JP2009285378A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine not generating disadvantage to a player even while intending to enhance game characteristics by arranging two start pockets in a game board. <P>SOLUTION: Special symbol pending-recording means 401, 402, when game balls enter the first start pocket 105 or the second start pocket 120 during fluctuational display of special symbols, record the game data obtained triggered by the ball enter as the first pending data or the second pending data. Game data determining means 303, 323 determines the presence or absence of the right obtaining for shifting to special game conditions based on the first pending data or the second pending data. In this case, the probability for the right obtaining are different in the first pending data and the second pending data. The pending digesting determining means 330, when both the first pending data and the second pending data are stored in the special symbol pending recording means 401, 402, determines which pending data is based on to start the fluctuational display of the special symbols, by lottery. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that performs a lottery drawing when a game ball enters a start opening.

Conventionally, as shown in Patent Document 1, a gaming machine in which two start ports (a first start port and a second start port) are provided in a game board is known for the purpose of improving game playability. In this gaming machine, when a game ball enters the start opening during the special symbol variation display, the right to display the special symbol variation (hereinafter referred to as “holding ball”) up to a predetermined number (four) per start opening. Is reserved.
In addition, a reserved ball obtained by entering a game ball at the second start port is designated as priority reserve, and a reserved ball obtained by entering a game ball at the first start port is designated as non-priority reserve. When the priority hold and the non-priority hold are reserved at the same time, the processing is performed from the priority hold first.

JP 2006-136544 A

  In the conventional gaming machine, the non-priority hold process is not started unless all the priority hold processes are completed. For this reason, if the game ball keeps entering the second starting port, the non-priority hold process is not easily started, and the non-priority hold tends to reach the upper limit reserved number. As described above, if the game balls are continuously fired in a state where the non-priority hold reaches the upper limit reserve number, there is a possibility that a disadvantage may be caused to the player. This is because this type of gaming machine aims to acquire a right to win a jackpot by putting a game ball into the starting opening, and in the state where the non-priority hold reaches the upper limit reserve number, This is because even if a game ball enters the starting port, the right to win a jackpot cannot be obtained by the ball. In other words, for the player, when the non-priority hold reaches the upper limit reserve number, the game is essentially the same as when the game is progressing with only one starting port.

  As described above, according to the above-described conventional gaming machine in which the non-priority hold easily reaches the upper limit reserve number, in order to prevent so-called wasteful hitting, it is easy to cause a situation in which the launch of the game ball must be stopped, and the game is interrupted. As a result, there is a problem that the gameability is lowered.

  It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine in which two start ports are provided in a gaming board without causing any disadvantage to the player and without lowering the gaming property.

  The first invention is a control means for controlling the progress of a game in a normal game state or a special game state to which a game value more advantageous than the normal game state is provided, and a special symbol is variably displayed and a predetermined time has elapsed. A special symbol variation display means for stopping the variation display; a first start port and a second start port for generating a right to start the variation display of the special symbol by the special symbol variation display means when a game ball enters The control means includes a game data lottery means for acquiring game data upon entry of a game ball into the start port and performing a right acquisition lottery for shifting to the special game state, and the game data Based on the game data acquired by the lottery means, game data determination means for determining whether or not the right to shift to the special game state has been acquired; Alternatively, when the player enters the second starting opening, the game data obtained with the entry as a trigger is stored as the first reserved data or the second reserved data, and the special symbol that reserves the right of variable display of the special symbol is reserved. The game data determination means includes a determination based on game data acquired when a game ball enters the first start opening, and a second start opening. The determination based on the game data acquired when the game ball is entered is made different in the acquisition probability of the right to shift to the special game state, and the control means includes the special symbol hold storage means When both the first hold data and the second hold data are stored, it is provided with a hold digest determining means for determining by drawing whether to start the special symbol variation display based on the hold data. You .

  In the second invention, the game state is any of a normal game state or a plurality of special game states to which a game value more advantageous than the normal game state is given and different game values are given. Control means for controlling the progress of the game, special symbol variation display means for variably displaying the special symbol and stopping the variation display after a predetermined time, and special symbol variation display means triggered by the entry of the game ball A first start port and a second start port for generating a right to start a symbol display, and the control means acquires game data triggered by a game ball entering the start port, Game data lottery means for performing the right acquisition lottery to shift to any of the special game states, and the right acquisition to shift to the special game state based on the game data acquired by the game data lottery means Game data determination means for determining presence / absence and which of the plurality of special game states is to be transferred to, and a game ball entering the first start port or the second start port during the special symbol variation display And a special symbol hold storage means for storing game data acquired at the time of the entry as first hold data or second hold data, and retaining the right to change the special symbol display. The game data determination means is triggered by the determination based on the game data acquired when the game ball enters the first start port and the game ball enters the second start port. The determination based on the acquired game data makes the transition probability to each special game state different, and the control means includes both the first reserved data and the second reserved data in the special symbol hold storage means. Remembered When in, characterized by comprising the hold digested determining means for determining the lottery to start the variable display of the special symbols based the on any pending data.

The first start port and the second start port are provided in the game board, and the game balls launched on the game board are configured to be able to enter or pass. The configuration of the two start ports is not particularly limited as long as it can detect that a game ball has entered or passed.
When a game ball enters or passes through the start opening, a random number is acquired by a random number generation means or the like. Then, the random number is checked against a predetermined table to determine whether or not it is a big hit (losing). The special symbol is a symbol for notifying the player of the lottery result, that is, whether it is a big win or a loss.

Fluctuation display means notifying the player of the lottery result of whether or not the big hit with a special symbol, until the special symbol is finally displayed to the player after starting the variation, It takes a certain amount of time. As for the special symbol, it is only necessary that the lottery result is finally notified to the player. Therefore, when the special symbol is displayed to the player after the change starts, that is, the display to the player during the change is not essential, and no indication is displayed to the player during the change. Is also included in the variable display referred to in the present invention.
The game data includes a random number value acquired by a random number generating means and a command based on the random value.

  The special symbol hold storage means stores the acquired game data when the game ball enters the starting port and reserves the right to display the special symbol in a variable manner. At this time, the game data may be stored in any manner as long as the acquired game data is stored in association with the start opening into which the game ball has entered. Therefore, the special symbol hold storage means has two storage areas of the first special symbol hold storage means and the second special symbol hold storage means, and the game data acquired by the game ball entering the first start opening May be stored in the first special symbol hold storage means, and the game data acquired by the game ball entering the second starting port may be stored in the second special symbol hold storage means.

  In the special symbol hold storage means, game data obtained by entering a game ball into the first start opening is stored as first hold data, and game balls are obtained by entering the second start opening. Game data is stored as second reserved data. And when both 1st reservation data and 2nd reservation data are memorize | stored in the special symbol reservation memory | storage means, a hold | maintenance digestion determination means starts the fluctuation | variation display of a special symbol based on any reservation data. To decide.

  The game data determination means is based on the determination based on the game data acquired when the game ball enters the first start opening, and the game data acquired based on the game ball entering the second start opening The acquisition probability of the right to shift to the special gaming state differs depending on the determination. That is, the probability of winning a jackpot when a game ball enters the first starting port (probability of shifting to a special gaming state) is higher than the probability of winning a jackpot when a game ball enters the second starting port. Or low.

  In addition, in the special game state where a game value advantageous to the normal game state is given, more prize balls than the normal game state are obtained when the game ball is easier to enter the starting port than the normal game state. There are a jackpot gaming state that can be acquired, a probability-changing gaming state that has a higher probability of shifting to the jackpot gaming state than the normal gaming state, and a state in which these gaming states are combined. In this way, if there are multiple special game states with different game values, the probability of transition to the special game state is set to be the same at both start ports, and the probability of transition to each game state. Only the change may be made. For example, the probability of acquiring the right to shift to the special gaming state is made equal when the game ball enters the first start port and when the game ball enters the second start port. When the right to shift to the special gaming state is acquired, it is further determined which special gaming state to shift to. At this time, when a game ball enters the first start port, the probability that the game ball enters the second start port may be higher than that when the game ball enters the second start port.

  According to the present invention, when the first hold data and the second hold data are stored, it is determined by lottery which one of the hold data starts to display the special symbol variation display. There is no such a case that only the right of the variable symbol display of the reserved data is reserved. Therefore, when an upper limit is set for each of the number of stored first hold data and the number of stored second hold data, the state in which only one of the hold data reaches the upper limit is reduced. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the player from being disadvantaged, and it is not necessary to stop the launch of the game ball in order to prevent the so-called wasteful hit, and it is possible to prevent the gameability from being lowered. That is, it is possible to ensure high gameability by providing two start ports.

  In the present invention, the winning probability of winning a jackpot and the probability of transition to each special gaming state differ depending on whether the game ball has entered the first start opening or the second start opening. Therefore, by determining by lottery whether the special symbol variation display is to be started based on which of the first retention data and the second retention data, the player has various expectations for each variation display. Can be given. In this way, since various expectations are given each time the change display is started, even if one of the holding data reaches the upper limit and the player stops firing the game ball, the player Less fatigue is felt.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of the gaming machine of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a partially enlarged view of the gaming machine. The gaming machine 1 includes a game board 101. At a lower position of the game board 101, an operation handle 113 including a launching unit (see reference numeral 292 in FIG. 3) is arranged. The game ball launched by driving the launching unit rises between the rails 102 a and 102 b and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then falls within the game area 103. The game area 103 is provided with a plurality of nails (not shown). The game ball is dropped in various directions, and a windmill or a ball that changes the fall direction of the game ball is placed in the middle of the fall. A mouth is provided.

