JP2009219761A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine which allows a player to easily recognize the state of an insurance function (loss compensating function) at present and have interest in the insurance function. <P>SOLUTION: A Pachinko game machine 10 displays insurance contents (information relating to the operation of the loss compensating function) every time the insurance contents are switched. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

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

  In a conventional pachinko machine, when a game ball enters the start area of the game board, a big hit lottery is performed, and after three pieces of identification information consisting of multiple symbols fluctuate, the combination stops according to the result of the big win lottery On the other hand, an effect display using a character image or the like is performed in accordance with the variation of the identification information. When winning in this jackpot lottery, for example, after three pieces of identification information are stopped and displayed so that they all have the same symbol, a lot of balls are provided to the player.

  In such a pachinko gaming machine, the maximum number of balls that can be expected according to the winning probability of the jackpot lottery or the jackpot is set for each model. Specifically, there are many models on the market with a winning probability of 1/300 for the big hit lottery and a maximum number of balls of about 1800. In recent years, models with a winning probability of 1/90 for a big hit lottery and a maximum number of balls of about 600 have been provided.

  However, the winning probability of the jackpot lottery set in the pachinko gaming machine is a theoretical value, and is not actually won the jackpot as the winning probability of the jackpot lottery. In other words, even if the winning probability of the jackpot lottery is 1/300, the jackpot may appear continuously, or the result of the lottery lottery will be over 1000 times, that is, a so-called humiliation state. There is also a possibility. In this hammari state, the player's willingness to play gradually fades. In addition, when the next player wins the jackpot, he / she feels unfair and sometimes loses interest in the game.

  Accordingly, gaming machines other than pachinko gaming machines have been provided with a function for relieving the humming state. For example, in a revolving type gaming machine (pachislot) that uses coins as a game medium, when a lottery number that does not win a jackpot (bonus in a pachislot) reaches a predetermined number, a reward is provided to the player. ing. That is, a gaming machine is provided that pays out a certain amount when the number of lotteries that are not won reaches the ceiling value in the so-called No. 4 machine.

In addition, in slot machines that use coins as a game medium, a prize for insurance (loss compensation) is stored for a predetermined percentage of prizes other than big prizes such as bonus prizes or big wins, and the prescribed conditions are met. There is provided a slot machine that provides an insurance function that compensates for loss in the event of a failure, thereby relieving the staleness (Patent Documents 1 and 2). Furthermore, a slot machine having a plurality of so-called ceiling values is provided in order to save players in a stale state (Patent Document 3). In addition, an insurance function is set on condition that a predetermined number of coins have been inserted, and a slot machine is provided that displays that when the insurance function is set (Patent Document 4).
US Pat. No. 5,910,048 JP-A-4-244178 JP 2007-97983 A JP 2007-125297 A

  However, in pachinko machines, when a ceiling or an insurance function for relieving a humming condition such as a pachislot or slot machine that uses the above coin as a game medium is added, for example, an insurance function is automatically added. Being done is not uniformly preferable for the player.

  That is, for a player who plays a game only for a short time, the insurance function is unlikely to be compensated for a loss, and the insurance function may be troublesome. Further, there are some players who do not like collecting insurance by adding an insurance function, for example, collecting several game balls, because games are accompanied by humility. For a player who feels like this, it is difficult to alleviate unfairness through the insurance function.

  In addition, if the player cannot grasp whether the insurance function is currently active or if the insurance function is active, the player will be notified when the insurance is paid out, In some cases, the amount of insurance, such as the amount paid out, cannot be determined. This may reduce interest in the insurance function. Furthermore, there is a problem that it becomes difficult for the player to decide whether to stop the current game table halfway or to continue to play as it is.

  The present invention has been made to solve such a conventional problem, and the object of the present invention is to make it easier for the player to recognize the current state of the insurance function (loss compensation function). An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of giving interest in an insurance function.

  In order to achieve the above object, according to the first aspect of the present invention, a game board having a game area in which a game ball fired by a launch operation by a player rolls and a winning area in the game area are fired. A game execution control means for controlling a game for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls when the game ball passes, and a predetermined amount of valuable value for playing the game is collected, according to the game result by the control of the game execution control means Loss compensation operation control means for performing control by switching a plurality of types of loss compensation functions for compensating a player's loss, selection means for accepting selection operation of whether or not to activate the loss compensation function, and loss compensation operation control When the means switches the loss compensation function, it comprises display means for displaying information relating to the operation of the loss compensation function.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, a loss compensation function for performing loss compensation according to a game result can be activated by spending a valuable value of a predetermined amount of game balls or the like when a game is executed. Furthermore, since the invention according to claim 1 activates the loss compensation function when the selection operation for activating the loss compensation function is performed, the loss compensation function is activated for a player who does not need the loss compensation function. Can not be forced. Furthermore, since the invention according to claim 1 operates by switching a plurality of types of loss compensation functions, it can give a player a sense of expectation that a loss compensation function advantageous to himself / herself should be activated. As a result, interest in the loss compensation function can be maintained. Furthermore, since the invention according to claim 1 displays information on the operation of the loss compensation function when the loss compensation function is switched, the player can easily recognize the current state of the loss compensation function, You can have interest in insurance functions.

  In the invention according to claim 2, the loss compensation operation control means switches the loss compensation function at any timing among a plurality of timings, and the display means has a display mode according to the timing at which the loss compensation function is switched. And displaying information related to the operation of the loss compensation function.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, a loss compensation function for performing loss compensation according to a game result can be activated by spending a valuable value of a predetermined amount of game balls or the like when a game is executed. Furthermore, the invention according to claim 2 activates the loss compensation function when a selection operation for activating the loss compensation function is performed, so that the loss compensation function is activated for a player who does not need the loss compensation function. Can not be forced. Furthermore, since the invention according to claim 2 operates by switching a plurality of types of loss compensation functions, the player can have a sense of expectation that a loss compensation function advantageous to himself / herself should be activated. As a result, interest in the loss compensation function can be maintained. Furthermore, since the invention according to claim 2 displays information on the operation of the loss compensation function when the loss compensation function is switched, it makes it easier for the player to recognize the current state of the loss compensation function, Interest can be raised about the loss compensation function.

  Furthermore, since the invention according to claim 2 displays information related to the operation of the loss compensation function in a display mode corresponding to the timing at which the loss compensation function is switched, the timing at which the loss compensation function is switched to the player. It is possible to maintain interest in the entire game.

  The invention according to claim 3 is characterized in that the display means displays information related to the operation of the loss compensation function in a display mode according to the timing at which the loss compensation function is switched and the loss compensation function after switching. To do.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, a loss compensation function for performing loss compensation according to a game result can be activated by spending a valuable value of a predetermined amount of game balls or the like when a game is executed. Furthermore, the invention according to claim 3 activates the loss compensation function when a selection operation for activating the loss compensation function is performed, so that the loss compensation function is activated for a player who does not need the loss compensation function. Can not be forced. Furthermore, since the invention according to claim 3 is operated by switching a plurality of types of loss compensation functions, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation that a loss compensation function advantageous to himself / herself should be activated. As a result, interest in the loss compensation function can be maintained. Furthermore, since the invention according to claim 3 displays information on the operation of the loss compensation function when the loss compensation function is switched, it makes it easier for the player to recognize the current state of the loss compensation function, Interest can be raised about the loss compensation function.

  Furthermore, the invention according to claim 3 displays information on the operation of the loss compensation function in a display mode according to the timing at which the loss compensation function is switched and the loss compensation function after the switching. In addition to the timing at which the loss compensation function is switched, the display mode can be interested in the loss compensation function after switching, and thus the interest in the entire game can be maintained.

  In the invention according to claim 4, the timing at which the loss compensation function is switched is the timing at which the number of game balls fired by the launch operation by the player reaches any one of a predetermined number set. It is characterized by.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, a loss compensation function for performing loss compensation according to a game result can be activated by spending a valuable value of a predetermined amount of game balls or the like when a game is executed. Further, in the invention according to claim 4, since the loss compensation function is activated when the selection operation for activating the loss compensation function is performed, the loss compensation function is activated for a player who does not need the loss compensation function. Can not be forced. Furthermore, since the invention according to claim 4 operates by switching a plurality of types of loss compensation functions, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation that a loss compensation function that is advantageous to the player is desired to operate. As a result, interest in the loss compensation function can be maintained. Furthermore, since the invention according to claim 4 displays information on the operation of the loss compensation function when the loss compensation function is switched, the player can easily recognize the current state of the loss compensation function, Interest can be raised about the loss compensation function.

  Furthermore, the invention according to claim 4 switches the loss compensation function at the timing when the number of game balls fired by the launch operation by the player reaches any one of a predetermined number, so that the loss compensation function is switched. The timing at which the compensation function is switched can be related to the launch operation by the player. For this reason, the player can make a prediction at the timing when the loss compensation function is switched. In other words, the invention according to claim 4 can make it difficult for the player to feel that the switching of the loss compensation function is abrupt, and thus can reduce the distrust of the switching of the loss compensation function.

  The gaming machine according to the present invention displays information on the operation of the loss compensation function when the loss compensation function is switched, so that the player can easily recognize the current state of the loss compensation function and the insurance function. Can give interest about.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[Composition of gaming machine]
First, an overview of the gaming machine will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is a front view showing an overview of the lamp unit 53 of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is a front view showing an overview of the gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 4, the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes a main body frame 12 having an opening 12a formed on the front surface, various components disposed inside the opening 12a in the main body frame 12, and a main body frame. The door 11 is pivotally attached to the front of the door 12 so as to be openable and closable. As shown in FIG. 1, this door 11 is for closing the opening 12a from the front, and a game is normally performed in the closed state. On the front surface of the main body frame 12, an upper plate 20, a lower plate 22, a firing handle 26, and the like are disposed. Furthermore, a ball lending operation panel 28 and an insurance function button 27 are provided on the front surface of the lower portion of the door 11. This ball lending operation panel 28 has a ball lending button for inputting a ball lending instruction, a return button for inputting an instruction for returning a card from the card unit 150 (see FIG. 4), and a card unit 150 (see FIG. 4). A display LED for displaying the valuable value information of the inserted card is provided.

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

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

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

  As described above, in this embodiment, by providing display means such as the liquid crystal display device 32 behind the game board 14, for example, a game nail planting area, a game object such as an accessory, or a decoration member can be enlarged. In addition, the degree of freedom in layout can be further increased.

