JP2009072320A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which enables the execution of diversified performances by selecting different variation modes even under the same game state. <P>SOLUTION: When game balls win a starter prize winning slot 13 in the normal state, a variation pattern is selected from a first variation pattern decision table to get the variable display executed in the normal mode. When the normal jackpot, loss and the variable probability jackpot occur by responding to the winning, the variable display thereafter is executed in the normal mode based on the variation pattern selected from the first variation pattern decision table. On the other hand, when a sudden variable probability jackpot occurs by responding to the winning, the variable display thereafter is executed in a battle mode based on a variation pattern selected from the second variation pattern decision table until the variable probability state by the sudden variable probability jackpot ends. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention includes variable display means for variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them and deriving and displaying a display result, and is advantageous for a player when a specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display means. The present invention relates to a gaming machine that shifts to a specific gaming state.

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

  The specific game state means a state advantageous for a player who is given a predetermined game value. Specifically, the specific game state is, for example, a state in which a special variable winning device is advantageous for a player who is likely to win a ball (a big hit game state), or a state in which a right to be advantageous for a player has occurred. In this state, a predetermined game value such as a state where conditions for paying out premium game media are easily established is given.

  In such a gaming machine, the fact that the display result of the variable display device that displays the symbol as the identification information becomes a combination of specific display modes (specific display result) determined in advance is generally referred to as “big hit”. When a big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state in which a hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. And the number of times of opening the special winning opening is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29.5 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Further, when a predetermined condition (for example, winning in the V zone provided in the big prize opening) is not established at the time when the big prize opening is closed, the big hit gaming state is ended.

  In addition, if a special condition such as a display result of variable display of identification information becomes a special specific display result (special display result) of the specific display results in the variable display device, the jackpot is subsequently obtained. Some are configured to shift to a high-probability state (also referred to as a probable variation state) in which the probability of occurrence is higher than the normal state.

  Therefore, a gaming machine is described that determines a variation mode of variable display of identification information using a different table depending on whether the gaming state is a high probability state or a normal state (for example, patents) Reference 1).

JP 2007-97914 A (paragraph 0222 to paragraph 0262)

  In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, a variation mode of variable display of identification information is selected using the same table in the same gaming state, but a different variation mode is selected even if the gaming state is the same. It is preferable that various effects are executed.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can execute various effects even if the gaming state is the same.

  The gaming machine according to the present invention variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols and decorative symbols) that can identify each of them, and displays and displays a display result (for example, special symbols and decorative symbols for stopped symbols). A display means (for example, a special symbol display 8 and a variable display device 9) is provided, and a specific game state (for example, advantageous for a player when a specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol) is derived and displayed on the variable display means (for example, , A big hit game state), the first specific game state (for example, 15 based on the fact that the first specific display result (for example, probability variation big hit symbol) of the specific display results is derived and displayed. A special game state having a higher probability of a display result being a specific display result than when the normal state is reached after the first specific game state has ended (for example, First gaming state control means (for example, the part that executes the processing of steps S233 to S237, S158 to S161, and S169 in the gaming control microcomputer 560) and the second of the specific display results. Second gaming state control means for making a transition to the first specific gaming state based on the derivation and display of a specific display result (for example, a normal jackpot symbol), and for making a transition to the normal state after the end of the first specific gaming state ( For example, in the game control microcomputer 560, a part for executing the processing of steps S233 to S237 and S166 to S168) and a third specific display result (for example, a sudden probability variation big winning symbol) of the specific display results are derived and displayed. Based on the second specific gaming state that is different from the first specific gaming state (for example, two rounds of bonus Transition to the gaming state) and third gaming state control means for transitioning to the special gaming state after the end of the second specific gaming state (for example, in the gaming control microcomputer 560, steps S233 to S237, S163 to S165, S169). And a variable display pattern determination data from a plurality of variable display pattern determination data (for example, a variation pattern determination table) in which a plurality of types of variable display patterns (for example, a variation pattern) are set. Variable display pattern determination data selection means for selecting data (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S201 to S210 in the game control microcomputer 560) and variable display selected by the variable display pattern determination data selection means One variable table based on pattern determination data Variable display pattern selection means for selecting a display pattern (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, a portion for determining the variation pattern based on the value of the random number for variation pattern determination in step S211), and variable display pattern selection means Variable display execution means for executing variable display of identification information based on the variable display pattern selected by the user (for example, the portion for executing the processing of steps S845 and S855 in the production control microcomputer 100). The pattern determination data selection means is switched to the special gaming state (for example, mode) by the first gaming state control means (for example, Y in step S158) in the normal state (for example, the value of the mode flag is 0). Since the value of the flag is not 2 (0) (step S 60, N), when the value of the mode flag is set to 1 (step S161) and the probability variation flag is set (step S169)), in the special gaming state, the first is determined from the plurality of variable display pattern determination data. The variable display pattern determination data (first variation pattern determination table) is selected (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 determines that the mode flag value is 1 in steps S203, S206, S207, S209, and S210. 1 change pattern determination table is selected) in the normal state (for example, the value of the mode flag is 0) by the third gaming state control means (for example, Y in step S162), for example, when the transition to the special gaming state (for example, Since the value of the mode flag is not 1 (0) (N in step S164), When the value of the command flag is set to 2 (step S165) and the probability variation flag is set (step S169), the second variable display pattern determination data is selected from the plurality of variable display pattern determination data in the special gaming state. (Second variation pattern determination table) is selected (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 determines that the second variation pattern determination table is obtained when the mode flag value is 2 in steps S203, S206, S207, S209, and S210). After selecting the special gaming state by the third gaming state control means (for example, Y in step S162) in the normal state (for example, the value of the mode flag is 0) (for example, the value of the mode flag is Since it is not 1 (0) (N in step S164), the value of the mode flag Is set to 2 (step S165), the probability variation flag is set (after step S169), and the first gaming state control means (for example, Y of step S158) is again transferred to the special gaming state (for example, Since the value of the mode flag is 2 (Y in step S160), the process of setting the value of the mode flag to 1 (step S161) is not executed (that is, the value of the mode flag is 2)) or When the third gaming state control means (for example, Y in step S162) makes a transition to the special gaming state again (for example, the mode flag value is 2 (not 1) (N in step S164)), the mode flag When the process of setting the value of 1 to 1 (step S161) is not executed (that is, when the value of the mode flag is 2) In the special game state, the second variable display pattern determination data is selected from the plurality of variable display pattern determination data (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 selects the step S203, S206, S207, S209, S210). The second variation pattern determination table is selected because the value of the mode flag is 2).

  The variable display pattern determination data selection means is changed to the special game state by the first game state control means (for example, Y in step S158) in the normal state (for example, the value of the mode flag is 0) (for example, Since the mode flag value is not 2 (0) (N in step S160), the mode flag value is set to 1 (step S161), the probability variation flag is set (after step S169), When the game state control means 3 (for example, Y in step S162) makes a transition to the special game state again (for example, because the value of the mode flag is 1 (Y in step S164)), the value of the mode flag becomes 2. When the setting process (step S165) is not executed (that is, when the value of the mode flag is 1)), the special game The first variable display pattern determination data is selected from a plurality of variable display pattern determination data (for example, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the mode flag in steps S203, S206, S207, S209, and S210). (The first variation pattern determination table is selected when the value is 1).

  Preliminary effect determination data (notice determination decision data) in which a plurality of types of advance notification effects (for example, advance notice A, advance notice B, advance notice C, advance notice D) for notifying that a specific display result may be obtained are set Preliminary effect determination data selection means (for example, a part that executes the processing of steps S1822B to S1822D in the effect control microcomputer 100) for selecting one preliminary announcement effect determination data from the table), and selection of preliminary announcement effect determination data Based on the notice effect determination data selected by the means, notice selection means for selecting one aspect of the notice effect (for example, the part for executing the processing of step S1823 in the effect control microcomputer 100), and the notice selection A notice to execute the notice effect during variable display of the identification information based on the aspect of the notice effect selected by the means For example, in the effect control microcomputer 100, the part for executing the processing of steps S845 and S855, and the notice effect determination data selection means is the variable selected from the first variable display pattern determination data. When variable display of the identification information is executed by the variable display executing means based on the display pattern, one first notice effect determination data is selected from a plurality of notice effect determination data (for example, for effect control) When the microcomputer 100 receives the variation pattern commands of the variation patterns # 3 to # 6 and # 10 to 13 set in the first variation pattern determination table, the first notice determination is performed in the processing of steps S1822B and S1822C. The variable display pattern selected from the second variable display pattern determination data. If variable display of the identification information is executed by the variable display executing means based on the screen, one second notice effect determination data is selected from a plurality of notice effect determination data (for example, for effect control) When the microcomputer 100 receives the fluctuation pattern commands of the fluctuation patterns # 17 to # 23 and # 27 to # 33 set in the second fluctuation pattern determination table, the second notice is performed in the processing of steps S1822B and S1822D. (Selection table for determination) may be configured.

  In the variable display pattern selection means, the ratio of selecting the reach variable display pattern when selecting the variable display pattern based on the first variable display pattern determination data, and the variable display pattern based on the second variable display pattern determination data The ratio for selecting the reach variable display pattern is set so as to be different (for example, the reach variable display pattern (variation patterns # 3 to # 6, # 10 to # 13) in the first variation pattern determination table). The selection ratio may be configured so that the reach variable display pattern (the ratio at which the variation patterns # 17 to # 23 and # 27 to # 33) are selected in the second variation pattern determination table is different).

  Based on the variable display pattern selected from the first variable display pattern determination data, the variable display execution unit executes variable display of the identification information, and the variable display pattern selected from the second variable display pattern determination data. Based on this, at least one of the shape of the identification information or the display mode other than the identification information in the display area of the variable display means is different from the case where the variable display of the identification information is executed by the variable display execution means (FIG. 37). And the production example according to variation pattern # 1 to # 14 set in the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 38, and the variation pattern set in the second variation pattern determination table shown in FIGS. (Refer to the example of production according to # 15 to # 34.)

  After the variable display execution condition is satisfied (for example, a game ball wins at the start winning opening 13), the variable display start condition is satisfied (for example, the symbol variation display is not performed and the big hit game is not being played) In the gaming machine in which the identification information is variably displayed on the variable display means based on the above, the counting means (for example, the start winning memory number) that does not satisfy the start condition is counted (for example, the start winning memory number). A holding storage counter formed in the RAM 55, and a portion for executing steps S54 and S314 in the game control microcomputer 560), and the variable display pattern selection means has a predetermined number of established execution conditions counted by the counting means ( For example, if “2”) or more, the short-time variable display performance with a shorter variable display time than the case where the number of established execution conditions is less than the predetermined number is set. (For example, the game control microcomputer 560 refers to the data corresponding to the number of start winnings stored in the tables shown in FIGS. 17 and 18 and performs the processing of steps S203, S206, S207, S209, and S210. The short-time variable display pattern is set to a different variable display time when selected from the first variable display pattern determination data and when selected from the second variable display pattern determination data. (For example, the fluctuation time (8.5 seconds) of the fluctuation pattern # 8 of the normal fluctuation set in the first fluctuation pattern determination table and the fluctuation pattern of the normal fluctuation set in the second fluctuation pattern determination table) The variation time may be different from the variation time of # 25 (8.0 seconds).

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, the first specific game result is shifted to the first specific game state based on the derivation and display of the first specific display result of the specific display results, and after the first specific game state is completed, Based on the first gaming state control means for shifting to a special gaming state with a higher probability that the display result will be the specific display result compared to a certain time, and the second specific display result of the specific display result is derived and displayed. The second specific game state control means for shifting to the first specific gaming state and shifting to the normal state after the completion of the first specific gaming state, and the third specific display result of the specific display results being derived and displayed. There are provided a third game state control means for shifting to the second specific game state different from the first specific game state and shifting to the special game state after the second specific game state is completed, and a plurality of variable display patterns. Variable display pattern determining data selecting means for selecting one variable display pattern determining data from a plurality of variable display pattern determining data, and for determining a variable display pattern selected by the variable display pattern determining data selecting means Variable display pattern selection means for selecting one variable display pattern based on data, and variable display execution means for performing variable display of identification information based on the variable display pattern selected by the variable display pattern selection means When the variable display pattern determination data selection means is shifted to the special game state by the first game state control means in the normal state, the first variable display is made from the plurality of variable display pattern determination data in the special game state. Select pattern determination data, and in the normal state by the third gaming state control means When the game state is shifted to another game state, the second variable display pattern determination data is selected from the plurality of variable display pattern determination data in the special game state, and the special game state is selected by the third game state control means in the normal state. When the game state is changed to the special game state again by the first game state control means after being transferred to the game state, or when the game state is changed to the special game state again by the third game state control means, a plurality of variable values are set in the special game state. Since it is configured to select the second variable display pattern determination data from the display pattern determination data, the game has diversity, and the game interest of the player can be improved. Further, after the transition to the special variable gaming state by the third gaming state control means, the variable display of the identification information based on the variable display pattern determination data selected from the second variable display pattern determination data is continuously executed. As a result, the gaming interest can be further improved.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, the variable display pattern determining data selecting means is shifted to the special gaming state by the third gaming state control means after the first gaming state control means is shifted to the special gaming state in the normal state. In such a case, in the special gaming state, the first variable display pattern determination data is selected from the plurality of variable display pattern determination data, so that the second variable display pattern determination data Based on the selected variable display pattern determination data, the variable display of the identification information is executed after the end of the second specific gaming state that shifts from the normal state, and increases the added value of the second specific gaming state. Can do.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, one piece of notice effect determination data is selected from a plurality of pieces of notice effect determination data in which a plurality of types of notification effects are set to notify that there is a possibility of a specific display result. Preliminary effect determination data selection means, and the preliminary announcement selection means for selecting one aspect of the preliminary announcement effect based on the preliminary announcement effect determination data selected by the preliminary announcement determination data selection means, and the advancement selected by the advancement selection means A notice execution means for executing a notice effect during variable display of the identification information based on the aspect of the effect is provided, and the notice effect determining data selecting means is the variable display pattern selected from the first variable display pattern determining data. When the variable display of the identification information is executed by the variable display execution means based on the first announcement effect determination data, the first announcement effect determination data is selected from the plurality of announcement effect determination data. When the variable display execution means is executing variable display of the identification information based on the variable display pattern selected and selected from the second variable display pattern determination data, one of the plurality of preliminary announcement determination data is selected. Since it is configured to select the data for determining the second notice effect, the notice effect corresponding to the variable display of the identification information can be performed by selecting the aspect of the notice effect according to the selected variable display pattern. .

