JP2009284957A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine can prevent impairment of a player's interest in the play caused by the reservation of a specific game state, and can reserve the play according to the player's intention. <P>SOLUTION: In the Pachinko game machine, whether prescribed operation is performed or not is determined when the game state is shifted to the specific game state advantageous to the player based on the establishment of a prescribed condition for shifting the game state. When it is determined that the prescribed operation was performed, the shift to the specific game state is reserved. In the Pachinko game machine, reservation of the shift to the specific game state is released when a prescribed condition for releasing the reservation is established, and the shift to the specific game state is permitted. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly, to a gaming machine that shifts to a specific gaming state that is advantageous to a player when a predetermined gaming transition condition is established.

  Conventionally, in a gaming machine, when a predetermined variable display start condition is satisfied, such as when a game ball has passed a start area provided in a game area in which the launched game ball can roll, the display area of the variable display device Variable display control means is provided for controlling the display of the identification information in a variable manner and for controlling the display of the identification information for which the variable display is performed. ), A game is made to shift to a jackpot gaming state (a specific gaming state, so-called “hit”) that is advantageous to the player.

In such a gaming machine, for example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, when a game ball is stopped during a big hit game state, a game process is temporarily stopped, and a big hit game state is disclosed. This is convenient because the game processing does not proceed during emergency use in the middle or when the dollar box is exchanged.
JP-A-9-173536

  However, in the gaming machine described above, even if it is not desired to interrupt the game process, the game process is interrupted each time the game ball is stopped when the game hits the big hit game state. For example, since it is desired to execute all the effects in the big hit gaming state, the actual game processing itself is interrupted even when the end of the round is delayed and the game ball is to be stopped. This is a game interruption different from the player's intention, and there is a risk that the interest in the game will be reduced. Also, in recent gaming machines, it is rare that emergency use occurs during the big hit gaming state from the execution time of the big hit gaming state, and the big hit gaming state is started for the necessity of exchange of dollar boxes. Can be recognized at the timing.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and can prevent a decrease in interest in a game due to interruption of a specific gaming state, and can interrupt a game according to the player's intention. An object is to provide a gaming machine that can be used.

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following gaming machines.

  The gaming machine according to claim 1, a game state transition control unit that performs control to shift to a specific game state advantageous to a player by establishment of a predetermined game transition condition, an operation unit that can be operated by the player, When transitioning to the specific gaming state by the gaming state transition control unit, an operation determination unit that determines whether or not a predetermined operation by the operation unit has been performed, and a predetermined operation performed by the operation determination unit If determined, a transition reservation control means for controlling the transition to the specific gaming state, and a reservation of the transition to the specific gaming state by the transition reservation control means when a predetermined reservation release condition is satisfied. And a reservation canceling means for permitting the transition to the specific gaming state.

  According to this gaming machine, when shifting to the specific gaming state, it is determined whether or not a predetermined operation by the operating means has been performed, and when it is determined that the predetermined operation has been performed, the specific gaming state is entered. The transition to the specific gaming state is canceled when a predetermined reservation cancellation condition is satisfied, and the transition is permitted. Therefore, the transition to the specific gaming state can be reserved in accordance with the player's operation, and the game process can be reserved before the start of the specific gaming state, so that the use can be completed in the meantime. It is possible to prevent a decrease in interest in the game due to the reservation, and it is possible to reserve the game according to the player's intention.

  The gaming machine according to claim 2 is in a transition reserve mode in which the transition to the specific gaming state is reserved when a predetermined operation is performed by the operation means in the gaming machine according to claim 1. A transition reservation mode storage means for storing the information, and the operation determination means has a function of determining whether or not the transition reservation mode is set when the game state transition control means shifts to the specific gaming state. It is characterized by that.

  According to this gaming machine, when a predetermined operation by the operating means is performed, it is stored that the transition reservation mode for retaining the transition to the specific gaming state is stored, and the transition is made when the transition to the specific gaming state is made. It is determined whether or not the reservation mode is set. Therefore, it can be set in advance by the player whether or not the transition to the specific gaming state is reserved, and the convenience can be improved. For example, even if it is necessary to make a decision before entering the specific gaming state, it is possible to set in advance a reservation for transition to the specific gaming state by the predetermined operation, and the specific gaming state while completing the usage. Even if the transition to is confirmed, since the transition is not performed without permission, the benefits of the specific gaming state are not missed (so-called “punk” or the like).

  According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent a decrease in interest in the game due to the reservation of the specific game state, and it is possible to reserve the game according to the player's intention.

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

  First, functions of the pachinko gaming machine according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 1, in a pachinko game, when a game ball that is launched in response to a user's operation becomes a start-up prize for performing variable display of a special symbol (for example, the probability of starting a prize-winning game) Is set to be about “5/100” to “6/100”), and with the start winning prize, a big hit random number for determining whether or not the big hit is made from the big hit counter regarding the big hit, the big hit In this case, a symbol random number for determining the type of the special symbol to be stopped and displayed is extracted. In this case, when it is normal time (for example, about “1/300”), it is a big hit with a lower probability than when it is probable (for example, about “1/50” to “1/100”). Determined.

  If it is determined that the game will be a big hit, it will be reached, but if it is determined that it will not be a big game, it will be determined whether or not it will be a reach (reach prize) (for example, about “ Reach with probability of 1/10 "to" 1/20 ").

  Further, when a start winning is made during the variable display operation, a big hit random number or the like is stored in the start storage area for the four reserved balls.

  Various commands indicating whether or not the above-mentioned big hit, the kind of special symbol to be stopped and displayed, whether or not to reach, etc. are output to the effect display means, and the variable display control means is variable in the display. Display.

  On the other hand, the effect display means selects variable display video and effect video based on the received various commands, reads effect data corresponding to the selection result, outputs a display video signal to the display, and generates a sound generator ( Audio signal is output to the speaker. As a result, various images are displayed on the display device, and various sounds are generated on the sound generator. Further, by outputting to the effect display means whether or not the big hit stored in the start storage area described above is lost, it is possible to recognize a win in the start storage area that has not yet been variably displayed, and based on that win Production may be performed.

  In the case of a big hit, the game ball payout control is performed with a higher probability than normal. When the big hit is over, there may be a short time state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game, or a probability variation state (probability variation state). In the short-time state, the start winning opening chucker opens and closes, making it easier to start a start than in the normal state, and in the probability changing state, the probability of a big hit in the big hit determination is higher than in the normal case. The time-short state is continued during variable display 50 to 100 times after the big hit, and the probability change state is continued until the next big hit.

  Further, the function of the pachinko gaming machine according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described more specifically with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 2, the pachinko game is a game in which a game ball is fired in response to a user's operation, and the game ball is controlled to be paid out by various winnings.

  The pachinko game includes a special symbol game using a special symbol and a normal symbol game using a normal symbol. When the special symbol game is a big hit or the normal symbol game is a big win, the possibility that the game ball will win is relatively increased, and the payout control of the game ball is easily performed.

  In addition, for various winnings, special symbol start winning, which is one condition for variable display of special symbols in a special symbol game, and normal symbol starting, which is one condition for variable display of normal symbols in a normal symbol game. Winning is also included.

  When there is a special symbol start winning, a random value is extracted from the jackpot determination counter and the symbol determination counter, and each random value is stored.

  On the other hand, when there is a normal symbol start winning, a random value is extracted from the counter for winning determination, and the random value is stored.

