JP2009172057A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve the game amusement of a game machine capable of executing the game of a probability variable state of a short period continued after the end of a big winning mainly. <P>SOLUTION: In a probability variable game executed only for a prescribed period continuously after the end of a big winning game, in a main display part 62A of a performance symbol display device 62, a big winning ending performance is started at the end of the big winning game, the big winning ending performance is continued as it is in the main display part 62A even after the variable display of special symbols in the probability variable game is started, and the big winning ending performance is ended in the main display part 62A before the end of the probability variable game. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that executes a probability change game for a predetermined period following the end of a big hit game.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a so-called “seven machine” that generates a big hit when a special symbol is a certain combination (for example, “7, 7, 7”, “3, 3, 3”, etc.) is known. And in this gaming machine, if the special symbol is a combination of specific symbols (for example, “7, 7, 7”, etc.), the probability of winning a lottery after the big jackpot is highly probable until the next big jackpot occurrence. Many are fluctuating.

By the way, in this type of gaming machine, since the big hit is promised until the next big hit occurs after the probability change state, the player does not feel a sense of tension, and the interest and game There is a problem of lack of sex. Therefore, a gaming machine is known in which the number of times of variation of the special symbol in the probability variation state is reduced to a short number of times (for example, 4 times) (see Patent Document 1 below).
JP 2003-117118 A

  However, in a game machine (so-called ST machine) in which the number of changes of the special symbol in the probability variation state is reduced to a short number of times, the probability variation state after the big hit game is completed in a short time because the number of variations of the special symbol is small. To do. In addition, during the probability variation state, the special symbol variation time shortening function also operates, so that there is a problem that the variation effect of the symbol is particularly likely to be monotonous.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to enhance the interest of a gaming machine that executes a game in a short-term probability variation state (probability variation game) after the end of the jackpot.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, a lottery means for performing a lottery for determining whether or not to start a big hit game, and a symbol display for performing a variable display of the identification symbol indicating the result of the lottery every time the lottery performs the lottery. Device, symbol display control means for performing display control of the identification symbol, effect display device for performing jackpot end effect display indicating the end of the jackpot game, and effect display control means for performing display control of the jackpot end effect display And a game machine that executes a probability change game in which the probability of winning the lottery is higher than usual until the lottery means performs the lottery a predetermined number of times after the end of the jackpot game. The effect display control means starts the jackpot end effect display on the effect display device at the end of the jackpot game, and the symbol display control means in the probability change game on the symbol display device. After starting the variation display of the identification symbol, the jackpot end effect display is continued for the end effect execution time set within the time range from the end of the jackpot game to the end of the probability change game, When the end effect execution time has elapsed, the jackpot end effect display is ended.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, the probability variation game is executed for a predetermined period following the end of the big hit game. At this time, the effect display control means starts the jackpot end effect display on the effect display device at the end of the jackpot game, and after the symbol display control means starts the variation display of the identification symbol in the probability variation game on the symbol display device. The jackpot end effect display is continued for the end effect execution time set within the time range from the end of the jackpot game to the end of the probability change game, and when the end effect execution time has elapsed, Is terminated.

  In other words, when the jackpot game is ended and subsequently the probability variation game is started, the jackpot end effect display indicating the end of the jackpot game is executed simultaneously with the display of the variation of the identification symbol in the probability variation game. This jackpot end effect display is continued until the end effect execution time set within the time range from the end of the jackpot game to the time when the probability variation game ends.

  For this reason, when the probability variation game ends (when the predetermined number of identification symbol variation display ends) and the jackpot end effect display ends (end effect execution time), the jackpot end effect is reached. While the display is being performed, a period in which the jackpot game is highly likely to start (probability change game), and after the jackpot end effect display ends, the game shifts to a normal game. And while the jackpot end effect display is being performed (probably changing), if the jackpot game is won and the jackpot game is started, the effect display is performed from the end of the previous jackpot game until the start of this jackpot game. The jackpot end effect display has been continuously performed on the device. Thus, the player can be given an impression that the next big hit game has been started immediately after the previous big hit game has ended, and the game interest in the short-term probability change game can be enhanced.

  In addition, when the jackpot end effect display ends (the end effect execution time has elapsed) before the probability variation game ends (the predetermined number of identification symbol variation display ends), the jackpot end effect display is displayed. While the game is in progress, it will be a period when the jackpot game is likely to start (probability game), and even after the jackpot end effect display ends, the probability game will continue. . As a result, the probability variation game can be continuously performed in practice while giving the player the impression that the probability variation game has ended by the end of the big hit end effect display. And if you win a jackpot in the promiscuous game after the jackpot end effect display ends, the player will recognize that the promising game has ended without winning the jackpot Can give joy. As a result, “End of jackpot end effect display” does not immediately mean “End of probability change game”, so it is possible for the player that there is a possibility that even after the jackpot end effect display ends, there is a possibility of winning the jackpot. By recognizing it, the interest of the game can be further enhanced.

  In addition, “End of jackpot end effect display” is changed to “Game” by having both the playability of “End of jackpot end effect display” immediately becomes “End of probability change game” and the case of not being so. It can be prevented from being used as a determination material for determining “when to stop”, and the player can be attracted to the game even after the end of the jackpot end effect display.

  Note that “probability game” means a game in which the probability of winning a big hit is higher than the probability of a normal game.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the first aspect, the effect display control means includes end effect execution time determining means for determining the end effect execution time, and the end effect execution time determining means. Is the execution time of the first effect execution time that is the time from the end of the jackpot game to the time when the first variation display of the identification symbol in the probability variation game is started, and the predetermined number of variation display of the identification symbol The end effect execution time is determined by the total time of the second effect execution time, which is the time required for.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, the time from the end of the big hit game to the time when the first variation display of the identification symbol in the probability variation game is started by the end effect execution time determination means of the effect display control means. An end effect execution time is determined by a total time of a certain first effect execution time and a second effect execution time that is a time required to execute a predetermined number of identification symbol fluctuation displays. Thus, the end effect execution time can be easily calculated by configuring the end effect execution time with two times.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the second aspect, the effect display control means stores a plurality of the second effect execution times that differ depending on the number of variable display times of the identification symbol in the probability variation game. A second effect execution time storage means, wherein the end effect execution time determination means is a sum of the first effect execution time and the second effect execution time selected from the second effect execution time storage means. The end production execution time is determined by time.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, the end effect execution time determining means of the effect display control means determines the first effect execution time and the second effect execution time selected from the second effect execution time storage means, The end production execution time is determined by the total time. As described above, the end effect execution time is composed of two times, and the second effect execution time varies depending on the selected second effect execution time, so that the special effect execution time can be varied in length. it can. As a result, the length of the end effect execution time becomes unpredictable to the player, so that the player can have an expectation for the game after the end of the jackpot end effect display, and the game entertainment can be further enhanced.

  Next, a gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the present embodiment, a configuration in which the present invention is applied to a pachinko machine that is an example of a ball game machine will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the front part of the pachinko machine (game machine) 10 according to the first embodiment mainly includes an outer frame 12, an inner frame 14, a front frame 16, an upper plate part 18, and a lower part. A dish portion 20, a locking device 22, a firing handle 24, and the like are provided.

  The outer frame 12 is obtained by assembling and fixing a wooden plate-like body into a substantially rectangular frame shape. The inner frame 14 is entirely made of plastic and is pivotally supported so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 12. A locking device 22 is provided slightly below the center of the right end of the inner frame 14.

  The front frame 16 is a specific example of the front door of the present invention, occupies about 2/3 of the entire front portion of the pachinko machine 10, and is pivotally supported at the left end of the inner frame 14 so that it can be opened and closed. Has been. The front frame 16 is entirely made of plastic, and corresponds to the shape of the game area 28 (see FIG. 2) formed in the game board 26 so that the game board 26 (see FIG. 2) can be seen from the front. It has an opening 30 formed in a substantially circular shape. A glass plate 32 is attached to the back surface of the front frame 16 by a glass frame (not shown). Then, based on the player, the game area 28 formed on the game board 26 is positioned behind the glass plate 32.

  An upper plate 18 is provided below the front frame 16. The upper plate portion 18 is provided with a production button 40 and a ball lending operation portion 155.

  A lower dish 20 is provided below the upper dish 18. A launching handle 24 for launching a game ball is provided on the lower right side of the lower plate part 20. The firing handle 24 is provided with a firing lever 44 and a firing stop button 46, respectively.