  According to the fourth aspect of the invention, the variable display pattern selection means selects the reach variable display pattern when selecting the variable display pattern based on the first variable display pattern determination data, and determines the second variable display pattern. Since the ratio for selecting the reach variable display pattern is set to be different when the variable display pattern is selected based on the data, it is possible to improve the player's gaming interest through a variety of effects.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the variable display execution means executes variable display of the identification information based on the variable display pattern selected from the first variable display pattern determination data and the second variable display pattern determination. In the case where variable display of the identification information is executed by the variable display executing means based on the variable display pattern selected from the data, at least the shape of the identification information in the display area of the variable display means or a display mode other than the identification information Since any one of them is configured to be different, the player can clearly recognize which variable display pattern selected from which variable display pattern table is being used to display the identification information. Interest can be improved.

  The invention according to claim 6 is a gaming machine in which after the variable display execution condition is satisfied, the variable display means performs variable display of the identification information based on the fact that the variable display start condition is satisfied. Counting means that counts the number of execution conditions that are not satisfied, and the variable display pattern selection means determines that if the number of execution conditions counted by the counting means is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, It is possible to select a short-time variable display pattern having a shorter variable display time than when the number is less than the predetermined number, and the short-time variable display pattern is selected from the first variable display pattern determination data and the second variable display pattern. Since it is configured to be set to a different variable display time depending on when it is selected from the data for determination, it enhances the player's gaming interest by a variety of effects Door can be.

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

  First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front. In the following embodiments, a pachinko gaming machine will be described as an example. However, the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine, and can be applied to other gaming machines such as a slot machine.

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

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

  Near the center of the game area 7 variably display and display a plurality of types of decorative patterns for presentation that can be identified based on the establishment of a predetermined start condition (for example, the hitting of the hit ball at the start winning opening 13). A variable display device 9 for deriving and displaying the result is arranged. In this embodiment, the variable display device 9 is constituted by a liquid crystal display device (LCD), and is configured such that decorative symbols are displayed and controlled in three display areas (decorative symbol display areas) of left, middle, and right. Yes. Note that winning means that a game ball has entered a predetermined area such as a winning opening. Deriving and displaying the display result means that the symbol is stopped and displayed (except for a temporary stop before so-called re-variation).

  In this embodiment, the symbols “0” to “9” are used as decorative symbols displayed in the three display areas of the variable display device 9. During variable display (fluctuation) of decorative symbols, in principle, decorative symbols “0” to “9” are displayed in numerical order.

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

  The variable display device 9 performs variable display of a decorative symbol as a symbol for decoration (production) during the variable symbol display period of the special symbol by the special symbol indicator 8. The variable display device 9 that performs variable display of decorative symbols is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. The special symbol display 8 that performs variable display of the special symbols is controlled by a game control microcomputer mounted on the game control board.

  At the bottom of the variable display device 9, a special display consisting of four displays for displaying the number of valid winning balls that have entered the start winning opening 13, that is, the number of reserved memories (also called the number of reserved symbols stored or the number of start winning memories). A symbol hold storage indicator 18 is provided. Every time there is an effective start prize, the display color of one display is changed. Each time the variable display on the special symbol display 8 is started, the display color of one display is restored. In this example, since the special symbol display 8 and the special symbol hold memory display 18 are provided separately, the number of hold memories can be displayed even during variable display. In the display area of the variable display device 9, a special symbol reserved storage display area including four display areas for displaying the number of reserved memories may be provided. In this embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of reserved memories is 4, but the upper limit value may be larger. Further, the upper limit value may be changed according to the gaming state.

  Below the variable display device 9, there is provided a start winning opening 13 through which a game ball can be won. A game ball won in the start winning opening 13 is led to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the start opening switch 13a. The start winning opening 13 is provided with a variable winning ball device 15 that performs an opening / closing operation. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, it becomes easy for the game ball to win the start winning opening 13 (easy to start winning), which is advantageous for the player.

  A special variable winning device that is opened by the solenoid 21 in the big hit gaming state is provided below the start winning opening 13. The special variable winning device includes an opening / closing plate 20 and forms a big winning opening. The game ball that has entered the big prize opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  A normal symbol display 10 is provided directly above the variable display device 9. The normal symbol display 10 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, “◯” and “x”) called normal symbols.

  When a game ball wins the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting the left and right lamps (a symbol can be visually recognized when the lamp is lit). For example, if the left lamp is lit when the variable display ends, it is a hit. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. That is, the state of the variable winning ball device 15 changes from a disadvantageous state to a player's advantageous state when the normal symbol is a winning symbol. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol hold memory display having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls passed through the gate 32 (also referred to as a normal symbol hold memory number or a gate pass memory number). A container 41 is provided. Each time there is a game ball passing to the gate 32, the normal symbol hold memory display 41 increments the LED to be turned on by one. Then, every time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one.

  The game board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning holes 29, 30, 33, 39, and winning of game balls to the winning holes 29, 30, 33, 39 is performed by winning hole switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a, respectively. Detected. Each winning opening 29, 30, 33, 39 constitutes a winning area provided in the game board 6 as an area for accepting game balls and allowing winning. The start winning opening 13 and the big winning opening also constitute a winning area that accepts game balls and allows winning. Decorative lamps 25 flashing and displayed during the game are provided around the left and right of the game area 7 of the game board 6, and there is an out port 26 for taking in a hit ball that has not won a prize. In addition, two speakers 27 that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c are provided. Further, a decoration LED is installed around each structure (such as a big prize opening) in the game area 7. The top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the decorative LED are examples of a decorative light emitter provided in the gaming machine.

  Also, below the left speaker 27 is provided a prize ball LED 51 that is lit while paying out the prize ball, and below the right speaker 27 is provided a ball cut LED 52 that is lit when the supply ball is cut. Yes. Further, a prepaid card unit that enables lending of a ball by inserting a prepaid card is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1 (not shown).

  In the gaming machine, a ball hitting device (not shown) that drives a driving motor in response to a player operating the hitting operation handle 5 and uses the rotational force of the driving motor to launch a gaming ball to the game area 7. ) Is provided. A game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 7 through a ball striking rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then descends the game area 7. If the game ball enters the start winning port 13 and is detected by the start port switch 13a, the special symbol indicator is displayed if the variable symbol can be variably displayed (for example, the end of the big hit game or the end of the previous variable display). 8, variable display (variation) of the special symbol is started, and variable display of the decorative symbol is started in the variable display device 9. If the variable symbol special display cannot be started, the reserved memory number for the special symbol storage memory display 18 is increased by one.

  The variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 and the decorative symbol of the variable display device 9 stops when a predetermined time has elapsed. When the stop symbol at the time of stoppage becomes a probable variation symbol (excluding a sudden probability variation symbol described later) or a non-probability variation symbol of the big hit symbol, it shifts to a big hit gaming state (probable big hit or non-probable big hit (also called normal big hit)). . That is, the special variable prize-winning device is opened until a certain time (for example, 29.5 seconds) elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls wins the big prize opening. It should be noted that one round in the big hit gaming state is a period from when the special variable winning device is opened until a predetermined period elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, ten) of hitting balls wins the big winning opening. In this embodiment, when the stop symbol is changed to the jackpot gaming state based on the probability variation symbol (excluding a sudden probability variation symbol described later) or the non-probability variation symbol, the jackpot gaming state is continued for 15 rounds. The

  In addition, when the stop symbol at the time of the stop becomes a special probability variation symbol (hereinafter referred to as a sudden probability variation symbol), a special jackpot gaming state (hereinafter referred to as “suddenly sudden”) that makes the player recognize that the gaming state has suddenly shifted to the certain probability variation state. It is called probable big hit.) In the case of sudden probability big hit, the special variable winning device is opened twice for a short period (for example, 5 seconds). In the sudden probability change big hit, it is one round from when the special variable winning device is opened until it is closed, and the gaming state of the sudden probability change big hit is continued for two rounds. It should be noted that, in the sudden odds big win, the period during which the special variable prize winning device is opened is short, and ten game balls do not win while the special variable prize winning device is open. Therefore, until ten game balls win the big prize opening. Need not be defined as one round. When a sudden odd jackpot suddenly occurs, unlike the big hit of 15 rounds, the effects of each round do not proceed in sequence on the variable display device 9, but the game state suddenly shifts to the probable state. A special performance is performed to show the person. Such a special effect is called a two-round effect.

  In this embodiment, the variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 and the variable display of the decorative symbol on the variable display device 9 are synchronized. Here, the synchronization means that the variable display period (variable display time) is the same. In addition, the display result on the special symbol display 8 (a special symbol stop symbol) corresponds to the display result on the variable display device 9 (decorative symbol stop symbol). The correspondence between the two symbols will be described later.

  Next, the type of gaming state and the transition of gaming state will be described.

  The probability variation state (probability variation state) refers to a gaming state that is advantageous to a player who has a higher probability of making a big hit (that is, the symbol is a big hit symbol) than the normal gaming state and the short-time state.

  The time-short state (time shortening state) is a gaming state in which the variable symbol display time (variation time) of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 and the decorative symbol on the variable display device 9 is shorter than the normal gaming state and the probability variation state. I mean. By shortening the variable display time in this way, the variable display of symbols is frequently executed, and the probability of jackpot per unit time is improved, resulting in an advantageous state for the player. In the short time state, in the normal symbol display 10, the probability that the stop symbol becomes a winning symbol is higher than that in the normal gaming state and the probability variation state, and one of the opening time and the number of times of opening in the variable winning ball device 15 or Both are higher than the normal gaming state and the probability variation state, and become a more advantageous state for the player. A state in which the probability that a stop symbol of a normal symbol becomes a winning symbol is improved and one or both of the opening time and the number of times of opening in the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is increased is referred to as a high base state. This state is called a low base state.

  In this embodiment, the gaming state transitions as follows. The normal gaming state means a non-probable change and non-time-short state. The normal state refers to a state that is an uncertain change state, and includes a normal gaming state and a short time state.

(1) When the normal gaming state and the short-time state, the probability variation symbol (including sudden probability variation symbol) is a big hit, and when the big-hit game ends, the gaming state is shifted from the normal gaming state and the short-time state to the certainty variation state. This increases the probability that the special symbol and the normal symbol stop symbol will be a winning symbol.

(2) In the probability variation state, the probability variation symbol (including sudden probability variation symbol) is a big hit, and when the big hit game ends, the probability variation state is maintained without change. This increases the probability that the special symbol and the normal symbol stop symbol will be a winning symbol.

(3) In the normal gaming state, the probability variation state, and the short-time state, a big hit is made with a non-probability variation pattern. The That is, when the gaming state is the normal gaming state, the transition from the normal gaming state to the short-time state is made a predetermined number of times of variation, and when the gaming state is the short-time state, the short-time state is continued for a predetermined number of times of variation. At this time, the variation time of the special symbol is shortened, and the opening time and the number of times of opening in the variable winning ball apparatus 15 are also increased. Then, when the change of the predetermined number of changes is started, the gaming state is shifted from the short-time state to the normal gaming state.

  Note that the gaming state transition as described above is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to such a configuration.

  Next, the correspondence relationship between the stop symbol of the special symbol and the stop symbol of the decorative symbol (the outlier symbol of both symbols, the probability variation symbol, the non-probability variation symbol, the sudden probability variation symbol, and the small hit symbol symbol) will be described.

  As described above, the special symbols variably displayed on the special symbol display 8 are “0” to “9”. Among these, “0” to “4”, “8”, “9” are outliers, “7” is a probability variable symbol, “6” is a non-probability variable symbol, and “5” is a sudden probability variable symbol. It is.

  Further, as described above, the left, middle and right decorative symbols variably displayed on the variable display device 9 are “0” to “9”, respectively. Here, the out-of-decoration symbol is a symbol (for example, “362” or the like excluding a sudden probability variation symbol described later) in which the left, middle, and right ornament symbols are not aligned in the same symbol. Note that although the left and right decorative symbols are aligned in the same pattern (although it is a reach), the state in which only the decorative symbols in the middle are not aligned is also an outlier.

  The big hit symbol of the decorative symbol is a symbol in a state in which the decorative symbols on the left, middle and right are aligned in the same symbol. Specifically, “000”, “111”, “222”, “333”, “444”, “555”, “666”, “777”, “888”, “999”. In this example, among these, the symbols (“111”, “333”, “555”, “777”, “999”) in a state where they are arranged in an odd number of decorative symbols are probability variation symbols, and are arranged in an even number of decorative symbols. The symbols in the state (“000”, “222”, “444”, “666”, “888”) are non-probable variation symbols.

  In this example, it is assumed that the suddenly probabilistic symbol of the decorative symbol is “454”, in which the decorative symbol on the left and right are aligned in the same symbol (although it is reach), only the decorative symbol in the middle is not aligned. It may be a design in which the middle right decorative symbol is a continuous number. Specifically, “123”, “234”, “345”, “456”, “567”, “678”, “789” may be used. The sudden probability variation symbol is a kind of jackpot symbol, but it is desirable that the sudden probability variation symbol does not easily recognize the occurrence of the jackpot symbol in order to make it appear that it has suddenly shifted to the probability variation state. For this reason, as described above, the suddenly probable symbols are different from the jackpot symbols. The above-mentioned symbol is an example of a suddenly probabilistic symbol. For example, when the left, middle, and right decorative symbols are different odd numbers, such as “135” and “357”, the suddenly probable symbol may be used.