  In the special symbol game, first, it is determined whether a condition for starting variable display of the special symbol is satisfied. In this case, it is determined whether or not the random number value is stored by the special symbol start winning described above, and it is determined that the variable symbol display is started on the condition that the random value is stored.

  Then, the random number value extracted from the jackpot determination counter is referenced to determine whether or not to make a big hit. Next, the random number value extracted from the symbol determination counter and the above-described jackpot determination result are referred to, and the stop symbol determination for determining the special symbol to be stopped and displayed is performed.

  Next, a random number value is extracted from the variation pattern determination counter, and the random pattern value, the above-described jackpot determination result, and the above-described stop symbol are referred to, and the variation pattern determination that determines the variation pattern of the special symbol is performed. Done. Next, a random number value is extracted from the counter for determining the production pattern, and the random number value, the above-described jackpot determination result, the above-described stop symbol, and the above-described variation pattern are referred to, and the special symbol is variably displayed. The production pattern to be executed is determined accordingly.

  Then, as a result of the jackpot determination determined as described above, the special display to be stopped, the variation pattern of the special symbol, the effect pattern accompanying the special symbol is referred, and the variable display control for performing display control of the variable symbol special display, Production control for performing a predetermined production is executed.

  Then, when the variable display control and the effect display control are finished, it is determined whether or not a big hit is made. When it is judged that the big hit is made, the big hit game control for performing the big hit game is executed. In this big hit game control, the possibility of various winnings as described above increases. On the other hand, when it is determined that the big hit is not made, the big hit game control is not executed.

  Then, game state transition control for shifting the game state is performed. In this gaming state transition control, the gaming state is managed in a normal time different from the big hit gaming state. For example, in the big hit determination described above, the probability change state that the probability of being determined to be a big hit is increased, or in the variable display of a special symbol or a normal symbol, the variable display time is reduced, or the various game states May be moved to. Then, it is repeatedly determined whether or not to start the variable symbol variable display again.

  On the other hand, in the normal symbol game, first, it is determined whether a condition for starting the variable symbol variable display is satisfied. In this case, it is determined whether or not the random symbol value is stored by the above-described normal symbol start winning, and it is determined that variable symbol display is started on the condition that the random value is stored.

  The random value extracted from the winning determination counter is referenced to determine whether or not to win the game. Next, referring to the hit determination result described above, the variation pattern determination for determining the variation pattern of the normal symbol is performed.

  As a result of the hit determination determined as described above, the variation pattern of the normal symbol is referred to, and variable display control for performing display control for variable symbol normal display and effect control for performing a predetermined effect are executed.

  Then, when the variable display control and the effect display control are finished, it is determined whether or not the winning is achieved. When it is determined that the winning is achieved, the winning game control for performing the winning game is executed. In the winning game control, the possibility of various winnings as described above, in particular, the possibility of special symbol starting winnings in a special symbol game is increased. On the other hand, when it is determined that the winning is not made, the winning game control is not executed. Then, again, it is repeatedly determined whether or not to start variable display of normal symbols.

  In this way, in the pachinko game, in addition to various winnings of game balls that are launched in response to user operations, whether or not it will be a big hit in a special symbol game, whether the game state transitions, in a normal symbol game This is a game in which payout control of game balls is easily performed depending on whether or not

  In the present embodiment, the extraction of various random values uses a soft random number method that generates random values by executing a program. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, random numbers are updated at a predetermined cycle. A hard random number system that extracts a random number value from a counter (so-called ring counter) in the random number generator may be used. In this case, it is possible to prevent the same random number value from being extracted in the predetermined cycle by determining the initial value of the random value at a timing different from the predetermined cycle.

[Composition of gaming machine]
An overview of the gaming machine in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In the embodiment described below, a case where the present invention is applied to a first type pachinko gaming machine (also referred to as “digital pachi”) is shown as a preferred embodiment for a gaming machine according to the present invention.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 to 6, the pachinko gaming machine 10 fires a glass door 11, a wooden frame 12, a base door 13, a game board 14, a dish unit 21, a liquid crystal display device 32 for displaying an image, and a game ball. It includes a launching device 130, a board unit 400 including various control boards, a ball payout unit 500 for giving a game ball as a game value, and the like.

  The glass door 11 described above is pivotally attached to the base door 13 so as to be openable and closable. An opening 11a is formed at the center of the glass door 11, and a protective glass 19 having transparency is disposed in the opening 11a. Moreover, the base door 13 is pivotally attached to the front of the wooden frame 12 described above.

The dish unit 21 described above is disposed on the base door 13 so as to be positioned below the glass door 11. The dish unit 21 is provided with an upper dish 20 above and a lower dish 22 below. The upper plate 20 and the lower plate 22 are provided with payout outlets 20a and 22a for renting out game balls and paying out game balls (prize balls). If predetermined payout conditions are met, The ball is discharged, and in particular, the upper plate 20 stores a game ball for launching to a game area 15 described later.
The Rukoto.

  A big hit start hold button 90 is disposed above the dish unit 21. As will be described in detail later, the jackpot start hold button 90 is an example of an operation means that can be operated by the player, and the suspension (reservation) of the transition to the jackpot game state is switched according to the operation. In the present embodiment, such a big hit start hold button 90 corresponds to an example of an operation means that can be operated by the player.

  The launching device 130 described above is disposed on the base door 13 so as to be located on the side of the dish unit 21. The launching device 130 is provided with a launching handle 26 that can be operated by a player, and the pachinko game can be advanced by operating the launching handle 26 by the player. When the firing handle 26 is gripped by the player and is rotated in the clockwise direction, electric power is supplied to the firing motor (not shown) according to the rotational angle and stored in the upper plate 20. The played game balls are sequentially launched onto the game board 14.

  The game board 14 described above is disposed in front of the base door 13 so as to be located behind the protective glass 19. The game board 14 has a game area 15 on the front surface of which the launched game ball can roll. The game area 15 is an area surrounded by the guide rail 30 and the like, in which a game ball can roll. In this way, the game balls launched by the launching device 130 are guided by the guide rails 30 provided on the game board 14 and moved to the upper part of the game board 14, and thereafter, a plurality of game balls provided in the game area 15 are provided. It will fall down below the game board 14 while changing its traveling direction due to the collision with the obstacle nail.

  In the center of the front surface of the game board 14, a start port 44, a shutter 40, and the like are provided. On the condition that a game ball has entered the start port 44, variable display of special symbols will be executed. Further, as will be described in detail later, depending on the result of variable display of this special symbol, a big hit gaming state (so-called “big hit”) that is relatively advantageous to the player over the normal gaming state is obtained. When the big hit game state is reached, the shutter 40 is controlled to be in an open state, and the game ball may be easily received in the big prize opening 39.

  A display area of the liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind the game board 14 so as to be visible. Speakers 46L and 46R are disposed above the base door 13.

  A special symbol display device 33 is disposed at the center of the game board 14. The special symbol display device 33 performs variable display of special symbols in a special symbol game. The special symbol in the special symbol display device 33 is configured by a single symbol sequence, but is not limited thereto, and may be configured by, for example, a plurality of symbol sequences. This special symbol is a symbol made up of numbers and symbols.

  “Variable display” is a concept that can be displayed in a variable manner. For example, a “variable display” that is actually displayed in a variable state, a “stop display” that is displayed in a stopped state, etc. It is. In addition, “variable display” can be “derivation display” in which identification information is displayed as a result of a special symbol game. Further, the period from the start of the variable display to the derivation display is referred to as one variable display.