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

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

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

  A lamp unit 53 is provided on the lower left side of the game board 14. As shown in FIG. 3, the lamp unit 53 includes a special symbol display 35, a normal symbol display 33, special symbol hold lamps 34a to 34d, normal symbol hold lamps 50a to 50d, and round number indicators 51a to 51d. Is provided.

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

  Below the special symbol indicator 35, a normal symbol indicator 33 is provided. The normal symbol display 33 is composed of two display lamps, and these display lamps are alternately lit and extinguished so as to be variably displayed as normal symbols.

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

  Below the normal symbol display 33, normal symbol holding lamps 50a to 50d are provided. As will be described later, the normal symbol hold lamps 50a to 50d display the number of executions of the fluctuation display of the normal symbol held by turning on or off (so-called “hold number”, “hold number related to normal symbols”). . Similar to the special symbol, when the execution of the fluctuation display of the normal symbol is held once, the normal symbol holding lamp 50a is turned on.

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

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

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

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

  An overview of the gaming machine 10 will be further described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, on the gaming board 14 of the gaming machine 10, there are two guide rails 30 (30a and 30b), a stage 55, passing gates 54a and 54b, a stage 57, a starting port 25, a shutter 40, and a grand prize. Game members such as the mouth 39 and the general winning openings 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d are provided. Further, a speaker 46 is provided on the upper portion of the door 11. An insurance function button 27 is provided at the lower part of the door 11.

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

  The two guide rails 30 provided on the left side of the game board 14 are composed of an outer rail 30a that partitions (defines) the game area 15 and an inner rail 30b disposed inside the outer rail 30a. . The launched game ball is guided by a guide rail 30 provided on the game board 14 and moves to the upper part of the game board 14, and the plurality of game nails (not shown) and the game board 14 are provided. The game area 15 of the game board 14 flows downward while changing the advancing direction due to the collision with the stages 55, 57 and the like.

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

  A winning area is provided in the start opening 25 described above. This winning area includes a start winning ball sensor 116 (see FIG. 7). When a game medium such as a game ball is detected by the start winning ball sensor 116, it is determined that the game ball has won. When the game ball wins, the special symbol display by the special symbol display 35 is started. Also, when a game ball wins during the special symbol variation display, the special symbol variation display based on the winning of the game ball to the start opening 25 is executed until the special symbol during the variation display is stopped and displayed ( Start) is put on hold. Thereafter, when the special symbol that has been variably displayed is stopped and displayed, the variably displayed suspended special symbol is started. Note that an upper limit is set for the number of times the execution of the special symbol variable display is suspended. For example, the special symbol variable display is suspended up to four times. Thus, the game board 14 is an example of a game board having a game area in which a game ball launched by the player's launch operation rolls.

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

  Passage gates 54 a and 54 b are provided on both the left and right sides of the approximate center of the game board 14. The passing gates 54a and 54b are provided with passing ball sensors 114 and 115 (see FIG. 7) described later. The passing ball sensors 114 and 115 detect that the game ball has passed through the passing gates 54a and 54b. When the passing ball sensors 114 and 115 detect the passage of the game ball, the normal symbol display is started on the normal symbol display 33, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the normal symbol change display is stopped. .

  When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed with a predetermined symbol, the blade members (so-called normal electric accessories) provided on the left and right sides of the start port 25 are changed from the closed state to the open state, and the game ball is placed in the start port 25. Becomes easier to enter. In addition, when a predetermined time has elapsed after the blade member is opened, the blade member is closed to make it difficult for the game ball to enter the start opening 25. As described above, a game in which a normal symbol is displayed in a variable manner and then stopped and the open / closed state of the blade member varies depending on the result is referred to as a “normal symbol game”.

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

  The big prize opening 39 is provided with a shutter 40 that can be opened and closed on the front side (front side). The shutter 40 is driven so as to be in an open state in which a game ball can be easily received when a special numerical symbol is stopped and displayed as a special symbol on the special symbol display 35 and the gaming state is shifted to the jackpot gaming state. . As a result, the special winning opening 39 is in an open state (first state) where the game ball can be easily received.

  On the other hand, the special winning opening 39 provided on the rear side (rear side) of the shutter 40 has an area (not shown) having a count sensor 104 (see FIG. 7), and a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 10) or the shutter 40 is driven to the open state until a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses. When a condition for winning a predetermined number of game balls in the grand prize opening 39 or elapse of a predetermined time is satisfied in the open state, the shutter 40 is driven so as to be in a closed state in which it is difficult to accept the game balls. . As a result, the special winning opening 39 is in a closed state in which it is difficult to accept a game ball (second state). It should be noted that from the open state (first state) in which the grand prize opening 39 is easy to accept game balls to the closed state (second state) in which the grand prize opening 39 is difficult to accept game balls. This game is called a round game. Accordingly, the shutter 40 is opened during the round game and is closed between the round games. A round game is counted as the number of rounds such as “1” round and “2” round. For example, the first round game may be referred to as the first round and the second round as the second round.

  Subsequently, the shutter 40 driven from the open state to the closed state (second state) is again in the open state on condition that the game ball received in the special winning opening 39 in the open state has passed the count sensor 104. Driven by. In other words, it is possible to continue to the next round game on condition that the game ball received by the special winning opening 39 in the opened state of the shutter 40 has passed through the count sensor 104. A game from the first round game until the end of the (final) round game that cannot continue to the next round game is called a special game.

  During execution of the special game, the number of rounds (the maximum number of continuous rounds) from the first round number to the last round game when the most round game is continued differs depending on the special symbols that are stopped and displayed. For example, in this embodiment, when the number symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 35 is 64, the maximum number of continuous rounds is 15 and the number symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 35 is 21. In this case, the maximum number of continuation rounds is 2 rounds. When the number symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 35 is 50, the maximum number of continuation rounds is 2. The maximum number of continuous rounds is not limited to 2 rounds or 15 rounds. For example, the maximum number of continuous rounds is selected from “1” to “15” rounds by lottery by the round number lottery means (the main control circuit 60 including the main CPU 66 (see FIG. 7)). Also good.

  In addition, when game balls have won or passed through the specific areas and the general areas in the general winning ports 56a to 56d and the large winning port 39, the number of game balls set in advance according to the types of the respective winning ports is set. When the upper plate 20 is filled with game balls, the upper plate 20 is paid out to the lower plate 22.

  When it is determined that a winning is made at the start opening 25 described above, a predetermined number of game balls are paid out to the upper plate 20 via the payout opening 21 according to the type of each winning port, and the upper plate When 20 is filled with a game ball, it is paid out to the lower tray 22. The game ball paid out to the upper plate 20 is guided to the launching device 130 (see FIG. 7) while being temporarily stored on the upper plate 20, and drives the launch solenoid (not shown), thereby playing the game board 14. The game area 15 is launched.

  In the present embodiment, a liquid crystal display device has been described as an example of a means for producing effects, but the present invention is not limited to this. The means for performing the production may be a plasma display, a rear projection display, a CRT display, a lamp, a speaker, a movable accessory, or the like.

  A card unit 150 is installed on the left side of the gaming machine 10. This card unit 150 includes a card slot 151 for inserting a card in which valuable value information is recorded, a reader / writer (not shown) for reading / writing information from / into the card inserted into the card slot 151, and a lending ball to be lent at one time. A unit setting button 152 for setting the number is provided, and a unit display panel 153 for displaying units of valuable value information to be exchanged for the number of lent balls lent out at one time.

  When the player inserts a card into the card slot 151, the valuable information recorded on the card is read, and the read valuable information is displayed on the display LED of the ball lending operation panel 28. For example, when valuable value information corresponding to 5000 yen is stored in the card, “50” is displayed on the display LED.

  Any one of 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 is lit on the unit display panel 153. These numbers are switched every time the unit setting button 152 is pressed. For example, when the number “500” is lit up, the ball lending button on the ball lending operation panel 28 is pressed once to lend a game ball equivalent to 500 yen to the player. When the number “” is lit up, the ball lending button on the ball lending operation panel 28 is pressed once to lend a game ball equivalent to 300 yen to the player. Specifically, the game ball exchanged for the valuable value information is paid out to the upper plate 20 by the payout device 128 (see FIG. 7) by operating the ball lending button on the ball lending operation panel 28. Depending on the rented game ball, the valuable value information of the card and the display mode of the display LED of the ball lending operation panel 28 are updated. For example, valuable value information corresponding to 5000 yen is stored in the card, and when lending game balls worth 500 yen at a time to a player, a ball lending button on the lending operation panel 28 (see FIG. 1). By pressing once, the game ball equivalent to 500 yen is lent to the player, the valuable value information of the card is updated to valuable information equivalent to 4500 yen, and “45” is displayed on the display LED. Is done.

  FIG. 5 is a plan view showing a moving path of the game ball in the upper plate 20. The surface of the upper plate 20 is a spiral downward inclined surface so as to go around the left side of the upper plate 20 from the right side portion on the near side of the upper plate 20 toward the right side portion on the inner side of the upper plate 20. . Moreover, the discharge outlet 21 is arrange | positioned at the left side part of the back side of the upper plate | plate 20, and the launching apparatus 130 (refer FIG. 7) is arrange | positioned at the right side part of the back side of the upper plate | plate 20. As a result, as shown in FIG. 5, the game ball supplied from the payout port 21 moves so as to move up the slope on the near side of the upper plate 20, but eventually moves down along the slope due to its own weight. Then, it passes through the left side on the back side of the upper plate 20, moves to the right side in a state of being aligned in a row on the back side of the upper plate 20, and moves to a launch solenoid (not shown) of the launch device 130 (see FIG. 7). Sent. In addition, a ball removal lever 23 is provided on the upper right side of the upper plate 20. By sliding the ball removal lever 23, the game ball temporarily stored in the upper plate 20 is transferred to the lower plate 22.

  FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C are plan views showing the configuration near the back side of the upper plate 20. FIG.6 (d) is a side view which shows the structure of the collection apparatus seen from the moving direction of the game ball. The upper right portion of the upper plate 20 is raised with respect to the bottom surface, and the collecting device 500 is installed inside the raised portion. The collection device 500 includes a collection solenoid 501 and a slider 510. A hole 520 is formed at the right end of the upper plate 20, and the game ball on the upper plate 20 moves along the inclination by its own weight, and finally passes through the hole 520 to form a firing solenoid (not shown). ). Further, a slider 510 is installed on the upstream side in the moving direction of the game ball with respect to the hole 520, and a collecting solenoid 501 is connected to the slider 510. As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6D, the slider 510 is formed with a groove 510a enough to accommodate one game ball. The slider 510 is installed so as to be slidable in a direction perpendicular to the slider 510 and is driven in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the game ball by the collecting solenoid 501. Further, a collection sensor 550 is provided on the right back side of the slider 510 in the main body of the gaming machine 10. The collection sensor 550 is formed in a leaf spring shape with a conductive metal.

