JP2010017291A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of surely executing a series of related performances by securing holding balls. <P>SOLUTION: During a period in which it is impossible to start the variable display of special symbols generated immediately after the start of the variable display of the special symbol relating to a preset specified special symbol indicating that a drawing result is a small winning or a short winning for instance, variable display holding time capable of holding a plurality of rights to start the variable display of the special symbol capable of executing the related performance in special symbol holding storage means 401 and 402 is provided. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that draws a winning combination such as a big hit when a game ball enters a start opening.

  Conventionally, a lottery of a jackpot or the like is performed by entering a game ball at the start opening, and for example, a gaming machine in which an attacker is released when winning a jackpot, and more prize balls can be obtained is known ing. Such a gaming machine displays a lottery result while giving various elaborate effects on a symbol display unit or the like composed of a liquid crystal screen or the like in order to give a player a sense of expectation for a jackpot and improve game performance.

  Normally, a gaming machine notifies a lottery result by displaying a special symbol representing a jackpot or a loss on a special symbol display section in a stopped state, but it is predetermined according to various conditions until the lottery result is notified. (For example, 10 seconds). Until the special symbol in the stopped state is displayed on the special symbol display section, in other words, the special symbol is displayed in a fluctuating state until a predetermined time elapses after the lottery starts (hereinafter referred to as fluctuating). Display). When a game ball enters the start port during the variable display, the variable display right (hereinafter referred to as “holding ball”) is reserved up to a predetermined number (for example, four) and processed after the predetermined time has elapsed. There is a gaming machine that enhances the effect by focusing on the point where the processing of the reserved balls is sequentially performed (see Patent Document 1).

  In general gaming machines, while a special symbol is variably displayed on the special symbol display unit, various decorative symbols (designation symbols) are displayed on the decorative symbol display unit. One variation display (effect) of the decorative symbol is performed with respect to one variation display of the special symbol. On the other hand, when a plurality of reserved balls are reserved, the special symbol display unit continuously displays the special symbol multiple times, and the decorative symbol display unit continuously displays the decorative symbol variation display. .

  The gaming machine described in Patent Literature 1 relates to a related effect (a plurality of contents related to each other) that completes one story by, for example, associating the variation display of each decoration symbol continuously over a plurality of variations of the decoration symbol display. The display of the decorative pattern of ()) produces a higher effect than that in the case where only the variable display of the decorative pattern is performed once.

  For example, when there are three reserved balls, the decoration symbol display unit continuously performs the effect by the decoration symbol three times. At this time, the gaming machine performs an effect related to the beginning of the story and notifies the player of the lottery result in the first variation display of the decorative symbols. Subsequently, during the second variation display of decorative symbols, an effect related to the middle of the story, which is a continuation of the first effect, is performed, and the lottery result is notified to the player. Then, the gaming machine performs an effect that the story is completed during the third variation display of the decorative symbol, and then notifies the player of the lottery result. In this way, if the story is continued over a plurality of decorative symbol variation displays, the player's expectation can be gradually increased. Therefore, the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 can exhibit a very high stage effect as compared to a gaming machine that produces an effect that a story is completed by a single variation display of decorative symbols.

JP 2004-283544 A

  However, although the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 can perform a related effect, it is not yet determined how many reserved balls will be reserved when the related effect starts. Therefore, since a series of stories developed in the decorative symbol display unit may end in the middle depending on the number of reserved balls reserved, in this case, the gaming machine cannot exhibit the effect specific to the related effect.

  In view of the above background, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can reliably perform a series of related effects by securing a holding ball.

