JP2009056136A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of meeting the convenience of a game. <P>SOLUTION: A pachinko game machine includes: a game control means for executing the control of shifting to a probability variable game state after the end of a big winning when a prescribed condition is established and shifting to a normal game state when a normal game shifting condition is established in the probability variable game state; a hitting means for hitting game balls; a winning port provided in a game area; a putout means for putting out prize balls; a putout control means for executing the control of putting out the prescribed number of game balls as the prize balls by the putout means; a using game ball detection means for detecting using game balls; a prize ball detection means for detecting the prize balls; a ball quantity difference specifying means for specifying the ball quantity difference between the number of the using game balls and the number of the prize balls in a period from shifting to the big winning to shifting to the normal game state again on the basis of the detected result of the using game ball detection means and the prize ball detection means; and a ball quantity difference reporting means for reporting the ball quantity difference specified by the ball quantity difference specifying means. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, particularly a pachinko gaming machine.

  In a conventional pachinko machine, a big hit lottery is performed when a game ball enters a predetermined passing area (for example, a start opening) of the game board, and when a big hit is won, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times in a predetermined time. When game balls enter the winning opening, a predetermined number of winning balls are paid out.

  In recent gaming machines, when a big hit is made with a specific design, the probability of winning a big hit in the big hit lottery is increased until the next big hit. The time-saving function that gives the chance to win the next big hit by making lots of lottery in a short time while maintaining the amount of holding balls until the special symbol fluctuates a predetermined number of times due to the advantageous operation of the accessory Some have

  With respect to such a gaming machine, the player has a great interest in how many times the player makes a big hit (so-called consecutive number of consecutive times) while the above-described probability variation or short-time state continues.

In addition, the player thinks that he / she has lost a game if the number of used game balls such as the number of out balls discharged to the game ball without entering the big winning opening during the big hit is large. For this reason, the player is interested in how much difference there is between the number of used game balls and the number of prize ball game balls during a game such as a big hit. Therefore, by notifying the difference quantity between the number of game balls used at the time of occurrence of one big hit and the number of winning balls by the notification means, what timing and firing strength the player can fire during the big hit? There is a gaming machine that can determine whether it is good (see Patent Document 1).
JP 2004-89521 A

  However, even with such a gaming machine, the player's possession ball will increase or decrease even during big hits, during certain changes or during short periods of time only by notifying the difference in the number of big hits. Cannot grasp the exact difference. In such a gaming machine, a series of consecutive channels cannot meet the player's request to know how much game balls have been acquired, and thus cannot meet the demand for convenience of the game.

  Furthermore, conventionally, most of the storage means (so-called dollar box) for storing prize balls acquired by a player can store about 1800 game balls. For this reason, until the player actually counts the number of game balls using a counter, the player wins the award obtained by the number of storage means (the number of dollar boxes) that the game balls are full in a series of consecutive chans. Since it was only possible to estimate the number of balls and determine whether it was possible to exchange for the desired prize based on the number of winning balls, it became difficult for players to accurately determine the number of winning balls, It is also difficult to know whether it can be exchanged for the desired prize according to the number of balls.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can solve such problems and meet the convenience of gaming.

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides a gaming machine described below.

  (1) When a predetermined game state transition condition is satisfied, the state shifts to a specific game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state, and when the predetermined special game transition condition is satisfied, the specific game state ends Thereafter, the special game state is shifted to the special game state more easily than the normal game state, and when the predetermined normal game transition condition is satisfied in the special game state, the special game state is changed to the normal game state. Game control means for performing transition control, launching means for launching a game ball in response to a launch operation by the player, a game area in which the launched game ball can flow down, and a game ball provided in the game area A payout slot for accepting a prize ball, a payout means for paying out a prize ball, and a payout means for controlling the payout means to pay out a predetermined number of game balls as a prize ball in accordance with the winning of a game ball to the prize opening. A control means; a used game ball detection means for detecting a used game ball that is launched by the launch means and used for a game; and a winning ball that a player acquires in accordance with a winning of the gaming ball in the winning opening A prize ball detecting means for determining a difference between the number of game balls used and the number of prize balls in the period from the transition from the normal game state to the specific game state until the normal game state is entered again. The ball detecting means and the difference ball quantity specifying means specified based on the detection result of the prize ball detecting means, and the difference ball quantity notifying means for notifying the difference ball quantity specified by the difference ball quantity specifying means are provided. A gaming machine characterized by

  According to the invention of (1), when a transition is made to a specific gaming state (for example, jackpot) and a predetermined special game transition condition is established, the special gaming state (for example, jackpot) is terminated after the end of the specific gaming state (for example, jackpot). Transition to a probable game state, a short-time game state, etc.), and the difference between the number of used game balls and the number of prize ball game balls in the period from the specific game state (for example, big hit) to the normal game state again. Since it is possible to know the total, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can be satisfied with the convenience of gaming by knowing the difference earned by so-called continuous chain.

  (2) In the gaming machine described in (1), the operating means that can be operated by the player and whether to notify the difference ball quantity in the difference ball quantity notifying means according to the operation of the operating means is determined. The difference ball quantity notification determining means and the difference ball quantity notification determination means perform control to notify the difference ball quantity in the difference ball quantity notification means on condition that it is determined to notify the difference ball quantity. A featured gaming machine.

  According to the invention of (2), in addition to the invention of (1), it is possible to determine whether or not to notify the difference ball quantity according to the operation of the operation means by the player. For example, if the game result is bad, or conversely, the game result is too good and you do not want to beat the extra ambition around you, you do not want to be notified of the difference quantity Therefore, by making it possible to cope with such a case, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can achieve convenience.

  (3) In the gaming machine described in (1) or (2), after the transition from the normal gaming state to the specific gaming state, the transition to the specific gaming state in the period until the normal gaming state is reached again. A gaming machine comprising transition number counting means for counting the number of times, and transition number notifying means for notifying the number of transitions to the specific gaming state counted by the transition number counting means.

  According to the invention of (3), in addition to the invention of (1) or (2), after the transition from the normal gaming state to the specific gaming state (for example, a big hit), the period until the normal gaming state is entered again, Since it is possible to know the number of times of transition to a specific gaming state (so-called continuous number of times), the player can concentrate on the game without having to count the continuous number of times in his / her head. It is possible to provide a gaming machine that can respond.

  (4) In the gaming machine according to (3), based on the difference ball quantity specified by the difference ball quantity specifying unit and the number of transitions to the specific gaming state counted by the transition number counting unit, Average difference ball quantity calculating means for calculating the average difference ball quantity per transition to the specific gaming state, and average difference ball quantity notifying means for notifying the average difference ball quantity calculated by the average difference ball quantity calculation means A gaming machine characterized by comprising:

  According to the invention of (4), in addition to the invention of (3), the average difference ball quantity per transition to a specific gaming state (for example, big hit) is notified. In this way, it is possible to recognize the average of the difference ball quantity per transition to a specific gaming state, so it can be used as a reference for how to play a game during big hits, during probable change, or during a short period of time (such as determining an appropriate launch position). This makes it possible to provide a gaming machine that can meet the convenience of gaming.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can meet the convenience of gaming.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments described below, a case where the present invention is applied to a first type pachinko gaming machine (also referred to as “digital pachi”) is shown as a preferred embodiment for a gaming machine according to the present invention.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Composition of gaming machine]
First, an overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing an overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is a front view showing an overview of the game board 14 in the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is a front view showing an overview of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the pachinko gaming machine 10 can be opened and closed in front of the main body frame 12, a main body frame 12 attached to the outer frame 12 b, various components arranged in the main body frame 12, and the like. It is comprised from the door 11 pivotally attached to. As shown in FIG. 1, this door 11 is for closing the main body frame 12 from the front, and a game is normally performed in the closed state. Further, an upper plate 20, a lower plate 22, a firing handle 26, and the like are disposed on the front surface of the main body frame 12. A ball lending operation panel 27 and a difference ball number display ON / OFF switch 80 are disposed on the upper plate 20. The ball lending operation panel 27 exchanges electronic data and game balls when a card storing electronic data exchangeable with game balls is inserted into a card unit 150 (see FIG. 6) described later. A lending button for instructing, a return button for returning the card from the card unit 150, and a display panel (not shown) composed of a 7-segment LED for displaying electronic data information (balance information) stored in the card. Yes. The difference ball number display ON / OFF switch 80 is provided on the front side (player side) of the upper plate 20. The player can turn on / off the display of a difference ball display 331, a continuous number of times display 333, and an average difference ball display 335, which will be described later, by pressing the difference ball number display ON / OFF switch 80. .

  The main body frame 12 is provided with a liquid crystal display device 32, a game board 14, and the like. In addition, description is abbreviate | omitted in order to make an understanding easy about various components (not shown) other than the game board 14, the spacer 31, and the liquid crystal display device 32 in FIG.

  The game board 14 is entirely formed of a plate-shaped resin (a member having permeability) having permeability. Examples of the transparent member include various materials such as acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, and methacrylic resin. Further, the game board 14 has a game area 15 on the front side thereof in which the launched game ball can roll down. The game area 15 is an area surrounded by a guide rail 30 (specifically, an outer rail 30a shown in FIG. 4 to be described later) where a game ball can roll. A plurality of game nails 13 are driven into the game area 15 on the game board 14. As described above, the game area 15 is an example of a game area in which the launched game ball can flow down.

  The liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind (on the back side of) the game board 14. In other words, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind the transparent member of the game board 14. The liquid crystal display device 32 has a display area 32a that enables display of an image relating to a game. The display area 32a is disposed so as to overlap all or part of the game board 14 from the back side. In other words, the display area 32a is disposed behind the game board 14 so as to overlap at least all or part of the game area 15 in the game board 14. Specifically, the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind the game board 14 so that the display area 32 a overlaps all or part of the game area 15 and all or part of the game area outer area 16. . In the liquid crystal display device 32, various images such as an effect image for effect and an ornament image for decoration are displayed in the display area 32a. In particular, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32, after transitioning to the big hit game state, a production effect image is displayed during the execution of the big hit game.

  Thus, in the present embodiment, by providing the effect display means such as the liquid crystal display device 32 behind the game board 14, for example, an area in which game members such as a planted area of the game nail 13, an accessory, and a decorative member are provided. And the degree of freedom of layout can be further increased.

  The spacer 31 is disposed behind (on the back side of) the game board 14, and forms a space serving as a flow path for game balls in front of (on the front side of) the liquid crystal display device 32. The spacer 31 is made of a permeable material. In the present embodiment, the spacer 31 is made of a permeable material, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, a part of the spacer 31 may be made of a permeable material. Moreover, you may form with the material which does not have permeability | transmittance.

  A protective plate 19 having transparency is disposed on the door 11. The protection plate 19 is disposed so as to face the front surface of the game board 14 with the door 11 closed.