  FIG. 6A shows a normal state in which the collecting solenoid 501 is not driven, and the slider 510 is disposed so that the groove 510a is integrated with the transport path of the game ball. As a result, the game ball on the upper plate 20 moves to the hole 520. FIG. 6B shows a collection state in which the collection solenoid 501 is driven. A portion of the groove 510a in the slider 510 protrudes into the main body of the gaming machine 10, and a portion without the groove 510a in the slider 510 conveys the game ball. Located on the road. At this time, when the slider 510 moves, a part of the slider 510 comes into contact with the collection sensor 550, so that the collection sensor 550 is elastically deformed. When the movement of the slider 510 is completed, the collection sensor 550 returns to the original state, and the convex portion of the collection sensor 550 enters the groove 510a. At this time, the collection sensor 550 generates an output signal by contact with the game ball and transmits it to the payout / launch control circuit 126. Further, the game ball in the groove 510a is pushed out of the groove 510a by the collection sensor 550, and moves from the groove 510a to a collecting device (not shown). In the state shown in FIG. 6B, the game balls on the conveyance path are simultaneously blocked by the slider 510, but a plurality of game balls have moved to the hole 520 side before that. The supply of the game ball to the firing solenoid (not shown) is continued. Then, after the game ball in the groove 510a moves, the collection solenoid 501 is driven, and the slider 510 moves to return the groove 510a to the conveyance path as shown in FIG. 6C, and FIG. Return to the state shown in. When the collection solenoid 501 is driven so as to be in the state shown in FIG. 6B, the game ball immediately after the game ball is set at the bullet ball position by the firing solenoid (not shown) The collection solenoid 501 is driven during a short period of stoppage. Thus, by driving the collecting solenoid 501, a game ball is collected as a condition for operating the insurance function described later, instead of so-called insurance payment.

  In the configuration shown in FIG. 6, one game ball is collected by driving the collecting solenoid 501 once. However, the present invention is not limited to this, for example, the length of the groove 510 a of the slider 510. It is also possible to collect two or more game balls by driving the collection solenoid 501 once, for two or three game balls. Furthermore, a plurality of collecting devices 500 may be provided along the conveyance path so that the number of balls that can be collected simultaneously can be set.

[Electric configuration of gaming machine]
A control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment.

  The main control circuit 60 includes a main CPU 66 (game execution control means, loss compensation operation control means), a main ROM (read only memory) 68, and a main RAM (read / write memory) 70, as shown in FIG. The main control circuit 60 controls the progress of the game.

  The main CPU 66 includes a register and a reset terminal 66a. The main CPU 66 is connected to a main ROM 68, a main RAM 70, and the like, and has a function of executing various processes according to a program stored in the main ROM 68. When the reset terminal 66a of the main CPU 66 receives a reset signal, a reset process is executed.

  In the main ROM 68, a program for controlling the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the main CPU 66 is stored, and in addition, various tables are also stored. Thus, the main ROM 68 functions as various storage means.

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

  The main RAM 70 includes a control state flag, a region passing flag, a gaming state flag, a jackpot determination random number counter, a jackpot symbol determination random number counter, a missed symbol determination random number counter, a reach pattern selection random number counter, and an effect condition selection random number counter. , Grand prize opening number counter, Grand prize opening counter, Round number display counter, Round number display effect start counter, Wait time timer, Grand prize opening time timer, Data indicating the number of reserved symbols related to special symbols, Normal Data indicating the number of reserved symbols relating to symbols, a variation counter, an insurance function flag, a prize ball counter, data for supplying a command to the sub-control circuit 200 described later, variables, and the like are positioned.

  The control state flag indicates the control state of the special symbol game. The specific area passing flag is for determining whether or not the game ball has passed the specific area. The game state flag indicates a game state to be executed.

  The jackpot determining random number counter is for determining the jackpot of a special symbol. The jackpot symbol determination random number counter is for determining a special symbol to be stopped when a special symbol jackpot is determined. The random symbol counter for losing symbol determination is for determining a special symbol to be stopped and displayed when it is not a big hit. The reach pattern selection random number counter is for determining a reach pattern. The production condition selection random number counter is for determining a production variation pattern. The round number display effect start counter is for determining whether or not to display on the round number display during the normal game. These counters are stored and updated so that the main CPU 66 sequentially increases “1”, and various functions of the main CPU 66 are executed by extracting random numbers from the counters at a predetermined timing. In the present embodiment, such a random number counter is provided, and the main CPU 66 stores and updates the random number counter so as to increase “1” according to a program. You may comprise so that an apparatus like a generator may be provided.

  The waiting time timer is for synchronizing processing executed in the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200. The special prize opening time timer is for measuring the time for driving the shutter 40 and opening the special prize opening 39. The power supply elapsed time timer is for measuring the elapsed time after power is supplied to the pachinko gaming machine 10. Note that the timer in this embodiment is stored and updated in the main RAM 70 so as to be subtracted by the predetermined cycle at a predetermined cycle. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the CPU itself may include a timer. .

  The big prize opening number-of-times counter indicates the number of times the big prize opening is opened (so-called round number) in the big hit gaming state. The grand prize winning prize counter indicates the number of game balls that have won the big winning prize during one round and passed through the count sensor 104. Further, the data indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the special symbol is that when the game ball is won at the starting port 25, but the special symbol variation display cannot be executed, the special symbol game is suspended. This indicates the number of times the symbol game is held. Furthermore, the data indicating the number of reserved symbols related to the normal symbol is that when the game ball has passed through the passing gates 54a and 54b, but the normal symbol variation display cannot be executed, the normal symbol game start is reserved, but the It shows the number of times the normal symbol game is held. The round number display counter indicates the number of rounds displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32.

  The variation counter indicates the number of lotteries since the previous jackpot. The insurance function flag indicates whether the insurance function is on or off. The collected ball counter indicates the number of game balls (value) collected at the time of lending a ball to activate the insurance function. The prize ball counter indicates the number of prize balls.

  The main control circuit 60 also has a command for a reset clock pulse generating circuit 62 that generates a clock pulse of a predetermined frequency, an initial reset circuit 64 that generates a reset signal when the power is turned on, and a sub-control circuit 200 described later. IC for serial communication 72 is provided. The reset clock pulse generation circuit 62, the initial reset circuit 64, and the serial communication IC 72 are connected to the main CPU 66. The reset clock pulse generation circuit 62 generates a clock pulse every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds) in order to execute a system timer interrupt process to be described later.

  The initial reset circuit 64 includes a capacitor and a watchdog timer, and transmits a reset signal to the main CPU 66 when the voltage applied to the capacitor reaches a certain value. Further, the initial reset circuit 64 receives a predetermined control signal from the main CPU 66 and discharges it in order to release the voltage applied to the capacitor.

  The serial communication IC 72 is connected to the main CPU 66, the sub control circuit 200, and the payout / launch control circuit 126, and includes a sub control board buffer 72a and a payout / fire control circuit buffer 72b.

  Also, various devices are connected to the main control circuit 60. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the count sensor 104, the general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, 112, the passing ball sensors 114, 115, A start winning ball sensor 116, an ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118, a large winning opening solenoid 120, a backup clear switch 124, and an insurance function switch 127 are connected.

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

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

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

  The start winning ball sensor 116 is provided at the start port 25. The start winning ball sensor 116 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60 when a game ball passes through the start port 25.

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

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

  The backup clear switch 124 is built in the pachinko gaming machine 10 and has a function of clearing backup data in the event of a power interruption or the like in accordance with the operation of the game hall manager. For example, the result data is reset by turning off the casing.

  The insurance function switch 127 is composed of a switch circuit that is turned on / off in response to an operation of the insurance function button 27 (see FIG. 1) by the player or an output signal from the payout / launch control circuit 126. 60. As described above, the insurance function button 27 is operated to determine whether the insurance function is on or off.

  The main control circuit 60 is connected to a payout / launch control circuit 126. The payout / launch control circuit 126 is connected to a payout device 128 that pays out game balls, a launch device 130 that fires game balls, a card unit 150, and a sub-control circuit 200.

  The payout / launch control circuit 126 receives a winning ball control command supplied from the main control circuit 60 and a ball lending permission signal supplied from the card unit 150, and issues a ball lending control signal based on the ball lending permission signal. To the payout device 128 to pay out the game ball. The ball lending permission signal indicates the number of game balls to be lent. The ball lending permission signal is output when a card is set in the card unit 150 and the ball lending button is pressed.

  Further, the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a control of launching a game ball by supplying a launch signal to the launch device 130. The payout / launch control circuit 126, as will be described in detail later, instructs to display a warning when a predetermined number of game balls to be collected as conditions for operating the insurance function cannot be collected. A signal is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 200, or an output signal for turning off the insurance function switch 127 is transmitted.

  In addition, the launching device 130 includes a device for launching a game ball such as the launching solenoid and the touch sensor described above. When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and is rotated in the clockwise direction, electric power is supplied to the firing solenoid according to the rotational angle, and the game ball stored in the upper plate 20 is fired. The game board 14 is sequentially fired by the solenoid.

  Further, a lamp 74 is connected to the main control circuit 60. The main control circuit 60 supplies a lamp (LED) control signal to the lamp 74. The lamp 74 includes incandescent bulbs, LEDs, and the like. Specifically, the special symbol holding lamps 34a to 34d, the normal symbol holding lamps 50a to 50d, the special symbol indicator 35 (7 segment LED), and the normal symbol indicator 33. (Display lamp).

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

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

  The sub control circuit 200 is related to the sub CPU 206, the program ROM 208, the work RAM 210, the display control circuit 250 that performs display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, the sound control circuit 230 that performs control related to sound generated from the speaker 46, the lamp and the movable accessory. A drive circuit 240 that performs control is provided. The sub-control circuit 200 executes an effect according to the progress of the game in accordance with a command from the main control circuit 60.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  The drive circuit 240 includes a drive circuit 242 and a decoration data ROM 244 and is connected to the sub CPU 206. The light emission of the lamp 132 is controlled via the drive circuit.

  The display control circuit 250 includes an image data processor (hereinafter referred to as VDP) 212, an image data ROM 216 that stores various image data, a D / A converter 218 that converts image data as an image signal, and a reset signal when the power is turned on. The initial reset circuit 220 is generated.

