JP2009233391A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent the confusion of a player from being caused by the change of the game state as much as possible by suppressing the change of the form of an advance notice performance due to the change of a game state. <P>SOLUTION: In advance notice setting processing, when a game state is a probability variable state, a CPU confirms whether or not a rotation number counter is ≤4. The rotation number counter is a counter for counting the remaining number of times of the variable display of special patterns in the state of maintaining the probability variable state. When the rotation number counter is not ≤4, the CPU executes the processing of determining whether or not there is the one to be a jackpot in holding storage and whether or not to execute the advance notice performance. When the rotation number counter is ≤4, the advance notice setting processing ended without performing the processing of determining whether or not to execute the advance notice performance or the like. Thus, the performance by the change of the game state is prevented from being executed while the advance notice performance is executed, and the confusion of the player is prevented. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention includes variable display means capable of variably displaying identification information that can identify each of the identification information. After a predetermined variable display execution condition is satisfied, the identification information is stored based on the satisfaction of the variable display start condition. The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine that can be controlled in a specific gaming state that is advantageous to the player when variable display is started and the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a specific display result.

  As a gaming machine, a game medium such as a game ball is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game medium wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Furthermore, variable display means capable of variably displaying the identification information is provided, so that when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a specific display result, it can be controlled to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player. There is something configured.

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

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

  In addition, the symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) on the variable display means continue for a predetermined time and stop, swing, or expand in a state that matches the specific display result. The possibility of big hits continues before the final result is displayed due to a reduced or deformed state, or multiple symbols changing synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol changing. An effect performed in a state in which the player is in a state (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. In the reach state, the interest of the game is enhanced by making the variation pattern different from the variation pattern in the normal state. And when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the variable display means does not satisfy the condition for reaching the reach state, it becomes “displaced”, and the variable display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  Some of these gaming machines have a so-called notice function that notifies in advance that the reach mode or the big hit mode is displayed on the variable display means. The notice effect based on the notice function is provided in the gaming machine, for example, before the final stop symbol is confirmed, when the special symbol variable display mode or background image changes, or a predetermined character appears or changes. This is performed by blinking light emitting means such as lamps / LEDs or outputting sound and sound effects from sound output means such as a speaker provided in the gaming machine.

  In addition, in the gaming machine as described above, it is determined whether or not the variable display result is a big hit for all of the on-hold memories, and if it is determined that a big hit is included, a variable display that is a big hit is displayed. Some are configured to continuously execute the notice effect until it is executed. For example, a notice effect is executed by continuously displaying a notice image on the variable display means over a plurality of variable displays, or continuously by a reserved memory number display for displaying the number of reserved memories. Is configured to run. In a gaming machine that continuously performs a notice effect by using the reserved memory number display, the reserved memory that is a big hit out of the reserved memories displayed on the reserved memory number display is displayed so as to be distinguishable from other reserved memories. The player will be informed that a big hit will occur. Note that the on-hold storage stores the number that the execution condition for the variable display of symbols is satisfied but the actual variable display is not yet started, and is also referred to as a start winning storage. In addition, the maximum number of reserved memories has an upper limit, and the upper limit is 4, for example.

  A gaming machine that continuously executes a notice effect until a variable display that is a big hit is executed, the background image is changed in accordance with the notice effect when such a notice effect is executed. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

JP 2002-58822 A

  However, in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, if the gaming state changes during the continuous execution of the notice effect, the background image also changes in response to the change in the gaming state. If the mode of the notice effect changes, the player is misunderstood and there is a problem that the player may be confused.

  Therefore, the present invention can prevent the state of the notice effect from being changed due to a change in the gaming state when executing the notice effect continuously over a plurality of variable displays. An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of preventing the player from being confused as much as possible by changing the gaming state.

  The gaming machine according to the present invention includes variable display means (for example, a variable display device 9) capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them, and predetermined variable display execution conditions (for example, start winning: After the winning ball is won at the start winning opening 14), the variable display start condition (for example, the variable display of the special symbol and the big hit gaming state of the previous time are finished, and the start winning memory number is not 0) The variable display of the plurality of types of identification information is started in accordance with the order in which the variable display execution condition is satisfied based on the establishment of the above, and the display result of the variable display of the plurality of types of identification information is the specific display result (for example, A gaming machine that can be controlled to a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state) that is advantageous to the player when it becomes the same design), and the display result is displayed before the derivation display. Display result predetermining means for determining whether or not to perform (for example, the portion of step S56 in the game control means) and the display result predetermining means determine that the display result is the specific display result. Specific game state control means for controlling the game state to the specific game state after the specific display result is displayed on the device (for example, step S305 to step S308 in the game control means), and the start condition is still satisfied after the execution condition is satisfied Holding storage means for storing execution of variable display that has not been performed up to a predetermined holding upper limit number (for example, 4) (for example, a part for executing steps S111 to S114 of the start-port switch passing processing in the game control means, particularly step A portion for executing a process of storing in the storage area according to the number of storage in S113), and a predetermined special condition For example, when a promiscuous symbol is a big hit and the big hit game effect is finished, or when a non-probable big hit and the big hit game effect is finished during the probability change), the identification information can be changed after a special condition is established. Unlike the specific gaming state, the normal gaming state that is disadvantageous to the player (for example, the game state is not changed in accordance with the progress of the game) until the display is executed a predetermined special number (for example, 100 times). Compared to when the player is controlled to play the game with the expectation that the gaming state will be changed from the normal gaming state to another gaming state advantageous to the player. Special gaming state in which the display result of the variable display of the identification information is likely to be a specific display result (for example, a probability variation state with a higher probability of being determined to be a big hit compared to the normal gaming state, a normal gaming state When the variable display performance time is shortened and the number of variable displays per unit time is increased compared to the state, the opening and closing piece opening / closing operation period and number of times by the variable winning ball apparatus 15 are compared with the normal game state. The big hit determination process is executed by using a special game state control means (for example, a determination table at the time of high probability in the game control means (the table on the right side of FIG. 9A)) that controls the game state in the extended extended state). Part) and determination means for determining whether or not the specific display result is derived and displayed by executing the variable display held in the hold storage means (for example, a part for executing steps S203 to S210 in the game control means) Depending on whether or not it is determined that the specific display result is derived and displayed by the determining means (for example, when it is determined that the jackpot is a high probability, the probability is determined to be out of place. A part that executes steps S211 to S215 in the game control means, for example, to determine whether or not to execute the notice effect before the determined variable display is executed. ) And a plurality of effect modes different in the effect mode of the notice effect (for example, an effect mode in which a background pattern at the time of probability change is displayed and an effect mode in which a background symbol at the time of non-change probability is displayed). It is decided to execute the notice effect by the effect mode selection means (for example, the part that executes Steps S877 and S845 in the effect control means) that selects different effect modes in the game state and the normal game state, and the notice determination means. The effect selected by the effect mode selection means from a plurality of effect modes of the predetermined notice effect A notice effect execution means (for example, a part that executes steps S632, S635, and S636 in the effect control means) for executing the notice effect according to the effect mode corresponding to the mode (for example, the effect mode selected in steps S631 to S636); While the game is controlled to the special game state, the identification information in the special game state is not changed until a variable display (for example, a variable display that is a big hit) is executed. When it is determined that the number of executions of the variable display (for example, the number of variable displays for which the notice effect for notifying that it will be a big hit is executed) reaches a special number (for example, the variable display effect serving as a big hit as a result of the notice in the notice effect Is determined to be executed after the probability change state is finished), the notice effect that prohibits the start of execution of a new notice effect Execution prohibiting means (for example, a part that controls not to execute the processing after step S203 so that the game control means does not make a decision to determine the hold display advance notice in steps S214 and S215). It is characterized by. According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the player from being misunderstood as if the game state has changed during execution of the notice effect and the effect mode of the notice effect has changed. It is possible to prevent as much as possible from causing confusion.

  In addition, the gaming machine according to the present invention includes variable display means (for example, variable display device 9) that can variably display a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them. Winning: After the winning of the game ball to the start winning opening 14 is established, the variable display start condition (for example, the previous special symbol variable display and jackpot gaming state is finished, and the start winning memory number is not 0. The variable display of a plurality of types of identification information is started in accordance with the order in which the variable display execution condition is satisfied, and the display result of the variable display of the plurality of types of identification information is a specific display result (for example, left middle right) A gaming machine that can be controlled to a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state) advantageous to the player when the symbols become the same symbol), and the display result is displayed before the derivation display. When the display result predetermining means (for example, the part that executes step S56 in the game control means) that determines whether or not the result is determined and the display result predetermining means determines that the display result is the specific display result, Specific game state control means for controlling the game state to the specific game state after the specific display result is displayed on the variable display device (for example, step S305 to step S308 in the game control means) and the start condition after the execution condition is satisfied Holding storage means for storing execution of variable display that is not established up to a predetermined holding upper limit number (for example, 4) (for example, a part for executing steps S111 to S114 of the start port switch passing processing in the game control means, In particular, a part for executing a process of saving in the save area according to the number of memories in step S113) and a predetermined special When a condition (for example, a big hit with a probable change symbol and the big hit game effect ends, a non-probable big hit during the probability change and the big hit game effect ends), the identification information is established after a special condition is satisfied. Unlike a specific gaming state, a normal gaming state (for example, a change in a gaming state corresponding to the progress of the game) is made until the variable display is executed for a predetermined special number of times (for example, 100 times). When a player is controlled to play a game with the expectation that the gaming state is changed from the normal gaming state to another gaming state advantageous to the player. Compared to the special gaming state in which the display result of the variable display of the identification information is likely to be the specific display result (for example, the probability variation state in which the probability of being determined to be a big hit compared with the normal gaming state, The duration and number of opening / closing operations of the opening / closing piece by the variable winning ball device 15 compared with the normal gaming state, when the presentation time of the variable display is shortened compared with the gaming state and the number of variable displays per unit time is increased. The big hit determination process is executed by using a special game state control means (for example, a determination table at the time of high probability in the game control means (the table on the right side of FIG. 9A)) that controls the game state in the open extended state in which the game is extended. And determination means for determining whether or not the specific display result is derived and displayed by executing the variable display held in the hold storage means (for example, a portion for executing steps S203 to S210 in the game control means) And a different probability depending on whether or not it is determined that the specific display result is derived and displayed by the determination means (for example, a high probability when it is determined to be a big hit, and an outlier When it is determined, a low probability may be set), and notice determination means for determining whether or not a notice effect is executed before the determined variable display is executed (for example, steps S211 to S215 in the game control means are executed) Part) and a plurality of effect modes in which the effect mode of the notice effect is different (for example, an effect mode in which the background symbol at the time of probability change is displayed and an effect mode in which the background symbol at the time of non-change probability is displayed), It is possible to execute the notice effect by means of the effect mode selection means (for example, the part that executes Steps S877 and S845 in the effect control means) that selects different effect modes in the special game state and the normal game state, and the notice determination means. When it is determined, it is selected by the production mode selection means from a plurality of production modes of the predetermined announcement production. A notice effect executing means (for example, a portion for executing steps S632, S635, and S636 in the effect control means) for executing the notice effect according to the effect mode corresponding to the effect mode (for example, the effect mode selected in steps S631 to S636); The number of remaining times until the number of executions of variable display of the identification information in the special game state becomes the special number when controlled to the special game state (for example, the variable display number until the variable display subject to the notice by the notice effect) . Specifically, for example, any number of times from 1 to 100 times. ) Is at least equal to or less than the upper limit number of holdings, a notice effect execution prohibiting means for prohibiting the start of execution of a new notice effect (for example, a notice effect executed to determine to perform a notice effect in the game control means) A portion for controlling not to execute the processing after step S203 in order not to execute the processing for determining whether to execute, or to invalidate the notice effect determined to be executed in the game control means. It may also be a part to be controlled.). According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the player from being misunderstood as if the game state has changed during execution of the notice effect and the effect mode of the notice effect has changed. Can be prevented as much as possible.