  The firing handle 26 is provided so as to be rotatable with respect to the main body frame 12. A firing solenoid (not shown) as a driving device is provided on the back side of the firing handle 26. Further, a touch sensor (not shown) is provided on the peripheral edge of the firing handle 26. When the touch sensor is touched by the player, it is detected that the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player. When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and is rotated in the clockwise direction, power is supplied to the firing solenoid according to the rotational angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 is played. It is fired sequentially on the board 14 and the game proceeds. A launching device 130 (see FIG. 6) including the firing handle 26, a firing solenoid (not shown), a touch sensor (not shown), and the like is installed on the lower right side with respect to the game board 14.

  As shown in FIG. 3, a difference ball display 331, a continuous change number display 333, and an average difference ball display 335 are provided on the lower right side of the game board 14. Further, a special symbol display 35, a normal symbol display 33, special symbol hold display LEDs 34a to 34d, normal symbol hold display LEDs 50a to 50d, and round number indicators 51a to 51d are provided on the lower left side of the game board 14. Yes.

  The difference ball indicator 331 is composed of six 7-segment LEDs. The 7-segment LED is turned on / off when a predetermined condition is satisfied. By turning on / off the 7-segment LED, 10 numeric symbols from “0” to “9” are displayed for the period based on the award ball and launch ball acquired from the time of the first big hit to the end of the short time. Displayed as a difference ball. In the present embodiment, the difference indicator 331 is described as being composed of six 7-segment LEDs, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the difference indicator is another number of 7 segments. You may be comprised with LED. Further, the difference ball display may be other display means such as a liquid crystal display device. Thus, the difference ball indicator 331 is an example of the difference ball quantity notifying means for notifying the difference ball quantity specified by the difference ball quantity specifying means.

  The continuous channel number display 333 is composed of two 7-segment LEDs. The 7-segment LED is turned on / off when a predetermined condition is satisfied. By turning on / off the 7-segment LED, 10 numeric symbols from “0” to “9” are displayed as the so-called continuous number of consecutive times from when the normal game state is reached to when the normal game state is reached again. Is done. In addition, in this embodiment, although it described that the continuous channel number display 333 was comprised by two 7 segment LED, this invention is not limited to this, The continuous channel number display has other numbers. You may comprise 7 segment LED. Further, the continuous number of times display may be other display means such as a liquid crystal display device. Thus, the continuous number-of-times display 333 is an example of a transition number notifying unit that notifies the number of transitions to the specific gaming state counted by the transition number counting unit.

  The average difference ball indicator 335 is composed of four 7-segment LEDs. The 7-segment LED is turned on / off when a predetermined condition is satisfied. The difference in the number of big hits from 10 when the 7-segment LED is turned on and off from the normal gaming state to the normal gaming state after 10 numerical symbols from “0” to “9” Displayed as the average value of the balls. In addition, in this embodiment, although it described that the average difference ball indicator 335 was comprised by four 7 segment LED, this invention is not limited to this, An average difference ball indicator is another number. You may comprise 7 segment LED. The average difference ball display may be other display means such as a liquid crystal display device. Thus, the average difference ball indicator 335 is an example of the average difference ball quantity notifying means for notifying the average difference ball quantity calculated by the average difference ball quantity calculating means.

  The special symbol display 35 is composed of a plurality of 7-segment LEDs. The 7-segment LED is repeatedly turned on and off when a predetermined special symbol variation display start condition is satisfied. By turning on / off the 7-segment LED, 10 numeric symbols from “0” to “9” are variably displayed as special symbols (also referred to as first identification information). As a special symbol, when a specific numeric symbol (for example, a numeric symbol such as “21”, “50”, or “64”) is stopped and displayed, the jackpot game that is advantageous to the player from the normal game The gaming state transitions to. In the case of this big hit game, the shutter 40 (see FIG. 4) is controlled to the open state, and the game ball can be received in the big winning opening 39 (see FIG. 4). On the other hand, when a number symbol other than a specific number symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol, the normal gaming state is maintained. As described above, a game in which a special symbol is variably displayed and then stopped and the game state is shifted or maintained according to the result is referred to as a “special symbol game”.

  Below the special symbol indicator 35, a normal symbol indicator 33 is provided. The normal symbol display 33 is composed of, for example, two display lamps of a red LED and a green LED. These display lamps are alternately turned on and off alternately, and are variably displayed as a normal symbol.

  Below the normal symbol display 33, special symbol hold display LEDs 34a to 34d are provided. The special symbol hold display LEDs 34a to 34d display the number of executions of the special symbol change display held by turning on or off (so-called “hold number”, “hold number related to special symbols”). For example, when the execution of the special symbol variation display is held once, the special symbol hold display LED 34a is turned on.

  Below the normal symbol display 33, normal symbol hold display LEDs 50a to 50d are provided. The normal symbol hold display LEDs 50a to 50d display the number of executions of fluctuation display of the normal symbols that are held by turning on or off (so-called “hold number”, “hold number related to normal symbols”). Similar to the special symbol, when the execution of the fluctuation display of the normal symbol is held once, the normal symbol hold display LED 50a is turned on.

  On the left side of the special symbol display 35, round number displays 51a to 51d are provided. The round number indicators 51a to 51d display the maximum number of rounds during the execution of the big hit game. The round number indicators 51a to 51d are composed of four dot LEDs, and there are two patterns of lighting and extinguishing for each dot LED, so that at least 16 patterns can be displayed (4 of 2). Squared pattern). The round number display 51 may be composed of a plurality of 7-segment LEDs, a liquid crystal display unit, a transmissive liquid crystal display unit, and the like.

  In addition, in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 disposed behind the game board 14 (back side), an effect image related to the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display 35 is displayed.

  For example, during the variable display of the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display 35, an identification symbol consisting of numbers, symbols, etc. in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 (also identification information for production. For example, “ The numbers from “0” to “9”) are variably displayed. Further, the special symbol that has been variably displayed on the special symbol display 35 is stopped and displayed, and the identification symbol for production is also stopped and displayed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32.

  Further, when a special numerical symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display 35, an effect image that allows the player to grasp that it is a big hit is displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. Specifically, when a specific numeric symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display 35, a combination of effect identification information displayed in the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 is a specific display. It becomes a mode (for example, a mode in which any one of “1” to “9” is all displayed in each of a plurality of symbol rows), and also with a character image such as “Big hit!” The character image is displayed in the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32.

  As shown in FIG. 4, two guide rails 30 (30a and 30b), a stage 55, passing gates 54a and 54b, a stage 57, a starting port 25, a shutter 40, a big winning port 39, an ordinary electric accessory 48, and a general winning item. Game members such as the openings 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d are provided on the game board 14.

  A decorative frame 18 is provided on the front side of the door 11, and speakers 46 are installed on both upper sides of the decorative frame 18. Further, the decoration frame 18 is provided with a lamp for production (not shown).

  A stage 55 is provided in the upper part of the game board 14, and a stage 57 is provided in the approximate center of the game board 14.

  The guide rail 30 provided on the left side of the game board 14 includes an outer rail 30a that partitions (defines) the game area 15 and an inner rail 30b disposed inside the outer rail 30a. The launched game ball is guided by a guide rail 30 provided on the game board 14 and moves to the upper part of the game board 14, and the plurality of game nails (not shown) and the game board 14 are provided. Due to the collision with the stages 55, 57, etc., the game flows down toward the lower side of the game board 14 while changing its traveling direction.

  A warp port 24 is formed at the left end of the stage 55. When a game ball enters the warp port 24, the game ball is guided behind the stage 57 via the first warp path 47 behind the game board 14. The game ball guided behind the stage 57 is discharged to the front side of the game board 14 from a discharge port (not shown) surrounded by the stage 57 and flows down to the game board 14.

  The start opening 25 described above is provided with an ordinary electric accessory (may be referred to as an ordinary electric combination for short). The ordinary electric accessory 48 includes a pair of opposed blade members and a start port solenoid 118 (see FIG. 6) that opens and closes the blade members. When the blade member is closed, it is possible to enter the start port 25 only from above the blade member, and when it is open, it is possible to enter the start port 25 from above and from the left and right of the blade member. Thus, it becomes easier for a game ball to enter the start opening 25. The start port solenoid 118 (see FIG. 6) is driven and controlled by the main CPU 66, as will be described in detail later. Thus, the start port 25 is an example of a winning port that is provided in the game area and can receive a game ball.

  A winning area is provided in the start opening 25 described above. This winning area is provided with a start winning opening switch 116 (see FIG. 6). When a game medium such as a game ball is detected by the start winning port switch 116, it is determined that the game ball has won. When the game ball wins, the special symbol display by the special symbol display 35 is started. Also, if a game ball wins during the special symbol variation display, the special symbol variation display based on the winning of the game ball to the start port 25 is executed until the special symbol during the variation display is stopped and displayed ( Start) is put on hold. Thereafter, when the special symbol that has been variably displayed is stopped and displayed, the variably displayed suspended special symbol is started. Note that an upper limit is set for the number of times the execution of the special symbol variable display is suspended. For example, the special symbol variable display is suspended up to four times.

  In addition, as another condition (start of variable display of a predetermined special symbol), the special symbol is stopped and displayed. In other words, every time a predetermined special symbol variable display start condition is satisfied, the special symbol variable display is started.

  Passage gates 54 a and 54 b are provided on both the left and right sides of the approximate center of the game board 14. The passage gates 54a and 54b are provided with passage gate switches 114 and 115 (see FIG. 6). Pass gate switches 114 and 115 detect that the game ball has passed through the pass gates 54a and 54b. When the passing of the game ball is detected by the passing gate switches 114, 115, the normal symbol display 33 (see FIG. 3) starts the normal symbol variation display, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, Fluctuation display stops. As described above, this normal symbol is a light emitting display of a red LED or a green LED.

  When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a predetermined light emission display, for example, a red LED, the blade member of the normal electric accessory 48 provided at the start port 25 is changed from the closed state to the open state, and a game ball is placed at the start port 25. It becomes easier to enter. In addition, when a predetermined time has elapsed after the blade member is opened, the blade member is closed to make it difficult for the game ball to enter the start opening 25. As described above, a game in which a normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner and then stopped and the open / closed state of the blade member varies depending on the result is referred to as a “normal symbol game”.

  Similarly to the special symbol variation display, when a game ball passes through the passing gates 54a and 54b during the normal symbol variation display, the passing gate is displayed until the normal symbol in the variation display is stopped and displayed. The execution (start) of the normal symbol variation display based on the passing of the game ball to 54a and 54b is put on hold. After that, when the normal symbol that has been variably displayed is stopped and displayed, the variably displayed normal symbol that has been suspended is started.