  The VDP 212 described above is connected to the sub CPU 206, the image data ROM 216, the D / A converter 218, and the initial reset circuit 220.

  The VDP 212 includes a so-called sprite circuit, a screen circuit, a pallet circuit, and the like, and is a device that can perform various processes for causing the liquid crystal display device 32 to display an image. That is, the VDP 212 performs display control for the liquid crystal display device 32. Further, the VDP 212 includes a storage medium (for example, a video RAM) as a buffer for displaying an image on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. By storing the image data in a predetermined storage area of the storage medium, an image is displayed on the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32 at a predetermined timing.

  Various image data such as background image data and effect image data are separately stored in the image data ROM 216. Of course, related image data indicating a related image is also stored.

  The VDP 212 reads various image data such as background image data, effect image data, and insurance function-related image data from the image data ROM 216 in accordance with an image display command supplied from the sub CPU 206 and displays the read image data on the liquid crystal display device 32. Generate image data. The VDP 212 superimposes the generated image data in order from the image data located at the rear, stores the image data in a buffer, and supplies the data to the D / A converter 218 at a predetermined timing. The D / A converter 218 converts the image data as an image signal and supplies the image signal to the liquid crystal display device 32, thereby causing the liquid crystal display device 32 to display an image.

  The audio control circuit 230 includes a sound source IC 232 that controls audio, an audio data ROM 234 that stores various audio data, and an amplifier 236 (hereinafter referred to as AMP) for amplifying audio signals.

  The sound source IC 232 is connected to the sub CPU 206, the initial reset circuit 220, the audio data ROM 234, and the AMP 236. The sound source IC 232 controls sound generated from the speaker 46.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  In step S15, normal symbol control processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts a random number value according to the detection signals from the passing ball sensors 114 and 115, refers to the normal symbol winning table stored in the main ROM 68, and determines whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won. And processing for storing the result of the determination in the main RAM 70 is performed. If this process ends, the process moves to step S16.

  In step S16, a symbol display device control process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether the special symbol display unit 35 and the normal symbol display unit 33 are in accordance with the result of the special symbol control process stored in the main RAM 70 in steps S14 and S15 and the result of the normal symbol control process. Then, a process for storing a control signal for driving the round number display 51 in the main RAM 70 is performed. For example, when driving the special symbol display 35, the main CPU 66 transmits a drive signal to the special symbol display 35. The special symbol display 35 displays the identification symbol in a variable manner and a stop manner based on the received drive signal. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S17.

  In step S17, game information data generation processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of generating game information data to be transmitted to a stand computer or a hall computer (not shown) and storing it in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to step S18.

  In step S18, symbol reserved number data generation processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 detects detection signals from the start winning ball sensor 116 and the passing ball sensors 114 and 115 detected in the switch input detection process (FIG. 9, step S46) in the system timer interruption process described later, The special symbol holding lamps 34a to 34d and the normal symbol holding lamps 50a to 50d are driven based on the update result of the holding number data stored in the main RAM 70 that is updated in accordance with the execution of the special symbol and normal symbol variation display. The control signal for storing is stored in the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S19.

  In step S19, port output processing is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of outputting a control signal stored in the main RAM 70 to each port in the above steps. Specifically, the special symbol hold lamps 34a to 34d (see FIG. 3), the special symbol display 35 (7 segment LED, see FIG. 3), and the normal symbol display 33 (display LED, see FIG. 3) are lit. LED power supply (common signal) and solenoid power supply for driving the solenoid are supplied. Further, the update data of the number of pending is transmitted to the sub control circuit 200. If this process ends, the process moves to step S20.

  In step S20, a storage / game state command control process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether a certain change flag or a short-time state flag is set in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70, and determines that a certain change flag or a short-time state flag is set. Processing for generating a command and transmitting it to the sub-control circuit 200 is performed. If this process ends, the process moves to step S21.

  In step S21, an effect control command output control process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs an output control process for outputting an effect control command, an insurance function command, a payout command, a capture command, and the like to the sub-control circuit 200. If this process ends, the process moves to step S22.

  In step S22, a payout process is performed. In this process, as will be described in detail later, the main CPU 66 checks whether or not a game ball has won a prize winning port 39, a start opening 25, and general winning openings 56a to 56d. The corresponding prize ball payout control signal is transmitted to the payout / firing control circuit 126. In the present embodiment, 15 game balls are awarded as winning balls when winning the grand prize opening 39, and 3 as winning balls when winning at the starting opening 25, when winning the general winning openings 56a to 56d. 10 game balls are paid out to the player as prize balls. If this process ends, the process moves to step S10. In this embodiment, an example of the number of winning balls is described, but the present invention is not limited to this.

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

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

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

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

  In step S44, an input port reading process is performed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 performs processing for reading detection signals from the respective ports. More specifically, it is determined whether there is a detection signal from the insurance function switch 127. If it is determined that there is a detection signal, the main CPU 66 is a value indicating ON in the insurance function flag stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. (For example, 1) is set. Further, the main CPU 66 sets an insurance operation command in the main RAM 70 when the health function flag is on. This command is output to the sub CPU 206 by the process of step S21. When the main CPU 66 determines that there is a detection signal from the insurance function switch 127 when the value indicating ON is set in the insurance function flag, the value indicating OFF in the insurance function flag (for example, 0). Set. When the main CPU 66 receives an end signal from the card unit 150, the main CPU 66 sets a value (eg, 0) indicating OFF in the insurance function flag. Further, when the main CPU 66 receives the firing completion signal, the main CPU 66 increments the value of the firing ball number counter by one. The firing completion signal is a signal given from the payout / launch control circuit 126 every time a game ball is fired, and the fired ball number counter is formed in the main RAM 70 and counts the number of fired balls after winning the jackpot, It is reset when the content of is switched. When this process ends, the process proceeds to step S46. Thus, the insurance function switch 127 (insurance function button 27) is an example of a selection unit.

  In step S46, a switch input detection process is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 detects the detection signals from the switches such as the count sensor 104, the general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, 112, the passing ball sensors 114, 115, the starting winning ball sensor 116, and the result. In response, a process of updating the prize ball counter (this counter is set in the main RAM 70. The initial value is zero) is performed. The prize ball counter indicates the number of prize balls based on the detection signal detected in step S46 of the current cycle. If this process ends, the process moves to step S47.

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

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

[Special symbol control processing]
The subroutine executed in step S14 in FIG. 8 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 10, the numerical values drawn from step S72 to step S81 indicate control state flags corresponding to those steps, and one step corresponding to the numerical value is determined according to the numerical value of the control state flag. Will be executed and the special symbol game will proceed.

  First, as shown in FIG. 10, a process for loading a control state flag is executed (step S71). In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to step S72.

  Note that in steps S72 to S81, which will be described later, the main CPU 66 determines whether to execute various processes in each step based on the value of the control state flag, as will be described later. This control state flag indicates the game state of the special symbol game, and enables one of the processes from step S72 to step S81 to be executed. In addition, the main CPU 66 executes processing in each step at a predetermined timing determined in accordance with a waiting time timer set for each step. Before reaching the predetermined timing, the process ends without executing the process in each step, and another subroutine is executed. Of course, the system timer interrupt process is also executed at a predetermined cycle.

  In step S72, a special symbol memory check process is executed. Details will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to step S73.

  In step S73, a special symbol variation time management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets the value (02) indicating the special symbol display time management to the control state flag when the control state flag is the value (01) indicating the special symbol variation time management. Set the waiting time after confirmation (for example, 1 second) in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the process of step S74 is executed after the waiting time after determination has elapsed. If this process ends, the process moves to step S74.

  In step S74, a special symbol display time management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 has a value (02) indicating that the control state flag indicates special symbol display time management, and whether or not a lottery for shifting to the big hit gaming state is won when the waiting time after determination has elapsed. Judging. In the case of winning, the main CPU 66 sets a value (03) indicating jackpot game start interval management in the control state flag, and sets a time (for example, 10 seconds) corresponding to the jackpot game start interval in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the jackpot game start interval has elapsed, it is set to execute the process of step S75. On the other hand, when not winning, the main CPU 66 sets a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S81. If this process ends, the process moves to step S75.

  In step S75, a jackpot game start interval management process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 has a value (03) indicating that the control status flag indicates the jackpot game start interval management, and when the time corresponding to the jackpot game start interval has elapsed, the main winnings read from the main ROM 68 are obtained. Data for opening the mouth 39 is stored in the main RAM 70. Then, in the process of step S19 in FIG. 8, the main CPU 66 reads the data for opening the big prize opening 39 stored in the main RAM 70, and sends a signal for opening the big prize opening 39 to the big prize opening solenoid. 120. As described above, the main CPU 66 and the like perform opening / closing control of the special winning opening 39. That is, one round game in which a predetermined advantageous gaming state (a gaming state from the open state where the big winning opening 39 easily accepts the game ball to the closed state where the big winning opening 39 hardly accepts the game ball) is provided a plurality of times. A jackpot game that may be repeated is executed.

  Further, the main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the special winning opening is being opened to the control state flag, and sets an upper opening limit time (for example, 30 seconds) to the special winning opening open timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S78. Further, the main CPU 66 assigns a predetermined number (for example, “15”) to the round number display counter in the main RAM 70. Further, the main CPU 66 uses the jackpot game execution time timer in the main RAM 70 to start measuring the jackpot game execution time. When this process ends, the process proceeds to step S77.

  In step S77, a waiting time management process before reopening the big winning opening is executed. In this processing, the main CPU 66 sets the special winning opening opening number counter when the control status flag is a value (06) indicating the waiting time management before the big winning opening reopening and the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed. The memory is updated so that “1” is increased. The main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the special winning opening is open in the control state flag. The main CPU 66 sets an opening upper limit time (for example, 30 seconds) in the big prize opening time timer. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S78. If this process ends, the process moves to step S78.

  In step S78, a special winning opening opening process is executed. In this process, when the control status flag is a value (04) indicating that the big prize opening is being opened, the main CPU 66 has passed the condition that the big prize opening prize counter is “10” or more, and the opening upper limit time ( It is determined whether or not any of the conditions that the big prize opening time timer is “0” is satisfied. The main CPU 66 updates a variable positioned in the main RAM 70 in order to close the special winning opening 39 when any of the conditions is satisfied. The main CPU 66 sets a value (05) indicating monitoring of the winning ball remaining ball in the control state flag. The main CPU 66 sets the special ball remaining ball monitoring time (for example, 1 second) in the waiting time timer. That is, it is set so that the process of step S79 is executed after the winning ball residual ball monitoring time has elapsed. Note that the main CPU 66 does not execute the above-described processing when none of the conditions is satisfied. If this process ends, the process moves to step S79.