  A gaming machine according to a first aspect of the present invention is a special symbol display means for variably displaying a special symbol, and a start opening for generating a right to start variably displaying the special symbol by the special symbol display means when a game ball enters. And control means for controlling the progress of the game, wherein the control means acquires special game data based on the right to start the variable display of the special symbol related to the ball entering the start opening of the game ball. The symbol lottery means and the right to start the variation display of the special symbol triggered by the entry of the game ball when the game ball enters the start port during a period in which the variation display of the special symbol cannot be started A special symbol holding storage means for retaining, a variation determining means for determining a special symbol to be displayed on the special symbol display means based on the game data acquired by the special symbol lottery means, and the game data Effect determining means for determining the composition of the corresponding effect, and effect control means for effect-controlling related effects over a variable display of a plurality of special symbols based on an effect execution command indicating a result determined by the effect determining means. A special symbol that is a gaming machine and that can execute the related effects during a period in which the special symbol variation display that occurs immediately after the start of the special symbol variation display related to the specific special symbol that is set in advance cannot start. A variable display hold time is provided in which a plurality of rights to start the variable display can be reserved in the special symbol hold storage means.

  The start port is provided in the game board, and the game ball launched into the game area of the game board is configured to be able to enter or pass. The configuration of the start port is not particularly limited as long as it can detect that a game ball has entered or passed (hereinafter referred to as “entered ball” or the like). When a game ball enters the start opening, game data is acquired by lottery or the like by the special symbol lottery means, and whether or not the right to execute a jackpot game is acquired based on the acquired game data (a jackpot determination) The game state (determination of jackpot type) to be executed next to the one game is determined.

  A jackpot game is a game ball that can be entered by opening a bonus opening and closing device, which normally makes it impossible or difficult to enter a game ball. It is a game in which a prize ball corresponding to is paid out. There are no particular restrictions on the form of the accessory or the pattern for releasing the accessory, but for example, a round of games that end when a predetermined number of game balls enter the opened accessory or a predetermined time elapses. It is better to repeat multiple rounds.

  The game data is made up of, for example, a random number value or a command acquired by a random number generation means or the like, and the game data includes at least so-called jackpot game data and lost game data. The jackpot game data is classified into a plurality of types, and jackpot type game data is included. In other words, the contents (modes) of the jackpot game to be executed and the game state of the game performed after the jackpot game, for example, whether the jackpot winning probability is high or low (whether the game state becomes a high probability game state or a low probability game state? ) Etc. are appropriately combined.

  The special symbol is a symbol for notifying the player of a lottery result of the game data, that is, whether the game is a big hit or lost. That is, the special symbol corresponding to the lottery result of one game data is displayed in a stationary state on the special symbol display means. In addition, the game data lottery result may have a small win in addition to the big win and the loss. When winning a small win, after the end of the change display of the special symbol indicating the small win, as with the big win game, there is usually a feature such as a big prize opening and closing device that makes it impossible or difficult to enter the game ball It is a small hit game that is opened and allows game balls to enter, and award balls according to the game balls are paid out. The difference between the jackpot game and the jackpot game is the total opening time of the bonuses, and the opening time of the jackpot game is longer.

  The special symbol variation display means that the special symbol is displayed in a variation state on the special symbol display means and finally displayed in a stationary state to inform the player of the lottery result of the game data. The game data lottery is started. It takes a predetermined time until the special symbol is finally displayed in a stationary state after the special symbol starts to be displayed in a fluctuating state. Eventually, it is only necessary to notify the player of the game data lottery result, so the time from when the variable display is started until the final special symbol is displayed to the player, that is, the special symbol is changing. The display to the player is not essential, and the case where no display is made to the player during the change is also included in the change display in the present invention.

  When the lottery result of the game data is, for example, a big hit or a small win and is other than a lose, the big hit game or the small hit game is generally executed after the special symbol variation display process is completed. For example, if the lottery result of the game data is a jackpot, the jackpot game is executed after the display of the special symbol change display. During the jackpot game, you cannot start the variable display of special symbols, so if the jackpot game ends and you have the right to start a new variable display, or if the right to start the variable display is reserved Then, the change display of the special symbol related to the right is started. That is, the period during which the special symbol variation display cannot be started includes the special symbol variation display time and the game time of the game corresponding to the special symbol.

  In other words, if the lottery result of the game data is other than losing, during the period from the start of the variable display of one special symbol to the start of the variable display of the next special symbol, that is, the next special symbol During the period when the change display cannot be started, the change display of one special symbol and the game corresponding to the specific special symbol displayed in a stationary state on the special symbol display means (big hit game or small hit game) Executed.