  Sub-speakers 48 for outputting predetermined sound effects are respectively provided on the lower left and right sides of the lower plate part 20.

  The inner frame 14 has an opening (not shown) that matches the shape of the game area 28. A game board 26 is attached to the inner surface of the inner frame 14. Thereby, the player can visually recognize the game area 28 of the game board 26 through the opening of the inner frame 14 and the opening 30 of the front frame 16.

  A ball lending device 154 is provided on the left side of the front surface of the pachinko machine 10. In this embodiment, a CR unit is applied as the ball lending device 154. The ball lending device 154 is formed with a card insertion slot 157 for inserting a prepaid card. In addition, the structure which provided the cash unit as the ball lending apparatus 154 may be sufficient. In this cash unit, instead of the card insertion slot 157, a cash insertion slot (not shown) for inserting cash is formed.

  The ball lending operation unit 155 is provided with a ball lending switch 156 for requesting ball lending and a return switch 158 for requesting the return of the prepaid card inserted into the card insertion slot 157, respectively.

  For example, when a prepaid card is inserted into the card insertion slot 157 of the ball lending device 154, the stored information of the prepaid card is read by a card reader / writer inside the ball lending device 154. When the remaining frequency of the prepaid card is “0 (zero)”, the prepaid card is automatically returned from the card insertion slot 157. On the other hand, when the remaining frequency of the prepaid card is not “0 (zero)”, when the ball lending switch 156 is pressed, the remaining frequency of the prepaid card is subtracted by the card reader / writer and the stored information of the prepaid card is rewritten. The number corresponding to the consumption tax is subtracted from the number corresponding to the subtracted frequency (lending amount), and the game ball (lending ball) is guided from the payout device 161 to the upper plate part 18. At this time, for example, when the remaining frequency of the prepaid card is subtracted to become “0 (zero)”, the prepaid card is automatically returned from the card insertion slot 157.

  In the configuration using a cash unit as the ball lending device 154, cash is counted by a cash counter inside the ball lending device when cash is inserted into the cash slot of the ball lending device. When the ball lending switch is pressed after the input amount reaches the predetermined amount, the input amount is reduced by the cash counter, and the number corresponding to the reduced amount (lending amount) corresponds to the consumption tax. The number of balls is drawn and the game balls (rented balls) are guided from the payout device 161 to the upper plate 18.

  Next, the surface structure of the game board 26 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the game board 26 is held by the inner frame 14, and the back side of the game board 26 is covered by the back mechanism board 200. In the game board 26, a substantially circular game area 28 is formed by an outer rail 50 and an inner rail 52 provided on the surface of the game board 26. Inside the game area 28, a central device 54, a start port 56B, a warp entrance 58, and a number of obstacle nails 60 are disposed.

  The central device 54 is disposed substantially at the center of the game area 28 and includes an effect symbol display device 62, a center accessory 64, and a lamp device 66.

  The effect symbol display device 62 is display-controlled based on control signals from the main control board 102 (design display control means, see FIG. 3) and the sub-control board 106 (effect display control means, see FIG. 3). It has a rectangular main display section 62A. The main display portion 62A is provided over almost the entire display area of the effect symbol display device 62, and a special symbol effect symbol is displayed on the main display portion 62A. There are various special symbols that are displayed in a variable manner on the main display section 62A as the game progresses. For example, the symbols vary depending on the special symbol displayed on the 7-segment display 70 described later. A jackpot that realizes a jackpot ending effect display that is displayed during the first probability display symbol (first pseudo special symbol) that is displayed or a probability varying game that is executed for a predetermined period after the jackpot game ends after the jackpot game ends. There is an ending production design. Here, the jackpot ending effect design is an effect design that is displayed to notify the player of the end of the jackpot game, and characters, figures, symbols, still images, moving images, indicating the end of the jackpot game, Alternatively, a jackpot ending effect symbol is configured by a combination thereof.

  On the main display portion 62A of the effect symbol display device 62, one or more first effect symbols (first pseudo special symbols) are displayed while changing one after another in a predetermined direction, and then the first effect symbol that is stopped and displayed. A display area is formed. That is, the left effect symbol display area for displaying the left effect symbol, the center effect symbol display area for displaying the center effect symbol, and the right effect symbol display area for displaying the right effect symbol are arranged in a substantially horizontal row. They are formed side by side (not shown). In each effect symbol display area, a symbol variation direction is set in a direction (vertical direction) substantially orthogonal to the arrangement direction of these display areas, and a plurality of effect symbols are sequentially displayed in that direction. In particular, in the present embodiment, the main display unit 62A displays a jackpot ending effect design that suggests the end of the jackpot game over the probability variation game that is executed continuously for a predetermined period after the jackpot ends. Is displayed.

  Further, the effect symbol display device 62 has a substantially rectangular sub-display portion 62B. The sub display unit 62B is provided small in the lower left of the display area of the effect symbol display device 62, and the first effect symbol (first pseudo special symbol) displayed on the main display unit 62A is displayed on the sub display unit 62B. The second effect symbol (second pseudo special symbol) of the special symbol having a smaller symbol size is variably displayed. In the present specification, in order to distinguish the special symbol effect symbol variably displayed on the sub display portion 62B from the first effect symbol and the jackpot ending effect symbol displayed on the main display portion 62A, the second effect of the special symbol. It is defined as a symbol (second pseudo special symbol). Also, the second effect symbol (second pseudo special symbol) in the present embodiment is different from the first effect symbol (first pseudo special symbol), and a plurality of types of symbols and figures (symbols and figures having different colors and shapes). ).

  Thus, in the present embodiment, the small sub-display unit 62B is provided at the lower left of the display area of the effect symbol display device 62, and the large main display portion 62A is provided at the center of the display area of the effect symbol display device 62. For the player, it is difficult to visually recognize the second effect symbol displayed on the sub display unit 62B, and the first effect symbol and the jackpot ending effect symbol displayed on the main display unit 62A are easily viewed. For this reason, the player usually plays the game while visually recognizing the main display portion 62A, and based on the display content of the main display portion 62A, the game progress status (the result of the big hit lottery, the current game state, etc.) is displayed. Judgment will be made.

  Here, the sub display unit 62B is provided to ensure that the effect symbol display device 62 has a function of indicating the result of the big hit lottery, and is displayed on the main display unit 62A during the probability change game after the big hit game ends. Even when the big hit ending effect display is being executed, the sub display portion 62B reliably shows the result of the big hit lottery during the probability variation game.

  In the present embodiment, the effect symbol display device 62 is provided with a small sub display portion 62B and a large main display portion 62A. However, the sub display portion 62B is not necessarily required, and only the main display portion 62A may be provided. Good.

  The effect symbol display device 62 causes the effect symbols displayed in the display area of the display surface to change and stop display when the game ball enters the start opening 56B. Then, for example, when the first effect symbol is “7, 7, 7” with the same three-digit symbol and stopped and displayed (determined display), the big winning opening 86 of the big winning device 84 arranged in the variable winning device 80. Is released. In the pachinko machine 10 of the present embodiment, when a game ball enters the start opening 56B, each effect symbol (first effect symbol and second effect symbol) is changed, and the first effect symbol is the same three-digit symbol (big hit symbol). ) To give a specific value of “big hit”. With the occurrence of this “big hit”, a big hit game is played. In response to the fact that the stop display mode (big hit symbol or off symbol) of the first effect symbol is set in advance, the stop display mode (big hit symbol or off symbol) is preset in the second effect symbol as well. For example, “red square” is set as “big hit symbol”, and “white square” is set as “off symbol”.

  Here, in the pachinko machine 10 of the present embodiment, for example, two types of big hits are set in advance. Specifically, there is a probable big hit that is established when three digits of the same odd-numbered first production symbol such as “7, 7, 7” are arranged. In addition, there is a normal jackpot that is established when three first digits of the same even number such as “8, 8, 8” are aligned.

  The probable big hit and the normal big hit are big hits having a relatively large number of rounds (for example, 15 rounds) and the opening time of the big winning opening 86 being about 26 seconds. For this reason, the possibility of paying out prize balls is extremely high, and the number of prize balls is relatively large. In each big hit, a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls enter the big winning opening 86, or a predetermined time (for example, 10) even if a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the game balls do not enter. For example, when 26 seconds) elapses, the big winning opening 86 is closed and one round is completed.

