JP2008212721A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of effectively executing a prediction performance for an establishment of big winning by using a starting storage display unit. <P>SOLUTION: Shielding members 21a and 21b are provided above and below a starting storage display unit 18 provided separately from a special pattern display part 9 and the shielding member 21b is activated so as to shift the starting storage display unit 18 into an unshielded state that a player can see the starting storage display unit 18 and a shielded state that a player cannot see the starting storage display unit 18. When a ready-for-winning state is generated during variable display, the shielding member 21b is activated and the starting storage display unit 18 is shifted from the shielded state to the unshielded state. A big winning is predicted by allowing a display part showing that will be big winning out of the reappearing display parts of the starting storage display unit 18 to be from a prescribed display mode to a special display mode. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine represented by a pachinko gaming machine, a coin gaming machine, a slot machine or the like. Specifically, a variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information, each of which can be identified based on the establishment of a predetermined start condition, and a display result of the variable display device is specified in advance. The present invention relates to a gaming machine that can be controlled to a specific gaming state that is advantageous to the player when the display result is obtained.

  What is conventionally known as this type of gaming machine includes, for example, a variable display device capable of performing variable display when a variable display start condition is satisfied, and the display result of the variable display device There is a gaming machine that can be controlled to a specific gaming state that is advantageous to the player when a predetermined display result is obtained.

In a conventional gaming machine, a display device having a liquid crystal display type variable display unit that displays display symbols such as various numbers, characters, symbols and the like in a variable manner is provided, and the display device includes a movable member. However, there is one that operates a movable member in correspondence with the display mode of the variable display section so as to be able to determine whether or not the big hit is missed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-38005 (page 2-3)

  As described above, some conventional gaming machines include a movable member provided in the display device of the gaming machine, and the movable member operates in accordance with the display mode of the variable display unit, thereby enhancing the interest of the game. It was. However, since this type of conventional gaming machine produces an effect on the variable display device and does not produce an effect using the hold data display unit, the place where the production is performed is not new, and the player There was a drawback that it was difficult to excite the excitement.

  The present invention has been conceived in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can improve the interest by performing effects using the reserved data number display section. .

Specific examples of means for solving the problems and their effects

(1) A variable display device (variable display device 8) capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information (special symbols) each identifiable on the basis of establishment of a predetermined start condition (start prize) A game that can be controlled to a specific game state (big hit state) advantageous to the player when the display result of the variable display device becomes a predetermined specific display result (for example, a doublet such as “333”). Machine (Pachinko machine 1),
Display result determination means (game control microcomputer 53, S56, S57 in FIG. 15) for determining whether or not the display result of the variable display device is to be the specific display result based on the establishment of the variable display start condition; ,
After the variable display of the plurality of types of identification information is started in the variable display device, variable display control means (display control microcomputer 800, FIG. 5) for performing variable display control for deriving and displaying the display result according to the display result determining means. 29, 30 and 31),
When the variable display cannot be started immediately even if the start condition is satisfied, a hold storage means (RAM 55, FIG. 5) stores the establishment of the start condition as hold data until the variable display can be started based on the establishment of the variable display start condition. 14 S43),
A hold data number display section for informing the number of hold data by performing hold display in a predetermined display mode ("green light" in FIG. 8) corresponding to the number of hold data stored in the hold storage means. (Starting memory display 18);
Shielding members (shielding member 21a in the shape of a dinosaur face, shielding member 21b in the shape of the lower jaw of a dinosaur) for shielding the holding display of the holding data number display portion;
Shielding member control means for controlling the shielding member to change the holding display of the holding data number display section between a shielded state and a non-shielded non-shielded state (display control microcomputer 800; shielded state is shown in FIG. 4 (A-4), see (A-1) to (A-3) and (A-5) in FIG.
When there is pending data in which the display result of the variable display device becomes the specific display result among the pending data stored in the pending storage means, a pending display corresponding to the pending data is displayed in the predetermined display. Special display mode determining means (for game control) for determining whether or not to make a special display mode ("blue flashing 1", "blue flashing 2", "blue lighting", "red lighting") in FIG. 8) different from the mode Microcomputer 53, S81, S84, S85 in FIG.
In accordance with the determination by the special display mode determining means, the variable display device performs the special display control to change the hold display corresponding to the hold data whose display result is the specific display result to the special display mode. Notice means (display control microcomputer 800, see FIG. 4) for notifying that the display result of the display device is the specific display result,
The special display control is started when the reserved data number display unit is in the shielding state (see FIG. 5),
The shield member control means performs control to change the hold display of the hold data number display section from the shield state to the non-shield state after the notice means starts the special display control ((A in FIG. 4). -4) to (A-5)).

  According to such a configuration, an effect of notifying the occurrence of a specific display result in the reserved data number display section is performed, so that the notification can be performed without interrupting the variable display. Moreover, in order to start the control which makes the said display part the said special display mode from when the reservation data number display part is a shielding state, when a shielding member shields the reservation data display part, with respect to generation | occurrence | production of a specific display result The expectation of the player can be increased. In addition, since the shielding member operates and puts the reserved data number display portion in the shielding state, the player's attention can be directed to the shielding member and the reserved data number display portion.

  (2) The shielding member control means controls the shielding member (the shielding member 21b in the shape of the lower jaw of the dinosaur) when the reach state (reach state, reach mode, reach display mode) is established in the variable display. Then, control is performed to bring the reserved data number display section (starting memory display 18) into the shielding state ((A-4) in FIG. 4).

  According to such a configuration, the player can be interested not only in the expectation for the occurrence of the reach state, but also in the effect of notifying that a specific display result is obtained in the reserved data count display unit. it can.

  (3) The shielding member control means controls the shielding member (the shielding member 21b in the shape of the lower jaw of the dinosaur) when the plurality of types of identification information (special symbols) are variably started in the variable display device. Then, the reserved data number display section (starting memory display 18) is set to the shielding state.

  According to such a configuration, every time a plurality of types of identification information are variably started in the variable display device, an effect is given in which a specific display result is notified in the reserved data number display unit, and thus a notice is generated. The frequency increases and the player's expectation can be improved.

(4) Determining whether or not to put the hold display corresponding to the hold data in which the display result of the variable display device does not become the specific display result among the hold data stored in the hold storage means to the special display mode. False special display mode determination means (game control microcomputer 53, S82, S83, S84, S85 in FIG. 16),
In accordance with the determination of the false special display mode determination means, by executing special display control that sets the hold display corresponding to the hold data whose display result of the variable display device does not become the specific display result to the special display mode, Including false notice means (display control microcomputer 800, (A-5) in FIG. 4) for notifying that the display result of the variable display device is the specific display result,
The false notice means starts the special display control when the reserved data number display unit (starting storage display 18) is in the shielding state (see FIG. 5),
The shield member control means performs control to change the hold display of the hold data number display section from the shield state to the non-shield state after the false notice means starts the special display control ((FIG. 4 ( A-4) is changed to (A-5)).

  According to such a configuration, when there is pending data in which the display result of the variable display device does not become the specific display result among the pending data stored in the pending storage unit, the pending data number display unit Since the effect of notifying the occurrence of a specific display result is performed, the occurrence frequency of the notice is increased, and the player's expectation can be improved.

(5) Reach state determination means (game control microcomputer 53, FIG. 16) for determining whether or not a reach state is established when the display result determination means determines that the specific display result is not generated. S74, S75)
The false special display mode determination means is one of the hold data stored in the hold storage means when it is determined that the reach state is established by the reach state determination means (S76 in FIG. 16). It is determined whether or not the hold display corresponding to is set to the special display mode (S82, S84, S85 in FIG. 16).

  According to such a configuration, when it is determined by the reach state determination means that the reach state is established, the reserved data number display unit performs an effect of notifying the occurrence of a specific display result. The frequency of occurrence increases, and the player's expectation can be improved.

(6) When the special display mode determining means determines that the hold display is set to the special display mode, the special display mode is selected from a plurality of predetermined types ("blue flashing 1", " Further including special display mode selection means (game control microcomputer 53, S87, S88 in FIG. 16) for selecting from “blue flashing 2”, “blue lighting”, “red lighting”),
The special display mode selection means selects the special display mode so that the reliability of the notice varies depending on the type of the special display mode (see FIG. 10).

  According to such a configuration, when a notice is given in a special display mode with high reliability, the player can have a sense of expectation for the occurrence of a specific display result.

  (7) The special display mode determination means makes the determination when the number of reserved data stored in the reserved storage means is two or more (S62 in FIG. 16).

  According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent an effect of giving a notice of occurrence of a specific display result in the hold data number display unit when the hold data is not stored in the hold data storage unit.

  Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, a pachinko gaming machine is shown as an example of a gaming machine. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be a coin gaming machine or a slot machine, based on the establishment of a predetermined starting condition. A variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information, each of which can be identified, when the display result of the variable display device is a predetermined display result. Any gaming machine that can be controlled to an advantageous specific gaming state is a target.

First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described.
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine 1 as an example of a gaming machine according to the present invention and a card unit 50 installed correspondingly.

  The card unit 50 is provided with a card availability display lamp 151, and the player is notified by the lighting or blinking of the card availability display lamp 151 that the card unit 50 is in a usable state. This card unit 50 is installed in a state where it is inserted between a plurality of pachinko gaming machines 1 installed on the gaming machine installation island, and it indicates which of the left and right gaming machines is connected to the connected table. Displayed by the instrument 153.

  When the player inserts a prepaid card in which the card balance is recorded into the card insertion slot 155, the card balance recorded in the prepaid card is read. Next, when the player performs a predetermined ball lending operation, the balance for the lending unit amount which is set in advance is reduced, and the ball for the lending unit amount is the ball hit by the pachinko gaming machine 1. Lending to the supply tray 3.

  The card unit 50 is provided with a fraction display switch 152. By pressing the fraction display switch 152, for example, information such as a card balance and an error code when an error occurs is displayed on an information display (not shown) provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1. In the figure, reference numeral 156 denotes a card unit lock, which is configured to open the front side of the card unit 50 by inserting a predetermined key into the card unit lock 156 and performing an unlocking operation.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the rear of the glass door frame 2. Further, a ball supply tray 3 is provided on the lower surface of the glass door frame 2. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, there are provided a surplus ball receiving tray 4 for storing balls overflowing from the hitting ball supply tray 3 and an operation knob 5 for a player to hit the ball.

  By operating the operation knob 5 by the player, the hit balls stored in the hit ball supply tray 3 can be shot one by one. The fired hit ball is guided into the game area 7 by the guide rail 29. A valve-like backflow prevention member 30 is provided at the exit portion from the guide rail 29 to the game area 7. The backflow preventing member 30 prevents the hit ball once driven into the game area 7 from returning to the guide rail 29.

  In the center of the game area 7, there is provided a variable display device 8 for variably displaying special symbols (hereinafter also referred to as variable display) as an example of a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified. The identification information is a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified based on the establishment of a predetermined start condition.