  Further, in the special symbol display device 33, the special symbol is derived and displayed, and the gaming state is changed to the big hit gaming state advantageous to the player based on the special display that is derived and displayed. Will be migrated. In addition, when the special symbol derived and displayed is in a non-specific display mode, it does not shift to the big hit gaming state.

  Also, based on the fact that the special symbol that has been derived and displayed has become a special display mode among the specific display modes, the gaming state is shifted to a big hit gaming state that is advantageous to the player, and the big hit gaming state ends. In such a case, the state will be shifted to the probability variation state.

  On the other hand, based on the fact that the special symbol derived and displayed has become a non-special display mode that is not a special display mode among the specific display modes, the gaming state is shifted to a jackpot gaming state that is advantageous to the player. When the big hit gaming state is finished, the game shifts to the non-probable change state (normal game state). In the probability change state as described above, the probability of shifting to the big hit gaming state is improved relative to the normal gaming state.

  Also, depending on the display mode or the like in which these special symbols are derived and displayed, there may be a transition to the short-time state after the end of the big hit gaming state. In this case, the short state is controlled so that the variable display time for the special symbol or the like is shorter than that in the normal gaming state and the time in which the blade member 48 is in the open state is longer. The possibility of shifting to the gaming state is improved.

  The liquid crystal display device 32 described above has a display area for displaying an image related to a game. The liquid crystal display device 32 is disposed behind (on the back side of) the opening formed in the game board 14. In the display area of the liquid crystal display device 32, images relating to various games such as decorative symbols, background images related to games, effect images, etc., which are variably displayed in accordance with the variable display of special symbols in a special symbol game, are provided in a predetermined manner. Will be displayed.

  Also, on the liquid crystal display device 32, the decorative symbols are variably displayed in accordance with the variable symbols special symbol display on the special symbol display device 33. When this decoration symbol derivation display is performed and the result of the variable symbol special display on the special symbol display device 33 is a specific display mode, the combination of the plurality of decoration symbols derived and displayed is a specific combination, The gaming state is shifted to a big hit gaming state advantageous to the player.

  In the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 32 composed of a liquid crystal display panel is used as a portion for displaying an image. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be used. For example, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) is used. It may be composed of a cathode ray tube, a dot LED (Light Emitting Diode), a segment LED, an EL (Electronic Luminescent), plasma, or the like.

  In the game area 15 of the game board 14 described above, various types of accessories are provided. An example of various types of accessory will be described below with reference to FIG. 5, but is not limited thereto.

  For example, a special symbol display device 33 is provided above the center in the game area 15 of the game board 14.

  In addition, a normal symbol display device 35 that performs variable display of normal symbols is provided on the right side of the special symbol display device 33. Also, above the game board 14, special symbol hold display devices 34a to 34d (indicated by reference numeral 34 in FIG. 7) for displaying the number of holds in the special symbol game, and the normal symbol hold for displaying the number of hold in the normal symbol game. A display device 37 is provided.

  In addition, ball passage detectors 54 a and 54 b are provided above the game area 15 of the game board 14. When it is detected that a game ball has passed in the vicinity of the ball passage detectors 54a and 54b, the normal symbol variation display on the normal symbol display device 35 is started, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the normal symbol variation display is performed. Is stopped.

  When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a predetermined symbol, the blade members 48 provided on both the left and right sides of a starting port 44 (to be described later) (so-called normal electric combination, hereinafter referred to as normal electric combination) Is changed from the closed state to the open state, so that the game ball can easily enter the start port 44. In addition, when a predetermined time has elapsed after the blade member 48 is opened, the blade member 48 is closed so that it is difficult for a game ball to enter the start port 44.

  Further, below the game area 15 of the game board 14, there are provided game ball general winning openings 56 a to 56 d.

  In addition, a shutter 40 that can be opened and closed with respect to the special prize opening 39 is provided below the game area 15 of the game board 14. As described above, when the game state is shifted to the big hit game state, the shutter 40 is driven so as to be in an open state (first state) in which a game ball can be easily received.

  Further, the shutter 40 is driven to the open state until a predetermined number of game balls pass through the special winning opening 39 or until a predetermined time elapses. In other words, in the open state, when a condition for winning a predetermined number of game balls in the grand prize opening 39 or elapse of a predetermined time is satisfied, the big prize opening 39 is in a closed state in which it is difficult to accept the game balls (second state). ). Subsequently, the shutter 40 that has been changed from the open state to the closed state is again driven to the open state on condition that the upper limit number of rounds has not been reached.

  A starting port 44 is provided above the shutter 40. When a game ball wins at the starting port 44, a special symbol game, which will be described later, is started, and the state shifts to a variable display state in which the special symbol is variably displayed. As the predetermined variable display start condition, in this embodiment, the main condition is that the game ball has won the start opening 44 (the game ball has passed through the start area). In other words, when a predetermined variable display start condition is satisfied (provided that the game ball has passed through the start area), the special symbol is variably displayed. In the embodiment, the predetermined variable display start condition is that a game ball has won the start opening 44, but the present invention is not limited to this, and another mode may be used.

  In addition, when a game ball is won at the start opening 44 during the variable display of the special symbol in the special symbol game, the game ball is won at the start opening 44 until the special symbol at the variable display is derived and displayed. Execution (start) of variable display of the special symbol based is suspended. That is, when the predetermined variable display execution condition is satisfied but the predetermined variable display start condition is not satisfied (when the predetermined variable display hold condition is satisfied), the predetermined variable display start condition is satisfied. The execution (start) of variable symbol special display is suspended. If the special symbol is derived and displayed in a state where the execution of the variable display of the special symbol is suspended, the execution of the variable display of the special symbol that is suspended is started.

  In addition, the special symbol variable display executed when the special symbol is derived and displayed is once. Further, an upper limit is set for the number of times the execution of the special symbol variable display is suspended. For example, the variable symbol variable display is suspended up to four times. Thus, when the variable display of the special symbol in the special symbol game is held, the special symbol hold display devices 34a to 34d display the number of the hold.

  Similarly, in the normal symbol game, the execution (start) of variable symbol display may be suspended, and when the variable symbol variable display is suspended, the regular symbol hold display device 37 The hold number is displayed.

  In the present embodiment, the variable symbol special display and the normal symbol variable display are held up to four times as an upper limit. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other modes may be used. The variable display of the special symbol may be suspended with the number of times or multiple times as the upper limit, and may be configured to be suspended without setting the upper limit. Of course, you may comprise so that the variable display of a special symbol may not be suspended.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 6, the ball passing detectors 54a and 54b, the general winning ports 56a to 56d, the large winning port 39, and the starting port 44 are respectively behind the passing ball sensors 114 and 115, and the general winning ports. The ball sensors 106, 108, 110, 112, the count sensor 104, and the starting winning ball sensor 116 are disposed, and each passing or entering ball is detected. Further, behind the blade member 48 and the shutter 40, an ordinary electric accessory solenoid 118 and a special prize opening solenoid 120 are disposed, respectively, and driven.

[Electric configuration of gaming machine]
A block diagram showing a control circuit of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in the present embodiment is shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the pachinko gaming machine 10 mainly includes a main control circuit 60 that controls a game and a sub-control circuit 200 that controls an effect according to the progress of the game.

  The main control circuit 60 includes a main CPU 66, a main ROM 68 (read only memory), and a main RAM 70 (read / write memory).