  A symbol display unit 104 is arranged at the center of the game area 103 of the game board 101. For example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) is used as the symbol display unit 104. Below the symbol display unit 104, a first start port 105 capable of receiving a game ball driven toward the game area 103 is disposed. Below the first start port 105, a second start port 120 having a pair of movable pieces 120a is disposed. When the pair of movable pieces 120a are in the closed state, the second starter port 120 is unable or impossible to receive the game ball. When the pair of movable pieces 120a is in the open state, It becomes easier to accept a game ball than the one start port 105.

  The pair of movable pieces 120a are controlled to a first state in which a game ball is less likely to enter than the first start port 105 in the normal game state, and the first start in the special game state such as the probability change state or the short time state. It is controlled to the second state in which the game ball is easier to enter than the mouth 105. In this embodiment, the time-short state refers to a gaming state in which the second start port 120 is controlled to the second state, and the probability change state refers to the second start port 120 being controlled to the second state. In addition, it means a gaming state in which the probability of winning a jackpot is set higher than in the normal gaming state.

A winning gate 106 is arranged on the left side of the symbol display unit 104.
The winning gate 106 is provided to detect the passing of the game ball and to draw a normal symbol for opening the second start port 120 for a predetermined time. A normal winning opening 107 is disposed on the side of the symbol display unit 104 or below. When a game ball enters the normal winning opening 107, a predetermined number of winning balls (for example, 10) are paid out. At the bottom of the game area 103, a collection port 108 is provided for collecting game balls that have not entered any of the entrances.
In the lower right of the symbol display unit 104, a first special symbol display 84 for displaying a lottery result by a first special symbol lottery means 300 described later, and a second special for displaying a lottery result by a second special symbol lottery means 320. A symbol display 86 is provided. In both of these indicators 84 and 86, after the special symbol is variably displayed, the lottery result is finally displayed.

When a game ball enters the first start port 105 or the second start port 120 during the special symbol variation display, the right of the special symbol variation display obtained by the entry, the so-called reserved ball is reserved. . The number of reserved balls thus reserved is displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 88 and the second special symbol hold indicator 90. The first special symbol display 84 and the second special symbol display 86 constitute the special symbol fluctuation display means of the present invention.
Similarly to the above, when a game ball enters the winning gate 106, the normal symbol lottery means 360 performs a lottery, and a normal symbol display 82 for displaying the lottery result is provided. The normal symbol change display right obtained by the game ball entering the winning gate 106 during the normal symbol change display, that is, the number of the reserved balls is displayed on the normal symbol hold indicator 92.

Each of these indicators 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92 is composed of, for example, an LED, and the lottery result by the first special symbol lottery means 300, the second special symbol lottery means, depending on the lighting state of this LED. 320, lottery results by normal symbol lottery means 360, the number of reserved balls obtained by entering the first starting port 105, the number of reserved balls obtained by entering the second starting port 120, Also, the number of reserved balls obtained by entering the winning gate 106 is notified.
When the game ball enters the first starting port 105 or the second starting port 120, the symbol display unit 104 described above starts displaying a plurality of decorative symbols and stops the variation of the decorative symbols after a predetermined time. Let When a specific symbol (for example, “777”) is prepared at the time of the stop, a big hit state is obtained. In the big hit state, the operation of opening the large winning opening opening / closing door 109a in the large winning opening opening / closing device 109 located below for a certain period is repeated a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times), and the number of awards corresponding to the game balls entered. Pay out the ball.

  In addition, when the game ball enters the first starting port 105, the symbol display unit 104 displays the decorative symbol related to the ball entering the first starting port 105 in a variable manner, and the game ball is displayed at the second starting port 120. By entering the ball, the decorative symbol related to the ball entering the second start port 120 is variably displayed. In the present embodiment, when a game ball enters the first start port 105 or the second start port 120, the special symbol is variably displayed on the first special symbol display 84 or the second special symbol display 86. During the special symbol variation display, the symbol display unit 104 displays the decorative symbol variation.

  A frame member 110 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the game area 103 of the game board 101. The frame member 110 has a shape that surrounds the periphery of the game area 103 on the four sides of the game board 101 in the vertical and horizontal directions. Further, the frame member 110 has a shape protruding from the board surface of the game board 101 toward the player side.

  In the frame member 110, effect lights 111 (lamp units) are provided on the two sides on the upper side and the lower side of the game area 103. The effect lights 111 each include a plurality of lights 112. Each light 112 irradiates a player in front of the gaming machine, and the light irradiation direction can be changed in the vertical direction so that the irradiation position moves along the abdomen from the top of the player. Each light 112 is driven by a motor (not shown) provided in the effect light 111 so as to change the light irradiation direction in the vertical direction.

  In addition, each light 112 can irradiate the surroundings of the gaming machine, and the light irradiation direction can be rotated so that the irradiation position forms a circle with respect to the gaming machine. Each light 112 is driven by a motor provided in the effect light 111 so as to rotate the light irradiation direction. The motor that is driven to rotate the direction of light irradiation from each light 112 is a motor different from the motor that changes the direction of light irradiation from each light 112 in the vertical direction.

  The effect light 111 can change the irradiation direction of the light irradiated from the entire effect light 111 in three dimensions by rotating the irradiation direction of the light irradiated from each light 112 while changing the vertical direction.

  The light irradiation direction is changed when, for example, a big hit state is reached. Accordingly, the player and the surroundings of the gaming machine can be sequentially irradiated to inform the surroundings that the gaming machine is in the big hit state, and the attention of the player who has been in the big hit state can be increased. . Therefore, it is possible to give the player a sense of excitement due to attention, and to continuously or repeatedly use the gaming machine of the present embodiment, thereby improving the operating rate of the gaming machine.

  In the frame member 110, a tray unit 119 to which game balls are supplied is provided on the lower side of the game area 103. The tray unit 119 is supplied with game balls lent out from a rental ball device (not shown).

  An operation handle 113 is disposed at a lower position of the frame member 110. The operation handle 113 is operated by the player when the game ball is fired by driving the launching unit. Similar to the frame member 110 described above, the operation handle 113 has a shape protruding from the board surface of the game board 101 to the player side.

  The operation handle 113 includes a firing instruction member 114 that drives the above-described launching unit to launch a game ball. The firing instruction member 114 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the operation handle 113 so as to rotate clockwise as viewed from the player. The launcher causes the game ball to be launched when the firing instruction member 114 is directly operated by the player. Although not described because it is a known technique, the operation handle 113 is provided with a sensor that detects that the player directly operates the firing instruction member 114.

  On the upper side and the side of the symbol display unit 104 (on the right side in FIG. 1), there are provided effects (hereinafter referred to as “effects”) 115, 116. The directors 115 and 116 in the gaming machine of the present embodiment schematically represent a part of the Japanese sword (the vicinity of the samurai). The directors 115 and 116 are provided so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction of the directors 115 and 116 as if the blade is pulled out from the sheath and the pulled blade is returned to the sheath again.

  The director 110 is driven by a solenoid, and the director 116 is driven by a motor. By driving the similar directors 115 and 116 with different types of driving sources, it is possible to cause the directors 115 and 116 to perform their own movements, thereby increasing the stage effect.

In the frame member 110, a chance button 117 that accepts an operation by the player is provided on the lower side of the game area 103. The operation of the chance button 117 is effective while guidance for prompting the operation of the chance button 117 is displayed, for example, in a specific reach effect during the game.
In addition, the frame member 110 incorporates a speaker (see reference numeral 277 in FIG. 3) that outputs a production effect sound or a sound for informing fraud. This speaker 277 is of a type that can output high / mid / low sounds, and outputs high / mid / low sounds in a balanced manner during normal performance. Is controlled to output a high treble region high so that it can be heard well around.

(Internal structure of control means)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the control means of the gaming machine 1. The control means 200 is composed of a plurality of control boards. In the illustrated example, the main control board 201, the sub control board 202, the prize ball control board 203, and the lamp control board 206 are configured.

  The main control board 201 controls the basic operation related to the game of the gaming machine 1, and based on the program stored in the ROM 201b, the CPU 201a that executes the basic processing accompanying the progress of the game content, and the data work during the arithmetic processing of the CPU 201a A RAM 201c functioning as an area is provided.

  The main control board 201 performs a jackpot lottery relating to the game, and selects a command of effect recorded in the ROM 201b based on the lottery result. There are about 120 types of predetermination commands recorded in the ROM 201b, and the production time is determined for each reach predetermination command described in detail later.

  On the input side of the main control board 201, a first start port detection unit 221 that detects a game ball that has entered the first start port 105, and a second that detects a game ball that has entered the second start port 120. A start opening detection unit 225, a gate detection unit 222 that detects a game ball that has passed through the winning gate 106, a normal winning port detection unit 223 that detects a game ball that has entered the normal winning port 107, and a big winning port opening / closing device A special winning opening detection unit 224 that detects a game ball that has entered 109 is connected.

