JP2008206710A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine, acquiring the progress of a game while looking at display of external information, and enjoying special presentation according to a change in game status. <P>SOLUTION: This game machine includes: display means for performing variation display of a plurality of decorative patterns as identification information and presentation display related to the progress of a game including stop display, and external information display not related to the progress of the game within the same display area; and display control means for selectively enlarging one of a game display area where the presentation is displayed and an external information display area where the external information is displayed and displaying the same, wherein the display control means enlarges the game display area according to a change in the game status, and displays a predetermined special presentation within the game display area concerned. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine represented by a pachinko gaming machine or a pachislot gaming machine.

  Pachinko machines and pachislot machines are known as typical examples of this type of gaming machine, and these gaming machines generally include a game starting means for starting a game by a player's operation, Special game lottery means for lottering with a predetermined lottery probability whether or not to shift from a normal game to a special game advantageous to the player when a predetermined condition is satisfied during execution of the game started by the game start means; According to the lottery result of the special game lottery means, there is provided a display for displaying effects related to the progress of the game, including a variation display and a stop display of a plurality of decorative symbols serving as identification information.

  In a game hall (hall) in which a large number of such gaming machines are installed, a television monitor is arranged between each gaming machine so that the player can watch television even while playing. There are places that are trying to improve service to players while aiming to alleviate fatigue.

  Since the television monitor is near the gaming machine, if the player concentrates too much on the television, the progress of the game may not be grasped. So, for example, taking a pachinko gaming machine as an example, on the display provided on the game board, while simultaneously displaying the TV image and the variation of the decorative design, the player displays either one large, There has been proposed a pachinko gaming machine that allows the user to watch television while grasping the progress of the game (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Further, according to this Patent Document 1, it is possible to select which one of the TV image and the decorative symbol variation display is displayed larger by the player's key operation, and also select the auto mode. Then, a predetermined game state (for example, a special game state advantageous to the player, or one of a plurality of decorative symbols is in a variable state, and the decorative symbol in the variation is the same as the other decorative symbols that are displayed in a stopped state. It is also described that when the symbol is stopped and displayed, the state of change of the decorative symbol is automatically displayed in a so-called “reach state” in which the game shifts to the special game.
JP-A-8-196692

  However, although the pachinko gaming machine certainly displays a large variation in the decorative symbol depending on the gaming state, it is easy to grasp the progress of the game, but the decorative symbol simply increases. There was no technical idea to entertain the production display, and it was only to enlarge either the TV image or the decorative design.

  In recent years, the production display using images of pachinko machines and pachislot machines has become an intriguing content using animations and so on. There is a demand for a gaming machine that can display related effects on a large screen. An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can solve the above-described problems.

  (1) In the present invention, the effect display related to the progress of the game including the variable display and stop display of a plurality of decorative symbols serving as identification information and the external information display not related to the progress of the game are displayed in the same display area. Display means capable of performing, display control means for selectively enlarging and displaying any one of the game display area where the effect display is made and the external information display area where the external information display is made, The display control means is a gaming machine that expands the game display area in accordance with a change in the game situation and performs a predetermined special effect display in the game display area.

  (2) In the present invention, in (1), the display control means performs a special effect display when a game medium is newly rented from a game medium lending means for renting a game medium used for a game for a fee. Features.

  (3) In the present invention, in (1) or (2), when either the game display area or the external information display area is enlarged, the enlarged display state is fixed by a player's operation. And the display control means displays a special effect that is displayed when the game display area is enlarged and displayed in accordance with a change in the game situation and when the game display area is fixed in an enlarged display state by the player's operation. It is characterized by different contents.

  (4) In the present invention, in any of the above (1) to (3), the change in the game situation means that one of a plurality of decorative symbols is in a variable state, and the decorative symbol being changed is another stop display. When the display is stopped in the same design as the decorative design being made, it is a case where the game shifts to a special game advantageous to the player, and the display control means is a reliability indicating a high degree of probability of shifting to the special game. According to the method, the size of the game display area is changed.

  (5) The present invention includes the digital TV tuner according to (1) to (4), wherein the external information display area is capable of broadcasting a digital broadcast from a TV station, and the display control means is a program being broadcast. According to the genre, the content of the special effect is varied.

  According to the present invention, in accordance with the game situation, an enlarged display of the display related to the progress of the game including the change display and stop display of a plurality of decorative symbols serving as identification information is displayed. Since the predetermined special effect display is performed, the player can grasp the progress of the game and enjoy the special effect according to the change of the game situation even when viewing the display of the external information.

  The gaming machine according to the present embodiment has the same display area for the effect display related to the progress of the game including the variable display and stop display of the plurality of decorative symbols serving as the identification information, and the external information display not related to the progress of the game. Display means that can be performed within, display control means for selectively enlarging and displaying any one of the game display area in which the effect display is performed and the external information display area in which the external information display is performed; The display control means expands the game display area in accordance with a change in the game situation, and performs a predetermined special effect display in the game display area.

The gaming machine is provided with display means such as a liquid crystal display device, and can be, for example, a pachinko gaming machine or a pachislot gaming machine.
Such a game machine uses a game medium (for example, a game ball (a so-called “pachinko ball” for a pachinko game machine) or a coin for a pachislot game machine), and a predetermined condition is satisfied. A lottery process for determining whether or not to shift to the special game is performed, and when the lottery is won, the decorative symbol becomes a specific stop display mode, and the game shifts to a special game that can acquire more game media.

In addition, a decorative symbol, which is one piece of identification information for suggesting a lottery result to the player, is displayed in a variable manner and stopped on the display means. As the decorative symbol, for example, a symbol image appropriately designed with numbers from “0” to “9” can be used.
While the decorative symbols are displayed in a variable manner, the display means displays animations such as background images and character images, etc., and the game is excited. In the present embodiment, display of such decorative symbols and effect symbols is effect display.

  In the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, an effect display related to the game is displayed on the display means, and external information display not related to the progress of the game is performed. Here, the external information may be a television broadcast, for example, and a television screen may be displayed in the external information area. Therefore, the gaming machine has a configuration including a TV tuner.

  In such a configuration, in the present embodiment, a display control unit that expands the game display area where the effect display is performed according to a change in the game situation and performs a predetermined special effect display in the game display area. There is a feature in the prepared point.

  By providing such display control means, the player can grasp the progress of the game while enjoying the television broadcast, and the game display area is expanded in accordance with the change of the game situation. Since a predetermined special effect display is performed, it is possible to enjoy a special effect different from the normal effect display.

  The special effect display is, for example, a character image or a background image that changes to a character or background that is normally displayed, or the theme changes if the effect is made according to a predetermined theme. In addition, it may be anything that is displayed in a different form from the normal effect display, such as a live-action still image or moving image that cannot be seen in the normal effect display.

  In addition, the display control means is provided in the gaming machine, and can be assigned to a control circuit that controls the display means such as the liquid crystal display device, and includes a CPU, a memory, a VDP (image data processor), and the like. And it is sufficient.

  In addition, such display control means can also perform control so that a special effect display is performed when a game medium is newly rented from the game medium lending means for renting a game medium used for a game for a fee.

  In other words, in order to advance the game with the gaming machine, the gaming medium is necessary, but the gaming medium is usually charged from a gaming medium lending means (so-called “sand” device) installed beside the gaming machine. It is lent out at. In some cases, cash, in other cases, prepaid cards are used. In any case, the display control means is electrically connected to the game medium lending means, and a special effect display is performed when the lending of a new game hall is detected.

  In general, it is not necessary to borrow new game media when the game proceeds advantageously. Therefore, if the game is progressing in a disadvantageous state, it is considered that a new rental of the game medium occurs. In this way, for a player who is in an unfavorable state of the game, when a new rental of the game medium occurs during the game, a special effect display different from normal is displayed to provide a new enjoyment of the game It is possible to alleviate irritation to adverse situations.

  Further, when either the game display area or the external information display area is enlarged, the enlarged display state can be fixed by a player's operation, and the display control means is configured such that the game display area is a game. The content of the special effect displayed can be different between the case where the enlarged display is performed according to the change of the situation and the case where the enlarged display state is fixed by the player's operation.

  That is, a predetermined operation means such as a switch or a button is provided in the gaming machine, and any one of the enlarged display areas can be fixed in an enlarged state by being operated by the player. The contents of the special effects differ between when the game machine is enlarged under the control of the gaming machine and when the game display area is fixed in an enlarged state by the operation of the operation means according to the player's intention. .

  Since the player can find a new interest in the gaming machine that the contents of the special performance can be changed by his / her own operation, the gaming interest is improved.

  By the way, in the gaming machine described above, the change in the game situation means that one of a plurality of decorative symbols is in a changing state, and the decorative symbol in the change is stopped and displayed in the same design as the other decorative symbols that are stopped and displayed. In this case, the game is shifted to a special game advantageous to the player (in the case of a so-called “reach” state), and the display control means responds to the reliability indicating the high degree of probability of shifting to the special game. Thus, the size of the game display area can be changed.

