JP2008245773A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To further improve playing potentialities in addition to a higher operation rate of a game machine utilizing the total reservation counts. <P>SOLUTION: In a game machine equipped with the first special figure display device for variably displaying the first special figures and the second special figure display device for variably displaying the second special figures, a microcomputer 560 for game control varies the ratio at which the generation of a ready-to-win mode during the variable display is determined when no jackpot is won according to the total reservation memory counts as the sum of the first and second reservation memory counts. Even when the total reservation memory counts are the same in the execution of the variable display of the first special figures as those in the execution of that of the second special figures, the ratio of determining the generation of the ready-to-win mode is varied. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention starts the variable display of the first identification information and derives and displays the display result based on the fact that the first execution condition of the variable display based on the winning of the first start opening is established. A second variable for starting the variable display of the second identification information and deriving and displaying the display result based on the display means and the second execution condition of the variable display based on the winning of the second start opening being established The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine that has a display means and shifts to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player when the specific display result is derived and displayed on either the first variable display means or the second variable display means. .

  As a gaming machine, a game ball, which is a game medium, is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game ball wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Further, a variable display unit capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, and when the display result of the variable display of the identification information in the variable display unit becomes a specific display result, the gaming state (game) The state of the machine, more specifically, the state in which the gaming machine is controlled) is configured to give a predetermined game value to the player.

  The game value is the right that the state of the variable winning ball apparatus provided in the gaming area of the gaming machine becomes advantageous for a player who is easy to win, and the right for becoming advantageous for a player. In other words, or a condition for winning a prize ball is easily established.

  In a pachinko machine, a specific display mode determined in advance is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display of a special symbol (identification information) that is started in the variable display unit based on the winning of a game ball at the start winning opening. If this happens, a “big hit” will occur. Note that the derivation display is to stop and display a symbol (excluding stop before so-called re-variation). When the big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state where the hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. And the number of times of opening the special winning opening is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Hereinafter, the opening period of each special winning opening may be referred to as a round.

  In the variable display section, the symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) continue for a predetermined time and stop, swing, There is a possibility that a big hit will occur before the final result is displayed due to the state of scaling or deformation, or multiple symbols changing synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol being switched An effect performed in a continuing state (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. Then, when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the variable display device is not a specific display result, it becomes “out of” and the variability display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  Among such gaming machines, there is a gaming machine provided with two variable displays that variably display special symbols (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In each variable display, when the variable display start condition corresponding to the variable display is satisfied, the variable display of the special symbol is started. In addition, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, the number of game balls won at the first start winning opening satisfying the variation start execution condition in the first variable indicator, and still as an opportunity to start the variation. The number of game balls won at the second start winning opening that satisfies the first hold storage indicating the number not used and the change start execution condition in the second variable indicator, and as a trigger for the start of change yet When the sum of the number of storages with the second reserved storage indicating the number not being used (total number of reservations) exceeds a predetermined number, the variation time of the special symbol is shortened. When the variable symbol special display is started, the number of reserved memories is reduced by one.

JP 2007-322 A (paragraph 0080)

  In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, when the total number of reservations exceeds a predetermined number, the variation time of the special symbol is shortened, so that the total number of reservations is consumed earlier (to be used as an opportunity to start the change). . An upper limit is set for the total number of holds, and players generally tend to suspend games when the total number of holds reaches the upper limit. Specifically, when the total number of reservations reaches the upper limit, the game balls tend to be stopped. Therefore, by quickly digesting the total number of reservations, it is possible to shorten the game interruption period and improve the operating rate of the gaming machine.

  However, the game content does not change even if the gaming machine is operated. When using the total number of reserves, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can be more accepted by the player if it can be used to change the game content, not just to improve the operating rate.

  In view of the above, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can further improve the gaming performance in addition to the effect of improving the operating rate of the gaming machine by using the total number of reservations.

  The gaming machine according to the present invention has the first identification information (for example, the first identification information) based on the fact that a predetermined variable display first execution condition (for example, the winning of a game ball to the first start winning opening 13) is established. First variable display means (for example, the first special symbol display device 8a) for starting the variable display of the special symbol and deriving and displaying the display result, and a second execution condition for the predetermined variable display (for example, the second start) A second variable display means (for example, a second variable display means) for starting the variable display of the second identification information (for example, the second special symbol) and deriving and displaying the display result on the basis that the winning of the game ball to the winning port 14 is established. A special game state that is advantageous to the player when a specific display result (for example, a jackpot symbol) is derived and displayed on either the first variable display means or the second variable display means. (For example, jackpot play An effect display device that performs variable display of effect identification information (for example, effect symbol (decorative symbol)) corresponding to variable display in the first variable display means or the second variable display means. The display control of the effect display device is performed based on (for example, the effect display male value 9), the game control means for controlling the progress of the game (for example, the game control microcomputer 560), and the command transmitted by the game control means. Effect control means (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100), and the game control means variably displays the first identification information in the first variable display means and variably displays the second identification information in the second variable display means. Display specifying means (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, steps S77, S47) And the variable display of the identification information of the first variable display means or the second variable display means when the variable display of the identification information of the first variable display means or the second variable display means is started. Predetermining means for determining whether or not to change the display result to a specific display result (for example, the part that executes the process of step S61 in the game control microcomputer 560) and the predetermining means convert the display result into the specific display result When it is decided not to do so, reach determination means for determining whether or not to generate a reach mode based on the effect identification information in the effect display device during execution of variable display (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, step S100, The part of executing the processing of S102) and the end of the variable display of the identification information based on the determination result of the pre-determining means Variable display time determining means for determining a variable display time that is a time until time (for example, a part for executing the processes of steps S242 to S255, S258, S268, S271 to S285, and step S101 in the game control microcomputer 560) ) And the total number of established execution conditions and the number of established second execution conditions (for example, the value of the total pending storage number counter) is a predetermined total number (for example, “1” or “3”: FIG. 8). Reference number) Total number determination means for determining whether or not the above is satisfied (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, the processing of steps S243, S246, S251, S258, S261, S264, S271, S274, S277, and S281 is executed. In particular, the processing of steps S243, S258, and S271 (whether or not it is substantially “1” or more And the process of step S281 (determination process of whether or not “3” or more) ”, the reach determination means generates a reach mode according to the determination result of the total number determination means. While the ratio to be determined is changed, even when the total number determining means determines that the total number is equal to or greater than a predetermined total number (for example, “1” or “3”), the first variable display means Changing the ratio of determining that the reach mode is generated when the variable display of the first identification information is executed and when the variable display of the second identification information in the second variable display means is executed (see FIG. 8). Features.

  In the game area, a first start opening (for example, the first start winning opening 13) that establishes a first execution condition by winning a game medium, and a second start opening (for example, the second execution condition that satisfies a second execution condition by winning a game medium) , A first start winning opening 14) is provided, and the second starting opening is in either a first state where the game medium is easy to win (for example, an open state) or a second state where the winning is difficult to win (for example, a closed state). The reach determination means can execute the variable display of the second identification information in the second variable display means, compared to the variable determination of the first identification information in the first variable display means. Thus, the ratio of determining that the reach mode is generated may be lowered (see FIG. 8).

  In the game area, there are provided a first start port for establishing a first execution condition by winning a game medium and a second start port for establishing a second execution condition by winning a game medium. The medium can be set to either the first state in which the medium is easy to win or the second state in which it is difficult to win, and the reach determination unit executes the variable display of the second identification information in the second variable display unit. Compared to when variable display of the first identification information is performed by the single variable display means, the ratio of determining that the reach mode is to be generated may be increased (see FIG. 62).

  The reach determining means causes the reach mode when the total number is determined to be greater than or equal to the predetermined total number by the total number determining means than when the total number is determined to be less than the predetermined total number. You may comprise so that the ratio to determine may be made low (refer FIG. 8 and FIG. 62).

  The variable display time determining unit determines that the total number is less than the predetermined total number when the total number determining unit determines that the total number is equal to or greater than a predetermined total number (for example, “2” or “7”). It may be configured to perform control for shortening the variable display time as compared with the case where it is determined (see FIG. 9).

  On the condition that the variable display of the second identification information is not executed by the second variable display means, the variable display of the first identification information is executed by the first variable display means, and the first identification information is displayed by the first variable display means. The variable display executing means for executing the variable display of the second identification information by the second variable display means on the condition that the variable display is not executed (for example, the processing of steps S312 and S300 to S304 in the game control microcomputer 560). And the first counting means for counting the number of established first execution conditions (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, the process of step S214). And a second counting means for counting the number of established second execution conditions (for example, a game control microcomputer 560). The variable display executing means when the display result is derived and displayed on the first variable display means or when the display result is derived and displayed on the second variable display means. When the number of establishments counted by the first counting means and the number of establishments counted by the second counting means are not both 0, the variable display of the second identification information on the second variable display means is indicated by the first variable display means. It may be configured to execute with priority over the variable display of the identification information (see steps S50 and S51 in FIG. 23 and step S450 in FIG. 39).

  In the first aspect of the present invention, the reach determination means changes the ratio determined to generate the reach mode according to the determination result of the total number determination means, and the total number is determined by the total number determination means to be equal to or greater than the predetermined total number. Even when it is determined that the first identification information is variable, the first variable display means performs variable display of the first identification information and the second variable display means performs variable display of the second identification information. Since it is configured to change the ratio to be determined when the mode is generated, the variable display of the identification information is executed in the second variable display means or the variable display of the identification information is executed in the second variable display means The reach occurrence probability will change according to the difference between the two, and using the total number of establishments, in addition to the effect of improving the operating rate of the gaming machine, the effect of further improving the gameability It is possible to obtain.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, when the reach determination means executes variable display of the second identification information in the second variable display means, and executes variable display of the first identification information in the first variable display means. Compared to the second starting port that can establish more variable display execution conditions in the first state where the game medium is more likely to win because it is configured to reduce the rate at which it is determined that the reach mode will occur. By reducing the reach occurrence probability in the variable display, the operating rate of the gaming machine can be further improved. That is, generally, a player tends to refrain from playing a game (for example, launching a game ball) in a state where the total number of established games is large, and the variable display time with variable display is generally set to be long. Since the decrease in the number of formations is delayed, the total number of formations can be quickly reduced by lowering the reach occurrence probability, and the game using the game medium by the player can be promoted.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, when the reach determination means executes variable display of the second identification information in the second variable display means, and executes variable display of the first identification information in the first variable display means. Compared to the above, since the ratio for determining that the reach mode is to be generated is increased, relatively variable display is executed when the second start port is in the second state in which the game medium is difficult to win. By reducing the reach occurrence probability in the variable display corresponding to the first start port that can satisfy more conditions, the operating rate of the gaming machine can be further improved. In addition, when the second prize opening is changed from the second state in which the game medium is difficult to win to the first state in which the game medium is easy to win, the player can expect that the execution condition for the variable display of the identification information is easily established. However, since a reach mode is likely to occur in the variable display of the identification information corresponding to the winning at that time, it is possible to further increase the player's expectation.

  In the invention according to claim 4, when the reach determining means determines that the total number is less than the predetermined total number when the total number determining means determines that the total number is equal to or greater than the predetermined total number Since the ratio of determining that the reach mode is to be generated is lowered, the operating rate of the gaming machine can be improved by lowering the reach occurrence probability in a state where the total number of establishments is large.

  In the invention according to claim 5, when the variable display time determining means determines that the total number is not less than the predetermined total number by the total number determining means, it is determined that the total number is less than the predetermined total number. Since the control for shortening the variable display time is performed as compared with that at the time, the total number of establishment is reduced earlier, and the operating rate of the gaming machine can be further improved.

  In the invention described in claim 6, when the variable display execution means derives and displays the display result on the first variable display means or when the display result is derived and displayed on the second variable display means, the first counting means counts. When both the number of formations and the number of formations counted by the second counting means are not 0, the variable display of the second identification information on the second variable display means has priority over the variable display of the first identification information on the first variable display means. Therefore, in the gaming machine configured so that the second execution condition is easily satisfied, the number of execution conditions of the variable display can be efficiently digested.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1 that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as seen from the front.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be openable and closable. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) that can be opened and closed with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate (not shown) to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts (games to be described later) attached to them. A structure including the board 6).

  On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, there are provided an extra ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3 and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the hitting ball. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. In addition, a game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6 in which a game ball that has been struck can flow down.

  An effect display device 9 composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) is provided near the center of the game area 7. In the effect display device 9, variable display (fluctuation) of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) synchronized with the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is performed. Therefore, the effect display device 9 corresponds to a variable display device that variably displays an effect symbol (decoration symbol) as identification information. The effect display device 9 is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. When the first special symbol display 8a is executing variable display of the first special symbol, the effect control microcomputer causes the effect display device 9 to execute the effect display along with the variable display, and the second special symbol display 8a executes the second special display. When the variable display of the second special symbol is executed on the symbol display 8b, the effect display is executed by the effect display device in accordance with the variable display, so that it is possible to easily grasp the progress of the game.

  A first special symbol display (first variable display means) 8 a that variably displays a first special symbol as identification information is provided on the left side of the top of the effect display device 9 in the game board 6. In this embodiment, the first special symbol display 8a is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. In other words, the first special symbol display 8a is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. A second special symbol display (second variable display means) 8b that variably displays a second special symbol as identification information is provided on the right side of the upper portion of the effect display device 9 in the game board 6. The second special symbol display 8b is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the second special symbol display 8b is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9.

  In this embodiment, the type of the first special symbol and the type of the second special symbol are the same (for example, both 0 to 9), but the types may be different. Further, the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b may be configured to variably display numbers (or two-digit symbols) of, for example, 00 to 99, for example.

  Hereinafter, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as a special symbol, and the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator 8b may be collectively referred to as a special symbol indicator.

  For the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the first start condition or the second start condition, which is the variable display execution condition, is satisfied (for example, the game ball has the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening) 14), a variable display start condition (for example, when the number of reserved memories is not 0 and the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed) When the variable display time (fluctuation time) elapses, a display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Note that winning means that a game ball has entered a predetermined area such as a winning opening. Deriving and displaying the display result is to finally stop and display a symbol (an example of identification information). In this embodiment, the variable display start condition is established by prioritizing the winning to the second starting winning port 14 out of the winning to the first starting winning port 13 and the winning to the second starting winning port 14. . That is, if the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed, and if the big hit game is not executed, even if the first reserved memory number is not 0, the second The variable display of the second special symbol is continuously executed until the number of reserved memories becomes zero. It should be noted that the variable display start condition may be established in the order in which the start winnings are generated regardless of the winning at the first starting winning port 13 and the winning at the second starting winning port 14.

  The effect display device 9 is for decoration (effect) during the variable display time of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and during the variable display time of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b. The display design (decorative design) is variably displayed. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Synchronous means that the start time and end time of variable display are substantially the same (may be exactly the same) and the variable display period is substantially the same (may be exactly the same). Further, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a and when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display device 9 reminds the jackpot The combination of is stopped and displayed.

  A winning device having a first start winning port 13 is provided below the effect display device 9. The game ball won in the first start winning opening 13 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the first start opening switch 13a.

  A variable winning ball device 15 having a second starting winning port 14 through which a game ball can be won is provided below a winning device having a first starting winning port (first starting port) 13. The game ball that has won the second start winning opening (second start opening) 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the second start opening switch 14a. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the game ball can be awarded to the second starting winning port 14 (it is easier to start winning), which is advantageous for the player. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state, it is easier for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 than the first starting winning opening 13. In addition, in a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, the game ball does not win the second start winning opening 14. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the closed state, it may be configured that the winning is possible (that is, it is difficult for the gaming ball to win) although it is difficult to win a prize.

  Hereinafter, the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14 may be collectively referred to as a start winning opening or a starting opening.

  When the variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to be in the open state, the game ball heading for the variable winning ball device 15 is very likely to win the second start winning port 14. The first start winning opening 13 is provided directly under the effect display device 9, but the interval between the lower end of the effect display device 9 and the first start winning opening 13 is further reduced, or the first start winning opening is set. The nail arrangement around the first start winning opening 13 is made difficult to guide the game balls to the first starting winning opening 13 so that the winning rate of the second starting winning opening 14 is increased. It is also possible to make the direction higher than the winning rate of the first start winning opening 13.

  Below the first special symbol display 8a, the number of valid winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13, that is, the first reserved memory number (the reserved memory is also referred to as the start memory or the start prize memory) is displayed 4. There is provided a first special symbol storage memory indicator 18a composed of two indicators (for example, LEDs). The first special symbol storage memory indicator 18a increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 each time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  Below the second special symbol display 8b is a second special symbol hold comprising four indicators (for example, LEDs) for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the second start winning opening 14, that is, the second reserved memory number. A storage indicator 18b is provided. The second special symbol storage memory display 18b increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 every time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the second special symbol display 8b is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  In addition, the display screen of the effect display device 9 displays an area (hereinafter referred to as a summed pending storage display unit 18c) that displays a total number (total number of pending pending memories) that is the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number. .) Is provided. Since the summation pending storage display unit 18c for displaying the total number is provided, it is possible to easily grasp the total number of execution conditions that have not met the variable display start condition. In addition, since the total reserved memory display unit 18c is provided, the first special symbol reserved memory display 18a and the second special symbol reserved memory display 18b may not be provided.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 that opens and closes only the second start winning opening 14 is provided. Any of the start winning ports 14 may be provided with a variable winning ball device that performs an opening / closing operation.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a special variable winning ball device 20 is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 includes an opening / closing plate, and when the specific display result (big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, and the specific display result (big hit symbol) on the second special symbol display 8b. When the open / close plate is controlled to be open by the solenoid 21 in the specific game state (big hit game state) that occurs when the symbol is derived and displayed, the big winning opening serving as the winning area is opened. The game ball that has won the big winning opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  A normal symbol display 10 is provided at the lower right side of the game board 6. The normal symbol display 10 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, “◯” and “x”) called normal symbols.