  In addition, a prize winning opening / closing unit 231 is connected to the output side of the main control board 201 to control the opening / closing of the prize winning opening / closing device 109. The special prize opening / closing unit 231 has a function of opening the special prize opening / closing device 109 for a certain period of time in a big hit, and is configured using a solenoid such as a special prize opening / closing solenoid 109b (not shown in detail). This jackpot is pre-programmed to occur with a predetermined probability based on the generated random number.

Connected to the input side of the sub-control board 202 is a chance button detection unit 220 that detects that the chance button 117 has been operated.
The sub-control board 202 mainly controls the effects during the game. Based on the prior determination command transmitted from the main control board 201, the CPU 202a that executes the effect lottery and effect processing, the program and the past A ROM 202b for storing the effect pattern, a RAM 202c functioning as a data work area at the time of arithmetic processing of the CPU 202a, and the like are provided.

The sub-control board 202 receives a pre-determining command that constitutes a part of the game effect transmitted from the main control board 201, and performs lottery in the CPU 202a based on the pre-determining command, thereby producing an effect background pattern and a reach effect pattern. Then, the effect of the appearance character or the like is confirmed, and this effect confirmation command is transmitted to perform sub-control in the game.
The CPU 202a has a function of controlling so that the same effect pattern is not continuously generated in the range of the pre-determination command transmitted from the main control board 201 as compared with the past effect pattern having a predetermined number of fluctuations. It may be provided.

  The symbol display unit 104 is connected to the output side of the sub-control board 202, and the sub-control board 202 also has a function of executing effect processing based on the above-described effect determination command. That is, the CPU 202a in the sub-control board 202 executes an effect process based on the effect confirmation command, the ROM 202b stores various image data such as a background image, a pattern image, and a character image, and the RAM 202c performs data work during the calculation process of the CPU 202a. Functions as an area. The sub-control board 202 is further provided with a VRAM 202d for writing image data to be displayed on the symbol display unit 104.

  Normally, the CPU 202a reads a program stored in the ROM 202b, executes various image processing such as background image display processing, symbol image display and variation processing, and character image display processing, reads necessary image data from the ROM 202b, and stores it in the VRAM 202d. Write. The background image, the design image, and the character image are superimposed and displayed on the design display unit 104 on the display screen. That is, the design image and the character image are displayed so as to be seen in front of the background image. At this time, if the background image and the design image overlap at the same position, the design image is preferentially stored in the VRAM 202d by referring to the Z value of the Z buffer of each image data by a known hidden surface removal method such as the Z buffer method. .

  A speaker 277 is connected to the output side of the sub-control board 202, and the sub-control board 202 also has a function of controlling output of sound as an effect process based on the effect determination command described above. That is, in the sub control board 202, the CPU 202a executes audio processing based on the effect confirmation command, the ROM 202b stores various audio data, and the RAM 202c functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the CPU 202a. When various effects are executed, based on the effect confirmation command, the CPU 202a reads a program stored in the ROM 202b, executes various sound output processes such as effect sound effect processing, and outputs sound from the speaker 277.

On the output side of the sub-control board 202, a lamp control board 206 for controlling the lamp 262, the effect light 111, and the accessory part 254 is provided.
The lamp control board 206 functions as a CPU 206a that executes an effect process based on the effect confirmation command transmitted from the sub-control board 202, a ROM 206b that stores various effect pattern data, and a work area for data during the calculation process of the CPU 206a. A RAM 206c and the like are provided.

  The lamp control board 206 performs lighting control for various lamps 262 provided on the game board 101, the base frame, and the like based on the effect confirmation command transmitted from the sub-control board 202. The lighting control for the lights 112 is performed, and the drive control for the motors is performed to change the irradiation direction of the light from each light 112.

  In addition, the lamp control board 206 performs drive control for the solenoid that operates the effect accessory 115 on the accessory part 254 based on the effect confirmation command transmitted from the sub control board 202, and the effect accessory 116. The drive control for the motor that operates is performed.

  In addition, a prize ball control board 203 is connected to the main control board 201 so as to be able to transmit in both directions. The prize ball control board 203 performs prize ball control based on a program stored in the ROM 203a. The prize ball control board 203 includes a CPU 203a that executes prize ball control processing, a RAM 203c that functions as a data work area when the CPU 203a performs arithmetic processing, and the like.

  The prize ball control board 203 performs control for paying out the number of prize balls at the time of entering the ball to the connected payout unit 291. In addition, an operation of launching a game ball with respect to the launch unit 292 is detected, and the launch of the game ball is controlled. The payout unit 291 includes a motor for paying out a predetermined number from the game ball storage unit.

  The prize ball control board 203 is a game ball that has entered the respective entrances (the first start opening 105, the second start opening 120, the normal winning opening 107, and the big winning opening opening / closing device 109) with respect to the payout unit 291. Control to pay out the number of prize balls corresponding to. The launching unit 292 launches a game ball for gaming, and includes a sensor (not shown) that detects a game operation by the player, a solenoid that launches the game ball, and the like (not shown). When the game operation is detected by the sensor of the launching unit 292, the prize ball control board 203 drives a solenoid or the like in response to the detected game operation to intermittently fire the game ball, thereby playing the game area 103 of the game board 101. A game ball is sent out.

(Functional configuration of main control board and sub control board)
FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram schematically showing a functional configuration of the control means 200 for controlling the progress of the game.

As shown in FIG. 4, the ROM 201b of the main control board 201 mainly includes a first special symbol lottery means 300 and a first special symbol display as means for functioning when a game ball enters the first starting port 105. A control unit 301, a first special symbol variation control unit 302, and a first random number determination unit 303 are provided.
The ROM 201b mainly functions as a trigger when a game ball enters the second starting port 120. The second special symbol lottery means 320, the second special symbol display control means 321, the second special symbol variation control, and the like. Means 322 and second random number judgment means 323 are provided.
Further, the ROM 201b includes a jackpot game control means 340, a probability change game control means 341, a time-short game control means 342, a normal game control means 343, an on-hold digest determination means 330, and an effect execution command transmission means 333 as means for controlling the progress of the game. I have.
Further, the ROM 201b functions as an opportunity to enter a game ball into the winning gate 106 as a normal symbol lottery means 360, a normal symbol display control means 361, a normal symbol variation control means 362, a normal symbol lottery result determination means 363. It has.

The RAM 201c of the main control board 201 includes a first special symbol hold storage unit 401, a second special symbol hold storage unit 402, a normal symbol hold storage unit 403, and a game state storage unit 404.
On the other hand, the ROM 202b of the sub-control board 202 includes effect lottery means 501 and effect control means 502.
The first special symbol lottery means 300 and the second special symbol lottery means 320 constitute the game data lottery means of the present invention.
The first random number determination means 303 and the second random number determination means 323 constitute a game data determination means of the present invention. The configuration and function of each means will be described below.

  The jackpot game control means 340, probability change game control means 341, time-short game control means 342, and normal game control means 343 are all programs that control the progress of the game in each game state.

  The jackpot game control means 340 proceeds with the jackpot game when a transition from the normal game state to the jackpot game state is made as a result of the jackpot lottery by the first special symbol lottery means 300 or the second special symbol lottery means 320 described later. Control. Specifically, the jackpot game control means 340 includes a long hit game in which the opening / closing operation of the big prize opening / closing device 109 is performed for a total of 15 rounds, and a short hit game in which the opening / closing operation of the big prize opening / closing device 109 is performed for two rounds. To control. In the present embodiment, “long win and short win” are collectively referred to as “big hit”, and “long win game and short win game” are collectively referred to as “big hit game”.

  As described above, when a long winning game is executed, the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening / closing device 109 is executed more than the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening / closing device 109 during the short winning game. Yes. The opening / closing operation of the special prize opening / closing device 109 is performed by operating the special prize opening / closing solenoid 109b by the special prize opening / closing part 231. Specifically, the jackpot game control means 340 operates the jackpot opening / closing solenoid 109b from the first round to the 15th round in the long hit gaming state and only two rounds in the short hit gaming state to thereby win the big prize opening / closing door 109a. Open and close. Then, when a game ball enters the big winning opening / closing device 109, the big winning opening detection unit 224 counts the number of balls entered. Further, when the game winning ball detecting unit 224 detects that the game ball has entered the game winning opening / closing device 109, the game ball is paid out by the payout unit 291.

  Here, “round” means that a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses and a predetermined number (for example, 9 balls) of game balls enter when a long game and a short game are being executed. This means a unit for opening / closing the special prize opening opening / closing device 109 by satisfying any of the following conditions. In the present embodiment, the opening time of the big prize opening / closing device 109 per round in the short win game is set to be extremely shorter than the opening time of the big winning opening / closing device 109 per round in the long hit game. ing.

  The probability variation game control means 341 determines the probability of winning a big hit when the first special symbol lottery means 300 and the second special symbol lottery means 320 perform a lottery in a game after a long win game or a short win game is executed. Control the probability change game that increases. As will be described in detail later, whether or not the first special symbol lottery means 300 determines whether or not it is successful is determined based on the first special symbol probability change time determination table, and whether or not the second special symbol lottery means 320 determines whether or not the second special symbol is probable. This is performed based on the determination table.