  The variable display device 8 is provided with a special symbol display unit 9 made of a liquid crystal display, a start-up storage display 18, a passage storage display 15, a shielding member 21a and a shielding member 21b. Further, a warp inlet 11 is provided on the left and right sides of the variable display device 8, and an electric starter 14 a having a start port (start winning port) 14 is formed below the variable display device 8, and an opening / closing plate There is provided a variable winning ball device 19 which is in an open state in which a hitting ball can be won by tilting 20. In addition, as a general winning opening, winning openings 24 are respectively provided on the lower left and right sides of the variable display device 8. Further, the passage openings 12 through which the hit balls can enter are provided on the lower left and right sides of the variable display device 8. The hit ball that has entered the warp inlet 11 flows downward through the back side of the variable display device 8 and is discharged from the stage (warp outlet) 13 to the game area 7 again. For this reason, the hit ball discharged from the stage 13 is in a state where it is relatively easy to win the start opening 14. Reference numeral 26 denotes an out mouth that is collected as an out ball when the hit ball that has been struck does not win any of the winning opening 24 or the variable winning ball apparatus 19, and 25 is a decorative lamp.

  On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a game effect LED 42, a prize ball lamp 43 that lights when the prize ball is paid out, and a lamp ball break lamp 44 that lights when the ball is out of play are provided. Are provided with speakers 41 and 41 for generating sound effects such as stereo sound.

  The special symbol display unit 9 is not limited to a liquid crystal display, but is composed of other image display type display devices such as CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), FED (Field Emission Display), PDP (Plasma Display Panel), dot matrix, and the like. May be.

  The hit ball that has entered the passage 12 is detected by the gate switch 12a (see FIG. 2). When a hit ball is detected by the gate switch 12a, a predetermined random number value is extracted if the number of memories displayed on the passage memory display 15 has not reached the upper limit. And if it is a state which can start the variable display of the normal symbol display 10, the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 will be started. When the normal symbol display 10 is variably displayed, when the hit ball further enters the passage and is detected by the gate switch 12a, the normal symbol display 10 cannot start variable display. Therefore, passing balls (random number etc.) are stored in a predetermined storage device with “4” as the upper limit of the storage number, and the storage number is displayed on the passing storage display 13 by the number of lit LEDs. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs that are lit is reduced by one.

  The normal symbol display 10 includes a hit normal symbol display marked with “◯” and an off-normal symbol display marked with “x”. When the random number value extracted when the hit ball enters the passage opening 12 coincides with the predetermined hit determination value, it is determined that the display result of the variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is win, and “◯” The normal symbol indicator lights up with a mark. On the other hand, when the extracted random number value does not coincide with the predetermined hit decision value, it is determined that the display result of the variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is out of order, and the off normal symbol display with “x” is attached. The instrument lights up. When the hit normal symbol display with the “O” mark is turned on, the pair of left and right movable pieces provided on the starting electric accessory 14a is opened once. As a result, the starter electric accessory 14a is in an open state, and the hitting ball is easier to start. If one hitting ball wins when the starting electric accessory 14a is in the open state, the movable piece closes to the original position, and the hitting ball returns to the closed state where it is difficult to win. Further, if a predetermined opening period elapses after the starter electric accessory 14a is in the open state, the movable piece is closed to the original position and the open state is ended even if the start winning is not generated.

  A start winning ball that has won the start opening 14 (referred to as a start winning) is detected by a start opening switch 17 (see FIG. 2) provided on the game board 6. When the start winning ball is detected by the start switch 17, five prize balls are paid out, and a predetermined random number value is extracted if the stored number displayed on the start memory display 18 has not reached the upper limit. Is done.

  If the special symbol display unit 9 can start variable display (the variable display start condition is satisfied), the special symbol display unit 9 starts variable display of the special symbol. In addition, when the special symbol display unit 9 is variably displayed, when the hitting ball further wins the start port 14 and is detected by the start port switch 17, the special symbol display unit 9 starts variable display. Therefore, the start winning ball (random number, etc.) is stored in the RAM 55 mounted on the game control microcomputer 53, which will be described later, with “4” as the upper limit of the memory number, and the memory number is displayed as the start memory display. The indicator 18 is displayed by lighting the LED in a predetermined display mode (green). Each time the variable display device is variably started, the number of lit LEDs is reduced by one.

  The special symbol display unit 9 of the variable display device 8 is provided with three variable display units, a left variable display unit, a middle variable display unit, and a right variable display unit. When the variable display of each variable display unit can be started, the variable display of the special symbol is started simultaneously in the three variable display units. Variable display (also referred to as update display or variable display) is performed by scrolling a special symbol from top to bottom in each variable display section. In this embodiment, the special symbols variably displayed on each variable display section are 10 types of numbers from 0 to 9. The special symbol variably displayed in the special symbol display unit 9 may be any identification information as long as it is identification information such as a number, a character, a figure, a pattern, a character, etc., only a number, only a character, Only a figure, only a pattern, only a character, or a combination of these may be used.

  After a predetermined time has elapsed, the variable display is stopped and displayed in the order of the left variable display portion, the right variable display portion, and the middle variable display portion. When the variable display is stopped and displayed in all the variable display sections, if the predetermined display results (for example, “333” or the like) in the three variable display sections are aligned, it becomes “big hit” and the gaming state becomes A transition is made to a specific gaming state (also referred to as a big hit state) that is advantageous to the player. Hereinafter, a specific display result in such a specific gaming state (big hit state) is referred to as a big hit symbol. In the specific game state, the opening / closing plate 20 of the variable winning ball apparatus 19 is opened and the large winning opening is opened. Thereby, it is controlled to the 1st state advantageous for the player who can make a hit ball win a big winning opening. The opening / closing plate 20 is driven by a solenoid 21.

  A count switch 27 for detecting a hit ball that has won a prize in the variable winning ball apparatus 19 is provided inside the large winning opening of the variable winning ball apparatus 19. The special winning opening is divided into a specific winning area and a normal winning area, and a V count switch 28 for detecting a V winning is provided in the specific winning area. The winning ball that has won the specific winning area is detected by the V count switch 28 and then detected by the count switch 27. On the other hand, a normal winning ball won in the normal winning area is detected only by the count switch 27 in the big winning opening. Each time a winning ball won in the variable winning ball device 19 is detected by the count switch 27, 15 prize balls are paid out.

  On the back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1, there is provided a winning ball collective cover (not shown) that guides the winning balls that are won in each winning opening and the variable winning ball device along a predetermined winning path. The winning ball guided by the cover is supplied to a winning ball processing device (not shown) that processes one winning ball. The winning ball processing device is provided with a winning ball detection switch (not shown), and thereby, the winning ball to be paid out by the winning ball processing device is detected.

  The first state of the variable winning ball apparatus 19 is either when the number of hit balls that have entered the special winning opening reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10) or when a predetermined period (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed. When the earlier condition is established, the process is temporarily terminated and the opening / closing plate 20 is closed. Thereby, the variable winning ball apparatus 19 is controlled to a 2nd state unfavorable for the player who cannot win a hit ball. Then, on the condition that the hit ball that has entered during the period in which the variable winning ball device 19 is in the first state has made a specific winning in the specific winning area and has been detected by the V count switch 28, the variable winning at that time After the first state of the ball device 19 is finished and becomes the second state, the opening / closing plate 20 is opened again, and repeated continuation control is performed to place the variable winning ball device 19 in the first state. The upper limit number of executions of this repeated continuation control is set to 16 times, for example. In the repeated continuation control, the state in which the variable winning ball device 19 is in the first state is called a round. When the upper limit number of executions of the repeated continuation control is 16, the variable winning ball apparatus 19 can be set to the first state for 16 rounds from the first round to the 16th round.

  If the display results of the three variable display portions are configured with predetermined probability variation jackpot symbols (for example, a doublet such as “777”), there is a probability that a jackpot will occur compared to the normal gaming state. Improved probability variation state. In the following, jackpots with probability variation symbols are referred to as probability variation jackpots. A jackpot symbol other than the probability variation symbol is called a non-probability variation symbol, and a jackpot due to the non-probability variation symbol is called a non-probability variation jackpot.

  When a probable big hit occurs, the probability variation state is controlled for a predetermined duration. In addition, when the probability variation jackpot occurs again within this period, the probability variation state again occurs after the end of the specific gaming state associated with the second probability variation jackpot. Therefore, if the number of consecutive probable big hits is not limited, it may be repeatedly controlled to the probability fluctuation state for an extremely long time, and the player's gambling will be overwhelmed by the special gaming state. . Therefore, in the case of this pachinko gaming machine 1, after the first probability variation jackpot has occurred, if the probability variation jackpot continues for a predetermined number of times, there is a restriction so that the probability variation jackpot does not occur. The probability variation state is also called a high probability state, a probability improvement state, or a probability variation state. In the probability variation state, the probability that the display result of the normal symbol display 10 to be described later is a hit is also improved.

  When the display results of the three variable display portions are neither big hit symbol nor probable big hit symbol, the game state is “disconnected” and the gaming state remains unchanged and remains in the normal state.

  Further, a reach state (reach mode, reach display mode) may occur during variable display of each variable display unit.

  Here, the reach state (reach display mode) has a variable display device including a variable display unit that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can each be identified based on establishment of a predetermined start condition, After variably starting the plurality of types of identification information in the variable display section, a plurality of display results are derived and displayed at different times, and the gaming state is determined to be a player when a predetermined display result is obtained. In a gaming machine that is in a specific gaming state that is advantageous for the player, a display that satisfies the condition that the display result that has already been derived and displayed becomes a specific display result when some of the plurality of display results have not yet been derived and displayed State.

  In other words, the reach state is when the display result of the identification information in the variable display device having a plurality of variable display units that can change the display state becomes a predetermined specific display result. In a gaming machine in which the gaming state is in a specific gaming state advantageous for the player, the game is performed when the specific display result is easily displayed when the display result of the variable display device is not yet derived and displayed. This is the display state that makes a person think. For example, a state in which variable display by the plurality of variable display units is performed while maintaining the state in which the specific display result is obtained is also included in the reach display state. Furthermore, some reach is likely to generate a big hit when it appears, compared to the normal reach state. Such a specific reach state is called super reach.

  The reach state is also deviated from the display condition for the specific display result even when the variable display control is started after the variable display device is variably started and the display result is reached before the display result is derived and displayed. It also refers to a display mode that is not.

  The reach state is a display state at the time when the variable display control of the variable display device progresses to reach a stage before the display result is derived and displayed, and before the display result is derived and displayed. It also refers to a display state in a case where at least a part of the determined display results of the plurality of variable display units satisfies the condition for the specific display result.

  In addition, the reach state means that the display result of the variable display unit already derived and displayed is a specific display result when the display result is not yet derived and displayed in some of the variable display units of the plurality of variable display units. A display state that satisfies the following conditions.

  The full rotation reach state refers to a display state in which variable display is performed while a specific display result is held in all of the plurality of variable display units.