  Next, the reach display mode (reach) will be described. The reach display mode (reach) in this embodiment is a variable display (variable display) for decorative symbols that have not yet stopped when the stopped decorative symbols constitute part of the jackpot symbol. And all or part of the decorative symbols are in a state of being variably displayed synchronously while constituting all or part of the jackpot symbol.

  For example, in the left, right and right display areas of the variable display device 9, the left and right display areas are displayed in a state in which a decorative symbol (for example, “7”) which is a part of the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed. The display area is still in a variable display state, and all or some of the symbols in the display area are synchronously variably displayed while constituting all or part of the jackpot symbol (for example, variable display) The variable display is performed on all of the left, middle, and right display areas in the device 9, and the variable display is always performed in a state where the same symbols are aligned), which is the reach display mode or reach.

  In addition, during the reach, an unusual performance is performed with a lamp or sound. The effect and the reach display mode in the variable display device 9 are called reach effects. Further, in the case of reach, a character (an effect display imitating a person or the like, which is different from a design (decoration design etc.)) or a background display mode (for example, color) of the variable display device 9 is displayed. May be changed.

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

  The game control microcomputer 560 further includes a random number circuit 503 for generating hardware random numbers.

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

  Further, an input driver circuit 58 for supplying detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. Yes. The main board also includes an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 that forms a big winning opening in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560. 31.

  In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 includes a special symbol display 8 that variably displays special symbols, a normal symbol display 10 that variably displays normal symbols, a special symbol hold memory display 18, and a normal symbol hold memory display 41. Perform display control.

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

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

  Further, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the decorative lamp 25 provided on the game board via the lamp driver board 35, and the ceiling frame provided on the frame side. Display control of the lamp 28 a, left frame lamp 28 b, right frame lamp 28 c, prize ball lamp 51, and out-of-ball lamp 52 is performed, and sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled via the audio output board 70.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  After confirming that the power supply stop process has been performed, the CPU 56 performs data check of the backup RAM area (step S8). In this embodiment, a parity check is performed as a data check. Therefore, in step S8, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, an initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on not when the power supply is stopped is executed (steps S10 to S15). .

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

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (step S43). Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process in steps S21 to S35 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal has been output (whether or not an on-state has been turned on) is executed (step S21). The power-off signal is output, for example, when a voltage drop monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a drop in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals of the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, and 39a are input via the input driver circuit 58, and the state determination is performed (switch processing). : Step S22).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes display control processing for performing display control of the special symbol display 8, the normal symbol display 10, the special symbol hold storage display 18, and the normal symbol hold storage display 41 (step S23). For the special symbol display 8 and the normal symbol display 10, control for outputting a drive signal to each display is executed according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S33 and S34.

  Next, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each determination random number such as a big hit type determination random number used for game control is performed (determination random number update process: step S24). The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number update process, display random number update process: steps S25 and S26).

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Determine the special symbol's off symbol (for determining off symbol)
(2) Random 2: Determines the special symbol jackpot symbol (for determining jackpot symbol)
(3) Random 3: Determine the variation pattern of the special symbol (for variation pattern determination) (4) Random 4: Determine whether to generate a hit based on the normal symbol (for determination per ordinary symbol)
(5) Random 5: Random 4 initial value is determined (for determining random 4 initial value)

  In step S24 in the game control process shown in FIG. 5, the game control microcomputer 560 counts up (adds 1) a counter for generating a random number for determination per ordinary symbol of (4). That is, it is a determination random number, and other random numbers are display random numbers or initial value random numbers. In addition, in order to improve a game effect, you may make it use random numbers other than the random number of said (1)-(5). In this embodiment, the big hit determination random number is a random number generated by the hardware (random number circuit 503) built in the game control microcomputer 560. The big hit determination random number is used as the big hit determination random number. Software random numbers generated based on the program may be used.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S27). In the special symbol process, the corresponding symbol is executed in accordance with a special symbol process flag for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special winning award in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Next, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S28). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes a corresponding process according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  In addition, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command or the like related to display control of decorative symbols in the variable display device 9 (decorative symbol command control processing: step S29).

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

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the start port switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the prize port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a (step S31). Specifically, the payout control mounted on the payout control board 37 in response to winning detection based on any of the start opening switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a being turned on. The payout control command (prize ball number signal) indicating the number of prize balls is output to the microcomputer. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

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

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol display control processing for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of the special symbol in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data according to the value of the special symbol process flag ( Step S33). For example, if the variation speed is 1 frame / 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set when the start flag set in the special symbol process is set, the CPU 56, for example, every 0.2 seconds passes. Then, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer is incremented by one. Further, the CPU 56 performs variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in an output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S34). For example, when the start flag for normal symbol variation is set, the CPU 56 switches the display state (“◯” and “×”) for the normal symbol variation rate every 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set. With such a speed, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer (for example, 1 indicating “◯” and 0 indicating “x”) is switched every 0.2 seconds. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a normal signal on the normal symbol display 10 by outputting a drive signal in step S23 in accordance with the display control data set in the output buffer.

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

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes in steps S22 to S34 (excluding step S30) in the timer interrupt process. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  7 and 8 are flowcharts showing an example of a special symbol process (step S27) program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31. FIG. As described above, in the special symbol process, a process for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special winning opening is executed.

  When the game control microcomputer 560 performs the special symbol process, if the start opening switch 13a for detecting that the game ball has won the start winning opening 13 provided in the game board 6 is turned on. That is, if a start winning that causes the game ball to win the start winning opening 13 has occurred (step S311), it is confirmed whether or not the reserved memory number (start winning memory number) has reached the upper limit value (held memory number = 4). (Step S312).

  When the number of reserved memories has not reached the upper limit value (N in step S312), the game control microcomputer 560 uses software random numbers (counter values for generating jackpot type determination random numbers, etc.) and random R ( The big hit determination random number) is extracted, and a process of storing them in the storage area in the reserved storage buffer corresponding to the value of the reserved memory number counter as the extracted random number value is executed (step S313). In step S313, the game control microcomputer 560 extracts random numbers 1 to 2 as software random numbers, and extracts random R by reading the count value of the random number circuit 503 as hardware random numbers. In the reserved storage buffer, the same number of storage areas as the upper limit value of the number of reserved memories is secured. Further, a counter for generating a jackpot symbol determination random number and the like and a reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55. “Formed in RAM” means an area in the RAM.

  Then, the game control microcomputer 560 increments the value of the reserved memory counter indicating the number of reserved memories by 1 (step S314).

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a start prize memory designation command (the start prize memory designation command at this time is a command indicating that the start prize memory number is incremented by +1 due to the occurrence of the start prize). Processing is executed (steps S315 and S316). Specifically, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the address of the start winning memory designation command transmission table corresponding to the number of starting winning memories (that is, the count value of the holding memory counter) in the pointer (step S315). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 executes a command set process (FIG. 23) described later (step S316).

  Thereafter, any one of steps S300 to S307 is performed in accordance with the internal state (specifically, values 0 to 7 of the special symbol process flag).

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): When the microcomputer 560 for game control is in a state where variable symbol special display can be started, the number of numerical data stored in the reserved memory buffer (the number of reserved memories) is confirmed. The number of numerical data stored in the hold storage buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the hold storage counter. If the count value of the holding storage counter is not 0, whether or not to make a big hit (whether or not the display result of the special symbol variable display is a specific display result), and the type of the big win (non-probable big hit or probable change) Big hits, suddenly probable big hits, etc.). In the case of a big hit, the big hit flag is set, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (specifically “1”) according to step S301.

  Variation pattern setting process (step S301): Variation pattern of variable display of special symbol (effect mode during symbol variation: the basic variation time is also specified by the variation pattern as will be described later), variation of special symbol A variation pattern determination random number (one of display random numbers) extracted at the start is selected from a plurality of types of variation patterns determined in advance. Also, based on the number of starting winning memories and the number of gate passing memories at the time (at the start of special symbol variation), the type of variation time (variable display time) of the special symbol (basic variation time, basic variation time 3 Select the variation time reduced by seconds). Then, based on the selected variation pattern and variation type, set the variation time from the start of variable display of the special symbol until it is derived and displayed in the special symbol process timer, and then start the special symbol process timer. Let Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (specifically “2”) according to step S302.

  Special symbol variation processing (step S302): When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting processing elapses (the special symbol process timer set in step S301 times out), the variable symbol display on the special symbol display 8 is displayed. Stop and display the stop symbol. Further, an effect control command (decorative symbol stop designation command: also referred to as symbol confirmation designation command) for designating stop of variable display of the decorative symbols in the variable display device 9 is transmitted to the effect control board 80. The special symbol process timer is started after the special symbol process time is set in the special symbol process timer. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (specifically “3”) according to step S303.

  Special symbol stop process (step S303): When the symbol stop time set in the special symbol changing process has elapsed, it is confirmed whether or not the big hit flag is set. If the jackpot flag is set, the time from when the jackpot symbol is stopped until the jackpot game starts (the jackpot display time) is set in the jackpot control timer, and then the jackpot control timer is started. Let In addition, the effect control board 80 generates an effect control command (a jackpot start command) for causing the effect control microcomputer 100 to execute a signal effect (fanfare effect) indicating that the jackpot game is started after the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed. Send to. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (specifically, “4”) according to step S304. If the big hit flag is not set, the internal state is updated to a value (specifically, “0”) according to step S300.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S304): When the big hit display time has elapsed, control for opening the large winning opening is started. Specifically, the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special variable winning device and open the big winning opening. The number of rounds is counted by a counter. In addition, the execution time (round time) of the special winning opening control process is set in the special winning opening control timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value (specifically “5”) according to step S305. Update.

  Processing for opening a special prize opening (step S305): A process for confirming the closing condition of the special prize opening is performed. When the closing condition of the big prize opening is satisfied, the solenoid 21 is driven to close the special winning prize opening device to close the special winning opening. In addition, the time (interval time) from the end of the round to the start of the next round is set in the big prize opening control timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value (specifically, a value corresponding to step S306). Is updated to “6”).

  Post-winner opening process (step S306): When the interval time has elapsed, it is confirmed whether there is a remaining round. If there are remaining rounds, control to open the big prize opening is started. Specifically, the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special variable winning device and open the big winning opening. The number of rounds is counted by a counter. In addition, the execution time (round time) of the special winning opening control process is set in the special winning opening control timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value (specifically “5”) according to step S305. Update. On the other hand, when all rounds are finished, an effect control command (ending command) for causing the effect control microcomputer 100 to perform an effect (ending effect) for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended is issued. After transmitting to the effect control board 80 and setting the execution time of the big hit end process (big hit end time) in the big prize opening control timer, the internal state is updated to a value (specifically “7”) according to step S307. To do.

  Big hit end process (step S307): A predetermined flag set / reset process for ending the big hit gaming state is performed. Then, the internal state is updated to a value (specifically “0”) according to step S300.

  Next, a method for sending a control command from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100 will be described. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing a signal line of an effect control command transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80. As shown in FIG. 9, in this embodiment, the effect control command is transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 via the relay board 77 by using eight signal lines of the effect control signals CD0 to CD7. Further, between the main board 31 and the effect control board 80, a signal line of the effect control INT signal for transmitting the capture signal (effect control INT signal) is also wired.

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

  As shown in FIG. 10, the 8-bit effect control command data of the effect control command is output in synchronization with the effect control INT signal. The effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 detects that the effect control INT signal has risen, and starts a 1-byte data capturing process through an interrupt process. Therefore, when viewed from the effect control microcomputer 100, the effect control INT signal corresponds to a signal that triggers the capture of effect control command data.

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

  11 and 12 are explanatory diagrams illustrating an example of the contents of the effect control command sent to the effect control board 80. FIG. In this embodiment, the effect control command has a 2-byte configuration. The first byte represents MODE (command classification), and the second byte represents EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always “1”, and the first bit (bit 7) of the EXT data is always “0”. Note that such a command form is an example, and other command forms may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.

  In the example shown in FIG. 10, commands 8000 (H) to 8021 (H) designate a variation pattern of decorative symbols (designated symbols) that are variably displayed on the variable display device 9 in response to variable display of special symbols. This is an effect control command (variation pattern command). The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the variation start.

  In the variation pattern command, commands 8000 (H) to 8021 (H) are effect control commands for designating the variation patterns 1 to 34.

  Commands 8C00 (H) to 8C05 (H) are effect control commands for designating the contents of the stop symbols (display results) of the decorative symbols in the variable display device 9. In this embodiment, commands 8C00 (H) to 8C05 (H) are referred to as display result designation commands.

  Command 8C00 (H) is an effect control command (display result 1 designation command) for designating that the stop symbol (display result) of the special symbol is determined to be the off symbol. Command 8C01 (H) is an effect control command (designation of display result 2) that designates that the stop symbol of the special symbol is determined to be a non-probable variation symbol (that is, that it is determined that a non-probable variation big hit (also referred to as a normal big hit)). Command).

  The command 8C02 (H) is an effect control command (display result 3 designation command) that designates that the stop symbol of the special symbol is determined to be a probability variation symbol (that is, a probability variation big hit). Command 8C03 (H) is an effect control command (display result 4 designation command) for designating that the stop symbol of the special symbol is suddenly determined to be a probable variation symbol (that is, a sudden probability variation big hit).

  The command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (decoration symbol stop designation command, symbol confirmation designation command) for designating stop of variable display (fluctuation) of the decoration symbol on the variable display device 9.

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

  Commands 9500 (H) to 9503 (H) are effect control commands (background designation commands) for designating background display according to the gaming state in the variable display device 9. Command 9500 (H) is an effect control command (normal state background designation command) for designating background display when the variable display device 9 is in the normal gaming state. The command 9501 (H) is an effect control command (high probability state background designation command) for designating background display when the variable display device 9 is in a high probability state (probability variation state). The command 9502 (H) is an effect control command (time-short state background designation command) for designating background display when the variable display device 9 is in the time-short state. The command 9503 (H) is an effect control command (battle mode state background designation command) for designating background display when the variable display device 9 is in the battle mode state. The battle mode is an effect mode that is performed after a sudden probable big hit that has occurred in the normal gaming state.