  The big prize opening 39 is provided with a shutter 40 that can be opened and closed on the front side (front side). When the special symbol display 35 (see FIG. 3) displays a specific numerical symbol as a special symbol, the shutter 40 is in an open state in which it is easy to accept a game ball when the gaming state is shifted to the big hit gaming state. To be driven. As a result, the special winning opening 39 is in an open state where it is easy to accept a game ball.

  On the other hand, the special winning opening 39 provided on the back side (rear side) of the shutter 40 has a general area (not shown) having a count switch 104 (see FIG. 6). The shutter 40 is driven to open until a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses. When a condition for winning a predetermined number of game balls in the grand prize opening 39 or elapse of a predetermined time is satisfied in the open state, the shutter 40 is driven so as to be in a closed state in which it is difficult to accept the game balls. . As a result, the special winning opening 39 is in a closed state where it is difficult to accept a game ball. A game from an open state in which the big prize opening 39 is in a state in which it is easy to accept game balls to a closed state in which the big prize opening 39 is in a state in which it is difficult to accept game balls is called a round game. Accordingly, the shutter 40 is opened during the round game and is closed between the round games. A round game is counted as the number of rounds such as “1” round and “2” round. For example, the first round game may be referred to as the first round and the second round as the second round.

  Subsequently, the shutter 40 driven from the open state to the closed state is driven to the open state again after a predetermined interval time has elapsed. That is, when a predetermined interval time elapses after the round game ends, the game can continue to the next round game. A game from the first round game until the end of the (final) round game that cannot continue to the next round game is called a big hit game.

  During the execution of the jackpot game, the number of rounds from the first round to the last round game (maximum number of continuation rounds) varies depending on the special symbols that are stopped and displayed. For example, in the present embodiment, when the number symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 35 is 64, the maximum number of continuous rounds is 15 and the number symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 35 is 21. In this case, the maximum number of continuation rounds is 15 rounds. When the number symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 35 is 50, the maximum number of continuation rounds is two. The maximum number of continuous rounds is not limited to 2 rounds or 15 rounds. For example, the maximum number of continuous rounds is selected from “1” to “15” rounds by lottery by the round number lottery means (the main control circuit 60 including the main CPU 66 (see FIG. 6)). Also good. Thus, the big winning opening 39 is an example of a winning opening provided in the game area and capable of receiving a game ball.

  In addition, when a game ball wins or passes through the general areas in the general winning ports 56 a to 56 d and the big winning port 39 described above, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out to the upper plate 20 or the lower plate 22.

  Further, when it is determined that a winning is made at the start opening 25 described above, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out to the upper plate 20 or the lower plate 22. As described above, the start opening 25, the big winning opening 39, and the general winning openings 56a, 56b, 56c, and 56d are examples of winning openings that are provided in the game area and can receive game balls.

  In the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device is described as an example of the display unit, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the display means may be any display means such as a plasma display, a rear projection display, a CRT display, or a lamp.

[Fireball detection]
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an internal configuration below the game board 14. A firing solenoid 28 is provided in the vicinity of the firing handle 26. A firing ball detection switch 41 is provided in the vicinity of the firing solenoid 28. The launch solenoid 28 launches game balls supplied via the upper plate 20 one by one to the game board 14, and the launch ball detection switch 41 passes the game balls fired by the launch solenoid 28. Turn on and off. Then, the game ball that has passed through the launch ball detection switch 41 is released toward the entrance of the guide rail 30 and is conveyed to the game board 14 by the guide of the guide rail 30. Here, an opening is formed between the position where the game ball that has passed through the launch ball detection switch 41 is released and the entrance of the guide rail 30, and the collection for collecting the game ball at the lower portion of this opening. A member 43 is provided. The collection member 43 is provided with a return ball detection switch 42. The return ball detection switch 42 is turned on / off every time a game ball passes. Further, the front end portion of the entrance of the outer rail 30a faces the recovery member 43, and the game balls that have not been supplied to the game board 14 move back to the outer rail 30a and move to the recovery member 43 as foul balls. Since the collection member 43 communicates with the lower plate 22, the foul balls are stored in the lower plate 22 (see FIG. 4).

[Electric configuration of gaming machine]
A control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the main control circuit 60 as game control means includes a main CPU 66 as a control means, a main ROM (read only memory) 68, a main RAM (read / write memory) 70 as an example of storage means, and an I / O port 71 and command output port 72 are provided. The main control circuit 60 controls the progress of the game.

  The main CPU 66 is connected to a main ROM 68, a main RAM 70, and the like, and has a function of executing various processes according to a program stored in the main ROM 68.

  In the main ROM 68, a program for controlling the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the main CPU 66 is stored. In addition, various tables referred to when making a big hit determination by random number lottery are also stored. .

  The main RAM 70 has a function of storing various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the main CPU 66. Specific examples of data stored in the main RAM 70 include the following.

  The main RAM 70 relates to a control status flag, a jackpot determination random number counter, a jackpot symbol determination random number counter, a presentation condition selection random number counter, a big prize opening number counter, a waiting time timer, a big prize opening time timer, and a special symbol. Data indicating the number of reserved items, data indicating the number of reserved items related to normal symbols, start prize ball counters, general prize prize ball counters, large prize prize ball counters, difference ball counters, consecutive number of times counters, hourly state change frequency counters, A game state flag, data for supplying a command to the sub-control circuit 200 described later, variables, and the like are positioned.

  The control state flag indicates the control state of the special symbol game or the normal symbol game. In the following description, when the control state flag is simply referred to, it indicates the control state of the special symbol game, and when it is referred to as the normal control state flag, it indicates the control state of the normal symbol game.

  The jackpot determination random number counter is for determining the jackpot of a special symbol. The jackpot symbol determining random number counter is for determining a special symbol to be stopped when a special symbol jackpot is determined. The production condition selection random number counter is for determining a production variation pattern. These counters are stored and updated so that the main CPU 66 sequentially increases “1”, and various functions of the main CPU 66 are executed by extracting random numbers from the counters at a predetermined timing. In the present embodiment, such a random number counter is provided, and the main CPU 66 stores and updates the random number counter so as to increase “1” according to a program. You may comprise so that an apparatus like a generator may be provided.

  The waiting time timer is for synchronizing processing executed in the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200. The special prize opening time timer is for measuring the time for driving the shutter 40 and opening the special prize opening 39. Note that the timer in this embodiment is stored and updated in the main RAM 70 so as to be subtracted by the predetermined cycle at a predetermined cycle. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the CPU itself may include a timer. .

  The big prize opening number counter indicates the number of times the big prize opening is opened in the big hit gaming state (so-called round number). Further, the data indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the special symbol is that when the game ball is won at the starting port 25, but the special symbol variation display cannot be executed, the special symbol game is suspended. This indicates the number of times the symbol game is held. Furthermore, the data indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the normal symbol is that when the game ball has passed through the passing gates 54a and 54b, but the normal symbol variation display cannot be executed, the normal symbol game start is reserved, but the It shows the number of times the normal symbol game is held.

  The start opening prize ball counter indicates the number of game balls that have entered the start opening 25 and are detected by the start winning opening switch 116. The general winning opening prize ball counter indicates the number of game balls that have entered the general winning openings 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d and are detected by the general winning opening switches 106, 108, 110, 112. The special winning opening prize ball counter indicates the number of game balls that have entered the special winning opening 39 and are detected by the count switch 104. The difference ball counter indicates a difference ball between the game ball launched into the game area and the acquired prize ball. The continuous number-of-times counter indicates the number of jackpots that have occurred between the time when the big game is won in the normal gaming state and the time when the normal gaming state is entered again. The time-short state change frequency counter indicates the number of times the identification information changes in the time-short state. The game state flag indicates a game state to be executed.

  The main control circuit 60 includes an initial reset circuit 64 that generates a system reset signal when the power is turned on, and a command output port 72 for supplying a command to a sub control circuit 200 described later. The initial reset circuit 64 is connected to the main CPU 66. The I / O port 71 serves as a window for transmitting input signals from various devices to the main CPU 66 and output signals from the main CPU 66 to various devices. The command output port 72 serves as a window for transmitting a command from the main CPU 66 to the sub control circuit 200 or the payout control circuit 170.

  Also, various devices are connected to the main control circuit 60. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, a difference ball number display ON / OFF switch 80, a count switch 104, and general winning a prize mouth switches 106, 108, 110. , 112, passing gate switches 114, 115, start winning opening switch 116, starting opening solenoid 118, large winning opening solenoid 120, backup clear switch 124, firing ball detection switch 41, return ball detection switch 42, payout control circuit 170, difference A ball display 331, a continuous change count display 333, and an average difference ball display 335 are connected.

  The difference ball number display ON / OFF switch 80 is provided on the front side (player side) of the upper plate 20. When the player depresses the difference ball number display ON / OFF switch 80 to determine whether or not to display the difference ball quantity, a predetermined detection signal is supplied to the main control circuit 60. Thus, the main CPU 66 is an example of a difference ball quantity notification determining unit that determines whether or not to notify the difference ball quantity in the difference ball number notification unit in accordance with the operation of the operation unit.

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

  The general winning opening switches 106, 108, 110, and 112 are provided in the general winning openings 56a to 56d, respectively. The general winning opening switches 106, 108, 110, and 112 supply a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game balls pass through the general winning openings 56 a to 56 d.

  Pass gate switches 114 and 115 are provided in the pass gates 54a and 54b, respectively. The passing gate switches 114 and 115 supply a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when the game balls pass through the passing gates 54a and 54b, respectively.

  The start port solenoid 118 is connected to a blade member of the ordinary electric accessory 48 provided in the start port 25 via a link member (not shown), and the blade member is responsive to a drive signal supplied from the main CPU 66. Is in an open state or a closed state.

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

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

  The firing ball detection switch 41 is provided in the vicinity of the firing solenoid 28 as shown in FIG. The launch ball detection switch 41 detects a game ball launched by the launch solenoid 28 and supplies a detection signal to the main control circuit 60. As described above, the shot ball detection switch 41 is an example of a used game ball detection unit that detects a used game ball that is launched by the launch unit and used in the game.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the return ball detection switch 42 is provided in the vicinity of the launch ball detection switch 41 on the downstream side in the game ball firing direction of the launch solenoid 28. The return ball detection switch 42 detects a game ball that is returned to the guide rail 30 without being released to the game board 14, and supplies a detection signal to the main control circuit 60.

  Further, a payout control circuit 170 is connected to the main control circuit 60. Connected to the payout control circuit 170 are a payout device 140 for paying out game balls, and a card unit 150 for reading information stored in a card. The payout device 140 is provided with a counting switch 141 that detects and counts the game balls paid out by the payout device 140. The payout device 140 is provided with a payout solenoid 142. By driving and controlling the payout solenoid 142, the payout device 140 pays out the game ball supplied from the island facility. As described above, the payout device 140 is an example of a payout means for paying out a prize ball. In this way, the payout control circuit 170 is an example of a payout control unit that performs control for paying out a predetermined number of game balls as prize balls by the payout unit in accordance with the winning of game balls to the winning opening.

