the big hit game ends. However, the specific effect is executed according to the player's operation or the power supply to the gaming machine is started. The specific effect may be executed when a predetermined operation (for example, pressing of the operation button 62) is performed within a predetermined time. In that case, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits an effect control command indicating whether or not the game state is a probable change state to the effect control microcomputer 100 at the start of power supply, and the effect control microcomputer When 100 receives the effect control command, 100 executes the process of steps S889 to S890, or the process of S894 to S895 and the process of step S891 (see FIG. 37), and further executes control to start the specific effect. .

  The present invention is a gaming machine that can be controlled to a special gaming state, but does not notify the player whether or not it is controlled to the special gaming state by the identification information or the like with a variable display device or the like that variably displays the identification information. Applied.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of VDP. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 2 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a big hit determination value. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a power-off process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a transition of a game state. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a power-off process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern table. FIG. 38E illustrates an effect control command signal line. It is a timing chart showing the relationship between an 8-bit control signal and an INT signal constituting a control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the transmission timing of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop symbol setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a display result specific command transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows pending storage number designation command transmission processing. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows a state alerting | reporting process. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control main process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration design change start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of process data. It is a flowchart which shows a process during decoration design change. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration design change stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit display process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is explanatory drawing which shows a non-probability change time table and a probability change time table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a specific effect. It is a flowchart which shows a specific effect control process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a round number alert | report. It is a flowchart which shows a round number alerting | reporting control process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the method of the kind of effect mode, and the transition of effect mode. It is a flowchart which shows an effect state control process. It is a flowchart which shows the other example of a decoration symbol stop process.

Explanation of symbols

1 Pachinko machine 8 Special symbol display 9 Variable display 14 Start winning opening 31 Game control board (main board)
56 CPU
61a, 61b, 61c, 61d Effect lamp 62 Operation button 63A Left notification lamp 63B Right notification lamp 560 Game control microcomputer 80 Effect control board 100 Effect control microcomputer 101 Effect control CPU
109 VDP

Claims (5)

A specific gaming state that includes a variable display device that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them and that displays and displays a display result, and that is advantageous to the player when the specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display device When the predetermined transition condition is satisfied, the display state of the variable display of the identification information becomes the specific display result as compared with the normal state after the specific gaming state ends. It is a gaming machine that shifts to an easy special gaming state,
Whether or not the display result derived and displayed on the variable display device is the specific display result and whether or not the predetermined transition condition is satisfied;
Variable display control means for controlling variable display of identification information in the variable display device based on the determination of the prior determination means;
A specific effect starting means for starting a specific effect by an effect device provided in the gaming machine at a predetermined time after the specific game state is ended;
A specific effect period determining means for determining the number of executions of variable display of identification information, which is a period in which the specific effect is executed;
Based on the fact that the number of executions determined by the specific effect period determining means has been reached, the specific effect end means for ending the specific effect,
The variable display control means executes variable display of identification information in a common variable display mode regardless of whether or not the special gaming state,
The specific effect period determining means determines that the determination result of the prior determination means is when the determination result of the prior determination means when shifting to the specific gaming state satisfies the predetermined transition condition. The gaming machine is characterized in that a specific number of times is determined as the number of executions at a higher rate than when the predetermined transition condition is not satisfied. A gaming machine that, when the specific gaming state is finished, shifts the gaming state to a time shortening state in which a variable display time that is a variable display period of identification information is shortened,
Game control means for controlling the progress of the game;
Gaming state notifying means for notifying the gaming state;
Power supply monitoring means for monitoring a state of a predetermined power source used in the gaming machine and outputting a voltage drop detection signal to the game control means based on a detection condition relating to the stop of power supply to the gaming machine being satisfied; With
The game control means includes
Storage means for storing data that fluctuates in accordance with the progress of the game, and holding the stored contents for at least a predetermined period even when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped;
In response to the power monitoring means outputting the voltage drop detection signal, the power supply stop is executed to execute the power supply stop processing for saving the data necessary for restoring the game progress state in the storage means. Time processing means;
When power supply to the gaming machine is started, it is determined whether or not data indicating that the gaming state is a special gaming state is stored in the storage means. Special gaming state data setting means for setting the data of,
Control for notifying the gaming state by means of the gaming state notification means whether the gaming state is a time saving state, and control for notifying that the gaming state is a special gaming state when the predetermined data is set. Game state notification control means to perform,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising special gaming state data initializing means for initializing the predetermined data at a predetermined timing after power supply to the gaming machine is started. A gaming machine capable of shifting to a plurality of specific gaming states,
Operation means for outputting an operation signal in accordance with a player's operation;
Specific game state type determining means for determining the type of the specific game state;
Specific game state type notifying means for notifying the type of the specific game state;
Specific game state type notification control means for performing control to notify the specific game state type determined by the specific game state type determination means by the specific game state type notification means based on an operation to the operation means. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2. A gaming machine that, when the specific gaming state is finished, shifts the gaming state to a time shortening state in which a variable display time that is a variable display period of identification information is shortened,
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the specific effect starting means starts the specific effect when the time reduction state as the predetermined time is finished. A gaming machine capable of performing an effect based on a plurality of effect modes,
A first effect mode setting means for setting the effect mode to the specific effect mode when the specific effect is ended and the game state is the special game state;
A second effect mode setting means for setting the effect mode to the specific effect mode or the normal effect mode different from the specific effect mode by a lottery when the game state is not the special game state when the specific effect ends; The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

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