  By the way, when a game ball enters the start port during a period when the special symbol variation display cannot be started, the special symbol variation display triggered by the entry of the new game ball is displayed in the special symbol hold storage means. The right to start is reserved. Based on the right to start the variable display of the special symbol, the game data is drawn, the production execution command representing the composition of the production is determined based on the game data, and the production control means controls the production based on the production execution command. To do. That is, one presentation is performed corresponding to one special symbol variation display. That is, when the variation display of a plurality of special symbols is performed continuously, a plurality of effects can be performed continuously. That is, a related effect can be performed.

  Multiple special symbol holding storage means have the right to start the special symbol variable display that can execute the related effects during the period when the special symbol variable display that occurs immediately after the start of the variable display of the specific special symbol cannot be started. Since the variable display hold time that can be reserved is provided, it is possible to reliably reserve the right to start the variable display of the special symbol for performing the related effects triggered by the lottery result corresponding to the specific special symbol. .

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the present invention, a grand prize opening opening / closing device having a big prize opening is provided, and the control means opens the grand prize opening and allows a game ball to enter the grand prize opening. A first special game in which a round game to be executed is executed a plurality of times; a second special game in which the total opening time of the big prize opening in all round games is set shorter than the first special game; The second special game is controlled during the period from the end of the variation display of the specific special symbol to the execution of the related effect.

  If the opening time of the big prize opening at the time of the second special game is short enough to be invisible, the player seems to have suddenly started the related effect after the end of the variable display. Can give people a sense of expectation.

  The special symbol variable display that can execute the related effect is started during the period in which the special symbol variable display that occurs immediately after the start of the special symbol variable display related to the specific special symbol that is set in advance cannot be started. Since a variable display hold time is provided that can reserve a plurality of rights in the special symbol hold storage means, a series of related effects can be reliably performed by securing a plurality of hold balls.

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 a gaming machine according to the present invention. In FIG. 1, gaming boards 101 are horizontally orthogonal. FIG. 2 is a partially enlarged view of the gaming machine, showing how the movable piece 120a of the second start port 120 opens and closes.

  An operation handle 113 having a launching unit (see reference numeral 292 in FIG. 3) is disposed below the game board 101. The game ball launched by driving the launching unit rises between the rails 102a and 102b and reaches the upper part of the game board 101, and then falls within the game area 103. A plurality of nails (not shown) are provided in the game area 103, and the nails change the direction of the falling game ball. On the other hand, a windmill for changing the direction of the game ball and a ball entrance are provided at positions in the middle of the fall of the game ball.

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 receives a game ball, that is, it is impossible or difficult to enter the second starter port 120 (FIG. 2 (a )), When the pair of movable pieces 120a are in the open state, the game ball can be received more easily than the first starting port 105 (see FIG. 2B).
In the pair of movable pieces 120a, the second start port 120 is controlled to the first state where the second start port 120 is less likely to enter the game ball than the first start port 105, and the second start port 120 is the first start port 105. In some cases, the second state is controlled so that the game ball can easily enter.

A winning gate 106 is arranged on the left side of the symbol display unit 104.
When the passing of the game ball through the winning gate 106 is detected, a normal symbol lottery that opens the movable piece 120a for a predetermined time is set. A normal winning opening 107 is provided on the side or lower side of the symbol display unit 104. 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, there is provided a collection port 108 for collecting game balls that have not entered the start ports 105 and 120 and the winning port 107.
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. On these two indicators 84 and 86, after the special symbol is variably displayed, the result of lottery is notified by finally displaying it statically. 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 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. The normal symbol display 82 for displaying the lottery result is, for example, the right of the symbol display unit 104. It is provided at the bottom. Then, 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 reserved balls is displayed on the normal symbol hold display 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, In addition, the number of reserved balls obtained by entering the winning gate 106 is notified.

  When the game ball enters the first start port 105 or the second start port 120, the symbol display unit 104 described above starts a variable display of a plurality of decorative symbols. Stop. The fact that a specific symbol (for example, “777”) is arranged at the time of the stop means that the player has won a jackpot. In the case of a big hit game, the operation of opening the big prize opening / closing door 109a in the big prize opening / closing device 109 located below for a certain period is repeated a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times) and the number corresponding to the game balls entered. The prize ball is paid out. 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. If both the first start port 105 and the second start port 120 have a so-called hold ball for variable display, the hold ball obtained by entering the second start port 120 has priority. Digested.