  The number of prohibitions is, for example, the upper limit number of holding (for example, 4 times when up to 4 can be stored). According to such a configuration, it is possible to minimize the period during which the start of execution of a new notice effect is prohibited, and it is possible to prevent the game interest from deteriorating.

  Game control means (for example, game control means including the CPU 56) for controlling the progress of the game, and effect control means (for example, effect) for controlling the execution of the game effects based on control information (for example, effect control commands) from the game control means. The game control means includes a notice determining means and a notice execution control information transmitting means for sending notice execution control information indicating the determination result of the notice determining means to the effect control means. (For example, a portion of steps S233 to S237 in the game control means), and the effect control means includes a notice effect execution means, and an effect mode corresponding to the effect mode selected based on the received notice execution control information Even if it is configured to execute a notice effect in the selected effect mode (for example, steps S631 to S636) There. According to such a configuration, the control burden can be distributed and the control burden can be prevented from being biased.

  The game control means includes special game state control means and special start control information transmission means (for example, game) for transmitting special game state start control information (for example, probability change state start command) indicating that control to the special game state has been started. And a step of executing steps S172 and S173 in the control means), and the presentation control means receives the special game state start control information, so that the variable display of the identification information is displayed a special number of times after the special game state is started. Sets the initial value of the number of times for special determination (for example, the count value of the sub-rotation speed counter) used for determining whether or not it has been executed (for example, 99. However, the probability variation state does not occur without waiting for the reception of the variation pattern command When the initial value is set when the start command is received, 100 is set in the same manner as the initial value in the game control means. When the rotational speed counter is configured to count the number of variable displays by counting up, when the variable pattern command is received after setting, “1” is set as the initial value, and the variable pattern command is received. In the case of setting without waiting, “0” is set as the initial value.) Each time the variable display of the identification information is executed, the special determination number counting means for updating the special determination number (for example, production) Based on the count result of the special determination number counting means (for example, whether the count result is a certain variation state set according to the count result). Or a special game state determination means for determining whether or not the special game state is in effect (for example, step S873 in the effect control means). Or it may be configured to include a line portion to). According to such a configuration, the game state can be grasped in common by the game control means and the effect control means without increasing the control burden of the game control means, and erroneous notification is made. Can be prevented.

  The game control means and the special game state control means and state control information transmitting means for transmitting state control information indicating the game state every time the variable display of the identification information is started (for example, a part for executing steps S68 and S69 in the game control means) The state of the game state flag that is set / reset by reception of the state command by the effect control means based on the received state control information (for example, by the last received state command) Or a special gaming state determination means for determining whether or not a special gaming state is in effect (for example, depending on the type of state command stored in the effect control means, or the state of the gaming state flag) It may be configured to include a portion that executes a process of determining whether or not there is. According to such a configuration, it is possible to easily realize a common understanding of the game state on the game control means side and the effect control means side.

Hold display means for performing a predetermined hold display corresponding to each of the variable displays stored in the hold storage means (for example, the number of start storage display areas corresponding to the number of numerical data is displayed in blue). (For example, the variable display device 9, particularly the start storage display area 18), and a hold display control means for controlling the hold display to be displayed in a predetermined hold display mode (for example, the portion for executing step S620 in the effect control means). , And in the special gaming state, the notice effect execution means displays the hold display corresponding to the variable display determined to be the specific display result derived and displayed by the determination means in the special hold display mode. You may be comprised so that an effect may be performed (for example, a hold display notice effect is performed). According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the gaming state from changing during the execution of the notice effect by the hold display and the appearance effect mode to change, and the hold display that does not cause confusion of the player. A notice effect can be executed.
Specific numerical value updating means (for example, a counter for generating a big hit determination random number) for updating a numerical value (for example, a counter value for generating a big hit determination random number) within a predetermined numerical range, and execution conditions for variable display Is established, the numerical value extracting means for extracting the specific extracted value from the specific numerical value updating means (for example, the part for executing steps S111 to S114 of the start port switch passing process in the game control means, particularly each random number in step S113 is stored in the start winning memory. And a holding storage unit stores the extracted value extracted when the execution condition is satisfied (for example, stored in the storage area in step S113). ), The variable display is stored on hold, and the determination means determines whether the extracted value stored in the hold storage means matches the determination value. , A configuration to determine whether a particular display result is derived displayed by the variable display being held stored (e.g., step S56), may be provided further.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board) and an effect control board. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is a flowchart which shows a notice setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a notice setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the process at the time of a fluctuation | variation start. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a jackpot determination table, reach determination table, notice determination table, and notice type selection rate. It is a flowchart which shows a game state designation | designated process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the notification aspect determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the execution aspect of a pending | holding display advance notice. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of 1 structure of process data. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display state of the background at the time of high probability and normal time. It is a flowchart which shows all the symbol variation start processes. It is a flowchart which shows the process during symbol fluctuation. It is a flowchart which shows all the symbol stop waiting processes. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the relationship between the determination timing of a hold display advance notice, and the change timing of a background symbol. It is a flowchart which shows the other example of the process at the time of a fluctuation | variation start.

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

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

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

  Near the center of the game area 7, a variable display device (special variable display section) 9 including a plurality of variable display sections each variably displaying a symbol as identification information is provided. The variable display device 9 has, for example, three variable display portions (symbol display areas) of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The variable display section may be a fixed area, but may move or change in size in the display area of the variable display device 9 while the game is in progress. In addition, the variable display device 9 is provided with four special symbol start memory display areas (start memory display areas) 18 for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the start winning opening 14, that is, the start winning memory number. Every time there is an effective start prize (start prize when the start prize memory number is less than 4), the start memory display area 18 for changing the display color (for example, changing from blue display to yellow display) is increased by one. Each time the variable display of the variable display device 9 is started, the start memory display area 18 in which the display color is changed is reduced by 1 (that is, the display color is returned to the original).

  Since the symbol display area and the start memory display area 18 are provided separately, the start winning memory number can be displayed even during variable display. Further, the start memory display area 18 may be provided in a part of the symbol display area. In that case, the display of the start winning memory number may be interrupted during variable display. In this embodiment, the start memory display area 18 is provided in the variable display device 9. However, the variable display device 9 is a display (special symbol start memory display) for displaying the start winning memory number. It may be provided separately.

  Below the variable display device 9, a variable winning ball device 15 including a start winning opening 14 is provided. The winning ball that has entered the start winning opening 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the start opening switch 14a. The variable winning ball apparatus 15 includes left and right opening / closing pieces that perform opening / closing operations. The opening / closing piece is opened by the solenoid 16.

  An open / close plate 20 that is opened by a solenoid 21 in a specific gaming state (big hit state) is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. The opening / closing plate 20 is a means for opening and closing the special winning opening. Of the winning balls guided from the opening / closing plate 20 to the back of the game board 6, the winning ball entering one (V winning area) is detected by the V winning switch 22, and the winning ball from the opening / closing plate 20 is detected by the count switch 23. Is done. On the back of the game board 6, a solenoid 21A for switching the route in the special winning opening is also provided.

  When a game ball wins the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, a predetermined random number value is extracted if the normal symbol start winning memory has not reached the upper limit. And if it is a state which can start the variable display in which a display state changes in the normal symbol display 10, the variable display of the display of the normal symbol display 10 will be started. If the normal symbol display 10 is not in a state where variable display in which the display state changes can be started, the value of the normal symbol start winning memory is incremented by one. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, there is provided a normal symbol start memory display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of normal symbol start winning memorized numbers. Each time there is a prize at the gate 32, the normal symbol start memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one. The special symbol and the normal symbol can be variably displayed on one variable display device. In that case, the special variable display unit and the normal variable display unit are realized by one variable display device.

  In this embodiment, the left and right lamps (the symbols can be visually recognized at the time of lighting) are alternately turned on, whereby the normal symbols are variably displayed, and the variable display continues for a predetermined time (for example, 29.2 seconds). If the left lamp is turned on at the end of the variable display, it is a win. Whether or not to win is determined by whether or not the value of the random number extracted when the game ball wins the gate 32 matches a predetermined hit determination value. When the display result of the variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is a win, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times for a predetermined time so that the game ball is likely to win. That is, the state of the variable winning ball device 15 changes from a disadvantageous state to a player's advantageous state when the normal symbol is a winning symbol.

  Furthermore, in the probability variation state as the special game state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and one or both of the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased. And more advantageous for the player. Further, in a predetermined state such as a probability change state, the variable display period (fluctuation time) in the normal symbol display 10 may be shortened, which may be more advantageous for the player.

  The game board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning holes 29, 30, 33, 39, and winning of game balls to the winning holes 29, 30, 33, 39 is performed by winning hole switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a, respectively. Detected. Around the left and right sides of the game area 7, there are provided decorative lamps 25 that are blinked and displayed during the game, and at the bottom there is an out mouth 26 that absorbs the hit ball that has not won. In addition, two speakers 27 that emit sound effects and sounds are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c are provided.

  In this example, a prize ball lamp 51 that is turned on when there is a remaining number of prize balls is provided in the vicinity of the left frame lamp 28b, and a ball that is turned on when the supply ball is cut out in the vicinity of the right frame lamp 28c. A cut lamp 52 is provided.

  The game balls launched from the hit ball launching device enter the game area 7 through the hit ball rail, and then descend the game area 7. When the hit ball enters the start winning opening 14 and is detected by the start opening switch 14a, the variable display device 9 starts variable display (variation) if the variable display of the symbol can be started. If it is not in a state where the variable display of symbols can be started, the start winning memory number is increased by one.

  The variable display of the special symbol on the variable display device 9 stops when a certain time has elapsed. If the combination of the special symbols at the time of the stop is a jackpot symbol (specific display mode), the game shifts to a jackpot gaming state. That is, the opening / closing plate 20 is opened until a predetermined time elapses or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of hit balls wins. When the hit ball enters the V winning area while the opening / closing plate 20 is opened and is detected by the V winning switch 22, a continuation right is generated and the opening / closing plate 20 is opened again. The generation of the continuation right is allowed a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 rounds).

  When the combination of special symbols in the variable display device 9 at the time of stopping is a combination of jackpot symbols (probability variation symbols) with probability fluctuations, the probability of the next jackpot increases. That is, it becomes a more advantageous state (special game state) for the player, which is a probable change state.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board 31 and the effect control board 80. As shown in FIG. FIG. 2 also shows the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70. The main board 31 includes a basic circuit 53 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program, a gate switch 32a, a start port switch 14a, a V winning switch 22, a count switch 23, winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a, A switch circuit 58 for supplying signals from the tongue switch 48 and the clear switch 921 to the basic circuit 53, a solenoid 16 for opening / closing the variable winning ball apparatus 15, a solenoid 21 for opening / closing the opening / closing plate 20, and a path for switching in the special winning opening A solenoid circuit 59 that drives the solenoid 21A according to a command from the basic circuit 53 is mounted.