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting the upper and lower lamps (the symbols can be visually recognized when turned on). For example, if the lower lamp is turned on at the end of the variable display, it is a hit. . When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In other words, the state of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is a state that is advantageous from a disadvantageous state for the player when the normal symbol is a stop symbol (a state in which a game ball can be awarded at the second start winning port 14). To change. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having four indicators (for example, LEDs) for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a game ball passing through the gate 32, that is, every time a game ball is detected by the gate switch 32a, the normal symbol storage memory display 41 increases the number of indicators that are turned on by one. Then, each time the variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of indicators that are lit is reduced by one. Further, in the probability variation state where the probability of being determined to be a big hit as compared to the normal state is high, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 The opening time becomes longer and the number of opening times is increased. Further, in the short-time state (a gaming state in which the special symbol variable display time is shortened), the opening time of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 may be lengthened and the number of times of opening may be increased.

  On the left and right sides of the game area 7 of the game board 6, there are provided decorative LEDs 25 that are displayed blinking during the game, and at the lower part there is an outlet 26 for taking in a hit ball that has not won. In addition, two speakers 27R and 27L that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. A top frame LED 28a, a left frame LED 28b, and a right frame LED 28c provided on the front frame are provided on the outer periphery upper portion, the outer periphery left portion, and the outer periphery right portion of the game area 7. Also, a prize ball LED 51 that is turned on when there is a remaining number of prize balls is provided in the vicinity of the left frame LED 28b, and a ball cut LED 52 that is turned on when the supply ball is cut is provided in the vicinity of the right frame LED 28c. . The top frame LED 28a, the left frame LED 28b, the right frame LED 28c, and the decoration LED 25 are examples of effects light emitters provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1. In addition to the above-described various LEDs for production (decoration), LEDs and lamps for production are installed.

  In the gaming machine, a ball striking device (not shown) that drives a driving motor in response to a player operating the batting operation handle 5 and uses the rotational force of the driving motor to launch a gaming ball to the gaming area 7. ) Is provided. A game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 7 through a ball striking rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then descends the game area 7. When the game ball enters the first start winning opening 13 and is detected by the first start opening switch 13a, if the variable display of the first special symbol can be started (for example, the variable display of the special symbol ends, 1), the first special symbol display 8a starts variable display (variation) of the first special symbol, and the effect display device 9 starts variable display of the effect symbol (decoration symbol). Is done. That is, the variable display of the first special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the first start winning opening 13. If the variable display of the first special symbol cannot be started, the first reserved memory number is increased by 1 on the condition that the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  When the game ball enters the second start winning opening 14 and is detected by the second start opening switch 14a, if the variable display of the second special symbol can be started (for example, the special symbol variable display ends, 2), the second special symbol display 8b starts variable display (variation) of the second special symbol, and the effect display device 9 starts variable display of the effect symbol (decoration symbol). Is done. That is, the variable display of the second special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the second start winning opening 14. If the variable display of the second special symbol cannot be started, the second reserved memory number is increased by 1 on condition that the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. 2 also shows the payout control board 37, the effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the CPU 56 and the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached. The game control microcomputer 560 further includes a random number circuit 503 that generates hardware random numbers (random numbers generated by the hardware circuit).

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

  The random number circuit 503 is a hardware circuit that is used to generate a random number for determination to determine whether or not to win a jackpot based on a display result of variable symbol special display. A random number circuit 503 updates numerical data in accordance with a set update rule within a numerical range in which an initial value (for example, 0) and an upper limit value (for example, 65535) are set, and starts at a random timing Based on the fact that the winning time is the reading (extraction) of the numerical data, it has a random number generation function in which the numerical data to be read becomes a random value.

  The random number circuit 503 includes a numeric data update range selection setting function (initial value selection setting function and upper limit value selection setting function), numeric data update rule selection setting function, and numeric data update rule selection. It has various functions such as a switching function. With such a function, the randomness of the generated random numbers can be improved.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 has a function of setting an initial value of numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. For example, a predetermined calculation is performed using the ID number of the game control microcomputer 560 stored in a predetermined storage area such as the ROM 54 (an ID number assigned with a different value for each product of the game control microcomputer 560). The numerical data obtained by the execution is set as the initial value of the numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. By performing such processing, the randomness of the random number generated by the random number circuit 503 can be further improved.

  The game control microcomputer 560 reads numerical data as random R from the random number circuit 503 when a start winning to the first start port switch 13a or the second start port switch 14a occurs, and performs a specific display based on the random R. It is determined whether or not to make a jackpot display result as a result, that is, whether or not to make a jackpot. When it is determined that the game is a big hit, the gaming state is shifted to a big hit gaming state as a specific gaming state advantageous to the player.

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power source created on the power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). In particular, at least data corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means (the value of the special symbol process flag or the total pending storage number counter) and the data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls are stored in the backup RAM. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like occurs. Further, data corresponding to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls are defined as data indicating the progress state of the game. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up.

  A reset signal (not shown) from the power supply board is input to the reset terminal of the game control microcomputer 560. A reset circuit for generating a reset signal supplied to the game control microcomputer 560 and the like is mounted on the power supply board. When the reset signal becomes high level, the game control microcomputer 560 and the like are in an operable state, and when the reset signal becomes low level, the game control microcomputer 560 and the like are in an operation stop state. Therefore, an allowable signal that allows the operation of the game control microcomputer 560 or the like is output during a period when the reset signal is at a high level, and a game control microcomputer is output when the reset signal is at a low level. An operation stop signal for stopping the operation of 560 or the like is output. Note that the reset circuit may be mounted on each electric component control board (a board on which a microcomputer for controlling the electric parts is mounted).

  Further, a power-off signal indicating that the power supply voltage from the power supply board has dropped below a predetermined value is input to the input port of the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the power supply board monitors the voltage value of a predetermined voltage (for example, DC30V or DC5V) used in the gaming machine, and when the voltage value decreases to a predetermined value (the power supply voltage is reduced). A power supply monitoring circuit that outputs a power-off signal indicating that). A clear signal (not shown) indicating that the clear switch for instructing to clear the contents of the RAM is operated is input to the input port of the game control microcomputer 560.

  Further, an input driver circuit 58 for supplying detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a and the count switch 23 to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. The main board also includes an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 that forms a big winning opening in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560. 31. Further, an information output circuit (not shown) for outputting an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer is also mounted on the main board 31.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (configured by the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 instructs the effect contents from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. An effect control command is received, and display control with the effect display device 9 that variably displays effect symbols is performed.

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

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

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

  The effect control CPU 101 reads necessary data from a character ROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The character ROM is for storing character image data displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols, etc. (including effect symbols) in advance. The effect control CPU 101 outputs the data read from the character ROM to the VDP 109. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the data input from the effect control CPU 101.

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

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

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

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the LED is input to the LED driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED driver 352 supplies a drive signal to each LED provided on the frame side such as the top frame LED 28a, the left frame LED 28b, and the right frame LED 28c. Further, a drive signal is supplied to the decoration LED 25 provided on the game board side. When a light emitter other than the LED is provided, a drive circuit (driver) for driving the light emitter is mounted on the lamp driver substrate 35.

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

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When power is supplied to the gaming machine and power supply is started, the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, and the gaming control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) After executing a security check process, which is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid, the main process after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

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

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

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

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

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 recovers the game state restoration process (steps S41 to S43) for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electrical component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. Process). Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S41), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55) (step S42). ). The work area is backed up by a backup power source. In the backup setting table, initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set. As a result of the processing in steps S41 and S42, the saved contents of the work area that should not be initialized remain as they are. The part that should not be initialized is, for example, data indicating the gaming state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, time reduction flag, etc.), and the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer) ), A portion in which data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (step S43). Then, the process proceeds to step S14. In this embodiment, the CPU 56 also transmits, to the effect control board 80, a total pending storage number designation command in which the value of the total pending storage number counter stored in the backup RAM is set in the process of step S43. .

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

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). The RAM clear process initializes predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a random number for normal symbol determination) to 0, but an arbitrary value or a predetermined value It may be initialized to. In addition, the entire area of the RAM 55 may not be initialized, and predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a random number for normal symbol determination) may be left as it is. Further, the start address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area (step S12).

  By the processing of steps S11 and S12, for example, a normal symbol per-determination random number counter, a special symbol buffer, a total winning ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, and other flags for selectively performing processing according to the control state are initialized. Value is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 initializes a sub board (a board on which a microcomputer other than the main board 31 is mounted) (a command indicating that the game control microcomputer 560 has executed an initialization process). Is also transmitted to the sub-board (step S13). For example, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the initialization designation command, the effect display device 9 performs screen display for notifying that the control of the gaming machine has been performed, that is, initialization notification.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a random number circuit setting process for initial setting of the random number circuit 503 (step S14). For example, the CPU 56 performs setting according to the random number circuit setting program to cause the random number circuit 503 to update the value of the random R.

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

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

  In this embodiment, the reach effect is executed using an effect symbol (decorative symbol) variably displayed on the effect display device 9. Further, when the display result of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the reach effect is always executed. When the display result of the special symbol is not a jackpot symbol, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether or not to execute the reach effect by lottery using a random number. However, it is the production control microcomputer 100 that actually executes the reach production control.

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process of steps S20 to S35 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether or not an on-state is turned on) is executed (step S20). The power-off signal is output, for example, when a voltage drop monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a drop in the power supply voltage supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals of the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, and the count switch 23 are input via the input driver circuit 58, and their state is determined (switch processing: step S21). ).

  Next, the CPU 56 has a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b, a normal symbol display 10, a first special symbol hold storage display 18a, a second special symbol hold storage display 18b, a normal symbol. A display control process for controlling the display of the on-hold storage display 41 is executed (step S22). For the first special symbol display 8a, the second special symbol display 8b, and the normal symbol display 10, a drive signal is output to each display according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S33 and S34. Execute control.

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

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Determine the detachment symbol (stop symbol) of the first special symbol and the second special symbol (for detachment symbol determination)
(2) Random 2: Determines the stop symbol of the first special symbol and the second special symbol when generating a big hit (for determining the big hit symbol)
(3) Random 3: Decide whether or not to reach when not a big hit (for reach determination)
(4) Random 4: Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on the normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(5) Random 5: Random 4 initial value is determined (for determining random 4 initial value)

  In step S23 in the game control process shown in FIG. 5, the game control microcomputer 560 uses a counter for generating the jackpot symbol determining random number of (2) and the random number for determining per regular symbol of (4). Count up (add 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers or initial value random numbers. In addition, in order to improve a game effect, you may make it use random numbers other than the random number of said (1)-(5). In this embodiment, the big hit determination random number is a random number generated by the hardware (random number circuit 503) built in the game control microcomputer 560. The big hit determination random number is used as the big hit determination random number. Software random numbers generated based on the program may be used.

  In this embodiment, the random numbers (particularly random numbers 1, 2, and 3) shown in FIG. 6 are used for both the first special symbol variation and the second special symbol variation. The random number related to the fluctuation may be different from the random number related to the fluctuation of the second special symbol.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a first special symbol process (step S26A). In the first special symbol process, the corresponding process is executed according to the first special symbol process flag for controlling the first special symbol display 8a and the big prize opening in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the first special symbol process flag according to the gaming state. Further, the CPU 56 performs a second special symbol process (step S26B). In the second special symbol process, corresponding processing is executed in accordance with a second special symbol process flag for controlling the second special symbol display 8b and the big prize opening in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the second special symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Next, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S27). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes a corresponding process according to a normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 and the open / close state of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a hold storage process (step S28). In the hold storage process, the CPU 56 manages the first hold memory number and the second hold memory number, respectively, and calculates the total number (total hold memory number) that is the sum of the first hold memory number and the second hold memory number. Execute processing to calculate and manage.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect control command control process: step S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S30).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes prize ball processing for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, and the count switch 23 (step S31). Specifically, the payout control micro mounted on the payout control board 37 in response to the winning detection based on any one of the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a and the count switch 23 being turned on. A payout control command (prize ball number signal) indicating the number of prize balls is output to the computer. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

  In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the CPU 56 relates to on / off of the solenoid in the RAM area corresponding to the output state of the output port. The contents are output to the output port (step S32: output processing).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a special symbol display control process for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of the special symbol in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data (step S33). For example, if the variation speed is 1 frame / 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set when the start flag set in the special symbol process is set, the CPU 56, for example, every 0.2 seconds passes. Then, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer is incremented by one. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a drive signal in step S22 in accordance with the display control data set in the output buffer, whereby the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b and Variable display of the second special symbol is executed.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting the normal symbol display control data for performing the effect display of the normal symbol in the output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data (step S34). For example, when the start flag related to the variation of the normal symbol is set in the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 displays the change rate of the normal symbol every 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set (“○” and “ If the speed is such that “×”), the value of the display control data set in the output buffer (for example, 1 indicating “◯” and 0 indicating “×”) is set every 0.2 seconds. Switch. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a normal signal on the normal symbol display 10 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer.

  Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S35), and the process is terminated.

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes of steps S21 to S34 (excluding step S30) in the timer interrupt process. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The jackpot determination table includes a normal jackpot determination table (see FIG. 7 (A)) used in a normal state (a gaming state that is not a probability change state) and a probability change jackpot determination table (see FIG. 7 (B)) used in a probability change state. ) The numerical values described in the left column of FIGS. 7A and 7B are jackpot determination values. The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and uses the extracted value as a jackpot determination random value (random R). The jackpot determination random value is one of the jackpots shown in FIG. If it coincides with the judgment value, it is decided to make a big hit (probability big hit or normal big hit) for the first special symbol and the second special symbol.

  The probability variation big hit is a big hit that shifts the gaming state after the big hit game to a probable state where there is a high probability of being determined to be a big hit compared to the normal state. The normal big hit is a big hit that shifts the gaming state after the big hit game to a normal state that is not a probable change state or maintains the normal state.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a reach determination table. The reach determination table is a table in which reach determination values to be compared with reach determination random numbers are set. FIG. 8A shows a reach determination table used when the variation (variable display) of the first special symbol is executed, and FIG. 8B shows the variation (variable display) of the second special symbol. The reach determination table used when () is executed is shown. The CPU 56 compares the reach determination random number value with the reach determination value, and determines to reach when the reach determination random number value matches any one of the reach determination values.

  As shown in FIG. 8, when the change of the first special symbol is performed, it is determined to reach at a higher rate than the case of the change of the second special symbol. That is, the reach probability is high. In addition, the smaller the total pending storage number, the higher the reach probability. The reach probability shown in FIG. 8 is an example, and the overall reach probability is higher when the first special symbol is changed than when the second special symbol is changed, and If the reach probability is higher as the total pending storage number is smaller, other values may be used.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the total number of pending storages is 7 or 8, the shortening variation without the reach effect is executed. However, the reach effect may be executed even when the total pending storage number is 7 or 8. In this case, the reach probability is lowered as compared with the case where the total number of pending storage is 0-6.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the total number of reserved storage and the variation time (time from the start of variation to the final stop of the symbol) of the special symbol and the effect symbol (decorative symbol). Note that the fluctuation times shown in FIGS. 9 (A) to 9 (C) are pre-determined to reach the stop symbol without being a big hit symbol (to be determined before the stop symbol is derived and displayed). It is the variation time used in the case. However, when the game state is the normal state and the total pending storage number (the sum of the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory) is 7 or 8, and when the gaming state is the probability change state or the short time state, the total pending storage number is 2 or more. In some cases, a shortened variation time of 2, 3, or 3.5 seconds is used. The variation times shown in FIGS. 9D to 9F are variation times used when the stop symbol is not made a big hit symbol and it is determined in advance that the reach effect is not executed. When it is determined in advance that the reach effect is not executed, variable display of the variation time (for example, 4 seconds) without the reach effect is executed (see FIG. 10). However, 2 seconds, 3 seconds, or 3.5 seconds when the game state is the normal state and the total pending storage number is 7 or 8, and when the game state is the probability change state or the short time state and the total pending storage number is 2 or more. The shortened variation time is used. In addition, when it is determined in advance that the stop symbol is a jackpot symbol, the fluctuation times of 2, 3, 3.5, and 4 seconds are not used.

  As shown in FIG. 9, in this embodiment, the stop symbol is not determined to be a big hit symbol and the reach effect is not executed (determined before the stop symbol is derived and displayed). In this case, the game control microcomputer 560 corresponds to each of the case where the game state is a normal state (a state that is neither a probability change state nor a time-short state), a probability change state, or a time-short state, and the total pending storage number Depending on, the variation time is determined. Specifically, the smaller the total pending storage number, the longer the variation time is selected. The example shown in FIG. 9 is an example, and other variable times may be used, and the total pending storage number is further divided (for example, for each of the total pending storage numbers 0 to 8), the variable time. May be assigned. Also, a plurality of variation times corresponding to one total pending storage number may be allocated, and the game control microcomputer 560 may select one variation time to be actually used from the plurality of variation times.

  Further, the total number of pending storage for determining whether or not to use the shortened variation time (in this embodiment, 2 seconds, 3 seconds, or 3.5 seconds) is the gaming state (the normal state and the winning advantageous state). Depending on it. The winning advantageous state is a period (high base period) in which the expected winning value per predetermined time is higher than that in the normal state. In this embodiment, the short-time state and the probability variation state are equivalent. In this embodiment, more specifically, when it is determined in advance that it will not reach, when it is in the normal state, if the total number of pending storage is “7” or more, it is determined to use the shortened variation time, In the advantageous state, if the total number of pending storage is “2” or more, it is decided to use the shortened variation time. In other words, the criterion value for determining whether or not the game control microcomputer 560 decides to use the shortened variation time based on the total number of pending storage is “7” in the normal state, and is in the winning advantageous state. Sometimes “2”. Compared to the normal state, in the winning advantageous state, the total number of reserved memories increases and tends to approach the upper limit (in general, the opening time of the second starting winning opening 14 is longer), so the player tends to refrain from launching the ball However, in this embodiment, the determination reference value in the winning advantageous state is set to a value (a smaller value) than the determination reference value in the normal state. Even when the total number of reserved memory is relatively small, it is possible to speed up the digestion of the reserved memory using the shortened variation time, that is, it is possible to avoid that the total number of the reserved memory is close to the upper limit as much as possible. Can be high.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol and the effect symbol (decoration symbol) used in this embodiment. The variation pattern indicates the variation time of the special symbol and the production symbol, but since the variation of the production symbol is synchronized with the variation of the special symbol, hereinafter, the variation pattern of the special symbol and the production symbol are simply described below. It may be expressed as a variation pattern.