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

  The main ROM 68 stores a program for controlling the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10 by the main CPU 66, various tables, and the like.

  The main RAM 70 has a function of storing various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the main CPU 66. In the present embodiment, the main RAM 70 is used as a temporary storage area of the main CPU 66. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any readable / writable storage medium may be used.

  The main control circuit 60 also includes a reset clock pulse generation circuit 62 that generates a clock pulse every predetermined cycle (for example, 2 milliseconds) in order to execute a system timer interrupt process to be described later. An initial reset circuit 64 for generating a reset signal and a serial communication IC 72 for supplying a command to a sub-control circuit 200 described later are provided.

  Various devices are connected to the main control circuit 60.

  For example, various devices that respond to signals from the main control circuit 60 include a special symbol display device 33 that performs variable display of special symbols in a special symbol game, and a special symbol that displays the number of reserved special symbol displays in a special symbol game. Symbol hold display devices 34a to 34d, a normal symbol display device 35 that performs variable display of the normal symbol as identification information in the normal symbol game, and a normal symbol hold display device 37 that displays the number of hold of variable display of the normal symbol in the normal symbol game. The normal electric accessory solenoid 118 that opens the blade member 48 or the closed state, and the large winning opening solenoid 120 that drives the shutter 40 to open or close the large winning opening 39 are connected.

  Further, for example, when the game ball passes through the area of the big winning opening 39, the count sensor 104 that supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60, and when the game ball passes through each of the general winning openings 56a to 56d. When a game ball passes through the general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, 112 and the ball passage detectors 54a and 54b, which supply a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60, the predetermined detection signal is sent to the main control circuit 60. When the game ball wins the passing ball sensors 114 and 115 and the start opening 44 supplied to the game, the start winning ball sensor 116 that supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main control circuit 60, backup data at the time of power interruption, etc. A backup clear switch 124 that is cleared in accordance with the operation of the administrator is connected. A big hit start hold button 90 is connected to the main control circuit 60. The jackpot start hold button 90 supplies an operation signal to the main control circuit 60 when operated by the player.

  The main control circuit 60 is connected to a payout / launch control circuit 126. The payout / launch control circuit 126 is connected to a payout device 128 that pays out game balls, a launch device 130 that fires game balls, and a card unit 150. Further, a lending operation unit 82 is connected to the card unit 150, and an operation signal is supplied to the card unit 150 in accordance with the operation.

  The payout / firing control circuit 126 receives a prize ball control command supplied from the main control circuit 60 and a lending ball control signal supplied from the card unit 150, and transmits a predetermined signal to the payout device 128. Then, the payout device 128 pays out the game ball. The payout / firing control circuit 126 supplies power to the firing motor according to the turning angle when the launching handle 26 is gripped by the player and is turned clockwise. Control to fire the ball.

  Further, the sub-control circuit 200 is connected to the serial communication IC 72. The sub control circuit 200 performs display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, control related to sound generated from the speakers 46L and 46R, a decoration lamp (not shown), and the like according to various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60. Control of the lamp 132 including it is performed.

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

  The sub control circuit 200 includes a sub CPU 206, a program ROM 208, a work RAM 210, a display control circuit 250 for performing display control in the liquid crystal display device 32, a sound control circuit 230 for performing control related to sound generated from the speakers 46L and 46R, and a decorative lamp. The lamp control circuit 240 controls the lamp including the above. The sub-control circuit 200 executes an effect according to the progress of the game in accordance with a command from the main control circuit 60.

  The sub CPU 206 has a function of executing various processes according to the program stored in the program ROM 208. In particular, the sub CPU 206 controls the sub control circuit 200 in accordance with various commands supplied from the main control circuit 60.

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

  In the present embodiment, the main ROM 68 and the program ROM 208 are used as the storage means for storing programs, tables, etc., but the present invention is not limited to this, and a storage medium that can be read by a computer provided with control means. Any other form may be used, for example, it may be recorded on a storage medium such as a hard disk device, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, or a ROM cartridge. Further, these programs may not be recorded in advance, but may be downloaded after the power is turned on and recorded in the work RAM 210 or the like. Furthermore, each program may be recorded on a separate storage medium.

  The work RAM 210 stores various flags and variable values as a temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206. In the present embodiment, the work RAM 210 is used as a temporary storage area of the sub CPU 206, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and any readable / writable storage medium may be used.

  The display control circuit 250 is a circuit that performs display control of the liquid crystal display device 32, and includes an image data processor (hereinafter referred to as VDP), an image data ROM that stores data for generating various image data, A frame buffer for buffering image data, a D / A converter for converting image data as an image signal, and the like are included.

  The display control circuit 250 is a device that can perform various processes for displaying an image on the liquid crystal display device 32 in accordance with data supplied from the sub CPU 206. In response to an image display command supplied from the sub CPU 206, the display control circuit 250 displays various image data such as decorative design image data, background image data, and production image data indicating a decorative design on the liquid crystal display device 32. The image data to be stored is temporarily stored in the frame buffer.

  Then, the display control circuit 250 supplies the image data stored in the frame buffer to the D / A converter at a predetermined timing. The D / A converter converts image data as an image signal, and supplies the image signal to the liquid crystal display device 32 at a predetermined timing, whereby an image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32. That is, the display control circuit 250 performs control to display an image related to the game on the liquid crystal display device 32.

  The audio control circuit 230 includes a sound source IC that performs control related to audio, an audio data ROM that stores various audio data, an amplifier (hereinafter referred to as AMP) for amplifying audio signals, and the like.

  The sound source IC controls sound generated from the speakers 46L and 46R. The sound source IC selects one sound data from a plurality of sound data stored in the sound data ROM in accordance with a sound generation command supplied from the sub CPU 206. The sound source IC reads the selected sound data from the sound data ROM, converts the sound data into a predetermined sound signal, and supplies the sound signal to the AMP. The AMP amplifies the sound signal and generates sound from the speakers 46L and 46R.

  The lamp control circuit 240 includes a drive circuit for supplying a lamp control signal, a decoration data ROM storing a plurality of types of lamp decoration patterns, and the like.

[Description of display screen]
A display screen related to the special symbol game executed in the above-described configuration will be described with reference to FIG.

[Description of special symbol game]
In the special symbol display device 33, the special symbol is variably displayed as shown in FIG. Specifically, in the case where the special symbol is derived and displayed, when a predetermined variable display start condition is satisfied, the special symbol variable display is executed. Then, on the condition that the special symbol that has been stopped and displayed is in a non-specific display mode (for example, a mode that does not change from “0” to “9”, “−”), the big hit gaming state The game state transitions to the big hit game state on the condition that the current game state such as the normal game state is maintained and has become a specific display mode (for example, “0” to “9”, etc.). Will be.

  In addition, on the display area 32a in the liquid crystal display device 32, variable display of a plurality of rows of decorative symbols for decorating the special symbols in the special symbol display device 33 is performed. Specifically, when the special symbol is derived and displayed, the decorative symbol is also derived and displayed as shown in FIG. Then, when the predetermined variable display start condition described above is satisfied, as in the special symbol, the variable symbol variable display is also executed as shown in FIG. 8B. Then, before the special symbol is derived and displayed, the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed on the left column, and thereafter, the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed on the right column. Then, at the timing when the special symbol is derived and displayed, the middle row of decorative symbols is stopped and displayed, and the decorative symbols are derived and displayed.