  That is, in the gaming machine, before the decoration symbol stops, a lottery is performed as to whether or not to shift to the special game, and the lottery result has already been determined. The display control means determines the variation mode and the stop display mode of the decorative symbol based on the lottery result. The decision is also made by a predetermined lottery. Therefore, for example, if the lottery result is a win, if the probability of displaying the game display area in the maximum expanded state at the time of reach is significantly increased, from the player side, if the game display area is expanded to the maximum It will appear as if it shifts from the reach state to the special game (high reliability). On the other hand, if the lottery result is out of order, the probability of displaying the game display area in a state where the enlargement rate is not large even at the time of reach can be remarkably increased. By doing so, from the player side, if the area of the game display area is small, it will appear that there is almost no transition to the special game (low reliability).

  In this way, by changing the size of the game display area at the time of reach, the player is attracted to the game so that the expectation for the special game is increased or discouraged. In addition, although the probability is low, even if it is displayed at maximum magnification, it will shift to special games, or it will shift to special games even though the expansion rate is low, so the game interest will also increase .

  Although the above-described external information display area allows television broadcasts to be enjoyed, it is particularly preferable for the external information display area to be able to broadcast digital broadcasts from television stations as a gaming machine equipped with a digital TV tuner. The display control means can control the contents of the special effects to be different according to the genre of the program being broadcast.

In the case of digital broadcasting, since a code indicating the broadcast content (genre) can be received, the display control means may select and display an image corresponding to the code.
In this way, a special effect display related to the TV program being watched is made, so it becomes a new and unprecedented effect, increasing the added value of the gaming machine, and adding a new appeal of the gaming machine. Can be created.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following, the gaming machine is a pachinko gaming machine.

[Composition of gaming machine]
An overview of the gaming machine will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the overview, FIG. 4 is a front view thereof, and FIG. 3 is an enlarged explanatory view of an electrical decoration unit.

  As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 2 and FIG. 4, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a main body frame 12 having an opening 12a formed on the front surface, and various components disposed inside the opening 12a in the main body frame 12. The door 11 is pivotally attached to the front of the main body frame 12 so as to be openable and closable. This door 11 is for closing the opening 12a from the front, and as shown in FIG. 1, a game is normally performed in the closed state. Further, an upper plate 20, a lower plate 22, a firing handle 26, and the like are disposed on the front surface of the main body frame 12.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a liquid crystal display device 32 as a display means for displaying an image, a spacer 31, a game board 14, and the like are disposed inside the opening 12 a of the main body frame 12. In addition, description is abbreviate | omitted in order to make an understanding easy about various components (not shown) other than the game board 14, the spacer 31, and the liquid crystal display device 32. FIG.

  The gaming board 14 is entirely formed of a plate-shaped resin (a member having a light transmitting property) having a light transmitting property. Examples of the translucent member include various materials such as acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, and methacrylic resin. In addition, the game board 14 has a game area 15 on the front side thereof in which the launched game ball can roll. The game area 15 is an area surrounded by the guide rail 30 and allowing the game ball to roll. In addition, a plurality of obstacle nails 13 are driven into the game area 15 of the game board 14.

  A liquid crystal display device 32, which is an example of display means for displaying an effect image related to a game, is provided behind the game board 14 with a spacer 31 interposed therebetween. In other words, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind the translucent member of the game board 14. The liquid crystal display device 32 has a display area 32a that enables display of an image relating to a game. The display area 32a is disposed so as to overlap the whole or a part of the game board 14 from the back side with the spacer 31 interposed therebetween. Specifically, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind the game board 14 so that the display area 32 a overlaps all or part of the game area 15 and all or part of the game area outer area 16. .

In the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, various images such as an effect image for effect and an ornamental image to be described later are effect-displayed. In the present embodiment, a television image can also be displayed. ing.
That is, in the display area 32a, a game display area where an effect display is performed and an external information display area where a TV video display is displayed as external information display are defined.
As described above, according to the present embodiment, the player can view the TV even while playing a game, so that even when there is a program that he / she wants to watch, he / she can safely go to the amusement hall and enjoy both the game and the program. Can do. Note that, in the present embodiment, in particular, an image of a digital television by terrestrial can be displayed, and a clear and beautiful image can be enjoyed as compared with the display by a conventional analog broadcast.

  Further, in the present embodiment, display means such as the liquid crystal display device 32 is provided behind the light-transmitting area on the game board 14, so that, for example, game members such as an obstacle nail planting area, an accessory, and a decorative member are provided. It is possible to increase the area and further increase the flexibility of layout.

  The spacer 31 is disposed on the rear side (back side) of the game board 14 and on the front side (front side) of the liquid crystal display device 32. That is, the spacer 31 is sandwiched between the game board 14 and the liquid crystal display device 32. The spacer 31 is made of a light-transmitting material, and has a large through hole 31a at the center. An electrical decoration unit 53 is provided in the through hole 31a.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the electrical decoration unit 53 houses a special symbol display device 33 composed of a 7-segment LED 41 in a display device case 37 provided substantially at the center thereof. The 7-segment LED 41 is repeatedly turned on and off when a predetermined special symbol variation display start condition is satisfied. By turning on / off the 7-segment LED 41, 10 numeric symbols from “0” to “9” are variably displayed as special symbols.

  The gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment is roughly divided into a general gaming state (a state in which a game ball is consumed while performing a lottery lottery, a so-called disadvantageous state for a player) and a jackpot gaming state (for a player in a short time). The game is divided into so-called special game states that are advantageous to the player, and can be expected to acquire a large amount of game balls. The general game state is divided into a normal mode, a probability change mode, or a time reduction mode according to a change in the game state of the pachinko gaming machine 10 as will be described in detail later. Furthermore, in the jackpot gaming state, the 15R probability variable jackpot gaming state, the 2R probability variation jackpot gaming state, or the specific number symbol displayed in the special symbol display 33 in a variable stop display in the special symbol control process described later. Three types of jackpot gaming states, 15R normal jackpot gaming state, are determined. And after each jackpot game state is complete | finished, the said general game state also transfers to the general game state of a state different from probability change mode or time-shortening mode.

That is, when a specific numeric symbol (for example, a numeric symbol “7”) is stopped and displayed as the special symbol, a round game advantageous to the player from the general gaming state is continuously performed up to 15 times. Transition to a promising jackpot gaming state. In addition, when a specific numeric symbol (for example, a numeric symbol of “3”) is stopped and displayed, the game state is changed from a general gaming state to a 2R probability variable big hit gaming state in which a round game advantageous to the player is continuously performed twice. Transition. Then, after the jackpot gaming state ends, the mode shifts to a probability change mode, which is a general gaming state in which the probability of shifting to the jackpot gaming state is higher than usual. When a specific numeric symbol (for example, a numeric symbol “5”) is stopped and displayed, a transition from a general gaming state to a 15R normal jackpot gaming state in which a round game advantageous to the player is continued up to 15 times is performed. . Then, after the jackpot gaming state is ended, the game state is shifted to the general gaming state under the time saving mode.
Here, the short-time mode is a reduction in the time required for the special symbol to start changing and the time when the special symbol is stopped, and the time required to change the normal symbol in the normal symbol game, which will be described later, to be shorter than the normal game mode. Similarly, it is a mode in which the opening time of the blade member (ordinary electric accessory) 23 attached to the starting port 25, which will be described later, is longer than the normal mode, and the number of lottery lottery per unit time is remarkably increased, which is extremely advantageous for the player. Mode. In this embodiment, when the number of times of change of the special symbol (for example, 100 times) is digested, the time-saving mode is the normal game state under the normal game mode (normal mode) (the most basic general game in the pachinko gaming machine 10). State). In addition, the probability variation mode is a mode in which the winning probability is higher than the normal game mode in the jackpot lottery. Specifically, the winning probability is determined by the jackpot lottery table shown in FIG. And the jackpot game which transfers to the general game state by this probability change mode after the jackpot game state ends is called “probability jackpot”.

  On the other hand, as a special symbol, when a numerical symbol other than a specific numeric symbol (for example, a numerical symbol other than “3”, “5”, or “7”) is stopped and displayed, the general gaming state basically shifts. do not do. However, the details will be described in the special symbol control process described later. When the general gaming state is the short-time mode, the general gaming state is determined when the number of variations of the special symbol has reached a predetermined variation number (for example, 100 times). Is switched from the short-time mode to the normal mode. As described above, a game in which a special symbol is variably displayed and then stopped and the game state is shifted or maintained depending on the result is called a “special symbol game”.

  On both the left and right sides of the display case 37, special symbol holding lamps 34a to 34d are provided. The special symbol hold lamps 34a to 34d display the number of executions of the special symbol variation display held by turning on or off (so-called “number of special symbols on hold ball”).

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

  Under the display case 37, normal symbol holding lamps 50a to 50d are provided. As will be described later, the normal symbol holding lamps 50a to 50d display the number of executions of the fluctuation display of the normal symbol held by turning on or off (so-called “the number of holding balls of the normal symbol”).