  As shown in FIG. 10, in this embodiment, the first 4 seconds of fluctuation pattern # 1 (fluctuation time 11 seconds), fluctuation pattern # 2 (fluctuation time 9 seconds), fluctuation pattern # 3 (fluctuation time 8 seconds). Then, high-speed fluctuation (the switching timing of the displayed symbols is short) is performed. When 4 seconds have elapsed from the start of the variation, the same symbol is stopped and displayed as the left and right effect symbols (decorative symbols), and thereafter the middle symbol varies. Meanwhile, in the effect display device 9, a reach effect is executed by a character image or the like other than a design, and a reach effect synchronized with the effect in the effect display device 9 is produced by the light emitters such as LEDs for effects and the speakers 27R and 27L. Executed. Here, “synchronization” means that the contents of the production are consistent.

  The fluctuation pattern # 4 is a fluctuation pattern in which only high-speed fluctuation for 4 seconds is executed. When 4 seconds have elapsed from the start of the change, the left middle right effect symbol (decorative symbol) is stopped and displayed. The variation pattern # 4 is used when it is determined that the stop symbol is not a jackpot symbol.

  The fluctuation pattern # 5 is a fluctuation pattern in which only high-speed fluctuation for 3.5 seconds is executed. When 3.5 seconds have elapsed from the start of the change, the left middle right effect symbol (decorative symbol) is stopped and displayed. The variation pattern # 5 is used as a shortened variation pattern when the gaming state is the normal state (see FIG. 9A).

  The fluctuation pattern # 6 is a fluctuation pattern in which only high-speed fluctuation for 3 seconds is executed. When 3 seconds have elapsed from the start of the change, the left middle right effect symbol (decorative symbol) is stopped and displayed. The variation pattern # 6 is used as a shortened variation pattern when the gaming state is a short time state (see FIG. 9C).

  The fluctuation pattern # 7 is a fluctuation pattern in which only high-speed fluctuation for 2 seconds is executed. When 2 seconds have elapsed from the start of the fluctuation, the left middle right effect symbol (decorative symbol) is stopped and displayed. The variation pattern # 7 is used as a shortened variation pattern when the gaming state is a probability variation state (see FIG. 9B).

  When the production control microcomputer 100 receives the production control command indicating the variation pattern from the game control microcomputer 560, the production display device 9 performs the production design (decoration design) for a time corresponding to the variation pattern indicated by the received production control command. ) And a display effect of a type corresponding to the variation pattern indicated by the received effect control command. At the same time, an effect using effects parts such as a lamp, LED, and speakers 27R and 27L is performed. That is, the fluctuation pattern indicates the fluctuation time and the aspect of the effect.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining how to display the summation pending storage display unit 18c. As shown in FIG. 11 (A), up to eight total numbers can be displayed as the total of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number on the total reserved memory display unit 18c. When the first start condition is satisfied and the variable display of the first special symbol is not in a state that can be started, the combined reserved storage display unit 18c is provided on the condition that the first reserved storage number has not reached the upper limit value. The number of reserved storage (total number) displayed in the first reserved storage display area is increased by one. Further, when the second start condition is satisfied and the variable display of the second special symbol is not in a state that can be started, the combined reserved storage display unit 18c is provided on the condition that the second reserved storage number has not reached the upper limit value. Is increased by one (see FIG. 11B). In FIG. 11, black circles (circles) indicate a displayed state, and white circles indicate non-display (nothing is actually displayed).

  As shown in FIG. 11 (B), in the total reserved storage display unit 18c, the left side is a first reserved memory number display area (consisting of four circles) for displaying the first reserved memory number, and the right side is This is a second reserved memory number display area (consisting of four circles) for displaying the second reserved memory number. In the first reserved memory number display area, display is performed from the right side of the four circle portions. For example, if the first reserved storage number is “1”, the rightmost circle portion of the four circle portions is displayed. As shown in FIG. 11B, if the first reserved storage number is “3”, three circle parts from the rightmost of the four circle parts are displayed. In the second reserved storage number display area, display is performed from the left side of the four circle portions. For example, if the second reserved storage number is “1”, the leftmost circle portion of the four circle portions is displayed as shown in FIG. If the second reserved storage number is “3”, three circle parts from the leftmost of the four circle parts are displayed.

  In this embodiment, control is performed so that the variation display of the second special symbol is executed in preference to the variation display of the first special symbol. Therefore, in the state shown in FIG. When the variable display execution condition is satisfied, the variable display of the second special symbol is executed, and the display (circle portion) of the second reserved memory number display area is deleted. After that, when the display of the second reserved memory number display area is completely erased, if the execution condition of the variable symbol special display is satisfied, the variable display of the first special symbol is executed, and the first reserved memory number display area Erasing is performed from the left display (circle).

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a relationship between a stop symbol of a special symbol (first special symbol, second special symbol) and a gaming state controlled thereafter. In the example shown in FIG. 12, when the stop symbol is an even symbol, the game is out of the game. When the stop symbol is an odd symbol, it is a big hit. Further, in the case of “7” in the odd number of symbols, the gaming state changes from the normal state to the probable change state. A symbol that shifts to a jackpot gaming state after the end of a special symbol change is called a jackpot symbol. In addition, a symbol whose gaming state changes from a normal state to a certain probability state is called a certain probability variation symbol. A jackpot symbol that is not a probability variation symbol is called a non-probability variation symbol or a non-probability variation jackpot symbol. In this embodiment, by determining the jackpot symbol of the special symbol, it is determined whether to control the game state between the probability variation state (special game state) and the normal state after the jackpot game state ends. Note that the probability variation symbol and the non-probability variation symbol may not be distinguished, but may be simply divided into a jackpot symbol and an off symbol symbol. In that case, the game control microcomputer 560 does not determine whether or not to shift to the probability change state according to the symbol determined by the lottery, but determines whether or not to shift to the probability change state using a random number or the like. I do. Further, the production control microcomputer 100 uses electrical components provided in the gaming machine after the big hit game is started (for example, during the big hit game or at the end of the big hit game) when the probability variation big hit occurs. Announcement of probable big hit. In such a configuration, the player can no longer grasp the change in the game state from the stop symbol, and the change in the game state can be grasped for the first time by notification, so that the interest of the game is improved. The effect symbols (decorative symbols) that are variably displayed and stopped on the effect display device 9 are numerals, alphabets, character-like symbols, symbols in which numbers or the like are displayed in character-like display objects, etc. Such a design may be used.

  Next, a method for sending a control command from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100 will be described. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a signal line of an effect control command transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80. As shown in FIG. 13, in this embodiment, the effect control command is transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 via the relay board 77 by using eight signal lines of the effect control signals CD0 to CD7. Further, between the main board 31 and the effect control board 80, a signal line of the effect control INT signal for transmitting the capture signal (effect control INT signal) is also wired.

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

  As shown in FIG. 14, the 8-bit effect control command data of the effect control command is output in synchronization with the effect control INT signal. The effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 detects that the effect control INT signal has risen, and starts a 1-byte data capturing process through an interrupt process. Therefore, when viewed from the effect control microcomputer 100, the effect control INT signal corresponds to a signal (capture instruction signal) that triggers the capture of the effect control command data.

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

  FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIG. 15, commands 8001 (H) to 8007 (H) specify an effect designating a variation pattern of an effect symbol (decorative symbol) variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in response to variable display of the special symbol. This is a control command (variation pattern command) (corresponding to variation patterns # 1 to # 7, respectively). “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number. The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the start of variation. Therefore, when the production control microcomputer 100 receives any of the commands 8001 (H) to 8007 (H), the production display device 9 controls the production display (decoration design) to start variable display.

  The commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit and the type of the big hit game. The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the display results of the decorative symbols and the effect symbols in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H), so that the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H) are specified as the display results. It is called a command.

  Command 8D01 (H) is an effect control command (first symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started. Command 8D02 (H) is an effect control command (second symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the second special symbol is started. The first symbol variation designation command and the second symbol variation designation command may be collectively referred to as a symbol variation designation command.

  Command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the variable display (fluctuation) of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) is terminated and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. When receiving the symbol confirmation designation command, the effect control microcomputer 100 ends the variable display (fluctuation) of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) and derives and displays the display result.

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

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

  Commands A001 to A002 (H) are effect control commands for displaying a fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of a big hit game (big hit start designation command: fanfare designation command). The jackpot start designation command includes a jackpot start 1 designation command and a jackpot start designation 2 designation command corresponding to the type of jackpot. The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (special command during opening of a big winning opening) indicating a display during the opening of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big winning opening) indicating the closing of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX.

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

  The command C000 (H) is an effect control command (first start winning designation command) that designates that the first start winning has been won. The command C100 (H) is an effect control command (second start winning designation command) for designating that the second starting win has been won. The first start prize designation command and the second start prize designation command may be collectively referred to as a start prize designation command.

  The command C2XX (H) is an effect control command (total pending storage number designation command) for designating a total number (total pending storage number) that is the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number. “XX” in the command C2XX (H) indicates the total pending storage number. The command C300 (H) is an effect control command (total pending storage count subtraction designation command) that designates that the total pending storage count is decremented by one. In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a total pending storage number subtraction designation command when subtracting the total pending storage number, but does not use the total pending storage number subtraction designation command, and does not use the total pending storage number subtraction designation command. When the stored number is subtracted, the combined pending storage number after the subtraction may be designated by a combined pending storage number designation command.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the above-described effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31. Then, the display state of the effect display device 9 is changed according to the contents shown in FIG. 15, the display state of the lamp is changed, or the sound number data is output to the audio output board 70.

  16 and 17 are explanatory diagrams illustrating examples of the transmission timing of the effect control command. FIG. 16 (A) shows an example when a start prize (first start prize or second start prize) is generated. The game control microcomputer 560 transmits the first start prize designation command (or the second start prize designation command), and then continuously transmits the total pending storage number designation command.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 16B, the game control microcomputer 560, at the start of the fluctuation, the fluctuation pattern command, the symbol fluctuation designation command (the first symbol fluctuation designation command or the second symbol fluctuation designation command), the display result A specific command (display result 1 designation command, display result 2 designation command or display result 3 designation command) and a total pending storage number subtraction designation command are transmitted. When the variable display time has elapsed, a symbol confirmation designation command is transmitted.

  Before transmitting the variation pattern command, a background designation command for designating a background image in the effect display device 9 according to the gaming state (for example, normal state / short time state / probability variation state) may be transmitted. Further, an effect control command indicating the number of reserved storages itself may be transmitted following the display result specifying command.

  FIG. 17A shows an example in a 15R jackpot game. The game control microcomputer 560 transmits a jackpot start 1 designation command (or jackpot start 2 designation command) at the start of a big hit game, and sends a big prize opening opening designation command at the start of each round. At the end of the game, a designation command is transmitted after the big winning opening is opened, and a jackpot end designation command is transmitted at the end of the jackpot game.

  FIG. 17B shows an example when power supply is started (when power is turned on). The game control microcomputer 560 transmits a customer waiting demonstration designation command after transmitting a power-on designation command.

  FIG. 17C shows an example when power supply is resumed (when power failure is restored). The game control microcomputer 560 continuously transmits the power-on designation command and the total pending storage number designation command. The value of the total pending storage number counter formed in the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period even when the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. Therefore, when the power supply is resumed, the game control microcomputer 560 Based on the stored total pending storage number counter value, a total pending storage number designation command is transmitted.

  FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of bit assignment of input ports related to a switch for detecting a game ball in the game control microcomputer. As shown in FIG. 18, the detection signals of the count switch 23, the gate switch 32a, the second start port switch 14a, and the first start port switch 13a are input to the bits 4 to 7 of the input port 0, respectively. The input port 0 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG.

  19 and 20 are flowcharts showing the hold storage process in step S28. In the on-hold storage process, the CPU 56 detects that the game ball has won the first start port switch 13a for detecting that the game ball has won the first start prize port 13 or the second start prize port 14. If the second start opening switch 14a is turned on, that is, if the first start prize or the second start prize is generated, the processing from step S212 is executed. Specifically, the data of the input port 0 (see FIG. 18) is read and loaded into a predetermined area of the register or RAM 55, for example. If bit 6 in the loaded data is 1, data indicating “second” is set in the start port pointer (step S212). If bit 7 of input port 0 is 1, data indicating “first” is set in the start port pointer (step S213). If bits 6 and 7 are 0, the process ends.

  The start port pointer is formed in the RAM 55. “Formed in RAM” means an area in the RAM. For example, data indicating “first” is “0”, and data indicating “second” is “1”.

  Next, the CPU 56 increases the value of the reserved storage number counter indicated by the start port pointer by 1 (step S214). Specifically, when the starting port pointer indicates “first”, the value of the first reserved memory number counter indicating the first reserved memory number is incremented by 1, and the starting port pointer indicates “second”. If it is, the value of the second reserved memory number counter indicating the second reserved memory number is incremented by one. Then, the CPU 56 increases the value of the total pending memory number counter indicating the total pending memory number that is the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number by 1 (step S215).

  Further, the CPU 56 extracts software random numbers (counter values for generating big hit determination random numbers, etc.) and random R (big hit determination random numbers), and uses them as first random storage values as the extracted random number values. A process of storing in the storage area in the reserved storage buffer indicated by the start port pointer of the buffer and the second reserved storage buffer is executed (step S216). Specifically, when the start port pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 stores the software random number and random R in the storage area corresponding to the value indicated by the first reserved memory number counter of the first reserved memory buffer. When the start port pointer indicates “second”, the software random number and random R are stored in the storage area corresponding to the value indicated by the second reserved memory number counter of the second reserved memory buffer.

  FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of areas (first holding storage buffer and second holding storage buffer) for storing random numbers and the like corresponding to holding storage. As shown in FIG. 21, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the first reserved storage number is secured in the first reserved storage buffer. In addition, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value of the second reserved storage number (4 in this example) is secured in the second reserved storage buffer. The first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer (hold buffer) are formed in the RAM 55.

  In step S216, the CPU 56 extracts random values 1 to 3 (see FIG. 6) as software random numbers, and reads the count value of the random number circuit 503 to extract random R.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the start winning designation command indicated by the start port pointer. Specifically, when the starting port pointer indicates “first”, a first starting winning designation command is transmitted, and when the starting port pointer indicates “second”, the second starting winning specification is specified. A command is transmitted (step S217). In addition, a total pending storage number designation command is transmitted (step S218). The total pending storage number designation command may be transmitted before the first start prize designation command or the second start prize designation command.

  When transmitting an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the CPU 56 sets the address of a command transmission table (preliminarily set for each command in the ROM) corresponding to the effect control command as a pointer. And the address of the command transmission table according to an effect control command is set to a pointer, and an effect control command is transmitted in an effect control command control process (step S29).

  Further, the value of the first reserved memory number counter is set in the EXT data of the first start winning designation command. The value of the second reserved memory number counter is set in the EXT data of the second start winning designation command. The value of the total pending storage number counter is set in the EXT data of the total pending storage number designation command.

  If the start port pointer indicates “second” (step S221), it is checked whether bit 7 of the loaded data is 1 (step S222). If bit 7 of the loaded data is 1, data indicating “first” is set in the start port pointer (step S223), and the process proceeds to step S214. If the start port pointer indicates “first” (step S231), it is checked whether bit 6 of the loaded data is 1 (step S232). If bit 6 of the loaded data is 1, data indicating “second” is set in the start port pointer (step S233), and the process proceeds to step S214. When both the bits 6 and 7 of the loaded data are 1 by the processing of steps S221 to S223 and steps S231 to S233, that is, both the first start port switch 13a and the second start port switch 14a are turned on. When the state is reached, the processing of steps S214 to S219 is executed for the second start port switch 14a corresponding to bit 7, and immediately after that, the steps S214 to S219 are performed for the first start port switch 13a corresponding to bit 6. Will be executed. Further, immediately after the processing of steps S214 to S218 is executed for the first start port switch 13a corresponding to bit 6, the processing of steps S214 to S218 is executed for the second start port switch 14a corresponding to bit 7. It will be.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an example of a program of the first special symbol process (step S26A) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56). In the first special symbol process, a process for controlling the first special symbol display 8a and the special winning opening is executed.

  In the first special symbol process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S311). If the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 ends the process as it is. The jackpot flag has been determined to be a big hit based on the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol, has been shifted to the big hit gaming state based on the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol, A flag indicating that it has been determined that a big hit will be made based on the display result of the variation display of the second special symbol, or that it has been shifted to the big hit gaming state based on the display result of the variation display of the second special symbol is there. The big hit flag is set when it is determined that the big hit is determined in the first special symbol normal process or the second special symbol normal process, and is reset in the first big hit end process or the second big hit end process.

  If the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second changing flag is set (step S312). If the second changing flag is set, the CPU 56 ends the process as it is. The second changing flag is a flag indicating that the second special symbol is being changed. The second changing flag is set in the second special symbol normal process when the variable display of the second special symbol is executed, and is reset in the second special symbol stop process when the variable display of the second special symbol is stopped. The

  If the second changing flag is not set, the CPU 56 performs any one of steps S300 to S307 according to the value of the first special symbol process flag. The processes in steps S300 to S307 are as follows. Note that, due to the processing of steps S311 and S312, the change of the first special symbol is not started during the big hit game and the change of the second special symbol.

  First special symbol normal process (step S300): executed when the value of the first special symbol process flag is zero. When the game control microcomputer 560 is in a state where variable display of the first special symbol can be started, the game control microcomputer 560 checks the first reserved memory number (start winning memory number). The first reserved memory number can be confirmed by the count value of the reserved memory number counter. If the first reserved storage number is not 0, it is determined whether or not to make a big hit. Then, the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) corresponding to step S301.