  A shield member 21a in the shape of a dinosaur face is provided on the upper side of the start memory indicator 18, and a shield member 21b in the shape of the lower jaw of a dinosaur is provided on the lower side of the start memory indicator 18. ing. The shielding member 21b is operated in the vertical direction by a solenoid 21c (see FIG. 2) provided on the back surface of the game board 6. When the shielding member 21b, which is the lower jaw, is moved upward by the action of the solenoid 21c and the mouth of the dinosaur is closed, the start-up memory display 18 is in a shielding state invisible to the player. On the other hand, when the shielding member 21b, which is the lower jaw, operates downward and the mouth of the dinosaur is open, the start-up memory display 18 is in an unshielded state visible to the player. When a reach state occurs during variable display, a notice effect using the shielding members 21a and 21b is performed. When the reach state occurs during the variable display, the shielding member 21b operates in the upward direction, and the start memory display 18 becomes a shielding state that is not visible to the player. The shielding member 21b in the shielding state operates in a downward direction after a lapse of a predetermined time, and enters a non-shielding state in which the mouth of the dinosaur is opened. A special display mode (for example, the LED is lit in red) different from a predetermined display mode (for example, the LED is lit in green) during the period from the shielding state to the non-shielding state. ) Is lit. Then, the player can confirm that the LED of the start memory display 18 is displayed in a special display mode when the mouth of the dinosaur is opened and the non-shielding state is established.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a circuit configuration in the game control board 131.
FIG. 2 shows a game control board 131, a payout control board 137, a sound control board 170, a lamp control board 135, a launch control board 91, and a display control board 80. The payout control board 137, the sound control board 170, the lamp control board 135, the launch control board 91, and the display control board 80 are equipped with a microcomputer, for example, a CPU and an I / O port.

  The game control board 131 includes a game control microcomputer 53 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program, a switch circuit 58, a solenoid circuit 59, an information output circuit 64, an initial reset circuit 65, and an address decode circuit. 67 is installed.

  The game control microcomputer 53 includes a ROM 54 that stores a game control program and the like, a RAM 55 that is an example of storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 that performs control operations in accordance with the control program, and an I / O port unit 57. Is a microcomputer for game control. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and RAM 55 are mounted on the CPU 56. That is, the CPU 56 is a one-chip microcomputer. Note that the CPU 56, the ROM 54, and the RAM 55 may not be integrated into one chip. That is, the ROM 54, the RAM 55, and the I / O port unit 57 may be external or built in. The I / O port unit 57 is a terminal capable of inputting and outputting information in the microcomputer.

  The switch circuit 58 includes a gate switch 12a, a start port switch 17, a count switch 27, a V count switch 28, a full tank switch 148, a winning port switch 24a, a ball break detection switch 167, a ball break switch 187, and a prize ball count switch 301A. This is a circuit for giving the game signal to the game control microcomputer.

  The solenoid circuit 59 is a circuit that drives the solenoid 16 that opens and closes the starting electric accessory 14 a and the solenoid 26 that opens and closes the opening and closing plate of the special variable winning ball apparatus 19 in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 53.

  The information output circuit 64 indicates that the probability variation has occurred according to the data supplied from the game control microcomputer 53 and that the probability variation state has occurred, and that the jackpot has occurred and the specific game state has been established. This is a circuit that outputs start winning information indicating the occurrence of a start winning that is effectively used for variable display of the special symbol display unit 9 among the jackpot information and the starting winning shown to a host computer such as a hall management computer.

  The address decode circuit 67 is a circuit that decodes an address signal supplied from the game control microcomputer 53 and outputs a signal for selecting any one of the I / O ports 57.

  A ball payout device 97 and a card unit 45 are connected to the payout control board 137. A speaker 41 is connected to the sound control board 170. Connected to the lamp control board 135 are a game effect LED 42, a prize ball lamp 43, a ball break lamp 44, a passing memory indicator 15, and a decoration lamp 25. An operation knob (hit ball operation handle) 5 and a drive motor 94 for driving a ball hammer (not shown) are connected to the firing control board 91. The driving force of the drive motor 94 is adjusted according to the operation amount of the operation knob 5. The display control board 80 is connected to the normal symbol display 10, the special symbol display unit 9, the start-up memory display 18, and the soleinoid 21c.

  From the game control microcomputer 53 to the microcomputer mounted on the payout control board 137, a command as command information related to award ball payout control and a command as command information related to a payout payout control (for example, ball rental prohibition) Command, ball lending prohibition release command, etc.).

  From the game control microcomputer 53 to the microcomputer mounted on the sound control board 170, sound as command information relating to sound control such as sound effects output from the speaker 41 by the microcomputer mounted on the sound control board 170 is transmitted. Information such as control commands is transmitted.

  Information such as a lamp control command, which is command information for controlling devices controlled by the lamp control board 135, is transmitted from the game control microcomputer 53 to the lamp control microcomputer mounted on the lamp control board 135. Is done. A lamp control microcomputer (not shown) which is a lamp control means mounted on the lamp control board 135 includes a game effect LED 42, a prize ball lamp 43, a ball break lamp 44, a decoration lamp 25, a passing memory display 15, and a start. Display control of the memory display 20 is performed. On the lamp control board 135, the lamp control microcomputer performs control for driving the control target device in accordance with the lamp control command.

  The display control of the special symbol display unit 9 for variably displaying the special symbol and the normal symbol display 10 for variably displaying the normal symbol is performed by a display control microcomputer 800 which is a variable display control means mounted on the display control board 80. Done. Information such as a display control command as command information regarding display control of the special symbol display unit 9 is transmitted from the game control microcomputer 53 to the display control microcomputer 800. Further, a solenoid 21c for operating the shielding member 21b is connected, and a solenoid drive signal is supplied to the solenoid 21c.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration in the display control board 80 together with an LCD (special symbol display unit) 9 for realizing image display.

  The display control CPU 101 incorporating the RAM 101a operates according to a program stored in the control data ROM 102, and displays a display control signal INT (interrupt signal) as a strobe signal from the game control board 31 via the input buffer 105a in the input buffer circuit 105. Display control CPU 101 enters an interrupt operation state and takes in display control command data. Then, display control of an image displayed on the LCD (special symbol display unit) 9 is performed in accordance with the fetched display control command data. The control data ROM 102 stores various types of display control data such as data related to the display pattern of variable display.

  Specifically, the display control CPU 101 reads out the identification number of the initial screen of the display command data and the symbol variation data from the control data ROM 102 and transmits it to the VDP 103. The VDP 103 causes the VRAM 87 to store map data indicating the arrangement relationship of images on the display screen according to the identification number of the display screen. The map data stored in the VRAM 87 is added with information such as symbol enlargement, reduction, rotation, inversion, and coordinates in accordance with the symbol control program stored in the control data ROM 102. The VDP 103 reads map data from the VRAM 87 at a predetermined timing, and reads dot data of each image from the character ROM 86 based on the identification number of each image included in the map data. Next, the VDP 103 performs a coloring process on the read dot data to generate an image display signal. The VDP 103 transmits an analog RGB signal obtained by converting the generated image signal by the DA conversion circuit 104 and a composite synchronization signal SYNC to an LCD (special symbol display unit) 9. The LCD (special symbol display unit) 9 displays an image on the LCD (special symbol display unit) 9 based on the transmitted RGB signal and the composite synchronization signal SYNC.

  FIG. 3 shows a reset circuit 83 for resetting the VDP 103, an oscillation circuit 85 for supplying an operation clock to the VDP 103, a character ROM 86 for storing frequently used image data, and an input for inputting display control command data. A buffer circuit 105 is also shown. The frequently used image data stored in the character ROM 86 is, for example, an image made up of a person, animal, character, figure, symbol, or the like displayed on the LCD 9.

  The display control CPU 101 has a built-in RAM 101a for storing display control command data. When a display control command is received from the game control board 31, a background or character predetermined in each variation pattern is displayed on the screen. Control to move and display above. Note that the background and the character are switched at a predetermined timing, and the display control CPU 101 also controls them independently.

  The input buffer circuit 105 to which a display control command is input on the display control board 80 side allows signal transmission only in the direction from the game control board 31 to the display control board 80, but game control is performed from the display control board 80 side. This is an irreversible input means that does not transmit a signal toward the substrate 131 side. As the input buffer 105a constituting the input buffer circuit 105, for example, a general-purpose CMOS-IC 74HC244 is used in two chips. The enable terminal of the input buffer 105a is always given a low level (GND level). According to such a configuration, the possibility that a signal is given from the display control board 80 to the game control board 31 can be reliably eliminated. Therefore, there is no room for signals to be transmitted from the display control board 80 side to the game control board 131 side, and even if unauthorized modification is added to the transmission path of the display control command, a signal output by unauthorized modification is sent to the game control board 131 side. There is no transmission. For this reason, one-way communication between the game control board 131 and the display control board 80 is secured, and an illegal signal (data) is input to the game control board 31 via the transmission path of the display control command. Therefore, it is possible to reliably prevent an illegal act that causes a proper control operation. In addition, since the irreversible input means is configured by a buffer IC circuit, it is possible to prevent illegal information from being input to the game control board 131 relatively easily. Note that other circuit elements such as individual transistors may be provided as the irreversible input means.

  Similarly, the output buffer circuit 63 from which the display control command is output on the game control board 131 side allows signal transmission only in the direction from the game control board 131 to the display control board 80, but from the display control board 80 side. This is an output interface having irreversibility that does not transmit a signal toward the game control board 31 side. Therefore, there is no room for signals to be transmitted from the display control board 80 side to the game control board 31 side, and even if unauthorized modification is added to the transmission path of the display control command, a signal output by unauthorized modification is sent to the game control board 131 side. There is no transmission.

  FIG. 4 is a screen diagram showing a state of a notice effect performed using the shielding members 21a and 21b.

  As described above, the shield member 21a in the shape of a dinosaur face and the shield member 21b in the shape of the lower jaw of the dinosaur are provided above and below the start memory display 18. A downward arrow in the figure indicates that the special symbol is variably displayed in the variable display section. When a reach state occurs during variable display, a notice effect is performed using the shielding member 21a and the shielding member 21b. The state of the notice effect will be described with reference to the screen diagram.