  The description of the overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be continued. As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, decorative lamps 133a and 133b as light emitting display means are arranged outside the light-transmitting area of the game board 14, and have a predetermined light emission mode according to the game state. Display.

  Further, a protective plate 19 having translucency is disposed on the door 11 of the pachinko gaming machine 10. The protection plate 19 is disposed so as to face the front surface of the game board 14 with the door 11 closed.

  The firing handle 26 is provided so as to be rotatable with respect to the main body frame 12. A firing solenoid (not shown) as a driving device is provided on the back side of the firing handle 26. Further, a touch sensor (not shown) is provided on the peripheral edge of the firing handle 26. When the touch sensor is touched by the player, it is detected that the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player. When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and is rotated in the clockwise direction, power is supplied to the firing solenoid according to the rotational angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 is played. It is fired sequentially on the board 14 and the game proceeds. In the present embodiment, the firing device 130 (see FIG. 5) is configured by the firing handle 26, the firing solenoid, and the touch sensor.

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

For example, during the variable display of the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display device 33, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, a decorative symbol (even identification information for production) is formed of a single symbol row in a single symbol row. Yes, for example, numbers from “0” to “9”) are variably displayed. In addition, the special symbol that has been variably displayed on the special symbol display 33 is stopped and displayed, and the decorative symbol for effect is also stopped and displayed on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32.
In addition, when a special number symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display 33, an effect image that allows the player to grasp that it is a big hit is displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32.

  Specifically, when a specific numeric symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display 33, a combination of effect decorative symbols displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 is a specific display. A mode (for example, a mode in which all of “1” to “9” are stopped and displayed in a state where all of them are aligned).

  As a combination of decorative symbols for performance, when a specific “odd” number symbols are all stopped and displayed (for example, “111” to “999” number symbols), the game is played from the general gaming state. The game proceeds to a 15R probable big hit game state in which a round game advantageous to the user is continuously performed up to 15 times. In this case, the specific symbol displayed on the special symbol display 33 is “7”. In addition, when a specific numeric symbol is stopped and displayed with a serial number (for example, a numeric symbol of “1”, “2”, “3”), the round game advantageous to the player is continued at most twice from the general gaming state. The 2R probability variation jackpot gaming state is performed. In this case, the specific symbol displayed on the special symbol display 33 is “3”. Furthermore, when a specific “even” number symbols are all displayed in a stopped state (for example, “222” to “888” number symbols), the round game that is advantageous to the player from the general gaming state is maximized. Transition to the 15R normal jackpot gaming state, which is continuously performed 15 times. In this case, the specific symbol displayed on the special symbol display 33 is “5”. As described above, the combination of the decorative symbols corresponding to the specific symbols stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 33 is stopped and displayed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32.

As described above, when the combination of the decorative patterns for effects displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 is in a specific display mode, for example, “big hit!” Is displayed on a predetermined background image. A character image 24 (see FIGS. 15 to 16) in which the user is pleased is displayed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32.
In the present embodiment, such background image, character image 24, decorative pattern 170, and the like are referred to as effect images, and displaying the effect images on the liquid crystal display device 32 is referred to as effect display.

  As described above, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment, in the general gaming state, the jackpot lottery for determining whether or not to shift to the jackpot gaming state and the special symbol game are performed, and the special game is performed based on the lottery result. A combination of decorative symbols corresponding to a specific symbol that is stopped and displayed on the symbol display 33 is stopped and displayed on the display region 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, and an effect image associated with the lottery result is also displayed on the display region 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. Will be displayed. And if it wins a lottery result, it will transfer to the jackpot game state mentioned above.

  In the game according to the present invention, when a game ball enters the start opening 25, a lottery is performed as to whether or not to shift to a game advantageous to the player, and the special symbol display 33 displays the special symbol. This is a game in which a variable display is performed, and a decorative display variable display as an effect on the liquid crystal display device 32 and an accompanying effect display are performed.

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

  As shown in FIG. 4, the game board 14 is provided with two guide rails 30 (30 a and 30 b), obstacles 55 and 57, a passage gate 54, a start opening 25, and a special winning opening 39. In addition, in the upper part of the game board 14, the electrical decoration units 53 (see FIG. 3) such as the special symbol display 33 and the normal symbol display 35 are visible.

  An obstacle 55 is provided in the upper part of the game board 14, and an obstacle 57 is provided in the approximate center of the game board 14. A starting port 25 is provided below the obstacle 57. The winning of a game ball at the start opening 25 triggers a special symbol game and a jackpot lottery.

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

  When a game ball is won at the start opening 25, the special symbol display by the special symbol display 33 is started. Further, when the game ball wins the start opening 25 during the special symbol variation display, the special symbol variation based on the game ball winning at the start opening 25 is stopped until the special symbol being displayed is stopped. Display execution (start) is put on hold. Thereafter, after the special symbol that has been variably displayed is stopped and displayed, the variable symbol of the reserved special symbol is displayed. That is, the special symbol hold lamps 34a to 34d (see FIG. 3) provided in the lighting unit 53 are lit in order from the left in accordance with the number of executions of the variable display of the reserved special symbols. When the change display of the symbol is temporarily stopped and the next change display of the special symbol that has been put on hold is started, the special symbol hold lamp corresponding thereto is turned off. An upper limit is set for the number of times the execution of the special symbol variable display is suspended. For example, the special symbol variable display is suspended up to four times (number).

  Also, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, when a game ball wins the start opening 25 described above, the variation display of the decorative design for production starts in accordance with the start of the variation display of the special symbol. Is done. Further, when the game ball wins the start opening 25 during the variation display regarding the special symbol, the effect based on the winning of the game ball at the start opening 25 until the identification information for the effect during the variation display is stopped and displayed. Execution (start) of the variable display of decorative symbols for use is suspended. Thereafter, when the decorative design for effect that has been variably displayed is stopped and displayed, the variable display of the decorative symbol for effect that has been put on hold is started.

  In the present embodiment, the winning of a game ball at the start opening 25 is set as a predetermined special symbol variable display start condition or a predetermined decorative symbol variable display start condition. Alternatively, another embodiment may be used.

  A passing gate 54 is provided on the left side of the approximate center of the game board 14. The passing gate 54 is provided with a passing ball sensor 114 (see FIG. 5) described later. The passing ball sensor 114 detects that the game ball has passed through the passing gate 54. When the passing of the game ball is detected by the passing ball sensor 114, the normal symbol variation display is started on the normal symbol display 35, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the normal symbol variation display is stopped. As described above, this normal symbol is a symbol such as “◯” or “x”.

  When this normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a predetermined symbol, for example, “◯”, the blade members (so-called normal electric accessories) 23 provided on the left and right sides of the start port 25 are changed from the closed state to the open state, It becomes easy for a game ball to enter the start opening 25. Further, when a predetermined time has elapsed after the blade member 23 is opened, the blade member 23 is closed to make it difficult for a game ball to enter the start port 25. As described above, a game in which the normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner and then stopped and the open / closed state of the blade member 23 differs depending on the result is referred to as a “normal symbol game”.

  As with the special symbol variation display, when the game ball passes through the passing gate 54 during the normal symbol variation display, until the normal symbol in the variation display is stopped and displayed, Execution (start) of normal symbol variation display based on the passing of the game ball is suspended. That is, the normal symbol hold lamps 50a to 50d (see FIG. 3) provided in the lighting unit 53 are lit in order from the left in accordance with the number of executions of the variable display of the held normal symbols. Is stopped, the next normal symbol variation display that has been put on hold is started, and the corresponding normal symbol hold lamp is turned off. Note that an upper limit is set for the number of times that the execution of the variable symbol display is suspended. For example, the upper limit is four times (pieces).

  The big prize opening 39 is provided with a shutter 40 that can be opened and closed on the front side (front side). In the shutter 40, a special numerical symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display 33, and the gaming state is shifted to the jackpot gaming state (that is, the 15R probability variation big hit, 2R probability variation big hit and 15R normal big hit state). If it is, it is driven so as to be in an open state where it is easy to accept the game ball. As a result, the special winning opening 39 is in an open state where it is easy to accept a game ball.

  On the other hand, a special winning opening 39 provided on the back side (rear) of the shutter 40 includes a specific area (not shown) having a V / count sensor 102 (see FIG. 5) and a count sensor 104 (see FIG. 5). There are general areas (not shown) having a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls, or the shutter 40 is opened until a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses. Driven. When a condition for winning a predetermined number of game balls in the grand prize opening 39 or elapse of a predetermined time is satisfied in the open state, the shutter 40 is driven so as to be in a closed state in which it is difficult to accept the game balls. . As a result, the special winning opening 39 is in a closed state in which it is difficult to accept a game ball.

  A game from an open state in which the big prize opening 39 is in a state in which it is easy to accept game balls to a closed state in which the big prize opening 39 is in a state in which it is difficult to accept game balls is called a round game. Therefore, the shutter 40 is opened during the round game and is closed between the round games. Since the round game is counted as the number of rounds such as “1” round, “2” round, etc., the first round game may be referred to as the first round and the second round as the second round.