  First variation pattern setting process (step S301): This process is executed when the value of the first special symbol process flag is 1. The stop symbol after the variable display of the first special symbol is determined. Also, the variation pattern is determined, and the variation time in the variation pattern (variable display time: the time from the start of variable display until the display result is derived and displayed (stopped display)) Decide to be time. Also, a variation time timer for measuring the variation time of the first special symbol is started. Then, the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) corresponding to step S302.

  First display result specifying command transmission process (step S302): This process is executed when the value of the first special symbol process flag is 2. Control for transmitting a display result specifying command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (3 in this example) corresponding to step S303.

  First special symbol changing process (step S303): executed when the value of the first special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the first variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in step S301 times out, that is, the variation time timer value becomes 0), the internal state (first special symbol process) Flag) is updated to a value (4 in this example) corresponding to step S304.

  First special symbol stop process (step S304): executed when the value of the first special symbol process flag is 4. The variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is stopped and the stop symbol is derived and displayed. In addition, control for transmitting a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed. If the big hit flag is set, the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. If the big hit flag is not set, the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300. The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the effect symbol (decoration symbol) when the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560 is received.

  Pre-opening process for first big prize opening (step S305): executed when the value of the first special symbol process flag is 5. In the first big prize opening opening pre-processing, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. In addition, the execution time of the special winning opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (6 in this example) corresponding to step S306. The first big winning opening opening pre-processing is executed for each round. However, when starting the first round, the first big winning opening opening pre-processing is also a process of starting a big hit game.

  First big prize opening opening process (step S306): executed when the value of the first special symbol process flag is 6. A control for transmitting an effect control command for round display during the big hit gaming state to the effect control microcomputer 100, a process for confirming the completion of the closing condition of the big prize opening, and the like are performed. If the closing condition for the big prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S305 (5 in this example). When all the rounds have been completed, the internal state (first special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S307 (7 in this example).

  First big hit end process (step S307): executed when the value of the first special symbol process flag is 7. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Further, a process for setting a flag (for example, a probability variation flag) indicating a gaming state is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  23 and 24 are flowcharts illustrating the first special symbol normal process (step S300) in the first special symbol process. In the first special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 checks the value of the first reserved memory number (step S50). Specifically, the count value of the first reserved memory number counter is confirmed. Note that other methods may be used as long as the presence or absence of the first reserved memory number can be confirmed, for example, by confirming whether or not data such as a random number is stored in the storage area in the first reserved memory buffer. If the first reserved memory number is not 0, the CPU 56 checks the value of the second reserved memory number (step S51). Specifically, the count value of the second reserved memory number counter is confirmed. If the second reserved storage number is 0, the process proceeds to step S52. If the second reserved storage number is not 0, the process is terminated.

  In step S51, if the second reserved memory number is not 0 (that is, the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number are not 0), both the first start condition and the second start condition are satisfied simultaneously. Means that In this case, the CPU 56 does not execute the processes after step S52 and does not start the variable display of the first special symbol. By performing such control, control is performed so that the variable display of the second special symbol is executed in preference to the variable display of the first special symbol.

  In step S <b> 52, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the number of reserved memories = 1 in the first reserved memory buffer of the RAM 55 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. Further, the value of the first reserved memory number is decreased by 1 (the count value of the first reserved memory number counter is decremented by 1), and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S53). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the first reserved memory buffer of the RAM 55 is expressed as the first reserved memory number = n−1. Store in the storage area corresponding to. Therefore, the order in which the random number values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the respective first reserved memory numbers are extracted always coincides with the order of the first reserved memory number = 1, 2, 3, 4. It is like that.

  Then, the CPU 56 decreases the value of the total pending storage number by one. That is, 1 is subtracted from the count value of the total pending storage number counter (step S54).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes a big hit determination process (step S61). The jackpot determination module compares the jackpot determination value (see FIG. 7) determined in advance with the random number for random determination (random R), and determines that the jackpot (ordinary jackpot or probable variation jackpot) is determined if they match. It is processing.

  When the big hit is not made, that is, when the big hit flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S71 (step S62). When the big hit flag is set, the big hit symbol determination process is executed (step S63), the first changing flag indicating that the first special symbol is changing is set (step S77), and the first The value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the first variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S78).

  In step S71, an off symbol determination process is performed. Further, when the time reduction flag indicating the time reduction state is set, the value of the time reduction number counter indicating the number of times the special symbol can be changed in the time reduction state is decremented by 1 (steps S72 and S73). When the value of the time reduction counter becomes 0, a time reduction end flag is set in order to shift the gaming state to the non-time reduction state when the variable display ends (steps S74 and S75). Then, control goes to a step S77.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating a subroutine of the big hit determination process in step S61. In the big hit determination process, the CPU 56 reads a random R (random number for big hit determination) from the random number buffer area (step S80). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the probability variation flag is set (step S81). When the probability variation flag is set, the value of the random R coincides with one of the jackpot determination values for setting the probability variation jackpot set in the probability variation jackpot determination table illustrated in FIG. Whether or not (step S82). If they match, the probability variation big hit flag is set (step S83), and the process proceeds to step S85. If it does not match any of the big hit determination values, the random R value is one of the big hit determination values for the normal big hit set in the probability change big hit determination table illustrated in FIG. It is confirmed whether or not they match (step S84). If they match, the big hit flag is set (step S85). If it does not match any of the big hit determination values, the process is terminated as it is.

  When the probability variation flag is not set, the value of the random R coincides with one of the jackpot determination values for setting the probability variation jackpot set in the probability variation jackpot determination table illustrated in FIG. Whether or not (step S86). If they match, the probability variation big hit flag is set (step S87), and the process proceeds to step S89. If it does not match any of the big hit determination values, the random R value is one of the big hit determination values for making the normal big hit set in the normal big hit determination table illustrated in FIG. It is confirmed whether or not they match (step S88). If they match, the big hit flag is set (step S89). If it does not match any of the big hit determination values, the process is terminated as it is.

  In this embodiment, whether or not to make a big hit and the type of big hit (probability big hit or normal big hit) are determined based on the big hit determination random number. However, the big hit is determined based on the big hit determination random number. If it is decided whether to win or not, and if a predetermined jackpot symbol (predetermined probability variation jackpot symbol) is determined based on the random number for determining the jackpot symbol, control to the probability variation state You may do it.

  FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot symbol determination table used in the jackpot symbol determination process. The jackpot symbol determination table is a table that is stored in the ROM 54 and data indicating the jackpot symbol is set in order (but not in numerical order but randomly).

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the jackpot symbol determination process in step S63. In the jackpot symbol determination process, the CPU 56 reads the jackpot symbol determination random number from the random number buffer area (step S91). Then, a value of (start address of jackpot symbol determination table + random number for jackpot symbol determination) is calculated (step S92). Further, data is read from the address of the ROM 54 indicated by the calculated value (step S93), and the read data is stored in the stop symbol buffer in the RAM 55 as data indicating the stop symbol of the big hit symbol (step S94).

  FIG. 28 is an explanatory diagram showing a loss symbol determination table used in the loss symbol determination process. The missing symbol determination table is a table that is stored in the ROM 54 and data indicating the missing symbols are set in order (but not in numerical order but randomly).

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the off symbol determination process in step S71. In the off symbol determination process, the CPU 56 reads out the off symbol determination random number from the random number buffer area (step S96). Then, the value of (the start address of the missing symbol determination table + the random symbol for determining the missing symbol) is calculated (step S97). Further, data is read from the address of the ROM 54 indicated by the calculated value (step S98), and the read data is stored in the stop symbol buffer in the RAM 55 as data indicating the stop symbol of the off symbol (step S99).

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the first variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the first special symbol process. In the first variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S100).

  If the big hit flag is set, the variation pattern is determined according to the gaming state (step S101). Specifically, if the gaming state is the normal state, that is, if neither the probability variation flag nor the time reduction flag is set, it is determined to use the variation pattern # 1 (see FIG. 10). If the gaming state is the short time state, that is, if the short time flag is set, it is decided to use the variation pattern # 2 (see FIG. 10). If the gaming state is the probability variation state, that is, if the probability variation flag is set, it is determined that the variation pattern # 3 (see FIG. 10) is used. Then, the process proceeds to step S103.

  If the big hit flag is not set, the variation pattern setting process is executed (step S102). In the variation pattern setting process, whether to reach or not is determined, and the variation pattern is determined. And the control which transmits the fluctuation pattern command according to the determined fluctuation pattern to the microcomputer 100 for effect control is performed (step S103). Next, control is performed to transmit the first symbol variation designation command (see FIG. 15) to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S104).

  Moreover, the variation of the first special symbol is started (step S105). For example, a start flag referred to in the special symbol display control process in step S33 is set. Further, a value corresponding to the variation time (see FIG. 10) corresponding to the selected variation pattern is set in the variation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S106). Then, the value of the first special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the first display result specifying command transmission process (step S302) (step S107). In addition, you may comprise so that the process of step S104 may be performed before the process of step S103. That is, the first symbol variation designation command may be transmitted before the variation pattern command is transmitted.

  31 to 33 are flowcharts showing the variation pattern determination process in step S102. The processes shown in FIGS. 31 to 33 are also used in the variation pattern determination process in the second special symbol process. That is, it is a subroutine shared by the first special symbol process and the second special symbol process.

  In the variation pattern determination process, the CPU 56 reads the reach determination random number from the random number buffer area (step S241). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the probability variation flag and the time reduction flag are set (steps S242 and S249). If no flag is set, the process proceeds to step S271. When the time reduction flag is set, the process proceeds to step S258.

  If the probability variation flag is set, the value of the total pending storage number counter is read, and if the value of the total pending storage number counter is 0 (step S243), the reach determination table shown in FIG. It is confirmed whether or not there is a determination value that matches the reach determination random number in the first determination value table (the table used when the total number of pending storages = 0) (step S244). If there is a matching determination value, it is determined to use variation pattern # 3 (step S245) (see FIG. 9B and FIG. 10). If there is no matching determination value, the process proceeds to step S255.

  In the process of step S243, the CPU 56 refers to the reach determination table shown in FIG. 8A when the first changing flag is set. When the second changing flag is set, the reach determination table shown in FIG. 8B is referred to. This is because the processing shown in FIGS. 31 to 33 is also used in the second special symbol process, and when used in the second special symbol process, the second changing flag is set. The same applies to the processes (steps S247, S252, S259, S262, S265, S272, S275, S278, and S282) that refer to the reach determination table thereafter.

  If the value of the total pending storage number counter is 1 (step S246), the second determination value table in the reach determination table shown in FIG. 8A (a table used when the total pending storage number = 1 or 2). Whether there is a determination value that matches the reach determination random number (step S247). If there is a matching determination value, it is determined to use variation pattern # 3 (step S248) (see FIG. 9B and FIG. 10). If there is no matching determination value, the process proceeds to step S255.

  If the value of the total pending storage number counter is neither 0 nor 1, that is, if it is 2 or more (2 to 8), it is decided to use the variation pattern # 7 (step S254) (FIG. 9B ) And FIG.

  In step S255, it is determined to use the fluctuation pattern # 4 or the fluctuation pattern # 7 (2 seconds) without the reach effect. As shown in FIG. 9E, the CPU 56 selects the variation pattern # 7 (2 seconds) when the value of the total pending storage number counter is 2 or more.

  In step S258, if the value of the total pending storage number counter is 0, the first determination value table (the table used when the total pending storage number = 0) in the reach determination table shown in FIG. It is confirmed whether or not there is a determination value that matches the reach determination random number (step S259). If there is a matching determination value, it is determined to use variation pattern # 2 (step S260) (see FIG. 9C and FIG. 10). If there is no matching determination value, the process proceeds to step S268.

  If the value of the total pending storage number counter is 1 (step S261), the second determination value table in the reach determination table shown in FIG. 8A (a table used when the total pending storage number = 1 or 2). Whether there is a determination value that matches the reach determination random number (step S262). If there is a matching determination value, it is determined to use variation pattern # 2 (step S263) (see FIG. 9C and FIG. 10). If there is no matching determination value, the process proceeds to step S268.

  When the value of the total pending storage number counter is neither 0 nor 1, that is, when it is 2 or more, it is decided to use the variation pattern # 6 (step S267) (see FIG. 9C and FIG. 10). ).

  In step S268, it is determined to use variation pattern # 4 or variation pattern # 6 (3 seconds) without a reach effect. As shown in FIG. 9F, the CPU 56 selects the variation pattern # 6 (3 seconds) when the value of the total pending storage number counter is 2 or more.

  In step S271, if the value of the total pending storage number counter is 0, the first determination value table (the table used when the total pending storage count = 0) in the reach determination table shown in FIG. It is confirmed whether or not there is a determination value that matches the reach determination random number (step S272). If there is a matching determination value, it is determined to use variation pattern # 1 (step S273) (see FIG. 9A and FIG. 10). If there is no matching determination value, the process proceeds to step S285.

  If the value of the total pending storage number counter is 1 (step S274), the second determination value table in the reach determination table shown in FIG. 8A (a table used when the total pending storage number = 1 or 2). Whether or not there is a determination value that matches the reach determination random number (step S275). If there is a matching determination value, it is determined to use variation pattern # 1 (step S276) (see FIG. 9A and FIG. 10). If there is no matching determination value, the process proceeds to step S285.

  If the value of the total pending storage number counter is 2 (step S277), the second determination value table in the reach determination table shown in FIG. 8A (the table used when the total pending storage number = 01 or 2). It is confirmed whether there is a determination value that matches the reach determination random number (step S278). If there is a matching determination value, it is determined to use variation pattern # 3 (step S279) (see FIG. 9A and FIG. 10). If there is no matching determination value, the process proceeds to step S285.

  If the value of the total pending storage number counter is any of 3 to 6 (step S281), a third determination value table in the reach determination table shown in FIG. It is checked whether or not there is a determination value that matches the reach determination random number in the table (sometimes used) (step S282). If there is a matching determination value, it is determined to use variation pattern # 3 (step S283) (see FIG. 9A and FIG. 10). If there is no matching determination value, the process proceeds to step S285.

  When the value of the total pending storage number counter is not 0 to 6, that is, 7 or 8, it is decided to use the variation pattern # 5 (step S284) (FIGS. 9A and 10). reference).

  In step S285, it is determined to use variation pattern # 4 or variation pattern # 5 (4 seconds) without a reach effect. As shown in FIG. 9D, when the value of the total pending storage number counter is 7 or 8, the CPU 56 selects the variation pattern # 6 (3 seconds).

  In this embodiment, after determining whether or not to reach based on the reach determination random number, the variation mode (concept including the type of reach, the display pattern of the display effect content, the variation time, etc.) is determined. However, it may be determined at once whether or not to reach using one random number.

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing the first display result specifying command transmission process (step S302). In the first display result specifying command transmission process, the CPU 56 transmits an effect control command (see FIG. 15) of any one of display result 1 designation to display result 3 designation according to the type of jackpot that has been lost or determined. Take control. Specifically, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S110). If not set, control is performed to transmit a display result 1 designation command (step S111). When the big hit flag is set, when the probability variation big hit flag is set, control for transmitting the display result 3 designation command is performed (steps S112 and S113). When the probability variation big hit flag is not set, control for transmitting a display result 2 designation command is performed (step S114). Next, a total pending storage number subtraction designation command designating that the total pending storage number is subtracted by 1 is transmitted (step S115). Instead of transmitting the total pending storage number subtraction designation command, a total pending storage number designation command for designating the total pending storage number after subtraction may be transmitted.

  Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the first special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the first special symbol changing process (step S303) (step S116).

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing the first special symbol changing process (step S303) in the first special symbol process. In the first special symbol changing process, the CPU 56 decrements the variable time timer by 1 (step S121), and when the variable time timer times out (step S122), the value of the first special symbol process flag is set to the first special symbol stop process. The value is updated to a value corresponding to (Step S304) (Step S123). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process ends.

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the first special symbol stop process (step S304) in the first special symbol process. In the first special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 sets an end flag referred to in the special symbol display control process in step S33 to end the variation of the first special symbol, and displays the stop symbol on the first special symbol display 8a. Control to derive and display is performed (step S130), and the first changing flag is reset (step S131). Moreover, control which transmits the symbol determination designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for production control is performed (step S132). If the big hit flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S141 (step S133).

  When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability variation flag (step S134) and performs control to transmit the big hit start designation command (step S135). Specifically, if the probability variation jackpot flag is set, a jackpot start 2 designation command is transmitted, and if not, a jackpot start 1 designation command is transmitted.

  Also, a value corresponding to the big hit display time (time for notifying the fact that the big hit has occurred, for example, in the effect display device 9) is set in the big hit display time timer (step S136). Then, the value of the first special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the first big prize opening opening pre-processing (step S305) (step S137).

  In step S141, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction end flag is set. If the time reduction end flag is set, the time reduction end flag is reset and the time reduction flag is reset (steps S142 and S143). Then, the value of the first special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the first special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S144).

  In the first big winning opening opening pre-processing, when the big hit display time timer is set, the CPU 56 performs control for opening the big winning opening when the big winning display time timer times out, and the big winning opening opening time. A value corresponding to the opening time (for example, 29 seconds in the case of a normal big hit and a probable big hit) is set in the timer, and the value of the first special symbol process flag is set in the first big winning opening opening process (step S306). Update to the corresponding value. The case where the big hit display time timer is set is the case before the start of the first round. When the interval timer (timer for determining the interval time between rounds) is set, when the interval timer times out, control is performed to open the big prize opening and the opening time ( For example, in the case of a normal big hit and a probable big hit, a value corresponding to 29 seconds is set), and the value of the first special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the first big prize opening opening process (step S306). To do.

  In the first grand prize opening opening process, the CPU 56 ends the final round when the big prize opening time timer times out or the number of winning balls to the big prize opening reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10). If not, the control for closing the special winning opening is performed, the value corresponding to the interval time is set in the interval timer, and the value of the first special symbol process flag is set to the first special winning opening opening pre-processing (step S305). ) To a value corresponding to. When the final round ends, the value of the first special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the first big hit end process (step S307).

  FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing the first big hit end process (step S307) in the first special symbol process. In the first jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot end display timer is set (step S150). If the jackpot end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step S161. If the big hit end display timer is not set, a time reduction flag is set to shift the gaming state to the time reduction state (step S151), and 100 is set in the time reduction counter (step S152).

  Further, the big hit flag is reset (step S153), and control for transmitting a big hit end designation command is performed (step S154). If the probability variation jackpot flag is set, a jackpot end 2 designation command is transmitted. If the probability variation jackpot flag is not set, a jackpot termination 1 designation command is transmitted. If the probability variation jackpot flag is set, the probability variation jackpot flag is reset (steps S155 and S156), and the probability variation flag is set to shift the gaming state to the probability variation state (step S157). Then, a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the big hit end display is performed in the effect display device 9 (big hit end display time) is set in the big hit end display timer (step S158), and the processing is ended.

  In step S161, 1 is subtracted from the value of the big hit end display timer. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end display time has elapsed (step S162). If not, the process ends. If it has elapsed, the value of the first special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the first special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S163).

  FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing an example of a program of the second special symbol process (step S26B) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56). In the second special symbol process, a process for controlling the second special symbol indicator 8b and the special winning opening is executed.

  In the second special symbol process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S411). If the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 ends the process as it is. The jackpot flag has been determined to be a big hit based on the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol, has been shifted to the big hit gaming state based on the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol, A flag indicating that it has been determined that a big hit will be made based on the display result of the variation display of the second special symbol, or that it has been shifted to the big hit gaming state based on the display result of the variation display of the second special symbol is there. The big hit flag is set when it is determined that the big hit is determined in the first special symbol normal process or the second special symbol normal process, and is reset in the first big hit end process or the second big hit end process.

  If the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first changing flag is set (step S412). If the first changing flag is set, the CPU 56 ends the process as it is. The first changing flag is a flag indicating that the first special symbol is being changed. The first changing flag is set in the first special symbol normal process when the variable display of the first special symbol is executed, and is reset in the first special symbol stop process when the variable display of the first special symbol is stopped. The

  If the second changing flag is not set, the CPU 56 performs any one of steps S400 to S407 according to the value of the second special symbol process flag. The processes in steps S400 to S407 are as follows. Note that, due to the processing in steps S411 and S412, the change of the second special symbol is not started during the big hit game and the change of the first special symbol.

  Second special symbol normal process (step S400): executed when the value of the second special symbol process flag is zero. When the game control microcomputer 560 is in a state where variable display of the second special symbol can be started, the game control microcomputer 560 checks the second reserved memory number (start prize memory number). The second reserved memory number can be confirmed by the count value of the reserved memory number counter. If the second reserved storage number is not 0, it is determined whether or not to make a big hit. Then, the internal state (second special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) corresponding to step S401.

  Second variation pattern setting process (step S401): This process is executed when the value of the second special symbol process flag is 1. The stop symbol after the variable display of the second special symbol is determined. Also, the variation pattern is determined, and the variation time in the variation pattern (variable display time: the time from the start of variable display until the display result is derived and displayed (stopped display)) Decide to be time. Also, a variation time timer for measuring the variation time of the second special symbol is started. Then, the internal state (second special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) corresponding to step S402.

  Second display result specifying command transmission process (step S402): This process is executed when the value of the second special symbol process flag is 2. Control for transmitting a display result specifying command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (second special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (3 in this example) corresponding to step S403.

  Second special symbol changing process (step S403): This process is executed when the value of the second special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the second variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in step S401 times out, that is, the variation time timer value becomes 0), the internal state (second special symbol process) Flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S404 (4 in this example).

  Second special symbol stop process (step S404): executed when the value of the second special symbol process flag is 4. The variable display on the second special symbol display 8b is stopped and the stop symbol is derived and displayed. In addition, control for transmitting a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed. If the big hit flag is set, the internal state (second special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S405. When the big hit flag is not set, the internal state (second special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S400 (in this example, 0). The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the effect symbol (decoration symbol) when the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560 is received.

  Pre-opening process for second big prize opening (step S405): executed when the value of the second special symbol process flag is 5. In the second grand prize opening opening pre-process, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Further, the execution time of the special winning opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (second special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S406 (6 in this example). Note that the pre-opening process for the second big winning opening is executed for each round, but when starting the first round, the pre-opening process for the second big winning opening is also a process for starting the big hit game.

  Second big prize opening opening process (step S406): This process is executed when the value of the second special symbol process flag is 6. A control for transmitting an effect control command for round display during the big hit gaming state to the effect control microcomputer 100, a process for confirming the completion of the closing condition of the big prize opening, and the like are performed. If the closing condition for the big prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (second special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S405 (5 in this example). When all the rounds are finished, the internal state (second special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S407 (7 in this example).

  Second big hit end process (step S407): executed when the value of the second special symbol process flag is 7. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Further, a process for setting a flag (for example, a probability variation flag) indicating a gaming state is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S400.

  Note that the second special symbol process processing program is configured in the same manner as the first special symbol process processing program. That is, if “first” in the first special symbol process is read as “second” and “first” is read as “first” in the first special symbol process, the second special symbol process is explained. Will be.

  However, the second special symbol normal process in the second special symbol process is slightly different from the first special symbol normal process, and will be described below.

  39 and 40 are flowcharts showing the second special symbol normal process (step S400) in the second special symbol process. In the second special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 checks the value of the second reserved memory number (step S450). Specifically, the count value of the second reserved memory number counter is confirmed. Note that other methods may be used as long as the presence or absence of the second reserved memory number can be confirmed, for example, by confirming whether or not data such as a random number is stored in the storage area in the second reserved memory buffer. If the second reserved memory number is 0, the process is terminated.

  If the second reserved memory number is not 0, the CPU 56 reads out each random value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved memory number = 1 in the second reserved memory buffer of the RAM 55 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. (Step S452). Also, the value of the second reserved memory number is decreased by 1 (the count value of the second reserved memory number counter is decremented by 1), and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S453). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the second reserved memory buffer of the RAM 55 is expressed as the second reserved memory number = n−1. Store in the storage area corresponding to. Therefore, the order in which each random number value stored in each storage area corresponding to each second reserved memory number is extracted always matches the order of the second reserved memory number = 1, 2, 3, 4. It is like that.

  Then, the CPU 56 decreases the value of the total pending storage number by one. That is, 1 is subtracted from the count value of the total pending storage number counter (step S454).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes a big hit determination process (step S461). In the big hit determination process, a predetermined big hit determination value (see FIG. 7) is compared with a random number for random determination (random R), and if they match, it is determined to be a big hit (normal big hit or probability variable big hit). It is processing. In step S461, the CPU 56 executes the subroutine shown in FIG.

  When the big hit is not made, that is, when the big hit flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S471 (step S462). When the big hit flag is set, the big hit symbol determination process is executed (step S463), the second changing flag indicating that the second special symbol is changing is set (step S477), and the second The value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the second variation pattern setting process (step S4301) (step S478).

  In step S471, a missing symbol determination process is performed. Further, when the time reduction flag indicating the time reduction state is set, the value of the time reduction number counter indicating the number of times the special symbol can be changed in the time reduction state is decremented by 1 (steps S472 and S73). When the value of the time reduction counter becomes 0, a time reduction end flag is set to shift the gaming state to the non-time reduction state when the variable display ends (steps S474 and S75). Then, control goes to a step S477.

  The jackpot determination process (step S461) in the second special symbol determination process is the same process as the jackpot determination process (step S61) in the first special symbol determination process. That is, the process (routine) shown in FIG. 25 is also executed in the second special symbol determination process. In other words, the process for pre-determining whether or not to win is common to the first special symbol and the second special symbol.

  Also, the jackpot symbol determining process (step S 463) and the missed symbol determining process (step S 471) in the second special symbol determining process (step S 463) and the missing symbol determining process (step S 471) in the first special symbol determining process (step S 471). This is the same processing as S71). That is, the process (routine) shown in FIGS. 27 and 29 is also executed in the second special symbol determination process. In other words, the process for predetermining the stop symbol of the special symbol is common to the first special symbol and the second special symbol.

  The second variation pattern setting process is configured in the same manner as the first variation pattern setting process (see FIG. 30) in the first special symbol process. Therefore, the variation pattern determination process in the second variation pattern setting process is realized by executing the processes shown in FIGS. However, as described above, the game control microcomputer 560 performs the reach determination table shown in FIG. 8A during the execution of the first special symbol process in the variation pattern determination process shown in FIGS. During the execution of the second special symbol process, the reach determination table shown in FIG. 8B is used.

  Further, it is a timer used for determining the passage of the variation time of the first special symbol, which is set in step S106 in the first variation pattern setting process (see FIG. 30), and the first special symbol variation processing ( The variation time timer (specifically, the area used as the timer in the RAM 54) subjected to the subtraction process in FIG. 35) is the second special pattern variation process and the second special symbol variation process. Used to determine the passage of symbol variation time. That is, the variable time timer is shared by the first special symbol process and the second special symbol process.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) as effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (step S701). . Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring a timer interrupt flag (step S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the following effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and performs a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704). Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the effect display device 9 is executed.

  Next, a random number update process for updating a count value of a counter for generating a random number such as a jackpot symbol determining random number is executed (step S706). Further, a hold storage display control process for controlling the display state of the combined hold storage display unit 18c is executed (step S707). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  FIG. 42 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command reception buffer for storing the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 of the main board 31. In this example, a command reception buffer of a ring buffer type capable of storing six 2-byte configuration effect control commands is used. Therefore, the command reception buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of reception command buffers 1 to 12. A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. The ring buffer format is not necessarily required.

  The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal, and is stored in a buffer area formed in the RAM. In the command analysis process, it is analyzed which command (see FIG. 15) the effect control command stored in the buffer area is.

  43 to 45 are flowcharts showing specific examples of command analysis processing (step S704). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms the content of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

  In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S611). 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. When the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer (step S612). When read, the value of the read pointer is incremented by +2 (step S613). The reason for +2 is that 2 bytes (1 command) are read at a time.

  If the received effect control command is a variation pattern command (step S614), the effect control CPU 101 stores the variation pattern command in a variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM (step S615). Then, a variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S616).

  If the received effect control command is a display result specifying command (step S617), the effect control CPU 101 executes the display result specifying command (display result 1 specifying command, display result 2 specifying command or display result 3 specifying command). The display result specifying command storage area formed in the RAM is stored (step S618).

  If the received effect control command is a symbol confirmation designation command (step S621), the effect control CPU 101 sets a confirmed command reception flag (step S622).

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot start 1 designation command or a jackpot start 2 designation command (step S623), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot start 1 designation command reception flag or a jackpot start 2 designation command reception flag ( Step S624).

  If the received effect control command is the first symbol variation designation command (step S625), the first symbol variation designation command reception flag is set (step S626). If the received effect control command is the second symbol variation designation command (step S627), the second symbol variation designation command reception flag is set (step S628).

  If the received effect control command is a power-on specification command (initialization specification command) (step S631), the effect control CPU 101 displays an initial screen on the effect display device 9 indicating that the initialization process has been executed. Control is performed (step S632). The initial screen includes an initial display of predetermined production symbols.

  If the received effect control command is a power failure recovery designation command (step S633), a predetermined power failure recovery screen (screen for displaying information notifying the player that the gaming state is continuing) is displayed. Display control is performed (step S634), and a power failure recovery flag is set (step S635).

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot end 1 designation command (step S641), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot end 1 designation command reception flag (step S642). If the received effect control command is a jackpot end 2 designation command (step S643), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot end 2 designation command reception flag (step S644).

  If the received presentation control command is a combined pending storage number designation command (step S651), the presentation control CPU 101 uses the second byte data (EXT data) of the combined pending storage number designation command as a combined pending storage number storage area. (Step S652).

  If the received effect control command is the first start winning designation command (step S653), the effect control CPU 101 sets the first start winning flag (step S654). If the received effect control command is the second start winning designation command (step S655), the effect control CPU 101 sets the second start winning flag (step S656). If the received effect control command is a combined pending storage number subtraction designation command (step S657), the effect control CPU 101 sets a combined pending storage number subtraction designation command reception flag (step S658).

  If the received effect control command is another command, the effect control CPU 101 sets a flag according to the received effect control command (step S659). Then, control goes to a step S611.

  FIG. 46 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a display state of the summation pending storage display unit 18c. In FIGS. 46A and 46B, the number of circles (circles: maximum 8) corresponding to the total number of pending storages is displayed in each of the pending storages in the total pending storage display unit 18c. The effect control microcomputer 100 causes the VDP 109 to display a circle so that the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory can be distinguished. For example, a circle corresponding to the first reserved memory is displayed in red, and a circle corresponding to the second reserved memory is displayed in green.

  As shown in FIG. 11 (B), in the total reserved storage display unit 18c, the left side is a first reserved memory number display area (consisting of four circles) for displaying the first reserved memory number. The right side is a second reserved memory number display area (consisting of four circle portions) for displaying the second reserved memory number.

  FIG. 46 (C) shows an example of the display state of the total pending storage display unit 18c at the time of power failure recovery. As shown in FIG. 46C, at the time of power failure recovery, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a total pending memory number designation command in which the value of the total pending memory number counter stored in the backup RAM is set. In response to receiving the total pending storage number designation command, the control microcomputer 100 causes the total pending storage display unit 18c to display a number of stars corresponding to the total pending storage number. FIG. 46D shows an example of the display state of the total pending storage display unit 18c when the total pending storage number designation command is received from the game control microcomputer 560 but the start winning designation command cannot be received. ing. As shown in FIG. 46 (D), when the start winning designation command cannot be received, a blue circle is displayed on the combined suspension storage display unit 18c.

  As shown in FIG. 46C, at the time of power failure recovery, the production control microcomputer 100 displays a display corresponding to the original first reserved memory (first start winning memory) (in this example, a red circle is displayed). ) And the display corresponding to the second reserved memory (second start-up winning memory) (in this example, the display of the green circle) is a display of the number specified by the total reserved memory number designation command (this In the example, an asterisk) is displayed on the summed hold storage display unit 18c. Therefore, it becomes possible to easily grasp that the gaming state has been restored by using the display of the total suspension storage display unit 18c. In addition, if the display mode of the summed hold storage display unit 18c at the time of power failure recovery is different from the display mode corresponding to the original first hold memory and the display mode corresponding to the second hold memory, this embodiment. It is not restricted to changing the shape of the displayed image. For example, the color may be changed without changing the shape, or the size may be changed.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 46D, when the start winning designation command cannot be received, the effect control microcomputer 100 displays the display corresponding to the original first reserved memory (in this example, a red circle). The image corresponding to the increased reserved memory is displayed in a different manner from the display corresponding to the second reserved memory (in this example, the display of the green circle). Therefore, it is possible to easily grasp that an abnormality has occurred with respect to transmission / reception of the effect control command (in this example, the start winning designation command). In addition, since the display mode of the total pending storage display unit 18c when the start winning designation command cannot be received is different from the display mode corresponding to the original first reserved memory and the display mode corresponding to the second reserved memory. If there is, it is not limited to changing the color of the displayed image as in this embodiment. For example, the shape may be changed without changing the color, or the size may be changed.

  FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs one of steps S800 to S806 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed. In the effect control process, the display state of the effect display device 9 is controlled and variable display of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) is realized. However, the effect symbol (decoration symbol) synchronized with the variation of the first special symbol is realized. Control related to variable display and control related to variable display of effect symbols (decorative symbols) synchronized with the variation of the second special symbol are executed in one effect control process.

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

  Effect symbol variation start processing (step S801): Control is performed so that the variation of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (step S802).

  Production symbol variation processing (step S802): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern and monitors the end of the variation time. When the variation time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803).

  Effect symbol variation stop processing (step S803): Based on the reception of the effect control command (design determination designation command) for instructing all symbols to stop, the variation of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) is stopped and the display result (stop symbol) Control to derive and display. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) or the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  Big hit display process (step S804): After the end of the variation time, control is performed to display a screen for notifying the effect display device 9 of the occurrence of the big hit. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (step S805).

  Big hit game processing (step S805): Control during big hit game is performed. For example, when a special winning opening opening designation command or a special winning opening open designation command is received, display control of the number of rounds in the effect display device 9 is performed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit end process (step S806).

  Big hit end processing (step S806): In the effect display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  FIG. 48 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S811). If the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variation pattern command reception flag is reset (step S812). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S813).

  FIG. 49 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 reads the variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (step S820). Next, the display result (stop symbol) of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) is determined according to the data stored in the display result identification command storage area (that is, the received display result identification command) (step S821). The effect control CPU 101 stores data indicating the determined effect stop symbols in the effect symbol display result storage area.

  FIG. 50 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a stop symbol of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) in the effect display device 9. In the example shown in FIG. 50, when the received display result specifying command indicates a normal jackpot (when the received display result specifying command is a display result 2 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 uses the stop design as a stop symbol. A combination of effect symbols in which the three symbols are even-numbered symbols (a stop symbol that usually reminds of the occurrence of a big hit) is determined. When the received display result specifying command indicates a probable big hit (when the received display result specifying command is a display result 3 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 uses an odd symbol (probability variable) as a stop symbol. The combination of effect symbols arranged in a stop symbol reminiscent of the occurrence of a big hit) is determined. And in the case of detachment (when the received display result specifying command is a display result 1 designation command), a combination of effect symbols other than the above is determined. However, when a reach effect is involved, a combination of effect symbols in which two left and right symbols are aligned is determined. The combination of the three symbols derived and displayed on the effect display device 9 is the “stop symbol” of the effect symbol (decoration symbol).

  The effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for determining the stop symbol, and uses the stop symbol determination table in which the data indicating the combination of effect symbols and numerical values are associated with each other to generate the stop symbol of the effect symbol. decide. That is, the stop symbol is determined by selecting data indicating the combination of effect symbols corresponding to the numerical value matching the extracted random number.