  The payout control circuit 170 includes a payout control CPU 172, a payout control ROM 174, a payout control RAM 176, a command input port 178 serving as a window for inputting commands from the main control circuit 60, and the payout control CPU 172 and the card unit 150. An I / O port 180 serving as a window for transmitting / receiving signals between them, and an I / O port 182 serving as a window for transmitting / receiving signals between the payout control CPU 172 and the payout device 140 are provided.

  A prize ball control command supplied from the main control circuit 60 and a lending ball control signal supplied from the card unit 150 are received, and a predetermined signal is transmitted to the payout device 140 to pay the game ball to the payout device 140. Let it come out. For example, when paying out 15 game balls, the payout solenoid 142 is driven to pay out the game balls. The paid out game balls are counted by the counting switch 141. Then, when the payout control circuit 170 counts 15 as the count number of the counting switch 141, the drive of the payout solenoid 142 is stopped and the payout of the game ball is stopped.

  Further, the pachinko gaming machine 10 is provided with a launching device 130 and a launch control circuit 160. The launching device 130 includes a device for launching a game ball such as the launching solenoid 28 and the touch sensor described above. The launch control circuit 160 is provided for controlling the launch of the game ball by supplying a launch signal to the launch device 130 including the launch handle 26, the launch solenoid 28, and the like. When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and operated to rotate in the clockwise direction, the firing control circuit 160 is supplied with power to the firing solenoid according to the rotational angle and stored in the upper plate 20. The played game balls are sequentially fired onto the game board 14 by the firing solenoid. Thus, the launching device 130 is an example of a launching unit that launches a game ball in response to a launching operation by a player.

  Further, the main control circuit 60 includes special symbol hold display LEDs 34a to 34d, normal symbol hold display LEDs 50a to 50d, a special symbol display 35 (7-segment LED), a normal symbol display 33 (display lamp), and a difference ball display. A device 331 (7-segment LED), a continuous channel number display device 333 (7-segment LED), an average difference ball display device 335 (7-segment LED), and the like are connected.

  On the other hand, the sub control circuit 200 is connected to the command output port 72. The sub-control circuit 200 performs display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, control related to sound generated from the speaker 46, control of the lamp / LED 132, and the like according to various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60. Note that the lamp / LED 132 specifically includes a decorative lamp (not shown) that displays light and dark on the game board 14.

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

  The sub control circuit 200 includes a sub CPU 206, a program ROM 208, a work RAM 210, a display control circuit 250 as display control means for performing display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, and a sound control circuit 230 that performs control related to sound generated from the speaker 46. , A lamp control circuit 240 for controlling the lamp / LED 132, and a command input port 260 serving as a window for inputting a command transmitted from the main control circuit 60. The sub control circuit 200 executes an effect corresponding to the progress of the game in accordance with a command from the main control circuit 60.

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

  The program ROM 208 stores a program for controlling the game effects of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the sub CPU 206.

  The program ROM 208 stores a plurality of types of effect patterns. This effect pattern relates to the progress of the effect display that is executed in association with the change display of the special symbol. In addition, the program ROM 208 stores effect patterns during execution of a plurality of types of big hit games. The effect pattern during execution of the jackpot game relates to the progress of the effect display executed in relation to the round game in the jackpot game.

  In the present embodiment, the main control circuit 60 uses the main ROM 68 and the sub control circuit 200 uses the program ROM 208 as storage means for storing programs, tables, etc., but the present invention is not limited to this. As long as it is a storage medium readable by a computer equipped with a storage medium such as a hard disk device, a CD-ROM and a DVD-ROM, and a ROM cartridge, a program, a table, and the like are recorded. May be. Of course, the main ROM 68 may be used as an alternative to the program ROM 208. Even if these programs are not recorded in advance, they may be downloaded after the power is turned on and recorded in the main RAM 70 in the main control circuit 60, the work RAM 210 in the sub control circuit 200, and the like. . Furthermore, each program may be recorded on a separate storage medium.

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

  In this embodiment, the main RAM 70 is used as the temporary storage area of the main CPU 66 and the work RAM 210 is used as the temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any readable / writable storage medium may be used.

  The lamp control circuit 240 includes a drive circuit and a decoration data ROM, and is connected to the sub CPU 206. The light emission of the lamp / LED 132 is controlled via the drive circuit.

  The display control circuit 250 generates an image data processor (hereinafter referred to as VDP), an image data ROM that stores various image data, a D / A converter that converts image data as an image signal, and a reset signal when the power is turned on. It consists of an initial reset circuit.

  The VDP described above is connected to the sub CPU 206, the image data ROM, the D / A converter, and the initial reset circuit.

  This VDP includes a so-called sprite circuit, a screen circuit, a pallet circuit, and the like, and is a device that can perform various processes for causing the liquid crystal display device 32 to display an image. That is, the VDP performs display control for the liquid crystal display device 32. Further, the VDP includes a storage medium (for example, a video RAM) as a buffer for displaying an image on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. By storing the image data in a predetermined storage area of the storage medium, an image is displayed on the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 at a predetermined timing.

  In the image data ROM, various image data such as identification symbol image data, special image data, background image data and effect image data are separately stored. Of course, related image data indicating a related image is also stored.

  The VDP reads various image data such as special image data, background image data, and effect image data from the image data ROM in accordance with an image display command supplied from the sub CPU 206, and displays the image data on the liquid crystal display device 32. Is generated. The VDP superimposes the generated image data in order from the image data located at the rear, stores it in a buffer, and supplies it to the D / A converter at a predetermined timing. The D / A converter converts image data as an image signal, and supplies the image signal to the liquid crystal display device 32, thereby causing the liquid crystal display device 32 to display an image.

  The sound control circuit 230 also includes a sound source IC that performs control related to sound, a sound data ROM that stores sound data of various effect sound effects including BGM, and an amplifier (hereinafter referred to as AMP) for amplifying sound signals. ) Etc.

  The sound source IC 232 is connected to the sub CPU 206, the initial reset circuit, the audio data ROM, and the AMP. The sound source IC controls sound generated from the speaker 46.

[Main control main processing]
The main control main process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S9, initialization setting processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads a startup program from the main ROM 68 in response to power-on, initializes a flag stored in the main RAM 70, or performs a process of returning to a state before power-off. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S10.

  In step S10, initial value random number update processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of updating the initial value random number counter. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S11.

  In step S11, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the system timer monitoring timer value is 3. In this process, the main CPU 66 refers to the system timer monitoring timer value stored in the main RAM 70. If the system timer monitoring timer value is 3, the process moves to step S12, and the system timer monitoring timer value is 3. If not, the process proceeds to step S10.

  In step S12, a system timer monitoring timer reset process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of resetting the system timer monitoring timer stored in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S13.

  In step S13, timer update processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 waits for a synchronization between the main control circuit 60 and the sub-control circuit 200, and a big prize for measuring the opening time of the big prize opening 39 that is opened when a big hit occurs. Executes processing to update various timers such as mouth open timer. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S14.

  In step S14, a special symbol control process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a special symbol control process. The special symbol control process will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S15.

  In step S15, normal symbol control processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts a random number value in accordance with the detection signals from the pass gate switches 114 and 115, refers to the normal symbol winning table stored in the main ROM 68, and determines whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won. And processing for storing the result of the determination in the main RAM 70 is performed. The normal symbol control process will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S16.

  In step S16, a symbol display device control process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines the special symbol display 35 and the normal symbol display 33 according to the result of the special symbol control process stored in the main RAM 70 in step S14 and step S15 and the result of the normal symbol control process. And a process of storing a control signal for driving the round number display 51 in the main RAM 70. The main CPU 66 transmits a control signal to the special symbol display 35 in step S20 described later. The special symbol display 35 displays the special symbol in a variable manner and a stop manner based on the received control signal. Based on the received control signal, the normal symbol display 33 displays the normal symbol in a variable manner and stops. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S17.

  In step S17, a difference ball number display control process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of storing, in the main RAM 70, control signals for driving the difference ball display 331, the continuous change number display 333, and the average difference ball display 335. In step S <b> 20 described later, the main CPU 66 transmits the control signals to the difference ball display 331, the consecutive number of times display 333, and the average difference ball display 335. The difference ball indicator 331 displays the number of difference balls based on the received control signal. The continuous channel number display 333 displays the continuous channel number based on the received control signal. The average difference ball indicator 335 displays the average difference ball number based on the received control signal. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S18.

  In step S18, game information data generation processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of generating a game state command related to game information data to be transmitted to the outside of the gaming machine (for example, a computer or a hall computer) and storing it in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S19.

  In step S19, symbol reservation number data generation processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 detects detection signals from the start winning port switch 116 and the pass gate switches 114 and 115 detected in the switch input detection process (FIG. 8, step S46) in the system timer interruption process described later, The special symbol hold display LEDs 34a to 34d and the normal symbol hold display LEDs 50a to 50d are driven based on the update result of the reserved number data stored in the main RAM 70 that is updated in accordance with the execution of the special symbol and normal symbol variation display. The control signal for storing is stored in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S20.

  In step S20, port output processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of outputting a control signal stored in the main RAM 70 to each port in the above steps. Specifically, special symbol hold display LEDs 34a to 34d (see FIG. 3), normal symbol hold display LEDs 50a to 50d (see FIG. 3), special symbol display 35 (7 segment LED, see FIG. 3), normal symbol display 33 (indicating LED, see FIG. 3), a difference ball indicator 331, a continuous number of times indicator 333, and an average difference ball indicator 335 are provided with an LED power source (common signal) for turning on the LED and a solenoid power source for driving the solenoid. Supply. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S21.

  In step S21, a storage / game state command control process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether a certain change flag or a short-time state flag is set in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70, and determines that a certain change flag or a short-time state flag is set. Processing for generating a command and transmitting it to the sub-control circuit 200 is performed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S22.

  In step S22, an effect control command output control process is performed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 performs output control processing of the effect control command to the sub control circuit 200. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S23.

  In step S23, a payout process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 checks whether or not a game ball has won a prize winning port 39, a starting port 25, and general winning ports 56a to 56d, and if there is a winning, a payout request command corresponding to each. Is sent to the payout control CPU 172 of the payout control circuit 170. The payout process will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S10.

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

  In step S41, a process for saving each register is performed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 performs processing for saving values used in the program being executed stored in each register (storage area) of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S42.

  In step S42, the system timer monitoring timer value is incremented by one. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of adding 1 to the value of the system timer monitoring timer stored in the main RAM 70. The system timer monitoring timer is a monitoring timer for executing a predetermined process (such as a special symbol control process) on the condition that the timer interrupt process is started a predetermined number of times (three times). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S43.

  In step S43, random number update processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of updating a random number value such as a jackpot determination random number counter stored in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S44.