  In the present embodiment, “probability change game” means that the first special symbol lottery means 300 and the second special symbol lottery means 320 determine whether or not the first special symbol probability change per-time determination table and second special symbol probability change, respectively. It means a game played based on the hourly determination table. A gaming state in which a probability variation game is being performed is referred to as a “probability variation gaming state”. Here, the special symbol probability variation time determination table (the first special symbol probability variation time determination table and the second special symbol probability variation time determination table) is longer and shorter than the special symbol normal variation time determination table. The winning probability for winning is set to be high (for example, the winning probability is set to be about 10 times higher than normal. Details will be described later).

  In the present embodiment, if the random number acquired by the first special symbol lottery means 300 is determined to be a long hit, the probability variation gaming state with a probability of, for example, 1/2 after the long hit game is executed. When it is determined that the short win is achieved, after the short win game is executed, for example, the probability change gaming state is set with a probability of 1/2. If the second special symbol lottery means 320 determines that the game is a long win, after the long game has been executed, the probability change gaming state has a probability of one-half, and if it is determined that the game is a short win. After the short hit game is executed, the game state is changed with a probability of 100%. On the other hand, when the random number drawn by the second special symbol lottery means 320 is determined to be a long hit, after the long hit game is executed, the probability change gaming state is set with a probability of 60%, for example. However, if it is determined that a short win is made, a short win game is executed, and then a probable game state is entered with a probability of almost 100%.

  In addition, although it is substantially the same mode as the above short win, any one of the normal short win, the probability changing game state, and the short time gaming state in which the short hit game state is not entered after the big hit game is executed, Needless to say, a small hit or the like in a normal gaming state may be combined as appropriate.

  The short time game control means 342 controls the short time game in which the normal symbol fluctuation control means 362 shortens the fluctuation time of the normal symbol. In the probability variation game state, the time-short game is performed by the time-short game control unit 341 together with the probability variation game by the probability variation game control unit 341.

  In the present embodiment, the “short-time gaming state” means a gaming state in which a random value acquired by a normal symbol lottery means 360 described later is determined based on a normal symbol time-short time determination table. In other words, the normal symbol lottery result determination means 363 makes a winning determination based on the normal symbol normal hour hit determination table in the normal gaming state, but in the normal symbol hour / short hour determination table in the short time gaming state. Based on this, a win determination is made.

  As a result of the determination by the normal symbol lottery result determination means 363, if the winning is won, the pair of movable pieces 120a are opened for a certain time to be in an open state, so that the game ball can easily enter the second start port 120. In the normal symbol time / short time determination table, the winning probability is set as high as 90%, for example. Therefore, in the short-time gaming state, it is possible to acquire a lot of winning balls by entering the second starting port 120, and the game can proceed without reducing the gaming balls as much as possible.

  Then, the normal game control means 343 controls the progress of a game that does not fall into either the jackpot game or the special game, that is, a normal game. As described above, one of the jackpot game control means 340, the probability variation game control means 341, the short-time game control means 342, and the normal game control means 343 controls the progress of the game depending on the game state. The gaming state in which the control units 340 to 343 are in progress is written in the gaming state storage unit 404 of the RAM 201c.

  Next, the normal symbol lottery means 360, the normal symbol display control means 361, the normal symbol fluctuation control means 362, the normal symbol lottery result determination means 363, and the normal symbol hold, which start control when the game ball passes the winning gate 106. The storage unit 403 will be described.

  When the game ball passes through the winning gate 106 and is detected by the gate detection unit 222, the normal symbol lottery means 360 acquires a random number value of 1 from a random number value (for example, 0 to 250) prepared in advance. When the random value is acquired by the normal symbol lottery means 360, the normal symbol lottery result determination means 363 determines whether or not it is a hit based on the table stored in the ROM 201b. At this time, if the game is in the normal game state, the winning is determined based on the normal symbol normal time per hour determination table, and if it is in the time-short game state (including the probability variation game state), it is based on the normal symbol time per hour determination table. Winning is determined.

  If the result of the determination by the normal symbol lottery result determination means 363 is a win, the second start port opening / closing solenoid 120b is operated to open the movable piece 120a and maintain the open state. The control is terminated while the second start port opening / closing solenoid 120b is maintained in the closed state without being operated. The result of determination by the normal symbol lottery result determination means 363 is displayed on the normal symbol display 82 by the normal symbol display control means 361.

It should be noted that a predetermined time is required until the determination result is displayed on the normal symbol display 82 after the game ball passes through the winning gate 106.
In other words, when the game ball passes through the winning gate 106, the normal symbol display 82 is displayed with a lamp lit or blinking as if the lottery is currently being performed, and such lighting or blinking is predetermined. After the time is over, the lottery result is finally displayed. This is a normal symbol variation display, and the variation display time is preset for each gaming state as described above.

  Specifically, in the short-time gaming state, the variation time of the normal symbol is set as short as, for example, 1.5 seconds, and the probability of winning the winning is also set as high as 90%. Therefore, in the short-time gaming state, as long as the game ball passes through the winning gate 106, the normal symbol lottery and variation display are performed one after another, and the time for the second start port 120 to be kept open becomes longer. .

On the other hand, in game states other than the short-time game state (normal game state, probability variation game state, jackpot game), the variation time of the normal symbol is set as long as, for example, 10 seconds, and the probability of winning in the win A low probability of 10% is set.
In addition, when the normal symbol is won in the short game state, the second starting port 120 is opened four times for 1.2 seconds, whereas the normal symbol is not displayed in the game state other than the short game state. Even if it wins, the opening operation of 0.2 seconds is performed only once.

  As is clear from this, in the short-time gaming state, the time for which the second starting port 120 is in the open state is long, and in other gaming states, the time for which the second starting port 120 is in the closed state is long.

  If the game ball further passes through the winning gate 106 during the normal symbol fluctuation display, the normal symbol lottery means 360 has the right to draw, that is, the normal symbol fluctuation display right, in the normal symbol hold storage means 403. Reserved. The maximum number of reserved rights for the lottery is four, and is displayed on the normal symbol hold display 92 by the normal symbol display control means 361.

  The normal symbol variation start processing will be described below with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

(Step S101)
As shown in FIG. 5, when a game ball passes through the winning gate 106, the winning gate detection unit 222 detects the passage of the game ball.
When the winning gate detection unit 222 detects a signal, the detection signal is transmitted to the main control board 201, and the normal symbol lottery means 360 acquires a random value (for example, 0 to 250).

(Step S102)
When the random number value is acquired, the normal symbol fluctuation control means 362 determines whether or not the normal symbol is currently fluctuating. When it is determined that the normal symbol is not fluctuating, the fluctuation start process of FIG. 6 described later is immediately performed based on the passage of the game ball.

(Step S103)
On the other hand, if the normal symbol is changing when the random number value is acquired, it is determined in step S103 whether or not the normal symbol hold is less than 4 which is the upper limit reserved number, that is, the normal symbol change display. It is determined whether or not the right can be reserved.

(Step S104)
If it is determined in step S103 that the right to display the variation of the normal symbol can be reserved, the random number value acquired in step S101 is stored in the normal symbol hold storage unit 403. Further, in the above-described step S103, when the hold is the upper limit reserved number 4, the right to change the display of the normal symbol is not reserved, so the control based on the passing of the game ball to the winning gate 106 ends. .

  Next, in the state where there is no hold in the normal symbol hold storage unit 403, the right to display the variable of the normal symbol acquired by the game ball passing through the winning gate 106, and the normal symbol reserved in the normal symbol hold storage unit 403 The processing procedure of the right of variable display will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S201)
When performing the variation start process, first, the normal symbol variation control unit 362 determines whether the gaming state stored in the gaming state storage unit 404 is a short-time gaming state or another gaming state.

(Step S202) (Step S203)
When it is determined in step S201 that the game state is other than the short-time game state (normal game state, probability variation game state), the normal symbol normal time determination table is selected. Then, based on the normal symbol normal time determination table, the normal symbol lottery result determination unit 363 determines whether or not the acquired random number value is successful. Note that, according to the normal symbol normal time determination table, among random numbers from 0 to 250, for example, random numbers from 0 to 24 are determined to be winning, and other random values are determined to be lost. That is, according to the normal symbol normal hour determination table, the random number value is determined to be a hit with a probability of about 10%.

  In addition, when digesting the hold reserved in the normal symbol hold storage unit 403, the random number value stored in the normal symbol hold storage unit 403 is read into a predetermined processing area, and the above determination process is performed. On the other hand, when the game ball passes through the winning gate 106 in a state where there is no hold, the acquired random number value is directly written in the predetermined processing area.

(Step S204)
If the result of the hit determination in step S203 is a loss, the change process is terminated and the change process is performed based on the standby state or the next hold.
On the other hand, if it is determined to be a win in step S203, a normal variation process is performed in step S204. The normal variation processing here is processing in which normal symbol variation display is performed for a preset time (10 seconds).

  The normal symbol variation display is performed by the normal symbol display control means 361. That is, the normal symbol display control means 361 causes the normal symbol display 82 to turn on or blink an LED or the like for 10 seconds, and then stop and display a predetermined winning symbol.