  In step S79, a special winning opening residual ball monitoring process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 has a value (05) indicating that the control state flag indicates monitoring of the winning ball in the winning prize mouth, and the count sensor 104 corresponding to the winning prize port 39 when the remaining winning ball in the winning prize mouth monitoring time has elapsed. It is determined whether or not a condition that the game ball has not passed through or a condition that the special winning opening opening number counter is a predetermined number or more (the final round) is satisfied. When any of the conditions is satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (07) indicating the jackpot game end interval in the control state flag, and sets a time corresponding to the jackpot game end interval in the waiting time timer. That is, after the time corresponding to the jackpot game end interval elapses, the setting of step S80 is executed.

  On the other hand, when neither condition is satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (06) indicating the waiting time management before reopening of the big winning opening to the control state flag. Further, the main CPU 66 updates the storage so that “1” is subtracted from the round number display counter stored in the main RAM 70. Further, the main CPU 66 sets a time corresponding to the interval between rounds in the waiting time timer. That is, after the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed, the setting of step S78 is performed. If this process ends, the process moves to step S80.

  In step S80, a jackpot game end interval process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game when the control state flag is a value (07) indicating the jackpot game end interval and the time corresponding to the jackpot game end interval has elapsed. Set to control status flag. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S81. In the case of a probable change state or a short time state, a value corresponding to each of the game state flags is set.

  In step S81, a special symbol game end process is executed. In this process, as will be described in detail later, when the control state flag is a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game, the main CPU 66 provides data indicating the number of reserved symbols relating to the special symbol related to the current special symbol game. The memory is updated so that “1” is decreased. As a result, the data in the special symbol storage area is updated, that is, the number of reserved items is updated. Subsequently, the main CPU 66 executes a process of setting a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check as a control state flag. That is, it is set to execute the process of step S72. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  As described above, the special symbol game is executed by setting the control state flag. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, the main CPU 66 sets the control status flag to “00”, “01”, “02”, when the jackpot determination result is out of order when the game is not in the jackpot gaming state. By setting “08” in order, the processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S81 shown in FIG. 10 is executed at a predetermined timing. Further, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag in the order of “00”, “01”, “02”, “03” when the result of the big hit determination is a big hit when it is not the big hit gaming state, The processing of step S72, step S73, step S74, and step S75 shown in FIG. 10 is executed at a predetermined timing, and control to the big hit gaming state is executed. Furthermore, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flags in order of “04”, “05”, and “06” when the control to the big hit gaming state is executed, thereby performing step S78 shown in FIG. The processing of step S79 and step S77 is executed at a predetermined timing, and the jackpot game is executed. When the jackpot game end condition is satisfied, “04”, “05”, “07”, “08” are set in this order, so that the processing from step S78 to step S81 shown in FIG. It will be executed at the timing and the jackpot game will be finished. Also, in this embodiment, there was no game ball passing to a specific area until a predetermined time had elapsed (punk, in this embodiment, one ball is also played in the big prize opening 39 during the big hit game. It is also a jackpot game ending condition that the round game of the maximum number of consecutive rounds (in this embodiment, “15” rounds or “2” rounds) is finished).

[Special symbol memory check processing]
The subroutine executed in step S72 in FIG. 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 11, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the control state flag is a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check (step S101). If it is determined that the control state flag is a value indicating a special symbol memory check, the process proceeds to step S102. If it is determined that the control state flag is not a value indicating a special symbol memory check, this subroutine is terminated. To do.

  In step S <b> 102, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the number of reserved items related to special symbols in the stored number data is “0”. In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that the number of reserved symbols related to the special symbol stored in the main RAM 70 is “0”, the process proceeds to step S112, and the data indicating the number of reserved data is not “0”. If it is determined, the process proceeds to step S104.

  In step S104, a process of setting a value (01) indicating special symbol variation time management as a control state flag is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a value indicating special symbol variation time management in the control state flag. If this process ends, the process moves to step S105.

  In step S105, a jackpot determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 selects the jackpot determination value stored in the special symbol determination table if there is a start memory. Then, the main CPU 66 refers to the random number value extracted at the time of starting winning and the jackpot determination value. That is, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to enter a big hit gaming state advantageous to the player.

  In step S106, a symbol determination process is executed. In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that the jackpot is determined in step S105, the main CPU 66 extracts the jackpot symbol determining random number value extracted at the time of starting winning and refers to the special symbol determination table for determining the jackpot symbol. Based on the random number value, a special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 35 is determined, and data indicating the special symbol is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. If the jackpot is not determined to be a big win (missing), the main RAM 70 stores data indicating the special symbol determined to be the special symbol to be stopped and displayed on the special symbol display 35. When this process ends, the process proceeds to step S107.

  Note that the symbol designation command stored in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 by the process of step S106 is stopped from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S21 of FIG. Supplied as

  In step S107, a variation pattern determination process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts a rendering condition selection random value. The main CPU 66 selects a special symbol variation pattern command from the variation pattern table stored in the main ROM 68 based on the special symbol determined in step S106. Specifically, a special symbol variation pattern command corresponding to the special symbol determined in step S106 is selected and stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70.

  The special symbol variation pattern command for effect stored in this way is supplied as a variation pattern designation command from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 by the process of step S21 in FIG. The sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 executes an effect display according to the received variation pattern designation command. When this process ends, the process proceeds to step S109.

  In step S109, a process of setting a variation time corresponding to the determined variation pattern for production in the waiting time timer is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the variation time corresponding to the effect variation pattern determined by the process of step S107 from the table, and stores a value indicating the variation time in the waiting time timer. Then, a process of clearing the storage area in which the jackpot determination random number value used for the current variation display is stored is executed (step S111). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S112, a demonstration display process is executed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores a variable for supplying a demonstration display command to the sub control circuit 200 in the main RAM 70 in order to perform a demonstration display. As a result, the display of the demonstration screen is executed in the sub-control circuit 200. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Special symbol game end processing]
The special symbol game end process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S1000, a process of determining whether or not a big hit is made. In this process, when the control state flag is a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game, the main CPU 66 decreases the data indicating the number of reserved pieces related to the special symbol related to the current special symbol game by “1”. Update the memory. Subsequently, the main CPU 66 executes a process of setting a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check as a control state flag. Further, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not it is a big hit, and if it is determined that it is a big win, the process proceeds to step S1040, and if it is not determined to be a big hit, the process moves to step S1010.

  In step S1010, a process for determining whether or not the insurance function flag is ON is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the value of the insurance function flag stored in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 is a value indicating ON (for example, 1). If the main CPU 66 determines that the value of the insurance function flag is on, the process proceeds to step S1010-1, and if it is not determined that the value indicates on, the present subroutine is terminated.

  In step S1010-1, the main CPU 66 determines a condition that the firing ball number counter is 300 or more. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1010-2. If this condition is not satisfied, Proceed to step S1020.

  In step S1010-2, the main CPU 66 determines a condition that an insurance level counter (this counter is set in the main RAM 70. The initial value is 1) is 5. If this condition is satisfied, the main CPU 66 determines in step S1010-. If the condition is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1010-3.

  In step S1010-3, the main CPU 66 increments the value of the insurance level counter by one.

  In step S1010-4, the main CPU 66 changes the insurance content, that is, the loss compensation function. Specifically, the main CPU 66 changes the insurance content based on the insurance content change table (this table is stored in the main ROM 68) shown in FIG. First, the insurance content change table will be described.

  The insurance content change table defines five types of insurance content. Each insurance content consists of a level, the number of collections, the number of changes, and the number of payouts. The higher the level, the better the insurance content. When the number of game balls collected is collected and the identification information is changed by the number of times of change (that is, a lottery lottery is performed), the number of game balls is paid out.

  The main CPU 66 selects one insurance content from among the insurance content indicating a level equal to or lower than the value of the insurance level counter by random number lottery, and changes the insurance content by making it a new insurance content. The main CPU 66 sets the level indicated by the new insurance content, the number of collections, the number of changes, and the number of payouts in the main RAM 70. Hereinafter, the number of collections and the number of changes set in the main RAM 70 are also referred to as a reference collection number and the number of changes in the reference, and the number of payouts is also referred to as the number of insurance payouts. Further, the main CPU 66 controls the payout / launch control circuit 126 so as to return the reduced amount when the standard collection number decreases due to the change of the insurance content. Thereby, it is possible to prevent excessive collection of game balls.

  In step S <b> 1010-5, the main CPU 66 sets a change command related to the value of the insurance level counter, the level, the reference collection number, the reference variation number, and the insurance payout number in the main RAM 70. This change command is output to the payout / firing control circuit 126 and the sub CPU 206.

  In step S1010-6, the main CPU 66 resets the firing ball number counter. Thereafter, the main CPU 66 proceeds to step S1020.

  In step S1020, a process of adding 1 to the variation counter is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 adds 1 to the value of the variation counter stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. Thus, it can be recognized how many times the player has executed the identification information stop game by the value of the variation counter. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1030.

  In step S1030, a process for setting a variation count command is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores data based on the value of the variation counter stored in step S1020 in the variation count command stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The variation frequency command stored in the main RAM 70 is transmitted to the sub control circuit 200 in the process of step S21 in FIG. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S1040, a process for resetting the variation counter, the firing ball counter, and the insurance level counter is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of resetting (for example, setting 0) the values of the variation counter, the shot ball counter, and the insurance level counter stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. In this way, when a big hit is made, it is possible to rescue only the player who has not won the big hit for a predetermined period by resetting the variation counter, the shot ball counter, and the insurance level counter. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1050.

  In step S1050, the insurance function flag is turned off. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of turning off the insurance function flag stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 (for example, 0 is set). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Payout process]
The payout process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S1110, processing for determining whether or not the prize ball counter is 1 or more is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the value of the prize ball counter stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 is 1 or more. If the main CPU 66 determines that the value of the prize ball counter is 1 or more, the process proceeds to step S1115. If the value of the prize ball counter is not determined to be 1 or more, the process proceeds to step S1125.

  In step S1115, processing for setting a prize ball payout control signal is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets a prize ball payout control signal in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 based on the value of the prize ball counter. The set prize ball payout control signal is transmitted to the payout / firing control circuit 126 in the process of step S19 in FIG. The payout / firing control circuit 126 controls the payout device 128 so as to pay out the prize ball based on the received prize ball payout control signal. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1120.

  In step S1120, processing for resetting the value of the prize ball counter is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a predetermined setting to reset (set 0) the value of the prize ball counter stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1125.