  In addition, the decorative symbol that is derived and displayed has a relationship with the special symbol that is derived and displayed. Specifically, when the special symbol is “−”, the decorative symbol is in a non-specific display mode (for example, a mode in which three identical symbols are not arranged), and the special symbol is “0” to “9”. In this case, the decorative symbol is in a specific display mode (for example, a mode in which three identical symbols are arranged). That is, when all the columns are stopped and displayed, and the plurality of decorative symbols derived and displayed are in a non-specific display mode (for example, a mode in which three identical symbols are not arranged), the special symbol is derived as “-”. The current game state such as the normal game state is displayed and displayed. On the other hand, when the decorative symbols of a plurality of rows become reach as shown in FIG. 8 (C) and become a specific display mode (for example, a mode in which three identical symbols are arranged) as shown in FIG. 8 (D). The special symbol is derived and displayed from “0” to “9”, and the gaming state can be shifted to the big hit gaming state.

  In addition, if the big hit start hold button 90 is operated before shifting to the big hit gaming state, the big hit standby mode is set, and as shown in FIG. Will be displayed. In this case, when the big hit start hold button 90 is operated again, the big hit standby mode is canceled. Then, when the big hit waiting mode is entered and the big hit is made as shown in FIG. 8 (D), the transition to the big hit gaming state is suspended, and as shown in FIG. , "The big hit starts when the button is pressed" is displayed. When the big hit start hold button 90 is operated, as shown in FIG. 8 (F), the big hit game state is entered and the big hit game is started.

  Therefore, it is possible to reserve the transition to the big hit gaming state in accordance with the player's operation, and to reserve the game processing before the start of the big hit gaming state, so that the use can be completed during the big hit gaming state. It is possible to prevent a decrease in interest in the game due to the reservation, and it is possible to reserve the game according to the player's intention.

[Game machine operation]
The processes executed in the pachinko gaming machine 10 are shown in FIGS. 9 to 11 and FIGS. 13 to 18 below. Moreover, the state transition of the special symbol control process performed with the pachinko game machine 10 is demonstrated using FIG.

[Main processing]
First, as shown in FIG. 9, the main CPU 66 executes initial setting processing such as RAM access permission, backup restoration processing, and work area initialization (step S11). As will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 11, the main CPU 66 executes special symbol control processing relating to the progress of the special symbol game, the special symbols displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32 and the special symbol display device 33, and the decorative symbols. (Step S15).

  Then, the main CPU 66 executes normal symbol control processing relating to the progress of the normal symbol game and the normal symbols displayed on the normal symbol display device 35 (step S16). Then, the main CPU 66 executes a symbol display device control process for performing display control of variable display such as a special symbol and a normal symbol in accordance with the result of executing the special symbol control process and the normal symbol control process (step S19).

  As described above, in the main process, after the initial setting process is completed, the special symbol control process, the normal symbol control process, and the symbol display device control process are repeatedly executed.

[System timer interrupt processing]
Further, the main CPU 66 may interrupt the main process and execute the system timer interrupt process even when the main process is being executed. The following system timer interrupt process is executed in response to a clock pulse generated from the reset clock pulse generation circuit 62 every predetermined period (for example, 2 milliseconds). This system timer interrupt process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 10, the main CPU 66 executes a random number update process so as to increase the count values of the big hit determination random number counter, the big hit symbol determination random number counter, etc. by “1” (step S42). Then, as will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 15, the main CPU 66 executes an input detection process for detecting the winning or passing of the game ball to the start port 44 or the like (step S43). The main CPU 66 includes various timers such as a waiting time timer for synchronizing the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200, and a big winning opening opening time timer for measuring the opening time of the big winning opening 39. Update processing is executed (step S44). Then, an output process is executed in order to supply a signal for drive control based on various variables to a solenoid, a motor or the like (step S46).

  Then, the main CPU 66 executes a command output process for supplying various commands to the sub control circuit 200 (step S47). Then, the main CPU 66 executes a payout process such as transmitting a prize ball control command for causing the payout device 128 to perform a prize ball to the payout / firing control circuit 126 (step S49). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished, the address is returned to the address before the occurrence of the interrupt, and the main process is executed.

[Special symbol control processing]
The special symbol control process of FIG. 9 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 11, the numerical values drawn on the sides of the respective processes indicate the control state flags corresponding to the respective processes, and one step corresponding to the numerical value is executed according to the numerical value of the control state flag. The special symbol game will proceed.

  First, as shown in FIG. 11, the main CPU 66 executes a process of loading a control state flag (step S71).

  In each process described later, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to execute various processes in each step based on the value of the control state flag. This control state flag indicates the game state of the special symbol game, and allows any one of the processes to be executed. In addition, the main CPU 66 executes processing in each step at a predetermined timing determined according to a waiting time timer or the like set for each step.

  Before reaching the predetermined timing, the process ends without executing the process in each step, and another subroutine is executed. Of course, the system timer interrupt process is also executed at a predetermined cycle.

  Then, the main CPU 66 executes a special symbol memory check process (step S72). Although details will be described later with reference to FIG. 13, the main CPU 66 checks the number of holdings when the control state flag is a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check, and determines the big hit if there is a holding number. , Derived special symbol, variation pattern of special symbol, etc. are determined. Further, the main CPU 66 sets a value (01) indicating special symbol variation time management in the control state flag, and sets the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined in the current process in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the variation time corresponding to the variation pattern determined this time has elapsed, the special symbol variation time management process described later is set to be executed.

  On the other hand, when there is no reserved number, the main CPU 66 performs a demo display process for displaying a demo screen.

  Then, the main CPU 66 executes a special symbol variation time management process (step S73). In this process, the main CPU 66 sets the value (02) indicating the special symbol display time management to the control state flag when the control state flag is the value (01) indicating the special symbol variation time management. Set the waiting time after confirmation to the waiting time timer. In other words, after the waiting time after the determination, the special symbol display time management process described later is set to be executed.

  Then, the main CPU 66 executes a special symbol display time management process (step S74). In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not it is a big hit when the control state flag is a value (02) indicating special symbol display time management and the waiting time after determination has elapsed. In the case of a big hit, the main CPU 66 sets a value (03) indicating the big hit start interval management in the control state flag, and sets a time corresponding to the big hit start interval in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the big hit start interval has elapsed, the big hit start interval management process described later is set to be executed. That is, the main CPU 66 performs control to shift to the big hit gaming state (specific gaming state) advantageous for the player when a predetermined game transition condition is established. In the present embodiment, the main CPU 66 that executes such processing corresponds to an example of a gaming state transition control unit.

  On the other hand, the main CPU 66 sets a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game when it is not a big hit. That is, the special symbol game end process described later is set to be executed.

  If the main CPU 66 determines that it is a big hit, it executes a big hit start interval management process (step S75). As will be described later in detail with reference to FIG. 14, the main CPU 66 determines that the control status flag is a value (03) indicating the big hit start interval management, and when the time corresponding to the big hit start interval elapses, In order to release the variable, the variable positioned in the main RAM 70 is updated based on the data read from the main ROM 68. The main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the special winning opening is being opened to the control state flag, and sets an open upper limit time (for example, 30 seconds) to the special winning opening open timer. That is, it is set to execute a process for opening a special prize opening which will be described later.

  Then, the main CPU 66 executes a special winning opening opening process (step S76). In this process, when the control state flag is a value (04) indicating that the big prize opening is being opened, the main CPU 66 has passed the condition that the big prize opening prize counter is a predetermined number or more, and the opening upper limit time (large). It is determined whether or not any of the conditions that the winning opening opening time timer is “0” is satisfied (a predetermined closing condition is satisfied).