(Step S205)
As described above, the CPU 201a transmits a signal for controlling the second start port opening / closing solenoid 120b at the timing when the normal symbol starts to change and stops after a predetermined time has elapsed, and based on the signal, the second start port 120 is opened. At this time, the second starting port 120 is controlled to be closed again after being opened for 0.2 seconds.

(Step S206) (Step S207)
In step S201, if it is determined that the time-short gaming state, the normal symbol time-short time determination table is selected. The normal symbol lottery result determination unit 363 determines whether or not the acquired random number value is hit based on the normal symbol time / short time determination table.

(Step S208)
If the result of the hit determination in step S207 is a loss, the change process is terminated, and the change process is performed based on the standby state or the next hold.
On the other hand, if it is determined to be a win in step S208, a time variation process is performed in step S208. The short-time variation processing here is processing in which normal symbol variation display is performed for a preset time (1.5 seconds).

  The normal symbol variation display is also performed by the normal symbol display control means 361. That is, the normal symbol display control means 361 causes the normal symbol display 82 to turn on or blink the LED or the like for 1.5 seconds, and then stop and display a predetermined winning symbol.

(Step S205)
As described above, the CPU 201a transmits a signal for controlling the second start port opening / closing solenoid 120b at the timing when the normal symbol starts to change and stops after a predetermined time has elapsed, and based on the signal, the second start port 120 is controlled. In the short-time gaming state, the second start port 120 repeats the opening operation for 1.2 seconds four times.

Next, control when a game ball enters the first start port 105 or the second start port 120 will be described.
When the first start port detector 221 detects that a game ball has entered the first start port 105, the detection signal is transmitted to the main control board 201. When the signal is received, the first special symbol lottery means 300 extracts any random number value (game data of the present invention) from random number values (for example, 0 to 600) prepared in advance. The random value extracted here includes a hit random number, a design random number, and a reach random number. The winning random number is a random number for determining whether or not it is a big hit, and the design random number is a random number for determining the type of winning (long hit, short hit). The reach random number is a random number for determining whether or not to perform reach production.

  The RAM 201c is provided with a game state storage unit 404. Whether the current game state is a normal game state or a special game state (probability game state, short-time game state). Is remembered. When the first special symbol lottery means 300 extracts a random number value, the first random number determination means 303 determines the random number value based on the gaming state stored in the gaming state storage means 404.

  Specifically, if it is a normal gaming state, the extracted random number value is determined based on a special symbol normal time per hit determination table, and if it is a probability variable gaming state, it is determined based on a special symbol probable per hour determination table. In the special symbol normal hour determination table, a first special symbol normal hour determination table and a second special symbol normal hour determination table are prepared, and the first special symbol normal variation determination table is also included in the special symbol normal variation determination table. A symbol probability change time determination table and a second special symbol probability change time determination table are prepared. Each of these determination tables is stored in the ROM 201b, and different tables are referred to based on the gaming state and the starting opening that has entered the ball.

  The random value acquired by the first special symbol lottery means 300 is as shown in FIG. FIG. 7 (a) is an example of a table showing the jackpot winning probability and the winning random number. FIG. 7B is an example of a table (first special symbol random number determination table) for determining the type of jackpot game (number of rounds, probability variation, normal) when winning a symbol random number, that is, a jackpot. FIG. 7C is an example of a table (first special symbol reach random number determination table) showing reach random numbers.

  As shown in FIG. 7A, one winning random number is acquired from 601 random numbers from 0 to 600. 7 and 317 are stored as jackpot random numbers in the first special symbol normal hourly determination table referred to in the normal gaming state, and the first special symbol positive hourly determination table referred to in the probability varying gaming state. 7, 37, 67, 97, 127, 157, 187, 217, 247, 277, 307, 337, 367, 397, 427, 457, 487, 517, 547, 577 are stored as jackpot random numbers .

  When a game ball enters the first starting port 105, the first special symbol lottery means 300 acquires the winning random number. At this time, in the normal gaming state, the first random number determination means 303 determines the hit or loss of the hit random number based on the first special symbol normal hour hit determination table. That is, if the winning random number acquired by entering the first starting port 105 is 7 or 317, it is determined to be winning, and if it is any other random number, it is determined to be lost. Further, in the probability variation gaming state, as shown in the figure, it is determined whether or not it is a win based on the first special symbol probability variation time determination table.

  As a result of the determination of the winning random number, when it is determined that the winning random number is a jackpot random number, the first random number determination unit 303 determines the type of jackpot based on FIG. 7B. The types of jackpots determined here include “long hits” in which the jackpot game time is long and a large amount of game balls can be expected to be paid out, and “short hits” in which the jackpot game time is short. Furthermore, in the long win, only the "probable change time short length" occurs after the jackpot game ends, and only the short game state occurs after the jackpot game ends (the probability change game state is (It does not occur) There is "normal per length". Also, for short wins, only the short-time gaming state occurs after the end of the jackpot game (the probability-changing gaming state does not occur), and both the probability-changing gaming state and the short-time gaming state occur after the jackpot game ends. There is “Short-term per chance”.

  Further, the first special symbol lottery means 300 acquires a reach random number together with the acquisition of the winning random number. If the first random number determination unit 303 determines that the winning random number is lost as a result of the determination, the first random number determination unit 303 uses the acquired reach random number based on FIG. 7 (c-1). Judgment. On the other hand, when it is determined that the winning random number is a big hit, the first random number determining unit 303 determines the acquired reach random number based on FIG. 7C-2.

If the jackpot is won, the reach random number is determined to be reachable with almost all probabilities. Therefore, when the jackpot is won, the reach effect is executed with almost the probability.
On the other hand, if it is determined that the game is lost without winning the jackpot, one of the reach effect and the reach effect is not provided based on the first special symbol reach random number determination table shown in FIG. Is determined. As is clear from FIG. 7 (c-1), at the time of losing, the reach effect is often not executed, but there is still a possibility that the reach effect is executed (so-called gas effect, gas effect).

  When a game ball enters the second start port 120, the second special symbol lottery means 320 acquires the winning random number. At this time, in the normal gaming state, the second random number determination means 323 determines the hit or loss of the hit random number based on the second special symbol normal time hit determination table. However, as shown in FIG. 8 (a), the jackpot winning probability when a game ball enters the second starting port 120 is the jackpot winning probability when the game ball enters the first starting port 105. It will be different. In other words, in the normal gaming state, if the winning random number acquired by entering the second starting port 120 is 7, 157, 317, 517, it is determined to be a big hit, and if it is any other random number, it is lost. Is determined. Further, in the probability variation gaming state, it is determined whether or not the winning is based on the second special symbol probability variation time determination table. This second special symbol probability variation time determination table is also the first The special symbol probability change per hour determination table is different from the jackpot winning probability.

FIG. 8B is an example of a table (second special symbol random number determination table) for determining the type of the jackpot game when winning the symbol random number and the jackpot. FIG. 8C is an example of a table showing the reach random numbers (second special symbol reach random number determination table).
When it is determined that the acquired random number value is a jackpot random number, the type of jackpot is determined based on FIG. 8B. The lottery probability of this jackpot type is also shown in FIG. 7B. It is different from the random number table shown in.

  That is, the design random number determination table differs between when the game ball enters the first start port 105 and when the game ball enters the second start port 120. Specifically, when a game ball enters the second start opening 120, the percentage of winning per winning length is higher than when the game ball enters the first start opening 105. That is, when a game ball enters the second start port 120, the degree of expectation to win per length with a certain change time is increased.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the winning probability of winning a jackpot, that is, a special win probability, when the game ball enters the first start port 105 and when the game ball enters the second start port 120. The probability of transition to a gaming state (a jackpot gaming state, a probability variation gaming state, a time-saving gaming state) is different. In addition, even when the jackpot is won, the probability of shifting to each special gaming state is different. In this way, by changing the probability of transitioning to the special gaming state and the probability of transitioning to each special gaming state to which different game values are given according to the starting opening into which the game ball has entered, Every time the variable display is started, the player is given a sense of expectation.

As is clear from FIG. 8C, when the jackpot is won, the acquired reach random number is determined to have reach with almost all probabilities. Therefore, when the jackpot is won, the reach effect is executed with almost the probability.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the game is lost without winning the jackpot, one of the reach effect and the reach effect is not provided based on the second special symbol reach random number determination table shown in FIG. 8 (c-1). Is determined. As is clear from FIG. 8 (c-1), at the time of losing, the reach effect is often not executed, but the possibility that the reach effect is executed is also left (so-called gas effect, gas effect).

  As described above, when the first random number determination unit 303 determines each random value, the first special symbol variation control unit 302 starts the variation of the special symbol based on the random number value, and the first special symbol The display control means 301 variably displays the lottery result on the first special symbol display 84. Even when the second random number determination means 323 determines a random value, the same control as described above is performed by the second special symbol display control means 321 and the second special symbol fluctuation control means 322.