  The probability variation state is a state in which the probability of shifting to a big hit (meaning two kinds of big hits, a probable big hit and a normal big hit) becomes a predetermined high probability. In addition, the open time extension state is started together with the start of the probability variation state. This extended open time state is a state in which the open time of the start port 56B is extended more than usual. For example, the normal opening time is about 0.1 seconds, while in the extended opening time state, it is extended to about 4 seconds. The start port 56B is opened by winning a normal symbol lottery, and functions as a normal electric accessory.

  After the probable big hit, the probability of transitioning to the big hit becomes a probability variation state (probability variation state) of a special symbol, which has a predetermined high probability compared to the normal gaming state. Then, until the next big hit occurs or until the special symbol change display for a specified number of times (for example, 4 times) for a short period, the change time of the special symbol and the normal symbol is shortened, And the opening extension function of the start port 56B operates. Here, in this embodiment, on the main display part 62A in the probability variation game, the big hit ending effect symbol suggesting the ending of the big hit game is displayed for a predetermined time instead of the variation display of the first effect symbol.

  In this embodiment, the probability variation state (probability variation game) is set to a period in which the probability variation game execution period is relatively short. That is, the execution period of the probability variation game is determined by the number of times the special symbol is changed and displayed, and specifically, the period until the special symbol is changed four times is determined as the maximum. It should be noted that the number of times of display of the special symbol that determines the execution period of the probability variation game is not limited to four times, for example, five times, seven times, ten times, etc. However, it is preferable to set the number of times that the execution time of the big hit ending effect display is not unnatural (7 times or less, more preferably 5 times or less).

  In addition, after the probability variation state ends, the probability of shifting to the big hit becomes a predetermined low probability state that is the same as the normal gaming state, and the variation time of the special symbol and the normal symbol for a specified number of times (for example, 46 times) When the opening extension function of the start port 56B (ordinary electric accessory) is activated, the short game state (short time) is established.

  After the normal jackpot, the probability of transitioning to the big jackpot becomes a predetermined low probability state that is the same as the normal gaming state, and the variation time of the special symbol and the normal symbol is reduced by a specified number of times (for example, 100 times), When the opening extension function of the start port 56B is activated, the short game state is set.

  Furthermore, the reach state is a state in which two effect symbols of the first effect symbol displayed on the main display unit 62A of the effect symbol display device 62 are stopped at the same symbol and the other one effect symbol is changing. Means. Here, the two production symbols stopped first may be odd numbers or even numbers. An odd-numbered symbol means a reach state to a probable big hit, and an even-numbered symbol means a reach state to a normal big hit.

  The center accessory 64 is mounted so as to protrude from the front peripheral portion of the effect symbol display device 62. The center accessory 64 has a pair of movable blade pieces 64A. The opening area of the warp entrance 58 is changed by the movement of the blade piece 64A.

  On the lower left side of the game area 28, a 7-segment display board (symbol display device) 68 that performs display control of special symbols and normal symbols based on a control signal from the main control board 102 is disposed. The 7-segment display board 68 includes a 7-segment display 70 for displaying a special symbol (this special symbol, which corresponds to one form of the identification symbol of the present invention), four normal symbol hold display LEDs 72, and four It has a special symbol hold display LED 74 and two normal symbol display LEDs 76 for displaying a normal symbol.

  Here, in the case of a probable big hit, a predetermined identification symbol (for example, a probable big hit symbol consisting of an odd number) is stopped and displayed on the 7-segment display 70. In the case of a normal big hit, another predetermined identification symbol (for example, a normal big hit symbol consisting of an even number) is stopped and displayed on the 7-segment display 70.

  A special symbol displayed on the 7-segment display 70, a first effect symbol displayed on the main display unit 62A of the effect symbol display device 62, and a second effect symbol displayed on the sub display unit 62B. Indicates the same game result (lottery result).

  A normal symbol operation gate 78 is disposed on the left side of the effect symbol display device 62. A gate switch 124 (see FIG. 3) is disposed inside the normal symbol operating gate 78. As a result, when the game ball passes the normal symbol operation gate 78, the gate switch 124 is operated, and the normal symbol display LED 76 of the 7-segment display board 68 is variably displayed.

  Each normal symbol hold display LED 72 and each special symbol hold display LED 74 are composed of four round red LEDs, and are arranged close to the left and right sides of the 7-segment display 70. In this case, the number of game balls that have passed through the normal symbol operation gate 78 is set to hold the normal symbols up to four, and the lights are sequentially turned on and shifted for each passage. In addition, the number of game balls that have entered the start opening 56B is also reserved for up to four special symbols, which are sequentially lit and shifted for each incoming ball. Each time the variable display on the 7-segment display 70 starts, the number of unstarted times is exhausted, and one special symbol hold display LED 74 is turned off. Further, each time the normal symbol display LED 76 starts to change the normal symbol, the number of unstarted times is consumed, and one normal symbol hold display LED 72 is turned off. Then, when a predetermined jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the 7-segment display 70, a jackpot is generated and the jackpot 86 is opened. Further, when the two normal symbol display LEDs 76 are stopped and displayed in a predetermined display mode (a winning symbol), a normal symbol hit occurs and the start port 56B is opened.

  A start port 56B is disposed below the effect symbol display device 62, and the start port 56B is formed so as to open and close a pair of wing piece members 56A in a so-called tulip type. Inside the start port 56B, a start port switch 120 (see FIG. 3) for detecting the passage of the game ball and a start port solenoid 130 (see FIG. 3) for operating the wing piece member 56A are provided. ing. When the pair of wing piece members 56A are opened to the left and right, the opening area of the start port 56B is increased, and the possibility of entering a game ball is increased. When the pair of wing piece members 56A are closed and the separation distance is reduced. The opening area of the start opening 56B is reduced, and the normal state is reduced where the possibility of entering a game ball is reduced.

  A big winning device 84 is arranged below the start port 56B. The variable winning device 80 includes a substrate 82 and a big winning device 84. Here, the grand prize winning device 84 is disposed substantially at the center, and has a grand prize winning opening 86 opened in a strip shape, an opening / closing plate 88 for opening or closing the special winning prize opening 86, and opening / closing the opening / closing plate 88. A large winning opening solenoid 132 (see FIG. 3) and a count switch 126 (see FIG. 3) for detecting a winning ball.

  A windmill 63 is disposed on the lower left side of the central device 54. Further, a pair of side lamps 90 are respectively disposed on the lower left portion and the lower right portion of the game area.

  An out port 92 is provided below the game board 26, and a back ball preventing member 94 is provided below the out port 92. The back ball preventing member 94 prevents the game ball that has returned without reaching the game area 28 from returning to the launch position again. A foul ball prevention member 96 is attached to the tip of the inner rail 52.

  Next, an electronic control device that constitutes the pachinko machine 10 will be described.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the electronic control unit includes a main control board 102, a payout control board 104, a sub control board 106, and a launch control board 108.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the main control board 102 includes a CPU 102A, a ROM 102B, and a main-side command transmission unit 102C.

  The CPU 102A of the main control board 102 controls a starting port solenoid 130, which will be described later, a big prize opening solenoid 132, which will be described later, a symbol display device 134, which will be described later, and the sub control board 106, based on data stored in the ROM 102B. Further, the CPU 102A of the main control board 102 controls the entire game and mainly determines a game state such as determination of success / failure, and performs sub-control for performing control for realizing a game environment (effect mode) according to the determined game state. The board 106 and the dispensing control board 104 are directly controlled. Further, the CPU 102 </ b> A of the main control board 102 indirectly controls the effect display board 110, the amplifier board 112, the decoration drive board 114, and the effect button board 116 via the sub-control board 106.

  In particular, the CPU 102A executes a jackpot lottery process (special game lottery process) triggered by the entry of a game ball into the start port 56B, and determines the success / failure using an arbitrary random number (special symbol determination random number). It has. The CPU 102A also has a function of determining a variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol (identification symbol) with the execution of the special symbol determination.