  Initially, the shielding member 21b in the shape of the lower jaw of the dinosaur is in a state in which the mouth of the dinosaur is opened, and is in a non-shielding state in which the player can see the start memory indicator 18. Four LEDs of the start memory display 18 are lit in a predetermined display mode (green lighting), indicating that there are four start memories. At this time, the variable display of the special symbol display unit 9 is stopped (A-1). After a while, variable display is started in the variable display section of the special symbol display section 9 based on the start-up memory. Since the variable display is started based on the start memory, one LED of the start memory display 18 that has been lit is extinguished (A-2). After the predetermined time has elapsed, first, the special symbol on the left variable display portion is stopped and displayed. Next, the special symbol on the right variable display portion is stopped and displayed. At this time, the special symbol of the left variable display unit and the special symbol of the right variable display unit are stopped and displayed with the same special symbol, and a reach state occurs (A-3). When the reach state occurs, the shield member 21b in the shape of the lower jaw of the dinosaur is moved upward by the soleinoid 21c, and the mouth of the dinosaur is closed, and the start memory display 18 cannot be seen by the player. It will be in a state (A-4). After a predetermined period of time, the dinosaur's mouth opens and the start memory indicator 18 is in an unshielded state where the player can see it. At this time, when a start memory whose display result is a big hit is included in the three start memories, a special display in which the LED of the start memory indicator 18 corresponding to the big hit start memory is different from a predetermined display mode. By displaying in a mode (“blue flashing 1”, “blue flashing 2”, “blue lighting”, “red lighting”), the occurrence of a big hit is notified in advance. Finally, the special symbol of the middle variable display portion is stopped and displayed, and the special symbols of all the variable display portions are stopped and displayed (A-5).

  The notice effect described above may be a notice effect of gasses. That is, even if the big hit is not stored in the start memory, the LED of the start memory display 18 may change from a predetermined display mode to a special display mode. Gase's notice effect will be described in detail later.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the timing when the LEDs of the start memory display 18 are switched from the predetermined display mode to the special display mode.

  FIG. 5 shows the state from the start of variable display of each variable display unit to the stop display of all variable display units. The state of variable display, the state of the shielding member 21b, and the start memory display during that period. 18 shows the state of 18.

  When variable display of the special symbol display unit 9 is started (variation start), the shielding member 21b in the shape of the lower jaw of the dinosaur is in an unshielded state, and the LED of the start memory display 18 is displayed in a predetermined display mode. Has been. When the reach state occurs during variable display, the shielding member 21b operates upward, and the dinosaur mouth is closed. At this time, the start memory display 18 is covered with the shielding member 21b and is not visible to the player. When the predetermined time elapses, the shielding member 21b operates downward, enters the unshielded state with the dinosaur mouth open, and allows the player to view the start-up memory display 18. When the dinosaur mouth is in an unshielded state, the start-up memory display 18 has been switched from a predetermined display mode to a special display mode, and a notice is being displayed. The LED of the start memory display 18 is switched from a predetermined display mode to a special display mode from the time when the dinosaur mouth is closed to the shielding state until the time when the dinosaur mouth is opened to the non-shielding state. The timing may be any time from the closed state where the dinosaur's mouth is closed to the unshielded state where the dinosaur's mouth is opened.

  The timing at which the LEDs of the start-up memory display 18 described above are switched from the predetermined display mode to the special display mode is the same as when a notice announcement effect is performed.

  Thus, since the effect of notifying the occurrence of the big hit is performed on the start-up memory display 18, the notification effect can be performed without interrupting the variable display. Further, in order to start the control for making the display unit a special display mode from when the start memory indicator 18 is in the shielded state, when the shield member 21b shields the start memory indicator 18, the player's against the occurrence of a big hit Expectation can be raised. Further, since the shielding member 21b is activated to put the start memory indicator 18 in a shielding state, the player's attention can be directed to the shielding member 21b and the start memory indicator 18.

  In addition, when a reach state occurs, a notice effect is performed using the shielding members 21a and 21b, so that not only a sense of expectation for the occurrence of the reach state but also a notice effect performed in the start-up memory display 18 is performed. Can also interest players.

  In addition, not only in the case of the reach state that occurs when the probability variation big hit or big hit is displayed as the display result, but also in the case of the reach state that occurs when the outage is displayed as the display result, The occurrence frequency of the notice is increased, and the player's expectation can be improved.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing each random counter for generating a random number used for game control of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  In this embodiment, a plurality of types of random counters are used to generate a plurality of types of random numbers. This random counter has a value every time the game control program is executed periodically (specifically, every 2 msec), or every time the game control program is executed periodically and at the remaining time of the interrupt process. "1" is added and updated.

  R1 randomly determines whether or not to generate a big hit as a specific gaming state, and is added and updated by “1” every 2 msec within the range of “0” to “199”. When it reaches a certain “199”, it is updated again from “0”. When a start winning is detected by the start port switch 17, the count value of the random counter is extracted accordingly, and whether or not the extracted count value matches a predetermined jackpot decision value is displayed. It is determined before being displayed. When the extracted count value matches the jackpot determination value, it is determined to generate a jackpot.

  R2-1, R2-2, and R2-3 are used to predetermine a symbol that is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 9 when a loss is preliminarily determined by R1 (for jackpot determination). It is a random counter. R2-1 is incremented and updated by "1" every 2 msec and within the interrupt processing surplus time within the range of "0" to "9", and is incremented and updated up to the upper limit "9" and then again from "0". It is added and updated.

  R2-2 is incremented and updated by "1" for each carry of R2-1, and is incremented and updated again from "0" when the upper limit of "9" is reached.

  In R2-3, "1" is added and updated every carry of R2-2, and when the upper limit "9" is reached, the addition is updated again from "0".

  If the determined missing symbol accidentally becomes a doublet, “1” is added to the extracted value of R2-2 to forcibly become a missing symbol.

  R3 is a random counter used to determine a stop symbol when a big hit is determined in advance by R1 (for big hit determination). Within the range of “0” to “9”, “1” is added and updated every 2 msec, and the upper limit “9” is added and updated, and then “0” is added and updated again. When the count value extracted from R3 is an even number, it becomes a non-probable variable big hit symbol, and when the count value extracted from R3 is an odd number, it becomes a probable big hit symbol that shifts to a probability variation state after the big hit state ends.

  R4 is a random counter for determining the variation type (variation pattern) when the special symbol is variably displayed, and is “1” for every 2 msec within the range of “0” to “149” and the remaining interrupt processing time. Addition update is performed, and addition update is performed up to the upper limit “149”, and then addition update is performed again from “0”. As for the fluctuation pattern, the type of table to be used is determined by the value extracted by R1 (for big hit symbol determination), R2 (for lost symbol determination), R3 (for big hit symbol determination), and corresponds by the value extracted by R4. The variation pattern to be determined is determined.

  R5 is a random counter that determines whether or not to generate a reach state when a deviation is pre-determined by R1 (for big hit determination), and every 2 msec and interrupts within the range of “0” to “13” The process is incremented and updated by “1” for the remaining processing time, and is incremented and updated up to “13” which is the upper limit, and then is incremented and updated again from “0”. When a start winning is detected by the start port switch 17, the count value of the random counter is extracted accordingly, and whether or not the extracted count value matches a predetermined reach state determination value is displayed. Is determined before being displayed. When the extracted count value matches the reach state determination value, it is determined to generate a reach state.

  R6 is a random counter for deciding whether or not to give a notice effect, and is incremented and updated by “1” every 2 msec within the range of “0” to “99”, up to the upper limit “99”. After the addition update, the addition update is performed again from “0”.

  R7 is a random counter for determining the pattern of the notice effect when it is decided to perform the notice effect by R6 (for notice determination), and every 2 msec within the range of “0” to “99” and One is added and updated at the interruption processing surplus time, the addition is updated up to the upper limit “99”, and then the addition is updated again from “0”.

  R8 is a random counter for determining a normal symbol hit, and is updated by adding “1” every 2 msec within the range of “0” to “1”, and after being added and updated to the upper limit “1”. The addition is again updated from “0”.

  R9 is a random counter for determining an initial value of R1 (for determining the big hit), and is updated by incrementing by “1” every 2 msec and interrupt processing surplus time within the range of “0” to “199”. After the addition and update to a certain “199”, the addition is updated again from “0”.

  R10 is a random counter for determining an initial value of R8 (for determining per ordinary symbol), and is updated by adding “1” every 2 msec and the interrupt processing surplus time within the range of “0” to “1”. Is added and updated to “1”, and then is added and updated again from “0”.

  In the random counter shown above, data is extracted at random timing (for example, when a start prize is generated) in accordance with the establishment of the extraction condition defined for each random counter. Thereby, the data extracted from each random counter becomes a random value (random value).

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating various determination tables. (A) is a jackpot determination table, (B) is a reach state determination table, and (C) is a notice determination table.

  When the count value extracted from R1 (for jackpot determination) matches the jackpot determination value in the jackpot determination table of (A), it is determined to generate a jackpot. In a normal time that is not a high probability, when the count value extracted from R1 (for jackpot determination) is “3”, it is determined in advance that a big hit will be generated, and the count value extracted from R3 (for jackpot symbol determination) Based on this, the jackpot symbol displayed on the special symbol display unit 9 is determined. On the other hand, when the count value extracted from R1 (for determining the big hit) is other than “3”, the deviation is determined in advance, and the counts extracted from R2-1, R2-2, R2-3 (for determining the outlier symbol) Based on the value, the off symbol displayed on the special symbol display unit 9 is determined. Here, when the determined outlier symbol is accidentally doubled, the count value of R2-2 is incremented by "1" to forcibly display the symbol as a disjoint symbol.

  On the other hand, at the time of high probability, when the count value extracted from R1 (for determining the big hit) is “3”, “7”, “79”, “103”, “107”, it is predetermined to generate the big hit. The On the other hand, when the count value extracted from R1 (for jackpot determination) is other than the count value at a high probability, the loss is determined in advance.

  When the count value extracted from R5 (for reach determination) and the reach state determination value in the reach state determination table in (B) match, it is determined that the reach state is out of place (reach out). The In a normal time that is not a high probability time, when the count value extracted from R5 (for reach determination) is “0”, “1”, “11”, it is determined in advance that a reach deviation will occur. , R5 (for reach determination), when the count value is “0”, “1”, “7”, “9”, “11”, “12”, it is determined in advance that the reach shift will occur. The

  If the count value extracted from R6 (for notice determination) matches the notice determination value in the notice determination table of (C), it is determined to perform the notice effect. In the notice determination table of (C), the range of the notice determination value varies depending on the count value extracted from R1 (for jackpot symbol determination), R2 (for lost symbol determination), and R3 (for jackpot symbol determination). There are four types of notice decision value ranges. When the count value extracted from R1 (for big hit determination) is determined in advance to be a big hit, and when it is determined that the probability change big hit will occur based on the count value extracted from R3 (for big hit symbol determination), the probability change big hit Whether or not to perform a notice effect is determined based on the notice decision value at the time. When it is determined in advance that the jackpot will be a big hit based on the count value extracted from R1 (for jackpot determination), and it is determined that a non-probable big hit will occur based on the count value extracted from R3 (for jackpot symbol determination) Whether or not to perform a notice effect is determined by the notice decision value at the time of a probable big hit. When it is determined in advance that the count value extracted from R1 (for determining the big hit) will be out of reach, and it is determined in advance that the reach state will be generated based on the count value extracted from R5 (for determining the reach), the reach is lost. Whether or not to perform a notice effect is determined based on the notice decision value at the time. When it is determined in advance that the deviation will be caused by the count value extracted from R1 (for determining the big hit), and it is determined in advance that a reach state will not occur due to the count value extracted from R5 (for determining the reach). Whether or not to perform a notice effect is determined based on the notice decision value.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a notice pattern determination table for determining a notice pattern when a notice effect is performed.