  The main CPU 66 updates a variable positioned in the main RAM 70 in order to close the special winning opening 39 when any of the conditions is satisfied. Then, the main CPU 66 sets a value (05) indicating monitoring of the winning ball remaining ball in the control state flag. The main CPU 66 sets the extra ball remaining ball monitoring time in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time for monitoring the remaining balls in the big prize opening has elapsed, it is set to execute the monitoring process for the residual balls in the big prize mouth described later.

  Then, the main CPU 66 executes a special winning opening residual ball monitoring process (step S77). In this process, the main CPU 66 indicates that the control state flag is a value (05) indicating monitoring of the winning ball remaining ball in the winning game mouth, and when the remaining winning ball monitoring time in the winning game mouth has elapsed, It is determined whether or not the condition that the number of times of release is equal to or greater than the maximum value (the final round) is satisfied.

  When this condition is satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (07) indicating the jackpot end interval in the control state flag, and sets a time corresponding to the jackpot end interval in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the jackpot end interval has elapsed, the jackpot end interval processing described later is set to be executed.

  On the other hand, when this condition is not satisfied, the main CPU 66 sets a value (06) indicating management of the special winning opening reopening waiting time in the control state flag. Further, the main CPU 66 sets a time corresponding to the interval between rounds in the waiting time timer. In other words, after the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed, the waiting time management process before reopening the big prize opening, which will be described later, is set to be executed.

  When the main CPU 66 determines that the special winning opening opening number counter is not equal to or greater than the maximum winning opening release number maximum value, the main CPU 66 executes waiting time management processing before the special winning opening reopening (step S78). In this process, the main CPU 66 sets the special prize opening number counter to “0” when the control state flag is a value (06) indicating the big prize opening reopening waiting time management and the time corresponding to the interval between rounds has elapsed. Update the memory so that it increases by 1 ″. The main CPU 66 sets a value (04) indicating that the special winning opening is open in the control state flag. The main CPU 66 sets an opening upper limit time (for example, 30 seconds) in the big prize opening time timer. That is, the above-described process for opening the special winning opening is set to be executed again.

  When the main CPU 66 determines that the big prize opening number counter is equal to or larger than the maximum value for the big opening number, the big hit end interval process is executed (step S79). In this processing, the main CPU 66 sets the value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game to the control state when the control state flag is a value (07) indicating the jackpot end interval and the time corresponding to the jackpot end interval has elapsed. Set to flag. That is, the special symbol game end process described later is set to be executed.

  The main CPU 66 performs control to shift to a probability variation state when the big hit symbol is a probability variation symbol, and performs control to shift to the normal gaming state when the big hit symbol is a non-probability variation symbol. Become.

  Then, the main CPU 66 executes a special symbol game ending process when the big hit gaming state is ended or is lost (step S80). In this process, when the control state flag is a value (08) indicating the end of the special symbol game, the main CPU 66 stores and updates the data indicating the number of holdings (starting storage information) to be decreased by “1”. Then, the main CPU 66 updates the special symbol storage area in order to perform the next fluctuation display. The main CPU 66 sets a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check. That is, the special symbol storage check process described above is set to be executed. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  As described above, the special symbol game is executed by setting the control state flag. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12, the main CPU 66 sets the control status flag to “00”, “01”, “02”, when the big hit determination result is lost in the big hit gaming state, as shown in FIG. By sequentially setting “08”, the special symbol memory check process, the special symbol change time management process, the special symbol display time management process, and the special symbol game end process shown in FIG. 11 are executed at a predetermined timing. Become.

  Further, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag in the order of “00”, “01”, “02”, “03” when the result of the big hit determination is a big hit when it is not the big hit gaming state, The special symbol memory check process, the special symbol variation time management process, the special symbol display time management process, and the jackpot start interval management process shown in FIG. 11 are executed at a predetermined timing, and control to the jackpot gaming state is executed. Become.

  Further, when the control to the big hit gaming state is executed, the main CPU 66 sets the control state flag in order of “04”, “05”, “06”, thereby releasing the big winning opening shown in FIG. The middle processing, the winning ball remaining ball monitoring process, and the waiting time management process before reopening the big winning opening are executed at a predetermined timing, and the big hit game is executed.

  When the big hit game is being executed and the end condition of the big hit game state is satisfied, “04”, “05”, “07”, and “08” are set in this order, so that FIG. The big winning opening opening process, the winning ball remaining ball monitoring process, the big hit end interval process, and the special symbol game end process are executed at predetermined timings, and the big hit gaming state is ended.

[Special symbol memory check processing]
The special symbol memory check process of FIG. 11 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 13, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the control state flag is a value (00) indicating a special symbol storage check (step S101). When the main CPU 66 determines that the control state flag is a value indicating a special symbol storage check, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the number of holds is “0” (step S102). On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 does not determine that the control state flag is a value indicating a special symbol storage check, the main CPU 66 ends the present subroutine.

  If the main CPU 66 determines that the data indicating the reserved number is “0”, the main CPU 66 executes a demo display process (step S103). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 does not determine that the data indicating the number of holds is “0”, the main CPU 66 executes a process of setting a value (01) indicating special symbol variation time management as the control state flag ( Step S104).

  Then, the main CPU 66 executes a big hit determination process (step S105). In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the high probability flag, and selects one jackpot determination table from a plurality of jackpot determination tables having different numbers of jackpot determination values (hit determination values) based on the read high probability flag. .

  As described above, when the high probability flag is a predetermined value, that is, when the gaming state is in a probable variation state, the probability of shifting to the big hit gaming state is improved as compared with the normal time. Then, the main CPU 66 refers to the jackpot determination random number value extracted at the time of starting winning and the selected jackpot determination table. That is, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not to enter a big hit gaming state advantageous to the player.

  Then, the main CPU 66 executes a special symbol determination process (step S107). In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the jackpot symbol random value extracted at the time of starting winning, determines the special symbol based on the jackpot symbol random value and the result of the jackpot determination described above, and determines the special symbol. Data indicating a symbol is stored in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. In addition, when the main CPU 66 determines the special symbol as a special display mode (a display mode in which the jackpot symbol becomes a probability variation symbol), the main CPU 66 performs control to shift to the probability variation state.

  The data indicating the special symbol stored in this way is supplied to the special symbol display device 33. As a result, the special symbol is derived and displayed on the special symbol display device 33. Further, the data indicating the special symbol stored in this way is supplied from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 as a derived symbol designation command. As a result, in the sub control circuit 200, the decorative symbol corresponding to the special symbol is derived and displayed on the liquid crystal display device 32.

  Then, the main CPU 66 executes a variation pattern determination process (step S109). In this process, the main CPU 66 extracts a rendering condition selection random value. The main CPU 66 selects a variation pattern distribution table for determining a variation pattern based on the special symbol determined as described above. The main CPU 66 determines a variation pattern based on the rendering condition selection random number extracted from the rendering condition selection random number counter and the selected variation pattern distribution table, and stores the variation pattern in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. The main CPU 66 determines the variation display mode (in particular, the variation display time) of the special symbol based on the data indicating such a variation pattern.

  The data indicating the variation pattern stored in this way is supplied to the special symbol display device 33. As a result, the special symbol display device 33 variably displays the variation pattern determined by the special symbol. Further, the data indicating the variation pattern stored in this way is supplied from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 as a variation pattern designation command. The sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 executes an effect display according to the received variation pattern designation command.