  The variation pattern of the special symbol corresponds to the effect pattern (game effect) of the first effect symbol and the second effect symbol displayed on the main display unit 62A and the sub display unit 62B of the effect symbol display device 62, and the CPU 102A. The “determination of the special pattern variation pattern” performed by the “correspondence” is equivalent to “determination of the effect pattern (game effect) of the first effect symbol and the second effect symbol”. Then, when the variation pattern of the special symbol (the production pattern of the first effect symbol and the second effect symbol) is determined, the variation display of the special symbol is started on the 7-segment display 70, and the effect symbol display device 62 When the main display unit 62A and the sub display unit 62B start to display the variation of the first effect symbol and the second effect symbol, and the variation time specified by the determined variation pattern has elapsed, the identification symbol, the first effect symbol, and the second effect symbol The two effect symbols are stopped and displayed, and the result of determining whether or not the special symbol is successful (a jackpot lottery result) is notified to the player according to the combination pattern of the effect symbols that are stopped and displayed. Note that the main display portion 62A of the effect symbol display device 62 is arranged at the approximate center of the surface (board surface) of the game board 26 so as to easily enter the player's field of view. On the other hand, the 7-segment display 70 is arranged at the end of the surface (board surface) of the game board 26 (the left end of the board surface in the present embodiment) so as not to easily enter the player's field of view. For this reason, it is common for a player to play a game while paying attention to the display content of the main display portion 62A of the effect symbol display device 62.

  The ROM 102B of the main control board 102 stores a program for realizing control of the entire game executed by the CPU 102A.

  The main-side command transmission unit 102C of the main control board 102 transmits predetermined commands determined by the CPU 102A to the sub-control board 106 and the payout control board 104, respectively.

  The main control board 102 is electrically connected to the start port switch 120, the big prize port switch 122, the gate switch 124, and the count switch 126 via the relay terminal plate 118, respectively.

  The main control board 102 is electrically connected to the start opening solenoid 130, the big prize opening solenoid 132, and the symbol display device 134 via the relay terminal board 128, respectively. The 7-segment display board 68 is an embodiment of the symbol display device 134.

  The payout control board 104 is electrically connected to the glass frame switch 138, the external tank switch 140, and the tank switch 142 via the relay terminal plate 136, respectively. Further, the payout control board 104 is electrically connected to the error LED 146 via the relay terminal board 144. The payout control board 104 is electrically connected to the lower pan full tank switch 148. Further, the payout control board 104 is electrically connected to a ball rental display board 152 and a ball rental apparatus (CR unit) 154 via a relay terminal board 150, respectively.

  The ball rental display board 152 is electrically connected with a ball rental switch 156 and a return switch 158, respectively. The payout control board 104 is electrically connected to a payout device 161 having a payout motor 162 and a payout switch 164 via a relay terminal plate 160, respectively. Further, the payout control board 104 is electrically connected to the main control board 102 and the launch control board 108, respectively.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the sub control board 106 is electrically connected to the effect display board 110, the amplifier board 112, the decoration drive board 114, and the effect button board 116.

  The sub-control board 106 controls the game effects based on the control signal from the main control board 102. Further, the sub control board 106 includes a CPU 106A (end effect execution time determining means), a ROM 106B (second effect execution time storage means), a sub-side command transmission unit 106C, a probability variation counter 106D, and an ending timer 106E. I have.

  The CPU 106 </ b> A of the sub control board 106 receives the control signal from the main control board 102 and controls each board such as the effect display board 110, the amplifier board 112, the decoration drive board 114, and the effect button board 116.

  The ROM 106B stores data (especially information related to game decoration) necessary for controlling each board.

  The sub-side command transmission unit 106C transmits predetermined commands determined by the CPU 106A to the effect display board 110, the amplifier board 112, and the decoration drive board 114, respectively.

  The probability variation counter 106D counts minus the number of times that the game has entered the probability variation state. Specifically, in S580 of FIG. 8, when the probability is changing, only “−1” is counted.

  The ending timer 106E measures the time until the end of the big hit ending effect display (the remaining execution time of the big hit ending effect display). The ending timer 106E is set by the CPU 106A, and the jackpot ending display is continued for the set time.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the effect display device 166 (62) and the effect display ROM 168 are electrically connected to the effect display board 110. The effect display ROM 168 stores data (image data) of the first effect symbol and the second effect symbol that are displayed in a variable manner and stopped on the main display portion 62A and the sub display portion 62B of the effect symbol display device 62. . The effect display ROM 168 stores data (image data) of jackpot ending effect symbols that are displayed in a variable manner and stopped on the main display unit 62A of the effect symbol display device 62. The effect symbol display device 62 is an embodiment of the effect display device 166.

  Various speakers 170 (48) that output predetermined sound effects are electrically connected to the amplifier board 112. The sub-speaker 48 is an embodiment of various speakers 170.

  In addition, various types of LEDs and lamps 172 (66) are electrically connected to the decorative driving board 114. The decoration driving board 114 receives a control signal from the sub-control board 106 and performs control related to game decoration. In particular, the decorative drive board 114 controls the light emission of each lamp device 66 based on a control signal from the sub-control board 106. In addition, an operation switch 174 (40) is electrically connected to the effect button board 116. The lamp device 66 is an embodiment of various LEDs / lamps 172. The effect button 40 is an embodiment of the operation switch 174.

  Next, the special symbol variation pattern setting process on the main control board 102 will be described. The special symbol variation pattern setting process on the main control board 102 is executed when the variation display of the special symbol based on the entry of the game ball into the start port 56B is started.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the CPU 102A of the main control board 102 determines whether or not the result of the special symbol lottery process (big hit lottery process) is a big hit (S100). If it is determined that the game is a big hit (S100: YES), it is then determined whether or not the gaming state is in a probable change (S110).

  Next, when it is determined that the gaming state is in the probability change state (S110: YES), the CPU 102A sets the probability variation time variation pattern table for the special symbol (S120). When the probability variation time variation pattern table is set, a special symbol hit stop symbol is set (S130). Next, a special symbol hit variation pattern is set (S140).

  If it is determined in S110 that the gaming state is not in a certain change state (S110: NO), the CPU 102A determines whether or not the gaming state is being shortened (S150). If it is determined that the gaming state is in a short time (S150: YES), a variable pattern table for short time per hour relating to special symbols is set (S160). Then, the process proceeds to S130, and a special symbol hit stop symbol is set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S140, and the same processing as described above is executed.

  Further, if it is determined in S150 that the gaming state is not short (S150: NO), a normal hour variation pattern table for special symbols is set (S170). Then, the process proceeds to S130, and a special symbol hit stop symbol is set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S140, and the same processing as described above is executed.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in S100 that the game is not a big hit (S100: NO), the CPU 102A determines whether or not the gaming state is being changed (S180).

  If it is determined that the gaming state is in the probability change (S180: YES), the probability variation out-of-change pattern pattern for the special symbol is set (S190). Then, a special symbol removal stop symbol is set (S200).

  Next, the CPU 102A determines whether or not the variation pattern of the special symbol set this time is the variation pattern of “with reach” (S210), and if it is “with reach” (S210: YES), it is special. A pattern reach / displacement variation pattern is set (S220). If it is not “with reach” (S210: NO), a special symbol without reach / displacement variation pattern is set (S230).

  If it is determined in S180 that the gaming state is not in a certain change state (S180: NO), the CPU 102A determines whether or not the gaming state is being shortened (S240).

  If it is determined that the gaming state is in a short time (S240: YES), a variable pattern table for losing time in relation to a special symbol is set (S250). Then, the process proceeds to S200, and a special symbol detachment stop symbol is set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S210, and the same processing as described above is executed.

  If it is determined that the gaming state is not short (S240: NO), a normal deviation pattern table for special symbols is set (S260). Then, the process proceeds to S200, and a special symbol detachment stop symbol is set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S210, and the same processing as described above is executed.

  The variation pattern defines the variation time of the special symbol (this symbol). In each variation pattern table, the data indicating the variation time of the special symbol (this symbol) is the gaming state (probability variation, short time). And the presence or absence of reach) and a lottery lottery result in association with each other.

  Next, the symbol variation effect process in the sub control board 106 will be described. In the following, it is performed in conjunction with the special symbol variation display on the 7-segment display 70. A control process related to the effect display (change display of the first effect symbol and the second effect symbol) on the effect symbol display device 62 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the CPU 106A determines whether or not a variation pattern designation command has been received from the main-side command transmission unit 102C of the main control board 102 (S300). Here, the fluctuation pattern designation command is command data indicating a fluctuation pattern set in the above-described processes of S140, S220, and S230.