  The command 9F00 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating display during the customer waiting demonstration.

  In the example shown in FIG. 12, commands A000 (H) to A002 (H) are effect control commands (big hit start designation command) that designate that the big hit game is started. Command A000 (H) is an effect control command (a jackpot start 1 designation command) that designates the start of a jackpot when a normal jackpot (non-probable variation jackpot) is determined. Command A001 (H) is an effect control command (a jackpot start 2 designation command) that designates the start of a jackpot when the probability variation jackpot is determined. Command A002 (H) is an effect control command (a big hit start 3 designation command) that designates the start of sudden probability change big hit.

  The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (specifying command for opening a big prize opening) that designates display during a round in the 15 round jackpot game. The command A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big prize opening) that designates display after the round (display of the interval between rounds) in the 15 round big hit game. Note that the number of rounds displayed in “XX” is set.

  Commands A301 (H) to A303 (H) are effect control commands (hit end designation command) for designating the end of the big hit game. The command A301 (H) is an effect control command (a jackpot end 1 designation command) for designating the end of the normal jackpot game (displaying that the game will shift to the short time state after the jackpot game ends). Command A302 (H) is an effect control command (a jackpot end 2 designation command) that designates the end of a jackpot when the probability variation jackpot is determined. Command A303 (H) is an effect control command (a jackpot end 3 designation command) that designates the end of a sudden probability variation jackpot.

  Command A4XX (H) is an effect control command (specifying command for opening a big prize opening) that designates display during a round in a two-round big hit game (suddenly probable big hit game). Command A5XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big prize opening) that designates display after the round (display of the interval between rounds) in the two round big hit game (suddenly probable big hit game). The number of rounds is set in “XX”.

  The command C0XX (H) is an effect control command (start winning memory designation command) for designating the number of starting winning memories shown by XX.

  Command D0XX (H) is an effect control command (gate passage storage designation command) for designating the number of gate passage memories indicated by XX.

  When the effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the above-described effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31, the contents shown in FIGS. Accordingly, the display state of the variable display device 9 is changed, the display state of the lamp is changed, and the sound number data is output to the sound output board 70. Note that effect control commands other than the effect control commands shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 are also transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80. For example, when displaying the number of winning balls that is a big hit on the variable display device 9, an effect control command for designating the count number of the count switch 23 is also transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80.

  13 and 14 are flowcharts showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal processing, the game control microcomputer 560 is in a state in which the variation of the special symbol can be started (the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300 (specifically “0”)). In other words, in other words, when the special symbol display 8 does not display the variation of the special symbol and is not in the big hit game (Y in step S51), the start winning memory number (holding memory number) is confirmed. (Step S52). Specifically, the count value of the start winning counter is confirmed.

  If the starting winning memory number is not 0 (N in step S52), each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = 1 is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S53). ), The value of the start winning memory number is decreased by 1, and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S54). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the start winning memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in the storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = n−1.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 confirms the current game state (normal game state, probability change state, short time state, production mode, etc.), and sets the address of the background designation command transmission table corresponding to the game state to the pointer. (Step S55). The production mode can be confirmed based on whether or not the mode flag is set. Then, the game control microcomputer 560 executes a command set process (FIG. 23) described later (step S56). If the current gaming state is a normal gaming state, a normal state background designation command is transmitted. If the current gaming state is a certain probability variation state, a certain variation state background designation command is transmitted, and the current gaming state is a short time state. If so, a time-short state background designation command is transmitted. Further, in this embodiment, when the game mode is shifted to the battle mode after the game of sudden probability change big hit, the battle mode state background designation command is transmitted.

  Then, the CPU 56 reads a random R (a jackpot determination random number) from the random number buffer area (step S61), and executes a jackpot determination module (step S62). The big hit determination module compares the predetermined big hit determination value (see FIG. 15) with the big hit determination random number, and if they match, the big hit determination (ordinary big hit, probability variation big hit or sudden probability variation big hit) is determined to be out of place. It is a program that executes a process to be determined.

  FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram of a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The big hit determination table includes a normal big hit determination table (see FIG. 15A) used in a normal state (including a normal gaming state and a short time state) and a probable change big hit determination table (see FIG. 15 (FIG. 15)). B)).

  The numerical values described in the left column of FIGS. 15A and 15B are jackpot determination values. The CPU 56 compares the random R value with the jackpot determination value, and decides to make the normal jackpot, the probability variation jackpot, the sudden probability variation jackpot or out of accordance with the jackpot determination value with which the random R values match. The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and sets the extracted value as a jackpot determination random number value.

  The probable big hit is a big hit that shifts the gaming state after the big hit game to a probable state where there is a high probability of being determined to be a big hit compared to the normal gaming state. The normal big hit is a big hit that shifts the gaming state after the big hit game to a state that is not a probability change state (in this example, a time-short state). Note that the number of rounds is 15 rounds in the case of probable big hits and normal big hits.

  The sudden probability change big hit is a hit in which the number of times of opening of the big prize opening is allowed in the big hit gaming state. When the big hit game is finished, the probability variation state is continued when the gaming state is the probability variation state, and when the game state is the normal state (including the normal gaming state and the short time state), the probability transition state is entered. .

  Note that when the gaming state is the probability variation state (when the probability variation flag is set), the CPU 56 uses the jackpot determination value in the table in which the jackpot determination value is set as shown in FIG. When the gaming state is the normal state (including the normal gaming state and the short time state) (when the probability variation flag is not set), the big hit determination value as shown in FIG. 15A is set. Use the jackpot value in the table. When it is decided to make a normal big hit (step S63), a big hit flag is set (step S71), and the process proceeds to step S75. Note that deciding whether or not to make a big hit (usually big hit or a probable big hit) means deciding whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state, but the special symbol display 8 is designated as a big hit symbol. It also means deciding whether or not to do.

  When it is determined that the probability variation big hit is made, the CPU 56 sets the big hit flag and the probability variation big hit flag (steps S72, S73, S74). Then, the big hit symbol determination random number is read from the random number buffer area (step S75), and the big hit symbol (for example, one of the odd symbols) as the stop symbol is determined based on the big hit symbol determination random number (step S76). . Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S70.

  If it is determined that the sudden probability change big hit is made, the CPU 56 sets the big hit flag and the sudden probability change flag (steps S77, S78A, S78B), and proceeds to step S75.

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

  Further, when the time reduction flag indicating the time reduction state is set (step S66), the value of the time reduction counter indicating the number of times the special symbol can be changed in the time reduction state is decremented by 1 (step S67). When the value of the time reduction counter becomes 0, a time reduction end flag is set in order to shift the gaming state to the non-time reduction state when the variable display ends (steps S68 and S69). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S70). When the probability variation jackpot flag is set and when the probability variation flag is suddenly set, the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state when the jackpot game ends.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, the game control microcomputer 560 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S201). When the big hit flag is set (Y in step S201), the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the sudden probability change flag is set (step S202). If the sudden probability variation flag is set (Y in step S202), a sudden probability variation jackpot will occur, so the variation pattern determination data for sudden probability variation corresponding to the value of the mode flag and the number of start winnings is stored. It is decided to use (step S203).

  17 and 18 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of a variation pattern determination table in which variation pattern determination data used in this embodiment is set. FIG. 17 illustrates a first variation pattern determination table, and FIG. 18 illustrates a second variation pattern determination table. In the first variation pattern determination table, variation pattern determination data corresponding to variable display executed when the effect mode is the normal mode is set, and in the second variation pattern determination table, the effect mode is the battle mode. Data for determining a variation pattern according to variable display executed at a certain time is set. The variation pattern determination data set in the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 17 is selected when the value of the mode flag is set to 0 or 1 in the process of step S166 or step S161 described later. Then, the variation pattern determination data set in the second variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 18 is selected when the value of the mode flag is set to 2 in the process of step S165 described later. Therefore, the value of the mode flag being 0 or 1 means that the effect mode is the normal mode, and the value of the mode flag being 2 is that the effect mode is the battle mode. The mode flag is used for selecting the variation pattern determination data.

  As will be described later, the mode flag is set to 0 when the gaming state is the normal state. In addition, when the gaming state is a probable change state, the mode flag is set to 1 or 2. Therefore, the value of the mode flag being 0 means that the effect mode is the normal mode and the gaming state is the normal state. Further, the value of the mode flag being 1 means that the effect mode is the normal mode and the gaming state is the probability changing state. Further, the value of the mode flag being 2 means that the effect mode is the battle mode and the gaming state is the probability changing state. It is assumed that the value of the mode flag is set to 0 in an initial state such as when the game machine is turned on and power supply is started, or when the clear switch is turned on.

  In the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 17, variation patterns (“00H”, “02H”, “03H”) selected when the start winning memory number is less than or equal to 1 in the normal mode in the normal gaming state. Low variation normal time deviation variation pattern determination data that is set and a plurality of judgment values are assigned to each variation pattern, and is selected when the number of start winning memories is two or more in the normal mode in the normal gaming state. The variation pattern (“07H”, “09H”, “0AH”) is set, and the variation pattern determination data for multiple winning normal time deviation in which a plurality of determination values are assigned to each variation pattern is included.

  Also, the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 17 is set with variation patterns (“01H” to “03H”) that are selected when the start winning memorized number is less than 1 in the normal mode in the short time state. Short variation winning time variation pattern determination data in which a plurality of determination values are assigned to each variation pattern, and variation patterns (“ 08H "," 09H "," 0AH "), and a variation pattern determination data for losing multiple winning times when the multiple winning values are assigned to each variation pattern.

  In the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 17, variation patterns (“04H”, “05H”) selected when the number of stored start winnings is 1 or less and the normal big hit and the probable big hit are set in the normal mode. , Variation pattern determination data for small winning normal / probability variation big hits in which a plurality of judgment values are assigned to each variation pattern, and variation selected when the number of start winning memories is 2 or more in normal mode and normal big winning and probable variation big winnings Pattern ("0BH", "0CH") is set, and data for determining a variation pattern for multiple winning normal / probability variation big hits in which a plurality of determination values are assigned to each variation pattern.

  In addition, the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 17 is used for small winning sudden probability variation in which the variation pattern (“06H”) selected when the number of start winning memories is 1 or less and the sudden probability variation big hit is set in the normal mode. Fluctuation pattern determination data and multi-winning sudden probability change variation pattern determination data set with a variation pattern ("0DH") selected when the number of start winning memories in the normal mode is 2 or more and the sudden probability change big hit Including.

  In the second variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 18, variation patterns (“0EH”, “10H”, “11H”) selected when the start winning memory number is less than 1 in the normal gaming state battle mode are displayed. Set when the variation pattern is determined to be used for each variation pattern and a plurality of determination values are assigned to the variation pattern for determining the deviation from the normal time, and selected when the number of starting winning memories is 2 or more in the normal gaming state battle mode. The variation pattern (“18H”, “1AH”, “1BH”) is set, and the variation pattern determination data for losing multiple winning normal times in which a plurality of determination values are assigned to each variation pattern is included.

  The second variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 18 is a variation pattern (“0FH”, “10H”, “11H”) that is selected when the start winning memorized number is less than 1 in the battle mode in the short time state. Is selected, and the variation pattern determination data for short winning time short time when a plurality of judgment values are assigned to each variation pattern, and when the number of start winning memories in the short time battle mode is 2 or more is selected. The variation pattern (“19H”, “1AH”, “1BH”) is set, and the variation pattern determining data for losing multiple winning times is assigned to each variation pattern.

  In the second variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 18, variation patterns (“12H”, “13H”) that are selected when the number of start winning memories is 1 or less and the big hit is set in the battle mode are set. Fluctuation pattern determination data for small winning normal big hits in which a plurality of judgment values are assigned to the pattern, and fluctuation patterns (“1CH”, “1DH” selected when the number of start winning memorization is 2 or more and normal big hit in the battle mode ”), And a variation pattern determination data for multiple winning normal jackpots in which a plurality of determination values are assigned to each variation pattern.

  Further, the second variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 18 is set with variation patterns (“14H”, “15H”, “16H”) selected when the number of stored start winnings is 1 or less and the probability variation is a big hit in the battle mode. The variation pattern determining data for small winning probability variation big hit in which a plurality of judgment values are assigned to each variation pattern, and the variation pattern (“1EH” selected when the number of start winning memories is 2 or more in battle mode and the probability variation big hit is reached. ”,“ 1FH ”,“ 20H ”), and variation pattern determination data for multiple winning probability variation big hits in which a plurality of determination values are assigned to each variation pattern.

  The second variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 18 is for small winning sudden probability variation in which the variation pattern (“17H”) selected in the battle mode when the start winning memory number is 1 or less and sudden probability variation big hit is set. The variation pattern determination data and the variation pattern determination data for multiple winning sudden probability change in which the variation pattern (“21H”) selected when the start winning memory number is 2 or more and the sudden probability change big hit is set in the battle mode. Including.

  It should be noted that the fluctuation pattern determination table used when the probability is low (non-probability change state) and low base (non-time-short state), and the low probability (non-probability change state) and high base (time-short state). And a variation pattern determination table used at the time may be prepared. In addition, a variation pattern determination table set so that the variation time varies depending on the number of special symbols held (start winning memorization number) may be prepared.

  Further, a variation pattern determination table set so that the ratio of selecting the variation pattern of the reach mode may be prepared in accordance with the number of reserved symbols stored in the special symbol (the number of start winning memories). Specifically, for example, when it is determined to be out of place, if the random value for determining the fluctuation pattern is 0 to 18, the fluctuation pattern of the normal fluctuation is selected, and if it is 19 or 20, the fluctuation pattern of the reach mode is selected. The fluctuation pattern determination table used when the number of stored special symbols (start winning prize storage number) is 0 or 1 and the fluctuation pattern determination random number value is 0 to 10 If the variation pattern is selected and 11 to 20, the variation pattern of the reach mode is set to be selected, and the variation pattern used when the number of reserved symbols stored in the special symbol (the number of start winning memory) is 2 or 3. A determination table may be prepared.