  In step S44, an input port reading process is performed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 performs processing for reading detection signals from the respective ports. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S46.

  In step S46, a switch input detection process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of detecting a detection signal from each switch such as the start winning a prize opening switch 116. The switch input detection process will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S47.

  In step S47, processing for restoring each register is performed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 performs processing for restoring the values saved in step S42 to the respective registers. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S49.

  In step S49, an interrupt permission process is performed. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished, and the address before the interruption is restored.

[Switch input detection processing]
The switch input detection process will be described below with reference to FIG.

  In step S50, a prize ball related switch check process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 checks whether or not a detection signal is received from the count switch 104, the general winning opening switch 106, 108, 110, 112, or the starting winning opening switch 116, and when the detection signal is received. , 1 is added to the winning ball counter corresponding to the count switch 104, the general winning opening switch 106, 108, 110, 112 and the starting winning opening switch 116. Details of this processing will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to step S52.

  In step S52, a special symbol related switch check process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of checking whether or not a detection signal from the start winning a prize opening switch 116 has been received. When a detection signal is received from the start winning port switch 116, it is determined whether or not the holding number is an upper limit (for example, four), and a special symbol game jackpot determination random number value and a jackpot symbol determination random number value Are extracted and stored in a special symbol storage area of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to step S54.

  In step S54, a normal symbol related switch check process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of checking whether or not the detection signals from the pass gate switches 114 and 115 have been received. Further, when the detection signals from the pass gate switches 114 and 115 are received, it is determined whether or not the reserved number is an upper limit (for example, four), and a random number value for determining a hit of the normal symbol game is extracted. A process of storing in the normal symbol storage area of the RAM 70 is performed. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Prize ball related switch check processing]
The prize ball-related switch check process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S60, the main CPU 66 performs processing for detecting an input port (I / O port 71). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S61.

  In step S61, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the start winning opening switch 116 has detected a game ball. If it is determined that a game ball has been detected, the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S62. If it is not determined that a game ball has been detected, the process proceeds to step S65.

  In step S62, the main CPU 66 performs a process of adding 1 to the value of the start opening prize counter. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S63.

  In step S63, the main CPU 66 performs a process of determining whether or not the normal gaming state. Specifically, the main CPU 66 refers to the gaming state flag stored in the main RAM 70, and moves to step S65 when it is determined as the normal gaming state, and proceeds to step S64 when it is not determined as the normal gaming state. Move processing.

  In step S64, the main CPU 66 performs a process of adding 3 to the value of the difference ball counter. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S65. As described above, the main CPU 66 is an example of a prize ball detection unit that detects a prize ball that a player acquires in accordance with a winning of a game ball to the prize opening based on an input signal from the start prize opening switch 116. .

  In step S65, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the general winning opening switch 106, 108, 110, 112 has detected a game ball. If it is determined that a game ball has been detected, the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S66. . If it is not determined that a game ball has been detected, the process proceeds to step S69.

  In step S66, the main CPU 66 performs a process of adding 1 to the value of the general winning opening prize ball counter. When this process ends, the process proceeds to step S67.

  In step S67, the main CPU 66 performs a process of determining whether or not the normal gaming state. Specifically, the main CPU 66 refers to the gaming state flag stored in the main RAM 70 and moves to step S69 if it is determined to be the normal gaming state, and to step S68 if it is not determined to be the normal gaming state. Move processing.

  In step S68, the main CPU 66 performs a process of adding 10 to the value of the difference ball counter. If this process ends, the process moves to step S69. As described above, the main CPU 66 detects a winning ball that is detected by the player in accordance with the winning of the game ball at the winning port based on the detection signals from the general winning port switches 106, 108, 110, and 112. It is an example of a means.

  In step S69, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the count switch 104 has detected a game ball. If it is determined that the game ball has been detected, the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S70. If it is not determined that a game ball has been detected, the process proceeds to step S73.

  In step S70, the main CPU 66 performs a process of adding 1 to the value of the big prize winning ball counter. If this process ends, the process moves to step S71.

  In step S71, the main CPU 66 performs a process of determining whether or not the normal gaming state. Specifically, the main CPU 66 refers to the gaming state flag stored in the main RAM 70 and moves to step S73 if it is determined to be the normal gaming state, and to step S72 if it is not determined to be the normal gaming state. Move processing.

  In step S72, the main CPU 66 performs a process of adding 15 to the value of the difference ball counter. If this process ends, the process moves to step S73. As described above, the main CPU 66 is an example of a prize ball detection unit that detects a prize ball that the player acquires in accordance with the winning of a game ball to the prize opening based on the detection signal from the count switch 104.

  In step S73, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the return ball detection switch 42 has detected a game ball. If it is determined that a game ball has been detected, the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S74. If it is not determined that a game ball has been detected, the process proceeds to step S76.

  In step S74, the main CPU 66 performs a process of determining whether or not the normal gaming state. Specifically, the main CPU 66 refers to the gaming state flag stored in the main RAM 70 and moves to step S76 if it is determined to be the normal gaming state, and to step S75 if it is not determined to be the normal gaming state. Move processing.

  In step S75, the main CPU 66 performs a process of adding 1 to the value of the difference ball counter. If this process ends, the process moves to step S76.

  In step S76, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the shot ball detection switch 41 has detected a game ball. If it is determined that a game ball has been detected, the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S77. If it is not determined that a game ball has been detected, this subroutine is terminated.

  In step S77, the main CPU 66 performs a process of determining whether or not the normal gaming state. Specifically, the main CPU 66 refers to the gaming state flag stored in the main RAM 70, ends the subroutine when it is determined as the normal gaming state, and proceeds to step S78 when it is not determined as the normal gaming state. Move.

  In step S78, the main CPU 66 performs a process of subtracting 1 from the value of the difference ball counter. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  By the above processing, the main CPU 66 moves from the shot ball detection switch 41 and the return ball detection switch 42 during the period from the transition to the specific game state (for example, the probability change game state or the short-time game state) to the normal game state. The number of game balls used based on the number of game balls used based on the detection results and the number of prize balls based on the detection results from the start winning port switch 116, the general winning port switches 106, 108, 110, 112, and the count switch 104. And the number of balls that are different from the number of prize balls. In this way, the main CPU 66 uses the difference between the number of used game balls and the number of prize balls in the period from the transition from the normal game state to the specific game state until the normal game state is reached again. It is an example of a difference ball quantity specifying means that is specified based on the detection result of the prize ball detecting means.

[Difference display control processing]
The difference ball display control process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S80, the main CPU 66 performs a process of reading the difference ball counter from the main RAM 70 and setting difference ball number display data based on the read difference ball counter. The set difference ball number display data is transmitted to the difference ball display 331 in the process of step S20 of FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S81.

  In step S <b> 81, the main CPU 66 reads the continuous channel number counter from the main RAM 70 and performs processing for setting continuous channel number display data based on the read continuous channel number counter. The set continuous channel number display data is transmitted to the continuous channel number display 333 in the process of step S20 of FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S82.

  In step S82, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the average difference ball calculation data is set. If it is determined that the average difference ball calculation data is set, the process moves to step S83, and the average difference ball is determined. If it is not determined that the calculation data is set, the process proceeds to step S84. In addition, since the average difference ball calculation data is set at the end of the time reduction, the data is set only in the normal gaming state.

  In step S83, the main CPU 66 performs a process of setting the average difference ball number display data based on the average difference ball calculation data. The set average difference ball number display data is transmitted to the average difference ball indicator 335 in the process of step S20 of FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S84.

  In step S84, the main CPU 66 performs a process of determining whether or not the difference ball number display is in an ON state. More specifically, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the difference ball number display is in the ON state based on the detection signal from the difference ball number display ON / OFF switch 80, and determines that the difference ball number display is in the ON state. If this is the case, this subroutine is terminated, and if it is not determined that the difference ball number display is in the ON state, the process proceeds to step S85. In this way, the main CPU 66 performs control for notifying the difference amount in the difference amount notification means on the condition that the difference amount notification determination means notifies the difference amount quantity to be notified. It is an example of a means.

  In step S85, the main CPU 66 performs processing for clearing the difference ball number display data, the continuous number of times display data, and the average difference ball number display data. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Special symbol control processing]
The subroutine executed in step S14 in FIG. 7 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 12, the numerical values drawn from step S102 to step S111 indicate the control state flags corresponding to those steps, and one step corresponding to the numerical value according to the numerical value of the control state flag. Will be executed and the special symbol game will proceed.

  First, as shown in FIG. 12, a process for loading a control state flag is executed (step S101). In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S102.

  In steps S102 to S111, which will be described later, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to execute various processes in each step based on the value of the control state flag, as will be described later. This control state flag indicates the game state of the special symbol game, and enables one of the processes from step S102 to step S111 to be executed. In addition, the main CPU 66 executes processing in each step at a predetermined timing determined in accordance with a waiting time timer set for each step. Before reaching the predetermined timing, the process ends without executing the process in each step, and another subroutine is executed. Of course, the system timer interrupt process is also executed at a predetermined cycle.

  In step S102, a special symbol memory check process is executed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S103.

  In step S103, a special symbol variation time management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets the value (02) indicating the special symbol display time management to the control state flag when the control state flag is the value (01) indicating the special symbol variation time management. Set the waiting time after confirmation (for example, 1 second) in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S104 after the waiting time after the determination has elapsed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S104.

  In step S104, a special symbol display time management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not it is a big hit when the control state flag is a value (02) indicating special symbol display time management and the waiting time after determination has elapsed. In the case of a big hit, the main CPU 66 sets a value (03) indicating the big hit start interval management in the control state flag, and sets a time corresponding to the big hit start interval in the waiting time timer. That is, after the time corresponding to the big hit start interval elapses, the process of step S105 is set to be executed. On the other hand, the main CPU 66 sets a value (07) indicating the end of the special symbol game when it is not a big hit. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S111. Details of the special symbol display time management process will be described later with reference to FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S105.

  In step S105, a big hit start interval management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 has a value (03) indicating that the control status flag indicates the jackpot start interval management, and when the time corresponding to the jackpot start interval has elapsed, the main winning prize port 39 read from the main ROM 68 is obtained. Is stored in the main RAM 70. Then, in the process of step S20 in FIG. 7, the main CPU 66 reads data for opening the big prize opening 39 stored in the main RAM 70, and sends a signal indicating that the big prize opening 39 is opened to the big prize opening solenoid. 120. As described above, the main CPU 66 and the like perform opening / closing control of the special winning opening 39. That is, one round game in which a predetermined advantageous gaming state (a gaming state from the open state where the big winning opening 39 easily accepts the game ball to the closed state where the big winning opening 39 hardly accepts the game ball) is provided a plurality of times. A jackpot game that may be repeated is executed. Further, the game advantageous to the player may be that a variable winning device that can be opened and closed such as the big winning opening 39 is opened.