  In step S1125, processing for determining whether or not the insurance function flag is on is performed. In this process, if the main CPU 66 determines that the value of the insurance function flag is a value indicating ON (for example, 1), the process proceeds to step S1130, and if the value is not determined to indicate ON, This subroutine ends.

  In step S1130, the main CPU 66 determines a condition that the value of the variation counter is equal to or greater than the reference variation count. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1130-1, and if this condition is not satisfied. Finishes the payout process.

  In step S1130-1, the main CPU 66 determines a condition that the value of the collected ball cumulative counter is equal to or greater than the reference collection number. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1135, and if this condition is not satisfied. Finishes the payout process.

  In step S1135, processing for setting an insurance ball payout control signal and an insurance ball payout control command is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets an insurance ball payout control signal and an insurance ball payout control command for paying out game balls for the number of insurance payouts. The set insurance ball payout control signal is transmitted to the payout / firing control circuit 126 in the process of step S19 in FIG. 8, and the insurance ball payout control command is output to the sub CPU 206 by the process of step S21. The payout / launch control circuit 126 controls the payout device 128 to pay out an insurance ball as a loss compensation based on the received insurance ball payout control signal. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1140.

  In step S1140, processing for setting a collected ball cumulative counter reset command is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets a command for resetting (setting 0) the value of the collected ball accumulation counter in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The set collected ball cumulative counter reset command is transmitted to the payout / firing control circuit 126 in the process of step S19 of FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1145.

  In step S1145, processing for resetting the variation counter is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of resetting the value of the variation counter stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 (for example, setting 0). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1150.

  In step S1150, a process for resetting the insurance function flag is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 performs a process of resetting an insurance function flag stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 (for example, setting 0).

  In step S1150-1, the main CPU 66 resets the insurance level counter and the firing ball number counter.

  In step S1155, processing for setting a payout command is performed. In this process, the main CPU 66 sets a payout command in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The set payout command is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 200 in the process of step S21 in FIG. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Payout main processing]
With reference to FIG. 14, the main payout process executed by the payout / launch control circuit 126 of the gaming machine 10 will be described. This process is repeatedly executed at a cycle of 1 msec (1 millisecond) in steps S1203 to S1212 described later by a system timer controlled by the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126.

  First, in step S1201, initialization setting when the gaming machine 10 is powered on is performed. Depending on the pressing state of the backup clear switch 124 when the power is turned on, if the backup clear switch 124 is not pressed, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs backup recovery processing (the program address executed before the power is turned off). If the backup clear switch 124 is pressed, the CPU of the payout / fire control circuit 126 initializes the work area of the RAM of the payout / fire control circuit 126, etc. Execute the initial setting process and restart the program. Also, a variable for storing the value of the abnormal notification monitoring timer and various variables such as an error notification flag are initialized ("0" is set). When this process ends, the process moves to a step S1202.

  In step S1202, it is determined whether 1 millisecond (msec) has elapsed. The CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 determines whether or not 1 msec has elapsed. When this determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S1203, and when it is NO, step S1202 is executed again.

  In step S1203, card unit communication processing is performed. When this process ends, the process moves to a step S1204.

  In step S1204, a count switch detection process is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 determines the output states of the prize ball count switch (not shown) and the ball lending count switch (not shown) included in the payout device 128 of the payout / fire control circuit 126. A check is made to detect whether or not a prize ball or a rental ball is currently being paid out. When this process ends, the process moves to a step S1205.

  In step S1205, error detection processing is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 checks whether there is any abnormality in the game ball payout path (not shown) and the payout device 128 (see FIG. 4) of the gaming machine 10, and if there is any abnormality. If it is detected. When this process ends, the process moves to a step S1206.

  In step S1206, a payout device driving process is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 confirms that no abnormality is detected in the game ball payout route (not shown), and when it is confirmed that there is no abnormality, the payout / fire control is performed. Data for paying out a predetermined number of game balls is set in variables stored in the RAM of the circuit 126 by controlling the payout device 128 (see FIG. 4). When this process ends, the process moves to a step S1207.

  In step S1207, a firing related signal detection process is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / firing control circuit 126 monitors the output state of the stop switch and the touch sensor included in the firing device 130 (see FIG. 4), and detects an output signal. When this process ends, the process moves to a step S1208.

  In step S1208, a firing drive process is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / fire control circuit 126 sets a fire solenoid (not shown) included in the fire device 130 (see FIG. 7) to a variable stored in the RAM of the payout / fire control circuit 126 for a predetermined time. Set the data for driving each time. When this process ends, the process moves to a step S1209.

  In step S1209, a ball lending control process is performed. In this process, as will be described in detail later, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 monitors the ball rental state of the game ball in the payout device 128 based on the ball rental permission signal. When this process ends, the process moves to a step S1210.

  In step S1210, a prize ball control process is performed. In this process, as will be described in detail later, the CPU of the payout / firing control circuit 126 monitors the payout state of the prize ball based on the prize ball payout command signal transmitted from the main control circuit 60 (see FIG. 7). Do. When this process ends, the process moves to a step S1211.

  In step S1211, error processing is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 displays the error information detected in step S1205 on an error display device (not shown) such as 7-segment provided in the payout / fire control circuit 126, for example. To do. When this process ends, the process moves to a step S1212.

  In step S1212, collection processing is performed. In this process, as will be described in detail later, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 drives the collection device 500 (see FIG. 6) and performs a process of collecting a predetermined number of game balls as operating conditions for the insurance function. . When this process ends, the process moves to a step S1213.

  In step S1213, output processing is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 controls the payout device 128 (see FIG. 7) stored in the RAM of the payout / fire control circuit 126 in step S1206 to pay out a predetermined number of game balls. Data for performing, and data for driving a firing solenoid (not shown) included in the launching device 130 (see FIG. 7), which is stored in the RAM of the payout / launch control circuit 126 in step S1208, every predetermined time Based on this, the game balls are paid out and fired by actually outputting data to the paying device 128 and the launching device 130. The payout / firing control circuit 126 monitors the launching operation by the launching device 130 and outputs a firing completion signal to the main CPU 66 each time a game ball is fired. When this process ends, the process returns to step S1202.

[Timer interrupt processing]
Further, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 may interrupt the payout main process and execute the timer interrupt process even when the payout main process is being executed. In this timer interruption process, a process is performed in which the input from the main control circuit 60 is input and stored in the RAM of the payout / firing control circuit 126, and the value of the flag or counter is updated based on the input command. For example, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 outputs, to the main CPU 66 and the sub CPU 206, a collected ball cumulative counter designation command related to the value of the collected ball cumulative counter in the timer interruption process. When the collected ball accumulation counter reset command is input from step S1140 in FIG. 13, a process of resetting the collected ball accumulation counter in the RAM of the payout / launch control circuit 126 is performed.

[Prize ball control processing]
The prize ball control process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S1300, a process is performed to determine whether or not a prize ball payout control signal has been received. In this process, if the CPU of the payout / firing control circuit 126 determines that it has received a prize ball payout control signal from the main control circuit 60, it moves to step S1310 and determines that a payout request command has been received. If not, this subroutine is terminated.

  In step S1310, a process for determining whether or not the insurance function flag is ON is performed. In this process, if the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 determines that the control signal with the value of the insurance function flag indicating ON (for example, 1) has been received from the main control circuit 60, the process proceeds to step S1330. If it is determined that the control signal has not been received, the process proceeds to step S1320.

  In step S1320, a prize ball payout process is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 transmits a payout control signal to the payout device 128 so as to pay out the number of game balls requested by the prize ball payout control signal, and further, the payout control signal. The payout device 128 monitors the payout state of the game balls to determine whether or not the number of game balls based on the number is supplied. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S1330, a process for determining whether or not the number is the reference collection number or more is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 has a collected value (collected ball cumulative counter value) indicating the number of collected game balls stored in the RAM of the payout / fire control circuit 126 equal to or greater than the reference collected number. It is determined whether or not. If the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 determines that the value of the collected ball cumulative counter is equal to or greater than the reference collected number, the process proceeds to step S1340, and the value of the collected ball cumulative counter is equal to or greater than the reference collected number. If not, the process moves to step S1350.

  In step S1340, processing for clearing the collection flag is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a process of storing a value (for example, 0) indicating that the value of the collection flag is off in the RAM of the payout / fire control circuit 126. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1320.

  In step S1350, processing for setting a collection flag is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a process of storing a value (for example, 1) indicating that the value of the collection flag is on in the RAM of the payout / fire control circuit 126. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1320.

[Lending control processing]
The ball lending control process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S1351, it is determined whether or not a ball lending permission signal has been received. In this process, if the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 determines that the ball lending permission signal has been received from the card unit 150, the process moves to step S1352, and does not determine that the ball lending permission signal has been received. In this case, this subroutine is terminated.

  In step S1352, a process for determining whether the insurance function flag is ON is performed. In this process, if the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 determines from the main control circuit 60 that it has received a control signal with a value (for example, 1) indicating that the value of the insurance function flag is ON, the process proceeds to step S1354. If it is determined that the control signal has not been received, the process proceeds to step S1353.

  In step S1353, a ball lending process is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 transmits a ball lending control signal so as to lend out the number of game balls requested by the ball lending permission signal to the payout device 128, and further the ball lending control signal. Whether or not the number of game balls is supplied based on the game ball is monitored in the payout device 128. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S1354, a process for determining whether or not the number is the reference collection number or more is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 has a collected value (collected ball cumulative counter value) indicating the number of collected game balls stored in the RAM of the payout / fire control circuit 126 equal to or greater than the reference collected number. It is determined whether or not. When the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 determines that the value of the collected ball cumulative counter is equal to or greater than the reference collection number, the process proceeds to step S1355, and the value of the collected ball cumulative counter is equal to or greater than the reference collection number. If not, the process moves to step S1356.

  In step S1355, processing for clearing the collection flag is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a process of storing a value (for example, 0) indicating that the value of the collection flag is off in the RAM of the payout / fire control circuit 126. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1353.

  In step S1356, processing for setting a collection flag is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a process of storing a value (for example, 1) indicating that the value of the collection flag is on in the RAM of the payout / fire control circuit 126. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1353.

[Collection processing]
The collection process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S2010, it is determined whether or not the collection flag is on. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a process of determining whether or not the value of the collection flag stored in the RAM of the payout / fire control circuit 126 is on (for example, 1). . If the CPU of the payout / firing control circuit 126 determines that it is on, the process proceeds to step S2020. If it is not determined that it is on, this subroutine is terminated.