  If it is determined that the variation pattern designation command has been received (S300: YES), the CPU 106A determines whether or not a special symbol stop information designation command has been received from the main-side command transmission unit 102C of the main control board 102 (S310). ). Here, the special symbol stop information designation command is command data indicating the stop symbol of the special symbol (identification symbol) set in S130 and S200 described above.

  If it is determined that the special symbol stop information designation command has been received (S310: YES), the CPU 106A determines whether the special symbol (identification symbol) stop symbol (the result of the big hit lottery) is a big hit (S320).

  When it is determined that the special symbol (identification symbol) stop symbol (result of the big hit lottery) is a big hit (S320: YES), the big hit effect process is executed (S330). On the other hand, if it is determined that the special symbol (identification symbol) stop symbol (the result of the big hit lottery) is not a big hit (S320: NO), the off effect processing is executed (S340).

  Next, the big hit effect process in the sub control board 106 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the CPU 106A of the sub-control board 106 determines whether or not the big hit ending effect symbol is being displayed (when the big hit ending effect display is being executed) (S400). Specifically, the jackpot ending effect display is being executed while it is being changed. Whether or not the probability change is in progress is determined because the CPU 102A of the main control board 102 has selected a different variation pattern between the normal time and the probability change time (see S120, S160, and S170 in FIG. 5). If the sub-control board 106 receives the command, it is determined that the probability change is in progress. Note that if the jackpot ending effect execution time (special effect execution time) elapses before the probability change game executed subsequently after the jackpot game ends, the effect display with the jackpot ending effect symbol is not executed. In some cases, probabilistic games continue.

  When it is determined that the jackpot ending effect symbol is being displayed (when the jackpot ending effect display is being executed) (S400: YES), the sub-side command transmission unit 106C of the sub control board 106 applies the second to the effect display board 110. A symbol variation start command and a second symbol designation command are transmitted (S410). The second symbol refers to a second effect symbol that is variably displayed on the sub display unit 62B of the effect symbol display device 62.

  Here, in the transmission of the second symbol variation start command, the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main-side command transmission unit 102C of the main control board 102 passes (through) the sub-control board 106, and the effect display board 110 is used as it is. To be executed. The second symbol designating command is a command for designating a stop symbol of the second rendering symbol that is variably displayed on the sub display unit 62B of the rendering symbol display device 62.

  When the second symbol change start command and the second symbol designation command are received by the effect display board 110, the check display is confirmed by the effect display board 110, and then the symbol change is made in the sub display unit 62B of the effect symbol display device 62. Is started.

  The process of S410 is performed when the jackpot ending effect display is currently being executed. During the jackpot ending effect display, as described above, the main display unit 62A of the effect symbol display device 62 performs the previous operation. A jackpot ending effect design indicating the end of the jackpot game is displayed. Therefore, in S410, the sub-display portion 62B of the effect symbol display device 62 starts to display the second effect symbol variation display, and the main display portion 62A displays the jackpot ending effect display (big hit) indicating the end of the previous jackpot game. The display of the ending effect design) continues.

  Next, the CPU 106A determines whether or not an effect stop command has been received from the main-side command transmission unit 102C of the main control board 102 (S420).

  If it is determined that an effect stop command has been received (S420: YES), a second symbol stop command is transmitted from the sub-side command transmission unit 106C of the sub control board 106 to the effect display board 110 (S430).

  Here, the second symbol stop command is transmitted by transmitting the effect stop command transmitted from the main-side command transmitting unit 102C of the main control board 102 to the effect display board 110 as it passes through the sub control board 106 (through). To be executed. Thereby, the variation of the second effect symbol (second symbol) in the sub display unit 62B of the effect symbol display device 62 is stopped, and the second effect symbol is stopped at the hit stop symbol specified by the above-described second symbol designation command. Is displayed.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S400 that the big hit ending effect display is not being executed (S400: NO), the first symbol variation start command is sent from the sub-side command transmission unit 106C of the sub control board 106 to the effect display board 110. , A second symbol variation start command, a first symbol designation command, and a second symbol designation command are transmitted (S440). The first symbol means the first effect symbol that is variably displayed on the main display unit 62A of the effect symbol display device 62.

  Here, the transmission of the first symbol variation start command and the second symbol variation start command is performed when the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main-side command transmission unit 102C of the main control board 102 passes through the sub-control board 106 (through). ) And transmitted to the effect display board 110 as it is. Further, the first symbol designating command is a command for designating a stop symbol of the first rendering symbol that is variably displayed on the main display 62A of the rendering symbol display device 62.

  When the first symbol variation start command, the second symbol variation start command, the first symbol designation command, and the second symbol designation command are received by the effect display board 110, the effect display board 110 confirms the checksum, and then the effect The symbol variation is started in the main display unit 62A and the sub display unit 62B of the symbol display device 62.

  In S440, the variable display of the second effect symbol (second symbol) is started on the sub display portion 62B of the effect symbol display device 62, and the first effect symbol (first symbol) is changed on the main display portion 62A. Display starts.

  Next, the CPU 106A determines whether or not an effect stop command has been received from the main-side command transmission unit 102C of the main control board 102 (S450).

  If it is determined that an effect stop command has been received (S450: YES), the first symbol stop command and the second symbol stop command are respectively sent from the sub-side command transmission unit 106C of the sub control board 106 to the effect display board 110. It is transmitted (S460). As a result, the variation of the second effect symbol (second symbol) in the sub display portion 62B of the effect symbol display device 62 is stopped, and the variation of the first effect symbol (first symbol) in the main display portion 62A is stopped. The first effect symbol and the second effect symbol are stopped and displayed at the hit stop symbols specified by the above-described first symbol designation command and second symbol designation command, respectively.

  Here, in the transmission of the first symbol stop command, the effect stop command transmitted from the main-side command transmission unit 102C of the main control board 102 passes through the sub-control board 106 and is transmitted to the effect display board 110 as it is. To be executed. The transmission of the second symbol stop command is as described above.

  Note that after the end of S430 or S460, the process shifts to a big hit game effect process in the sub-control board 106 shown in FIG.

  As described above, after the big hit game is over, regardless of whether or not the probability change game is being played, the big hit ending effect symbol indicating that the big hit game has ended is continuously displayed on the main display portion 62A of the effect symbol display device 62. The As a result, the player is immersed in the finish of the jackpot game that has ended, and the impression is as if the jackpot game is still continuing (impression that the special symbol variation display after the jackpot game has not yet started) Will receive.

  Next, a disengagement effect process in the sub control board 106 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the CPU 106A of the sub-control board 106 determines whether or not the big hit ending effect symbol is being displayed (when the big hit ending effect display is being executed) (S500).

  If it is determined that the ending effect display is being executed (S500: YES), the second symbol variation start command and the second symbol designation command are sent from the sub-side command transmission unit 106C of the sub control board 106 to the effect display board 110. Is transmitted (S510). The second symbol is as described above.

  Here, in the transmission of the second symbol variation start command, the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main-side command transmission unit 102C of the main control board 102 passes through the sub-control board 106 (through), and the effect display board 110 is used as it is. To be executed. The second symbol designation command is also as described above. This is a command for designating the stop symbol of the first symbol.

  When the second symbol change start command and the second symbol designation command are received by the effect display board 110, the check display is confirmed by the effect display board 110, and then the symbol change is made in the sub display unit 62B of the effect symbol display device 62. Is started.

  Here, the processing of S510 is performed when the jackpot ending effect display is currently being executed. During the jackpot ending effect display, as described above, the main display portion 62A of the effect symbol display device 62 is displayed. The jackpot ending effect (special effect symbol) that indicates the end of the previous jackpot game is displayed. Therefore, in S510, the sub-display unit 62B of the effect symbol display device 62 starts to display the variation of the second effect symbol, and the main display unit 62A displays the jackpot ending effect display (hit the jackpot) that suggests the end of the previous jackpot game. The display of the ending effect design) continues.

  Next, the CPU 106A determines whether or not an effect stop command has been received from the main-side command transmission unit 102C of the main control board 102 (S520).

  If it is determined that an effect stop command has been received (S520: YES), a second symbol stop command is transmitted from the sub-side command transmission unit 106C of the sub control board 106 to the effect display board 110 (S530).