  Further, the main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the big prize opening is being opened in the control state flag, and sets the upper opening limit time (for example, 30 seconds) in the big prize opening time timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S108. Further, the main CPU 66 assigns a predetermined number (for example, “15”) to the round number display counter in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S107.

  In step S107, a waiting time management process before reopening the big winning opening is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets the special prize opening number counter when the control status flag is a value (05) indicating the waiting time management before the big prize opening reopening and the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed. The memory is updated so that “1” is increased. The main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the special winning opening is open in the control state flag. The main CPU 66 sets an opening upper limit time (for example, 30 seconds) in the big prize opening time timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S108. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S108.

  In step S108, a special winning opening opening process is executed. In this process, when the control status flag is a value (04) indicating that the big prize opening is being opened, the main CPU 66 has passed the condition that the big prize opening prize counter is “10” or more, and the opening upper limit time ( It is determined whether or not any of the conditions that the big prize opening time timer is “0” is satisfied. The main CPU 66 updates a variable positioned in the main RAM 70 in order to close the special winning opening 39 when any of the conditions is satisfied. Then, it is determined whether or not a condition that the special winning opening opening number counter is equal to or greater than the maximum winning opening opening number (the final round) is satisfied. When this condition is satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (06) indicating the big hit end interval in the control state flag, and sets a time corresponding to the big hit end interval in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the big hit end interval has elapsed, the setting of step S110 is performed. On the other hand, when this condition is not satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (05) indicating the waiting time management before reopening the big winning opening to the control state flag. Further, the main CPU 66 sets a time corresponding to the interval between rounds in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed, the setting of step S107 is executed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S110.

  In step S110, a jackpot end interval process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets a value (07) indicating the end of the special symbol game when the control state flag is a value (06) indicating the jackpot end interval and the time corresponding to the jackpot end interval has elapsed. Set to flag. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S111. Further, the main CPU 66 sets a value (for example, 1) indicating a high probability in the gaming state flag when the probability changing state is entered. Further, the main CPU 66 sets a value (for example, 2) indicating a low probability time reduction to the gaming state flag of the main RAM 70 and sets 100 to the time reduction state change count counter when the time reduction state is set. Details of the jackpot end interval process will be described later with reference to FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S111.

  In step S111, a special symbol game end process is executed. In this process, when the control state flag is a value (07) indicating the end of the special symbol game, the main CPU 66 updates the memory (starting storage information) indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the special symbol so as to decrease by “1”. To do. Further, the main CPU 66 sets data indicating a start memory number designation command indicating that the start memory information is decreased by “1” in a predetermined storage area in the main RAM 70. Then, the main CPU 66 updates the special symbol storage area in order to perform the next fluctuation display. The main CPU 66 sets a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S102.

  As described above, the special symbol game is executed by setting the control state flag. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12, the main CPU 66 sets the control status flag to “00”, “01”, “02”, when the big hit determination result is out of order when the big hit gaming state is not set. By setting “07” in order, the processing of step S102, step S103, step S104, and step S111 shown in FIG. 12 is executed at a predetermined timing. Further, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag in the order of “00”, “01”, “02”, “03” when the result of the big hit determination is a big hit when it is not the big hit gaming state, The processing of step S102, step S103, step S104, and step S105 shown in FIG. 12 is executed at a predetermined timing, and control to the big hit gaming state is executed. Further, when the control to the big hit gaming state is executed, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag in the order of “04” and “05”, thereby performing the processing of steps S108 and S107 shown in FIG. Is executed at a predetermined timing, and a big hit game is executed. When the big hit game end condition is satisfied, the processing from step S108 to step S111 shown in FIG. 12 is executed at a predetermined timing by sequentially setting “04”, “06”, and “07”. The jackpot game will end.

[Special symbol memory check processing]
The subroutine executed in step S102 in FIG. 12 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 13, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the control state flag is a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check (step S121). If it is determined that the control state flag is a value indicating a special symbol storage check, the process proceeds to step S122. If it is determined that the control state flag is not a value indicating a special symbol storage check, this subroutine is terminated. To do.

  In step S122, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the number of reserved symbols related to the special symbol is “0”. If it is determined that the data indicating the reserved number related to the special symbol is “0”, the process proceeds to step S123. If it is determined that the data indicating the reserved number is not “0”, the process proceeds to step S124. Transfer.

  In step S123, a demonstration display process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a variable for supplying a demonstration display command to the sub control circuit 200 in the main RAM 70 in order to perform a demonstration display. By transmitting this demonstration display command to the sub-control circuit 200 in the effect control command output control process of step S22 of FIG. 7, the sub-control circuit 200 displays the demo screen. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S124, a process of setting a value (01) indicating special symbol variation time management as a control state flag is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a value indicating special symbol variation time management in the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S125.

  In step S125, a jackpot determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 selects a jackpot determination value stored in the jackpot determination table. Then, the main CPU 66 refers to the random number value extracted at the time of starting winning and the jackpot determination value. That is, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to enter a big hit gaming state advantageous to the player. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S126.

  In the present embodiment, after the jackpot game is finished, a large number of jackpot determination values are set in a low probability state in which a predetermined number of jackpot determination values are set for a certain range of random values, and in a low probability state. Transition to one of the gaming states of the high probability state.

  In step S126, a symbol determination process is executed. In this process, if the main CPU 66 determines that it is a big win in step S125, the main CPU 66 extracts the big hit symbol determination random number value extracted at the time of starting winning, and displays the special symbol display based on the big hit symbol determination random value. A special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the device 35 is determined, and data indicating the special symbol is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S129. If it is not determined that the game is a big hit (missing), the main RAM 70 stores data indicating the special symbol determined to be the special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 35.

  Note that the symbol designation command stored in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 by the process of step S126 is the stop symbol designation command from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S22 of FIG. Supplied as

  In step S129, a variation pattern determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts a rendering condition selection random value. The main CPU 66 selects a special symbol variation pattern command from the variation pattern table stored in the main ROM 68 based on the special symbol determined in step S126. Specifically, a special symbol variation pattern command corresponding to the special symbol determined in step S126 is selected and stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70.

  The special symbol variation pattern command for effect stored in this way is supplied as a variation pattern designation command from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S22 of FIG. The sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 executes an effect display according to the received variation pattern designation command. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S130.

  In step S130, a process of setting a variation time corresponding to the determined variation pattern for production in the waiting time timer is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the variation time corresponding to the effect variation pattern determined by the process of step S129 from the table, and stores the value indicating the variation time in the waiting time timer. Then, a process of clearing the storage area in which the jackpot determination random number used for the current variation display is stored is executed (step S131). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Special symbol display time management process]
Hereinafter, the special symbol display time management process executed in step S103 (see FIG. 12) of the main process described above will be described.

  In the special symbol display time management process, as shown in FIG. 14, in step S141, the main CPU 66 performs a process of determining whether or not the control state flag is a value (02) indicating the special symbol display time management process. . If it is determined that the control state flag is a value (02) indicating the special symbol display time management process, the process proceeds to step S142. If it is not determined that the control state flag is the value (02) indicating the special symbol display time management process, this subroutine is terminated.

  In step S142, the main CPU 66 determines that the value of the waiting time timer (t) corresponding to the special symbol display management process is “0” when the control state flag is a value (02) indicating the special symbol display time management process. Judge whether there is. Further, when the value of the waiting time timer is “0”, the main CPU 66 proceeds to the processing of step S143, and when the value of the waiting time timer is not “0”, the main CPU 66 ends the present subroutine.

  In step S143, the main CPU 66 performs a process of determining whether or not it is a big hit. If it is not a big hit, the process proceeds to step S144. If it is a big hit, the process proceeds to step S150.

  In step S144, the main CPU 66 sets a value (07) indicating a special symbol game end process in the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to step S145.

  In step S <b> 145, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the value of the short-time state variation number counter in the main RAM 70 is “0”. If the value of the short time state change count counter is “0”, this subroutine is terminated. If the value of the short time state fluctuation count counter is not “0”, the process proceeds to step S146.

  In step S <b> 146, the main CPU 66 performs a process of subtracting 1 from the value of the short-time state fluctuation number counter in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to step S147.

  In step S 147, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the value of the time-short state change frequency counter in the main RAM 70 is “0”. If the value of the short time state variation number counter is not “0”, this subroutine is terminated. If the value of the short time state fluctuation count counter is “0”, the process proceeds to step S148.

  In step S148, the main CPU 66 performs a process of clearing the gaming state flag of the main RAM 70 and setting a command indicating the normal state as the gaming state command. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S149.

  In step S149, the main CPU 66 calculates the number of difference balls per jackpot based on the difference ball counter and the continuous number of times counter stored in the main RAM 70, and sets the average difference ball calculation data in the main RAM 70. I do. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished. As described above, the main CPU 66 makes one transition to the specific gaming state based on the difference ball quantity specified by the difference ball quantity specifying unit and the number of transitions to the specific gaming state counted by the transition number counting unit. It is an example of the average difference ball quantity calculation means which calculates the average difference ball quantity per hit.

  In step S150, the main CPU 66 performs a process of determining whether or not the normal gaming state. Specifically, the main CPU 66 refers to the gaming state flag stored in the main RAM 70 and moves to step S151 when it is determined as the normal gaming state, and proceeds to step S157 when it is not determined as the normal gaming state. Move processing.

  In step S151, the main CPU 66 performs processing for clearing the difference ball counter and the average difference ball number calculation data in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S152.

  In step S <b> 152, the main CPU 66 performs a process of setting 1 to the continuous counter of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S153.

  In step S153, the main CPU 66 performs a process of clearing the big hit flag, the big prize release number counter, the game state flag, and the short time state change number counter of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S154.

  In step S154, the main CPU 66 performs a process of setting a value (03) indicating the big hit start interval management process in the control state flag of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S155.

  In step S155, the main CPU 66 performs a process of setting a waiting time timer (for example, 5000 milliseconds) as the big hit start interval time in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S156.

  In step S156, the main CPU 66 performs a process of setting a big hit start command in the main RAM. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S157, the main CPU 66 performs a process of adding 1 to the continuous number of times counter of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S153. As described above, the main CPU 66 counts the number of times of transition from the normal gaming state to the specific gaming state until the transition to the specific gaming state (for example, the probability variation gaming state) in the period until the normal gaming state is reached again. It is an example of a counting means.

[Big hit end interval processing]
The jackpot end interval process executed in step S110 (see FIG. 12) of the special symbol control process described above will be described below.

  As shown in FIG. 15, in the big hit end interval process, in step S161, the main CPU 66 performs a process of determining whether or not the control state flag of the main RAM 70 is a value (06) indicating the big hit end interval process. If it is determined that the control state flag is a value (06) indicating the big hit end interval process, the process proceeds to step S162. When it is not determined that the control state flag is a value (06) indicating the big hit end interval process, this subroutine is ended.