  The game control microcomputer 560 determines that the normal big hit, the probability change big hit, the sudden probability change big hit or the out of the process in the above-described step S62. When the game control microcomputer 560 suddenly decides to make a promising big hit, when the value of the mode flag is 0 and the start winning memory number is 1 or less, the first fluctuation shown in FIG. The first variation pattern shown in FIG. 17 is determined when it is decided to use the variation pattern determination data for sudden winning probability variation in the pattern determination table, and the value of the mode flag is 0 and the start winning memory number is 2 or more. It is decided to use the data for determining the variation pattern for sudden winning change in multiple winning in the decision table. In addition, when the value of the mode flag is 1 or 2 and the number of start winning memories is 1 or less, the variation pattern determining data for small winning sudden probability change in the second variation pattern determining table shown in FIG. 18 is used. When the value of the mode flag is 1 or 2 and the start winning memorized number is 2 or more, the variation pattern determining data for multiple winning sudden probability change in the second variation pattern determining table shown in FIG. 18 is used. To decide. Then, the process proceeds to step S211.

  If the probability change flag is not set suddenly (N in step S202), the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the probability change big hit flag is set (step S204). When the probability variation jackpot flag is set (Y in step S204), a probability variation jackpot will be generated, and therefore the data for determining the variation pattern for probability variation jackpot according to the value of the mode flag and the number of start winning memories is used. That is decided (step S206). Specifically, the game control microcomputer 560, when the value of the mode flag is 0 and the start winning memory number is 1 or less, the small winning normal / probable change in the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. When it is decided to use the big hit variation pattern determination data and the mode flag value is 0 and the start winning memory number is 2 or more, the multiple winning normal / normal in the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. It is decided to use data for determining a variation pattern for probability variation big hit. Further, when the value of the mode flag is 1 or 2 and the start winning memorized number is 1 or less, the small winning probability variation big hit variation pattern determination data in the second variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 18 is used. When the value of the mode flag is 1 or 2 and the number of stored start prizes is 2 or more, the variation pattern determination data for multiple winning probability variation big hit in the second variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 18 is used. To decide. Then, the process proceeds to step S211.

  In step S204, if the probability variation big hit flag is not set (N in step S204), a normal big hit (non-probable big hit) will occur, so depending on the value of the mode flag and the number of start winnings stored. Further, it is determined to use the normal big hit variation pattern determination data (step S207). Specifically, the game control microcomputer 560, when the value of the mode flag is 0 and the start winning memory number is 1 or less, the small winning normal / probable change in the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. When it is decided to use the big hit variation pattern determination data and the mode flag value is 0 and the start winning memory number is 2 or more, the multiple winning normal / normal in the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. It is decided to use data for determining a variation pattern for probability variation big hit. Further, when the value of the mode flag is 1 or 2 and the number of stored start winnings is 1 or less, the small winning normal big hit variation pattern determining data in the second variation pattern determining table shown in FIG. 18 is used. When the value of the mode flag is 1 or 2 and the start winning memorized number is 2 or more, the multi-winning normal big hit variation pattern determining data in the second variation pattern determining table shown in FIG. 18 is used. To decide. Then, the process proceeds to step S211.

  When it is determined in step S201 that the big hit flag is not set (N in step S201), the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the time reduction flag is set (step S208). When the hourly flag is not set (N in step S208), the normal-time variation pattern determining data used in the normal gaming state is used according to the value of the mode flag and the number of start winning memories. Determination is made (step S209). Specifically, when the value of the mode flag is 0 and the number of start winning memories is 1 or less, the game control microcomputer 560 deviates from the normal time of the small winnings in the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 17 when the value of the mode flag is 0 and the number of start winning memories is 2 or more, the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. It is decided to use the fluctuation pattern determination data. Further, when the value of the mode flag is 1 or 2 and the number of stored start winnings is 1 or less, the variation pattern determination data for losing normal winning in the small variation normal time in the second variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 18 is used. When the value of the mode flag is 1 or 2 and the number of stored start winnings is 2 or more, the variation pattern determining data for losing multiple winning normal times in the second variation pattern determining table shown in FIG. Decide to use. Then, the process proceeds to step S211.

  On the other hand, when the hour / hour flag is set (Y in step S208), the fluctuation pattern determination data for changing the hour / hour hour used in the time-short state is used according to the value of the mode flag and the number of start winning memories. (Step S210). Specifically, when the value of the mode flag is 0 and the number of start winning memories is 1 or less, the game control microcomputer 560 deviates from the short winning time in the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 17 is used, and when the value of the mode flag is 0 and the start winning memory number is 2 or more, there is a deviation from the short time of multiple winnings in the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. It is decided to use the fluctuation pattern determination data. In addition, when the value of the mode flag is 1 or 2 and the number of start winning memories is 1 or less, the variation pattern determination data for losing the multiple winning times in the second variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 18 is used. When the value of the mode flag is 1 or 2 and the number of stored start winnings is 2 or more, the variation pattern determining data for losing multiple winning normal times in the second variation pattern determining table shown in FIG. Decide to use. Then, the process proceeds to step S211.

  In step S211, the game control microcomputer 560 extracts the variation pattern determination random number, and determines the variation pattern determined in steps S203, S206, S207, S209, and S210 based on the extracted variation pattern determination random number. The design variation pattern is determined using the business data (step S211). Specifically, the variation pattern corresponding to the determination value that matches the variation pattern determination random value is determined as the variation pattern of the symbol to be variably displayed next. Then, the process proceeds to step S213.

  As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the special symbol change time when the number of reserved symbols of special symbols (starting winning memory number) is 1 or less (0 or 1), and the number of reserved symbols of special symbols. It is different from the variation time of the special symbol when is 2 or more (2, 3, 4). Specifically, in the normal mode in which the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 17 is used, the special symbol when the number of special symbols held (start winning memorization number) is 1 or less (0 or 1). The variation time that is uniformly reduced by 3 seconds from the variation time (basic time) is defined as the variation time (short time) of the special symbol when the number of stored special symbols is 2 or more (2, 3, 4). Further, in the battle mode in which the second variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 18 is used, the variation time of the special symbol when the reserved number of special symbols (start winning memorization number) is 1 or less (0 or 1) ( The variation time that is uniformly reduced by 5 seconds from the basic time) is the variation time (short time) of the special symbol when the number of reserved symbols stored in the special symbol is 2 or more (2, 3, 4). The reason why the time to be shortened is different between the normal mode and the battle mode is that the suitable variation time for performing the effect differs depending on the effect mode.

  In this example, the variation time is uniformly shortened, but the reference for shortening the variation time may be changed according to the gaming state. Specifically, for example, in the normal gaming state, when the number of reserved symbols of special symbols is 2 or 3, the change time is shortened, and in the state of short time, the number of reserved memories of special symbols is 1 to 3. It may be configured to shorten the variation time at a certain time. Also, in this example, the variation time is uniformly changed based on the number of special symbols reserved, but the variation time may be changed according to the variation pattern. Specifically, for example, when a fluctuation pattern of normal fluctuation (a fluctuation pattern without a reach mode) is determined in the process of step S211, the fluctuation time is changed (reduced) based on the number of special symbols reserved. You may be comprised so that it may make.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 stores, in the variation pattern buffer, variation pattern command data corresponding to the variation pattern EXT data determined in step S211 and the variation pattern MODE data determined in step S212 (step S213). . Then, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the variation time of the special symbol specified by the variation pattern command data in the special symbol process timer (step S214). Next, the game control microcomputer 560 stores the address of the variable command transmission table in the decorative symbol command transmission pointer (step S215). In response to this processing being performed, control for transmitting the variation pattern command is executed in the decorative symbol command control processing (step S29 in FIG. 5, FIG. 23). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 executes the variation number monitoring process (step S216).

  In the fluctuation number monitoring process, the game control microcomputer 560 displays the fluctuation number of the special symbol after the big hit game is ended when the shift to the short time state is set after the big hit game is finished (when the short time flag is set). Count with. Then, the game control microcomputer 560 confirms whether or not the count value of the fluctuation count counter has reached a value indicating a predetermined fluctuation count (for example, 100) that can continue the short-time state, and the count value is the predetermined fluctuation count. When the value becomes, the hourly flag is reset. As a result, when the number of fluctuations of the special symbol after the big hit game ends becomes a predetermined number of fluctuations, the time-shifted state is shifted to the normal gaming state.

  Thereafter, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically, “2”) corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S302) (step S217).

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the special symbol changing process (step S302) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol changing process, first, the game control microcomputer 560 decrements the value of the special symbol process timer by 1 (step S221). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the special symbol process timer is up (that is, whether or not the value of the special symbol process timer is 0) (step S222). If the time is not up (N in step S222) ) And the process is terminated. If the special symbol process timer has expired (Y in step S222), the game control microcomputer 560 stops the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 and derives and displays the stop symbol (step S223). . Further, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the address of the decorative symbol stop designation command transmission table in the pointer (step S224), and executes the command setting process (step S225). As a result, control for transmitting a decorative symbol stop designation command is executed.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 sets a symbol stop time for stopping and displaying the special symbol stop symbol in the special symbol process timer, and starts the timer (step S226). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value (specifically “3”) corresponding to the special symbol stop process (step S303) (step S227).

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S303) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop process, the game control microcomputer 560 decrements the value of the special symbol process timer by 1 (step S231). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the special symbol process timer has expired (that is, whether or not the value of the special symbol process timer is 0) (step S232). If the time is not up (N in step S232), the process is terminated as it is.

  If the special symbol process timer has expired (Y in step S232), the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S233). If the big hit flag is set (Y in step S233), the game control microcomputer 560 resets the probability variation flag and the time reduction flag (step S234A), and has time to control the opening / closing of the big prize opening. The time (hit display time) from the time when the big winning symbol is stopped to the time when the big winning symbol is released is set in the big winning port control timer to be measured (step S234B). In the jackpot display time, an effect (fanfare effect) for notifying the player that the jackpot game is started is executed.

  Note that different jackpot display times may be set for the big hit of 15 rounds and the big hit of 2 rounds. In this case, for example, the jackpot display time is 3 seconds for a big hit of 15 rounds, and the jackpot display time is 5 seconds for a big hit of two rounds.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the address of the fanfare command transmission table corresponding to the jackpot type to the pointer (step S235), and executes the command setting process (step S236). As a result, a control for transmitting a fanfare command (a jackpot start designation command) corresponding to the jackpot type is executed. The jackpot type can be confirmed based on whether the probability variation jackpot flag is set or whether the probability variation flag is suddenly set. Specifically, when the probability variation big hit flag is set, a big hit start 2 designation command is transmitted, and when the probability variation big hit flag is suddenly set, a big hit 3 designation command is transmitted, and the probability variation big hit flag and suddenly If the probability variation jackpot flag is not set, a jackpot start 1 designation command is transmitted. After that, the game control microcomputer 560 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value (specifically, “4”) corresponding to the special winning opening opening pre-processing (step S304) (step S237).

  If the big hit flag is not set (N in step S233), the game control microcomputer 560 sets the value of the special symbol process flag to a value (specifically, “0”) corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300). (Step S238).

  When the game state is shifted to the big hit gaming state, the pre-opening process for the big winning opening (step S304) is executed, and the pre-opening process for the big winning opening (step S305) and the post-opening process for the big winning opening (step S306) are performed. The rounds in the big hit game progress by being repeatedly executed. When the final round (15 rounds is a big hit of 15 rounds, 2 rounds is a sudden probability change big hit of 2 rounds), the big hit end process (step S307) is executed and the big hit gaming state is ended.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process. In the jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot end display timer is set (step S150). If the jackpot end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step S154. If the jackpot end display timer is not set, the jackpot flag is reset (step S151), and control for transmitting a jackpot end designation command is performed (step S152). Here, when the probability variation jackpot flag is set, a jackpot end 2 designation command is transmitted, and when the probability variation jackpot flag is set suddenly, a jackpot end 3 designation command is transmitted, and the probability variation jackpot flag and the sudden probability variation When the jackpot flag is not set, a jackpot end 1 designation command is transmitted. Then, a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the jackpot end display is performed on the variable display device 9 (the jackpot end display time) is set in the jackpot end display timer (step S153), and the processing is ended.

  In step S154, 1 is subtracted from the value of the big hit end display timer. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end display time has elapsed (step S155). If not, the process ends. If it has elapsed, it is confirmed whether or not the probability variation big hit flag is set (step S158). If the probability variation jackpot flag is set, the set probability variation jackpot flag is reset (step S159), and it is confirmed whether the value of the mode flag is 2 (step S160). If the value of the mode flag is 2 (Y in step S160), the process proceeds to step S165. When the value of the mode flag is not 2, that is, when the value of the mode flag is 0 or 1 (N in Step S160), the value of the mode flag is set to 1 (Step S161), and the probability variation flag is set (Step S160). S169), the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S170). Note that setting the value of the mode flag to 1 means shifting the effect mode to the normal mode. Also, setting the probability change flag means that the gaming state is shifted to the probability change state.

  When the probability variation big hit flag is not set (N in Step S158), it is confirmed whether or not the probability variation flag is suddenly set (Step S162). If the sudden probability variation flag is set (Y in step S162), the sudden probability variation flag that has been set is reset (step S163), and it is confirmed whether or not the value of the mode flag is 1 (step S164). . When the value of the mode flag is 1 (Y in step S164), the process proceeds to step S161. If the value of the mode flag is not 1, that is, if the value of the mode flag is 0 or 2 (N in step S164), the value of the mode flag is set to 2 (step S165), and the probability variation flag is set ( The process proceeds to step S169) and step S170. Note that setting the value of the mode flag to 2 means that the effect mode is shifted to the battle mode.

  The CPU 56 sets the value of the mode flag to 0 when the probability variation big hit flag and the sudden probability variation flag are not set (N in Step S158, N in Step S162), that is, in the case of a normal big hit (Step S166). ). Then, the time reduction flag is set to shift the gaming state to the time reduction state (step S167), and 100 is set in the time reduction counter (step S168). And CPU56 transfers to the process of step S170. Note that setting the value of the mode flag to 0 means shifting the effect mode to the normal mode.

  FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of transition of the effect mode. As shown in FIG. 22, when the game ball enters the start winning opening 13 and is detected by the start opening switch 13a in the normal state (including the short time state), the special symbol normal process (step S300) described above is performed in step S62. In processing, it is determined to be a normal big hit, off, probable big hit or sudden big hit, and in the normal mode according to the fluctuation pattern selected from the first fluctuation pattern determination table shown in FIG. The variable display of the decorative design is executed by the variable display device 9.

  If it is determined in step S62 in the special symbol normal processing (step S300) described above that the normal big hit is made, the game proceeds to the 15 round big hit gaming state after the decorative symbol fluctuation stops, and the 15 round big hit gaming state is changed. After the completion, the state shifts to the short time state a predetermined number of times (100 times in this example), and after the short time state ends, the state shifts to the normal state.

  Further, when it is determined that the difference is determined in the process of step S62 of the special symbol normal process (step S300) described above, the process shifts to the normal state after the decorative symbol fluctuation is stopped.

  In addition, when it is determined that the probable big hit is determined in step S62 of the special symbol normal process (step S300) described above, the game moves to the big hit game state for 15 rounds after the decorative symbol fluctuation stops, and the 15 round big hit game is played. After completion of the state, the state shifts to the probability change state A. The probability variation state A refers to a probability variation state in which the effect executed on the variable display device 9 is the normal mode.

  Also, if it is determined in step S62 of the special symbol normal processing (step S300) that sudden sudden change is a big hit, the game shifts to a two round big hit gaming state after the decorative symbol change stops, and the two round big hit After the gaming state ends, the state changes to the probability change state B. The probability variation state B refers to a probability variation state in which the effect executed on the variable display device 9 is the battle mode.

  When the game ball enters the start winning opening 13 and is detected by the start opening switch 13a in the probability variation state A, the normal big hit, off, the probability big hit or the like in the processing of step S62 of the special symbol normal processing (step S300) described above. It is determined to be a big hit, and the variable display device 9 is capable of variable display of decorative symbols in the normal mode according to the variation pattern selected from the first variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. Is executed.

  If it is determined in step S62 in the special symbol normal processing (step S300) described above that the normal big hit is made, the game proceeds to the 15 round big hit gaming state after the decorative symbol fluctuation stops, and the 15 round big hit gaming state is changed. After the completion, the state shifts to the short time state a predetermined number of times (100 times in this example), and after the short time state ends, the state shifts to the normal state. That is, when a normal big hit occurs in the probability variation state A, the state shifts to the time reduction state and then shifts to the normal state.

  Further, when it is determined that the deviation is determined in the process of step S62 of the special symbol normal process (step S300) described above, the state shifts to the probability variation state A after the decoration symbol variation is stopped.

  In addition, when it is determined that the probable big hit is determined in step S62 of the special symbol normal process (step S300) described above, the game moves to the big hit game state for 15 rounds after the decorative symbol fluctuation stops, and the 15 round big hit game is played. After completion of the state, the state shifts to the probability change state A.

  Also, if it is determined in step S62 of the special symbol normal processing (step S300) that sudden sudden change is a big hit, the game shifts to a two round big hit gaming state after the decorative symbol change stops, and the two round big hit After the gaming state ends, the state changes to the probability change state A. In other words, even if the probability variation big hit suddenly occurs in the probability variation state A, the probability variation state B is not shifted.

  When the game ball enters the start winning opening 13 and is detected by the start opening switch 13a in the probability variation state B, the normal big hit, off, the probability change big hit or the like in the processing of step S62 of the special symbol normal processing (step S300) described above. It is determined that it is a big hit, and the variable display of the decorative symbol in the normal mode according to the variation pattern selected from the second variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. Is executed.

  If it is determined in step S62 in the special symbol normal processing (step S300) described above that the normal big hit is made, the game proceeds to the 15 round big hit gaming state after the decorative symbol fluctuation stops, and the 15 round big hit gaming state is changed. After the completion, the state shifts to the short time state a predetermined number of times (100 times in this example), and after the short time state ends, the state shifts to the normal state. In other words, when a normal big hit occurs in the probability variation state B, the state shifts to the time reduction state and then shifts to the normal state.

  Further, when it is determined that the deviation is determined in the process of step S62 of the special symbol normal process (step S300) described above, the state shifts to the probability variation state B after the variation of the decorative symbol is stopped.

  In addition, when it is determined that the probable big hit is determined in step S62 of the special symbol normal process (step S300) described above, the game moves to the big hit game state for 15 rounds after the decorative symbol fluctuation stops, and the 15 round big hit game is played. After the end of the state, the state changes to the probability change state B.

  Also, if it is determined in step S62 of the special symbol normal processing (step S300) that sudden sudden change is a big hit, the game shifts to a two round big hit gaming state after the decorative symbol change stops, and the two round big hit After the gaming state ends, the state changes to the probability change state B.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol command control process (step S29). In the decorative symbol command control process, the game control microcomputer 560 loads the decorative symbol command transmission pointer onto the pointer (step S551), and loads the data pointed to by the pointer (step S552). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether it is the transmission timing of the decorative symbol command (variation pattern command, symbol information designation command, start winning memory designation command) (step S553). At this time, if it is the timing for transmitting the variation pattern command, the address of the variation command transmission table is stored in the decoration symbol command transmission pointer in step S215 of the variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process (step S27). The data pointed to by the pointer is the address of the variable command transmission table. Therefore, the game control microcomputer 560 can determine whether or not it is the timing to transmit the variation pattern command based on whether or not the data pointed to by the pointer is the address of the variation command transmission table.

  When it is time to transmit the variation pattern command (Y in Step S553), the game control microcomputer 560 executes command set processing (Step S554). As a result, control for transmitting the variation pattern command is executed. Next, the game control microcomputer 560 stores the pointer in the decorative symbol command transmission pointer (step S555).

  At this time, in step S572 of the command set process (FIG. 24) executed in step S554, the address of the command transmission table is incremented by 1, so that the address pointed to by the pointer is changed from the address of the variable command transmission table to the symbol information designation command. This is the address of the transmission table. Accordingly, in step S555, the address of the symbol information designation command transmission table is stored in the decorative symbol command transmission pointer.

  In the decorative symbol command control processing when the next timer interrupt occurs (after 2 ms), the game control microcomputer 560 loads the decorative symbol command transmission pointer again to the pointer (step S551), and stores the data pointed to by the pointer. It is loaded (step S552), and it is determined whether it is the transmission timing of the decorative symbol command (variation pattern command, symbol information designation command, start winning memory designation command) (step S553). At this time, if it is time to transmit the symbol information designation command, in step S555, the address of the symbol information designation command transmission table is stored in the decorative symbol command transmission pointer, and the data pointed to by the pointer is the address of the symbol information designation command transmission table. It has become. Therefore, the game control microcomputer 560 can determine whether or not it is the timing to transmit the symbol information designation command based on whether or not the data pointed to by the pointer is the address of the symbol information designation command transmission table.

  When it is time to transmit the symbol information designation command (Y in step S553), the game control microcomputer 560 executes a command set process (step S554). As a result, control for transmitting a symbol information designation command is executed. Next, the game control microcomputer 560 stores the pointer in the decorative symbol command transmission pointer (step S555).

  At this time, in step S572 of the command set process (FIG. 24) executed in step S554, the address of the command transmission table is incremented by 1, so that the address pointed to by the pointer starts from the address of the symbol information designation command transmission table. This is the address of the storage designation command transmission table. Accordingly, in step S555, the address of the start winning memory designation command transmission table is stored in the decorative symbol command transmission pointer.

  In the decorative symbol command control processing when the next timer interrupt occurs (after 2 ms), the game control microcomputer 560 loads the decorative symbol command transmission pointer again to the pointer (step S551), and stores the data pointed to by the pointer. It is loaded (step S552), and it is determined whether it is the transmission timing of the decorative symbol command (variation pattern command, symbol information designation command, start winning memory designation command) (step S553). At this time, if it is time to transmit the start winning memory designation command, in step S555, the address of the start winning memory designation command transmission table is stored in the decorative symbol command transmission pointer, and the data pointed to by the pointer is transmitted to the start winning memory designation command. It is the address of the table. Therefore, the game control microcomputer 560 can determine whether it is the timing to transmit the start winning memory designation command based on whether or not the data pointed to by the pointer is the address of the start winning memory designation command transmission table. .

  When it is time to transmit the start winning memory designation command (Y in step S553), the game control microcomputer 560 executes a command set process (step S554). Thereby, control for transmitting the start winning memory designation command is executed. The start prize memory designation command is an effect control command for designating (notifying) the current start prize memory number (holding memory number). The start prize memory number is confirmed in the storage process (step S33), and The number is set as a value designated by the start winning memory designation command. Next, the game control microcomputer 560 stores the pointer in the decorative symbol command transmission pointer (step S555).

  In this case, when the address of the command transmission table is incremented by 1 in step S572 of the command set process (FIG. 24) executed in step S554, the command transmission table for transmitting the decorative symbol command by the address pointed to by the pointer. The address is not shown. Accordingly, in the decorative symbol command control process when the next timer interrupt occurs (after 2 ms), the decorative symbol command transmission pointer is loaded again into the pointer (step S551), and the data pointed to by the pointer is loaded (step S552). Whether or not it is the transmission timing of the decorative symbol command is determined (step S553), but it is determined in step S553 that it is not the transmission timing of the decorative symbol command.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing command set processing. As described above, the command set process is executed in steps S56, S225, S236, and S554. The command set process is a process including a command output process and an INT signal output process.

  In the command set process, the game control microcomputer 560 first loads the command data 1 pointed to by the address in the command transmission table (step S561), and executes (calls) the command transmission process shown in FIG. 25 (step S562). .

  In the command transmission process shown in FIG. 25, the game control microcomputer 560 first outputs a transmission command (effect control command) to the output port 1 (step S581). As a result, the MODE data of the first byte in the production control command having a 2-byte structure is output from the output port 1.

  Then, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the effect control signal INT output bit in the port buffer (step S582), and loads the port 2 buffer (step S583). In this embodiment, for example, “1” is set in the port buffer as an effect control signal INT output bit, and data “0” in the port 2 buffer is loaded. Then, the logical sum of the port 2 buffer and the port buffer is calculated (step S584), and the calculation result is output to the output port 2 (step S585). In this embodiment, when the calculation result is “1”, an on-state (high level) effect control INT signal is output from the output port 2. In response to the output of the on-state effect control INT signal, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes a process of receiving (capturing) a transmission command.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 sets a predetermined value in the wait counter (step S586), and subtracts one by one until the value becomes 0 (steps S587, S588). This process is a process for setting the ON period (high level period) of the effect control INT signal. When the value of the wait counter becomes 0 (Y in step S588), the game control microcomputer 560 loads the port 2 buffer (step S589) and outputs the port 2 buffer to the output port 2 (step S590). As a result, an effect control INT signal in the off state (low level) is output from the output port 2.

  Then, the game control microcomputer 560 sets a predetermined value in the wait counter (step S591), and subtracts one by one until the value becomes 0 (steps S592, S593). This process is a process for setting the off period (low level period) of the effect control INT signal. When the value of the wait counter becomes 0 (Y in step S593), the process returns to the command set process in FIG.

  Returning to the description of FIG. 24, the game control microcomputer 560 adds 1 to the address of the command transmission table (step S563). Then, the address of the command transmission table is saved in the stack or the like (step S564).

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 tests the work area reference designation bit (bit 7) of the command data 2 (step S565), and determines whether or not the value of the work area reference designation bit of the command data 2 is “0”. Is determined (step S566). If it is not 0 (N in step S566), the head address of the command extended data address table is set in the pointer (step S567), and the address is calculated by adding the values of bit 6 to bit 0 of command data 2 to the pointer (Step S568). Then, the data (command extension data) in the area pointed to by the address (pointer) is loaded (step S569).

  In the command extended data address table, EXT data (second byte data in a 2-byte effect control command) that can be sent to the effect control microcomputer 100 is sequentially set. Therefore, if the value of the work area reference designation bit is “1” by the above processing, the EXT data in the command extended data address table corresponding to the contents of the command data 2 is loaded, and the value of the work area reference designation bit is If "0", the contents of the command data 2 are loaded as they are. Even when EXT data is read from the command extension data address table, bit 7 of the data is “0”.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 executes (calls) a command transmission processing routine (step S570). Therefore, the processing shown in FIG. 25 sends EXT data at the same timing as when MODE data is sent. Thereafter, the game control microcomputer 560 restores the address of the command transmission table (step S571), and adds 1 to the address of the command transmission table (step S572). When the address of the command transmission table is incremented by 1, if the address is the address of the command transmission table for transmitting the decorative symbol command, as described above, the decorative symbol command control process performs the decorative symbol command control processing. If the transmission process (command set process) is executed and the address is not the address of the command transmission table for transmitting the decorative symbol command, the decorative symbol command transmission process (command set process) is not executed in the decorative symbol command control process.

  As described above, the production control command having a 2-byte structure is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100. In the effect control microcomputer 100, when the rising of the effect control INT signal as the capture signal is detected, the effect control command capturing process is started. Before the capture process is completed, the game control microcomputer 560 A new signal is not output to the signal line. That is, reliable command reception processing is performed in the production control microcomputer 100. The effect control microcomputer 100 may start the effect control command capturing process at the fall of the effect control INT signal. Also, the polarity of the effect control INT signal may be reversed (it may be at a low level when instructing command capture).

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80. The production control microcomputer 100 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (step S701). .

  Then, the production control microcomputer 100 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring the timer interrupt flag (step S702). When the timer interruption occurs, the production control microcomputer 100 sets a timer interruption flag in the timer interruption process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control microcomputer 100 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control microcomputer 100 first analyzes the received effect control command and executes a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704). Next, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, a process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the variable display device 9 is executed. In addition, a random number update process for updating a counter value of a counter for generating a predetermined random number (for example, a random number for determining a stop symbol) is executed (step S706). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command reception buffer for storing the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 of the main board 31. In this example, a command reception buffer in the form of a ring buffer capable of storing six 2-byte effect control commands is used. Therefore, the command reception buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of reception command buffers 1 to 12. A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. The ring buffer format is not necessarily required.