  Then, the main CPU 66 sets the variation time corresponding to the determined variation pattern in the waiting time timer (step S110), and executes processing for clearing the storage area used for the current variation display (step S111). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Big hit start interval management processing]
The subroutine executed in step S75 in FIG. 11 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 14, it is determined whether or not the control state flag is a value (03) indicating jackpot start interval management (step S141), and whether or not the waiting time timer is “0”. Is performed (step S142).

  In this process, when the main CPU 66 determines that the control state flag is a value indicating the big hit start interval management and the waiting time timer is “0”, the main CPU 66 shifts the process to step S143.

  On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 does not determine that the control state flag is a value indicating the big hit start interval management, or if it does not determine that the waiting time timer is “0”, the main CPU 66 ends this subroutine. To do.

  In step S143, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the big hit standby mode flag is on. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the jackpot standby mode flag positioned in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70, and determines whether or not the jackpot standby mode flag is on. This jackpot standby mode flag indicates whether or not the jackpot standby mode is to hold (hold) the transition to the jackpot gaming state, and will be described later in detail. Become. That is, when the main CPU 66 shifts to the big hit gaming state, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not a predetermined operation by the big hit start hold button 90 has been performed, and whether or not it is a transition reserved mode set in accordance with the operation. It will be. In the present embodiment, the main CPU 66 that executes such processing corresponds to an example of an operation determination unit.

  If the main CPU 66 determines that the big hit standby mode flag is on, it moves the process to step S148.

  On the other hand, when the main CPU 66 determines that the big hit standby mode flag is OFF, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S144.

  In step S144, the main CPU 66 sets display command data during the big prize opening opening. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores in the predetermined area of the main RAM 70 display command data during the opening of the special winning opening indicating that the special winning opening 39 is opened.

  The large winning opening opening display command data stored in this way is supplied from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 as a large winning opening opening display command. As a result, the sub-control circuit 200 displays on the liquid crystal display device 32 that the special winning opening 39 is being opened. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S145.

  In step S145, the main CPU 66 executes a process of setting a value (04) indicating that the special winning opening is open as a control state flag. Then, the main CPU 66 executes a process of setting the time indicating that the special winning opening is being opened to the special winning opening open timer (step S146). If this process ends, the process moves to a step S147.

  In step S147, the main CPU 66 sets the special winning opening open data. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores in the main RAM 70 data indicating that the special prize opening 39 is to be opened. Then, in the process of step S46 of FIG. 10, the main CPU 66 reads the data for opening the big prize opening stored in this way, and supplies a signal to the big prize opening solenoid 120 to open the special prize opening 39. . As described above, the main CPU 66 and the like perform opening / closing control of the special winning opening 39. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  On the other hand, in step S148, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the jackpot start pending command has been transmitted. In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the jackpot start pending command has been transmitted, depending on whether or not the jackpot start pending command has been transmitted in step S149 described later.

  When determining that the jackpot start pending command has been transmitted, the main CPU 66 ends this subroutine without executing step S149 described later.

  On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 determines that the jackpot start pending command has not been transmitted yet, it moves the process to step S149.

  In step S149, the main CPU 66 sets the jackpot start pending command data. In this process, the main CPU 66 stores, in this process, data indicating a jackpot start pending command for suspending the start of the jackpot gaming state in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70.

  The data indicating the big hit start pending command stored in this way is supplied from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 as a big hit start pending command. As a result, the sub-control circuit 200 can recognize that the start of the big hit gaming state is suspended. Further, when the big hit start pending command is set, the main CPU 66 stores the fact that it has been set, that is, that the big hit start pending command has been transmitted. This prevents duplicate transmission of the jackpot start pending command. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  Thus, when the big hit waiting mode flag is on, the transition to the big hit gaming state is put on hold (reserved) without going to step S144.

[Input detection processing]
The subroutine executed in step S43 in FIG. 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 15, the main CPU 66 executes prize ball related switch check processing (step S251). In this process, the main CPU 66 supplies predetermined detection signals from various sensors such as the count sensor 104, the general winning ball sensors 106, 108, 110, 112, and the starting winning ball sensor 116, which are switches related to the winning ball. Detect whether it has been. Then, the main CPU 66 that has performed the detection processing of these predetermined signals determines the number of prize balls according to the sensor that has supplied the signal, and stores it in the main RAM. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S252.

  In step S252, the main CPU 66 executes special symbol related switch input processing. In this process, the main CPU 66 detects whether a predetermined signal is supplied from the count sensor 104 and the start winning ball sensor 116 related to the identification information as a special symbol. The main CPU 66 that has performed the detection processing of these predetermined signals executes processing as described later. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S253.

  In step S253, the main CPU 66 executes normal symbol related switch input processing. In this process, the passing ball sensor 114 supplies a predetermined detection signal to the main CPU 66. The main CPU 66 having received these predetermined signals performs processing such as normal symbol start-up storage.

  In step S254, the main CPU 66 executes an operation button detection process. Although details will be described later with reference to FIG. 16, the main CPU 66 executes various processes according to the operation of the big hit start hold button 90. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

[Operation button detection processing]
The subroutine executed in step S254 in FIG. 15 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 16, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not there is an input of the big hit start hold button 90 (step S261). In this process, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not there is an input of the big hit start hold button 90 depending on whether or not there is an operation signal in response to the operation of the big hit start hold button 90. When the main CPU 66 determines that the jackpot start hold button 90 has been input, the main CPU 66 shifts the processing to step S262. On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 determines that the big hit start hold button 90 has not been input, the main CPU 66 ends the present subroutine.

  In step S262, the main CPU 66 determines whether or not the big hit standby flag is set. In this process, the main CPU 66 reads the big hit waiting flag positioned in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70 and determines whether or not the big hit waiting flag is set.

  In this process, if the main CPU 66 determines that the big hit waiting flag is set, it moves the process to step S263.

  On the other hand, if the main CPU 66 determines that the big hit waiting flag is not set, it moves the process to step S265.

  In step S263, the main CPU 66 clears the big hit standby mode flag positioned in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. As a result, the big hit waiting mode flag is turned off, and the suspension (reservation) of the transition to the big hit gaming state is released by the determination in step S143 described above. That is, the main CPU 66 stores that the transition mode has been entered in which the transition to the big hit gaming state is not reserved when a predetermined operation is performed by the big hit start hold button 90.

  As described above, when the big hit waiting mode flag is turned on, the main CPU 66 holds (holds) the transition to the big hit gaming state as described above. In other words, the main CPU 66 releases the reservation of the transition to the big hit gaming state and permits the transition to the big hit gaming state by establishing a predetermined reservation release condition whether or not the big hit start hold button 90 has been operated. It becomes. In the present embodiment, the main CPU 66 that executes such processing corresponds to an example of reservation cancellation means.

  Then, the main CPU 66 sets a jackpot standby mode cancel command (step S264). In this processing, the main CPU 66 stores data indicating a jackpot standby mode cancel command indicating that the jackpot standby mode is canceled in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70.

  The data indicating the big hit standby mode release command stored in this way is supplied from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 as a big hit standby mode release command. As a result, the sub control circuit 200 can recognize that the big hit standby mode has been canceled. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  In step S265, the main CPU 66 sets a big hit standby mode flag positioned in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70. As a result, the big hit waiting mode flag is turned on, and the shift to the big hit gaming state is suspended (reserved) by the determination in step S143 described above. That is, the main CPU 66 memorizes that the transition reservation mode is entered in which the transition to the big hit gaming state is reserved when a predetermined operation is performed by the big hit start hold button 90. In the present embodiment, the main CPU 66 that executes such processing corresponds to an example of a transition reservation mode storage unit.