  The gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the V winning switch 22, the count switch 23, the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a, and other switches may be referred to as sensors. That is, the name of the game medium detection means is not limited as long as it is a game medium detection means (game ball detection means in this example) that can detect a game ball.

  Further, according to the data given from the basic circuit 53, the jackpot information indicating the occurrence of the jackpot, the effective starting information indicating the number of starting winning balls used for starting the variable display of the symbols in the variable display device 9, the probability variation has occurred. An information output circuit 64 is provided for outputting an information output signal such as probability variation information indicating an error to an external device such as a hall computer via an information terminal board installed on the back of the gaming machine.

  The basic circuit 53 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means (means for storing variation data) used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations according to the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and RAM 55 are built in the CPU 56. That is, the CPU 56 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 and the I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached or built-in. Since the CPU 56 executes control according to the program stored in the ROM 54, the CPU 56 executes (or performs processing) hereinafter, specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to the program. is there. The same applies to CPUs mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

  Further, a part or all of the RAM (may be a CPU built-in RAM) 55 is a backup RAM backed up by a backup power source created on the power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is saved for a predetermined period.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the normal symbol start memory display 41 and the decoration lamp 25 provided on the game board, and is provided on the frame side. The display control of the top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, the prize ball lamp 51 and the ball-out lamp 52 is performed. Each lamp may be an LED or other types of light emitters. That is, a lamp or LED is an example of a light emitter, and may hereinafter be collectively referred to as a lamp / LED. Further, a variable display device decoration LED (center decoration LED) is installed at the upper part and the left and right parts of the variable display device 9, and a large prize opening interior decoration LED is installed inside the big prize opening, and on the right and left of the big prize opening. Is provided with a large winning opening left decoration LED and a large winning opening right decoration LED. The effect control means also controls those light emitters.

  A drive signal for driving the lamp / LED is generated in the lamp driver substrate 35. In addition, when a movable member as a production means is installed in the gaming machine, a drive signal for driving a production drive means such as a motor or a solenoid for driving the movable member is also sent to the lamp driver board 35. Created.

  Further, the display control of the variable display device 9 that variably displays the special symbol and the normal symbol display 10 that variably displays the normal symbol is performed by effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 2, in the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates according to a program stored in a ROM (not shown), and generates a strobe signal (effect control INT signal) from the main board 31. In response, the presentation control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103. The effect control CPU 101 performs display control of the variable display device 9 using the LCD via the output port 104 and the LCD drive circuit 106, and the normal symbol display 10 via the output port 104 and the lamp drive circuit 107. Display control.

  Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 109 and the output driver 110. A bus (including an address bus, a data bus, and a control signal line such as a write / read signal) that is input / output to / from the effect control CPU 101 is extended to the lamp driver board 35 via the bus driver 105.

  In this embodiment, lamps / LEDs and effect driving means provided in the gaming machine are controlled by effect control means including effect CPU 101 mounted on effect control board 80. Further, data for controlling the variable display device 9, the normal symbol display 10, the lamp / LED and the like are stored in the ROM. The effect CPU 101 controls the variable display device 9, the normal symbol display 10, the lamp / LED, and the like based on the data stored in the ROM. Then, the lamp / LED and the driving means for presentation are driven via the output port and each drive circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35. Therefore, when changing the model, if the production control board 80 is replaced with a new one, the model change can be realized without replacing the lamp driver board 35.

  The effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70 are independent boards, but are installed in a single box on the back of the gaming machine, for example.

  In this embodiment, the sound and sound output from the speaker 27 are controlled by the effect control means including the effect control CPU 101, but the effect control means outputs the sound number data to the sound output board 70. . A sound data ROM (not shown) mounted on the sound output board 70 stores a large number of data for realizing sounds and sound effects that can appear as the game progresses. It is associated with number data. Therefore, the production control means can realize sound output control only by outputting the sound number data. Note that the sound number data is, for example, 1-byte data and is transferred to the audio output board 70 via a serial signal line or a parallel signal line.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. First, main processing executed by game control means (CPU 56 and peripheral circuits such as ROM and RAM) on the main board 31 will be described. When power is turned on to the gaming machine and the input level of the reset terminal becomes high level, the CPU 56 starts main processing. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not data protection processing for the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) has been performed when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process.

  After confirming that there is a backup, the CPU 56 performs a data check of the backup RAM area (parity check in this example). In step S9, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, an initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 performs a game state restoration process for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electrical component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. Then, the saved value of the PC (program counter) stored in the backup RAM area is set in the PC, and the address is restored.

  In this embodiment, it is confirmed whether or not the data in the backup RAM area is stored by using both the backup flag and the check data, but only one of them may be used. That is, either the backup flag or the check data may be used as an opportunity for executing the state recovery process.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process. In addition, a predetermined work area (for example, a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol left middle right symbol buffer, a special symbol process flag, a payout command storage pointer, a winning ball flag, a ball out flag, a payout A work area setting process for setting an initial value to a flag (a flag for selectively performing a process according to a control state such as a stop flag) is performed. Further, a process of transmitting an initialization command for initializing the sub-boards (in this embodiment, the payout control board and the effect control board 80) to each sub-board is executed. Examples of the initialization command include a command indicating an initial symbol displayed on the variable display device 9 and a command for instructing turning off the winning ball lamp 51 and the ball-out lamp 52.

  Then, a CTC register set in the CPU 56 is set so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every 2 ms. That is, a value corresponding to 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value.

  When the execution of the initialization process is completed, the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are repeatedly executed in the main process. When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are executed, the interrupt is prohibited. When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are finished, the interrupt is permitted. The display random number is a random number for determining a symbol displayed on the variable display device 9, and the display random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number. . The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. The initial value random number is a random number for determining the initial value of the count value, such as a counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to make a big hit (a big hit determination random number generation counter). In a game control process described later, when the count value of the jackpot determination random number generation counter makes one round, an initial value is set in the counter.

Next, a timer interrupt process (game control process) executed with a timer interrupt generated every 2 ms as a trigger will be described.
When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes a game control process. In the game control process, the CPU 56 first executes a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether the power-off signal is turned on). The power-off signal is output when, for example, a voltage drop monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a drop in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals of switches such as the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switch 24a are input through the switch circuit 58, and the state determination thereof is performed (switch processing).

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

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Decide whether or not to generate a big hit (for big hit judgment)
(2) Random 2-1 to 2-3 (Random 2): For determining the left middle right of the special symbol (special symbol left middle right)
(3) Random 3: Determines the combination of special symbols that generate a big hit (for determining big hit symbols)
(4) Random 4: Determine the variation pattern of the special symbol (for variation pattern determination)
(5) Random 5: Decide whether or not to reach when no big hit is generated (for reach determination)
(6) Random 6: Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(7) Random 7: Determine initial value of random 1 (for determining random 1 initial value)
(8) Random 8: Determine initial value of random 6 (for determining random 6 initial value)
(9) Random 9: Decide whether to execute the notice effect (for notice determination)
(10) Random 10: Determine the effect mode of the notice effect (for determining the notice mode)

  In the determination random number update process in the game control process, the CPU 56 determines (1) big hit determination random number, (3) big hit symbol determination random number, (6) normal determination random number per symbol, and (9) advance notice. A counter for generating a random number for determination is incremented (added by 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers or initial value random numbers. In addition, in order to improve the game effect, random numbers related to ordinary symbols other than the random numbers (1) to (10) are also used.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing. In the special symbol process control, corresponding processing is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 in a predetermined order according to the gaming state. The value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state. Also, normal symbol process processing is performed. In the normal symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of setting an effect control command related to the special symbol in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 and sending the effect control command (special symbol command control process). In addition, an effect control command related to the normal symbol is set in a predetermined area of the RAM 55, and an effect control command is sent (normal symbol command control process).

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

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on the detection signals of the prize opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a.

  And CPU56 performs the memory | storage process which checks the increase / decrease in the number-of-start winning memory | storage number. In the storage process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the count value of the start prize storage counter is the same as the count value of the previous start prize storage counter, and if not, that is, if the start prize storage number has changed. Then, the address of the command transmission table for designating the start prize memory corresponding to the number of start prize memories is set in the pointer, and the command setting process which is a subroutine is executed. Then, the count value of the starting winning memory counter is set in the previous starting winning memory counter. Thus, in the storage process, when the start winning memory number changes, an effect control command for designating the start winning memory number is transmitted to the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80.

  In addition, a test terminal process, which is a process of outputting a test signal for enabling the control state of the gaming machine to be confirmed outside the gaming machine, is executed. Furthermore, a drive command is issued to the solenoid circuit 59 when a predetermined condition is satisfied. The solenoid circuit 59 drives the solenoids 16, 21, and 21A in response to a drive command in order to open or close the variable winning ball device 15 or the opening / closing plate 20, or to switch the game ball passage in the special winning opening. To do. After that, the interrupt permission state is set.

  In this embodiment, the game control process as described above is executed, and this game control process is started every 2 ms. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process processing program executed by the CPU 56. The process shown in FIG. 4 is a specific process of the special symbol process in the game control process described above. When performing the special symbol process, the CPU 56 performs a variable shortening timer subtraction process (step S310) to detect that a game ball has won the start winning opening 14 provided in the game board 6. If the switch 14a is turned on, that is, if a start winning that causes the game ball to win the start winning opening 14 is generated (step S311), the start opening switch passing process (step S312) is performed, and then according to the internal state. Any one of steps S300 to S308 is performed. The variation shortening timer is a timer for setting the variation time when the variation time of the special symbol is shortened.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Waits until the variable symbol variable display can be started. When the special symbol variable display can be started, the start winning memory number is confirmed. If the start winning memorization number is not 0, it is determined whether or not to win the game as a result of variable display of special symbols. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S301.

  Special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S301): The stop symbol of the left middle right symbol after variable display of the special symbol is determined. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S302.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S302): A variation pattern (variable display mode) of variable display of special symbols is determined according to a random 4 value. Also, a variable time timer is started. At this time, the left middle right final stop symbol and information for instructing the variation mode (variation pattern) are transmitted to the effect control board 80. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S303.

  Special symbol variation process (step S303): When a predetermined time (the time indicated by the variation time timer in step S302) elapses, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S304.

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): Control is performed so that all symbols displayed on the variable display device 9 are stopped. Specifically, it sets to the state where the production control command which shows special symbol stop is transmitted. If the stop symbol is a combination of jackpot symbols, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S305. If not, the internal state is updated to shift to step S300.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S305): Control for opening the large winning opening is started. Specifically, the counter and the flag are initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special winning opening. Also, the process timer sets the execution time of the big prize opening opening process and sets the big hit flag. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S306.

  Processing for opening a special prize opening (step S306): A process for sending a production control command for displaying a big prize round to the production control board 80, a process for confirming the completion of the closing condition for the special prize opening, and the like are performed. When the closing condition for the last big prize opening is satisfied, the internal state is updated to shift to step S307.

  Specific area valid time process (step S307): The presence / absence of passing through the V winning switch 22 is monitored, and a process of confirming that the big hit gaming state continuation condition is satisfied is performed. If the condition for continuing the big hit gaming state is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state is updated to shift to step S305. In addition, when the big hit gaming state continuation condition is not satisfied within a predetermined effective time, or when all rounds are finished, the internal state is updated to shift to step S308.