  The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal, and is stored in a buffer area formed in the RAM. In the command analysis process, it is analyzed which command (see FIGS. 11 and 12) the effect control command stored in the buffer area is.

  28 and 29 are flowcharts showing a specific example of the command analysis processing (step S704). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms the content of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

  In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S611). Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. When the received command is stored in the command receiving buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the received command from the command receiving buffer (step S612). When reading is performed, the value of the read pointer is incremented by 2 (step S613). The reason for +2 is that 2 bytes (1 command) are read at a time.

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

  If the received effect control command is a display result specifying command (step S617), the effect control CPU 101 stores the display result specifying command in a display result specifying command storage area formed in the RAM (step S618). .

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

  If the received effect control command is one of the jackpot start 1 to 3 designation commands (step S623), the effect control CPU 101 sets the jackpot start 1 to 3 designation command reception flag (step S624).

  If the received effect control command is an effect control command (background specifying command: 9500 (H) to 9503 (H)) for specifying the background in the variable display device 9 (Y in step S625), the effect control microcomputer 100 Confirms the gaming state based on the content of the background designation command, and sets the confirmed gaming state in a predetermined area of the RAM (step S626). And the control which displays the background image according to a game state on the variable display apparatus 9 is performed (step S627). Specifically, for example, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives a battle mode state background designation command (9503 (H)), a background image corresponding to the battle mode (see FIGS. 39 to 44 described later). ) Is displayed on the variable display device 9. For example, when the microcomputer 100 for effect control receives, for example, a normal state background designation command (9500 (H)), a background image (see FIG. 37 described later) corresponding to the normal mode is displayed on the variable display device 9. Execute the control to be displayed. For example, when the microcomputer 100 for effect control receives a high-probability state background designation command (9501 (H)), a background image (see FIG. 38 (b ′) described later) corresponding to the probability change state is received. Control to display on the variable display device 9 is executed. For example, when the time control state background designation command (9502 (H)) is received, the effect control microcomputer 100 receives a background image corresponding to the time reduction state (see FIG. 38 (b ″) described later). Control to display on the variable display device 9 is executed.

  If the received presentation control command is a power-on designation command (initialization designation command) (step S631), the presentation control CPU 101 displays an initial screen on the variable display device 9 indicating that the initialization process has been executed. Control is performed (step S632A). The initial screen includes an initial display of predetermined special symbols. Also, an initial notification flag is set (step S632B), and a value corresponding to the initial notification period value is set in the period timer (step S632C). The initial notification period is a period in which initialization notification is performed in response to reception of the initialization designation command. The effect control CPU 101 ends the initialization notification when the initial notification period elapses. The initial notification period is the same as the prohibition period set by the game control microcomputer 560 in step S45. Therefore, the abnormality notification designation command is not received when the initialization notification is performed.

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

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot end 1 designation command (step S641), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot end 1 designation command reception flag (step S642). If the received effect control command is a jackpot end 2 designation command (step S643), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot end 2 designation command reception flag (step S644). If the received effect control command is a jackpot end 3 designation command (step S645), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot end 3 designation command reception flag (step S646).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the advance notice selection process (step S801) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the notice selection process, the effect control CPU 101 determines that the received variation pattern command is a variation pattern (variation pattern # 3 to # 6, # 10 with a reach effect) based on the data stored in the variation pattern command storage area. To # 13, # 17 to # 23, # 27 to # 33) is checked (step S1821). If the received variation pattern command is one of the variation patterns accompanied by the reach effect, a notice selection random number is extracted (step S1822A), and the received variation pattern commands are variation patterns # 3 to # 6, # 10. It is confirmed whether it is any of # 13 (step S1822B). If the received variation pattern command is any one of variation patterns # 3 to # 6 and # 10 to # 13, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not to execute the notification effect and determines the advance notice. The first notice determination table (see FIG. 33A) is selected as the table for use (step S1822C). If the received variation pattern command is not one of variation patterns # 3 to # 6, # 10 to # 13 (that is, the received variation pattern command is any one of variation patterns # 17 to # 23, # 27 to # 33). If so, the effect control CPU 101 selects the second notice determination table (see FIG. 33B) (step S1822D).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not to execute the notice effect based on the notice determination random number and the selected notice determination table (step S1823).

  In this embodiment, whether or not to execute the notice effect is determined and the notice contents are determined using the notice determination table shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 33, the notice determination table is a first notice for determining whether to execute notice A, notice B, or not to produce the notice effect according to the random number value for notice decision. A determination table and a second notification determination table for determining whether to execute the notification C, the notification D, or the notification effect according to the notification determination random value are included. Note that, as shown in FIG. 33A, the first notice determination table has a big hit (normal big hit and probable big hit) rather than the case of the deviation (variation patterns # 3, # 4, # 10, # 11). ) (Variation patterns # 5, # 6, # 12, and # 13), the ratio of the advance notice is set higher. Also, the ratio of big hits (normal big hits and probable big hits) is set higher in the case where the notice B is made than in the case where the notice A is made. Further, as shown in FIG. 33 (B), the second notice determination table has big hits (normal big hits and probable big hits) rather than a case of deviation (variation patterns # 17, # 18, # 27, # 28). ) (Variation patterns # 19 to # 23, # 29 to # 33), the ratio of the advance notice is set higher. In addition, the ratio of the probability variation big hit is set higher when the notice D is performed than when the notice C is performed.

  The presentation modes of the notice A, the notice B, the notice C, and the notice D are different. The notice A and notice B are notice effects that are executed when the received variation pattern commands are the variation patterns # 3 to # 6, # 10 to # 13 (that is, when the effect mode is the normal mode). This is a notice effect according to the effect in the normal mode. Specifically, the notice A and the notice B, for example, display a character string on the variable display device 9 so that the player can expect that a probable big hit has occurred without using a character appearing in the battle mode. Or change the decorative pattern. Further, for example, the notice A and the notice B are different in the time when the notice effect is started and the character string to be displayed.

  Further, the notice C and the notice D are notice effects that are executed when the received change pattern commands are the change patterns # 17 to # 23 and # 27 to # 33 (that is, the effect mode is the battle mode). This is a notice effect according to the effect of the battle mode. Specifically, for example, the notice C and the notice D use a character appearing in the battle mode, or display a character string corresponding to the content of the battle, so that it is expected that the probable big hit has occurred to the player. As shown, the decorative design in the variable display device 9 is changed. Further, for example, the notice C and the notice D have different timings for starting the notice effect, different characters displayed on the variable display device 9 in the notice effect, or different character strings to be displayed. .

  Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation start process (step S802) (step S1828).

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the decorative symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 reads data indicating the variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (step S840). Further, the display result of the decorative symbol (stop symbol) is determined according to the data stored in the display result specifying command storage area (that is, the received display result specifying command) (step S841). In step S841, if the received display result designation command indicates a jackpot symbol (in this example, the second byte of the display result designation command is “1” or “2”), the left, middle and right decorations are aligned. A combination of symbols (big hit symbol) is determined as a stop symbol. When the received display result designation command shows a sudden probability variation big hit symbol (in this example, the second byte of the display result designation command is “3”), the combination of the decorative symbol “454” (sudden probability variation big hit symbol) ) As a stop symbol.

  When determining the jackpot symbol, the effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for determining a stop symbol, and a stop symbol determination table in which data indicating a combination of decorative symbols is associated with a numerical value. Is used to determine the stop symbol of the decorative symbol. That is, the stop symbol is determined by selecting data indicating a combination of decorative symbols corresponding to a numerical value that matches the extracted random number. Then, the display result designation command reception flag is reset (step S842).

  Further, the production control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the variation pattern (step S843). If it is determined in step S1823 in the notice selection process (step S801) that the notice effect is to be given, a process table for executing the decided notice effect is selected. Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S844).

  Then, the production control CPU 101 performs the production device (the variable display device 9 as the production component, the production component) according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1). Control of the various lamps (light emitters) and the speaker 27 as a production component is executed (step S845). For example, in order to display an image corresponding to the variation pattern on the variable display device 9, a command is output to the VDP 109. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27.

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

  Then, a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command is set in the variation time timer (step S846), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation process (step S802). (Step S847).

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing the decorative symbol variation process (step S802) in the effect control process. In the decorative symbol variation process, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S851) and subtracts 1 from the value of the variation time timer (step S852). When the process timer times out (step S853), the process data is switched. That is, the process timer setting value set next in the process table is set in the process timer (step S854). Further, the control state for the effect device is changed based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data set next (step S855).

  If the variation time timer has timed out (step S856), the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation stop process (step S803) (step S858). Even if the variable time timer has not timed out, if the confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (step S857), the process proceeds to step S858. Even if the variation time timer has not timed out, if the symbol confirmation designation command is received, the process shifts to control to stop variation.For example, a variation pattern command indicating a long variation time due to noise between substrates is received. Even in such a case, the variation of the decorative symbol can be terminated when the regular variation time has elapsed (when the variation of the special symbol has ended).

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol variation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process. In the decorative symbol variation stopping process, the effect control microcomputer 100 checks whether or not the confirmation command reception flag is set (step S951). If the confirmed command reception flag is set (Y in step S951), the confirmed command reception flag is reset (step S952), and the stop symbol of the decorative symbol determined and stored in the command analysis process is derived and displayed. Control is performed (step S953).

  In this embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 performs control to stop and display the decorative symbols in response to the reception of the symbol confirmation designation command (decorative symbol stop designation command) from the game control microcomputer 560. However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration, and control for stopping and displaying decorative symbols may be performed based on the time-up of the variable time timer.

  When the stop symbol of the decorative symbol derived and displayed in step S853 is a big hit symbol (non-probable variation symbol, probability variation symbol, sudden probability variation symbol) (Y in step S954), the production control microcomputer 100 starts from the big hit start 1 It is confirmed whether or not any of the 3 designation command reception flags is set (step S955). When any one of the jackpot start 1 to 3 designation command reception flags is set (Y in step S955), the effect control microcomputer 100 determines that the fanfare effect or 2 is based on the contents of the stored jackpot start designation command. One of the round effects is selected (step S956). Then, the effect control microcomputer 100 selects process data corresponding to the selected fanfare effect or two-round effect (step S957). Then, the process timer is started (step S958), and the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) (step S959).

  If the stop symbol of the decoration symbol derived and displayed in step S954 is not a big hit symbol (non-probable variation symbol, probability variation symbol, sudden probability variation symbol), that is, if it is a disjoint symbol (N in step S954), the production control microcomputer 100 resets a predetermined flag (step S960). For example, the symbol information command reception flag is reset. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S961).

  37 and 38 are explanatory diagrams showing examples of display screens displayed on the variable display device 9 in the normal mode. In the example shown in FIGS. 37 and 38, an example of a screen displayed on the variable display device 9 by the effect control microcomputer 100 in accordance with the variation pattern command in the normal mode is shown. In the example shown in FIG. 37, in the normal mode, the change pattern command is issued in a state where the state before the start of change (for example, see the diagram shown in FIG. When received, the display screen of the variable display device 9 displays a state in which the left middle right symbol fluctuates (see, for example, the diagram shown in FIG. 38B). In the probability variation state, an area indicating the probability variation state may be provided on the display screen of the variable display device 9 (background in the example illustrated in FIGS. 38B ′ and 38B ″). (For example, “probably changing” in the example shown in FIG. 38 (b ′).) In the time reduction state, an area indicating the time reduction state may be provided on the display screen of the variable display device 9 (for example, (In the example shown in FIG. 38 (b ″), “short time”). In other words, different background images may be displayed in the normal gaming state, the probability variation state, and the short time state.

  Then, the production control microcomputer 100 receives one of the variation pattern commands indicating the variation pattern of “normal reach” (for example, variation pattern numbers # 3, # 5, # 10, and # 12, see FIG. 17). In such a case, the display screen of the variable display device 9 stops with a combination of left and right symbols, and a character indicating reach is displayed at a position corresponding to the middle symbol (for example, see the diagram shown in FIG. 37C). Then, a state in which the middle symbol fluctuates is displayed (see, for example, the diagram shown in FIG. 37 (d)).

  Then, the display screen of the variable display device 9 displays a state in which the middle symbol is rotated front and back and moved diagonally up and down at a position corresponding to the middle symbol (for example, FIG. 37 (e Refer to the figure shown in).)

  Further, the production control microcomputer 100 indicates one of the variation pattern commands indicating the variation pattern of “super reach” (for example, variation pattern numbers # 4, # 6, # 11, and # 13, see FIG. 17). When the variation pattern command is received, the display screen of the variable display device 9 displays a state in which the middle symbol is moving diagonally up and down to a position corresponding to the middle symbol (for example, FIG. Refer to the figure shown in).) Then, the display screen of the variable display device 9 displays a state in which the middle symbol is rotated front and back and moved diagonally up and down at a position corresponding to the middle symbol (for example, FIG. Refer to the figure shown in).)

  The production control microcomputer 100 increases the number of characters to be displayed at a position corresponding to the middle symbol of the variable display device 9 according to the received variation pattern command (that is, according to the type of reach). The color, size, pattern, shape, etc. of the middle symbol may be changed.

  39 to 44 are explanatory diagrams illustrating examples of display screens displayed on the variable display device 9 in the battle mode. In the examples shown in FIGS. 39 to 44, examples of screens displayed on the variable display device 9 by the effect control microcomputer 100 in accordance with the variation pattern commands in the battle mode are shown. In the example shown in FIG. 39, when a variation pattern command is received in the battle mode, the state in which the left middle right symbol fluctuates on the display screen of the variable display device 9 (see, for example, the diagrams shown in FIGS. 39 (1) to (3)). .) Is displayed, the appearance of the enemy character is displayed (FIG. 39 (1)), the appearance of the own character is displayed (FIG. 39 (2)), and the enemy character and the own character are further displayed. A state of confrontation is displayed (FIG. 39 (3)).