  As for the effect symbols, a stop symbol that recalls a big hit is called a big hit symbol. In addition, a stop symbol reminiscent of a probable big hit is called a probable big hit symbol, and a stop symbol reminiscent of a normal big hit is called a normal big hit symbol. And a stop symbol that reminds of a loss is called a loss symbol.

  Next, the production control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the variation pattern (step S822). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S823).

  FIG. 51 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the process table. The process table is a table in which process data referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls effect devices (effect components) such as the effect display device 9 according to the process data set in the process table. The process table includes data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data are collected. The display control execution data includes data indicating each variation mode constituting the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the effect symbol (decoration symbol). Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. The process timer set value is set with a change time in the form of the change. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table and performs control to display the effect design in the variation mode set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value.

  The process table shown in FIG. 51 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. A process table is prepared for each variation pattern.

  In addition, in the process table used when effect control is executed for a variation pattern with reach effect, the left symbol is stopped when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the variation, and the right symbol is stopped when a predetermined time further elapses. Process data indicating that it is to be displayed is set.

  In addition, the CPU 101 for effect control, according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1), effects device (effect display device 9 as an effect component, effect component as an effect component) Control of various lamps and speakers 27R, 27L as effect parts is executed (step S824). For example, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image according to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the audio output board 70 in order to output audio from the speakers 27R and 27L.

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

  Then, a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command is set in the variation time timer (step S825), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (step S802). (Step S826).

  FIG. 52 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation in-process (step S802) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation process, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S841) and subtracts 1 from the value of the variation time timer (step S842). When the process timer times out (step S843), the process data is switched. That is, the process timer setting value set next in the process table is set in the process timer (step S844). Further, the control state for the rendering device is changed based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data set next (step S845).

  If the variation time timer has timed out (step S846), the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803) (step S848). Even if the variable time timer has not timed out, if the confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (step S847), the process proceeds to step S848. Even if the variation time timer has not timed out, if the symbol confirmation designation command is received, the process shifts to control to stop variation.For example, a variation pattern command indicating a long variation time due to noise between substrates is received. Even in such a case, it is possible to end the variation of the effect symbol when the regular variation time has elapsed (when the variation of the special symbol ends).

  FIG. 53 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation stop process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the confirmed command reception flag is set (step S851). If the confirmed command reception flag is set, the confirmed command reception flag is reset. In step S852, control is performed to derive and display the stop symbol in accordance with the data (data indicating the stop symbol) stored in the effect symbol display result storage area (step S853). Also, a decorative symbol variation end flag is set (step S854). Then, the production control CPU 101 confirms whether or not it is determined to be a big hit (step S855). Whether or not it is determined to be a big hit is confirmed by, for example, a display result specifying command stored in the display result specifying command storage area. In this embodiment, it can be confirmed whether or not it is determined to be a big hit based on the determined stop symbol.

  If it is determined to be a big hit, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit display process (step S804) (step S856).

  If it is determined not to win, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S857).

  In this embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 ends the variation (variable display) of the production symbol (decoration symbol) on the condition that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received (see steps S851 and S853). . However, when the variation time timer based on the received variation pattern command times out, the variation of the effect symbol (decorative symbol) may be controlled without receiving the symbol determination designation command. In this case, the game control microcomputer 560 may not transmit the symbol confirmation designation command for designating the end of variable display.

  FIG. 54 is a flowchart showing the jackpot display process (step S804) in the effect control process. In the jackpot display processing, whether or not the effect control CPU 101 has set a jackpot start 1 designation command reception flag or a jackpot start 2 designation command reception flag indicating that the jackpot start 1 designation command or jackpot start 2 designation command has been received. Confirmation is made (step S871). When the jackpot start 1 designation command reception flag or the jackpot start 2 designation command reception flag is set, control is performed to display a game start screen corresponding to the set flag on the effect display device 9 (step S872). . Also, the set flag (big hit start 1 designation command reception flag or big hit start 2 designation command reception flag) is reset (step S873). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (step S805) (step S874).

  In step S872, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to display on the effect display device 9 a screen for informing the start of the big hit game.

  FIG. 55 is a flowchart showing the big hit end process (step S806) in the effect control process. In the jackpot end process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the jackpot end effect timer is set (step S880). If the big hit end effect timer is set, the process proceeds to step S885. If the jackpot end effect timer is not set, a jackpot end designation command reception flag (a jackpot end 1 designation command reception flag or a jackpot end 2 designation command reception flag) indicating that the jackpot termination designation command has been received is set. It is confirmed whether or not there is (step S881). When the jackpot end designation command reception flag is set, the jackpot end designation command reception flag (the jackpot end 1 designation command reception flag or the jackpot end 2 designation command reception flag) is reset (step S882), and the jackpot end presentation timer A value corresponding to the jackpot end display time is set (step S883), and a control for displaying a jackpot end screen (screen for informing the end of the jackpot game) on the effect display device 9 is performed (step S884). Specifically, an instruction to display the big hit end screen is given to the VDP 109.

  In step S885, 1 is subtracted from the value of the big hit end effect timer. Then, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end effect timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end effect time has elapsed (step S886). If not, the process ends. If the jackpot end effect time has elapsed and the jackpot end 1 designation command has been received, the probability variation state flag is reset (steps S886, S889, S891). When the jackpot end 1 designation command has not been received (when the jackpot end 2 designation command has been received), the probability variation state flag is set (steps S889, S890). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S892).

  The probability change state flag and the time-short state flag are used, for example, when the effect control CPU 101 notifies the probability change state and the time-short state by a background or a decorative light emitter (lamp / LED) in the effect display device 9.

  56 to 58 are flowcharts showing the hold storage display control process (step S707) in the effect control main process. The hold memory display control process manages the first hold memory number, the second hold memory number, and the sum hold memory number in the effect control means, and the first hold number display area of the sum hold memory display unit 18c in the effect display device 9. And a process for controlling the display of the second reserved number display area (see FIG. 11).

  In the hold memory display control process, the effect control CPU 101 stores the data in the sum hold memory number storage area in which the second byte data (EXT data) of the sum hold memory number designation command is stored in the sum hold memory number counter. It is confirmed whether it is larger than the value (step S901). If the data in the total pending storage number storage area is not greater than the value of the total pending storage number counter, the process proceeds to step S941.

  The fact that the data in the total pending storage count storage area is larger than the value of the total pending storage count counter means that a new total pending storage count designation command has been received. When the power is turned on, the value of the total pending storage number counter is 0 by the initialization process in step S701.

  When the data in the total reserved memory number storage area is larger than the value of the total reserved memory number counter, whether or not the production control CPU 101 has a power failure recovery flag indicating that a power failure recovery designation command has been received is set. Confirmation is made (step S902). If the power failure recovery flag is set, the power failure recovery flag is reset (step S903), and the number of stars corresponding to the data (value) in the total pending storage number storage area is displayed in the total pending storage display unit 18c. It is displayed (step S904). That is, the number of star images stored in the total reserved storage number storage area is displayed (see FIG. 46C). In this embodiment, priority is given to the display in the second reserved number display area (see FIG. 11). That is, in the example shown in FIG. 46C, the star image corresponding to the first to fourth reserved memories is displayed in the second reserved number display area, and the star image corresponding to the fifth reserved memory is displayed. Is displayed in the first hold number display area. However, the display in the first hold number display area (see FIG. 11) may be prioritized.

  Further, the production control CPU 101 sets the data (value) in the total reserved memory number storage area in the unknown start winning memory number counter (step S905). The unknown start winning memory number counter is a counter formed in the RAM, and is a counter for counting the number of reserved memories that are unknown whether the reserved memory corresponding to the first starting prize or the reserved memory corresponding to the second starting prize is unknown. It is. Hereinafter, the reserved memory in which the reserved memory corresponding to the first start prize or the reserved memory corresponding to the second start prize is unknown is referred to as unknown reserved memory.

  Further, in the total pending storage table, the number of data corresponding to the data (value) in the total pending storage number storage area is changed to data indicating “unknown” (step S906). The total hold storage table is a table formed in the RAM, and whether each hold storage is a hold storage corresponding to the first start prize, a hold memory corresponding to the second start prize, or whether it is unknown. This is a table in which data indicating is set.

  Then, the data in the total pending memory count storage area (the total pending memory count specified by the total pending memory count designation command from the game control microcomputer 560) is set in the total pending memory count counter (step S907).

  When the power failure recovery flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the first start winning flag indicating that the first start winning designation command has been received is set (step S909). If the first start winning flag is set, the first starting winning flag is reset (step S910), the number of circles displayed in the first hold number display area in the total hold storage display unit 18c is increased by 1, and Control is performed so that the increased circle is displayed in red (step S911). Further, the value of the first start winning counter is incremented by 1 (step S912), and the data corresponding to the data (value) in the total reserved storage number storage area is set to data indicating “first” in the total pending storage table (step S912). S913). For example, if the data in the total pending storage number storage area is “5”, the fifth data in the total pending storage table is set to data indicating “first”. That is, the data corresponding to the increased reserved storage is set to data indicating “first”.

  Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the first start winning counter has reached the upper limit “4” (step S914). If it is not “4”, the process proceeds to step S907. If it is “4”, it is checked whether or not the value of the unknown start winning counter is 0 (step S915). If the value of the unknown start winning counter is 0, the process proceeds to step S907. If the value of the unknown start winning counter is not 0 at this stage, it means that the number of unknown reserved memories indicated by the value of the unknown start winning counter is actually a reserved memory based on the second start winning prize. Because the upper limit number of the first reserved memory number is 4 and the value of the first start winning counter is 4, other reserved memories (the number of reserved memories exceeding 4) are the first start winning prizes. This is because it is not based on the reserved memory. That is, the other reserved memory is a reserved memory based on the second start winning prize.

  Therefore, when the value of the unknown start winning counter is not 0, the effect control CPU 101 deletes the star displayed on the combined hold storage display unit 18c and makes the second start winning in the second hold number display area. The corresponding green circle is increased by one (step S916). Further, the data indicating “unknown” in the total pending storage table is changed to data indicating “second” (step S917). Further, the value of the unknown start winning counter is set to 0 (step S918), and the value of the second starting winning counter is updated (step S919). In step S919, the value of the unknown start winning counter before being set to 0 is added to the value of the second starting winning counter. Then, control goes to a step S907.

  By performing such control, an abnormality occurs in the transmission / reception of the production control command, an unknown hold memory is generated, and when the display corresponding to the unknown hold memory is displayed on the total hold memory display unit 18c, the display is normal. Display can be restored.

  If the first start winning flag is not set, it is confirmed whether the second starting winning flag is set (step S921). If the second start winning flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S931. If the second start winning flag is set, the second starting winning flag is reset (step S922), and the number of circles displayed in the second hold number display area of the total hold storage display unit 18c is increased by one. In addition, control is performed so that the increased circle is displayed in green (step S923). Further, the value of the second start winning counter is incremented by 1 (step S924), and the data corresponding to the data (value) in the total reserved storage number storage area is set to data indicating “second” in the total pending storage table (step S924). S925).

  Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the second start winning counter has reached the upper limit “4” (step S926). If it is not “4”, the process proceeds to step S935. If it is “4”, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the unknown start winning counter is 0 (step S927). When the value of the unknown start winning counter is 0, the process proceeds to step S935. When the value of the unknown start winning counter is not 0, the effect control CPU 101 deletes the star displayed on the combined hold storage display unit 18c and responds to the first start winning in the first hold number display area. The red circle is incremented by 1 (step S928). Further, the data indicating “unknown” in the total pending storage table is changed to data indicating “first” (step S929). Further, the value of the unknown start winning counter is set to 0 (step S930), and the value of the first starting winning counter is updated (step S934). In step S934, the value of the unknown start winning counter before being set to 0 is added to the value of the first starting winning counter. Then, control goes to a step S935.

  In step S935, the data in the total pending storage number storage area is set in the total pending storage number counter.

  In step S931, the CPU 101 for effect control performs control so that the number of displays in the total suspension storage display unit 18c is increased by 1, and the increased display is displayed in blue. Further, the value of the unknown start winning counter is incremented by 1 (step S932), and the data corresponding to the data (value) in the total reserved storage number storage area is set to data indicating “unknown” in the total pending storage table (step S933). . Then, control goes to a step S935.

  In step S941, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the total pending storage number subtraction designation command reception flag is set. If the total pending storage number subtraction designation command reception flag is set, the total pending storage number subtraction designation command reception flag is reset (step S942).

  Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the second start winning counter is 0 (step S943). If the value of the second start winning counter is 0, the process proceeds to step S947.

  In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 performs control so that the second reserved memory is preferentially consumed. That is, when the second reserved memory number is not 0, the second special symbol is changed to decrease the second reserved memory number regardless of the value of the first reserved memory number. Further, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a total reserved memory number subtraction designation command when the reserved memory number is decremented by 1 (when variable symbol special display is started) (steps S53, S55 and FIG. 23). (See step S115 in FIG. 34). Therefore, when the production control means receives the total pending storage number subtraction designation command when the value of the second start winning counter is not 0, it means that the variation of the second special symbol has started. Therefore, when the combined pending storage number subtraction designation command reception flag is set and the value of the second start winning counter is not 0, the processing after step S944 is executed, and the production control means side manages it. 2 Control to reduce the number of reserved storage.

  When the value of the second start winning counter is not 0, the value of the second starting winning counter is decremented by -1 (step S944), and the number of circles displayed in the second reserved number display area of the total reserved storage display unit 18c is set. Decrease by 1 (step S945). Further, the oldest “second” data in the summation pending storage table is erased, and the data in the summation pending storage table is shifted (step S946). Also, the value of the total pending storage number counter is decremented by -1 (step S961), and the value of the total pending storage number counter is set in the total pending storage number storage area (step S962).

  In step S947, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the value of the first start winning counter is zero. If the value of the first start winning counter is not 0, the value of the first starting winning counter is decremented by -1 (step S948), and the number of circles displayed in the first hold number display area of the total hold storage display unit 18c is set. Decrease by 1 (step S949). Further, the oldest “first” data in the summation pending storage table is erased, and the data in the summation pending storage table is shifted (step S950). Then, control goes to a step S961.

  When the value of the first start prize counter is 0, the effect control CPU 101 decrements the unknown start prize counter value by -1 (step S951), and sets the number of circles displayed in the total suspension storage display unit 18c to 1. Decrease (step S952). Further, the oldest “unknown” data in the total pending storage table is deleted, and the data in the total pending storage table is shifted (step S953). Then, control goes to a step S961.

  The effect control CPU 101 decrements the number of circles displayed in the arbitrary sum storage storage display unit 18c by 1 in the process of step S952. When the process of step S952 is executed, the value of the second start prize counter and the value of the first start prize counter are both 0, and one or more circles displayed on the total pending storage display unit 18c are This is because it is unclear whether it corresponds to the second reserved memory or the first reserved memory, and any of them should be deleted.

  By the control as described above, the red circle is incremented by 1 when the first start winning designation command and the total pending storage designation command are received in the total pending storage display unit 18c, and the second start winning designation command and the total are displayed. Control is executed to increase the green circle by 1 when a pending storage number designation command is received. Further, when the total pending storage number designation command is received but neither the first start prize designation command nor the second start prize designation command is received, control for increasing the blue circle by one is realized. When the total pending storage number subtraction designation command is received, the circle or star displayed in the total pending storage display unit 18c is decremented by one.

  59 to 61 are explanatory diagrams illustrating examples of data set in the summation pending storage table and display examples of the summation pending storage display unit 18c. The array of “data” (for example, first → first → second → first array in FIG. 59A) shown in FIGS. 59 to 61 is an array of “data” in the RAM. It does not correspond to the actual display order shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 11 and FIG. 46, in the total pending storage display unit 18c, the first reserved storage (first start winning) is displayed in the first reserved number display area, and the second reserved storage (second The display indicating the start prize is made in the second reserved number display area.

  In FIGS. 59 to 61, red circles and the like are written, but only “data” shown in FIGS. 59 to 61 may be set in the total storage table. In this embodiment, the total pending storage table is used, but without using the total pending storage table, the first starting winning counter, the second starting winning counter, the unknown starting winning counter, and the total pending storage counter It is also possible to control the total pending storage number display only by the above.

  FIG. 59A shows an example when the process of step S913 is executed. That is, an example is shown in the case where the reserved memory based on the first start winning memory is increased. FIG. 59B shows an example when the process of step S933 is executed. That is, an example is shown in which it is unclear whether the first start winning memory or the second starting winning memory is based, but the reserved memory increases. FIG. 59 (C) shows an example of the case where the processes of steps S913 and S916 are executed. That is, an example is shown in which the hold memory based on the first start winning memory is increased and the value of the first start winning counter is “4”.

  FIG. 60D shows an example when the process of step S946 is executed. That is, based on the reception of the second start winning designation command and the total pending storage number subtraction designation command, the oldest “second” data in the total pending storage table is deleted, and the data in the total pending storage table is shifted. An example is shown. FIG. 60E shows an example when the processing of steps S904 and S906 is executed. That is, based on the receipt of the total pending storage number designation command together with the power failure recovery designation command, a number of stars corresponding to the data (value) in the total pending storage number storage area is displayed on the total pending storage display unit 18c, An example in which the number of pieces of data corresponding to the data (value) in the total reserved storage number storage area is set as data indicating “unknown” in the total pending storage table.

  FIG. 60 (F) shows an example of a case where a combined pending storage number designation command is received after receiving a combined pending storage count designation command together with a power failure recovery designation command. In the example shown in FIG. 60 (F), after the total pending storage number designation command is received together with the power failure recovery designation command, the total pending storage number designation command is received together with the second start prize designation command, and the processes of steps S923 and S925 are performed. It is an example when it is executed.

  When the total pending storage number designation command is received together with the power failure recovery designation command, data as shown on the left side of FIG. 60 (F) is set in the total pending storage table, and the total pending storage display section 18c has 4 Two star signs are displayed. Thereafter, when the total pending storage number designation command is received together with the second start prize designation command, the total pending storage display section 18c displays the normal second start prize (NO5). (Circle display in the second reserved number display area).