On the other hand, when a game ball has entered the first start port 105 and the variation display based on the previous game ball is being displayed, the acquired random number value (game data) is the first value. The data is stored in the first special symbol storage unit 401 of the RAM 201c as reservation data. The first special symbol storage unit 401 is configured as shown in FIG.
That is, FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the storage area related to the holding ball. As is clear from this figure, the first special symbol holding storage means 401 is configured such that the gaming ball is the first start port detecting unit 221. The random number value (hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number) acquired based on the fact that the game ball is detected is stored in association with the order in which the game balls are detected as a holding ball. In other words, when a game ball enters the first start opening 105, the right of the special symbol change display is stored in the first special symbol hold storage means 401 as a so-called hold ball. The reserved balls retained in the storage unit 401 are digested and processed in the storage unit 401 in the order stored.

  Specifically, the first special symbol storage unit 401 includes four storage areas from the first storage area 401 a to the fourth storage area 401 d, each time a game ball enters the first start port 105. The reserved balls are retained in order from the first storage area 401a. That is, when a game ball enters the first start port 105 in a state where the reserve ball is retained in the first storage area 401a, the reserve ball is retained in the second storage area 401b. Thus, the first special symbol hold storage means 401 stores up to four pieces of first hold data. On the other hand, when the first hold data is stored in all of the first storage area 401a to the fourth storage area 401d and a game ball enters the first start port 105, a special symbol variation display is performed. The rights are not reserved. In other words, if the number of reserved balls is retained up to the upper limit number of reserves in the first special symbol storage unit 401, even if a game ball enters the first start port 105, the big hit lottery by the entered ball is Not done. However, even in this case, a predetermined number of prize balls for the game balls entering the first start port 105 are paid out.

  Further, the reserved ball retained in the first special symbol storage unit 401 is always digested (processed) from the first storage area 401 a by the first special symbol variation control unit 302. When the reserved sphere stored in the first storage area 401a is digested, the reserved sphere retained from the second storage area 401b to the fourth storage area 401d moves from the storage area to the previous area. That is, when the reserved ball retained in the first storage area 401a is digested, the game data stored in the second storage area 401b moves to the first storage area 401a. Similarly, game data stored in the third storage area 401c is transferred to the second storage area 401b, and game data stored in the fourth storage area 401d is transferred to the third storage area 401c. Therefore, the fourth storage area 401d can again accept a holding ball, that is, store game data.

  On the other hand, when a game ball enters the second start port 120, if the variation display based on the previous game ball is being displayed, the second special symbol storage unit 402 stores the game ball. A random number value (hit random number, symbol random number, reach random number) acquired based on the detection by the second starting port detection unit 225 is stored as second reserved data in association with the order in which game balls are detected. . That is, when a game ball enters the second start port 120, the right to display the special symbol, that is, the right to win the big prize is stored in the second special symbol storage unit 402 as a reserved ball. The right to display the variation of the special symbol reserved in the storage area 402 is digested and processed in the storage area 402 by the second special symbol variation control means 322 in the stored order.

  Specifically, the second special symbol storage unit 402 includes four storage areas from the fifth storage area 402a to the eighth storage area 402d, and each time a game ball enters the second start port 120, The game data is stored in order from the fifth storage area 402a. In other words, when game data is stored in the fifth storage area 402a and a game ball enters the second start port 120, game data is stored in the sixth storage area 402b. In this way, up to four reserved balls are reserved in the second special symbol storage unit 402. On the other hand, when a game ball enters the second start port 120 in a state where the reserve ball is retained in all of the fifth storage area 402a to the eighth storage area 402d, the above-mentioned variation display is performed as the reserve ball. Rights are not reserved. In other words, if the number of reserved balls is retained up to the upper limit number of reserves in the second special symbol storage means 402, even if a game ball enters the second start port 120, Not done. However, even in this case, a predetermined number of prize balls for the game balls entering the second start port 120 are paid out.

  In addition, when a plurality of reserved balls are reserved in the second special symbol storage unit 402, it is digested from the fifth storage area 402a, but the reserved balls stored in the fifth storage area 402a are digested. Then, the reserved ball retained from the sixth storage area 402b to the eighth storage area 402d moves from the storage area to the previous area. In other words, when the reserved ball retained in the fifth storage area 402a is digested, the game data stored in the sixth storage area 402b moves to the fifth storage area 402a. Similarly, game data stored in the seventh storage area 402c is transferred to the sixth storage area 402b, and game data stored in the eighth storage area 402d is transferred to the seventh storage area 402c. Therefore, the eighth storage area 402d can again accept a holding ball, that is, store game data.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, since the storage balls are reserved for each start opening into which the game balls have entered, the storage balls are reserved, so that the random numbers related to these hold balls and the start openings into which the game balls have entered Are stored in association with each other. In other words, the first hold data stored in the first special symbol hold storage unit 401 is retained as a hold ball obtained by the game ball entering the first start port 105, and the second special symbol hold storage unit 402. The second hold data stored in is retained as a hold ball obtained by entering a game ball into the second start port 120. However, as described above, the object of the present invention can be achieved even if the holding balls are stored by another method without storing the holding balls separately in the two storage units 401 and 402. For example, one special symbol holding storage means is provided, and the game data acquired by the game ball entering the starting port is stored in the special symbol holding storage means. At this time, the object of the present invention can be achieved if each game data is stored in association with a flag indicating the start port into which the game ball has entered. In any case, it is only necessary that the start opening into which the game ball enters is associated with the game data.

As shown in FIG. 8C, the eight storage areas from the first storage area 401a to the eighth storage area 402d are all hit random number storage areas, symbol random number storage areas, and reach random number storage areas. have. The hit random number storage area is an area for storing a hit random number used for determining whether or not to start the big hit game. In addition, in the case of a jackpot, the symbol random number storage area determines whether or not the stop symbol form of the first special symbol display 84 or the second special symbol display 86 is a probability variation symbol (the number of rounds is 15 rounds). This is an area for storing symbol random numbers used in the process. The reach random number storage area is an area for storing a reach random number used for determining whether or not to perform a reach effect.
Then, as described above, when the reserved ball is reserved in the first special symbol storage unit 401, the first special symbol display control unit 301 displays the number of reserved balls held in the first special symbol hold display. Displayed on the device 88.

  Note that the second special symbol lottery means 320 and the second special symbol display control means 321 also when a game ball enters the second start port 120 and the second start port detector 225 detects a game ball. The second special symbol variation control means 322 and the second random number determination means 323 perform the same processing as described above.

When the reserved balls are reserved in both the special symbol storage units 401 and 402, the reserved balls are digested in the following order. For example, as shown in FIG. 10 (a), the reserved balls are retained in the first storage area 401 a to the third storage area 401 c of the first special symbol storage unit 401, and the fifth special symbol storage unit 402 It is assumed that the holding ball is reserved in the storage area 402a and the sixth storage area 402b.
In addition, the order in which the game balls enter the first start port 105 and the second start port 120 is, as illustrated, the first start port 105 → the second start port 120 → the first start port 105 → the second. It is assumed that the start port 120 → the first start port 105.

  At this time, based on which game data the special symbol variation display is started based on, the on-hold digestion determining means 330 determines by lottery. The specific control of the reserved digest determining means 330 will be described later in detail. As shown in FIG. 10A, both the first special symbol reserved storage means 401 and the second special symbol reserved storage means 402 are used. If the reserved ball is reserved, the special symbol variation display is started based on the game data stored in either the first storage area 401a or the fifth storage area 402a.

Then, as a result of the lottery by the reserved digest determining means 330, for example, when the special symbol variation display is started based on the game data stored in the fifth storage area 402a, as shown in FIG. In the second special symbol hold storage means 402, the game data is shifted to the previous storage area.
When the variation display of the special symbol started as described above is finished, it is determined from which game data the variation display of the next special symbol is started based on the state shown in FIG. 10B. It is determined again by the determining means 330. As a result, if it is determined that the change display of the special symbol is started based on the game data stored in the first storage area 401a, as shown in FIG. 10 (c), the first special symbol is displayed. In the holding storage means 401, the game data is shifted.

  As described above, when a reserved ball is reserved in both the storage means 401 and 402, the reserved digest determining means 330 displays the special symbol variation display based on the game data stored in the first storage area 401a. Or whether to start the variable symbol special display based on the game data stored in the fifth storage area 402a.

  When the special symbol variable display is started, the first special symbol display control unit 301 or the second special symbol display control unit 321 stops the variable display after a predetermined time has elapsed, and the first special symbol display 84. Alternatively, the determination result is displayed on the second special symbol display 86.

During the special symbol variation display, the decorative symbol effect by the symbol display unit 104, the lamp effect by the lamp 112 (the lamp 262), the sound effect by the speaker 277, or the effect character 115, 116 (the character object portion 254). An effect production is performed, and a lottery winning result is notified to the player together with various elaborate productions.
Hereinafter, the control when a game ball enters the start port will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

  As shown in FIG. 11, first, the first start port detection unit 221 or the second start port detection unit 225 detects that a game ball has entered the first start port 105 or the second start port 120.

(Step S301)
Then, a variation determining means (not shown) of the main control board 201 determines whether or not the special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner. At this time, if it is determined that the special symbol is being displayed in a variable manner, the right to display the special symbol based on the incoming ball is reserved as a reserved ball, so the processing from step S302 is performed. On the other hand, if it is determined that the variation display of the special symbol is not being performed, the variation display of the special symbol based on the incoming ball is immediately performed, and the process proceeds to step S304.