  The notice pattern refers to the type of special display mode displayed on the LED of the start memory indicator 18 when a notice effect is performed. There are four types of notice patterns: “blue flashing 1”, “blue flashing 2”, “blue lighting”, and “red lighting”. The flashing time interval differs between “flashing 1” and “flashing 2”, and the flashing time interval of “flashing 1” is set to be longer than the flashing time interval of “flashing 2”. .

  If the display result is determined to be “probable big hit” based on the count value extracted from R1 (for big hit determination) and the count value extracted from R3 (for big hit symbol determination), then The notice pattern is determined using the table. In the probability variation big hit table, the ratios for selecting the respective notice patterns are 3/100 for “green lighting”, 5/100 for “blue flashing 1”, 7/100 for “blue flashing 2”, and “blue lighting”. Is set to 15/100, and “red light” is set to 70/100, and “red light” is set most easily.

  If it is predetermined that the display result will be “non-probable big hit” by the count value extracted from R1 (for big hit determination) and the count value extracted from R3 (for big hit symbol determination) A notice pattern is determined using a table for jackpot. In the table for non-probable big hits, the ratios for selecting the respective notice patterns are 5/100 for “green lighting”, 10/100 for “blue flashing 1”, 15/100 for “blue flashing 2”, and “blue lighting”. "Is set to 20/100, and" red light "is set to 50/100. In the big hit table, “red light” is set most easily, but the selection ratio is smaller than the probability variation big hit table.

  If the display result is pre-determined to be “reach out” by the count value extracted from R1 (for big hit determination) and the count value extracted from R5 (for reach determination) A notice pattern is determined using a table. In the table for losing reach, the ratios for selecting the respective notice patterns are 50/100 for “green lighting”, 20/100 for “blue flashing 1”, 15/100 for “blue flashing 2”, and “blue lighting”. Is set to 10/100, and “red light” is set to 5/100. In the reach loss table, “green lighting” is set most easily.

  If it is determined in advance that the display result is “out of” by the count value extracted from R1 (for determining the big hit) and the count value extracted from R5 (for determining the reach), the table for outliers is displayed. The notice pattern is determined using this. In the table for loss, the ratios for selecting the respective notice patterns are 70/100 for “green lighting”, 15/100 for “blue flashing 1”, 7/100 for “blue flashing 2”, and “blue lighting”. 5/100, “red lighting” is set to 3/100. Similarly to the reach deviation table, “green lighting” is set to be most easily selected, and the selection ratio is set to be higher than the reach deviation table.

  As described above, even when the start memory that is a big hit is stored, “green lighting” is selected, and the LED of the start memory display 18 does not switch from the predetermined display mode to the special display mode. Even when there is no start memory that is a big hit, the LED of the start memory display 18 is switched from a predetermined display mode to a special display mode, and a notice announcement effect may be performed . As a result, when there is pending data whose display result is not a big hit among the pending data stored in the start memory, the start memory display 18 performs an effect of giving a notice of the occurrence of the big hit. The frequency increases and the player's expectation can be improved.

FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the appearance rate of each notice pattern.
In FIG. 9, “the lottery rate at the time of determining the big hit” is the lottery rate at the time of determining whether or not to win the big hit. The “reach determination lottery rate” is a lottery rate at the time of determining whether or not to reach the reach state. “Pattern selection rate” indicates which probability pattern is displayed at what probability when a big hit or a loss is determined in advance. When the jackpot is determined in advance, the notice pattern is selected using the table for jackpot, and when the loss is determined in advance, the notice pattern is selected using the table for loss. “Appearance rate” is the probability that each notice pattern will be displayed, and is calculated by “Lottery determination lottery rate” × “Leach determination determination lottery rate” × “Pattern selection rate”.

  The green lighting (removal) is a warning pattern in which the LED of the start memory display 18 is displayed in green lighting when the warning is predetermined and the warning effect is performed. Similarly, blue flashing 1 (out), blue flashing 2 (out), blue lighting (out) and red lighting (out) are determined in advance, and the start-up memory display 18 is displayed when a notice effect is performed. Are the notice patterns displayed in blue flashing 1, blue flashing 2, blue lighting and red lighting. The green lighting (big hit) is a notice pattern in which the LED of the start memory indicator 18 is displayed in green when the big hit is determined in advance and the notice effect is performed. Similarly, blue flashing 1 (big hit), blue flashing 2 (big hit), blue lighting (big hit) and red lighting (big hit) are determined in advance and the start memory display 18 is displayed when a notice effect is performed. Are the notice patterns displayed in blue flashing 1, blue flashing 2, blue lighting and red lighting.

  For example, in the case of green lighting (outage), when determining whether or not to make a big hit, the difference is drawn by lottery, and the reach is determined when determining whether or not to enter the reach state on the assumption that the outage has been determined in advance. When it is determined that a lottery is not to be performed, green lighting (off) is displayed. Therefore, since the “hit determination lottery rate” is a probability that a big hit will not occur, 1− “probability of big hit” = 1−1 / 200 = 199/200. The “reach determination lottery rate” is a probability that the reach is not displayed when it is determined to be out of date. There are 10 types of special symbols in each variable display section, and the “probability that a reach state will occur” when they become a doublet is 1/10 × 1/10 × 10 = 1/10. Therefore, the “probability that the reach state does not occur” is 1− “probability that the reach state occurs” = 1−1 / 10 = 9/10. On the assumption that no big hit occurs and a reach state does not occur, the probability that the green lighting (disconnection) is selected is 70/100. Therefore, the appearance rate is a product of three values, which is 62.685%. The appearance rates of other notice patterns are calculated in the same manner.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the jackpot appearance rate, the overall appearance rate, and the jackpot reliability in each notice pattern. The “hit hit rate” is the probability that the notice pattern is displayed when it is determined in advance that a big hit will be made. The “total appearance rate” is the probability that the notice pattern will be displayed when the jackpot is pre-determined, and the notice pattern will be displayed when the outage is pre-determined and the reach state is not established It is the sum of the probability.

  As shown in FIG. 10, for example, in the case of “green lighting”, the jackpot appearance rate is 0.025% and the overall appearance rate is 62.710%. The jackpot reliability when each notice pattern is displayed is calculated as “hit hit rate” / “total appearance rate” × 100 in each notice pattern, so that the jackpot reliability when green light is on is 0. .040%. In this embodiment, since the reliability of the jackpot is set to be different depending on the notice pattern, when the notice is given by the special display mode with a high reliability of red lighting, the player has a specific display result. We can have a sense of expectation for the occurrence of

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a game control main process executed by the game control microcomputer 53.

  First, in steps S (hereinafter simply referred to as “S”) 1 to S14, processing for performing initial setting for execution of control processing is performed. In S1, interrupts are prohibited. Next, in S2, an interrupt mode 2 indicating an interrupt processing mode is set. In S3, the stack pointer is set. In S4, the built-in device register is set. In S5, CTC and PIO are set. In S6, settings are made to make the RAM accessible.

  Next, in S7, the CPU 56 confirms the state of the output signal of the clear switch input via the input port only once. If ON is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes normal initialization processing in S11 to S14.

  If the clear switch is not in the on state, whether or not data protection processing (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) in the backup RAM area was performed when power supply to the gaming machine was stopped in S8 Confirm whether or not. If it is confirmed that such a protection process has not been performed, the CPU 56 executes an initialization process. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process. In this embodiment, if “55H” is set in the backup flag area, it means that there is a backup (ON state), and if a value other than “55H” is set, it means that there is no backup (OFF state). .

  If it is confirmed that there is a backup, in S9, the CPU 56 performs a data check of the backup RAM area (parity check in this example). In S9, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, an initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.

  If the check result is normal, in S10, the CPU 56 restores the game state restoration process for returning the internal state of the game control board 31 and the control state of the electric component control board such as the display control board 80 to the state when the power supply is stopped. To do. Then, the saved value of the PC (program counter) saved in the backup RAM area is set in the PC, and the address is restored. In this embodiment, it is confirmed whether or not the data in the backup RAM area is stored by using both the backup flag and the check data, but only one of them may be used. That is, either the backup flag or the check data may be used as an opportunity for executing the state recovery process.

  In the initialization process, first, in S11, the CPU 56 performs a RAM clear process. In S12, a predetermined work area (for example, a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol left middle right special symbol buffer, a special symbol process flag, a payout command storage pointer, a winning ball flag, a ball A work area setting process for setting an initial value to a flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state, such as a cut flag or a payout stop flag. Furthermore, in S13, a process of transmitting an initialization command for initializing the sub-board (in this embodiment, the payout control board 35 and each effect control board) to the microcomputer mounted on each sub-board is executed. The initialization command includes a command indicating the initial symbol displayed on the special symbol display unit 9 (for the display control board 80), a command for instructing the extinction of the winning ball lamp 51 and the ball-out lamp 52, and the like.

  In S14, a CTC register provided in the CPU 56 is set so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every 2 msec. That is, an initial value corresponding to 2 msec is set in a predetermined register (time constant register).

  When the execution of the initialization process of S11 to S14 is completed, the display random number update process in S16 and the initial value random number update process in S17 are repeatedly executed in the main process. When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are executed, the interrupt is prohibited in S15. When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are finished, the split value is updated in S18. It is made into a permission state. The display random number is a random number for determining the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display unit 9, and the display random number update process updates the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. It is processing. The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. The initial value random number is a random number for determining an initial value of a count value such as a counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to make a big hit (a big hit determination random number generation counter). In a game control process described later, when the count value of the jackpot determination random number generation counter makes one round, an initial value is set in the counter.

  Note that when the display random number update process is executed, the interrupt is prohibited. The display random number update process is also executed in the timer interrupt process described later, and thus conflicts with the process in the timer interrupt process. This is to avoid that. That is, when the timer interrupt is generated during the processing of S16 and the count value of the counter for generating the display random number is updated during the timer interrupt processing, the continuity of the count value is impaired. There is. However, such an inconvenience does not occur if the interrupt is prohibited during the processing of S16.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a 2 msec timer interrupt process executed by the game control microcomputer 53.

  When a timer interrupt occurs, in S19, the CPU 56 performs a register saving process and then executes a game control process in S20 to S34. First, in S20, the CPU 56 inputs detection signals of switches such as the gate switch 12a, the start port switch 17, the count switch 27, the V count switch 28, and the winning ball detection switch 99 through the switch circuit 58, State determination is performed.

  Next, in S21, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a jackpot determination random number used for game control is performed. In S22, the CPU 56 performs processing for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number, and in S23, performs processing for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number.

  In S24, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing. In the special symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 in a predetermined order according to the gaming state. The value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state. In S25, normal symbol process processing is performed. In the normal symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

  In S26, the CPU 56 performs a process (special symbol command control process) of setting a display control command related to the special symbol in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 and transmitting the display control command. In S27, a display control command related to the normal symbol is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 and a display control command is transmitted (normal symbol command control processing).