  Then, the effect control microcomputer 100 selects one of the variation pattern commands indicating the variation pattern of “normal variation” or “normal variation during short time” (for example, variation pattern numbers # 15, # 16, # 25, # 26). 18) is received, the display screen of the variable display device 9 displays a stopped state in which the left and right middle symbols are not aligned (FIG. 39 (4D)).

  When the production control microcomputer 100 receives the variation pattern numbers # 19 and # 29 (see FIG. 18), the display screen of the variable display device 9 stops in a combination of left and right symbols, The state where the middle symbol fluctuates is displayed at the position corresponding to the middle symbol, and after the enemy character punching is displayed (FIG. 39 (4A)), the enemy character's punch is displayed hitting his character. (FIG. 40 (5A)). Then, after the appearance that the character is going down is displayed (FIG. 40 (6A), FIG. 42 (7A)), the left and right middle symbols stop at “444”, and a screen is displayed to notify that the game is normally a big hit. (FIG. 42 (8D)).

  Further, when the production control microcomputer 100 receives the variation pattern numbers # 22 and # 32 (see FIG. 18), the display screen of the variable display device 9 stops in a combination of left and right symbols, After the state where the middle symbol fluctuates is displayed at the position corresponding to the middle symbol, and the enemy character punch is displayed (FIG. 39 (4A)), the enemy character's punch is displayed as hit by his character. (FIG. 40 (5A)). Then, after the state that the player character is down is displayed (FIG. 40 (6A), FIG. 42 (7A)), the player character recovers and punches the enemy character (FIG. 42 (8A)). After the left and right middle symbols stop at “444” (FIG. 42 (8B)), the left and right middle symbols start to change again (FIG. 42 (8C)), and the left and right middle symbols are “777”. Is stopped, and a screen for informing that it is a probable big hit is displayed (FIG. 44 (12)).

  When the production control microcomputer 100 receives the variation pattern numbers # 17 and # 27 (see FIG. 18), the display screen of the variable display device 9 stops in a combination of left and right symbols, The state where the middle symbol fluctuates is displayed at the position corresponding to the middle symbol, and after the enemy character punching is displayed (FIG. 39 (4A)), the enemy character avoids punching the enemy character. (FIG. 40 (5B)). Then, after a state in which the enemy character and the player's own character confront each other is displayed (FIG. 40 (6B)), the left and right middle symbols stop at “454”, and the screen notifies that the probability variation state continues. Is displayed (FIG. 42 (10)).

  When the production control microcomputer 100 receives the variation pattern numbers # 20 and # 30 (see FIG. 18), the display screen of the variable display device 9 stops in a combination of left and right symbols, The state where the middle symbol fluctuates is displayed at the position corresponding to the middle symbol, and after the enemy character kicking is displayed (FIG. 39 (4B)), the enemy character kick is displayed hitting his character. (FIG. 40 (5C)). Then, after the appearance that the character is going down is displayed (FIG. 40 (6C), FIG. 42 (7A)), the left and right middle symbols are stopped at “444”, and a screen for notifying that it is usually a big hit is displayed. (FIG. 42 (8D)).

  Further, when the production control microcomputer 100 receives the variation pattern numbers # 23 and # 33 (see FIG. 18), the display screen of the variable display device 9 stops in a combination of left and right symbols, After the state where the middle symbol fluctuates is displayed at the position corresponding to the middle symbol, and the enemy character kicking is displayed (FIG. 39 (4B)), the enemy character punch hits his character in scene 3. Is displayed (FIG. 41 (5C)). Then, after the state that the player character is down is displayed (FIG. 41 (6C), FIG. 42 (7A)), the player character recovers and punches the enemy character (FIG. 42 (8A)). After the left and right middle symbols stop at “444” (FIG. 42 (8B)), the left and right middle symbols start to change again (FIG. 42 (8C)), and the left and right middle symbols are “777”. Is stopped, and a screen for informing that it is a probable big hit is displayed (FIG. 44 (12)).

  When the production control microcomputer 100 receives the variation pattern numbers # 18 and # 28 (see FIG. 18), the display screen of the variable display device 9 stops in a combination of left and right symbols, A state in which the middle symbol fluctuates is displayed at a position corresponding to the middle symbol, and after the enemy character kicking is displayed (FIG. 39 (4B)), the enemy character's kick is avoided. (FIG. 41 (5D)). Then, after a state in which the enemy character and the player's own character confront each other is displayed (FIG. 41 (6D)), the left and right middle symbols stop at “454”, and the screen notifies that the probability variation state continues. Is displayed (FIG. 41 (10)).

  When the production control microcomputer 100 receives the variation pattern numbers # 21 and # 31 (see FIG. 18), the display screen of the variable display device 9 stops in a combination of left and right symbols, A state in which the middle symbol fluctuates is displayed at a position corresponding to the middle symbol, and a state in which the player character punches is displayed (FIG. 39 (4C)), and then a state in which the player's punch hits an enemy character is displayed. (FIG. 43 (5E)). Then, the appearance of the enemy character going down is displayed (FIG. 43 (6E)). After the left and right middle symbols stop at “444” (FIG. 43 (7B)), the left and right middle symbols start to change again (FIG. 43). 43 (11)), the left and right middle symbols stop at “777”, and a screen is displayed to notify that the probability variation is a big hit (FIG. 44 (12)).

  When the production control microcomputer 100 receives the variation pattern numbers # 24 and # 34 (see FIG. 18), the display screen of the variable display device 9 stops in a combination of left and right symbols, The state where the middle symbol fluctuates is displayed at the position corresponding to the middle symbol, and the state where the player's character punches is displayed (FIG. 39 (4C)), and then the state where the player's punch hits the enemy character is displayed. (FIG. 43 (5E)). Then, after the appearance of the enemy character going down is displayed (FIG. 43 (6E)), the enemy character recovers, and the left and right middle symbols stop at “454” (FIG. 43 (7C)). A screen informing that the state continues is displayed (FIG. 43 (10)).

  FIG. 45 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the variable display device 9 in the notice effect. FIG. 45A is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed on the variable display device 9 in the notice effect of the notice A. FIG. 45B is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the variable display device 9 in the notice effect of the notice B. Since the notice A and the notice B are notice effects that are executed in the normal mode, in the example shown in FIGS. 45A and 45B, without using characters or the like appearing in the battle mode, A character string is displayed on the variable display device 9 so that the player can expect that a probable big hit has occurred.

  FIG. 45C is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the variable display device 9 in the notice effect of the notice C. FIG. 45D is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the variable display device 9 in the notice effect of the notice D. Since the notice C and notice D are notice effects that are executed in the normal mode, in the example shown in FIGS. 45C and 45D, the player is expected to expect a probable big hit. Thus, the variable display device 9 displays a character string corresponding to the content of the battle.

  According to the present embodiment, the game mode is configured to shift from the normal mode to the battle mode when a sudden probability change big hit occurs in the normal state (including the normal game state and the short time state). However, it has diversity and can improve the game interest of the player. In addition, after the effect mode has shifted from the normal mode to the battle mode, the battle mode is continued until the normal jackpot is generated, so that the game entertainment can be further improved.

  In addition, since the effect mode is configured to shift from the normal mode to the battle mode when a sudden probability change jackpot occurs, it is possible to increase the added value of the sudden probability change jackpot and improve the game entertainment. Moreover, since it is configured to select different notice effects when the effect mode is the normal mode and when the effect mode is the battle mode, it is possible to execute the notice effect according to the effect mode.

  In the present embodiment, a variation pattern determination table (first variation pattern determination table and second variation pattern determination table) is stored in a ROM (not shown) mounted on the main substrate 31 and mounted on the main substrate 31. The game control microcomputer 560 is configured to select the variation pattern set in the variation pattern determination table, but the variation pattern is determined in a ROM (not shown) mounted on the effect control board 80. Tables (first variation pattern determination table and second variation pattern determination table) are stored, and the effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 selects the change pattern set in the change pattern determination table. It may be configured as follows.

  Then, the production control microcomputer 100 uses the variable display device 9 to present a mission (for example, occurrence of a probable big hit or sudden occurrence of a big odd change), and when the mission is achieved within a predetermined time, the production mode is set. You may be comprised so that it may transfer to battle mode.

  The present invention includes variable display means for variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them and deriving and displaying a display result, and is advantageous for a player when a specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display means. This is applied to a gaming machine that shifts to a specific gaming state.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a relay board | substrate, an effect control board, a lamp driver board | substrate, and an audio | voice output board | substrate. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the main process which the microcomputer for game control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. FIG. 38E illustrates an effect control command signal line. It is a timing diagram showing the relationship between an 8-bit control signal and an INT signal constituting a control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol normal process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a big hit determination table. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the 1st fluctuation pattern determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the 2nd fluctuation pattern determination table. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a jackpot end process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a transition of effect mode. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a decoration symbol command control process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a command set process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a command transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the main process which the microcomputer for production control performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a command reception buffer. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variation pattern command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a notice selection process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the notice determination table. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a decoration design change start process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process during decoration design change. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a decoration design change stop process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the display screen displayed on a variable display apparatus in normal mode. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the display screen displayed on a variable display apparatus in normal mode. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the display screen displayed on a variable display apparatus in battle mode. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the display screen displayed on a variable display apparatus in battle mode. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the display screen displayed on a variable display apparatus in battle mode. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the display screen displayed on a variable display apparatus in battle mode. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the display screen displayed on a variable display apparatus in battle mode. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the display screen displayed on a variable display apparatus in battle mode. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the screen displayed on a variable display apparatus by a notice effect.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Special symbol display 9 Variable display device 10 Normal symbol display 13 Start winning opening 13a Start opening switch 15 Variable winning ball apparatus (normal electric accessory)
20 Special variable winning ball device (big prize opening)
31 Main board 32 Gate 32a Gate switch 80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 560 Game control microcomputer

Claims (6)

A variable display means for variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them and deriving and displaying a display result, and a specific game state that is advantageous to the player when the specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display A gaming machine to be transferred to
Based on the fact that the first specific display result of the specific display results is derived and displayed, the display result is changed to the normal state after the first specific gaming state is ended after the first specific gaming state is ended. A first gaming state control means for shifting to a special gaming state with a high probability of becoming the specific display result;
Based on the second specific display result of the specific display results being derived and displayed, the second game is shifted to the first specific game state, and is shifted to the normal state after the first specific game state is ended. State control means;
Based on the fact that the third specific display result of the specific display results is derived and displayed, a transition is made to a second specific game state different from the first specific game state, and after the second specific game state ends, the special A third gaming state control means for shifting to the gaming state;
Variable display pattern determination data selection means for selecting one variable display pattern determination data from a plurality of variable display pattern determination data in which a plurality of types of variable display patterns are set;
Variable display pattern selection means for selecting one variable display pattern based on the variable display pattern determination data selected by the variable display pattern determination data selection means;
Based on the variable display pattern selected by the variable display pattern selection means, variable display execution means for executing variable display of identification information,
The variable display pattern determination data selection means includes:
When the first gaming state control means shifts to the special gaming state in the normal state, the first variable display pattern determination data is selected from the plurality of variable display pattern determination data in the special gaming state. ,
When the third gaming state control means shifts to the special gaming state in the normal state, the second variable display pattern determination data is selected from the plurality of variable display pattern determination data in the special gaming state. ,
In the normal state, after the transition to the special gaming state by the third gaming state control means, the transition to the special gaming state again by the first gaming state control means or again by the third gaming state control means A game machine, wherein, when the state is shifted to the special game state, the second variable display pattern determination data is selected from the plurality of variable display pattern determination data in the special game state. The variable display pattern determination data selection means is in the special state when the special game state is transferred to the special game state by the first game state control means in the normal state and then the special game state is changed again by the third game state control means. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein, in a gaming state, one first variable display pattern determination data is selected from a plurality of variable display pattern determination data. A data selection unit for determining a notice effect for selecting one notice effect determining data from a plurality of pieces of data for determining a notice effect having a plurality of types of notice effects for notifying that there may be a specific display result; ,
Based on the notice effect determining data selected by the notice effect determining data selecting means, the notice selecting means for selecting one aspect of the notice effect,
Based on the aspect of the notice effect selected by the notice selection means, the notice execution means for executing the notice effect during variable display of identification information,
The notice effect determining data selection means includes:
When variable display of the identification information is executed by the variable display executing means based on the variable display pattern selected from the first variable display pattern determination data, the first of the plurality of notice effect determination data is set. Select the data for determining the notice effect,
When variable display of identification information is executed by the variable display execution means based on the variable display pattern selected from the second variable display pattern determination data, the first of the plurality of notice effect determination data is 2. The game machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein data for determining a notice effect is selected. In the variable display pattern selection means, the ratio of selecting the reach variable display pattern when selecting the variable display pattern based on the first variable display pattern determination data, and the variable display pattern based on the second variable display pattern determination data The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a ratio of selecting the reach variable display pattern when the game is selected is set to be different. Based on the variable display pattern selected from the first variable display pattern determination data, the variable display execution unit executes variable display of the identification information, and the variable display pattern selected from the second variable display pattern determination data. The shape of the identification information in the display area of the variable display means or at least one of the display modes other than the identification information is different from the case where the variable display of the identification information is executed by the variable display execution means based on The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4. A gaming machine in which the variable display means performs variable display of identification information based on the fact that the variable display start condition is satisfied after the variable display execution condition is satisfied,
A counting means for counting the number of execution conditions that are not satisfied,
The variable display pattern selection means is
When the number of established execution conditions counted by the counting means is a predetermined number or more, it is possible to select a short time variable display pattern having a shorter variable display time than when the number of established execution conditions is less than the predetermined number. Yes,
The short-time variable display pattern is:
The variable display time is set differently when selected from the first variable display pattern determination data and when selected from the second variable display pattern determination data. The gaming machine described in Crab.

Images