  Subsequently, the shutter 40 driven from the open state to the closed state is driven to the open state again on condition that the game ball received in the big prize opening 39 in the open state has passed through the V / count sensor 102. . In other words, it is possible to continue to the next round game on condition that the game ball received in the special winning opening 39 in the opened state of the shutter 40 has passed the V · count sensor 102. Note that the game from the first round game to the end of the (final) round game that cannot continue to the next round game is referred to as a jackpot gaming state. That is, the jackpot gaming state is a gaming state advantageous for the player.

  In addition, when a game ball wins or passes through the specific area and the general area in the start opening 25, the general winning openings 56a to 56d, and the large winning opening 39, the number set in advance according to the type of each winning opening. The game balls are paid out to the upper plate 20 or the lower plate 22.

  Here, in the present embodiment, as an example of an accessory, an accessory of the big prize opening 39 is described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and any number of two or more combinations on the game board is possible. Things may be provided.

  In the present embodiment, during the execution of the jackpot gaming state, the number of rounds from the first round number to the last round game when the round game is continued (the maximum number of continuous rounds) is 15 rounds or 2 rounds. It is. Note that the maximum number of consecutive rounds during execution of the jackpot gaming state is not limited. For example, the maximum continuous round number is selected from “1” to “15” rounds by lottery by a round number lottery means (main control circuit 60 including a main CPU 66 described later (see FIG. 5)). Any number of rounds may be used.

  In the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 32 including a liquid crystal display panel is used as a portion for displaying an image. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be used. For example, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) is used. It may be composed of a cathode ray tube, a dot LED, a segment LED, an EL (Electronic Luminescent), plasma, or the like. In the present embodiment, the special symbol display 33 and the normal symbol display 35 are provided separately from the liquid crystal display device 32. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the liquid crystal display device 32 is provided with the special symbol and the normal symbol. You may comprise so that a fluctuation | variation display may be carried out. Further, the liquid crystal display device 32 is adopted as the fluctuation display means, but the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be adopted. For example, a drum, a belt, a leaf, or the like may be adopted as the fluctuation display means.

  As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment allows the liquid crystal display device 32 to display effects in the game display area and to display television images in the external information display area. For this purpose, a TV tuner 160, which will be described later, is provided and, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, to display a television image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 at a substantially central position below the liquid crystal display device 32. The TV operation panel 27 is provided.

  The television operation panel 27 according to the present embodiment includes an on / off switch 161 that displays or hides a television image in the external information display region on the liquid crystal display device 32 in order from the left side, and an external information display region (television image region). And a cross button 162 for enlarging and reducing the game display area (area for displaying the effect image), a display selection button 163 for selecting a television channel, and a non-display button 164 for hiding the display of the selection screen and the like. ing.

  Further, an earphone jack 165 is disposed on the left hand of the lower plate 22 (when viewed from the front). Thereby, the player can listen to the sound of the television image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 with the earphone 166. In the figure, reference numeral 168 denotes an audio volume dial, which is provided adjacent to the earphone jack 165.

  By the way, when the game display area and the external information display area on the liquid crystal display device 32 are displayed at the same time, either one of them is enlarged and displayed, and in this embodiment, the cross button A display area fixing button 162a is provided in the center of 162, and when the display area fixing button 162a is pressed, a display area (either a game display area or an external information display area) currently being displayed is displayed. It can be fixed in the state.

  Therefore, for example, when a favorite program is displayed in the external information display area and is displayed in an enlarged manner, the player fixes the enlarged display state and advances the game while watching the program. Can do. Since the game display area is displayed even though the display area is small, the player can naturally keep track of the progress of the game.

[Electric configuration of gaming machine]
A control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment.

  The control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment is mainly composed of a main control circuit 60 as game control means and a sub-control circuit 200 as effect control means. The main control circuit 60 controls the game, and the sub-control circuit 200 controls the production according to the progress of the game (for example, image display control, sound output control, decoration lamp control, etc.). It is.

  The sub-control circuit 200 mainly performs control related to effects, and in particular, controls the overall display on the liquid crystal display device 32. In particular, in the present embodiment, it also functions as a display control means for performing control for enlarging or reducing the external information display area, which is a TV video area displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32, and the game display area for effect display. ing. That is, the sub-control circuit 200 performs control to enlarge and display one of the external information display area and the game display area for effect display.

  Further, the sub control circuit 200 performs control to enlarge and display the game effect display area when the game situation changes, for example, when the information in the reach state is obtained. Here, the reach state refers to a state in which a transition to a special game is made when the decorative symbol in one change is stopped and displayed in the same design as the other decorative symbols that are stopped and displayed.

  First, the main control circuit 60 will be described. As shown in FIG. 5, the main control circuit 60 includes a main CPU 66, a main ROM (read only memory) 68, and a main RAM (read / write memory) 70 as control means. The main control circuit 60 controls the progress of the game.

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

  In the main ROM 68, a program for controlling the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the main CPU 66 is stored. In addition, a jackpot lottery table (see FIG. 6) referred to when a jackpot determination is made by random number lottery. Etc. are stored.

  The main RAM 70 has a function of storing various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the main CPU 66.

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

  Also, various devices are connected to the main control circuit 60. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the V / count sensor 102, the count sensor 104, the general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, 112, and the passage A ball sensor 114, a start winning ball sensor 116, a normal electric accessory solenoid 118, a big prize opening solenoid 120, a seesaw solenoid 122, and a backup clear switch 124 are connected.

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

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

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

  The passing ball sensor 114 is provided in the passing gate 54. The passing ball sensor 114 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game ball passes through the passing gate 54.

  A start winning ball sensor 116 which is a game ball detecting means is provided at the start port 25. The start winning ball sensor 116 detects that a game ball has won the start opening 25 and supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60.

  The ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118 is connected to the blade member 23 via a link member (not shown), and makes the blade member 23 open or closed in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66. .

  The big prize opening solenoid 120 is connected to the shutter 40 shown in FIG. 4, and drives the shutter 40 in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66 to make the big prize opening 39 open or closed.

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

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

  The main control circuit 60 is connected to a payout / launch control circuit 126. Connected to the payout / firing control circuit 126 are a payout device 128 for paying out game balls, a launch device 130 for firing game balls, and a card unit 150 for reading the remaining amount of the prepaid card.

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

  In addition, the launching device 130 includes a device for launching a game ball such as the launching solenoid and the touch sensor described above. When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and is rotated in the clockwise direction, electric power is supplied to the firing solenoid according to the rotational angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 is fired. The game board 14 is sequentially fired by the solenoid.

  Further, a lamp control circuit 76 is connected to the main control circuit 60, and the lamp control circuit 76, in accordance with an instruction from the main CPU 66, special symbol holding lamps 34a to 34d, normal symbol holding lamps 50a to 50d, special symbols. The symbol display 33 (7 segment LED 41), the normal symbol display 35 (display lamp), and the like are controlled.

  On the other hand, the sub-control circuit 200 is connected to the serial communication IC 72. The sub-control circuit 200 performs display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, control related to sound generated from the speaker 46, control of the decoration lamps 133a and 133b, and the like according to various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60.

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

  The sub control circuit 200 is generated from a variable display control means, a sub CPU 206 as sound generation control means, a program ROM 208 as storage means, a work RAM 210, a display control circuit 250 for performing display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, and a speaker 46. And a sound control circuit 230 that controls the sound generated from the earphone 166 and a lamp control circuit 240 that controls the lamps 133a and 133b such as decorative lamps. The sub-control circuit 200 executes an effect according to the progress of the game in accordance with a command from the main control circuit 60.

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

  The program ROM 208 stores a plurality of types of effect image data used for image display of the liquid crystal display device 32 executed in association with the special symbol variation display of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the sub CPU 206, and round games during the jackpot game. A plurality of types of effect image data that are executed in association with each other are stored. In addition, various tables such as a reach time table that defines a display period of reach effects are also stored.

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

  The display control circuit 250 is executed in association with a plurality of types of effect patterns that are supplied from the sub CPU 206 and accompanied by the progress of effect display that is executed in relation to the variable display of special symbols, and in the round game during the jackpot game. Control is performed to cause the liquid crystal display device 32 to display images of effect image data such as a plurality of types of effect patterns. Further, in the present embodiment, the display control circuit 250 partitions the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 into a game display area for effect display related to the game and an external information display area for displaying TV video. At the same time, it is possible to control to enlarge or reduce any one of the divided areas.

  The sound control circuit 230 generates sound from the speaker 46 in response to a sound generation command supplied from the sub CPU 206.

  The lamp control circuit 240 performs light emission control of the decorative lamps 133a and 133b according to a program stored in the program ROM 208 supplied from the sub CPU 206.

  In the present embodiment, in the control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10, the main control circuit 60 as the game control means and the sub control circuit 200 as the effect control means are configured separately, but the main control circuit 60 And the sub-control circuit 200 may be configured on the same substrate.