(Step S302)
If it is determined in step S301 that the special symbol variation display is in progress, the game is stored in the fourth storage area 401d of the first special symbol hold storage means 401 or the eighth storage area 402d of the second special symbol hold storage means 402. It is determined whether data is stored. Specifically, when a ball entry signal is received from the first start port detector 221, it is determined whether the number of reserved balls retained in the first special symbol storage unit 401 is less than 4, and the second start When the incoming signal is received from the mouth detector 225, it is determined whether or not the number of reserved balls in the second special symbol storage unit 402 is less than 4.

  If it is determined in step S302 that there are four reserved balls, the special symbol variation display, that is, the jackpot lottery is not performed depending on the game ball entering, so the control is ended as it is. .

(Step S303)
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S302 that the number of reserved balls is less than 4, that is, it is determined that the reserved balls are reserved, the first special symbol lottery means 300 or the second special symbol lottery means 320 stores game data (each random number). To get. Then, the acquired game data is stored in the first storage area 401a to the fourth storage area 401d or the fifth storage area 402a to the eighth storage area 402d).

(Step S304)
In addition, when the first start port detecting unit 221 or the second start port detecting unit 225 detects a signal in step S301, the special symbol related to the entry of the previous game ball is not displayed. In this case, it is determined to which start port the game ball has entered. Here, it is determined whether or not a game ball has entered the second start port 120, and when a game ball has entered the second start port 120, the processing after (A) in FIG. When a game ball enters the first starting port 105, the processing after (B) in FIG. 12 is performed.

(Variation start processing)
Next, a special symbol variation start process when processing a retained ball retained in the first special symbol reservation storage unit 401 or the second special symbol reservation storage unit 402 will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S401)
The change start process of the reserved ball is performed when at least one reserved ball is reserved in the first special symbol hold storage unit 401 and the second special symbol hold storage unit 402. In step S401, first, it is determined whether or not game data (second pending data) is stored in the fifth storage area 402a.

(Step S402)
If it is determined in step S401 that game data is stored in the fifth storage area 402a, it is further determined whether or not game data is stored in the first storage area 401a. That is, in this step S402, whether or not the holding ball is held in both the first special symbol holding storage means 401 and the second special symbol holding storage means 402, in other words, the first holding data and the second holding data It is determined whether or not both are stored.

  In step S402, if it is determined that no game data (first hold data) is stored in the first storage area 401a, the hold ball is reserved only in the second special symbol hold storage means 402. Means that Therefore, if it is determined “NO” in step S402, processing is performed for the retained ball retained in the second special symbol retaining storage unit in step S410 and later described later.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S402 that game data (first hold data) is stored in the first storage area 401a, the first special symbol hold storage means 401 and the second special symbol hold storage means 402 It means that the reserved ball is reserved on both sides. Therefore, in this case, in step S403 to step S408 described below, it is determined which of the reserved ball related to the first reserved data and the reserved ball related to the second reserved data is to be processed.

(Step S403)
In step S403, the stored number of the first reserved data is greater than the stored number of the second reserved data, in other words, the reserved ball retained in the first special symbol reserved storage means 401 is the second special symbol reserved. It is determined whether the number is more than the number of reserved balls reserved in the storage unit 402.

(Step S404)
If it is determined in step S403 that the stored number of the first reserved data is not larger than the stored number of the second reserved data, conversely, the stored number of the second reserved data is equal to the first reserved data. It is determined whether the number is greater than the stored number. In other words, it is determined whether the number of reserved balls retained in the second special symbol reservation storage unit 402 is greater than the number of reserved balls retained in the first special symbol reservation storage unit 401.

(Step S405)
In the case where it is determined as “NO” in the above step S403 and step S404, the number of reserved balls retained in the first special symbol storage unit 401 and the number of retained balls in the second special symbol storage unit 402 are described. This is a case where the reserved number is equal.
As described above, when the same number of reserved balls are reserved in the first special symbol hold storage unit 401 and the second special symbol hold storage unit 402, the first hold digest determination table is selected.

(Step S406)
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S404 that the number of stored second reserved data is larger than the number of stored first reserved data ("YES" in step S404), that is, the second special symbol reserved storage unit 402 When it is determined that the reserved number of reserved balls in is greater than the reserved number of reserved balls in the first special symbol storage unit 401, the second reserved digest determination table is selected.

(Step S407)
If it is determined in step S403 that the number of first reserved data is larger than the number of second reserved data (“YES” in step S403), that is, the first special symbol reserved storage unit 401. When it is determined that the reserved number of reserved balls in is greater than the reserved number of reserved balls in the second special symbol reserved storage means 402, the third reserved digest determination table is selected.

  As described above, in step S403 to step S405, when the held ball is retained in both the first special symbol hold storage unit 401 and the second special symbol hold storage unit 402, the first special symbol hold storage unit 401 stores Whether there are many reserved balls that are reserved, whether there are many reserved balls reserved in the second special symbol storage unit 402, or the number of the same number in the first special symbol storage unit 401 and the second special symbol storage unit 402 It is determined whether the holding ball is reserved. If there are many reserved balls retained in the first special symbol storage unit 401, the third reserved digest determination table is selected (step S407), and the retained balls retained in the second special symbol storage unit 402 If there are many, the second pending digest determination table is selected (step S406). If the same number of reserved balls are reserved in the first special symbol reservation storage unit 401 and the second special symbol reservation storage unit 402, the first reservation digestion determination table is selected (step S405).

  FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram of each table selected in steps S405 to S407. That is, “0” or “1” is assigned to each table, but the same number of “0” and “1” values are assigned to the first pending digest determination table (FIG. 13). (A)). On the other hand, the values of “0” and “1” are allocated in the ratio of 3: 7 in the second reserved digest determination table (FIG. 13B), and “0” is allocated in the third reserved digest determination table. "And" 1 "are assigned at a ratio of 7: 3 (FIG. 13C).

(Step S408)
Here, based on each of the above tables, the reserved digest determining means 330 determines the reserved balls to be subjected to the variation starting process by lottery. At this time, the reserved digest determining means 330 randomly acquires a value of “0” or “1”, and when “1” is acquired, the variable symbol display is performed based on the first reserved data. When “0” is acquired, special symbol variation display is started based on the second reserved data. In other words, when the reserved digest determining means 330 acquires “1”, the reserved sphere retained in the first special symbol storage means 401 is digested, and when “0” is acquired, the second The reserved ball retained in the special symbol storage unit 402 is digested.

Therefore, as is clear from FIG. 13 (a), when the same number of reserved balls are retained in the first special symbol storage unit 401 and the second special symbol storage unit 402, the probability is equal. Any one of the reserved balls will be processed. Further, as is clear from FIGS. 13B and 13C, the number of reserved balls reserved in the first special symbol storage unit 401 and the number of reserved balls reserved in the second special symbol storage unit 402. If there is a difference between the two, the retained ball having the larger reserved number is processed with a high probability.
As a result, in the first special symbol storage unit 401 and the second special symbol storage unit 402, there is a disadvantage that the reserved ball reaches the upper limit reserved number in either one and the reserved number of the reserved ball is small in either one. It becomes difficult.

(Step S409)
As described above, when the reserved digest determining means 330 determines to start the variable symbol display based on the second reserved data, that is, based on the game data stored in the fifth storage area 402a. When it is determined to start the special symbol variation display, the processing of step S410 to step S415 is performed. On the other hand, when the reserved digest determining means 330 determines to start displaying the variation of the special symbol based on the first reserved data, that is, the variation of the special symbol based on the game data stored in the first storage area 401a. If it is decided to start the display, the processing from step S416 to step S419 is performed.

(Step S410)
In step S409, when it is determined to start the variable symbol display based on the game data (second hold data) stored in the fifth storage area 402a, or in step S402, the first If it is determined that no game data is stored in the storage area 401a, the game data stored in the fifth storage area 402a is shifted to a predetermined processing area. When game data is stored in the sixth storage area 402b to the eighth storage area 402d, the game data is shifted to the previous storage area. When game data is stored only in the fifth storage area 402a (when the sixth storage area 402b to the eighth storage area 402d are empty areas), the game data stored in the fifth storage area 402a Only the process of storing in the processing area is performed.

(Step S411)
Then, a predetermined program on the main control board 202 determines whether or not the gaming state stored in the gaming state storage unit 404 is a probability change gaming state.

(Step S412) (Step S413)
If it is determined in step S411 that the game state is not the probability change game state (normal game state, time-saving game state), the second special symbol normal time determination table is selected, and in step S411, the probability change game state is determined. If it is determined, the second special symbol probability changing time determination table is selected.

(Step S414)
Then, as described above, when any table is selected, the second random number determination means 323 determines the game data (winning random number) shifted to the processing area based on the table, and the design random number Determination and reach random number determination are performed based on a predetermined table. If it is determined that the reach effect is present as a result of the reach random number determination, the effect random number is further acquired, and the rough contents of the effect and the time required for the effect are determined based on the effect random number.