  Big hit end processing (step S308): Control for causing the effect control means to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Then, the internal state is updated so as to shift to step S300.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process (step S312). In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the start winning memorized number has reached 4 which is the maximum value (step S111). If the starting winning memory number has not reached 4, the starting winning memory number is increased by 1 (step S112), each random number value such as a big hit determination random number is extracted, and stored corresponding to the starting winning memory value Store in the area (special symbol determination buffer) (step S113). In this example, a special symbol determination buffer in the ring buffer format is used. Note that extracting a random number means reading a count value from a counter for generating a random number and setting the read count value as a random value. In step S113, random numbers 1 to 5 are extracted from the random numbers shown in FIG. Then, a variation time reduction determination time for determining whether or not to reduce the variation time is set (step S114). Further, a notice setting process is executed (step S115).

  In this embodiment, there are twelve special symbols “0” to “11” in the middle left and right, respectively, and the display of the special symbols changes sequentially from “0” in the variable display device 9. Variations in special symbols are realized. Note that the display of the display symbols may change discontinuously during the change of the special symbols. In addition, when the final stop symbols (determined symbols) of the special symbols are aligned to the middle left and right, a big hit is obtained, and when the left and right are aligned, reach is achieved. In the case of a big hit, when the odd symbols are arranged, the game shifts to a high probability state after the big hit game ends. Further, when a big hit occurs in the high probability state or when a special symbol is changed a predetermined number of times, the high probability state ends and returns to the low probability state.

  6 and 7 are flowcharts showing the advance notice setting process (step S115) in the start port switch passing process. In the advance notice setting process, the CPU 56 reads out an execution number counter in which the remaining number of executions of the advance notice effect for realizing the continuous advance notice effect is stored (step S201).

  When the count value of the read execution number counter is 0 (step S202), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the gaming state is a probability change state (step S202a). Whether or not the state is the probability variation state is confirmed by, for example, the state of the probability variation flag or the count value of the rotation speed counter (whether or not the value is 0). If it is under certainty, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the rotation number counter is 4 or less (step S202b).

  The rotation speed counter is a counter that counts the remaining number of times of variable display of special symbols in a state where the probability variation state is maintained. In other words, in this example, when the probability change state is reached, a big hit is made with a high probability until the variable symbol special display is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times). When the predetermined number of variable displays ends, the probability change state ends. However, if a probabilistic big hit occurs in the predetermined number of variable displays, a big hit is made with a high probability until the variable symbol special display is executed a predetermined number of times thereafter.

  If the engine speed is not changing or the rotational speed counter is not 4 or less, the CPU 56 sets the count value of the start winning counter to the processing number (step S203) and sets the count value of the inspection number counter to 0 which is an initial value. Setting is made (step S204). The inspection number counter is a counter for counting the number of repetitions of loop processing in steps S205 to S210 described later.

  Next, the CPU 56 adds 1 to the count value of the inspection number counter (step S205), and the big hit determination disorder stored in the storage area corresponding to the number of start winning memories = (the number indicated by the count value of the inspection number counter). The numerical value is read (step S206), and the big hit determination module is executed. That is, the big hit determination subroutine is called (step S207). In the big hit determination module, when it is determined that no big hit is made based on the read big hit determination random number value (N in step S208), the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the number of processes (step S209), and the processing after the subtraction If the number is not 0, the process proceeds to step S205 (Y in step S210).

  That is, in this example, the processes in steps S205 to S210 are repeatedly executed until the number of processes becomes zero. However, in this example, when it is determined that a big hit is made in step S207 in the loop processing of step S205 to step S210 (Y in step S208), the loop processing is terminated at that point. That is, in step S205 to step S210, until it is determined that there is a big hit among the variable displays on hold, or until the number of processes becomes 0 (all determinations on the variable display on hold are completed). Until each jackpot determination random number value stored in each storage area corresponding to the start winning memory number = 1 to 4 is read out in order from the earlier extracted time, and whether or not it is a jackpot Is determined.

  If it is determined in step S207 that the game is a big hit (Y in step S208), the CPU 56 sets the notice determination table when there is a big win (see the table on the right side of FIG. 9C) as the use table (step S211). ).

  If the count value of the inspection number counter is 2 or more (Y in step S212), the CPU 56 extracts a preliminary determination determination random number (step S213), and the preliminary determination determination random number is set in the usage table. If it coincides with any of the values set in the determination table, it is decided to make a hold display advance notice (step S214). In this example, when it is decided to give a hold display notice, it is decided to make a continuous notice.

  When it is determined that the hold display advance notice and the continuous advance notice are to be performed (Y in step S215), the CPU 56 sets the count value of the inspection number counter to the execution number counter that counts the remaining number of continuous notice announcements in the continuous notice. Is set (step S216). Next, the CPU 56 extracts a random number value for determining the notice mode, and determines a notice mode (notice pattern) for the continuous notice and a notice mode for the hold display notice based on the random number for determining the notice mode (step S217).

  For the determination of the notice pattern in step S217, for example, a notice pattern determination table (not shown) to which comparison values to be compared with the extracted value of the notice mode determination random number are assigned is used. In the notice pattern determination table, for example, combinations of notice effects for a continuous number of times using four kinds of notice effects A to D are set in advance, and comparison values are assigned to the combinations. Therefore, in step S217, the notice effect for the continuous number of times is determined.

  Specifically, when “4” is set in the execution number counter in step S216, a notice pattern determination table in which combinations of notice effects for four times are set in advance is used and extracted in step S217. Each notice effect to be executed in each of the four variable displays is determined by the notice mode determination random value. For example, it is determined that the continuous notice effect is performed by executing the notice effect continuously in the order of the notice effect A, the notice effect C, the notice effect B, and the notice effect D.

  For the determination of the notice mode of the hold display notice in step S217, a notice type determination table (not shown) in which a comparison value to be compared with the extracted value of the notice form determination random number is assigned is used. In this example, two types of notice modes, a notice effect 1 and a notice effect 2, are set in the notice type determination table, and a comparison value is assigned to each notice aspect. Note that the comparison value is distributed to each notice mode so that the notice type selection rate shown in FIG.

  Note that the hold display advance notice is a notice for notifying the player that a big hit will occur in the variable display corresponding to the hold storage whose display form has been changed by changing the display form of the start memory display area 18. It means directing. In this embodiment, the display mode of the start memory display area 18 corresponding to the reserved memory where a big hit will occur is changed. That is, the display mode of the start memory display area 18 is set to a special hold display mode.

  If it is determined in step S212 that the count value of the inspection number counter is not 2 or more, or if it is determined in step S215 that no hold display notice is given, the CPU 56 proceeds to the process of step S236.

  Further, when there is no big hit in the hold storage (N in step S210), the CPU 56 sets the notice determination table at the time of no big hit (the table on the left side of FIG. 9C) as the use table. (Step S225).

  Then, if the count value of the start winning counter is 2 or more (step S226), the CPU 56 extracts a preliminary determination determination random number (step S227), and the preliminary determination determination random number is set as a use table. If it matches with any of the values set in, it is decided to make a hold display advance notice (step S228). In addition, when it is decided to make a hold display notice, it is decided to make a continuous notice.

  When it is determined that the hold display advance notice and the continuous advance notice are to be performed (Y in step S229), the CPU 56 sets the count value of the start winning counter to the execution number counter that counts the remaining number of continuous notice effects in the continuous notice. Is set (step S230). Next, the CPU 56 extracts a notice mode determining random number value, and determines a notice mode (notification pattern) of continuous notice based on the notice mode determining random number (step S231).

  For the determination of the notice pattern in step S231, for example, a notice pattern determination table (not shown) to which comparison values to be compared with the extracted value of the notice mode determination random number are assigned is used. In the notice pattern determination table, for example, combinations of notice effects for a continuous number of times using four kinds of notice effects A to D are set in advance, and comparison values are assigned to the combinations. Therefore, in step S231, the notice effect for the continuous number of times is determined.

  For the determination of the notice mode of the hold display notice in step S231, a notice type determination table (not shown) in which a comparison value to be compared with the extracted value of the notice form determination random number is assigned is used. In this example, two types of notice modes, a notice effect 1 and a notice effect 2, are set in the notice type determination table, and a comparison value is assigned to each notice aspect. Note that the comparison value is distributed to each notice mode so that the notice type selection rate shown in FIG.

  If it is determined in step S226 that the count value of the start winning counter is not 2 or more, or if it is determined in step S229 that the hold display advance notice is not performed, the CPU 56 proceeds to the process of step S236.

  When the notice mode of the hold display notice is determined in step S217 or step S231, when the CPU 56 decides the notice effect 1 (Y in step S232), the CPU 56 sets the address of the command transmission table designated for the notice effect 1 as a pointer ( Step S233), a command set process that is a subroutine is executed (step S235). When the notice effect 2 is determined (N in step S232), the address of the command transmission table designated for the notice effect 2 is set in the pointer (step S234), and a command setting process which is a subroutine is executed (step S235).

  An effect control command is transmitted to the effect control board 80 by executing the command set process. In this embodiment, each effect control command that can be transmitted to the effect control means is stored in the command transmission table of the ROM 54. In the command set process, the CPU 56 sets the effect control command data stored at the address of the ROM 54 indicated by the pointer as an output port for outputting the effect control command data, and indicates that the command is transmitted. An effect control INT signal is output.

  On the other hand, when it is determined not to perform the hold display advance notice, the CPU 56 sets the address of the command transmission table with no designation of the advance notice effect to the pointer (step S236), and executes the command set process which is a subroutine. (Step S237).

  Through the processing as described above, in this embodiment, when there is a big hit during hold storage, continuous notice and hold display notice can be executed. Further, in this embodiment, even when there is no big hit, that is, even when there is no big hit during the hold storage, the continuous notice and the hold display notice can be executed. However, as a configuration for performing determination processing using different notice determination tables in step S214 and step S228, there was a case where a big hit was made during hold storage compared to a case where there was no big hit during hold storage. In this case, a continuous notice and a hold display notice appear with high probability.

  It should be noted that the control may be performed so that the continuous notice and the hold display notice can be executed only when there is a big hit in the hold storage. Furthermore, even if the hold display notice effect is executed in a gaming machine that does not perform the continuous notice effect, the interest of the game can be enhanced.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the fluctuation start process. The variation start process is a process that collectively shows the special symbol normal process (step S300), the special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S301), and the variation pattern setting process (step S302) in the special symbol process.

  In the variation start process, the CPU 56 can start the variation of the special symbol (for example, when the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating Step S300) (Step S51), the start winning memory is stored. The value of the number (holding storage number) is confirmed (step S52). Specifically, the count value of the start winning counter is confirmed. The case where the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300 is a case where the symbol is not changed in the variable display device 9 and the game is not a big hit game.

  If the starting winning memory number is not 0, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = 1 is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S53), and the starting winning memory number Is decreased by 1 (the start winning memory counter is decremented by 1), and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S54). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the start winning memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in the storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = n−1. Therefore, the order in which the random number values stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the respective start winning memory numbers are extracted always matches the order of the starting winning memory numbers = 1, 2, 3, and 4. It has become. In other words, in this example, every time the variable display start condition is satisfied, the CPU 56 executes a process of shifting the contents of each storage area. It can be easily specified which start winning memory the result corresponds to.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads the jackpot determination random number from the random number storage buffer (step S55), and executes the jackpot determination module (step S56). If it is not decided to win, the reach determination random number is read from the random number storage buffer and the reach determination module is executed (step S57).