  In this embodiment, the main control circuit 60 uses the main ROM 68 and the sub control circuit 200 uses the program ROM 208 as storage means for storing programs, tables, and the like. However, the present invention is not limited to this. As long as it is a storage medium readable by a computer equipped with a computer, a program, a table, and the like are recorded on a storage medium such as a hard disk device, a CD-ROM and a DVD-ROM, and a ROM cartridge. May be. Further, these programs may not be recorded in advance, but may be downloaded after the power is turned on and recorded in the main RAM 70 in the main control circuit 60 and the work RAM 210 in the sub control circuit 200. . In this embodiment, the main RAM 70 is used as the temporary storage area of the main CPU 66 and the work RAM 210 is used as the temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any readable / writable storage medium may be used.

  Furthermore, in the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention, a television tuner 160 for digital television is connected to the sub control circuit 200. The TV tuner 160 is connected to the antenna 167, extracts a signal tuned to the frequency of the channel selected by the user from the terrestrial digital signal supplied from the TV station, and converts it into a baseband signal. To do. Then, the TV tuner 160 acquires video data, audio data, and program information from this baseband signal, and outputs them to the liquid crystal display device 32 via the display control circuit 250. Note that the TV tuner 160 may be a one-segment TV tuner that can keep power consumption low.

  The sub-control circuit 200 also includes an on / off switch 161, an external information display area (television video area) and a cross button 162 for enlarging and reducing the game display area, a display selection button 163 for selecting a TV channel, and a selection screen. A television operation panel 27 having a non-display button 164 for hiding display of (external information display area or game display area) is connected. In response to an input from each switch of the television operation panel 27, the sub CPU 206 performs control to change the display form on the liquid crystal display device 32 via the display control circuit 250.

[Game machine operation]
In the present embodiment, the game state is roughly divided into a general game state (a game ball is consumed while performing a lottery lottery, a so-called disadvantageous state for the player) and a jackpot game state (a large number of game balls for a player in a short time). It is divided into so-called advantageous states for players. Further, even in the general game state, three game states are provided: a normal mode, a probability change mode, and a time reduction mode.
Then, an effect display corresponding to the game state is displayed in the game display area of the liquid crystal display device 32, and the player can advance the pachinko game while enjoying the effect display. The following is executed by the pachinko gaming machine 10. The processing to be performed is shown in FIGS.

[Main processing]
First, as shown in FIG. 7, initial setting processing such as RAM access permission, backup restoration processing, and work area initialization is executed (step S11). Then, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 9, a special symbol control process related to the progress of the special symbol game, the special symbol displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 and the special symbol display 33, and the decorative symbol is executed (step S12). . Then, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 11, the normal symbol control process relating to the progress of the normal symbol game and the normal symbol displayed on the normal symbol display 35 is executed (step S13). Thus, in the main process, after the initial setting process in step S11 is completed, the processes in step S12 and step S13 are repeatedly executed.

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

  First, as shown in FIG. 8, the main CPU 66 executes a random number update process for updating each lottery value such as a jackpot lottery random value (step S21). Then, the main CPU 66 executes an input detection process for detecting a winning of a game ball to the start opening 25 or the like (step S22). In this processing, the main CPU 66 stores in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 data for paying out the game balls (winning the game balls) on the condition that the game balls have won the various winning ports. A waiting time timer for synchronizing the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200, a big prize opening timer for measuring the opening time of the big prize opening 39 that is opened when a big hit occurs, and the like. The timer update process is executed (step S23). Then, an output process is executed in order to supply a signal for drive control based on various variables to a solenoid, a motor or the like (step S24). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S25.

  In step S25, command output processing is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 supplies various commands to the sub control circuit 200. Specifically, these various commands include a demo display command, a derived symbol designation command indicating the type of special symbol that is derived and displayed, and the like. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S26.

  In step S26, the main CPU 66 executes a payout process such as transmitting a prize ball control command for causing the payout device 128 to perform a prize ball to the payout / firing control circuit 126. Specifically, the main CPU 66 supplies to the payout / launch control circuit 126 a prize ball control command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls as a result of the game balls winning in various winning holes. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished, the address is returned to the address before the occurrence of the interrupt, and the main process is executed.

[Special symbol control processing]
The special symbol control process executed in step S12 in FIG. 7 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in the process of step S31, the main CPU 66 loads a special symbol control flag. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the special symbol control flag and moves the process to step S32.

  In step S32, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the special symbol control flag is (00). If the special symbol control flag is not (00), the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S34. If the special symbol control flag is (00), the process proceeds to step S33 to perform a special symbol storage check process. As will be described in detail later, in this special symbol memory check process, the number of reserved special symbols is checked, and if there is a reserved number, a “big hit” lottery, special symbol variation start, special symbol variation timer is set, etc. Then, (01) which is the processing request for the next step is set in the special symbol control flag, and the processing is terminated.

  In step S34, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the special symbol control flag is (01). If the special symbol control flag is not (01), the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S40. When the special symbol control flag is (01), special symbol variation time monitoring processing is performed. That is, in step S35, it is determined whether or not the special symbol variation timer is up (that is, “0”). If the time is not up, the process is terminated. When the time is up, the main CPU 66 performs a special symbol stop process in step S36 and updates the special symbol holding number stored in the main RAM 70 so as to decrease by "1". Further, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the general gaming state is the time reduction mode, and if it is the time reduction mode, the main CPU 66 updates the memory so as to decrease the time reduction stored in the main RAM 70 by “1”. When it becomes 0 "(that is, the end of the time-saving mode), the general gaming state is set to the normal mode, and the time-saving mode is ended.

  Next, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the special symbol is a big hit in step S37. If not, the main CPU 66 clears the special symbol control flag in step S39 (that is, the value (00) for requesting the special symbol storage check process). Set) to finish the process. If the special symbol is a big hit, a special winning opening release waiting process in step S38 is performed. In the special winning opening release waiting process, the main CPU 66 sets a value (02) indicating waiting for the special winning opening to the special symbol control flag, and sets a waiting time (for example, 1 second) in the special winning opening release waiting timer. End the process.

  In step S40, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the special symbol control flag is (02). If the special symbol control flag is not (02), the process proceeds to step S43. When the special symbol control flag is (02), a special winning opening release process is performed. In the special prize opening process, first, the main CPU 66 determines in step S41 whether the special prize opening waiting timer is timed up (that is, “0”). If the time is not up, the process is terminated. If the time is up, a special winning opening opening process is performed in step S42. In this special winning opening opening process, the main CPU 66 first sets the opening of the special winning opening 39 (stores the opening instruction of the special winning opening solenoid 120 by the shutter 40 in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70), and then the big hit Depending on the type, the opening time of the big prize opening 39 is set in the big prize opening timer (for example, 30 seconds if the jackpot is 15R probability variation big hit, or 15R normal jackpot, or 1 second if 2R probability variation big hit). Then, the special symbol control flag is set to a value (03) indicating the special winning opening release monitoring process, and the process ends.

  In step S43, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the special symbol control flag is (03). If the special symbol control flag is not (03), the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S50. When the special symbol control flag is (03), a special winning opening opening monitoring process is performed. In the big prize opening monitoring process, first, the main CPU 66 determines whether the big prize opening timer has timed out (that is, “0”) in step S44, or whether a prescribed number of game balls have won the big prize opening 39. Judge whether or not. Then, when the time of the grand prize opening timer expires, and at the same time, if the prescribed number of game balls have not won the grand prize opening 39, the processing is terminated. Then, when the time of the winning opening opening timer expires or when a prescribed number of game balls in the large winning opening 39 satisfy one of the conditions for winning, the process proceeds to step S45.

  In step S45, the main CPU 66 executes a special winning opening closing process (stores a closing instruction of the special winning opening solenoid 120 by the shutter 40 in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70), and moves the process to step S46.

  In step S46, the main CPU 66 counts the number of times that the special winning opening is opened (the so-called number of rounds), and whether or not the specified number of times (15 times for the 15R normal jackpot or 15R probability variation jackpot, 2 times for the 2R probability variation jackpot) has been reached. In step S49, the special symbol control flag is set to a value (04) for requesting the jackpot end process, and the process ends. On the other hand, if the number of times of opening of the big prize opening has not reached the prescribed number, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the game ball that won the big prize opening 39 has passed a predetermined specific area in step S47. When the game ball that has won the big prize opening 39 does not pass through the predetermined specific area (when the V / count sensor 102 does not detect the passage of the game ball), the special symbol control flag is terminated in step S49. A value (04) for requesting processing is set, and the processing ends. On the other hand, the main CPU 66 moves the process to step S48 when the game ball that has won the special winning opening 39 has passed a predetermined specific area (that is, the V / count sensor 102 has detected the passage of the game ball).

  In step S48, the main CPU 66 performs a special winning opening opening waiting process. In the special winning opening release waiting process, the special symbol control flag is set again with a value (02) for requesting the opening of the special winning opening 39, and the waiting time (for example, 1 second) is set in the special winning opening release waiting timer. Exit.