  In step S2020, processing for setting the number of collected game balls is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 determines the number of game balls to be collected according to the number of game balls that have been paid out, and sets the number of game balls to be collected in the RAM of the payout / fire control circuit 126. In this embodiment, it is set so that one ball is collected for paying out five balls. For this reason, for example, when the winning opening 25 is won, three game balls are paid out as winning balls, and thus are not collected. When winning in the general winning openings 56a to 56d, ten game balls are paid out to the player as prize balls, and two game balls are collected. Further, when a ball lending permission signal in units of 100 yen is received, 25 game balls are paid out to the player, so 5 game balls are collected. When a ball lending permission signal in units of 500 yen is received, 125 game balls are paid out to the player, so 25 game balls are collected. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S2030.

  In step S2030, a collection solenoid drive process is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / firing control circuit 126 performs a process of setting a drive signal for driving the collecting solenoid 501 in the transmission buffer. The drive signal set in the transmission buffer is transmitted to the launching device 130 by the process of step S1213 of FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S2040.

  In step S2040, timer update processing is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a process of updating the value of the collection timer, which is stored in the RAM of the payout / fire control circuit 126, and measures the time during which the collection function is operating. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S2050.

  In step S2050, processing for determining whether or not the collection sensor is on is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a process of determining whether or not an output signal from the collection sensor 550 (see FIG. 6) has been received. When the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 determines that the collection sensor 550 (see FIG. 6) has received the output signal, the process proceeds to step S2060, and the collection sensor 550 (see FIG. 6) has received the output signal. If not, the process proceeds to step S2080.

  In step S2060, the value of the collected ball counter is incremented by one. In this process, the CPU of the payout / firing control circuit 126 performs a process of adding +1 to the value of the collected ball counter stored in the RAM of the payout / firing control circuit 126. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S2070.

  In step S2070, the value of the collected ball accumulation counter is incremented by one. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a process of adding +1 to the value of the collected ball accumulated counter stored in the RAM of the payout / fire control circuit 126. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S2080.

  In step S2080, a process of determining whether or not the value of the collected ball counter is equal to or greater than the number of collected game balls is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / firing control circuit 126 compares the value of the collected ball counter stored in the RAM of the payout / firing control circuit 126 with the number of collected game balls set in the process of step S2020. Then, a process of determining whether or not the value of the collected ball counter is equal to or greater than the number of collected game balls is performed. If it is determined that the value of the collected ball counter is equal to or greater than the number of collected game balls, the process proceeds to step S2090. If the value of the collected ball counter is not determined to be equal to or greater than the number of collected game balls, the process proceeds to step S2110. Transfer.

  In step S2090, processing for resetting the collection timer is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a process of resetting the collection timer value stored in the RAM of the payout / fire control circuit 126 (for example, to 0). Here, when the value of the collection timer in the RAM of the payout / launch control circuit 126 exceeds a predetermined time (a first set value described later), processing for setting an alarm display end command in the transmission buffer is performed. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S2100.

  In step S2100, processing for clearing the collection flag is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a process of storing a value (for example, 0) indicating that the value of the collection flag is off in the RAM of the payout / fire control circuit 126. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S2110, processing for determining whether the timer value is equal to or greater than the first set value is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / firing control circuit 126 determines whether or not the value of the collection timer stored in the RAM of the payout / firing control circuit 126 is equal to or greater than a preset first setting value (for example, 30 seconds). The process which determines is performed. If it is determined that the value of the collection timer is greater than or equal to the first set value set in advance, the process proceeds to step S2120, and if it is not determined that the value of the collected ball counter is greater than or equal to the number of collected game balls, this subroutine is executed. finish.

  In step S2120, processing for setting an alarm display command is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a process of setting an alarm display command in the transmission buffer. The set alarm display command is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 200 in the process of step S1213 of FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S2130.

  In step S2130, it is determined whether or not the timer value is equal to or greater than the second set value. In this process, the CPU of the payout / firing control circuit 126 determines whether or not the value of the collection timer stored in the RAM of the payout / firing control circuit 126 has reached a preset second setting value (for example, 40 seconds or more). The process which determines is performed. If it is determined that the value of the collection timer is greater than or equal to the second set value set in advance, the process proceeds to step S2140, and if it is not determined that the value of the collected ball counter is greater than or equal to the number of collected game balls, this subroutine is executed. finish.

  In step S2140, a process for resetting the timer is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a process of resetting the collection timer value stored in the RAM of the payout / fire control circuit 126 (for example, to 0). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S2150.

  In step S2150, processing for setting an alarm display end command is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a process of setting an alarm display command in the transmission buffer. The set alarm display end command is transmitted to the sub-control circuit 200 in the process of step S1213 of FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S2160.

  In step S2160, processing for turning off the insurance function switch is performed. In this process, the CPU of the payout / launch control circuit 126 performs a process of transmitting an output signal to the insurance function switch 127. Here, the fact that the collection process is executed is based on the premise that the insurance function is operating, that is, the insurance function switch 127 is in the on state. By sending an output signal to the switch 127, the insurance function switch 127 is turned off. As a result, the insurance function is deactivated. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  That is, in the present embodiment, for example, in the case where the number of game balls collected as a condition for operating the insurance function is 6, if 6 balls can be collected within 30 seconds from the start of collection, If the function is continued and 6 balls cannot be collected, a warning is displayed by the liquid crystal display device 32 or the speaker 46, for example. Thereafter, if 6 balls can be collected within 10 seconds, the warning display is stopped and the insurance function is continued. If 6 balls cannot be collected, the insurance function is deactivated. The first set value may be changed according to the number of collected balls, and the second set value can be set by adding a predetermined time to the first set value.

  The sub control circuit 200 receives various commands from the main control circuit 60 and performs various processes such as a display process. Among these processes, the control process according to the present invention will be described below.

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

  In step S1410, initialization processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 reads the activation program from the program ROM 208 and initializes and sets a flag stored in the work RAM 210 in response to power-on. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1420.

  In step S1420, random number update processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of updating the random number stored in the work RAM 210. If this process ends, the process moves to step S1430.

  In step S1430, command analysis processing is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 performs processing for analyzing commands received from the main control circuit 60 and the payout / launch control circuit 126 and stored in the reception buffer of the work RAM 210. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1440.

  In step S1440, display control processing is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 updates data to be transmitted to the display control circuit 250 in order to perform display on the liquid crystal display device 32. In the display control circuit 250, the VDP 212 receives various image data such as background image data, effect image data, and fluctuating speed setting image data based on data for displaying the effect image from the sub CPU 206. And are superimposed on each other and displayed on the display area 32a of the liquid crystal display device 32. The display control process will be described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1450.

  In step S1450, sound control processing is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 transmits data for outputting sound to the sound control circuit 230. The sound control circuit 230 reads various sound data such as music data, sound effect data, and voice data from the sound data ROM 234 based on the data for outputting the sound from the sub CPU 206, superimposes the sound, and uses the AMP 236. Amplified and output from the speaker 46. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1460.

  In step S1460, a lamp control process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 transmits data for lighting the lamp to the drive circuit 240 in this process. The drive circuit 240 reads various lighting pattern data from the decoration data ROM 244 based on the data for lighting the lamp from the sub CPU 206 and lights the lamp 132. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1420.

[Sub control command reception interrupt processing]
The sub control command reception interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S1510, a process for saving the register is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of saving the program being executed stored in each register (storage area). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1520.

  In step S1520, the input command is stored in the reception buffer. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of storing the input command in the reception buffer area of the work RAM 210. For example, the sub CPU 206 receives an effect control command transmitted from the main control circuit 60, a capture command, a payout command, an insurance function command, and a warning display command transmitted from the payout / launch control circuit 126. In this process, the stored command is analyzed in the process of step S1430 in FIG. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1530.

  In step S1530, a process for restoring the register is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 performs processing for restoring the program saved in step S1510 to each register. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Display control processing]
The display control process will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S1600, it is determined whether or not a warning display command has been received. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of determining whether or not a warning display command is included in the command received from the payout / launch control circuit 126. If the sub CPU 206 determines that the warning display command is included, the process proceeds to step S1690. If the sub CPU 206 determines that the warning display command is not included, the process proceeds to step S1600-1.

  In step S1600-1, the sub CPU 206 determines a condition that the insurance ball payout control command has been received. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1600-2. If this condition is not satisfied, the sub CPU 206 proceeds to step S1600-1. The process proceeds to S1610.

  In step S1600-2, the sub CPU 206 displays an image indicating that the payout by insurance is performed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 22, the sub CPU 206 has an injured character C1, a character C4 that encloses the character C1, a balloon C3 that shows the character's thoughts, and a balloon C5 that shows the dialogue of the character C4. Is displayed. Thereafter, the sub CPU 206 ends the display control process.

  In step S1610, it is determined whether or not a change display command has been received. In this process, the sub CPU 206 performs a process of determining whether or not the command received from the main control circuit 60 includes a change display command. If the sub CPU 206 determines that the change display command is included, the process proceeds to step S1611. If the sub CPU 206 determines that the change display command is not included, the process proceeds to step S1619.

  In step S1611, as shown in FIG. 23, the sub CPU 206 variably displays the 3-digit identification information 94, while the jump box C2, the character C1 trying to fly the jump box C2, and the balloon C3 indicating the dialogue of the character C1. Is displayed.

  In step S1612, the sub CPU 206 stops the identification information 94 based on the stop symbol designation command.

  In step S1613, the sub CPU 206 determines a condition that the stop symbol designation command indicates a big hit. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1614, and if this condition is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1615.

  In step S <b> 1614, the sub CPU 206 performs a big hit effect. Thereafter, the sub CPU 206 ends the display control process.

  In step S1615, the sub CPU 206 performs an effect at the time of the loss. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 24, the sub CPU 206 includes a character C1 that has failed to jump in the jump box and has fallen, a jump box C2 that has partially fallen off, and a balloon C3 that indicates the line of the character C1. indicate.

  In step S1616, the sub CPU 206 determines the condition that the insurance operation command is given, that is, the condition that the insurance is operating. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1617, and this condition is not satisfied. In the case, the process proceeds to step S1618.

  In step S <b> 1617, the sub CPU 206 calculates the remaining number of fluctuations and the number of collections required until the payout by the insurance is performed based on the command given from the main CPU 66 or the payout / launch control circuit 126. As shown in FIG. 25, it is displayed in a balloon C3. The remaining number of fluctuations is calculated by subtracting the value of the fluctuation number counter from the reference number of fluctuations, and the remaining number of collections is calculated by subtracting the value of the collected ball cumulative counter from the reference number of collections. Thereafter, the sub CPU 206 ends the display control process.