  In S28, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, starting information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example.

  In S29, the CPU 56 executes a winning ball process for setting the number of winning balls based on the detection signal of the winning ball detection switch 99. Specifically, a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls is output to the payout control board 137 mounted on the payout control board 137 in response to winning detection based on the winning ball detection switch 99 being turned on. The payout control CPU mounted on the payout control board 137 drives the ball payout device 97 according to a payout control command indicating the number of prize balls.

  In S <b> 30, the CPU 56 executes a storage process for checking increase / decrease in the start winning storage number. In S31, a test terminal process, which is a process for outputting a test signal for enabling the control state of the gaming machine to be confirmed outside the gaming machine, is executed. Further, in S32, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, a drive command is issued to the solenoid circuit 59. The solenoid circuit 59 drives the solenoids 16 and 26 in response to a drive command in order to open or close the starting electric accessory 14a or the opening / closing plate 20 or switch the game ball passage in the special winning opening. To do. Thereafter, in S33, the contents of the register are restored, and in S34, the interrupt permission state is set.

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 msec. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set. It may be executed in the main process.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a special symbol process executed by the game control microcomputer 53.

  The special symbol process shown in FIG. 13 is a specific process of step S24 in the flowchart of FIG. In S311, the CPU 56 performs a variation shortening timer subtraction process when performing the special symbol process. In S312, it is determined whether or not the start port switch 17 for detecting that a hitting ball has been won in the start winning port 14 provided in the game board 6 is ON. If the start opening switch 17 is turned on, that is, if a start winning that causes the hitting ball to win the starting winning opening 14 has occurred, in S313, after the start opening switch passing process is performed, S300 ~ One of the processes in S308 is performed. The variation shortening timer is a timer for setting the variation time when the variation time of the special symbol is shortened.

  In S300, special symbol normal processing is performed. In the special symbol normal process, the process waits until the variable symbol variable display can be started. When the special symbol variable display can be started, the start winning memory number is confirmed. If the start winning memorization number is not 0, it is determined whether or not to win the game as a result of variable display of special symbols. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to S301 (special symbol stop symbol setting process).

  In S301, a special symbol stop symbol setting process is performed. In the special symbol stop symbol setting process, the stop symbol after the variable display of the special symbol is determined. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to S302 (variation pattern setting process).

  In S302, a variation pattern setting process is performed. In the variation pattern setting process, a variation pattern (variable display mode) of variable display of the special symbol is determined according to the value of R4. The final stop symbol and information for instructing the variation mode (variation pattern) are transmitted to the display control microcomputer 81 mounted on the display control board 80. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to S303 (special symbol variation processing).

  In S303, special symbol variation processing is performed. In the special symbol variation process, when a predetermined time elapses, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to S304 (special symbol stop process).

  In S304, special symbol stop processing is performed. In the special symbol stop process, control is performed so that all symbols displayed in the special symbol display unit 9 are stopped and displayed. Specifically, it is set to a state in which a display control command indicating special symbol stop is transmitted. Then, when the stop symbol is a combination of the jackpot symbol, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to S305 (pre-winner pre-opening process). Otherwise, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to S300.

  In S305, a special winning opening opening process is performed. In the big prize opening start process, the control for opening the big prize opening is started. Specifically, the counter and the flag are initialized, and the solenoid 26 is driven to open the special winning opening. Also, the process timer sets the execution time of the big prize opening opening process and sets the big hit flag. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to S306 (processing for opening a special prize opening).

  In S306, a special winning opening opening process is performed. In the special prize opening opening process, control for transmitting a display control command for the special prize round display to the display control microcomputer 81 mounted on the display control board 80 and a process for confirming that the closing condition for the special prize opening is satisfied. Etc. If the closing condition for the last big prize opening is satisfied, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to S307 (specific area valid time process).

  In S307, specific winning area valid time processing is performed. In the specific winning area valid time process, the presence / absence of passing through the V count switch 28 is monitored, and a process of confirming that the big hit gaming state continuation condition is satisfied is performed. If the condition for continuation of the big hit gaming state is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to S305 (pre-opening process for big winning opening). In addition, when the big hit gaming state continuation condition is not satisfied within a predetermined effective time or when all rounds are finished, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is shifted to S308 (big hit end processing). Update as follows.

  A jackpot end process is performed through S308. In the big hit end process, control is performed to cause the display control board 80 to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. The internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to S300 (special symbol normal processing).

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a start port switch passing process that is executed when a start winning is generated.

  In the start port switch passing process, first, in S41, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the start winning memorized number has reached 4, which is the maximum value. If the starting winning memory number has not reached 4, the starting winning memory number is increased by 1 in S42, and each random number value such as a big hit determination random number is extracted in S43 and corresponds to the starting winning memory number value. Stored in the saved area (special symbol determination buffer). Note that the extraction of random numbers means that a count value is read from a random counter for generating a random number, and the read count value is used as a random value. In S44, a timer for determining whether or not to shorten the variation time is set.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the special symbol normal process in the special symbol process.

  In the special symbol normal process, first, in S51, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the special symbol can be changed (for example, when the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating S300). to decide. If it is determined that the change can be started, the value of the start winning memorized number is confirmed in S52. Specifically, the count value of the start winning counter is confirmed. The case where the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300 is a case where the special symbol variable display is not performed in the special symbol display unit 9 and the game is not in the big hit game.

  If the starting winning memory number is not 0, after a notice setting process is performed in S53, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = 1 is read in S54, and the random number in the RAM 55 is read. In addition to storing in the buffer area, in S55, the value of the number of start winning prizes is reduced by 1 and the contents of each storage area are shifted. That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the start winning memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in the storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = n−1.

  Next, in S56, the CPU 56 reads the big hit determination random number from the random number storage buffer, and in S57, executes the big hit determination module. If it is determined in S58 that the game is a big hit, in S59, the CPU 56 sets a big win flag, and in S60, the value of the special symbol process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop symbol setting process.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a notice setting process in the special symbol diagram normal process.
First, in S61, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the gaming state is being changed. Since the notice effect is not performed during the certainty change, if it is determined that the certainty change is being made, this subroutine program immediately ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no certain change, it is determined in S62 whether or not the number of reserved memories is two or more. When it is determined that the number of reserved memories is not 2 or more, the subroutine program is immediately terminated because no notice effect is performed.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of stored memories is 2 or more, in S63, a process of setting the value of the start winning counter as the number of big hit determinations is performed. That is, it is set so that the big hit is determined by the number of start winning memories. In S64, the CPU 56 sets a test number counter for counting the number of start memory jackpot determinations to 0, and in S65, a process of adding 1 to the test number counter is performed. In S66, a process of reading a random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the start winning memorized number K is performed. At this stage, since K is 1, the random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the start memory number 1 is read. In S67, a jackpot determination process is performed using the read random number value. When it is determined in S68 that the result of the big hit determination in S67 is a big hit, in S79, it is determined whether or not a probable big hit is obtained. If it is determined that it is a probable big hit, it is set in S80 that the predictive pattern table for probable big hit is used. Is done. If it is determined in S68 that a big hit is not made, a process of subtracting 1 from the number of big hits is performed in S69. In S70, it is determined whether or not the number of jackpot determinations is 0. If it is determined that the number is not 0, the process returns to S65 and the same processing is repeated. For example, when the number of starting memories is three, the processes of S65 to S70 are repeated up to three times.

  If there is no start memory indicating a big hit in the start memory in the processes of S65 to S70, a process of determining whether or not there is a start memory indicating a reach state in the start memory is performed in the processes after S71. . In S71, processing for setting the value of the start winning counter as the reach determination number is performed. In other words, the reach is determined by the number of start winning memories. In S72, the CPU 56 sets the inspection number counter to 0, and in S73, a process of adding 1 to the inspection number counter is performed. In S74, a process of reading a random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the start winning memorized number K is performed. At this stage, since K is 1, the random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the start memory number 1 is read. In S75, reach determination processing is performed using the read random number value. In S76, when it is determined that the reach determination result in S75 is the reach state, in S82, the use of the reach-off notice pattern table is set. When it is determined in S76 that the reach state is not reached, a process of subtracting 1 from the reach determination number is performed in S77. In S78, it is determined whether or not the reach determination count is 0. If it is determined that the reach determination count is not 0, the process returns to S73 and the same processing is repeated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the number of reach determinations is 0, none of the read random number values cause a probability variation big hit, big hit, or reach state, and therefore, a loss notice pattern table is used in S83. Is set.

  In S84, a random value is extracted from R6 (for notice determination). In S85, when the random value extracted from R6 is equal to the notice determination value, it is decided to perform the notice effect, and in S86, a process of setting the value of the inspection number counter in the notice object counter is performed. The notice target counter indicates which LED of the start memory display 18 is to be displayed in a special display mode. In S87, a random value is extracted from R7 (for determining the notice pattern), and in S88, a notice pattern is determined according to the extracted random value. In S89, a notice pattern command is set, and this subroutine program ends.

  In this way, when the number of start memories is two or more, it is determined whether or not the notice effect is to be performed. Therefore, when the start memory is not displayed on the start memory display 18, a big hit is generated. It is possible to prevent an effect to be notified in advance.

  Further, even if there is no start memory that is a big hit in the start memories, if there is a start memory that generates a reach state, the start memory display 18 performs an effect of notifying the occurrence of the big hit. The occurrence frequency of the notice is increased, and the player's expectation can be improved.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the big hit determination module. In the big hit determination process, in S91, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the state at that time is in the probability change, and if in the probability change, in S92, in the big hit determination table shown in FIG. Decide to use a table with high probability. If the probability change is not in progress, it is determined in S93 to use the table at the low probability in the jackpot determination table.

  Then, in S94, a process of comparing the count value extracted from R1 (for big hit determination) with the big hit decision value in the big hit decision table is performed. If it is determined in S95 that the count value extracted from R1 (for jackpot determination) matches the jackpot determination value, it is determined in S96 that the display result is a jackpot, and from R1 (for jackpot determination) If the extracted count value does not match the jackpot decision value, it is determined in S97 that the display result is not a jackpot.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the reach determination module. In the reach determination process, in S101, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the state at that time is in the probability change, and if in the probability change, in the reach state determination table shown in FIG. 7B in S102. Decide to use a table with a high probability of. If the probability change is not in progress, it is determined in S103 that the table at the low probability in the reach state determination table is used.

  Then, in S104, a process of comparing the count value extracted from R5 (for reach determination) with the reach determination value of the reach state determination table is performed. In S105, when it is determined that the count value extracted from R5 (for reach determination) matches the reach state determination value, in S106, it is determined to reach the reach state and extracted from R5 (for reach determination). If it is determined that the counted value does not match the reach state determination value, it is determined in S107 that the reach state is not set.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a special symbol stop symbol setting process in the special symbol process process.