  In step S50, the main CPU 66 performs jackpot end processing. In the jackpot end processing, when the jackpot symbol is 15R probability variation jackpot or 2R probability variation jackpot, the general gaming state is set to the probability variation mode, and when the jackpot symbol is 15R regular jackpot, the general gaming state is set to the time reduction mode, and further in the time reduction mode. The upper limit (for example, 100 times) of the variation number of the special symbol is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. Finally, the main CPU 66 clears the special symbol control flag (that is, sets a value (00) for requesting the special symbol storage check process), and ends the special symbol control process.

[Special symbol memory check processing]
The special symbol memory check process executed in step S33 in FIG. 9 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in step S61, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the number of special symbol reservations is “0”. If the number of special symbol reservations is “0”, the main CPU 66 moves the process to step S62. If the number of symbols held is not “0” (that is, if there is a special symbol variation), the process proceeds to step S63.

  In step S62, a demonstration display process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores data for supplying a demo display command to the sub-control circuit 200 in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 in order to perform a demo display. As a result, the sub-control circuit 200 can recognize that the customer waiting state (predetermined waiting state) has been reached. When this process ends, the special symbol storage check process ends.

  In step S63, the main CPU 66 sets a value (01) for requesting special symbol variation time management to the special symbol control flag, and moves the process to step S64.

  In step S64, a jackpot lottery process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the general gaming state, and selects one jackpot lottery table from a plurality of jackpot lottery tables (see FIG. 6) having different jackpot values based on the read general gaming state. Then, with reference to the jackpot lottery random value extracted when the game ball wins the starting opening 25 and the selected jackpot lottery table, the jackpot is lottery (15R probability variable jackpot, 2R probability variable jackpot, 15R normal jackpot or “ Decide one of “out of”. Here, as shown in the jackpot lottery table of FIG. 6, in the jackpot lottery table in the normal mode or the short time mode and the jackpot lottery table in the probability variation mode, the jackpot lottery value is 7/400 (15R normal in the normal mode and the short mode). It is set to jackpot, 15R probability variation jackpot and 2R probability variation jackpot all jackpot lottery value), but in probability variation mode 70/400 (15R regular jackpot, 15R probability variation jackpot and 2R probability variation jackpot all jackpot lottery value) Total). That is, by selecting the jackpot lottery table based on different game states (normal mode, probability change mode, time reduction mode) in the general game state, the probability of shifting to the jackpot game state is different. As described above, when the general gaming state is the probability variation mode, the probability of shifting to the jackpot gaming state is improved as compared to the normal mode and the short-time mode, which can be said to be an advantageous state for the player. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S65.

  In step S65, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not it is a big hit. In this process, the main CPU 66 moves the process to step S66 if the lottery result in the jackpot lottery process in step S64 described above is a big win, and moves the process to step S67 if not the big win.

  In step S66, a specific symbol which is a jackpot symbol is determined. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines a specific symbol to be displayed corresponding to the jackpot type determined in step S64. For example, for a 15R probability variable jackpot, the specific symbol is determined as “7”, for a 2R probability variable jackpot, the specific symbol is “3”, or for a 15R normal jackpot, the specific symbol is “5”. As such, a specific symbol is determined corresponding to each jackpot. Then, the determined specific symbol is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. As a result, the special symbol corresponding to the jackpot is derived and displayed on the special symbol display 33. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S68.

  In step S67, a missing symbol determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines a specific symbol (for example, a number other than “7”, “3”, “5”) corresponding to the off symbol and stores it in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. As a result, a special symbol corresponding to the deviation is derived and displayed on the special symbol display 33. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S68.

  In step S68, a gaming state determination process is performed. In this gaming state determination process, when the main CPU 66 determines that the current general gaming state is the probability variation mode or the time saving mode, the main CPU 66 shifts the process to step S70 and assumes that the current general gaming state is the normal mode. If it is determined, in step S69, the special symbol variation time in the normal mode (for example, 10 seconds) is set in the special symbol variation timer and stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. Then, the process proceeds to step S71.

  In step S70, the main CPU 66 sets a special symbol variation time in the probability variation mode or the short time mode (a time shorter than the special symbol variation time in the normal mode, for example, 5 seconds) in the special symbol variation timer. Store in the area. Then, the process proceeds to step S71.

  In step S71, the main CPU 66 stores a request for starting the variable display to the special symbol display 33 (see FIG. 3) in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70, and moves the process to step S72. By this processing, the special symbol display 33 displays the variation of the special symbol in accordance with the variation time set in the special symbol variation timer in the steps S69 and S70, and after the predetermined time has elapsed (the special symbol variation). After the timer has expired), the special symbol “big hit” or “out of place” determined in step S66 and step S67 is stopped and displayed.

  In step S72, the decoration pattern displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 and the effect time determination process are performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the liquid crystal display device is based on the “big hit” or “out of” data stored in step S66 or step S67 and the special symbol variation time stored in step S69 or step S70. The decorative symbols and effect times that are effect-displayed in the 32 display areas 32 a are determined and stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The decorative symbols and effect times stored here are supplied as derived symbol designation commands from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the command output process in step S25 of FIG. Thereby, in the sub control circuit 200, the decorative symbol is derived and displayed on the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, and the variation time of the decorative symbol is also determined. That is, the variation time of the special symbol derived and displayed on the special symbol display device 33 and the variation time of the decorative symbol derived and displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 are synchronized.

[Normal symbol control processing]
The subroutine executed in step S13 in FIG. 7 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the main CPU 66 loads a normal symbol control flag in step S101. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the normal symbol control flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S102.

  In step S102, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the normal symbol control flag is a value (00) indicating a normal symbol storage check request. If the normal symbol control flag is not (00), the process proceeds to step S104. . If the normal symbol control flag is (00), the normal symbol storage check process in step 103 is performed. This normal symbol memory check process will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 12, but the main CPU 66 checks the number of reserved normal symbols, and if there is a number of reserved symbols, the main CPU 66 determines whether the normal symbol is hit, starts changing the normal symbol, The normal symbol variation timer is set, etc., and (01) which is the processing request for the next step is set in the normal symbol control flag, and the processing is terminated.

  In step S104, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the normal symbol control flag is (01). If the normal symbol control flag is not (01), the process proceeds to step S107. If the normal symbol control flag is (01), it is determined in step S105 whether the normal symbol variation timer has timed up (that is, “0”). If the time has not expired, the process ends. . On the other hand, when the normal symbol variation timer expires, the main CPU 66 performs a normal symbol stop process in step S106. In this normal symbol stop process, the main CPU 66 sets a request to stop the fluctuation to the normal symbol display 35 and stores it in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. As a result, the normal symbol display 35 displays the determination result of “success” or “displacement” of the normal symbol determined by the normal symbol storage check process. When this process is completed, the stored number of normal symbols stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 is updated so as to decrease by “1”. Then, (02) is set in the normal symbol control flag and the process is terminated.

  In step S107, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the normal symbol control flag is (02). If the normal symbol control flag is not (02), the process proceeds to step S111. If the normal symbol control flag is (02), the process proceeds to step S108 to determine whether or not the normal symbol is a hit. If the main CPU 66 determines that the normal symbol is a winning symbol, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to the normal electric character releasing process in step S109. On the other hand, when determining that the normal symbol is not a hit, the main CPU 66 sets a value (00) for requesting the normal symbol storage check to the normal symbol control flag and ends the processing in step S110.

  In the ordinary electric accessory release process in step S109, the main CPU 66 performs an opening process of the blade member 23 of the ordinary electric accessory (stores the release of the ordinary electric accessory in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70). Furthermore, the opening time of the blade member 23 of the normal electric accessory (for example, 3 seconds when the game state is the probability change mode or the short time mode, 0.2 seconds when the normal mode is normal) according to the game state of the game table is normal. The electric accessory release timer is set, the normal symbol control flag is set to (03), and the process ends.

  In step S111, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the normal symbol control flag is (03). If the normal symbol control flag is not (03), the process proceeds to step S114. If the normal symbol control flag is (03), the process proceeds to step S112 to determine whether the normal electric accessory release timer has timed up (that is, “0”). Then, when the normal electric accessory release timer has not expired, the process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the normal electric accessory release timer has timed out, in the normal electric accessory closing process of step S113, the blade member 23, which is an ordinary electric accessory, is closed (normally in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70). Memorize the closing of the electric accessory). Then, (04) is set in the normal symbol control flag and the process is terminated.

In step S114, the main CPU 66 clears the normal symbol control flag (that is, sets the value “00” for requesting the normal symbol storage check) and ends the process.
[Normal symbol memory check processing]
The subroutine executed in step S103 in FIG. 11 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in step S121, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the normal symbol holding number is “0”. If it is determined that the normal symbol holding number is “0”, the normal symbol storage check is performed. The process ends. This normal symbol reserve number is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70, and when it is detected that a game ball has passed through the passing gate 54, it increases by "1" with the predetermined number (for example, "4") as an upper limit. When the variable display of the normal symbol in the normal symbol game is completed, “1” is subtracted and the memory is updated. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 determines that the number of retained normal symbols is not “0”, in step S122, the main CPU 66 sets the value “01” of the normal symbol variation timer monitoring request to the normal symbol control flag, and then proceeds to step S123. Move processing.