  Here, the second symbol stop command is transmitted by transmitting the effect stop command transmitted from the main-side command transmission unit 102C of the main control board 102 to the effect display board 110 as it passes through the sub-control board 106 (through). To be executed. Thereby, the fluctuation | variation of the 2nd effect symbol in the sub display part 62B of the effect symbol display apparatus 62 is stopped.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in S500 that the big hit ending effect display is not being executed (S500: NO), the first symbol variation start command is sent from the sub-side command transmission unit 106C of the sub control board 106 to the effect display board 110. , A second symbol variation start command, a first symbol designation command, and a second symbol designation command are transmitted (S540). The first symbol is as described above.

  Here, the transmission of the first symbol variation start command and the second symbol variation start command is performed when the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main-side command transmission unit 102C of the main control board 102 passes through the sub-control board 106 (through). ) And transmitted to the effect display board 110 as it is. The first symbol designation command is as described above.

  When the first symbol variation start command, the second symbol variation start command, the first symbol designation command, and the second symbol designation command are received by the effect display board 110, after the checksum is confirmed by the effect display board 110, the symbol Variation starts.

  In S540, the sub-display unit 62B of the effect symbol display device 62 starts the variable display of the second effect symbol (second symbol), and the main display unit 62A changes the first effect symbol (first symbol). Display starts.

  Next, the CPU 106A determines whether or not an effect stop command has been received from the main-side command transmission unit 102C of the main control board 102 (S550).

  If it is determined that the effect stop command has been received (S550: YES), the first symbol stop command and the second symbol stop command are respectively sent from the sub-side command transmission unit 106C of the sub control board 106 to the effect display board 110. It is transmitted (S560).

  Here, in the transmission of the first symbol stop command, the effect stop command transmitted from the main-side command transmission unit 102C of the main control board 102 passes through the sub-control board 106 and is transmitted to the effect display board 110 as it is. To be executed. Thereby, the fluctuation | variation of the 1st effect symbol in the main display part 62A of the effect symbol display apparatus 62 is stopped. The transmission of the second symbol stop command is as described above.

  Then, when S530 or S560 ends, it is determined whether or not the probability change is in progress (S570). Specifically, since the CPU 102A of the main control board 102 has selected different variation patterns between the normal time and the probability variation (see S120, S160, and S170 in FIG. 5), the variation pattern designation command at the time of probability variation is sub-controlled. If the board 106 receives the signal, it is determined that the probability change is in progress.

  When it is determined that the probability change is in progress (S570: YES), the probability change counter 106D is counted by "-1" (S580).

  Next, the CPU 106A of the sub control board 106 determines whether or not the value of the probability variation counter 106D has become “0 (zero)” (S590).

  If it is determined that the value of the probability variation counter 106D is “0 (zero)” (S590: YES), it is determined whether or not the jackpot ending effect symbol is being displayed (the jackpot ending effect display is being executed). CPU 106A determines (S600).

  If it is determined that the big hit ending effect display is being executed (S600: YES), the big hit ending effect end command is transmitted from the CPU 106A of the sub control board 106 to the effect display board 110 (S610). Thereby, the big hit ending effect display currently performed in the main display part 62A of the effect symbol display apparatus 62 is complete | finished. Thereafter, the first effect symbol is removed from the main display portion 62A of the effect symbol display device 62, and is stopped and displayed at the point where the pattern becomes a symbol pattern. In addition, also in the sub display part 62B of the effect symbol display device 62, the second effect symbol is removed and is stopped and displayed as a symbol.

  If it is determined in S570 that the probability change is not in progress (S570: NO), if it is determined in S590 that the value of the probability change counter 106D is not “0 (zero)” (S590: NO), an ending effect display is executed in S600. If it is determined that it is not in the middle (S600: NO), the removal effect processing of the sub-control board 106 shown in FIG.

  Next, the big hit game effect processing in the sub control board 106 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the ending timer 106E is reset by the CPU 106A of the sub-control board 106 (S700).

  Next, it is determined whether the CPU 106A of the sub control board 106 has received a fanfare effect designation command from the main command transmission unit 102C of the main control board 102 (S710).

  If it is determined that the fanfare effect designation command has been received (S710: YES), the fanfare effect designation command is transmitted from the sub-side command transmission unit 106C of the sub control board 106 to the effect display board 110 (S720). Thereby, the effect display board 110 receives the fanfare effect designation command transmitted from the sub-side command transmission unit 106C of the sub-control board 106, and executes the fanfare effect. Specifically, the main display unit 62A of the effect display device 62 displays a big hit fanfare effect (a big hit game start effect) for notifying the player of the start of the big hit game. Here, when the process of S710 of FIG. 9 is performed following the process of S430 of FIG. 7, the display mode on the main display unit 62A of the effect display device 62 switches from the big hit ending effect to the big hit fanfare effect. It will be. Therefore, normally, a player who plays a game while visually recognizing the main display portion 62A has an impression that the next big hit game is started in succession from the end of the previous big hit game.

  Next, the CPU 106A of the sub-control board 106 determines whether or not a big hit round number designation command has been received from the main-side command transmission unit 102C of the main control board 102 (S730).

  If it is determined that the big hit round number designation command is received (S730: YES), the big hit round number designation command is transmitted from the sub-side command transmission unit 106C of the sub control board 106 to the effect display board 110 (S740). ). Thereby, a big hit round screen is displayed on the main display portion 62A of the effect symbol display device 62.

  Next, the CPU 106A of the sub-control board 106 determines whether or not an ending effect designation command has been received from the main-side command transmission unit 102C of the main control board 102 (S750).

  If it is determined that the ending effect designation command has been received (S750: YES), the CPU 106A of the sub-control board 106 sets the big hit ending effect execution time (end effect execution time) in the ending timer 106E (S760). The method for setting the big hit ending effect execution time (end effect execution time) in S760 will be described later.

  Then, the CPU 106A of the sub control board 106 sets the probability variation game count in the probability variation counter 106D (S770). In S770, the number of fluctuations of the special symbol in the probability variation game that follows the end of the big hit game, in other words, the number of continuations of the probability variation game is set. The pachinko machine 10 according to the present embodiment is a so-called ST machine, and the probability variation counter 106 </ b> D is set to “4” because the number of variations of the special symbol of the probability variation game is four.

  Next, an ending effect designation command is transmitted from the sub-side command transmission unit 106C of the sub control board 106 to the effect display board 110 (S780). As a result, on the main display portion 62A of the effect symbol display device 62, the jackpot ending effect symbol indicating the end of the jackpot game is displayed, and the jackpot ending effect display is started. At the same time, timing (counting) by the ending timer 106E of the sub control board 106 is started. This jackpot ending effect display is continued until the jackpot ending effect execution time (end effect execution time) set in the ending timer 106E in S760 elapses.

  If it is determined in S730 that the big hit round number designation command has not been received (S730: NO), the process proceeds directly to S750 without passing through S740. If it is determined in S750 that the ending effect designation command has not been received (S750: NO), the process returns to S730, and the processing after S730 shown in FIG. 9 proceeds.

  As described above, in the probability variation game that is executed for a predetermined period after the end of the jackpot game, if the next jackpot is won, the next jackpot ending effect display is displayed after the end of the previous jackpot game. Since the game will continue, the player will feel that the jackpot game is continuous. As a result, it is possible to give the player the impression that the next jackpot game is started immediately after the end of the previous jackpot game without passing through the first effect symbol variation display. As a result, it is possible to enhance the interest in the probability variation game between the previous jackpot game and the next jackpot game.

  The execution period of the probability variation game that follows the end of the big hit game is determined by the number of times that the special symbol is variably displayed. Thereby, the execution period of the probability variation game that follows the end of the big hit game can be set to a relatively short period. As a result, even if it is a probability change game that follows the end of the jackpot game and the execution period is relatively short, the effect that the jackpot game still continues with the jackpot ending effect design is realized. Can increase the interest of the game. In particular, like the pachinko machine 10 of this embodiment, the winning probability of jackpot is about 1/70 to 1/100 (about 1/7 to 1/10 at the time of probability variation game), the number of times of execution of probability variation game is four times, On a pachinko machine called a so-called ST machine where the number of rounds of the jackpot game is set to 5 rounds, there is a high possibility that a jackpot will occur during a short-term probability-changing game. There is a high possibility that a big hit will occur. For this reason, in the pachinko machine called ST machine as in this embodiment, the opportunity to give the player the impression that the next jackpot game is started in succession without any special symbol changes since the end of the previous jackpot game. Therefore, the interest of the game can be further enhanced.