  As described above, when the big hit waiting mode flag is turned off, the main CPU 66 shifts to the big hit gaming state, in other words, releases the suspension to the big hit gaming state. That is, when the main CPU 66 determines that a predetermined operation has been performed by the big hit start hold button 90, the main CPU 66 performs control to hold the transition to the big hit gaming state. In the present embodiment, the main CPU 66 that executes such processing corresponds to an example of a transfer reservation control unit.

  Then, the main CPU 66 sets a big hit standby mode execution command (step S266). In this process, the main CPU 66 stores, in a predetermined area of the main RAM 70, data indicating a big hit standby mode execution command indicating that the big hit standby mode is being executed.

  The data indicating the big hit standby mode execution command stored in this way is supplied from the main CPU 66 of the main control circuit 60 to the sub CPU 206 of the sub control circuit 200 as a big hit standby mode execution command. As a result, the sub-control circuit 200 can recognize that the big hit standby mode is being executed. When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  Therefore, the transition to the specific gaming state can be reserved in accordance with the player's operation, and the game process can be reserved before the start of the specific gaming state, so that the use can be completed in the meantime. It is possible to prevent a decrease in interest in the game due to the reservation, and it is possible to reserve the game according to the player's intention.

  In addition, whether or not to reserve the transition to the specific gaming state can be set in advance by the player, and convenience can be improved. For example, even if it is necessary to make a decision before entering the specific gaming state, it is possible to set in advance a reservation for transition to the specific gaming state by the predetermined operation, and the specific gaming state while completing the usage. Even if the transition to is confirmed, since the transition is not performed without permission, the benefits of the specific gaming state are not missed (so-called “punk” or the like).

[Sub control circuit main processing]
On the other hand, the sub-control circuit 200 executes the sub-control circuit main process. The sub control circuit main process will be described with reference to FIG. The sub-control circuit main process is a process that starts when the power is turned on.

  First, as shown in FIG. 17, the sub CPU 206 executes an initial setting process such as RAM access permission and work area initialization (step S301). Then, the sub CPU 206 executes random number update processing for updating random number values of various random number counters positioned in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210 (step S302).

  As will be described later in detail with reference to FIG. 18, the sub CPU 206 analyzes the received command and executes a command analysis process corresponding to the analyzed command (step S303). Then, the sub CPU 206 executes display control processing for performing image display control in the liquid crystal display device 32 (step S304). Then, the sub CPU 206 executes sound control processing for controlling sounds generated from the speakers 46L and 46R (step S305) and lamp control processing for controlling light emission of various lamps (step S306). When this process ends, the process is transferred again to the random number update process.

  Thus, in the sub control circuit main process, after the initial setting process is completed, the lamp control process is repeatedly executed from the random number update process.

[Command analysis processing]
The command analysis process of FIG. 17 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, as shown in FIG. 18, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not there is a received command depending on whether or not the command is stored in the command buffer (step S401). In this process, if the sub CPU 206 determines that there is a received command, the sub CPU 206 reads command data from a command buffer positioned in a predetermined area of the work RAM 210 (step S402). Subsequent processing will be described in detail below. On the other hand, when determining that there is no received command, the sub CPU 206 ends this subroutine.

  If it is determined that there is a reception command, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not a variation pattern designation command has been received based on the read command data (step S403). If the sub CPU 206 determines that the variation pattern designation command has been received, the sub CPU 206 executes an effect pattern determination process for determining various effect patterns, such as a decoration pattern variation pattern and an image effect pattern for displaying a background image (step). S404). When this process is finished, this subroutine is finished.

  On the other hand, when determining that the variation pattern designation command has not been received, the sub CPU 206 determines whether or not the derived symbol designation command has been received based on the read command data (step S406). If the sub CPU 206 determines that the derived symbol designation command has been received, the sub CPU 206 executes a derived ornament symbol determination process for determining a decorative symbol to be derived and displayed based on the derived symbol designation command (step S407). finish.

  On the other hand, when determining that the derived symbol designation command has not been received, the sub CPU 206 sets the effect control data corresponding to the received command (step S410), and ends this subroutine. Specifically, when the sub CPU 206 receives a jackpot start pending command, the sub CPU 206 displays an image indicating that the transition to the jackpot gaming state is pending. Further, the sub CPU 206 performs control to display an image indicating that the jackpot standby mode is being executed when a command for executing the jackpot standby mode is received. Do not display a certain image.

[Other Embodiments]
In the present embodiment, it is possible to memorize whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state when a predetermined operation by the big hit start hold button 90 is performed before the big hit. Not limited to this, for example, before the big hit symbol is derived and displayed, it is not possible to store whether or not the transition to the big hit gaming state is reserved, and the first round starts after being derived and displayed. It may be selected whether or not to hold when a predetermined operation by the big hit start hold button 90 is performed before being made.

  Further, for example, when a predetermined time has elapsed or when a special symbol is variably displayed a predetermined number of times, the memory of whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state may be deleted.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the jackpot standby mode is canceled in response to the operation of the jackpot start hold button 90, but this is not limiting. For example, after a predetermined period (for example, 10 minutes) has elapsed, The jackpot standby mode may be canceled.

  In the present embodiment, the control circuit is configured to include a plurality of control circuits of the main control circuit 60 and the sub control circuit 200. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The main control circuit 60 may be configured as one board.

  In the above-described embodiment, the first type pachinko gaming machine has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the second type pachinko gaming machine referred to as a wing mono, Hikoki mono, a first referred to as a right mono. It may be a three-type pachinko gaming machine or another mode.

  In the present embodiment, the present invention is applied to a pachinko gaming machine. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the present invention may be applied to various gaming machines such as a pachislot gaming machine and a game machine. Of course, the present invention may be applied to a game machine in which a bingo game or a lottery is executed instead of a game machine in which such a slot game is executed.

It is explanatory drawing which shows the main functions in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the pachinko game performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. 1 is an external view showing an overview of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the general view in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view which shows the game board in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a front view which shows the general view in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the main control circuit and sub control circuit which are comprised in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen displayed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state transition of the control process performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing performed in the pachinko game machine of one Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

10 Pachinko machine 32 Liquid crystal display 44 Start port 60 Main control circuit 66 Main CPU
90 Big hit start hold button 200 Sub control circuit 206 Sub CPU

Claims (2)

Game state transition control means for performing control to shift to a specific game state advantageous to the player by establishing a predetermined game transition condition;
Operation means that can be operated by the player;
Operation determining means for determining whether or not a predetermined operation by the operating means has been performed when the gaming state transition control means shifts to the specific gaming state;
A transition reservation control means for performing control to reserve a transition to the specific gaming state when it is determined by the operation determination means that a predetermined operation has been performed;
Reservation canceling means for canceling the reservation of the transition to the specific gaming state by the transition reservation control means and permitting the transition to the specific gaming state by establishment of a predetermined reservation canceling condition, To play. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
A transition reservation mode storage means for storing that a transition reservation mode for retaining a transition to the specific gaming state is made when a predetermined operation is performed by the operation means;
The operation determining means has a function of determining whether or not it is the transition reserved mode when the game state transition control means causes the transition to the specific gaming state.

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