  When the presence / absence of a big hit (determined if there is a loss) is determined, the CPU 56 stores a random 3 stored value (in the case of a big win) stored in the storage area corresponding to the start winning memory number = 1, or The stored value of random 2 (in the case of outliers) is extracted, and the special symbol stop symbol is determined (step S58).

  Further, the CPU 56 loads the execution number counter (step S59), subtracts 1 if the count value is not 0 (steps S60 and S61), and extracts the variation pattern determination random number from the variation pattern determination random number counter (step S60). S62), a variation pattern is determined according to the extracted variation pattern determination random number. Specifically, in step S62, among the plurality of types of variation patterns prepared in advance, out of the comparison values arranged in a predetermined variation pattern selection table, the variation pattern determination It is determined that the fluctuation pattern is associated with a comparison value that matches the value of the random number. In this example, when the notice effect by the continuous notice effect is executed, the variation pattern including the notice effect is selected.

  When the variation pattern is determined, the CPU 56 sets the variation time data of the determined variation pattern in the special symbol process timer (step S64). Then, the CPU 56 sets the address of the determined command transmission table for specifying the variation pattern in the pointer (step S65), and executes a command setting process which is a subroutine (step S66). Further, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the count value of the rotation speed counter if it is under certainty (step S67). Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S303 (step S68).

  FIG. 9A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a jackpot determination table used in the jackpot determination module. FIG. 9B is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a reach determination table used in the reach determination module. FIG. 9C is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notice determination table used in the notice setting process. FIG. 9D is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a notice type selection rate when there is a big hit. FIG. 9E is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the notice type selection rate when there is no big hit.

  As shown in FIG. 9A, in this embodiment, the big hit determination value is “3” at the low probability (non-probability change), and the big hit determination value is “3” at the high probability (probability change). , “7”, “79”, “103”, “107”. As shown in FIG. 9B, the reach determination values are “0”, “1”, and “11” when the probability is low (non-probability change), and the reach determination value is “0” when the probability is high. , “1”, “9”, “11”, “12”. Further, as shown in FIG. 9 (C), when there is something that does not become a big hit in the reserved memory but becomes a reach, the notice determination values are “0”, “7”, “17”, and the big hit during the reserved memory. When there is something that becomes, the notice determination values are “0” to “30”, “70” to “99”.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 9D, in this embodiment, when the hold display advance notice is executed when there is a big hit, it is determined to be the notice mode of the notice effect 1 with a high probability of 60/64. Then, it is determined to be the notice mode of the notice effect 2 with a low probability of 4/64. Further, as shown in FIG. 9 (E), in this embodiment, when the hold display advance notice is executed when there is no big hit, it is decided to make the notice mode of the notice effect 1 with a low probability of 4/64. Then, it is determined to be the notice mode of the notice effect 2 with a high probability of 60/64. In other words, in this example, the notice effect 1 is a notice mode with relatively high reliability, and the notice effect 2 is used as a notice form with low reliability.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the game state designation process. The game state designation process is executed in, for example, a game control process. In the game state designation process, if the probability change flag is turned on (Y in step S171), the CPU 56 sets the address of the command transmission table for the probability change state start designation to the pointer (step S172), and a command set process that is a subroutine. Is executed (step S173). The probability variation flag is a flag indicating whether or not the current gaming state is a probability variation state. The probability variation flag is turned on when the probability variation state is started (when the probability variation symbol is a big hit at the time of non-probability variation and the big hit game is finished), and when the probability variation state is terminated (a certain number of times continuously during the probability variation). When the jackpot game of the last non-probable jackpot is over, or when the variable display effect is executed a predetermined number of times when a short-time effect is executed with a predetermined number of times as the upper limit at the time of probability change) It is turned off.

  Then, the CPU 56 sets an initial value in the rotation number counter (step S174). The initial value of the rotation number counter is 100 in this example. Therefore, 100 is set in the rotation number counter in step S174.

  Next, a method for sending a control command from the game control means to the effect control means will be described. In this embodiment, the effect control command is transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 through eight signal lines of the effect control signals D0 to D7. Further, between the main board 31 and the effect control board 80, a signal line of the effect control INT signal for transmitting a strobe signal (effect control INT signal) is wired. That is, the control command is transmitted through eight signal lines and one INT signal line.

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

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

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

  Here, an example of the contents of the effect control command sent to the effect control board 80 will be described. The effect control commands for designating the variation pattern of the special symbol in the variable display device 9 that variably displays the special symbol are commands 8000 (H) to 8058 (H). Note that a command for specifying a variation pattern (variation pattern command) also serves as a variation start instruction.

  The effect control command related to the variation pattern of the normal symbol is a command 88XX (H) (X = any value of 4 bits). The effect control command for designating the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a command 89XX (H). An effect control command for instructing stop of variable symbol display is represented by command 8A00 (H).

  The effect control command for designating the left middle right stop symbol of the special symbol is represented by commands 91XX (H), 92XX (H), and 93XX (H). A symbol number is set in “XX”. Also, the effect control command for instructing the stop of the variable display of the special symbol is command A000 (H).

  An effect control command for designating a customer waiting demonstration is represented by a command D000 (H).

  An effect control command indicating the number of start memory display areas 18 for changing the display color in the display area for displaying the start winning memory number in the variable display device 9 is a command E0XX (H). For example, the effect control means changes the display color of the number of start memory display areas 18 designated by “XX (H)” in each start memory display area 18. That is, the command E0XX (H) is a command for instructing control of a display area provided for informing information on the number of reserved items. Note that the command related to the number of start memory display areas 18 for changing the display color may be configured to indicate increase / decrease in the number of areas for changing the display color. In this embodiment, since the upper limit value of the start winning memory is 4, “XX” is any one of 0-4.

  The probability change state start command is command E400 (H). This command is an effect control command transmitted when the gaming state changes from the low probability state to the high probability state in the gaming state designation process (FIG. 10). Although not used in this example, a probability change state end command (command E401 (H)) transmitted when the gaming state changes from a high probability state to a low probability state may be used.

  Command E501 (H) is a notice effect 1 designation command, command E502 (H) is a notice effect 2 designation command, and command E503 (H) is a notice effect non-designated command. These commands are effect control commands transmitted according to the determination result in the advance notice setting process.

  When the effect control means of the effect control board 80 receives the effect control command from the game control means of the main board 31, the display control unit 9 changes the display state of the variable display device 9 and the normal symbol display 10 according to the effect control command, The display state of the lamp / LED is changed, and the sound number data is output to the sound output board 70 if necessary. Control commands other than the control commands described above are also transmitted from the game control means to the effect control means. For example, a control command indicating the display state of the winning ball lamp 51 or the ball break lamp 52 and the number of lighting of the normal symbol start memory display 41, and a more detailed presentation control command related to the big hit game are also sent from the game control means to the presentation control means. Sent to.

  The variable display start designation command indicating the start of variable display and the variable display mode designation command capable of specifying the variable display mode are realized by the variation pattern designation effect control command, and the identification information designation command capable of identifying the display result of the identification information. Is realized by an effect control command for designating the left symbol, middle symbol, and right symbol, and a variable display end designating command indicating the end of variable display is realized by an effect control command for stopping the special symbol. In this embodiment, the production control command for specifying the variation pattern is also used as the variable display start specifying command for indicating the start of variable display and the variable display mode specifying command for specifying the variable display mode. The designation command and the variable display mode designation command that can specify the variable display mode may be separated.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. First, main processing executed by the effect control CPU 101 will be described. In the main process, an initialization process is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, initializing a 2 ms timer for determining the start interval of the production control, and the like. Thereafter, the production control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for confirming monitoring of the timer interrupt flag. When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag and executes the following effect control process.

  In this embodiment, the timer interrupt takes every 2 ms. That is, the effect control process is activated every 2 ms. In this embodiment, only the flag is set in the timer interrupt process, and the specific effect control process is executed in the main process, but the effect control process may be executed in the timer interrupt process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command (command analysis execution process). Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing. In the effect control process, a process corresponding to the current control state is selected and executed from among the processes corresponding to the control state. Thereafter, the process returns to the process for checking the timer interrupt flag.

  Next, an effect control command reception process from the main board 31 will be described. The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the command reception buffer. In this example, a command reception buffer of a ring buffer type capable of storing six 2-byte configuration effect control commands is used. Therefore, the command reception buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of reception command buffers 1 to 12. A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. It is not always necessary to use the ring buffer format. For example, three symbol designating command storage areas (2 × 3 = 6 byte command receiving buffer) and other command storing areas for designating other variation patterns ( (2 × 1 = 2-byte command reception buffer).

  An INT signal for effect control from the main board 31 is input to the interrupt terminal of the CPU 101 for effect control. For example, when the INT signal from the main board 31 is turned on, the production control CPU 101 is interrupted. Then, the effect control CPU 101 executes an effect control command reception process in the interrupt process. In the reception process of the effect control command, the effect control CPU 101 stores the received effect control command data in the reception command buffer indicated by the command reception number counter.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a specific example of command analysis processing. The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms the content of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

  In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S611). Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. When the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer (step S612). When read, the value of the read pointer is incremented by one.

  If the received effect control command is an effect control command for specifying the probability change state start (step S613), the effect control CPU 101 sets a probability change state start specification flag (step S614).

  If the received effect control command is an effect control command for designating the start prize memory number (step S618), the effect control CPU 101 counts the start prize memory number in the start prize number storage area in the RAM as specified by the effect control command. (Step S619). Further, the number of start memory display areas 18 whose display color is changed (displayed on) in the variable display device 9 is updated (step S620). In this embodiment, the display color of the on display is yellow, and the display color of the off display (a state in which there is no reserved storage) is blue. Further, the value of the notice random number counter is incremented by 1 (step S621). When the count value of the notice random number counter exceeds the maximum value, the value is returned to zero. Further, when a plurality of notice random number counters are provided, for example, the notice random number counter n (in the case where four notice random number counters are provided is provided) so that the advance of each notice random number counter is not synchronized as much as possible. When the count value of n = 1 to 3) is returned to 0, the count value of the notice random number counter n + 1 may be incremented by one.

  Further, when the number of start winning memories is decreased (step S622), if the hold display advance notice execution flag is set, that is, if the hold display advance notice is being executed (step S623), the object of the hold display advance notice is set. The start memory display area 18 is shifted by one (step S624). Specifically, if the fourth start memory display area 18 is displayed in red before the update in step S624, the third start memory display area 18 is displayed in red. When the third start memory display area 18 is displayed in red, the second start memory display area 18 is displayed in red. When the second start memory display area 18 is displayed in red, the first start memory display area 18 is displayed in red.

  When the number of start winning memories decreases during the execution of the hold display notice by the processing of steps S622 to S624, the part of the four start memory display areas 18 where the hold display notice is made is shifted by one.

  Further, when the portion for which the hold display advance notice is made disappears (step S625), the hold display advance notice execution flag is reset (step S626). The case where the portion on which the hold display advance notice is made disappears is a case where the change of the special symbol is started based on the hold storage (for example, the hold storage that becomes a big hit) that triggered the execution of the hold display advance notice. In this embodiment, the CPU 101 for effect control stores the start prize memory number added by 1 when the command for specifying the notice effect 1 or the notice effect 2 received from the game control means is stored in the remaining number counter. Every time variable display is started, the count value of the remaining number counter is decremented by 1. Therefore, the production control CPU 101 can determine whether or not the reserved storage display portion where the reserved display notice is made disappears by checking the remaining number counter. For example, when the start winning memory number is updated to 3 by the command for specifying the notice effect 1 received from the game control means, the third reserved memory is the reserved memory display that is the target of the reserved display notice. When the display effect is executed three times, the remaining number counter becomes 0, and the hold storage display for which the hold display advance notice is made disappears.