  Moreover, since the main display part 62A and the sub display part 62B are divided and formed on the video screen of the single effect symbol display device 62, the second effect symbol displayed on the sub display part 62B and the main display are displayed. The jackpot ending effect symbol displayed in the part 62A does not overlap. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the display of one of the special effect second effect symbol displayed on the sub display unit 62B or the big hit ending effect symbol displayed on the main display unit 62A from interfering with the other display.

  Next, the ending effect monitoring process in the sub control board 106 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the CPU 106A of the sub control board 106 determines whether or not the ending effect display is being executed (S800). In S800, when the jackpot ending effect display indicating the end of the jackpot game is progressing on the main display portion 62A of the effect symbol display device 62, it is determined that the jackpot ending effect display is being executed, and the effect symbol display device 62 is executed. When the big hit ending effect display is not progressing on the main display portion 62A, it is determined that the big hit ending effect display is not being executed.

  If it is determined that the big hit ending effect display is being executed (S800: YES), the CPU 106A of the sub control board 106 determines whether or not the ending timer 106E is "0 (zero)" (S810). .

  When it is determined that the ending timer 106E is “0 (zero)” (S810: YES), an ending effect end command is transmitted from the sub-side command transmission unit 106C of the sub-control board 106 to the effect display board 110. (S820). The effect display board 110 receives the ending effect end command from the sub-control board 106 and ends the jackpot ending effect display. Thereby, the big hit ending effect display displayed on the main display part 62A of the effect symbol display device 62 is completed. After that, the main display unit 62A of the effect symbol display device 62 is stopped and displayed at the disparity where the first effect symbol is removed and becomes a symbol. It should be noted that the second effect symbol is removed from the sub display unit 62B of the effect symbol display device 62, and is stopped and displayed as a symbol.

  When it is determined in S800 that the ending effect display is not being executed (S800: NO), or when it is determined in S810 that the ending timer 106E is not “0 (zero)” (S810: NO). The process shown in FIG. 10 ends.

  The CPU 106A of the sub control board 106 executes the “ending effect monitoring process” shown in FIG. 10 and the “processing of S570 to S610 in the off effect process” shown in FIG. 8 (the process of FIG. 10 and the process of FIG. 8). The process can be executed either in series or in parallel), and in the gaming machine of this embodiment, “End of jackpot end effect display” immediately becomes “End of probability change game” , It will have both the playability of the case where it does not become so.

  In other words, when the big hit game is finished, the main display unit 62A of the production symbol display device 62 starts the production display with the big hit ending production symbol, and the sub display unit 62B starts the variation display of the second production symbol in the probability variation game. After being done, the effect display by the big hit ending effect pattern is continued as it is. Then, when the change display of the second effect symbol (and the change display of the special symbol) that ends the probability variation game is ended, when the effect display by the big hit ending effect symbol is also ended (S570 in FIG. 8). In S610, the player recognizes that the probability variation game has ended when the jackpot ending effect display ends.

  Here, “End of jackpot ending effect display” and “End of probability change game” have the same timing as the four special symbol fluctuation displays after the jackpot game end (the special symbol fluctuation display during the probability variation game) ) Is performed continuously without stagnation. After the big hit game ends, the special symbol change display (the special symbol change display during the probable change game) is not performed continuously. The jackpot ending effect display ends before the end of the game. For example, when the number of special symbols held is less than “4” at the end of the big hit game, the end condition is satisfied in order to satisfy the end condition of the probability variable game performed following the end of the big hit game. It is necessary to enter a new number of game balls (for example, “2 game balls” when the number of reserved special symbols is “2” at the end of the big hit game) into the start opening 56B. While the time required for entering the game ball is consumed, the timing by the ending timer 106E proceeds. As a result, the jackpot ending effect display may end before the change display of the special symbol that will end the probability variation game ends. As a result, there is a case where “end of jackpot ending effect display” does not immediately become “end of probability change game”.

  As described above, the gaming machine according to the present embodiment has both the gameability of the case where “end of jackpot end effect display” immediately becomes “end of probability change game” and the case where it does not become such, Even if the big hit ending effect display ends, it is possible to make the player recognize that there is still a possibility that the game is likely to change, thereby further enhancing the entertainment of the game (especially the game of the ST machine). In addition, it is possible to prevent the “end of jackpot end effect display” from being used as a determination material for determining “when the game is stopped”, and it is possible to attract the player to the game after the end of the jackpot end effect display. .

  Next, the method for setting the execution time of the big hit ending effect in S760 of FIG. 9 will be described in detail.

(First embodiment)
The ending effect execution time (end effect execution time) is mainly composed of the following two times. That is, after the jackpot game is over, the “basic ending time (first effect execution time)” until the first special symbol variation display is started, and the probability variation game executed after the jackpot game is finished. The basic time required from the start to the end, in other words, the time required for the variable display of the special symbol (and the second effect symbol) for the number of times the probability variation game is continued (in this example, “four times”) (in this example, “4 The ending effect execution time is configured from “probability game standard time (second effect execution time)” which is the total time required for the variation display of the special symbol (and the second effect symbol) of “batch”.

  In the first embodiment, the variation display time of the special symbol (and the second effect symbol) during the probability variation game is set to “1 second” per time, and the number of times of the probability variation game (the number of executions) is “four times”. Therefore, the “probability game standard time (second effect execution time)” in the first embodiment is “4 seconds (1 second × 4 times)”. Here, when a special symbol stop display time (interval time between each variation display) is set in advance, this “stop display time” is also included in the “probability game standard time”. Then, in order to avoid complicated explanation, a case where only “variable display time” is considered without considering “stop display time” will be described as an example.

  On the other hand, the “basic ending time (first effect execution time)” can be arbitrarily set, and is set to “10 seconds” in the present embodiment. As a result, the “ending effect execution time” in this embodiment is “14 seconds”, which is the sum of the “basic ending time (10 seconds)” and the “probability game standard time (4 seconds)”.

  The “ending effect execution time (14 seconds)” of this embodiment is stored in advance in the ROM 106B of the sub control board 106, and the ROM 106B is executed in the process of S760 of FIG. 9 executed by the CPU 106A of the sub control board 106. Read from a predetermined address. Then, the read “ending effect execution time” “14 seconds” is set in the ending timer 106E. Thus, the ending timer 106E for which the “ending effect execution time” is set is referred to in the processing of S810 in FIG. Then, when the “basic ending time (10 seconds)” of the “ending effect execution time” elapses, the gaming state of the gaming machine is changed to a probable state, and the probable game is started, and the “basic ending time (10 seconds)” is set. The change display of the special symbol (and the change display of the second effect symbol) corresponding to the holding of the special symbol stored before the lapse (during the big hit game) is started.

  At this time, if the number of reserved special symbols at the time when the “basic ending time (10 seconds)” has reached the upper limit of retention (“4” in this example), the time when the “basic ending time (10 seconds)” has elapsed The time required from the time to the end of the probability variation game (probability variation game execution time) is “4 seconds”, which is equal to the above-described “probability variation game standard time”. As a result, “probability change game execution time” = “probability change game standard time”, and “end of jackpot ending effect display” and “end of probability change game” have the same timing.

  On the other hand, if the number of reserved special symbols at the time point of the “basic ending time (10 seconds)” has not reached the reservation upper limit (less than “4” in this example), the “basic ending time (10 seconds)” ) "Basic ending time (10 seconds)" unless game balls for the amount that do not reach the upper limit for holding are entered into the start opening 56B by the end of the change display of the special symbols for the number of held at the time The time required from the elapse of time to the end of the probability variation game (probability variation game execution time) is longer than the above-described “probability variation game standard time (“ 4 seconds ”in this example)”. As a result, if “probability game execution time”> “probability game standard time” is satisfied, before “probability change counter 106D = 0” is determined in the process of S590 in FIG. In step S810 in FIG. 10, it is determined that “ending timer 106E = 0”, and “big hit ending effect display” ends (before) “probability game”.

  In the first embodiment described above, the “ending effect execution time (end effect execution time)” is changed to “basic ending time (first effect execution time)” and “probability game standard time (second effect execution time)”. Based on this setting (stored in the ROM 106B) and determining that the “ending effect execution time” is set as the time to be set in the ending timer 106E at the end of the big hit game, the “end of big hit end effect display” is It is possible to easily realize a gaming machine having both the game characteristics of the case where “probability change game is immediately ended” and the case where it is not so.