  FIG. 61 (G) shows an example of a case where a combined pending storage number designation command is received after receiving a combined pending storage count designation command together with a power failure recovery designation command. In the example shown in FIG. 61 (G), after the total pending storage number designation command is received together with the power failure recovery designation command, the total pending storage number designation command is received together with the first start prize designation command, and the processes of steps S911 and S913 are performed. It is an example when it is executed.

  When the total pending storage number designation command is received together with the power failure recovery designation command, data as shown on the left side of FIG. 61 (G) is set in the total pending storage table, and the total pending storage display section 18c has 4 Two stars are displayed, but when the total pending storage number designation command is received together with the first start prize designation command, the regular pending first start prize is displayed on the total pending storage display portion 18c (NO5). (Circle display in the first reserved number display area).

  FIG. 61 (H) shows an example in the case where the total pending storage number designation command is received together with the second start winning designation command in the state shown on the left side (the same as the state shown on the right side of FIG. 61 (G)). In that case, a display about the regular second start winning (display corresponding to NO6 and a circle display in the second reserved number display area) is made.

  As described above, after the total pending storage number designation command is transmitted together with the power failure recovery designation command, display capable of specifying the first pending memory number and the second pending memory number can be normally performed. It should be noted that when it is determined whether the start winning prize corresponds to the display (star) that is unclear as to whether it corresponds to the first starting prize or the second starting prize, It may be changed to (green circle). For example, you may make it change according to reception of a symbol fluctuation designation | designated command (special symbol specific command).

Embodiment 2. FIG.
In the first embodiment (Embodiment 1), as shown in FIG. 8, when the variation of the first special symbol is performed, compared to the case where the variation of the second special symbol is performed, It was decided to reach a high percentage. That is, when the variation of the first special symbol is performed, the reach probability is controlled to be higher than when the variation of the second special symbol is performed. However, when the variation of the second special symbol is performed, the reach probability may be increased as compared with the case where the variation of the first special symbol is performed.

  FIG. 62 is a diagram illustrating an example of a reach determination table used when control is performed so that the reach probability is higher when the second special symbol is changed than when the first special symbol is changed. FIG.

  62A shows a reach determination table used when the first special symbol variation (variable display) is executed, and FIG. 62B shows the second special symbol variation (variable display). The reach determination table used when () is executed is shown. The CPU 56 compares the reach determination random number value with the reach determination value, and determines to reach when the reach determination random number value matches any one of the reach determination values. Specifically, the CPU 56 executes the variation pattern determination process shown in FIGS. 31 to 33 in the first special symbol process and the second special symbol process as in the case of the first embodiment. As a result, the reach can be selected based on the reach probability shown in FIG.

Embodiment 3 FIG.
FIG. 63 is a flowchart showing effect control process processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 in the third embodiment (Embodiment 3). In this embodiment, unlike the effect control process (see FIG. 47) in the first embodiment, between the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) and the effect symbol change start process (step S801). Then, a notice selection process (step S800B) for determining whether or not to execute the notice effect is executed. The notice effect is an effect executed in the effect display device 9 during the change of the effect symbol (decorative symbol), and is used to notify in advance that the display result of the effect symbol (decorative symbol) becomes a big hit symbol. Production. In addition, in synchronism with the notice effect in the effect display device 9, effects by the light emitters and speakers 27R and 27L are also executed. Further, the notice effect may be executed even when the display result of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) does not become a big hit symbol.

  FIG. 64A is an explanatory diagram showing the execution timing of the notice effect, and FIG. 64B is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the notice effect in the effect display device 9. As shown in FIG. 64 (B), when the notice effect is executed when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, the first notice effect is executed. Further, when the notice effect is executed when the variable display of the second special symbol is performed, the second notice effect different from the first notice effect is executed. In the example shown in FIG. 64A, when the reach effect is executed, the notice effect is executed during the reach effect period. Note that a notice effect may be executed during the high-speed fluctuation period shown in FIG.

  FIG. 65 is an explanatory diagram showing a notice selection table used when the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not to execute the notice effect. The notice selection table is stored in the ROM of the effect control microcomputer 100. In the notice selection table, a determination value to be compared with the notice determination random number is set. The effect control CPU 101 determines to execute the notice effect when the value of the random number for notice determination matches any of the determination values.

  FIG. 65A shows a notice selection table at the time of no reach that is used when the display result of the effect design (decorative design) is not a big hit design and is not reached, and FIG. The notice selection table at the time of the big hit used when the display result of the effect design (decorative design) is made a big hit is shown.

  FIGS. 65 (C) and 65 (D) show a notice selection table when there is a reach, which is used when reaching, although the display result of the effect symbol (decorative symbol) is not a big hit symbol. The notice selection table shown in FIG. 65 (C) is used at the time of the change of the effect symbol (decorative symbol) when the variable display of the first special symbol is executed by the first special symbol display 8a. The notice selection table shown in FIG. 5 is used when the effect symbol (decorative symbol) changes when the variable display of the second special symbol is executed by the second special symbol indicator 8b.

  As shown in FIGS. 65 (C) and 65 (D), when the change of the first special symbol is performed, the advance notice selection is executed at a higher rate than the case of the change of the second special symbol. To be determined. That is, the probability of selecting a notice is high. In addition, the smaller the total pending storage number, the higher the notice selection probability.

  66 and 67 are flowcharts showing the advance notice selection process in step S800B. In the notice selection process, the effect control CPU 101 extracts a notice determination random number (step S501). The notice determination random number is a software random number that is updated in the random number update process (step S706) in the main process.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not it is decided to make a big hit (step S502). For example, when the display result 2 specifying command or the display result 3 specifying command (see FIG. 15) is stored in the display result specifying command storage area in which the display result specifying command received from the game control microcomputer 560 is stored. Determines that the presentation control CPU 101 is determined to win a big hit.

  When it is determined to win, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether to execute the notice effect using the notice determination random number and the notice selection table at the time of the jackpot shown in FIG. However, when the first symbol variation designation command reception flag indicating that the first symbol variation designation command indicating that the first special symbol is variably displayed is received is set, the first symbol It is determined whether or not a notice effect (see FIG. 65B) is to be executed (steps S503A and S503B), and when the first symbol variation designation command reception flag is not set (in this case, the second special symbol is In the second symbol variation designation command reception flag indicating that the second symbol variation designation command indicating that the variable display is received is set), the second notice effect (FIG. 65 (B Executing a reference) whether to determine (step S503A, S503C). Then, the process proceeds to step S520. If it is determined not to make a big hit, and if it is determined to perform a reach effect (step S504), the process proceeds to step S511. When it is decided not to perform the reach effect, it is determined whether or not to execute the notice effect using the random number for notice determination and the notice selection table at the time of loss shown in FIG. When the 1 symbol variation designation command reception flag is set, it is determined whether or not to execute the first notice effect (see FIG. 65B) (steps S505A and S505B), and the 1 symbol variation designation command reception is performed. When the flag is not set, it is determined whether or not to execute the second notice effect (see FIG. 65B) (steps S505A and S505C). Then, the process proceeds to step S520.

  In step S511, the production control CPU 101 reads the value of the total pending storage number counter, and if the value of the total pending storage number counter is 0 (step S511), it is shown in FIG. 65 (C) or FIG. 65 (D). It is checked whether or not there is a judgment value that matches the notice determination random number in the first judgment value table (the table used when the total number of pending storages = 0) in the notice selection table. If there is a matching determination value, it is decided to execute the notice effect. However, if the first symbol variation designation command reception flag is set, the first notice effect (see FIG. 65 (B)). (Steps S513A and S513B), and when the first symbol variation designation command reception flag is not set, it is decided to execute the second notice effect (see FIG. 65 (B)). (Steps S513A and S513C). Then, the process proceeds to step S520. If there is no matching determination value, the process proceeds to step S519.

  In the process of step S512, the CPU 101 for effect control is shown in FIG. 65C when the first symbol variation designation command reception flag indicating that the first symbol variation designation command has been received is set. Use the previous notice selection table. When the second symbol variation designation command reception flag indicating that the second symbol variation designation command has been received is set, the notice selection table shown in FIG. 65 (D) is used. The same applies to the subsequent processing (steps S514 and S517) using the notice selection table.

  If the value of the total pending storage number counter is 1 or 2 (step S514), the second judgment value table (total pending storage number = 01) in the notice selection table shown in FIG. 65 (C) or 65 (D). Alternatively, it is confirmed whether or not there is a determination value that matches the notice determination random number in the table used at 2) (step S515). If there is a matching determination value, it is decided to execute the notice effect. However, if the first symbol variation designation command reception flag is set, the first notice effect (see FIG. 65 (B)). (Steps S516A and S516B), and if the first symbol variation designation command reception flag is not set, it is determined to execute the second notice effect (see FIG. 65 (B)). (Steps S516A and S516C). Then, the process proceeds to step S520. If there is no matching determination value, the process proceeds to step S519.

  When the value of the total pending storage number counter is any of 3 to 8 (in the case of “N” in step S514), the third determination in the notice selection table shown in FIG. 65 (C) or 65 (D) It is checked whether or not there is a judgment value that matches the notice determination random number in the value table (the table used when the total number of pending storages = 3 to 8) (step S517). If there is a matching determination value, it is decided to execute the notice effect. However, if the first symbol variation designation command reception flag is set, the first notice effect (see FIG. 65 (B)). (Steps S518A and S518B), and if the first symbol variation designation command reception flag is not set, it is determined to execute the second notice effect (see FIG. 65B). (Steps S518A and S518C). Then, the process proceeds to step S520. If there is no matching determination value, the process proceeds to step S519.

  In step S519, the effect control CPU 101 determines not to execute the notice effect. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S520). If the CPU 101 for effect control determines to execute the notice effect, it sets an internal flag indicating that effect.

  In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 performs step S822 (see FIG. 49) when the internal flag indicating that the notice effect is to be executed is set in the effect symbol variation start process (step S801). In the process, a process table corresponding to the notice effect is selected. In the process table corresponding to the notice effect, process data indicating the contents of the notice effect is set. Therefore, the control of the notice effect is executed in the effect symbol changing process (see FIG. 52) in which the effect control is executed according to the process table.

  In this embodiment, there is one kind of notice effect for each of the first notice effect and the second notice effect, but the effect control CPU 101 performs the notice effect to be executed from among the various kinds of notice effects. May be selected.

  In this embodiment, the same notice selection table (see FIG. 65B) is used regardless of the type of jackpot (probable big hit and normal jackpot), but different notice selection tables are used depending on the type of jackpot. You may make it do. In that case, for example, when it is determined to be a normal jackpot, more judgment values are set so that the notice effect is executed at a higher rate than when it is determined to be a probabilistic jackpot. Use the notice selection table for which is set.

Embodiment 4 FIG.
In each of the above embodiments, the game control microcomputer determines the variation time based on the value of the total pending memory number counter, but in the fourth embodiment (Embodiment 4), the first pending memory is determined. The variation time is determined based on the sum of the value of the number counter and the value of the second reserved storage number counter.

  Further, in this embodiment, instead of using the first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer shown in FIG. 21, a reserved storage buffer as shown in FIG. 68 is used. The reserved storage buffer is formed in the RAM 55, and the reserved storage buffer includes an area (first to eighth areas) corresponding to the sum (8 in this example) of the upper limit value of the first reserved memory and the upper limit value of the second reserved memory. ) Is secured. FIG. 68 shows an example in which the sum of the value of the first reserved memory number counter and the value of the second reserved memory number counter is 5. Further, the CPU 56 has the smallest area number (any one of 1 to 8) among the first to eighth areas (the random number is not yet set) when there is a start winning prize. In the storage area, the random R value read from the random number circuit 503 and the extracted random values 1 to 3 (see FIG. 6) are stored. Data that can specify whether each random number value is stored based on any of the second starting prizes (in the example shown in FIG. 68, data indicating “first” or “second”) is used as each random value. Save the corresponding to the saved area.

  FIG. 69 is a flowchart showing a part of the reserved storage process in this embodiment. Compared to the reserved storage process in the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, in this embodiment, the processes in steps S215A and S216A are executed instead of the processes in steps S215 and S216. That is, after executing the process of step S214, the data indicated by the start port pointer is stored in the area corresponding to (count value of the first reserved memory number counter + count value of the second reserved memory number counter) in the reserved memory buffer. Set (step S215A). Specifically, when the start port pointer indicates “first”, data indicating “first” is set, and when the start port pointer indicates “second”, “second” is set. Set the data indicating. In the state illustrated in FIG. 68, (the count value of the first reserved memory number counter + the count value of the second reserved memory number counter) is “5”, and in this state, the process of step S214 is executed. , (The count value of the first reserved memory number counter + the count value of the second reserved memory number counter) is “6”, for example, when the second start winning occurs, data indicating “second” in the sixth area Is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 extracts software random numbers (random 1 to 3) and random R (random hit determination random number), and uses them as the extracted random value (count value of the first reserved memory number counter + second reserved memory). The process of storing in the storage area corresponding to the count value of the number counter) is executed (step S216A). Other processes are the same as those shown in FIGS. 19 and 20.

  FIG. 70 is a flowchart showing the first special symbol normal process in this embodiment. Compared with the first special symbol normal process in the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, the processes of steps S52A and S53A are executed instead of the processes of steps S52 to S54. That is, when the second reserved memory number is 0 and the first reserved memory number is not 0 (steps S50 and S51), the number is stored in the storage area corresponding to the oldest “first” in the reserved memory buffer. Each random number value is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S52A). The storage area corresponding to the oldest “first” is the area number (1-8) among the areas in which data indicating “first” is set among the first area to the eighth area. Is one of the small areas. In the example shown in FIG. 68, it is the first region.

  Next, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the first reserved memory number by 1 (subtracts 1 from the count value of the first reserved memory number counter), and shifts the contents of the reserved memory buffer (step S53A). That is, the contents of the area having a larger area number than the area from which the random number value is read out in step S52A are sequentially shifted to an area having a smaller area number. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 68, when a random number value is read from the first area in the process of step S52A, it is stored in the storage area corresponding to the nth area (n = 2, 3, 4, 5). Each random number value stored is stored in the (n−1) th area. The data indicating “first” or “second” is similarly shifted. In addition, in the area to be shifted, the area with the largest area number is data indicating neither “first” nor “second” data (that is, data indicating that no random number value is stored). ) Is set. As an example, when the data indicating “first” is “01 (H)” and the data indicating “second” is “02 (H)”, “00 (H)” is set. For example, when the contents of the nth region (n = 2, 3, 4, 5) are shifted to the (n−1) th region, data “01 (H)” indicating “first” of the fifth region. Alternatively, the data “02 (H)” indicating “second” is changed to “00 (H)”. Other processes are the same as the processes shown in FIGS. Note that the contents of the reserved storage buffer are initialized to, for example, “00 (H)” by an initialization process executed when the power is turned on.

  Also in the second special symbol normal process, the hold storage buffer shown in FIG. 68 is used instead of the second hold storage buffer (see FIG. 21), and instead of the processes in steps S452 to S453 shown in FIG. The processes corresponding to steps S52A and S53A are executed.

  71 to 73 are flowcharts showing the variation pattern determination process in this embodiment. Compared with the variation pattern determination processing in the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 31 to 33, instead of the processing of steps S243, S246, S251, S258, S261, S264, S271, S274, S277, S281, Steps S243A, S246A, S251A, S258A, S261A, S264A, S271A, S274A, S277A, and S281A are executed. That is, in the processes of steps S243, S246, S251, S258, S261, S264, S271, S274, S277, and S281, the total pending storage number counter is used, whereas steps S243A, S246A, S251A, S258A, and S261A are used. , S264A, S271A, S274A, S277A, S281A, (the count value of the first reserved memory number counter + the count value of the second reserved memory number counter), that is, the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number Is used. Other processes are the same as the processes shown in FIGS.

Embodiment 5. FIG.
In the fourth embodiment, the CPU 56 uses the value of the first reserved memory number counter and the value of the second reserved memory number counter to specify the total number of held, but the fifth embodiment (implementation). In the form 5), the reserved storage buffer shown in FIG. 68 is used as in the case of the fourth embodiment. However, the CPU 56 determines the total number of held based on the data set in the reserved storage buffer. Is identified.

  74 to 76 are flowcharts showing the variation pattern determination process in this embodiment. Compared with the variation pattern determination process in the fourth embodiment shown in FIGS. 71 to 73, instead of the process of steps S243A, S246A, S251A, S258A, S261A, S264A, S271A, S274A, S277A, S281A, Steps S243B, S246B, S251B, S258B, S261B, S264B, S271B, S274B, S277B, and S281B are executed.

  Hereinafter, “01 (H)” is set as data indicating “first”, “02 (H)” is set as data indicating “second”, and a random number value is stored in the hold storage buffer. It is assumed that “00 (H)” is set as data indicating that there is no data. In the reserved storage buffer, the data “01 (H)” or “02 (H)” is always set from an area having a smaller area number. For example, in the state illustrated in FIG. 68, data “01 (H)” or “02 (H)” is always set in the first to fifth areas, and “00H” is set in the sixth to eighth areas. Is set. That is, data of “01 (H)” or “02 (H)” is not set in the five areas that are skipped. This is because the shift process is executed in the process of step S53A shown in FIG. 70, and “00 (H)” is set to the area with the largest area number among the areas to be shifted.

  In the processing of steps S243B, S246B, S251B, S258B, S261B, S264B, S271B, S274B, S277B, S281B, the CPU 56 performs steps S243A, S246A, S251A, S258A, S261A, S264A, S264A, S264A, S264A, S264A, S264A, S264A , S277A, and S281A (regions having a region number one greater than the value determined by the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number) Whether data other than “00 (H)” (“01 (H)” indicating “first” or “02 (H)” indicating “second”) is set in the eight areas) Make sure. Then, if it is confirmed that it is not set, a process using the first determination value table, the second determination value table or the third determination value table and the reach determination random number is executed.