  In step S123, a normal symbol hit determination process is executed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 determines the normal symbol per-determining random number extracted when the normal symbol starting area is passed (by passing the game ball through the passing gate 54) and the normal symbol per-unit determination stored in the main ROM 68. Refers to the value. Then, as a result of the reference, when the random value for determination per ordinary symbol matches the determination value per ordinary symbol as a result of the reference, the main CPU 66 stores data indicating the winning symbol (for example, “◯” symbol) in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. To remember. On the other hand, as a result of the reference, when the random value for determination per normal symbol does not match the determination value per normal symbol as a result of the reference, the main CPU 66 stores data indicating an off symbol (for example, “×” symbol) in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. To remember. The winning symbol and the off symbol stored in this manner are supplied to the normal symbol display 35 as a derived normal symbol designation command. As a result, the normal symbol display 35 starts normal symbol variation display (for example, “◯” and “x” symbols are alternately blinked). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S124.

  In step S124, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the general gaming state is the probability changing mode or the time saving mode. If the general gaming state is the probability changing mode or the time saving mode, in step S126, the main CPU 66 The normal symbol variation stop time (for example, 5 seconds) shorter than that in the normal mode is set in the normal symbol variation timer, and the processing is terminated. On the other hand, when the gaming state is not the probability variation mode or the time reduction mode (that is, the normal mode), in step S125, the main CPU 66 sets the normal symbol variation stop time (for example, 30 seconds) longer than the probability variation mode or the time reduction mode to the normal symbol variation timer. Set to ending.

  Here, the general gaming state of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment will be described. As described above, any one of the normal mode, the probability variation mode, and the time reduction mode is set as the general gaming state in the pachinko gaming machine 10. Here, as shown in the jackpot lottery table in FIG. 6, when the general gaming state is the probability variation mode, the lottery value is 70/400 (15R normal jackpot, 2R probability variation jackpot, all 15R probability variation jackpot values). If the general gaming state is the normal mode or the short-time mode, the lottery lottery value is 7/400 (15R normal big hit, 2R probability variable big hit, 15R probability variable big hit all numbers) Total)). That is, when the general gaming state is in the probability variation mode, it is possible to expect winning of the jackpot gaming state with a 10 times higher probability than in the normal mode or the short time mode. In other words, the probability variation mode can be said to be an advantageous game mode with a large expected value for the next jackpot for the player.

  Furthermore, in the variation time of the special symbol and the normal symbol, as described above, when the general gaming state is in the probability variation mode or the short time mode, and in the normal mode, the general gaming state is in the probability variation mode or the short time mode, The variation time of special symbols and normal symbols is set short. Furthermore, since the opening time of the blade member 23 attached to the starting port 25 when the normal symbol is hit is set longer than the normal mode when the normal gaming state is the probability variation mode or the time reduction mode, the blade member 23 As a result, the opportunity for a game ball to win the start opening 25 increases. That is, when the general gaming state is the probability variation mode and the short time mode, the number of special symbol lotteries per unit time increases as compared to the normal mode, which is also an advantageous state for the player.

[Sub control circuit main processing]
On the other hand, the sub-control circuit 200 executes the sub-control circuit main process. The sub control circuit main process will be described with reference to FIG. The sub control circuit main process is a process that is started when the power is turned on.

  First, in step S201, the sub CPU 206 executes initial setting processing such as RAM access permission and work area initialization. That is, the sub CPU 206 performs a predetermined initial setting for normally playing the game based on the power being turned on. In the present embodiment, the sub CPU 206 that executes step S201 corresponds to an example of an initial setting unit. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S202.

  In step S202, the sub CPU 206 executes random number update processing. In this process, the sub CPU 206 updates various random number values positioned in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S203.

  In step S203, the sub CPU 206 executes command analysis processing. In this process, the sub CPU 206 analyzes a command sent from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 and executes a process according to the analyzed command. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S204.

  In step S204, the sub CPU 206 executes display control processing. In this process, when the sub CPU 206 receives a derived symbol designation command from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 in the command analysis process, the sub CPU 206 performs image display control such as a decorative symbol according to the derived symbol designation command. This is performed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32.

  Then, the sub CPU 206 executes a sound control process for controlling the sound generated from the speaker 46 (step S205) and a lamp control process for controlling the light emission of the various lamps 133a and 133b (step S206). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S202.

  As described above, in the sub control circuit main process, after the initial setting process in step S201 is completed, the processes from step S202 to step S206 are repeatedly executed.

[Display Mode in Liquid Crystal Display Device 32]
A display mode in the liquid crystal display device 32 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be briefly described with reference to FIGS. 14-16 is explanatory drawing which shows the display mode in the liquid crystal display device 32. FIG.
The display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 includes a game effect display area 18 as a game display area for effect display using a predetermined effect image in the game state, and a TV image display as an external information display area for displaying TV images. The area 17 is partitioned.

The game effect display area 18 is a state in which a decorative symbol 170 (which is also identification information for the effect. For example, a number from “0” to “9”) fluctuates or is stopped in a single symbol row. In addition to the display, the area around the decorative pattern 170 is an area for displaying an animation including a predetermined character image 24 and a background image.
Further, the liquid crystal display device 32 can display a television image in the television image display region 17 together with the game effect display region 18, and when the effect display and the television image display are performed at the same time, either one is selective. Is enlarged.

  Further, the player operates the TV operation panel 27 so that the player can freely select one of the display of the game effect display area 18 and the TV video display area 17 and display the display area. Further, the enlarged display can be fixed in an enlarged state by the player's operation.

  For example, in the general gaming state, a state in which a game ball is simply being fired toward the start opening 25 continues for a long time, so that the player enlarges and displays the TV video display area 17 and views a favorite program. The game can be advanced while. Therefore, the monotony of the game does not matter and fatigue does not occur.

  When the game progresses, for example, when the game progress changes, such as when the decorative pattern 170 changes to the reach state, the sub-control circuit 200 displays the TV video display area 17 accordingly, Instead, the control for displaying the game effect display area 18 in a large size is executed, and the effect display in the game effect display area 18 is executed as a special effect display different from the effect display so far.

  Then, the player is aware that the game progress has changed or not, so the interest of the progress of the game will be transferred from the TV, and the timing to enjoy the real pleasure of pachinko games will not be missed. .

As shown in FIG. 5, the TV video display area 17 and the game effect display area 18 are enlarged or reduced by a display control circuit 250 provided in the sub-control circuit 200.
Specifically, in response to an input signal generated by the player operating the on / off switch 161, first, the TV tuner 160 for digital TV captures a terrestrial digital signal supplied from the TV station via the antenna 167. . From the acquired terrestrial digital signal, a signal that is tuned to the frequency of the channel selected by the user is extracted and converted into a baseband signal. Then, the television tuner 160 acquires video data, audio data, and program information from the baseband signal. Further, the sub-control circuit 200 captures the video data and audio data. Then, the video data captured by the sub control circuit 200 is enlarged or reduced as display data by the display control circuit 250 and displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32. The audio data is output from the earphone 166 via the audio control circuit 230.
Then, when a command signal is received by the player operating the TV operation panel 27 in the middle of the video display in the TV video display area 17, the sub-control circuit 200 responds to the command signal in the TV video display area 17. Controls enlargement and reduction.

Here, when a game is actually performed using the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment, a change in the display mode on the liquid crystal display device 32 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 14 to 16. .
First, a player purchases a prepaid card and inserts it into a card insertion slot 151 (see FIG. 1) of a card unit 150 (game medium lending means) disposed between a plurality of gaming machines. The reading mechanism of the card unit 150 reads the rental information of the game ball (game medium) written on the prepaid card. Then, the card reader supplies a predetermined quantity (for example, 25 pieces / 100 yen) of game balls to the upper plate 20 of the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the rental information.

  Then, the player operates the launch handle 26 to start launching the game ball. At this time, game start information is given to the pachinko gaming machine 10, and the game effect display area 18 is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 of the pachinko gaming machine 10.

  Thereafter, when the player operates the on / off switch 161, the television image display area 17 is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32. At that time, as shown in FIG. 14A, the television image display area 17 is enlarged and a channel selection column 21 is displayed. On the other hand, the game effect display area 18 is reduced to the minimum area, and only the decorative symbols 170 are displayed.

  The player selects a program of a favorite genre from the channel selection column 21. For example, as shown in FIG. 14A, when a baseball program in the sports column is selected, a list of channels broadcasting sports programs at this time is displayed (not shown), and the player presses the cross button 162. Operate to determine the channel. Then, as shown in FIG. 14B, for example, a baseball broadcast video is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32. Further, if necessary, the player can listen to the voice of the baseball broadcast being displayed in the TV image display area 17 by connecting the earphone 166 to the earphone jack 165.