  As a method (configuration) for setting the “ending effect execution time” in the ending timer 106E, the total time of the “basic ending time” and the “probability game standard time” as described above is stored in the ROM 106B in advance. In addition to reading the total time and setting it in the ending timer 106E, the “basic ending time” and the “probability game standard time” are stored separately in the ROM 106B, and each time is read when the ending timer 106E is set. The “ending effect execution time” may be calculated and set by a program. In this way, it is possible to easily cope with changes in the “probability change game standard time”, that is, changes in the “number of times that the probability change game continues after the big hit game”, “the variation time of special symbols during the probability change game”, etc. This improves the workability of game machine development.

(Second embodiment)
In the second embodiment, the “basic ending time” in the first embodiment is set as a fixed time, and the “probability variable game standard time” in the first embodiment is set as a variable time. The same as in the first embodiment. Below, a different point from 1st Example is demonstrated.

  In the second embodiment, the “ending effect execution time” is a fixed ending time (B1) that is a time until the first special symbol variation display is started after the big hit game is ended, and during the probability variation game. And a variable ending time (B2) set based on the variable display time of the special symbol (and the second effect symbol) displayed in a variable manner. Then, at the start of the big hit ending effect, the variable ending time (B2) is selected at random from a plurality of preset possible times and determined.

  That is, one “ending effect fixed ending time (B1)” and a plurality of “variable ending times (B2)” constituting the “ending effect execution time” are stored in advance in the ROM 106B of the sub control board 106. (ROM 106B corresponds to one form of the second effect execution time storage means of the present invention).

  Here, “10 (seconds: constant)” as the fixed ending time (B1), “1 (seconds)” corresponding to the variation time for one special symbol as the plurality of variation ending times (B2), the special symbol “2 (seconds)” corresponding to the fluctuation time for two times of “3”, “3 (seconds)” corresponding to the fluctuation time of three times of the special symbol, “4 (seconds) corresponding to the fluctuation time of four times of the special symbol. All the fluctuation times are stored in the ROM 106B.

  Next, when the CPU 106A of the sub-control board 106 performs the process of S760 of FIG. 9 (setting of the ending timer 106E), one variation ending time is selected from the plurality of variation ending times (B2) stored in the ROM 106B. (B2) is selected, the total time (B1 + B2) of the selected variable ending time (B2) and fixed ending time (B1) is calculated, and the calculated total time is ending as “ending effect execution time” Set to timer 106E. Note that the selection of the variable ending time is performed by random number lottery using a random counter (variable ending time determining random number) provided in the CPU 106A of the sub-control board 106. Then, the ending timer 106E in which the “ending effect execution time” is set is referred to in the process of S810 in FIG.

  Next, when the “fixed ending time (B1)” of the “ending effect execution time” elapses, the gaming state of the gaming machine becomes a probable change state and the probability change game starts, and the “fixed ending time (B1) elapses. The special symbol variation display (and the second effect symbol variation display) corresponding to the reservation of the special symbol stored before (during the big hit game) is started.

  At this time, if “the value of the number of reserved special symbols at the time when the fixed ending time (B1) has elapsed” = “the value of the selected variable ending time (B2)”, for example, “the fixed ending time (B1)” If the number of special symbols held at the time of passage is “4” and “4 seconds” is selected as the “variable ending time (B2)” when setting the ending timer 106E, the “fixed ending time ( The time required from the elapse of “B1, 10 seconds in this example) to the end of the probability variation game (probability variation game execution time) is equal to the“ variation ending time (B2) ”(probability variation game execution time = variation ending time = 4). As a result, “probability change game execution time” = “variation ending time (B2)”, and “end of jackpot ending effect display” and “end of probability change game” have the same timing.

  On the other hand, when “the value of the number of reserved special symbols at the time when the fixed ending time (B1) has passed”> “the value of the selected variable ending time (B2)”, for example, the passage of the “fixed ending time (B1)” If the number of special symbols held at the time is “4” and “3 seconds” is selected as the “variable ending time (B2)” at the time of setting the ending timer 106E, FIG. Prior to the determination of “probability variation counter 106D = 0” in the processing of S590, it is determined that “ending timer 106E = 0” in the processing of S810 of FIG. As a result, the “big hit ending effect display” ends before (before) the “probability game”.

  Further, when “the value of the number of reserved special symbols at the time of elapse of the fixed ending time (B1)” <“value of the selected variable ending time (B2)”, for example, the elapse of the “fixed ending time (B1)” If the number of special symbols held at the time is “2” and “4 seconds” is selected as the “variable ending time (B2)” when setting the ending timer 106E, the “fixed ending time (B1)” ”For the number of reserved special symbols (for example, two special symbol variable displays) until the end of the display, the number of game balls (for example, two game balls) that do not reach the upper limit of holding ) Is not entered into the start opening 56B, the time required from the elapse of the “fixed ending time (B1, 10 seconds in this example)” to the end of the probability variation game (probability variation game execution time) is “variable end time”. Longer than Ingu time (B2) ". As a result, before the “probability variation counter 106D = 0” is determined in the processing of S590 of FIG. 8 during the probability variation game, it is determined that “ending timer 106E = 0” in the processing of S810 of FIG. The “hit ending effect display” will end before (before) the “probability game”.

  As described above, in the second embodiment, variations in the ending effect execution time (B1 + B2) can be provided depending on the selected variation ending time (B2). As a result, the length of the ending effect execution time (B1 + B2) becomes unpredictable to the player, so it is more difficult to determine whether “end of jackpot ending effect display” and “end of probability change game” are synchronized. It becomes. Thereby, the player can be effectively attracted to the game even after the end of the big hit ending effect display.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the time from the end of the jackpot ending effect display to the end of the probability change game is lengthened by setting the ending effect execution time to a relatively short time with respect to the above-mentioned probability change game standard time. Can be set. As a result, even after the end of the jackpot ending effect display, it is possible to set the probabilistic gaming state that the player expects regarding the progress of the game for a long time, and to further enhance the gaming interest.

  In the embodiment described above, the setting process of the ending effect execution time is shown to be executed by the sub-control board 106, but the main control board 102 may execute the setting process of the ending effect execution time. Good.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a front view of the game board of the gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the principal part of the electronic control apparatus of the game machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the sub control board which comprises the electronic controller of the gaming machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol fluctuation pattern setting process in the main control board of the game machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the design change effect process in the sub control board of the gaming machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the big hit effect process in the sub control board of the game machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the removal effect process in the sub control board of the gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the jackpot game effect process in the sub control board of the gaming machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the ending effect monitoring process in the sub control board of the game machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

10 Pachinko machines (game machines)
102 Main control board (design display control means)
106 Sub-control board (production display control means)
106A CPU (effect display control means, end effect execution time determination means)
106B ROM (second effect execution time storage means)

Claims (3)

A lottery means for performing a lottery for determining whether or not to start a big hit game, a symbol display device for displaying a variation of an identification symbol indicating the result of the lottery every time the lottery performs the lottery, and display control for the identification symbol A symbol display control means for performing, a display device for performing a jackpot end effect display indicating the end of the jackpot game, and an effect display control means for performing display control of the jackpot end effect display. A game machine that executes a probability variation game in which the probability of winning the lottery is higher than usual until the lottery means performs the lottery a predetermined number of times after the end,
The effect display control means starts the jackpot end effect display on the effect display device at the end of the jackpot game, and the symbol display control means displays the variation of the identification symbol in the probability variation game on the symbol display device. Even after starting the jackpot game, the jackpot end effect display is continued for the end effect execution time set within the time range from the end of the jackpot game to the end of the probability variation game, and the end effect execution time has elapsed. When this is done, the jackpot end effect display is ended. The effect display control means includes end effect execution time determining means for determining the end effect execution time,
The end effect execution time determining means is
Required to execute the first effect execution time, which is the time from the end of the jackpot game to the time when the first variation display of the identification symbol in the probability variation game is started, and the predetermined number of variations of the identification symbol. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the end effect execution time is determined by a total time of the second effect execution time as time. The effect display control means includes second effect execution time storage means for storing a plurality of second effect execution times that differ depending on the number of times the identification symbol is changed in the probability variation game.
The end effect execution time determining means is
The end effect execution time is determined by a total time of the first effect execution time and the second effect execution time selected from the second effect execution time storage unit. The gaming machine described in 1.

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