  If the received effect control command is an effect control command designated by the notice effect 1 (step S631), the effect control CPU 101 starts a hold display notice in the effect form of the notice effect 1 (step S632). Specifically, 1 is added to the number of start winning memories, and the hold memory display corresponding to the added hold memory is displayed in the effect mode of the notice effect 1.

  If the received effect control command is an effect control command designated for the notice effect 2 (step S633), the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the count value of the sub rotation counter is not zero. It is confirmed whether or not it is in the middle, and if it is under certainty change (Y in step S634), the hold display notice is started in the effect form of the notice effect 1 (step S635). Specifically, 1 is added to the number of start winning memories, and the hold memory display corresponding to the added hold memory is displayed in the effect mode of the notice effect 1. On the other hand, if the probability change is not in progress (N in step S634), the hold display notice is started in the effect form of the notice effect 2 (step S636). Specifically, 1 is added to the number of start winning memories, and the hold memory display corresponding to the added hold memory is displayed in the effect mode of the notice effect 2.

  In other words, if the received effect control command is the effect control command specified by the notice effect 2, the effect mode of the notice effect 1 is selected if it is the probability variation state mode, and the effect of the notice effect 2 is selected if it is the normal state mode. An aspect is selected. Therefore, in this example, the effect mode of the notice effect varies depending on the selected effect mode (probability change mode, normal state mode).

  If the received command read in step S612 is another effect control command, a flag corresponding to the received command is set (step S638). When the other effect control command is a variation pattern command, the variation pattern command reception flag is set, and the EXT data indicated by “XX” in the effect control command (80XX (H)) is stored. Process. When the other effect control command is a special symbol left designation effect control command, data indicating the left, middle, and right symbols indicated by “XX” in the effect control command (91XX (H)) is stored in the RAM. In the left, middle, and right symbol storage areas are stored.

  FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the notice mode determination table. As shown in FIG. 13, in this embodiment, at the normal probability (when it is a normal state that is not a probabilistic change state), when an effect control command designated by the notice effect 1 is received, the effect form of the notice effect 1 is suspended. When the display notice effect is executed and the effect control command specified by the notice effect 2 is received, the hold display notice effect is executed in the effect form of the notice effect 2. That is, at the normal probability, the hold display advance notice is executed in an effect mode corresponding to the received effect control command.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 13, in this embodiment, at the time of a high probability (when it is in a probable variation state), when an effect control command designated for the notice effect 1 is received, the effect display of the notice effect 1 is suspended and displayed. When the notice effect is executed and the effect control command designated by the notice effect 2 is received, the hold display notice effect is executed in the effect form of the notice effect 1. That is, at the time of high probability, regardless of whether the received effect control command for specifying the notice effect is the effect control command for specifying the notice effect 1 or the effect control command for specifying the notice effect 2, the effect mode of the notice effect 1 is always used. A hold display notice effect is executed.

  When an effect control command with no designation of the notice effect is received, the hold display notice is not executed as shown in FIG. 13, and the start winning memory number is incremented by 1, and the updated start winning memory number is displayed.

  FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing a display mode of the hold display notice. FIG. 14A shows an example in which the third hold display is made in the display mode of the notice effect 2. Here, a star-shaped figure is displayed according to the display mode of the notice effect 2. FIG. 14B shows an example when the fourth hold display is made in the display mode of the notice effect 1. Here, a double circle figure is displayed depending on the display mode of the notice effect 1. That is, when the hold display is displayed in a star shape, it means that it is foretold that the variable display corresponding to the hold storage will be a big hit. Further, when the hold display is displayed as a double circle, it means that it is foretold that the variable display corresponding to the hold storage will be a big hit with a high probability.

  In this embodiment, the display mode of the hold display notice is a star shape or a double circle, but it can be distinguished from the display form of the start memory display area 18 that is not the target of the hold display notice. Other display modes may be used. For example, the display area of the start storage display area 18 that is the subject of the hold display advance notice is made larger than the display areas of the other start storage display areas 18 or different from the display areas of the other start storage display areas 18. The display area of the start memory display area 18 that is subject to the hold display advance notice is enlarged, and the color of the display area is made different from the color of the display areas of the other start memory display areas 18. May be.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the effect control process in the main process. In the effect control process, any one of steps S800 to S805 is performed according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not an effect control command (variation pattern command) capable of specifying the fluctuation time is received by the command reception interrupt process. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a flag (variation pattern reception flag) indicating that a variation pattern command has been received is set. The variation pattern reception flag is set when it is confirmed by command analysis processing that a variation pattern designation effect control command has been received.

  All symbol variation start processing (step S801): Control is performed so that variation of the left middle right symbol is started.

  Symbol variation processing (step S802): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern, and monitors the end of the variation time. In addition, stop control of the left and right symbols is performed. When the continuous notice is executed, the notice effect is executed based on the variation pattern command. This notice effect is performed by causing a character to appear or changing the background color.

  All symbol stop waiting setting process (step S803): If an effect control command (special symbol stop effect control command) for instructing stop of all symbols is received at the end of the variation time, the symbol variation is stopped and the stop symbol ( Control to display the fixed symbol).

  Big hit display process (step S804): After the variation time is over, the control of probability variable big hit display or normal big hit display is performed.

  Big hit game processing (step S805): Control during the big hit game is performed. For example, when an effect control command for display before opening the big winning opening or display when opening the big winning opening is received, display control of the number of rounds is performed.

  FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of process data set for each variation pattern table. The process data is composed of data obtained by collecting a plurality of combinations of process timer set values and presentation control execution data. The effect control execution data includes display control execution data and lamp control execution data. As the display control execution data, data indicating the display state of the variable display device 9 during the variation period of the special symbol is set. For example, the display control execution data 1 is set with data indicating the display state of the variable display device 9 at the start of variable display. The lamp control execution data is set to data indicating the lamp / LED display state during the special symbol fluctuation period. For example, in the lamp control execution data 1, data indicating the lamp / LED display state at the start of variable display is set. When the timing for switching the display state (for example, the timing when a new character appears in the variable display device 9 or the timing when the lamp / LED is switched from the lit state to the unlit state) arrives during the special symbol fluctuation period. Controls the display state of the variable display device 9 and the lamp / LED according to the next effect control execution data in the process data. In the process timer set value, a time corresponding to the switching timing is set.

  Thus, the effect control means controls the effect means based on the program and process data stored in the ROM, and controls a plurality of effect means (in this embodiment, the variable display device 9 and the lamp / LED). The related program is stored in the ROM mounted on the effect control board 80. And ROM which stores those programs can be comprised as one ROM. Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced. Of the process data stored in the ROM, the process timer set value is shared. Therefore, the ROM capacity of the effect control means can be saved. Note that the effect control execution data may be one effect control execution data as long as the display control execution data and the lamp control execution data can be shared. As described above, in this embodiment, at least a part of data related to control of a plurality of rendering means (in this embodiment, data excluding data stored in the audio data ROM) is stored in the same ROM. can do.

  The process data shown in FIG. 16 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. Further, process data is prepared for each variation pattern. Each variation pattern is prepared according to the type of the notice effect. Therefore, the effect control CPU 101 can perform the notice effect by selecting the process data to be used according to the variation pattern and executing the effect according to the selected process data.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the variation pattern reception flag is set (step S871). If it is set, the flag is reset (step S872).

  Next, when the sub rotation counter is 0 (step S873), the CPU 56 resets the flag (step S875) if the probability variation state start designation flag is set (step S874). In addition, an initial value for the sub board is set in the sub rotation number counter (step S876), and a process of changing the background of the variable display device 9 to the background used in the probability changing state is performed (step S877). Therefore, in this example, when the probability variation state mode is selected, the background is changed to the background used in the probability variation state, and the background is displayed in the effect mode in the probability variation state mode.

  The sub-rotation speed counter is a counter used in the effect control board 80, and is a counter that indicates the remaining number of times of variable display of special symbols that are executed in the probability changing state before the probability changing state ends. In this example, when the probability change state is reached, the high probability state is maintained until 100 variable displays thereafter. In addition, the fact that the variation pattern command reception waiting process has been executed in a state where the probability variation state start designation flag is set means that the variation pattern command instructing the first variable display effect after entering the certain variation state has been received. Therefore, in step S876, 99, which is obtained by subtracting the current variable display from 100, which is the total number of variable displays, is set in the sub rotation counter.

  In this example, when the count value of the sub-rotation counter is not 0, it indicates that the control state is recognized as the probability change state on the effect control board 80, and the count value of the sub-rotation counter is 0. Sometimes, the effect control board 80 indicates that the control state is recognized as the normal state. Further, in this example, when the effect mode selected when determining the effect mode of the hold display advance notice is when the count value of the sub rotation counter is not 0 (when it is grasped that it is in a probable change state). When the count value of the sub-rotation speed counter is 0 (when it is grasped that the normal state), the normal state mode is set. In this example, on the effect control board 80, a background pattern of a different display mode is displayed depending on whether the mode is the probability variation state mode or the normal state mode, and the method for determining the effect mode of the hold display notice is different. Control is performed.

  If the sub rotation counter is not 0 (step S873), the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the count value of the sub rotation counter (step S878).

  Then, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the all symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S879).

  FIG. 18A is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a background displayed at the time of probability change (at the time of high probability). When the probability is changed, the background color is red as shown in FIG. FIG. 18B is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the background displayed at the time of non-probability change (at the normal probability). At the time of non-probability change, the background color is blue as shown in FIG.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing all symbol variation start processing (step S801) in the effect control process. In the all symbol variation start processing, the production control CPU 101 first selects process data corresponding to the variation pattern of the variable symbol special display (step S881). Then, the process timer corresponding to the production execution data 1 in the selected process data is started (step S882). Also, LCD control is performed based on the display control execution data 1 in the process data (step S883). For example, a signal corresponding to the content of the display control execution data 1 is given to the variable display device 9 using an LCD. Note that a ROM address may be set in the display control execution data, and more detailed control data may be stored in an area starting from the address, and LCD control may be performed according to the control data. Further, lamp / LED control is performed based on the lamp control execution data 1 in the process data (step S884). For example, a signal corresponding to the content of the lamp control execution data 1 is given to each lamp / LED. Note that the ROM address is set in the lamp control execution data, and more detailed control data is stored in an area starting from the address, and the lamp / LED control is performed according to the control data. Good.

  Further, the sound number data corresponding to the variation pattern is output to the sound output board 70 (step S885). In the voice output board 70, the voice synthesis IC reads data corresponding to the sound number data from the voice data ROM, generates voice and sound effects corresponding to the read data, and outputs them to the amplifier circuit. The amplifier circuit outputs to the speaker 27 an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the voice synthesis IC to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume.