  Specifically, in the process of step S243B, it is confirmed whether data other than “00 (H)” is set in the first area of the reserved storage buffer. If no data is set, the process of step S244 is executed. To do. In the process of step S246B, it is confirmed whether or not data other than “00 (H)” is set in the second area of the reserved storage buffer. If no data is set, the process of step S247 is executed. In the process of step S258B, it is confirmed whether or not data other than “00 (H)” is set in the first area of the reserved storage buffer. If no data is set, the process of step S259 is executed. In the process of step S261B, it is confirmed whether data other than “00 (H)” is set in the second area of the reserved storage buffer. If no data is set, the process of step S262 is executed. In the process of step S271B, it is confirmed whether or not data other than “00 (H)” is set in the first area of the reserved storage buffer. If no data is set, the process of step S272 is executed. In the process of step S274B, it is confirmed whether or not data other than “00 (H)” is set in the second area of the reserved storage buffer. If no data is set, the process of step S275 is executed. In the process of step S277B, it is confirmed whether or not data other than “00 (H)” is set in the third area of the reserved storage buffer. If no data is set, the process of step S278 is executed. In the process of step S281B, it is confirmed whether or not data other than “00 (H)” is set in the seventh area of the reserved storage buffer. If no data is set, the process of step S282 is executed. Other processes are the same as those in the fourth embodiment.

  The processing in this embodiment (particularly, the processing in steps S243B, S246B, S251B, S258B, S261B, S264B, S271B, S274B, S277B, S281B) also in steps S243, S246, S251, and S258 in the first embodiment. , S261, S264, S271, S274, S277, S281, and the determination processing of steps S243A, S246A, S251A, S258A, S261A, S264A, S271A, S274A, S277A, S281A in the fourth embodiment, and The same result is obtained.

  As described above, in the first to fifth embodiments, the gaming control microcomputer 560 changes the reach mode according to the total number of reserved memories (the sum of the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory). In addition to changing the ratio to be determined, when the variable display of the first special symbol is executed and when the variable display of the second special symbol is executed, the total reserved memory number (the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory) Even if the sum of memory) is the same, control is performed so as to change the ratio that is determined to cause reach, so whether variable display of the first special symbol is executed or variable display of the second special symbol is executed The reach occurrence probability changes according to the difference in whether or not the game is performed, and the gameability can be further improved by utilizing the total number of reserved memories (the sum of the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory).

  In the first to fifth embodiments, one display area for variably displaying the effect symbol (decorative symbol) is provided for the first special symbol and the second special symbol. The variable display of the same effect symbol (decorative symbol) was executed when the variable display of the first special symbol was executed and when the variable display of the second special symbol was executed, but the variable display of the first special symbol was executed. The first effect symbol (decorative symbol) that performs variable display synchronized with the second effect symbol and the second effect symbol (decorative symbol) that performs variable display synchronized with the variable display of the second special symbol may be used separately. Good.

  For example, in FIG. 77, on the display screen of the effect display device 9, the display area 9a of the first effect symbol (decorative symbol) that performs variable display synchronized with the variable display of the first special symbol, and the second special symbol An example is shown in which a display area 9b of a second effect symbol (decorative symbol) that performs variable display synchronized with variable display is provided separately.

  When the display screen of the effect display device 9 is configured as shown in FIG. 77, the effect control microcomputer 100 produces the effects shown in FIGS. 47 and 63 for the first effect symbol (decorative symbol). The first effect control process, which is the same process as the control process, is executed, and the second effect design (decoration symbol) is the same as the effect control process shown in FIGS. 47 and 63. 2. Perform the effect control process.

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

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

  In each of the above embodiments, the following gaming machines are also disclosed.

  The game control means starts variable display of the identification information by the first variable display means or the second variable display means in response to establishment of the variable information start display condition by the first variable display means or the second variable display means. When this is done, a variable display means specifying command (for example, a first symbol variation specifying command or a second variable) that can specify which of the first variable display means and the second variable display means starts variable display of identification information. Symbol variation designation command), variable display pattern command for identifying variable display time (for example, variation pattern command), and display result identification command for specifying display result (for example, display result 1 designation command, display result 2) Start command transmission means for transmitting a specified command and a display result 3 specified command) 110 to S114), and the effect control means is an effect part corresponding to the variable display means specified by the variable display means specifying command based on the command from the start command transmitting means. A gaming machine that starts (e.g., reach production) (e.g., processing in steps S821 to S824). According to such a configuration, the variable display pattern command and the display result specifying command capable of specifying the display result are displayed on the variable display of the identification information on the first variable display means and on the variable display of the identification information on the second variable display means. When the effect control means starts the effect corresponding to the variable display means specified by the variable display means specifying command with the effect parts, the type of command transmitted from the game control means is selected. It can be prevented from increasing.

  The game control means has increased the number of establishments counted by the first counting means for counting the number of establishment of the first execution condition or the number of establishments counted by the second counting means for counting the number of establishment of the second execution condition. The establishment number counted by the first counting means after transmitting the establishment number identification command (for example, the first start prize designation command or the second start prize designation command) indicating which number of achievements has increased based on The total number specifying command transmitting means (for example, the total pending storage number specifying command) that can specify the total number corresponding to the total of the number and the established number counted by the second counting means (for example, the total pending storage number specifying command) In the game control microcomputer 560, the production control means transmits the total number specifying command. Based on the command transmitted by the stage, the total number of established number display means (for example, the total pending storage display unit 18c) that displays the total number in an identifiable manner is controlled (for example, the processing of steps S901, S911, and S923 is executed). Gaming machine. According to such a configuration, the effect control means determines which of the variable display means the execution condition of the variable display of the identification information has increased without increasing the types of commands transmitted from the game control means. It becomes possible to grasp.

  The game control means, based on the increase in the number of establishments counted by the first counting means or the number of establishments counted by the second counting means, indicates the establishment number identification command (for example, indicating which establishment number has increased) , The first start winning designation command or the second start winning designation command) and the total number corresponding to the sum of the number of establishments counted by the first counting means and the number of establishments counted by the second counting means A total number specifying command transmitting means for transmitting a total number specifying command (for example, a total pending storage number specifying command) (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S210 to S218 in the game control microcomputer 560); Display that can specify the number of establishments counted by the first counting means and the number of establishments counted by the second counting means A standing number display means (e.g., summation pending storage display section 18c) is provided, and the effect control means uses the total number specifying command transmitted by the total number specifying command transmission means to the established number display means by the first counting means. A second mode (for example, a green circle) that allows the number of established counts to be displayed is displayed in a first mode (for example, a red circle) that can be identified, and the number of formations counted by the second counting means can be identified. ) And the number-of-establishment display control means (for example, the part that executes the processing of steps S901, S911, and S923 in the production control microcomputer 100) and the number-of-establishment-identification command transmission means are received. When the total number specifying command is received, the formation number display means is configured in a special mode (for example, a blue circle) different from the first mode and the second mode. Established number display mode control means for causing an identifiable display the number (e.g., in effect control microcomputer 100, step S909, S921, portions for performing the process of S931) and the gaming machine including. According to such a configuration, when the established number display mode control means receives the total number specifying command without receiving the established number identification command from the total number specifying command transmitting means, Since the display capable of specifying the number of formations is performed in a special mode different from the above mode and the second mode, it is possible to easily grasp that an abnormality has occurred regarding transmission / reception of commands.

  The game control means has a RAM (for example, RAM 55) in which data is held by a backup power source (for example, a capacitor) even when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, and stored data in the RAM when the power supply is started. It is possible to return the gaming state based on (for example, the processing of steps S41 to S43 is executed. Since the data not initialized in the processing of step S42 is the data before the power supply stop, the gaming state Is established), and the number-of-establishment identification command indicating which number of formations has increased based on the increase in the number of formations counted by the first counting means or the number of formations counted by the second counting means. (For example, the first start winning designation command or the second start winning designation command) is transmitted and then counted by the first counting means. Total number specifying command transmitting means for transmitting a total number specifying command (for example, a total pending storage number specifying command) capable of specifying the total number corresponding to the total of the established number counted by the second counting means. For example, in the game control microcomputer 560, the portion that executes the processing of steps S210 to S218) and data that can specify the total number stored in the RAM when the game state is restored (for example, the summation pending storage) And a return time command transmission means (for example, a part for executing the processing of step S43 in the game control microcomputer 560) for transmitting the total number specifying command based on the value of the number counter). Formation number table for displaying the number of established formations and the number of formations counted by the second counting means. Means (for example, summation pending storage display unit 18c), and the production control means is counted by the first counting means by the establishment number display means based on the total number specifying command transmitted by the total number specifying command transmitting means. Display in the first mode (for example, red circle) that can identify the number of establishments, and display in the second mode (for example, green circle) that can identify the number of formations counted by the second counting means. When the total number specifying command is transmitted by the established number display control means (for example, the part that executes the processing of steps S901, S911, and S923 in the production control microcomputer 100) and the return time command transmission means. The establishment number display mode in which the establishment number display means performs a display capable of specifying the establishment number in a special mode (for example, an asterisk) different from the first mode and the second mode. A gaming machine including control means (for example, a part that executes the processing of steps S902 and S904 in the production control microcomputer 100). According to such a configuration, when the total number specifying command is transmitted by the return time command transmitting unit, the number of established units is identified in a special mode different from the first mode and the second mode in the number-of-established number display unit. Since possible display is performed, it is possible to easily grasp that the gaming state has been restored according to a predetermined mode.

  The game control means determines whether or not at least one of the winning at the first starting port and the winning at the second starting port has occurred (for example, step S210 in the holding storage processing shown in FIGS. 19 and 20). The execution condition determining means (for example, the part for executing the holding storage process shown in FIG. 19 and FIG. 20 in the game control microcomputer 560) and the execution condition determining means for the first start port are determined in step S211). When it is determined that at least one of a winning or winning at the second starting port has occurred, it is determined which starting port has been won in the common processing routine, and corresponding to the specified starting port is dealt with A judgment value (for example, a random value) that includes at least a numerical value (for example, random R) for judging whether or not to shift to the specific gaming state. Winning process execution means (for example, processing in steps S214 to S217 in the game control microcomputer 560) for executing a winning process (for example, the process in step S216) for storing the numerical value in the numerical value storage means (for example, the RAM 55). A game machine including According to such a configuration, the process for determining whether or not a winning at the first start opening has occurred and the process for determining whether or not a winning at the second starting opening has occurred can be made common. It is possible to reduce the program capacity in the game control means relating to the variable display start control by the two variable display means.

  The game control means starts variable display of the identification information by the first variable display means or the second variable display means in response to establishment of the variable information start display condition by the first variable display means or the second variable display means. When the first variable display means and the second variable display means, the first variable display means and the second variable display means share the display results of the variable display on the variable display means that satisfies the start condition. A game machine including display result determining means (for example, a part for executing the processes of steps S63 and S71 in the game control microcomputer 560) determined by a routine (for example, the processes shown in FIG. 27 and FIG. 29) used in . According to such a configuration, since the display results in the first variable display means and the second variable display means can be determined in one routine, the program capacity in the game control means related to the variable display start control can be reduced. it can.

  The game control means starts variable display of the identification information by the first variable display means or the second variable display means in response to establishment of the variable information start display condition by the first variable display means or the second variable display means. A variable display pattern that can specify a variable display time from the start of variable display to the end of variable display for the variable display means that satisfies the start condition of the first variable display means and the second variable display means ( For example, the process of selecting a variation pattern) from a plurality of variable display patterns is determined by a routine commonly used for the first variable display means and the second variable display means (for example, the processes shown in FIGS. 31 and 32). A game machine including variable display pattern selection means (for example, a part for executing the process of step S102 in the game control microcomputer 560). According to such a configuration, a gaming machine including a display result determining unit that determines a routine commonly used for the first variable display unit and the second variable display unit. According to such a configuration, since the variable display pattern in the first variable display means and the second variable display means can be selected in one routine, the program capacity in the game control means related to the variable display start control can be reduced. Can do.

  The present invention can be applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, and is particularly suitable for a gaming machine having a plurality of variable display means, in which variable display is not executed simultaneously on these variable display means. Applied.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows 2 ms timer interruption processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows a jackpot determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows a reach determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between the total number of pending storages, and a change time. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the method of a display of a total pending storage display part. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the relationship between the stop symbol of a special symbol, and the game state controlled after that. FIG. 38E illustrates an effect control command signal line. It is a timing diagram showing the relationship between an 8-bit control signal and an INT signal constituting a control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the transmission timing of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the transmission timing of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows the bit allocation example of the input port in the microcomputer for game control. It is a flowchart which shows pending storage processing. It is a flowchart which shows pending storage processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a pending | holding buffer. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit determination process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the big hit symbol determination table. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit symbol determination process. It is explanatory drawing which shows a loss symbol determination table. It is a flowchart which shows a loss symbol determination process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st fluctuation pattern determination process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st fluctuation pattern determination process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st fluctuation pattern determination process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st display result specific command transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a 1st big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows a 2nd special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a 2nd special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a 2nd special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control main process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a command reception buffer. 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 a command analysis process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the display state of a total pending storage display part. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the stop symbol of an effect symbol. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of process data. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit display process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows a pending | holding memory | storage display control process. It is a flowchart which shows a pending | holding memory | storage display control process. It is a flowchart which shows a pending | holding memory | storage display control process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the data set to a summation pending storage table, and the example of a display of a summation pending storage display part. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the data set to a summation pending storage table, and the example of a display of a summation pending storage display part. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the data set to a summation pending storage table, and the example of a display of a summation pending storage display part. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of a reach determination table. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the execution timing of a notice effect, and the example of a notice effect in an effect display apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows a notice selection table. It is a flowchart which shows a notice selection process. It is a flowchart which shows a notice selection process. It is explanatory drawing which shows a pending | holding storage buffer. It is a flowchart which shows a part of pending | holding memory | storage process in 4th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the 1st special symbol normal process in 4th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the fluctuation pattern determination process in 4th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the fluctuation pattern determination process in 4th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the fluctuation pattern determination process in 4th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the fluctuation pattern determination process in 5th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the fluctuation pattern determination process in 5th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the fluctuation pattern determination process in 5th Embodiment. It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8a 1st special symbol display 8b 1st special symbol display 9 Production display device 13 1st start winning opening 14 2nd starting winning opening 20 Variable winning ball apparatus 31 Game control board (main board)
56 CPU
560 Game control microcomputer 80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 101 Production control CPU
109 VDP

Claims (6)

First variable display means for starting the variable display of the first identification information and deriving and displaying the display result based on the fact that the first execution condition of the predetermined variable display is established, and the second of the predetermined variable display Based on the fact that the execution condition is satisfied, the apparatus has second variable display means for starting the variable display of the second identification information and deriving and displaying the display result, and one of the first variable display means and the second variable display means A gaming machine that shifts to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player when the specific display result is derived and displayed on
An effect display device for performing variable display of effect identification information corresponding to variable display in the first variable display means or the second variable display means;
Game control means for controlling the progress of the game;
Based on the command transmitted by the game control means, an effect control means for performing display control of the effect display device,
The game control means includes
Display specifying means for specifying which of the variable display of the first identification information in the first variable display means and the variable display of the second identification information in the second variable display means is to be executed;
When the variable display of the identification information of the first variable display unit or the second variable display unit is started, the display result of the variable display of the identification information of the first variable display unit or the second variable display unit is specified. A pre-determining means for deciding whether or not to display the result;
Reach for determining whether or not to generate a reach mode based on the effect identification information in the effect display device during execution of variable display when the pre-determining means determines that the display result is not the specific display result A determination means;
Variable display time determining means for determining a variable display time that is a time from the start to the end of variable display of identification information based on the determination result of the prior determination means;
A total number determination means for determining whether or not the total number of the first execution condition and the second execution condition is equal to or greater than a predetermined total number;
The reach determination unit changes a ratio to be determined to cause the reach mode according to a determination result of the total number determination unit, and determines that the total number is equal to or greater than a predetermined total number by the total number determination unit. Even when it is performed, the reach mode is performed when the variable display of the first identification information in the first variable display means is executed and when the variable display of the second identification information in the second variable display means is executed. A gaming machine characterized by changing a ratio to be determined to generate. In the game area, a first start port for establishing a first execution condition by winning a game medium and a second start port for establishing a second execution condition by winning a game medium are provided.
The second start port can be set to either a first state in which a game medium is easy to win or a second state in which it is difficult to win.
The reach determination means causes a reach mode when performing variable display of the second identification information in the second variable display means, compared to when performing variable display of the first identification information in the first variable display means. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein: In the game area, a first start port for establishing a first execution condition by winning a game medium and a second start port for establishing a second execution condition by winning a game medium are provided.
The second start port can be set to either a first state in which a game medium is easy to win or a second state in which it is difficult to win.
The reach determination means causes a reach mode when performing variable display of the second identification information in the second variable display means, compared to when performing variable display of the first identification information in the first variable display means. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a ratio of determining to be high is increased. The reach determining means causes the reach mode when the total number is determined to be greater than or equal to the predetermined total number by the total number determining means than when the total number is determined to be less than the predetermined total number. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a ratio to be determined is lowered. The variable display time determining means has a variable display time when the total number is determined to be greater than or equal to the predetermined total number by the total number determining means than when the total number is determined to be less than the predetermined total number. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein control for shortening is performed. On the condition that the variable display of the second identification information is not executed by the second variable display means, the variable display of the first identification information is executed by the first variable display means, and the first identification information is executed by the first variable display means. Variable display executing means for executing variable display of the second identification information by the second variable display means on the condition that the variable display is not executed,
First counting means for counting the number of established first execution conditions;
Second counting means for counting the number of established second execution conditions,
The variable display executing means, when the display result is derived and displayed on the first variable display means or when the display result is derived and displayed on the second variable display means, When the number of formations counted by the second counting means is not 0, the variable display of the second identification information on the second variable display means is executed in preference to the variable display of the first identification information on the first variable display means. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

Images