(Step S415)
In step S415, an effect execution command is determined based on the effect random number acquired in step S414, and the effect execution command is transmitted to the sub control board 202 by the effect execution command transmission means 333. However, in the case of an effect without reach (lost effect), an effect execution command for a lost effect is transmitted without obtaining an effect random number. In this way, when the effect execution command is transmitted, the second special symbol display control means 321 starts the special symbol variable display on the special symbol display 84.

(Step S416)
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S401 that no game data is stored in the fifth storage area 402a (the second special symbol hold storage unit 402 has no hold ball, only the first special symbol hold storage unit 401 has If it is determined that the reserved ball is reserved), or the reserved digest determining means 330 holds the first special symbol in the state where the reserved balls are reserved in both of the reserved storage means 401 and 402 in step S409. If it is determined to process the held ball retained in the storage unit 401, the game data stored in the first storage area 401a is shifted to a predetermined processing area. When game data is stored in the second storage area 401b to the fourth storage area 401d, the game data is shifted to the previous storage area. When game data is stored only in the first storage area 401a (when the second storage area 401b to the fourth storage area 401d are empty areas), the game data stored in the first storage area 402a Only the process of storing in the processing area is performed.

(Step S417)
Then, as in step S411, a predetermined program on the main control board 202 determines whether or not the gaming state stored in the gaming state storage unit 404 is a probability change gaming state.

(Step S418) (Step S419)
If it is determined in step S417 that the game state is not the probability change game state (normal game state, short-time game state), the first special symbol normal time determination table is selected. In step S417, the probability change game state is determined. If it is determined, the first special symbol probability change time determination table is selected. Thereafter, after the processing of step S414 and step S415 is performed, the first special symbol display control means 301 starts the special symbol display on the special symbol indicator 82.

In step S415, when an effect execution command is transmitted to the sub control board 202, the sub control board 202 starts control of the effect. This production control will be described with reference to FIG.
When the effect execution command is received, the effect execution command is stored in the processing area of the RAM 202c. The effect execution command includes a command related to either the first storage area 401a or the fifth storage area 402a, a command related to jackpot or lose, presence / absence of reach, and type of reach effect The scale and scale are stored.

(Step S501)
The effect lottery means 501 performs the effect lottery in order to determine more detailed effect contents, and the effect lottery is determined based on a table provided for each effect execution command.
For example, it is assumed that the received effect execution command is a reach effect command and the change time, that is, the effect time, is determined to be 30 seconds on the main control board 201. In this case, a 30-second reach effect table is selected. This table stores a plurality of control commands in which background patterns, reach patterns, appearance characters, and the like are variously combined. .
Thus, the table corresponding to the received effect execution command is selected here.

(Step S502)
When the table is selected as described above, the effect lottery means 501 determines one effect pattern from the plurality of effect patterns stored in the table.

(Step S503)
When the effect pattern is determined as described above, the effect control unit 502 controls the symbol display unit 104, the speaker 277, the lamp 112, and the accessory part 254 in accordance with these effect patterns. As a result, various effects are performed during the special symbol variation display, and the player's expectation is enhanced.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, when the first hold data and the second hold data are stored, it is determined by lottery based on which hold data the variable symbol display is started. There is no such a case that only the right of variable display of special symbols related to either one of the reserved data is reserved. Therefore, when an upper limit is set for each of the number of stored first hold data and the number of stored second hold data, the state in which only one of the hold data reaches the upper limit is reduced. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the player from being disadvantaged, and it is not necessary to stop the launch of the game ball in order to prevent the so-called wasteful hit, and it is possible to prevent the gameability from being lowered. That is, it is possible to ensure high gameability by providing two start ports.

  In the present embodiment, the winning probability of winning a jackpot and the probability of transition to each special gaming state when the game ball enters the first start opening 105 and when the game ball enters the second start opening 120. Is different. Therefore, by determining by lottery whether the special symbol variation display is to be started based on which of the first retention data and the second retention data, the player has various expectations for each variation display. Can be given. In this way, since various expectations are given each time the change display is started, even if one of the holding data reaches the upper limit and the player stops firing the game ball, the player Less fatigue is felt.

  In the above embodiment, the winning probability (shift to the special gaming state) between the case where a game ball enters the first start port 105 and the case where a game ball enters the second start port 120. Probability) is different. In addition, the probability of transitioning to which special game state among the plurality of special game states to which different game values are given when the jackpot is won is made different between the two start ports 105 and 120. However, for example, the probability of transition to each special gaming state may be made equal by changing only the jackpot winning probabilities at the start ports 105 and 120. Alternatively, it is also possible to make the jackpot winning probabilities equal at both start ports 105 and 120, and to change only the transition probabilities to the special gaming states.

  In the above embodiment, when there is a difference between the stored number of the first reserved data and the stored number of the second reserved data, the special symbol variation display is started based on the stored data having the larger stored number. The probability that However, the probability that the variation display of the special symbol is started based on the first reserved data and the probability that the variation display of the special symbol is started based on the second reserved data are not related to the number of stored pending data. Even if always equal, the object of the present invention can be achieved.

  However, for example, as in another embodiment shown in FIG. 15, the larger the difference between the number of stored first held data and the number of stored second held data, the greater the number of stored data. The effect of the present invention can be further enhanced by increasing the probability that symbol display is started.

It is a front view of the gaming machine of the present embodiment. It is the elements on larger scale of FIG. It is a block diagram of a control means. It is a detailed block diagram in a main control board and a sub control board. It is a flowchart which shows the control at the time of memorize | storing hold in a normal symbol hold | maintenance memory | storage means. It is a flowchart which shows the change start process of the normal symbol in a main control board. It is an example of the determination table which determines the random number value at the time of a game ball having entered the 1st starting port, and this random number value. It is an example of the random number value at the time of a game ball having entered into the 2nd starting port, and the determination table which determines this random number value. It is a conceptual diagram of the special symbol reservation storage means of the present invention. It is a figure explaining the digestion order of holding | maintenance. It is a flowchart which shows the control at the time of a game ball having entered into a starting port. It is a flowchart which shows the change start process of the special symbol in a main control board. It is a conceptual diagram of the pending | holding digestion determination table for determining which change display of a special symbol is started based on which holding data. It is a flowchart which shows the effect process in a sub control board. It is a conceptual diagram which shows another example of the said pending | holding digestion determination table.

Explanation of symbols

84, 86 Special symbol display 105 constituting the special symbol variation display means of the present invention The first start port
120 2nd starting port
200 Control means
300 first special symbol lottery means 301 first special symbol display control means 302 first special symbol fluctuation control means 303 first random number determination means 320 second special symbol lottery means 321 second special symbol display control means 322 second special symbol fluctuation Control means 323 Second random number determination means 330 Hold digest determination means 401 First special symbol hold storage means 402 Second special symbol hold storage means

Claims (2)

Control means for controlling the progress of the game in the normal game state or in a special game state to which a game value advantageous to the normal game state is given;
Special symbol variation display means for variably displaying the special symbol and stopping the variation display after a predetermined time has elapsed;
A first starting port and a second starting port for generating a right to start displaying the variation of the special symbol by the special symbol variation display means when the game ball enters,
The control means includes
Game data lottery means for acquiring game data triggered by a game ball entering the start opening, and performing a lottery for acquiring the right to shift to the special game state;
Based on the game data acquired by the game data lottery means, game data determination means for determining the presence or absence of right acquisition to shift to the special game state,
When a game ball enters the first start port or the second start port during the special symbol variation display, the game data acquired at the start of the game is stored as first hold data or second hold data. A special symbol holding storage means for retaining the right of variable display of the special symbol, and a gaming machine comprising:
The game data determination means uses the determination based on the game data acquired when the game ball enters the first starting port and the game data acquired when the game ball enters the second start port. With the determination based on, the acquisition probability of the right to shift to the special gaming state is different,
When both the first reserved data and the second reserved data are stored in the special symbol hold storage means, the control means draws a lot to determine which of the reserved data to start the variable symbol display. A game machine characterized by comprising a pending digestion determining means for determining according to. Control the progress of the game in one of the special game states that are given the game value that is more advantageous than the normal game state or the game value that is different from the normal game state. Control means to
Special symbol variation display means for variably displaying the special symbol and stopping the variation display after a predetermined time has elapsed;
A first starting port and a second starting port for generating a right to start displaying the variation of the special symbol by the special symbol variation display means when the game ball enters,
The control means includes
Game data lottery means for acquiring game data triggered by a game ball entering the starting port and performing a right acquisition lottery to shift to any one of the special game states;
Based on the game data acquired by the game data lottery means, game data determination means for determining whether or not to acquire the right to shift to the special gaming state and which special gaming state to shift to among the plurality of special gaming states When,
When a game ball enters the first start port or the second start port during the special symbol variation display, the game data acquired at the start of the game is stored as first hold data or second hold data. A special symbol holding storage means for retaining the right of variable display of the special symbol, and a gaming machine comprising:
The game data determination means uses the determination based on the game data acquired when the game ball enters the first starting port and the game data acquired when the game ball enters the second start port. With the determination based on, the transition probability to each special gaming state is different,
When both the first reserved data and the second reserved data are stored in the special symbol hold storage means, the control means draws a lot to determine which of the reserved data to start the variable symbol display. A game machine characterized by comprising a pending digestion determining means for determining according to.

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