  Thereafter, a variation time timer (a timer corresponding to the variation time of the special symbol) is started (step S886), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the symbol variation process (step S887). In this example, when the gaming state is a probable change state, the effect control CPU 101 changes the special symbol to a shortened time in step S886 and sets a timer corresponding to the changed shortened time. Start. The shortening time may be set on the main substrate 31 side.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the process during symbol variation (step S802) in the effect control process. In the process during symbol variation, when the process timer times out (step S851), the effect control CPU 101 switches the effect control execution data in the process data (step S852). That is, in the process data, the next set process timer is started (step S853), and LCD control is performed based on the next set display control execution data (step S854). Further, lamp / LED control is performed based on the lamp control execution data set next in the process data (step S855).

  If the variable time timer has timed out (step S856), a monitoring timer for monitoring the reception of the special symbol stop effect control command is started (step S857), and the value of the effect control process flag is awaited for all symbol stops. A value corresponding to the process is set (step S858).

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing all symbol stop waiting processing (step S803) in the effect control process. In the all symbol stop waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not an effect control command (special symbol stop effect control command) for instructing stop of all symbols has been received (step S841). If an effect control command for instructing stop of all symbols has been received, control is performed to stop the symbol with the stored stop symbol (step S842).

  When the big hit symbol is displayed in step S842 (Y in step S843), the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the big hit display process (step S804) (step S847). ).

  When the big hit symbol is not displayed in step S842 (when the missing symbol is displayed) (N in step S843), the presentation control CPU 101 determines that the variable display device 9 has the count value of the sub rotation counter 0. A process of changing the background to the background used in the normal state is performed (steps S844 and S845), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S846). . Therefore, in this example, when the normal state mode is selected, the background is changed to the background used in the normal state, and the background is displayed in the effect mode in the normal state mode.

  If an effect control command for designating all symbols to be stopped has not been received, it is confirmed whether or not the monitoring timer has timed out (step S848). If the timeout has occurred, it is determined that some abnormality has occurred, and control is performed to display an error screen on the variable display device 9 (step S849). Then, control goes to a step S843.

  FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the determination timing of the hold display notice and the background symbol change timing. In this example, when the probability change state is entered, 100 times is set in the rotation speed counter on the main board 31, and the count value of the rotation speed counter is decremented by 1 each time a fluctuation pattern command is output. In the effect control board 80, after receiving the probability change state start designation command indicating the start of the probability change state from the main board 31, the first one is subtracted from the sub rotation counter when the change pattern command is received 99 times. Is set. Thereafter, every time the variable pattern command is received and variable display is started, the count value of the sub rotation counter is decremented by one.

  In this example, in this example, since the maximum value of the number of starting winning prizes is 4, as described above, when the count value of the rotation number counter is 4 or less, whether or not to execute the notice display effect is determined. Not performed. By configuring in this way, it is possible to prevent the hold display notice effect from being performed until immediately before the end of the probability change state, or the hold display notice effect from being continuously performed before and after the end of the probability change state. Therefore, it is possible to reliably prevent the player from being confused.

  Specifically, in this example, as shown in FIG. 22 (A), when the count value of the rotation number counter is 5, a notice display effect is executed to notify that the fourth reserved memory is a big hit. Even if it is decided to do so (in the above-described embodiment, when the hold display advance notice is performed until the end of the most probable change state), the above-mentioned four variable displays in the 99th probable change state A variable display corresponding to the eye storage is displayed. Therefore, it can be avoided that the execution timing of the hold display notice effect and the timing of changing the background symbol become a timing that causes the player to be confused by the player, resulting in confusion for the player. Can be surely prevented.

On the other hand, the case where the notice display effect is executed even when the count value of the rotation number counter is 4 or less will be briefly described below.
For example, as shown in FIG. 22B, when the count value of the rotation number counter is 4, when it is decided to execute a notice display effect for notifying that the fourth reserved memory will be a big hit. Since the variable display at the 100th time in the probability changing state becomes a variable display corresponding to the above-mentioned fourth reserved memory, the above notice is a so-called gusset notice (the display result of the variable display does not become the result as previously announced. However, immediately after the display result of the variable display subject to the notice is lost, the background pattern is changed from the certain change background to the normal background. In other words, the display result of the target variable display after the appearance of the hold display notice effect has come off, but an unusual effect of changing the background pattern will appear, and the player will May be confused.

  Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 22C, when the count value of the rotation number counter is 2, it has been decided to execute a notice display effect for notifying that the third reserved memory will be a big hit. In this case, since the variable display at the 101st time in the probability change state is a variable display corresponding to the above-mentioned third hold storage, if the above-mentioned notice is a so-called gusset notice, the hold-display notice mode is the start-up display. The background symbol is changed from the probabilistic background to the normal background immediately before the variable display that is the subject of the notice after disappearing from the area 18 is started. For this reason, expectation based on the misunderstanding that the hold display notice effect has been developed is given, and the subsequent variable display result is lost, which may result in confusion for the player.

  In the gaming machine of this example described above, it is possible to prevent an effect that causes confusion for the player as described above.

In addition, although the case where the hold display notice is executed as the notice effect has been described with reference to FIG. 22, the same applies to the case where the continuous notice that is continuously executed over a plurality of variable displays is given as the notice effect. is there. For example, when the continuous notice is performed in the example shown in FIG. 22A, a continuous notice effect is executed to notify that the fourth reserved memory is a big hit when the count value of the rotation number counter is 5. Even when it is determined (when the continuous notice is made to the end of the most probable change state in the above-described embodiment), the fourth variable is displayed in the 99th variable display in the probable change state. The notice effect by the continuous notice effect corresponding to the on-hold storage is executed. Therefore, it is possible to avoid that the execution timing of the continuous notice effect and the timing of changing the background symbol become a timing that causes the player to be confused by the player, resulting in confusion for the player. Can be reliably prevented.
On the other hand, for example, in the example shown in FIG. 22B, when the continuous notice is performed, when the count value of the rotation number counter is 4, the fourth reserved storage is a big hit. When it is decided to execute the continuous notice effect to be notified, the notice effect by the continuous notice effect corresponding to the above-mentioned fourth reserved memory is executed by the 100th variable display in the probability variation state. Therefore, if the above notice is a so-called gusset notice, the background design is changed from the certain change background to the normal background immediately after the display result of the variable display that is the subject of the notice is lost. In other words, after the appearance of the continuous notice effect, the display result of the target variable display is out of date, but an unusual effect of changing the background pattern will appear and the player will be confused. There is a risk of it. In addition, even when it is assumed that continuous notice is performed in the example shown in FIG. 22C, there is a similar problem that the player may be confused.

  As described above, the remaining number of special symbol variable displays until the probability variation state ends is equal to or less than the number of prohibitions (four in the above example) based on the predetermined upper limit of the number of start winning memories. In some cases, it is configured to prohibit the execution of the hold display advance notice, so even if the remaining number of special symbol variable displays until the probability change state ends is less than the prohibited number, a new hold display advance notice will be issued. It can be prohibited to start, and the game state changes during execution of the hold display notice, and the effect of the hold display notice changes as a result of the change of the background design. It is possible to prevent the player from being confused and to execute the hold display notice effect without causing confusion.

  In the above-described embodiment, the remaining number of the special symbol variable display until the probability variation state ends is the number of prohibitions based on a predetermined upper limit value of the start winning memory number (four times in the above example). In the following cases, it was configured to prohibit the execution of the pending display advance notice, but the number of executions of the variable display for which the pending display advance notice is executed remains the variable display of the special symbol until the probability change state ends. When the number of times exceeds the number of times, a new execution of the hold display notice may be prohibited. In other words, when the variable display for a plurality of times when the hold display advance notice is executed is executed beyond the end of the probability change state, the execution of the hold display advance notice may be prohibited. Even when configured in this way, it is possible to prohibit the hold display advance notice from being executed before and after the end of the probability change state, the gaming state changes during the execution of the hold display advance notice, It is possible to prevent the presentation mode of the hold display notice from changing due to the change of the background design, and it is possible to execute the hold display notice effect without causing confusion for the player. .

  The number of prohibitions is, for example, the number indicated by the upper limit value of the hold memory to be notified of the hold notice display (for example, the same as the upper limit value of the hold number for which the hold memory display is performed four times), and a predetermined number is added to the upper limit value. The predetermined number is determined in advance (for example, 8 times). In the case of continuous notice, the number of prohibitions is, for example, the upper limit value of the continuous display number of the variable display for which the notice effect is given by the continuous notice (for example, four times, the same value as the upper limit value of the number of start winning memories), It is determined in advance as a number obtained by adding a predetermined number to the value (for example, 8 times).

  As described above, if the number of prohibitions is set to a number obtained by adding a predetermined number to the upper limit value of the number of holds for which the hold storage display is performed, the notice effect by the notice of the hold display and the control for changing the background pattern by the change of the game state Further, it is possible to prevent the game from being continuously executed, and it is possible to more reliably prevent the player from being confused. The same applies to continuous notices.

  In addition, as described above, if the number of prohibitions is set as the upper limit value of the number of holds for which the hold storage display is performed, a new hold display notice is provided to prevent the gaming state from changing during the execution of the hold display notice. The period during which the execution of the game is prohibited can be suppressed to a minimum period, and the interest of the game can be prevented from deteriorating. The same applies to continuous notices.

  In the above-described embodiment, the configuration for determining whether or not to perform the hold display advance notice is mainly described based on the remaining number of variable symbol variable displays until the probability change state ends. Not only the notice but also any notice effect that is executed during a period in which a plurality of variable displays are executed can be applied, for example, variable over a plurality of variable displays. It may be a continuous notice in which a notice effect is continuously performed using a display device 9, a light emitter such as a lamp, and an effect device such as a speaker 27.

  In addition, as described above, when the remaining number of special symbol variable displays until the probability variation state ends is equal to or less than a predetermined upper limit of the number of start winning memories, it is determined whether or not to execute the hold display advance notice. Therefore, it is possible to prevent unnecessary processing from being executed and to perform control efficiently. That is, when it is determined that the hold display advance notice is not executed, the lottery process for determining whether or not the hold display advance notice is performed is a wasteful process and is not executed. For this reason, control is performed efficiently.

  Note that the lottery process for determining whether or not to hold the hold display notice is executed regardless of the remaining number of variable displays, and the remaining number of special symbol variable displays until the probability change state ends is determined in advance. When the number of times of prohibition is less than or equal to the number of prohibited times, the hold display notice effect is not executed regardless of the lottery result by the lottery process (for example, even if the determination result that the hold display notice is given in steps S214 and S215 is made) In step S216, the number of executions may not be set in the execution number counter). Alternatively, when the remaining number of variable symbol special displays until the probability change state ends is equal to or less than a predetermined prohibition count, a lottery result indicating that the hold display advance notice is not executed is always made (ie, step S214, In S215, a determination result indicating that the hold display notice is not always made may be made).

  In addition, as described above, the game control unit distinguishes and transmits the effect control command for instructing execution of the hold display notice with different reliability, and the effect control unit is configured so that the game state is in the normal state (normal state). Mode), the hold display notice is executed in a notice manner according to the instruction from the game control means, and when the game state is a high probability state (probability change state mode), regardless of the notice form designated by the game control means. Since the hold display notice is executed in a predetermined notice form, the hold display notice without causing confusion for the player can be performed without complicating the control for executing the hold display notice.

  In addition, as described above, the game control means performs a determination process for determining whether or not to execute the hold display notice, and transmits an effect control command indicating the determination result to the effect control means, and the effect control means However, since it is configured to select an effect mode corresponding to the effect mode based on the determination result indicated by the received effect control command and execute the hold display notice effect in the selected effect mode, the control burden is dispersed. It is possible to prevent the control burden from being biased.