  In step S162, the main CPU 66 determines that the value of the waiting time timer (t) corresponding to the jackpot end interval is “0” when the control state flag of the main RAM 70 is a value (06) indicating the jackpot end interval process. It is determined whether or not. Further, when the value of the waiting time timer is “0”, the main CPU 66 proceeds to the processing of step S163, and when the value of the waiting time timer is not “0”, the main CPU 66 ends the present subroutine.

  In step S163, the main CPU 66 sets a value (07) indicating the end of the special symbol game in the main RAM 70 in the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S164.

  In step S164, the main CPU 66 performs a process of determining whether or not the probability variation big hit (whether or not the big hit symbol is a probability variation symbol). If it is determined that it is a probable big hit, the process proceeds to step S165. If it is not determined that it is a probable big hit, the process proceeds to step S170.

  In step S165, the main CPU 66 sets a value (for example, 1) indicating a high probability in the gaming state flag of the main RAM 70. As a result, the winning probability in the special symbol game after the big hit game is in a high probability state, and at the same time, the winning probability in the normal symbol game is in a high probability state, and the normal symbol waiting time (the time that the normal symbol fluctuates) is short, and the winning The opening time of the ordinary electric accessory 48 at the time becomes longer. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S166.

  In step S166, the main CPU 66 performs a process of setting a game state command for shifting to a probability change state after the big hit game in the transmission buffer (main RAM 70). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S <b> 170, the main CPU 66 sets a value (for example, 2) indicating a low probability time reduction in the gaming state flag of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S171.

  In step S171, the main CPU 66 performs a process of setting a game state command for shifting to the short time state after the big hit game in the transmission buffer (main RAM 70). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S172. As a result, the winning probability in the special symbol game after the big hit game is in a low probability state, but the winning probability in the normal symbol game is in a high probability state, the normal symbol waiting time is short, and the normal electric actor 48 at the time of winning is The opening time becomes longer.

  In step S <b> 172, the main CPU 66 performs a process of setting “100” in the time-short state change frequency counter of the main RAM 70. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  Thus, when the predetermined game state transition condition is satisfied, the main CPU 66 shifts to a specific game state (big hit) that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state, and when the predetermined special game transition condition is satisfied. In addition, after the end of the specific gaming state, the state shifts to a special gaming state that is more likely to be in the specific gaming state than the normal gaming state (for example, a probability variation gaming state, a short time state), and a predetermined normal gaming transition condition is satisfied This is an example of the game control means for performing control to shift from the special game state to the normal game state when the game is played.

[Normal symbol control processing]
Below, the normal symbol control process performed in step S15 (refer FIG. 7) of the main process mentioned above is demonstrated.

  In the normal symbol control process, as shown in FIG. 16, in step S200, the main CPU 66 executes a process of loading the normal control state flag. The normal control state flag is a flag indicating a game state in the normal symbol game. Based on the normal control state flag, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to execute each process in steps S210 to S250. To do. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S210.

  In step S210, the main CPU 66 sets the normal control state flag to a value (00) indicating the normal symbol memory check process, and the value of the normal symbol reserved memory number data, which is data indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the normal symbol, is “1” or more. If it is, it is determined whether or not the random number value for hit determination matches the hit determination value (hit determination). Further, when the high or low probability time is set in the gaming state flag, the main CPU 66 changes the fluctuation pattern (LED light emission pattern) of the normal symbol display 33 with a short fluctuation time (for example, 5.1 seconds). Set. On the other hand, the main CPU 66 sets the fluctuation pattern of the normal symbol display 33 having a long fluctuation time (for example, 30 seconds) when the high or low probability time is not set in the gaming state flag.

  Further, the main CPU 66 sets a value (01) indicating the normal symbol variation time management process in the normal control state flag. Details of the normal symbol memory check process will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S220.

  In step S220, the main CPU 66 determines that the normal symbol display time management is performed when the normal control state flag is a value (01) indicating the normal symbol variation time management process and the value of the waiting time timer of the normal symbol is “0”. A value (02) indicating the process is set in the normal control state flag and set in the waiting time timer after determination. Details of the normal symbol variation time management process will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S230.

  In step S230, the main CPU 66 determines that the normal control state flag is a value (02) indicating the normal symbol display time management process, and the value of the waiting time timer in which the waiting time after determination is set is “0”. The following processing is performed.

  That is, when the main CPU 66 determines that it is a win, and when the high probability or the low probability time is not set, the time for opening the normal electric utility 48 (see FIG. 4) at the normal time (for example, 0) .3 seconds) and the number of times (for example, once), and when the high probability or low probability time / short time is set, the normal electric accessory 48 (high probability (probability change), low probability time / short time) The opening time (for example, 1.8 seconds) and the number of times (for example, 3 times) are set. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 determines that it is not a win, it sets a value (04) indicating a normal symbol game end process in the control state flag. Details of the normal symbol display time management process will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S240.

  In step S240, the main CPU 66 sets the normal control state flag to a value (03) indicating that the normal electric accessory 48 (see FIG. 4) in the normal state is opened, and the value of the normal electric winning prize counter is “4”. If it is equal to or greater than “0”, the value (04) indicating the end of the normal symbol game is set in the normal control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S250.

  In step S250, when the normal control state flag is a value (04) indicating the normal symbol game end process, the main CPU 66 subtracts 1 from the value of the normal symbol hold storage number data, and also stores the normal symbol start storage data. The area is shifted, clear data is set in the normal symbol start storage data area, and a value (00) indicating the normal symbol storage check process is set in the normal control state flag. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Normal symbol memory check processing]
Hereinafter, the normal symbol memory check process executed in step S210 (see FIG. 16) of the above-described normal symbol control process will be described.

  In the normal symbol memory check process, as shown in FIG. 17, in step S300, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the normal control state flag is a value (00) indicating the normal symbol memory check process. When the normal control state flag is a value (00) indicating the normal symbol storage check process, the main CPU 66 proceeds to the process of step S310, and the normal control state flag is a value (00) indicating the normal symbol storage check process. Otherwise, this subroutine is terminated.

  In step S <b> 310, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the value of the normal symbol hold storage number data (hold number) stored in the main RAM 70 is “0”. If the value of the normal symbol reserved memory number data (holding number) is not “0”, the process proceeds to step S320, and if the value of the normal symbol reserved memory number data (holding number) is “0”. This subroutine is finished.

  In step S320, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to shift to the hit state (the state in which the blade member of the normal electric accessory 48 is opened) after the normal symbol variation display is executed. Specifically, the main CPU 66 refers to the hit determination table and extracts the hit determination value stored in the hit determination table and when the game ball passes through the passing gates 54a and 54b included in the start-up memory. It is determined whether or not the random number value for determination per normal symbol matches. When the determination is successful, the main CPU 66 sets a winning symbol and sets a winning flag “77”. On the other hand, if the determination is out of place, the out-of-line symbol is set. If this process ends, the process moves to step S330.

  In step S330, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the gaming state flag has a high probability or a low probability. If the gaming state flag has a high probability or a low probability, the process proceeds to step S360. If the gaming state flag is not a high probability or a low probability, the process proceeds to step S350.

  In step S350, the main CPU 66 performs processing for setting 30-second variation pattern command data. That is, 30 seconds is set in the normal symbol waiting time timer. If this process ends, the process moves to step S370.

  In step S360, the main CPU 66 performs processing for setting 5.1 second variation pattern command data. That is, 5.1 seconds is set to the normal symbol waiting time timer. If this process ends, the process moves to step S370.

  In step S370, the main CPU 66 sets a value (01) indicating normal symbol variation time management in the normal control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to step S380.

  In step S380, the main CPU 66 clears the storage area used for the current variation. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Normal symbol variation time management processing]
The normal symbol variation time management process executed in step S220 (see FIG. 16) of the normal symbol control process described above will be described below. In the normal symbol variation time management process, as shown in FIG. 18, in step S400, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the value is a value (01) indicating the normal symbol variation time management process. When the normal control state flag is a value (01) indicating the normal symbol variation time management process, the process proceeds to step S410, and when the normal control state flag is not a value (01) indicating the normal symbol variation time management process. Ends this subroutine.

  In step S410, when the normal control state flag is a value (01) indicating the normal symbol variation time management process, whether or not the value of the waiting time timer (t) corresponding to the normal symbol variation time management is “0”. To determine. If the value of the waiting time timer is “0”, the process proceeds to step S420. If the value of the waiting time timer is not “0”, this subroutine is terminated.

  In step S420, when the value of the waiting time timer is “0”, the main CPU 66 sets a value (02) indicating normal symbol display time management. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S430.

  In step S430, the main CPU 66 sets the waiting time (0.5 seconds) after the determination of data for stopping and displaying the red LED and the green LED of the normal symbol display 33 to the normal symbol waiting time timer. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Normal symbol display time management processing]
The normal symbol display time management process executed in step S230 (see FIG. 16) of the normal symbol control process described above will be described below. In the normal symbol display time management process, as shown in FIG. 19, in step S500, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the normal control state flag is a value (02) indicating the normal symbol display time management process. When the normal control state flag is a value (02) indicating the normal symbol display time management process, the process proceeds to step S510, and when the normal control state flag is not a value (02) indicating the normal symbol display time management process. Ends this subroutine.

  In step S510, when the normal control state flag is the value (02) indicating the normal symbol display time management process, the main CPU 66 sets the value of the waiting time timer (t) corresponding to the normal symbol display time management to “0”. It is determined whether or not. If the value of the normal symbol waiting time timer is “0”, the process proceeds to step S520. If the value of the normal symbol waiting time timer is not “0”, this subroutine is terminated.

  In step S520, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the hit flag is “77”. If the winning flag is not “77”, the process proceeds to step S530. If the winning flag is “77”, the process proceeds to step S540. The winning flag is established in step S320.

  In step S530, the main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating the end of the normal symbol game in the normal control state flag. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S540, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the gaming state flag is a value indicating a high probability or a low probability time. If it is determined that the gaming state flag is a value indicating a high probability or a low probability, the process proceeds to step S560. If it is not determined that the gaming state flag is a value indicating a high probability or a low probability, the process proceeds to step S580.

  In step S560, the main CPU 66 performs the probability change / short time normal electric power release setting. For example, the ordinary electric accessory 48 is set to release 1.8 seconds three times. If this process ends, the process moves to step S570.

  In step S <b> 570, the main CPU 66 performs a process of setting 6.7 seconds in the normal electric utility opening time timer of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to step S600.

  In step S580, the main CPU 66 performs the normal normal utility release setting. For example, the normal electric accessory 48 (see FIG. 4) is set to release once for 0.3 seconds. If this process ends, the process moves to step S590.