In addition, the display of the television image display area 17 displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 can be freely enlarged or reduced by the player.
That is, the player presses the lower side of the cross button 162 of the television operation panel 27 disposed below the liquid crystal display device 32, so that the television image display area 17 is displayed as shown in FIG. The game effect display area 18 can be enlarged correspondingly.
Then, the area of the television image display area 17 in this state can be maintained in a fixed state by pressing a display area fixing button 162 a provided at the center of the cross button 162. That is, in the present embodiment, it is possible to maintain a relatively enlarged area of the TV image display area 17 and the game effect display area 18 in a fixed state by the player's operation. .

  However, according to the progress of the subsequent game, the television image display area 17 that is enlarged compared to the game effect display area 18 is enlarged in the game effect display area 18 and is different from the effect display so far. An effect display is made.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 15 (a), when the reach state described above, which is likely to shift to a special game, is reached, the information in the reach state is transmitted from the main control circuit 100 to the sub control circuit 200. The Then, the sub control circuit 200 controls the display control circuit 250 to enlarge the game effect display area 18 and display an effect image corresponding to the reach state on the liquid crystal display device 32. On the other hand, the sub control circuit 200 controls the display control circuit 250 to perform a process of reducing the TV image display area 17. Thereby, the player sees the game effect display area 18 displayed larger than the reduced television image display area 17, and concentrates on the game in the reach state.

  In the game effect display area 18 of the liquid crystal display device 32, the reach state can be displayed by, for example, displaying the character image 24. At this time, a special effect display is made in the game effect display area 18 because the game situation has changed to reach a reach state. In this case, since the baseball broadcast is being performed in the television image display area 17, a character image 24 wearing a baseball uniform is displayed in the game effect display area 18.

  For the selection of the character image 24, information selected by the channel in the television image display area 17 is taken into the sub-control circuit 200, and the sub-control circuit 200 stores the baseball stored in the program ROM 208 based on the channel selection information. The sub CPU 206 reads the character image data wearing the uniform, and causes the display control circuit 250 to display the character image 24.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 15 (b), while the reach state continues, the area of the television image display area 17 is further reduced, and an effect display such as animation related to the progress of the game is displayed. The area 18 is further enlarged. Here, the game effect display area 18 is displayed in an area that occupies most of the display area 32a, in which an image of a girl character standing on a yacht floating on the sea is displayed. On the other hand, the television image display area 17 is displayed only on the left side of the center of the display area 32a.

  That is, in the present embodiment, the expansion rate of the game effect display area 18 is associated with the reliability indicating the degree of probability of making a big hit to the player, that is, the degree of probability of shifting to the big hit game. The reliability is changed according to the size of the display area of the game effect display area 18 to give the player a sense of expectation for a big hit.

Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 16 (a), when it becomes a state whether or not it is a big hit, the area of the game effect display area 18 is further expanded, and the reliability to the big win is further increased. Give a big hit feeling. In the game effect display area 18, a special image (here, a dolphin) that is not normally displayed is displayed. This is also an example of the special effect display in the present embodiment.
Then, as shown in FIG. 16 (b), when a big hit is reached, a rainbow is cast on the background of the effect display such as animation, or a dolphin that is a special image jumps, so that the joy that is a big hit to the player Can be given by the effect display. In addition, the player can obtain great satisfaction that the game effect display area 18 is gradually enlarged and the game has actually reached the jackpot game while expectations for the jackpot have expanded.

  As described above, the present invention expands and displays the effect display related to the progress of the game including the variable display and stop display of the plurality of decorative symbols 170 serving as the identification information according to the game situation. As a special special effect display is made, the player can grasp the progress of the game even when watching the display of external information (TV image), and perform a special effect according to the change of the game situation. I can enjoy it.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when any one of the game effect display area 18 and the television image display area 17 is displayed in an enlarged manner, the enlarged display is performed by the player's operation (for example, the operation of the display area fixing button 162a). Although the state can be fixed, at that time, as described above, the sub-control circuit 200 displays the game effect display area 18 in an enlarged manner in accordance with a change in the game situation (for example, a change to the reach state). The contents of the special effects displayed can be different depending on the case where the display is fixed in the enlarged display state by the player's operation.

  For example, in the example shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the sub control circuit 200 changes the content of the effect according to the game situation, and the content of the special effect is displayed in the TV image display area 17. The character image 24 related to the television image is displayed. However, when the game effect display area 18 is fixed in an enlarged state by the player's operation, for example, the type of character, It is also possible to control the backgrounds to be different.

  By performing such control, the player can find a new interest in the pachinko gaming machine 10 that the content of the special effect can be changed by his / her own operation, and the game entertainment is further improved. In addition, it is possible to prevent the player from getting bored with the contents of the decided production due to a change in the production display.

  In the present embodiment, the present invention is applied to a gaming machine itself such as a pachinko gaming machine, but may be applied to other gaming machines such as a pachislot gaming machine.

  As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was described, it has only illustrated the specific example and does not specifically limit this invention. For example, the specific configuration for enlarging or reducing the image display area can be changed as appropriate.

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

The following gaming machines are realized by the embodiment described above.
That is, an effect display related to the progress of the game including a change display and a stop display of a plurality of decorative symbols (170) serving as identification information, and an external information display not related to the progress of the game (for example, shown in FIGS. 14 to 16). Display means (for example, the liquid crystal display device 32), a game display area (for example, the game effect display area 18) in which the effect display is performed, and the external display Display control means (for example, the sub-control circuit 200 and the display control circuit 250) for selectively enlarging and displaying any one of the external information display area (for example, the TV video display area 17) on which information is displayed; The display control means expands the game display area in response to a change in the game situation, and displays a predetermined special effect display (for example, the character shown in FIG. 15) in the game display area. Kuta display image 24) game performing machine (e.g., pachinko machines 10).

  The display control means (for example, the sub control circuit 200 and the display control circuit 250) is a new game medium from the game medium lending means (for example, the card unit 150) that lends a game medium (for example, a game ball) to be used for a game. A game machine that displays special effects when rented to.

  When either one of the game display area (for example, the game effect display area 18) and the external information display area (for example, the TV video display area 17) is displayed in an enlarged manner, the enlarged display state is set by the player's operation. The display control means (for example, the sub-control circuit 200 and the display control circuit 250) can display the game display area in an enlarged manner according to a change in the game situation and an enlarged display by the player's operation. A game machine with different contents of special effects displayed when it is fixed in a state.

  The change of the game situation means that one of a plurality of decorative symbols (170) is in a changing state, and the decorative symbol (170) in the change is stopped and displayed with the same symbol as the other decorative symbols (170) that are displayed in a stopped state. In this case, the display control means (for example, the sub-control circuit 200 and the display control circuit 250) is changed to a special game advantageous to the player (for example, a jackpot game) (for example, the reach state). A gaming machine that changes the size of the game display area in accordance with a degree of reliability indicating a high probability of transition to a special game.

  A digital TV tuner (160) is provided, and the external information display area (for example, the TV video display area 17) is capable of broadcasting a digital broadcast from a TV station, and the display control means (for example, the sub-control circuit 200, the display control circuit) 250) is a gaming machine in which the contents of the special effects differ according to the genre of the program being broadcast (for example, a sports program).

1 is a perspective view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the general view in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view which shows the electrical decoration unit comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view which shows the general view in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the main control circuit and sub control circuit which are comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is various determination tables referred in the pachinko gaming machine of one embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display mode in the liquid crystal display device of the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display mode in the liquid crystal display device of the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display mode in the liquid crystal display device of the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. .

Explanation of symbols

10 Pachinko machines 17 TV image display area (external information display area)
18 Game effect display area (Game display area)
28 TV operation panel 32 Liquid crystal display device (display means)
32a Display area 160 Tuner for digital TV 170 Decoration pattern 200 Sub control circuit 250 Display control circuit

Claims (5)

Display means capable of performing presentation display related to the progress of the game including the change display and stop display of a plurality of decorative symbols serving as identification information and external information display not related to the progress of the game within the same display area ,
Display control means for selectively enlarging and displaying any one of the game display area in which the effect display is performed and the external information display area in which the external information display is performed;
With
The display control means includes
A gaming machine, wherein the game display area is enlarged in accordance with a change in a game situation, and a predetermined special effect display is performed in the game display area. The display control means includes
2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a special effect display is performed when a new game medium is rented from a game medium renting means for renting a game medium to be used for a game. When any one of the game display area and the external information display area is enlarged, the enlarged display state can be fixed by the player's operation,
The display control means includes
The content of the special effect displayed is different between the case where the game display area is enlarged and displayed according to the change of the game situation and the case where the game display area is fixed in the enlarged display state by the player's operation. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2. A change in the game situation is advantageous for a player when one of a plurality of decorative symbols is in a fluctuating state and the decorative symbol being changed is stopped and displayed in the same design as other decorative symbols that are displayed in a stopped state. It ’s when you switch to special games,
The display control means includes
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a size of the game display area is changed in accordance with a reliability indicating a high degree of probability of shifting to the special game. A digital TV tuner is provided, and the external information display area enables digital broadcasting from a TV station,
The display control means includes
The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein contents of the special effect differ according to a genre of a program being broadcast.

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