  In step S <b> 1618, the sub CPU 206 performs insurance guidance display. Specifically, the sub CPU 206 first displays an injured character C1 and a speech balloon C3 indicating the dialogue of the character C1, as shown in FIG. The balloon C3 is drawn with the words “Thank you for insurance”. This prompts the player to take out insurance.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 27, the sub CPU 206 changes and displays the contents of the balloon C3. The balloon C3 is drawn with the words “If you get insurance, you will be saved if you get hooked! * Part of the consumed ball will be returned”. Thereby, the outline of insurance is left to the player.

  In step S1618-1, the sub CPU 206 determines the condition that the insurance operation command is given from the main CPU 66, specifically, the condition that the insurance function button 27 is pressed by the player, and this condition is satisfied. In this case, the process proceeds to step S1618-2. If this condition is not satisfied, the display control process is terminated.

  In step S <b> 1618-2, the sub CPU 206 displays guidance that insurance has started operating. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 28, the sub CPU 206 displays an injured character C1 and a balloon C3 indicating the dialogue of the character C1. In the balloon C3, the words “Thank you, this is safe” are drawn. This notifies the player that the insurance has been activated. Thereafter, the sub CPU 206 ends the display control process.

  In step S1619, the sub CPU 206 determines a condition that a change command has been given from the main CPU 66. If this condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1620. If this condition is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S1621. .

  In step S1620, the sub CPU 206 displays the contents of the change command. Specifically, the sub CPU 206 determines the size of characters drawn in the balloon C3 and the balloon C3 based on the value of the insurance level counter. The sub CPU 206 enlarges the letters drawn in the balloon C3 and the balloon C3 as the value of the insurance level counter is larger. The sub CPU 206 determines the display color of the characters drawn in the balloon C3 and the balloon C3 based on the insurance level. The sub CPU 206 sets blue when the insurance level is 1, blue when it is 2, yellow when it is 3, orange when it is 4, and red when it is 5.

  As shown in FIG. 29, the sub CPU 206 displays an injured character C1, a character C4 that encloses the character C1, and a balloon C3 that indicates the dialogue of the character C1. Here, the sub CPU 206 displays the balloon C3 in the size and display color determined as described above. Further, the sub CPU 206 displays the level, the number of standard collections, the number of standard fluctuations, and the number of insurance payouts in the balloon C3 in the determined display color and size. FIG. 29 shows an image displayed when the level is 1 and the value of the insurance level counter is 1. FIG. 30 is displayed when the level is 3 and the value of the insurance level counter is 5. Images are shown. Here, since the value of the insurance level counter increases by 1 every time the value of the shot ball counter reaches 300, it corresponds to the timing when the insurance content is switched, and the insurance level corresponds to the insurance content. Therefore, the sub CPU 206 displays the insurance content in a display mode corresponding to the timing at which the insurance content is switched and the insurance content.

  In step S1621, other display control processing is performed. In this processing, the sub CPU 206 calls data for displaying other displays from a predetermined area of the program ROM 208 and updates data for transmission to the display control circuit 250. In the display control circuit 250, the VDP 212 reads various image data such as background image data and effect image data from the image data ROM 216 based on data for displaying other images from the sub CPU 206, and superimposes them. Then, it is displayed on the display area 32 a of the liquid crystal display device 32. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S1690, a warning display control process is performed. In this process, the sub CPU 206 displays an image for warning the player that a specified number of game balls as valuable values that are conditions for operating the insurance function are not collected. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 31, the sub CPU 206 displays an injured character C1 and a balloon C3 indicating the dialogue of the character C1. In the balloon C3, the characters “Put a ball in the upper plate! Insurance will be reset!” Are drawn. This notifies the player that it is necessary to refill the upper plate 20 with a game ball.

  As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 10 can operate a loss compensation function (insurance) that compensates for loss according to the game result by spending the reference number of game balls when the game is executed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 10 activates the loss compensation function when a selection operation for activating the loss compensation function is performed, so that the player who does not need the loss compensation function is forced to activate the loss compensation function. You can avoid it. Further, since the pachinko gaming machine 10 is operated by switching a plurality of types of loss compensation functions, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation that a loss compensation function advantageous to himself / herself is activated, and consequently The interest in the loss compensation function can be maintained. Further, when the loss compensation function is switched, the pachinko gaming machine 10 displays information on the operation of the loss compensation function (that is, the contents of insurance, see FIG. 29 and FIG. 30). This makes it easier to recognize the state of the loss compensation function and to give interest to the insurance function.

  Furthermore, since the pachinko gaming machine 10 switches the insurance content at any timing among a plurality of timings (timing at which the number of shot balls is a multiple of 300), a display corresponding to the timing at which the loss compensation function is switched. In an aspect, information about the operation of the loss compensation function is displayed. Accordingly, the pachinko gaming machine 10 can make the player interested in the timing at which the loss compensation function is switched, and thus can maintain interest in the entire game.

  In particular, the pachinko gaming machine 10 displays the insurance content larger as the value of the insurance level counter is larger, that is, as the state of not winning the jackpot lottery lasts longer. As a result, the pachinko gaming machine 10 has been in a state of not winning the jackpot lottery for a long time, and can make a strong impression of the existence of insurance to a player who is feeling disappointed with the game. Can maintain interest in.

  Further, the pachinko gaming machine 10 displays information related to the operation of the loss compensation function in a display mode corresponding to the timing at which the loss compensation function is switched and the loss compensation function after switching (see FIGS. 29 and 30). ), The player can be interested not only in the timing at which the loss compensation function is switched, but also in the loss compensation function after switching, and thus can maintain interest in the entire game. .

  In particular, the pachinko gaming machine 10 gradually changes the display color from blue to red as the insurance level increases, so that the player can easily grasp the current insurance level.

  Further, the pachinko gaming machine 10 switches the loss compensation function at the timing when the number of game balls launched by the player's launch operation reaches one of the set number of launches (multiple of 300). Therefore, the timing at which the loss compensation function is switched can be related to the launch operation by the player. For this reason, the player can make a prediction at the timing when the loss compensation function is switched. In other words, the pachinko gaming machine 10 can make it difficult for the player to feel that the switching of the loss compensation function is unexpected, and thus can reduce the distrust of the switching of the loss compensation function.

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, they are merely illustrative examples and do not particularly limit the present invention. That is, the above specific configuration can be appropriately changed in design.

  For example, the pachinko gaming machine 10 switches the insurance content according to the number of game balls fired, but other timings, for example, the number of fluctuations, the number of reach, the number of super reach, the number of game balls to a predetermined area in the game area The insurance content may be switched according to the number of passes. That is, as the number of times increases, the value of the insurance level counter may be increased. Note that the reach state is a state in which two of the three pieces of identification information are stopped and whether or not a stop mode for notifying the jackpot is determined according to the stop mode of the remaining one identification information. The reach state means a reach that is particularly flashy in the reach state. With regard to the number of fluctuations, the number of times of reach, and the number of times of super reach, there are some players who are pleased when these numbers are increased, and some players are frustrated, but an advantageous effect can be obtained for any player. That is, since the pachinko gaming machine 10 displays the insurance content greatly for a player who is pleased when the number of changes increases, the joy of the game can be further increased, and thus the interest in the game can be maintained. On the other hand, since the pachinko gaming machine 10 displays the insurance content large for a player who is frustrated when the number of fluctuations increases, the insurance content can be strongly impressed, and thus disappointment with the game can be reduced.

  Further, the pachinko gaming machine 10 displays the insurance content larger as the value of the insurance level counter increases, but the details of the description of the insurance content may be changed. That is, the pachinko gaming machine 10 may display only the level when the value of the insurance level counter is 1, and increase the display items as the value of the insurance level counter increases.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 10 displays the insurance content in a display color corresponding to the insurance level, but the display luminance may be changed. That is, the pachinko gaming machine 10 may display the display brightness higher as the insurance level increases.

  Moreover, although the pachinko gaming machine 10 automatically switches the insurance level, it may be switched according to the player's operation.

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

1 is a perspective view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the general view of the pachinko game machine in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view which shows the lamp unit of the pachinko game machine in one Embodiment of this invention. 1 is a front view showing an overview of a game board of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a top view of the upper plate in the pachinko game machine of one embodiment of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the internal structure of the upper plate in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the main control circuit and sub control circuit which are comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the table used in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows a display screen in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows a display screen in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows a display screen in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows a display screen in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows a display screen in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows a display screen in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows a display screen in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows a display screen in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows a display screen in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows a display screen in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

10 Pachinko machine 14 Game board 25 Start port 32 Liquid crystal display device 39 Large winning port 54a Passing gate 54b Passing gate 56a General winning port 56b General winning port 56c General winning port 56d General winning port 60 Main control circuit 62 Generating reset clock pulse Circuit 64 Initial reset circuit 66 Main CPU
68 Main ROM
70 Main RAM
72 IC for serial communication
126 Discharge / Launch Control Circuit 150 Card Unit 152 Unit Setting Button 200 Sub Control Circuit 206 Sub CPU
208 Program ROM
210 Work RAM
216 Image data ROM
218 D / A converter 220 Initial reset circuit 230 Audio control circuit 232 Sound source IC
234 Audio data ROM
236 Amplifier 240 Drive circuit 242 Drive circuit 244 Decoration data ROM
250 Display control circuit

Claims (4)

A game board having a game area in which a game ball launched by a launch operation by a player rolls;
Game execution control means for controlling a game for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls when the launched game balls pass through a winning area in the game area;
Loss compensation operation that collects a predetermined amount of valuable value for playing a game and performs control to switch and operate a plurality of types of loss compensation functions that compensate for the player's loss according to the game result by the control of the game execution control means Control means;
A selection means for accepting a selection operation of whether or not to activate the loss compensation function;
A gaming machine comprising: a display unit that displays information related to the operation of the loss compensation function when the loss compensation operation control unit switches the loss compensation function. The loss compensation operation control means switches the loss compensation function at any timing among a plurality of timings,
2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the display means displays information related to the operation of the loss compensation function in a display mode according to the timing at which the loss compensation function is switched.   The display means displays information related to the operation of the loss compensation function in a display mode corresponding to the timing at which the loss compensation function is switched and the loss compensation function after switching. The gaming machine described in 1.   3. The timing at which the loss compensation function is switched is a timing at which the number of game balls launched by a player's launch operation reaches any one of a predetermined number. Or the gaming machine of 3.

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