  In step S590, the main CPU 66 performs a process of setting 0.3 seconds to the normal electric utility opening time timer. If this process ends, the process moves to step S600.

  That is, in step S540 to step S590, when the normal symbol game is won in the game state that is not the probability change state or the time reduction state, the normal electric accessory 48 is released for 0.3 seconds, and in the probability change or the low probability time reduction state. When the normal symbol game is won, the ordinary electric accessory 48 is released three times for 1.8 seconds every 6.7 seconds.

  In step S600, the main CPU 66 sets a value (03) indicating that the normal electric utility is released to the normal control state flag. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Payout process]
The payout process executed in step S23 in FIG. 7 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step 900, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the value of the start opening prize ball counter is greater than 0. If it is determined that the value is greater than 0, the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S910. If it is not determined that the value is greater than 0, the process proceeds to step S920.

  In step S910, the main CPU 66 sets a prize ball command (returns three) to the transmission buffer (main RAM 70) and performs a process of subtracting 1 from the value of the start opening prize ball counter. If this process ends, the process moves to step S960.

  In step S920, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the value of the big prize winning ball counter is greater than 0. If it is determined that the value is greater than 0, the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S930. If it is not determined that the value is greater than 0, the process proceeds to step S940.

  In step S930, the main CPU 66 sets a prize ball command (returns 15) in the transmission buffer (main RAM 70), and performs a process of subtracting 1 from the value of the prize winning prize ball counter. If this process ends, the process moves to step S960.

  In step S940, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the value of the general winning opening prize ball counter is greater than 0. If it is determined that the value is greater than 0, the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S950. If it is not determined that the value is greater than 0, this subroutine is terminated.

  In step S950, the main CPU 66 sets a prize ball command (return 10) in the transmission buffer (main RAM 70) and performs a process of subtracting 1 from the value of the general prize opening prize ball counter. If this process ends, the process moves to step S960.

  In step S960, the main CPU 66 performs a process of transmitting a prize ball command to the payout control circuit 170. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Modification]
As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was described, embodiment of this invention is not restricted to what was mentioned above. For example, in the present embodiment, the difference ball display is such that the counter is updated every time a launch or prize ball is generated. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the counter is separately set for the launch ball and the prize ball. The difference ball may be calculated by providing and calculating based on these.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes the difference ball display 331, the continuous change number display 333, and the average difference ball display 335, but the present invention is not limited to this, and only the difference ball is displayed. You may make it display. Further, other display devices may not be provided.

  Moreover, although the case where it applied to what is called a digital crack was described in this embodiment, this invention is not limited to this, You may apply to a honey monotype / right monotype.

  In the present embodiment, the difference ball number display ON / OFF switch is used to select and display the difference ball display. However, the present invention is not limited to this and may be always displayed. Moreover, you may make it display on other conditions.

  In the present embodiment, the difference ball display is controlled by the main control circuit 60. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be performed by another control board such as the sub control circuit 200.

  In the present embodiment, the counter is updated when the game ball is won. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the counter may be updated when the game ball is actually paid out.

  In this embodiment, the number of game balls used as a game ball is counted by the game ball detection switch 41. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the game ball used for the game is not limited to this. What is necessary is just to be able to detect, and you may make it detect an out ball | bowl and a winning ball | bowl.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the difference ball display 331, the continuous change number display 333, and the average difference display 335 are used to notify the difference ball, the continuous change count, and the average difference ball. However, the notification may be performed by sound, an image, a reel, or the like.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 10 may include difference ball quantity erasure means (for example, a button) for erasing the difference ball quantity displayed on the difference ball display 331 and the like. Depending on the player, if you do not want to play on a gaming machine where the difference amount of other players is displayed, or when you leave the gaming machine, the difference amount, the number of consecutive times and the average difference amount will be displayed. Some do not want to be. By providing the difference quantity erasing means in this way, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can meet the convenience.

  Further, in the present embodiment, a pachinko gaming machine having a probability variation state and a short time state has been used, but the present invention is not limited to this, and is a pachinko gaming machine having either a certain variation state or a short time state. Also good. In this case, the average difference ball quantity may be aggregated at the end of the non-probable big hit or the non-temporary big hit.

  In the gaming machine described above, when a transition is made to a specific gaming state (for example, jackpot) and a predetermined special game transition condition is satisfied, the special gaming state (for example, probable game) is terminated after the specific gaming state (for example, jackpot) ends. State, time-short game state, etc.) and know the total difference between the number of used game balls and the number of prize ball game balls during the period from the specific game state (for example, jackpot) to the normal game state again Therefore, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can be satisfied with the convenience of the game by knowing the difference that has been earned in a so-called consecutive chain.

  According to the present embodiment, it is possible to determine whether or not to notify the difference ball quantity according to the operation of the operation means by the player. For example, if the game result is bad, or conversely, the game result is too good and you do not want to beat the extra ambition around you, you do not want to be notified of the difference quantity Therefore, by making it possible to cope with such a case, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can achieve convenience.

  According to the present embodiment, the number of times of transition to the specific game state (so-called continuous number of times) in the period from the transition from the normal game state to the specific game state (for example, jackpot) until the normal game state is obtained again is known. Therefore, it is possible for the player to concentrate on the game without having to count the consecutive number of times in his / her head, and to provide a gaming machine that can meet the convenience of the game.

  According to this embodiment, the average difference ball quantity per transition to a specific gaming state (for example, big hit) is notified. In this way, it is possible to recognize the average of the difference ball quantity per transition to a specific gaming state, so it can be used as a reference for how to play a game during big hits, during probable change, or during a short period of time (such as determining an appropriate launch position). This makes it possible to provide a gaming machine that can meet the convenience of gaming.

  In the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 32 is adopted. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be used. For example, a cathode ray tube including CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), dot LED, EL (Electronic Luminescent). Further, it may be made of plasma or the like.

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, they are merely illustrative examples and do not particularly limit the present invention. That is, the present invention mainly shifts to a specific gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state when a predetermined gaming state transition condition is satisfied, and when a predetermined special gaming transition condition is satisfied, After the end of the specific gaming state, the special gaming state shifts to a special gaming state that is more likely to be the specific gaming state than the normal gaming state, and when the predetermined normal gaming transition condition is satisfied in the special gaming state. Game control means for controlling the transition to the normal gaming state, launching means for launching a game ball in response to a launch operation by the player, a game area in which the launched game ball can flow down, and the game area And a payout slot for accepting game balls, a payout means for paying out the prize balls, and a predetermined number of game balls as prize balls according to the winning of the game balls to the prize opening by the payout means. Acquired by the player in accordance with the winning of the game ball at the winning opening, the payout control means for performing the control, the used game ball detecting means for detecting the used game ball fired by the launch means and used for the game A prize ball detecting means for detecting a prize ball to be played, and a difference between the number of game balls used and the number of prize balls in a period from the transition from the normal gaming state to the specific gaming state until the normal gaming state is reached again Difference ball quantity specifying means for specifying the quantity based on the detection results of the used game ball detection means and the winning ball detection means, and difference ball quantity notification means for notifying the difference ball quantity specified by the difference ball quantity specifying means Game control means, launch means, game area, winning mouth, payout means, payout control means, used game ball detection means, prize ball detection means, difference ball quantity specification Means and difference quantity notification Specific configuration, such as may be suitably designed or modified.

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

1 is a perspective view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a front view showing an overview of a game board of a pachinko gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a front view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a front view which shows the internal structure of the lower part of the pachinko game machine in 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the main control circuit and subcontrol circuit which are comprised in 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of 1st Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

10 Pachinko machine 14 Game board 15 Game area 25 Start port 26 Launch handle 28 Launch solenoid 32 Liquid crystal display device 33 Normal symbol display 34a, 35b, 34c, 34d Special symbol hold display LED
35 Special symbol display 39 Large winning opening 40 Shutter 41 Launch ball detection switch 42 Return ball detection switch 48 Normal electric accessory 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d Normal symbol hold display LED
54a, 54b Pass gates 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d General winning port 60 Main control circuit 66 Main CPU
68 Main ROM
70 Main RAM
72 Command output port 80 Difference number display ON / OFF switch 104 Count switches 106, 108, 110, 112 General winning opening switch 114, 115 Passing gate switch 116 Starting winning opening switch 118 Starting opening solenoid 120 Large winning opening solenoid 130 Launching device 140 Dispensing device 150 Card unit 160 Launch control circuit 170 Dispensing control circuit 172 Dispensing control CPU
174 ROM for payout control
176 Payout control RAM
331 Difference ball indicator 333 Continuous number of times indicator 335 Average difference ball indicator

Claims (4)

When a predetermined game state transition condition is satisfied, the state shifts to a specific game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state, and when a predetermined special game transition condition is satisfied, after the end of the specific game state, Control that shifts to the special gaming state that is more likely to become the specific gaming state than the normal gaming state, and shifts from the special gaming state to the normal gaming state when a predetermined normal gaming transition condition is satisfied in the special gaming state Game control means for performing,
Launching means for launching a game ball in response to a launch operation by a player;
A game area where the launched game balls can flow down,
A prize opening provided in the game area and capable of receiving a game ball;
A payout means for paying out a prize ball;
A payout control means for performing a control for paying out a predetermined number of game balls as prize balls by the payout means in accordance with winning of the game balls at the winning opening;
A used game ball detecting means for detecting a used game ball fired by the launch means and used in the game;
A prize ball detecting means for detecting a prize ball acquired by a player in accordance with a prize of a game ball in the prize opening;
After the transition from the normal gaming state to the specific gaming state, the difference between the number of used gaming balls and the number of winning balls in the period until the normal gaming state is entered again is the used gaming ball detecting means and the winning ball. A difference quantity specifying means for specifying based on the detection result of the detecting means;
A gaming machine comprising: a difference ball quantity notifying means for notifying a difference ball quantity specified by the difference ball quantity specifying means. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
Operation means that can be operated by the player;
In response to an operation of the operation means, a difference ball quantity notification determining means for determining whether or not to notify the difference ball quantity in the difference ball quantity notification means;
A gaming machine characterized in that the difference ball quantity notifying means performs control for notifying the difference ball quantity on the condition that the difference ball quantity notifying means is determined to notify the difference ball quantity. In the gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2,
A transition number counting means for counting the number of transitions to the specific gaming state in a period from the transition from the normal gaming state to the specific gaming state until the normal gaming state again;
A gaming machine comprising: a transition number notifying means for notifying the number of transitions to the specific gaming state counted by the transition number counting means. The gaming machine according to claim 3,
Based on the difference ball quantity identified by the difference ball quantity identification means and the number of transitions to the specific gaming state counted by the transition number counting means, the average difference per transition to the specific gaming state An average difference ball quantity calculating means for calculating a ball quantity;
A gaming machine comprising: an average difference ball quantity notifying means for notifying an average difference ball quantity calculated by the average difference ball quantity calculating means.

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