  In the special symbol stop symbol setting process, first, in S111, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is ON. When the big hit flag is ON, in S112, the big hit symbol is determined according to the count value of R3 (for big hit symbol determination) read in S54. In this embodiment, each symbol of the symbol number set in the jackpot symbol table corresponding to the count value of R3 (for jackpot symbol determination) is determined as a jackpot symbol. In the jackpot symbol table, a special symbol of the left variable display unit, a special symbol of the middle variable display unit, and a symbol number of the special symbol of the right variable display unit corresponding to each of a plurality of types of jackpot symbol combinations are set. In S113, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process.

  On the other hand, if the big hit flag is not ON, R5 (for reach determination) stored in S43 is read in S114, and in S115, the CPU 56 executes a reach determination module. If it is determined in S116 that the reach state has been set as a result of the processing in S115, a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the left variable display portion and the right variable display portion is determined in S117 according to the count value of R2-1. The special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the middle variable display portion is determined according to the value of R2-2. Here, when the determined special symbol of the middle variable display portion matches the special symbol of the left variable display portion and the right variable display portion, the random number value corresponding to the special symbol of the middle variable display portion is “1”. As a special symbol for stopping and displaying the corresponding special symbol on the middle variable display unit, it is made not to match the jackpot symbol. Then, the process proceeds to S113.

  If it is determined in S116 that the reach state is not set, a stop symbol in the case of a loss is determined in S118. Specifically, a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the left variable display unit is determined according to the value read in S54, that is, the extracted count value of R2-1, and the middle variable display unit is determined according to the count value of R2-2. The special symbol to be stopped and displayed is determined, and the special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the right variable display unit is determined according to the count value of R2-3. Here, when the special symbols to be stopped and displayed on the left variable display portion and the right variable display portion are matched, the special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the right variable display portion is shifted by one symbol so that it does not become a reach state. To. Then, the process proceeds to S113. In S112, when the probability variation big hit symbol is determined, a probability variation flag indicating that the game goes to the probability variation state after the big hit game ends is set.

  Next, a transmission method of control commands from the game control board 131 to the display control board 80 will be described.

  FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing signal lines of a display control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 53 mounted on the game control board 131 to the display control microcomputer 800 mounted on the display control board 80.

  As shown in FIG. 20, in this embodiment, the display control command is transmitted from the game control board 131 to the display control board 80 through eight signal lines of display control signals CD0 to CD7. A signal line for a display control INT signal for transmitting a strobe signal (display control INT signal) is also wired between the game control board 131 and the display control board 80. FIG. 20 shows an example of the display control command, but control commands to other electrical component control boards are also transmitted through eight signal lines and one INT signal signal line.

  The display control microcomputer 800 mounted on the display control board 80 receives a special symbol display according to the contents shown when the display control command is received from the game control microcomputer 53 mounted on the game control board 131. The display state of the unit 9 and the normal symbol display 10 is changed. Note that display control commands other than the example shown in FIG. 22 are also transmitted from the game control microcomputer 53 mounted on the game control board 131 to the display control microcomputer 800 mounted on the display control board 80.

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

  As shown in FIG. 21, 8-bit display control command data of the display control command is output in synchronization with the display control INT signal. The display control microcomputer 800 mounted on the display control board 80 detects that the display control INT signal has risen, and starts a 1-byte data capturing process through an interrupt process. Accordingly, when viewed from the display control microcomputer 800 mounted on the display control board 80, the display control INT signal corresponds to a capture signal that triggers capture of display control command data.

  The display control command is transmitted only once so that the display control microcomputer 800 mounted on the display control board 80 can recognize the display control command. In this example, “recognizable” means that the level of the display control INT signal changes, and “recognizable transmission only once” means that, for example, each of the first and second bytes of display control command data is transmitted. Accordingly, the display control INT signal is output in a pulse shape (rectangular wave shape) only once. Note that the display control INT signal may have a polarity opposite to that shown in FIG.

  FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of a display control command transmitted to the display control microcomputer 800 mounted on the display control board 80.

  In the example shown in FIG. 22, commands 8000 (H) to 8010 (H) are display control commands for designating a special symbol variation pattern in the special symbol display unit 9 that variably displays the special symbols. Note that a command for specifying a variation pattern (variation pattern command) also serves as a variation start instruction.

  The command 88XX (H) (X = any value of 4 bits) is a display control command related to a normal symbol variation pattern. The command 89XX (H) is a display control command for designating turning on and off the normal symbol. Command 8A00 (H) is a display control command for instructing stop of variable display of normal symbols.

  The command 90XX (H) is a display control command for designating a lighting pattern of the start memory display 18.

  Commands 91XX (H), 92XX (H), and 93XX (H) are display control commands for designating stop symbols for the left variable display portion, middle variable display portion, and right variable display portion of special symbols. A symbol number is set in “XX”. Command A000 (H) is a display control command for instructing stop of variable symbol special display. The command BXXX (H) is a display control command transmitted from the start of the big hit game to the end of the big hit game. Commands C000 (H) to EXXXX (H) are display control commands relating to the display state of the special symbol variation.

  The command C3XX (H) is a determination result command that is transmitted when a start prize is generated. C300 (H) is a display control command for specifying a winning prize (exclusion prize specifying command), C301 (H) is a display control command for specifying a winning prize (reach prize specifying command), and C302 (H) is A jackpot winning designation display control command (big jackpot winning designation command), and C303 (H) is a specific jackpot winning designation display control command (specific jackpot winning designation command). The command D000 (H) is a display control command for designating a customer waiting demonstration.

  The command E0XX (H) is a display control command that indicates the number of start memory displays 18 that change the display color in the display area that displays the start winning memory number in the special symbol display unit 9. For example, the display control microcomputer 800 mounted on the display control board 80 changes the display color of the number of start memory displays 18 designated by “XX (H)” among the start memory displays 18. That is, the command E0XX (H) is a command for instructing control of a display area provided for informing information on the number of starting memories. It should be noted that the command related to the number of start memory indicators 18 for changing the display color may be configured to indicate increase / decrease in the number of areas for changing the display color. In the first embodiment, since the upper limit value of the start winning memory is “4”, “XX” is any one of 0-4.

  The command E400 (H) is a command transmitted when the high probability state is changed to the low probability state, and the command E401 (H) is transmitted when the low probability state is changed to the high probability state. It is a command.

  When the display control microcomputer 800 mounted on the display control board 80 receives the above-described display control command from the game control microcomputer 53 mounted on the game control board 131, the display control microcomputer 800 is specially adapted according to the contents shown in FIG. The display state of the symbol display unit 9 and the normal symbol display 10 is changed.

  The lamp control command and the sound control command having the same form as the display control command are also transmitted to the microcomputer mounted on the lamp control board 135 and the microcomputer mounted on the sound control board 170. The microcomputer mounted on the lamp control board 135 changes the display state of the lamp / LED when it receives the lamp control command, and the microcomputer mounted on the sound control board 170 receives the sound control command from the speaker 41. Control to change the sound output mode is performed.

  Moreover, the variable display start designation command indicating the start of variable display and the variable display mode designation command capable of specifying the variable display mode are realized by the display control command for specifying the variation pattern, and the identification information for specifying the display result of the identification information. The designation command is realized by the display control command of the left special symbol designation, the middle special symbol designation, and the right special symbol designation, and the variable display end designation command indicating the end of the variable display is realized by the special symbol stop display control command. Yes. In this embodiment, the display control command for specifying the variation pattern is also used as a variable display start specifying command for indicating the start of variable display and a variable display mode specifying command for specifying the variable display mode. The designation command and the variable display mode designation command that can specify the variable display mode may be separated.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating main processing executed by the display control CPU 101.

  In the main process, first, an initialization process for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, initializing a 2 msec timer for determining the start interval of display control, and the like is performed by Sub1. Thereafter, in Sub2, the display control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for confirming monitoring of the timer interrupt flag. As shown in FIG. 24, when a timer interrupt occurs, in Sub11, the display control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the display control CPU 101 clears the flag through Sub3 and executes the following display control process.

  In this embodiment, the timer interrupt takes every 2 msec. That is, the display control process is started every 2 msec. In this embodiment, only the flag is set in the timer interrupt process, and the specific display control process is executed in the main process. However, the display control process may be executed in the timer interrupt process.

  In the display control process, in Sub4, the display control CPU 101 analyzes the received display control command (command analysis process). Next, in Sub5, the display control CPU 101 performs display control process processing. In the display control process process, a process corresponding to the current control state is selected and executed from among the processes corresponding to the control state. And in Sub6, the process which updates a notice random number counter is performed. Thereafter, the process returns to the process of checking the Sub2 timer interrupt flag.

Next, display control command reception processing from the game control board 131 will be described.
25 and 26 are flowcharts showing command analysis processing.

  The display control command received from the game control microcomputer 53 mounted on the game control board 131 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the display control CPU 101 is stored in the command reception buffer. Check the contents of the command.

  In the command analysis process, first, in Sub21, the display control CPU 101 checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer. Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. In Sub22, when the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the display control CPU 101 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer. When read, the value of the read pointer is incremented by “1”.

  When it is determined in Sub23 that the received display control command is a display control command (91XX (H)) for designating the left special symbol, in Sub24, the display control CPU 101 displays the left variable display indicated by “XX”. The data indicating the special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the part is stored in the left special symbol storage area in the RAM 101a. If it is determined in Sub25 that the received display control command is a display control command (92XX (H)) with medium special symbol designation, in Sub26, the display control CPU 101 indicates that the display control command 101 is indicated by “XX”. Data indicating the special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the variable display unit is stored in the middle special symbol storage area in the RAM 101a. If it is determined in Sub 27 that the received display control command is the right special symbol designation display control command (93XX (H)), in Sub 28 the display control CPU 101 determines that the right display indicated by “XX”. Data indicating the special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the variable display unit is stored in the right special symbol storage area in the RAM 101a.

  If it is determined in Sub29 that the received display control command is a variation pattern designation display control command, in Sub30, the display control CPU 101 stores the EXT data of the command in the variation pattern data storage area. In Sub31, the fluctuation pattern reception flag is set.

  If it is determined in Sub32 that the received display control command is a display control command for designating the start prize memory number, in Sub33, the display control CPU 101 displays the start prize memory number in the start prize number storage area in the RAM 101a. Update to the number specified by the control command. In Sub34, the number of start memory indicators 18 is updated.

  When it is determined in Sub35 that the received display control command is a notice pattern designation command (command 90XX (H) in FIG. 22), in Sub36, the display control CPU 101 stores the notice pattern in the RAM 101a, and provides a notice. Since it is determined that the pattern designation command has been received, processing for setting a notice flag is performed in Sub37. In Sub38, it is determined what the received command is, and the corresponding flag is set, and the process returns to Sub21.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the display control process in the main process.
In the display control process process, any one of Sub 300 to Sub 305 is performed according to the value of the display control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  In Sub300, a variation pattern command reception waiting process is performed. It is confirmed whether or not a display control command (variation pattern command) capable of specifying the variation time is received by the command reception interrupt process. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a flag (variation pattern reception flag) indicating that the variation pattern command has been received is set. The variation pattern reception flag is set when it is confirmed by command analysis processing that a variation pattern designation display control command has been received.