  In addition, as described above, the effect control means is configured to select the effect mode of the hold display notice corresponding to the game state, so that the game state can correspond to the effect mode of the hold display notice. It is possible to allow the player to easily grasp the transition of the gaming state. Specifically, when the probability variation state has a high probability of being a big hit, a high-probability notice that is used when a big hit is made with a high probability is always performed. Since it is configured to perform a high-probability notice or a normal-time notice, it is possible to make the gaming state correspond to the presentation mode of the hold display notice, and to easily grasp the transition of the game state according to the appearance form of the hold display notice be able to.

  Further, as described above, the game control means transmits a probability change state start command for designating that the probability change state has been reached, and the probability control state ends based on the fact that the effect control means has received the probability change state start command. Set the initial value (for example, 99) of the remaining number of special symbol variable displays until it is changed, and change the number of remaining times (for example, subtract 1) each time the special symbol variable display is executed. Therefore, the game control means and the effect control means can grasp the game state in common without increasing the control load of the game control means. Therefore, it is possible to prevent erroneous notification.

  Further, as described above, the game control means transmits a probability change state start command and a variation pattern command instructing the start of variable display of identification information, and the effect control means receives the probability change state start command. Also, since it is configured to change the background mode by receiving the variation pattern command, the effect of changing the background mode is executed by suppressing the player from feeling uncomfortable as much as possible. can do. That is, since the background can be changed when the variable display starts, the display on the variable display device 9 in the game can be performed smoothly.

  In the above-described embodiment, the game state grasped by the effect control board 80 is changed based on the reception of the effect control command transmitted every time the game state changes. However, each time the variable display of the identification information is started, a game state command indicating whether or not the probability change state is transmitted is transmitted, and the game state is grasped based on the game control command received by the effect control board 80. May be. If comprised in this way, it can implement | achieve easily and reliably that a game state is grasped | ascertained in common by the game control means side and the effect control means side. In this case, for example, as shown in FIG. 23, after step S66, the game control means sets the address of the command transmission table corresponding to the command specifying the game state to the pointer (step S68), and calls the command set process. (Step S69) may be performed. In the effect control board 80, for example, in the command analysis process, the gaming state flag may be set / reset so that the gaming state indicated by the received gaming state designation command is obtained. Note that the gaming state flag is a flag indicating whether or not the probability variation state is set, and is set when the probability variation state is reached, and is reset when the probability variation state ends. If comprised in this way, since the production | presentation control means can determine whether it is a probability change state by confirming the state of a game state flag, it is not necessary to provide the rotation speed counter for sub. In addition, the effect control board 80 is provided with a storage area for storing a game state command indicating whether or not the game is in the probability change state, and stored in the storage area every time a game state command indicating whether or not the game is in the probability change state is received. The game state command to be updated is updated, and it is determined whether or not the game state command received and stored last indicates the probability change state to determine whether or not it is the probability change state. May be.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the effect control means determines whether or not the state is in a certain change state according to the count value of the sub rotation counter (step S873). A flag that indicates whether or not the count value is 0 may be used, and it may be determined whether or not the state is the probability variation state according to the state of the flag.

  In the above-described embodiment, the special display mode of the start memory display area 18 disappears at the start of the change of the special symbol that causes the jackpot symbol to be stopped and displayed. Therefore, the player can easily predict that the jackpot symbol will be stopped and displayed when the special display mode disappears.

  Further, in the above embodiment, if there is a jackpot determination random value that matches the jackpot determination value during the pending storage, the other jackpots that have not yet been determined whether or not they match the jackpot determination value. Even if the determination random value exists in the pending storage, the determination process for determining whether or not it matches the jackpot determination value is terminated, so the control of the determination process can be simplified. In addition, it is possible to reduce the control burden of the determination process as to whether or not the jackpot determination random number stored in the stored storage matches the jackpot determination value.

  It should be noted that the determination process may be continued even when there is a jackpot determination random number value that matches the jackpot determination value during pending storage, and all the jackpot determination random number values may be determined. In this case, for example, the count value of the inspection number counter stored when the determination that there is a jackpot determination random number that matches the jackpot determination value for the first time during the hold storage is stored. It may be determined in step S212 whether or not is 2 or more.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the number of inspection counters indicates the order in which the variable display start condition relating to the jackpot determination random value that matches the jackpot determination value is satisfied among the pending variable displays. The number of executions is set to the same number as the number specified by the inspection number counter, and a predetermined notice effect over a plurality of variable displays is executed in each variable display for the number of executions. Therefore, the number of executions of the notice effect can be set to an appropriate number. In other words, it is possible to reliably avoid the occurrence of a big hit in the middle of the continuous notice effect, and to reliably generate a big hit in the variable display where the last notice effect by the continuous notice effect appears. .

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, during the execution period of the predetermined notice effect over a plurality of variable displays, execution of a determination process as to whether or not the jackpot determination random number stored in the reserved storage matches the jackpot determination value. Therefore, it is possible to simplify the process of determining whether or not to perform a predetermined notice effect over a plurality of variable displays, and avoid complicated control contents. Further, during the period of execution of the notice effect, it is possible to prevent the notice effect from being executed separately due to the decision to perform the notice effect, and to avoid the duplicate notice effect being executed. Can do.

  Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the determination process (step S207) for determining whether or not the jackpot determination random number stored in the pending storage matches the jackpot determination value is performed when the variable display start condition is satisfied. Since it is configured to be performed by a module common to the determination process (step S56) for determining the display result, the control program used in the gaming machine can be simplified, and the capacity of the control program is reduced. be able to.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the configuration is such that the hold display notice is also executed when it is determined that the continuous notice using the variable display device 9 is executed. It may be determined whether or not to hold the hold display notice regardless of the case.

  In the above embodiment, it is determined that the game control means will be executed in the future based on the stored contents of the hold memory when the variable display execution condition is satisfied (when the start winning is generated). It was decided whether or not to execute the continuous notice effect and the hold indication notice effect after confirming whether or not the variable display is a big hit, but now it is time to start the variable display Sometimes, it may be determined whether to execute the continuous notice effect and the hold display notice effect.

  Further, in each of the above embodiments, the effect of continuous notice by the variable display device 9 is performed by the character, but the notice effect may be of any form, for example, a slip effect (in a low-speed fluctuation state) Even if you make a notice effect by changing the variation mode of special symbols, such as an effect that fluctuates at a high speed for several symbols) or a return effect (an effect that changes in a reverse direction after passing the stop position of the symbol) Good. Moreover, you may make it perform a notice effect by changing a background. Further, the notice effect by the character and the notice effect by the other variable display device 9 may be executed together.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the maximum number of start winning prizes is four, but it may be three or less or five or more. Furthermore, the upper limit of the number of starting winning prizes may be changed by the establishment of a predetermined condition. Specifically, for example, the maximum number is 4 at normal time, but when a big hit occurs, it is conceivable to have a maximum of 15 until the big hit gaming state ends.

  In each of the above embodiments, the number of start memory display areas 18 and the maximum value of the start winning memory number coincide with each other, but the number of start memory display areas 18 is set to be larger than the maximum value of the start winning memory number. It is good also as a structure provided only with a small number. In this case, when there are start winning memory numbers equal to or greater than the number of start memory display areas 18, the pending display may be performed in all the start memory display areas. Specifically, when 10 start memory display areas 18 are provided and the maximum value of the start winning memory number is 50, if there are 10 or more suspensions, 10 start memory display areas 18 are displayed. Is displayed on hold.

  Note that the pachinko gaming machine 1 of each of the above embodiments has a predetermined game value given to the player when the special symbol stop symbol variably displayed on the variable display device 9 based on the start winning combination is a combination of the predetermined symbols. It is a first-class pachinko gaming machine that can be granted and is a card reader (CR: Card Reader) type first-class pachinko gaming machine that lends a ball with a prepaid card, but lends a ball with a prepaid card It is applicable not only to a CR-type pachinko machine but also to a pachinko machine that lends a ball with cash. Furthermore, when there is a winning in a predetermined area of the electric game that is released based on the start winning, a second type pachinko gaming machine that can give a predetermined game value to the player, or variably displayed based on the starting winning The present invention can be applied even to a third-class pachinko gaming machine in which a predetermined right is generated or continues when a winning is made for a predetermined electric combination that is released when the symbol stop symbol becomes a predetermined symbol combination.

  In each of the above embodiments, the “special game state” means a state advantageous to a player who is likely to make a big hit. Specifically, the “special game state” includes, for example, a probability variation state in which the probability that a special symbol is a big hit symbol is a high probability state, a short time state in which the number of fluctuations of a normal symbol per unit time is increased, a variable winning ball Open extension state in which the opening period and the number of opening times of the device 15 are increased (for example, when the probability variation state is reached, the probability variation state is reached, and after the probability variation state is finished, the open extension state is maintained until a special symbol variable display is executed a predetermined number of times. It is a high-probability state in which the probability of winning a big hit is increased. In the short-time state, since the number of opening of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is increased, the number of winnings per unit time is increased, and the variable display number of special symbols per unit time is increased. It can be said that has been raised. Similarly, in the open extended state, since the opening period and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 are increased, the number of winnings per unit time is increased, and the number of special symbols variable display times per unit time is increased. Therefore, it can be said that the probability of being a big hit is increased.

1 Pachinko machine 9 Variable display 18 Start memory display area 31 Main board 56 CPU
80 Production control board 101 Production control CPU

Claims (1)

A variable display means capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them, and after the predetermined variable display execution condition is satisfied, the variable display of the variable display is established based on the satisfaction of the variable display start condition. Start variable display of multiple types of identification information according to the order in which the execution conditions are satisfied, and control to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player when the display result of the variable display of the multiple types of identification information becomes the specific display result A gaming machine that can be used,
Display result predetermining means for determining whether or not the display result is the specific display result before the derivation display;
A specific gaming state in which the gaming state is controlled to the specific gaming state after the specific display result is displayed on the variable display device when the display result predetermining means determines that the display result is the specific display result. Control means;
After the execution condition is satisfied, a hold storage unit that stores the variable display execution in which the start condition is not yet satisfied up to a predetermined hold upper limit number;
Unlike a specific gaming state, when a special condition determined in advance is satisfied, until the variable information is displayed a predetermined number of times after the special condition is satisfied Special gaming state control means for controlling the gaming state to a special gaming state in which the display result of the variable display of identification information is likely to be the specific display result compared to when being controlled in the gaming state;
Determining means for determining whether or not the specific display result is derived and displayed by execution of variable display held and stored in the hold storage means;
A notice determining means for determining to execute a notice effect before the determined variable display is executed with a different probability depending on whether or not the specific display result is determined to be derived and displayed by the determining means. When,
An effect mode selection means for selecting an effect mode that is different in at least the special game state and the normal game state from a plurality of effect modes in which the effect modes of the notice effect are different from each other,
An effect mode corresponding to the effect mode selected by the effect mode selection means from among a plurality of effect aspects of the notice effect that is determined in advance when the notice determining means determines to execute the notice effect. A notice effect execution means for executing the notice effect according to
Execution of variable display of the identification information in the special gaming state before execution of variable display in which the specific display result is determined to be derived and displayed by the determination means when being controlled in the special gaming state A game machine comprising: a notice effect execution prohibiting means for prohibiting the start of execution of a new notice effect when it is determined that the number of times reaches the special number.

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