  In Sub301, all symbol variation start processing is performed. Control to start the special symbol variation.

  In Sub 302, a process during symbol variation is performed. The switching timing of each fluctuation state (fluctuation speed) constituting the fluctuation pattern is controlled, and the end of the fluctuation time is monitored. Further, stop control of special symbols on the left variable display portion and the right variable display portion is performed.

  In Sub 303, all symbol stop waiting processing is performed. If a display control command for instructing symbol stop (a special symbol stop display control command) is received at the end of the variation time, control is performed to stop the symbol variation and display the stop symbol (determined symbol).

  In Sub304, a big hit display process is performed. After the fluctuation time is over, the probability variation jackpot display or jackpot display is controlled.

  In Sub305, the big hit game processing is performed. Control during the jackpot game. For example, when a display control command for display before opening the big winning opening or display when opening the big winning opening is received, display control of the number of rounds is performed.

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process in the display control process.

  In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, in Sub41, the display control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern reception flag is set. If it is set, the flag is reset in Sub42. In Sub43, the value of the display control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the all symbol variation start process.

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing all symbol variation start processing in the display control process.

  In the symbol variation start process, first, in Sub51, it is determined whether or not the received variation pattern is accompanied by a reach state. If the received variation pattern is accompanied by the reach state, it is determined in Sub52 whether or not the notice flag is on. If it is determined that the notice flag is on, processing for selecting a change pattern table with notice is performed in Sub 53. When the reach state is generated during variable display due to the selection of the variation pattern with a notice in Sub 53, the shielding member 21b is operated, and the LED of the start memory display 18 is displayed in a special display mode, and the big hit The notice effect for the occurrence of If it is determined in Sub52 that the notice flag is not on, processing for selecting a variation pattern to be used is performed in Sub54. Thereafter, in Sub55, a process of clearing the notice flag is performed. In Sub56, the variation time timer is started, and in Sub57, the value of the display control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the process during symbol variation.

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a process during symbol variation in the display control process.

  In Sub 61, when the process timer times out, the display control CPU 101 switches display control execution data in Sub 62. That is, in the process data, the next set process timer is started, and the VDP 103 is controlled according to the contents of the display control execution data set next.

  If it is determined in Sub63 that the variable time timer has timed out, a monitoring timer for monitoring the reception of the special symbol stop display control command is started in Sub64, and all the values of the display control process flag are set in Sub65. Set a value corresponding to the symbol stop waiting process.

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the all symbol stop waiting process in the display control process.

  In the symbol stop waiting process, in Sub 71, the display control CPU 101 determines whether or not a display control command (special symbol stop display control command) for instructing stop of all symbols has been received. If a display control command for instructing stop of all symbols has been received, in Sbu72, control is performed to stop the symbols at the stored stop symbol.

  In Sub75, when it is determined that the display result derived and displayed in Sub72 is a jackpot symbol, in Sub76, the display control CPU 101 sets the value of the display control process flag to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process. In Sub75, when it is determined that the display result derived and displayed in Sub72 is not a jackpot symbol (when an outlier symbol is displayed), in Sub77, the display control CPU 101 waits for the reception of the variation pattern command in Sub77. Set to a value corresponding to the process.

  If a display control command for designating all symbols to be stopped has not been received, it is confirmed in Sub 73 whether the monitoring timer has timed out. If time-out occurs, it is determined that some abnormality has occurred, and in Sub 74, control is performed to display an error screen on the special symbol display unit 9. And it transfers to Sub75.

  FIG. 32 is a flowchart for explaining the jackpot display process in the display control process.

  In the jackpot display process, first, in Sub81, it is determined whether or not the jackpot is a probability variation jackpot accompanied by a probability variation state. If it is determined at Sub81 that the big hit is a probable big hit, a display indicating that the big win is a probable big hit is made at Sub82 and then the process proceeds to Sub84. If it is determined in Sub81 that the probability is not big hit, a display indicating that it is a normal big hit is made in Sub83, and the flow proceeds to Sub84. In Sub84, the value of the display process flag is set to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing.

  FIG. 33 is a flowchart for explaining the big hit game processing in the display control process.

  In the big hit game processing, first, in Sub91, it is determined whether or not it is time to end the big hit game. Note that the jackpot game is a period in which the game is in a specific game state. When it is determined that it is time to end the big hit game, a display indicating the end of the big hit is performed in Sub92. Thereafter, in Sub93, the value of the display process flag is set to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process.

Next, modifications and feature points of the present embodiment described above are listed below.
(1) In the above-described embodiment, when the reach state occurs during variable display, the shielding member 21a and the shielding member 21b are operated to perform the notice effect. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the variable display is started in each variable display unit, the shielding member 21a and the shielding member 21b may be operated to perform a notice effect. As a result, a notice effect is performed each time variable display is started, and the notice effect is generated more frequently than when the notice effect is performed only when the reach state occurs, and the player's expectation is improved. be able to.

(2) The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes a variable display device (variable display device 8) that variably starts a plurality of types of identification information (special symbols) that can be identified based on the establishment of a predetermined variable start condition, A gaming machine that can be controlled to a specific gaming state (hit state) that is advantageous to the player when the display result of the variable display device becomes a predetermined specific display result (for example, a doublet such as “333”). (Pachinko machine 1)
On-hold data storage means (RAM55, S43) having a plurality of storage areas for storing on-hold data indicating whether or not the display result of the variable display device is to be the specific display result when the variable start condition is satisfied. )When,
Variable display control means (display control) for performing variable display control for causing the variable display device to display and display a display result corresponding to the hold data stored in one storage area of the plurality of storage areas of the hold data storage means Microcomputer 800, FIG. 29, FIG. 30, FIG. 31),
The hold data used for deriving and displaying the display result of the variable display device from the hold data storage means is erased, and new hold data is stored in the hold data storage means when the variable start condition is satisfied Holding data updating means (game control microcomputer 53, S55) to be performed;
A number of display units corresponding to the number of reserved data stored in the reserved storage means is set to a predetermined display mode, whereby a number of reserved data display unit (starting storage display 18) for displaying the number of reserved data;
Shielding members (shielding member 21a in the shape of a dinosaur face, shielding member 21b in the shape of the lower jaw of a dinosaur) for shielding the display of the reserved data number display unit;
Shielding member control means for controlling the shielding member to change the display of the reserved data number display section between a shielded state and a non-shielded non-shielded state (display control microcomputer 800; shielded state is shown in FIG. 4). (See (A-4) in FIG. 4 and (A-1) to (A-3) and (A-5) in FIG. 4 for the non-shielding state)),
When there is holding data indicating that the display result of the variable display device is the specific display result among the holding data stored in the holding storage means, the display unit corresponding to the holding data is Special display mode determining means (for game control) for determining whether or not a special display mode (“blue flashing 1”, “blue flashing 2”, “blue lighting”, “red lighting”) different from the predetermined display mode is used. Microcomputer 53, S81, S84, S85),
In accordance with the determination by the special display mode determination means, the display unit corresponding to the hold data in which the display result of the plurality of types of identification information becomes the specific display result in the non-shielding state is set as the special display mode. Notice means for notifying that a specific display result is obtained (microcomputer 800 for display control, (A-5) in FIG. 4),
The notice means controls the display unit corresponding to the hold data whose display result of the variable display device is the specific display result when the hold data number display unit is in the shielded state to the special display mode. The notice is started when the display of the reserved data number display section is changed from the shielded state to the non-shielded state (change from (A-4) to (A-5) in FIG. 4). (See FIG. 5).

  (3) The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

It is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine and a card unit installed correspondingly. It is a block diagram which shows an example of the circuit structure in a game control board. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structure in a display control board with LCD which implement | achieves an image display. It is the screen figure which showed the mode of the notice effect produced using a shielding member. It is a figure for demonstrating the timing which LED of a starting memory | storage indicator switches from a predetermined display mode to a special display mode. It is explanatory drawing explaining various random counters. It is a figure which shows the table for various determinations. It is a figure which shows the notification pattern determination table for determining the notification pattern at the time of performing a notification effect. It is a figure for demonstrating the appearance rate of each notice pattern. It is the figure which showed the jackpot appearance rate in each notice pattern, the whole appearance rate, and jackpot reliability. It is a flowchart which shows the game control main process performed with the microcomputer for game control. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interruption process performed with the microcomputer for game control. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol process process performed with the microcomputer for game control. It is a flowchart which shows the start port switch passage process performed when a start winning prize arises. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol normal process in a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows the notice setting process in a special symbol figure normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit determination module. It is a flowchart which shows a reach determination module. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol stop symbol setting process in a special symbol process process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the signal line of the display control command transmitted to the microcomputer for display control mounted in the display control board from the microcomputer for game control mounted in the game control board. It is a timing chart showing the relationship between an 8-bit control signal and an INT signal constituting a control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of the display control command transmitted to the microcomputer for display control mounted in the display control board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU for display control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a timer interruption process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows the display control process process in a main process. It is a flowchart which shows the variation pattern command reception waiting process in a display control process process. It is a flowchart which shows the whole symbol change start process in a display control process process. It is a flowchart which shows the process during symbol change in a display control process process. It is a flowchart which shows the all symbol stop waiting process in a display control process process. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the jackpot display process in a display control process process. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the process during a big hit game in a display control process process.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine, 8 Variable display device, 9 Special symbol display part, 10 Normal symbol display, 12 Passage port, 12a Gate switch, 14 Start port, 15 Pass memory indicator, 17 Start port switch, 18 Start memory indicator , 19 Variable winning ball apparatus, 21a shielding member, 21b shielding member, 21c solenoid, 24 winning opening, 53 game control microcomputer, 81 display control microcomputer.

Claims (1)

A variable display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information, each of which can be identified based on the establishment of a predetermined starting condition, and a display result of the variable display device is a predetermined specific display result A gaming machine that can be controlled to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player when
Display result determining means for determining whether or not to set the display result of the variable display device as the specific display result based on establishment of a variable display start condition;
Variable display control means for performing variable display control for deriving and displaying a display result according to the display result determining means after starting variable display of the plurality of types of identification information in the variable display device;
Hold storage means for storing the establishment of the start condition as hold data until the variable display can be started based on the establishment of the variable display start condition when the variable display cannot be started immediately even if the start condition is established;
A hold data number display unit for informing the number of hold data by performing a hold display in a predetermined display mode by a number corresponding to the number of hold data stored in the hold storage means;
A shielding member for shielding the hold display of the hold data number display section;
A shielding member control means for controlling the shielding member to change the on-hold display of the on-hold data count display section between a shielded state in which it is shielded and a non-shielded state in which it is not shielded;
When there is pending data in which the display result of the variable display device becomes the specific display result among the pending data stored in the pending storage means, a pending display corresponding to the pending data is displayed in the predetermined display. A gaming machine comprising: special display mode determining means for determining whether or not to make a special display mode different from the mode.

Images