  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.

  An effect light 111 (lamp unit) is provided above and below the game area 103 of the frame member 110. 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.

  Each light 112 also irradiates 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. As a result, the player and the surroundings of the gaming machine are sequentially irradiated so that the surroundings (other players) can be informed that the gaming machine is in a big hit state. The degree 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 addition, a tray unit 119 to which game balls are supplied is provided below the game area 103 of the frame member 110. The tray unit 119 is supplied with game balls lent out from a rental ball device (not shown).
An operation handle 113 is disposed below 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 the drawing 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.

On the lower side of the game area 103 of the frame member 110, a chance button 117 for receiving an operation by the player is provided. 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 includes a plurality of control boards. In the illustrated example, the control means 200 includes a main control board 201, a sub control board 202, a prize ball control board 203, and a lamp control board 206.

  The main control board 201 mainly controls a basic operation related to the game of the gaming machine 1 and executes a basic process according to the progress of the game content based on a program stored in the ROM 201b, and a calculation process of the CPU 201a A RAM 201c or the like that functions as a data work area is provided.

  The main control board 201 performs a lottery lottery (special symbol determination) related to the game, selects an effect execution command recorded in the ROM 201b based on the lottery result, and sends the effect execution command to the sub-control board 202. Send to. The sub-control board 202 controls devices related to effects by the symbol display unit 104, the speaker 277, the lamp control board 206, and the like according to the configuration of the effects based on the received effect execution command.

  This jackpot is pre-programmed to occur with a predetermined probability based on the generated random number. The effect execution command has information related to the game effect, the effect time of the effect corresponding to each effect execution command is set, and effects such as effect background pattern, reach effect pattern, appearance character, voice pattern, etc. The configuration of is set.

  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 start that detects a game ball that has entered the second start port 120. A mouth 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 109 Is connected to a special winning opening detection unit 224 that detects a game ball that has entered the ball.

On the other hand, an accessory operating device 231 is connected to the output side of the main control board 201. In the present embodiment, the accessory actuating device 231 is constituted by a large winning opening / closing solenoid 109b for opening / closing the large winning opening / closing door 109a and a second starting opening / closing solenoid 120b for opening / closing the second starting opening 120. (See FIG. 4).
The above-mentioned accessory actuating device 231 is controlled by the main control board 201 and energizes the big prize opening / closing solenoid 109b to open the big prize opening / closing door 109a in the big hit game (long win game, short win game) The second start opening / closing solenoid 120b is energized to open / close the second start opening 120 by winning the normal symbol.

  The sub control board 202 mainly controls the effects during the game, and stores the CPU 202a that executes the effect processing based on the effect execution commands transmitted from the main control board 201, the program, and the past effect patterns. A ROM 202b and a RAM 202c functioning as a data work area when the CPU 202a performs arithmetic processing are provided.

  The CPU 202a has a function of controlling so that the same effect pattern is not continuously generated in the range of the effect execution 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.

  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. On the other hand, 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 an effect process based on the received effect execution command. That is, the CPU 202a in the sub-control board 202 executes an effect process based on the effect execution 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 includes 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. .

  In addition, 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 execution command described above. That is, in the sub control board 202, the CPU 202a executes audio processing based on the effect execution 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, the CPU 202a reads a program stored in the ROM 202b based on the effect execution command, executes various sound output processes such as effect sound effect processing, and outputs sound from the speaker 277.

  A lamp control board 206 for controlling the lamp 262, the effect light 111 and the accessory part 254 is connected to the output side of the sub control board 202. The lamp control board 206 functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the CPU 206a, a CPU 206a that executes an effect process based on an effect execution command transmitted to the sub control board 202, a ROM 206b that stores various effect pattern data, and the like. 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 execution command transmitted to 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 a drive control of a solenoid for operating the effect accessory 115 on the accessory part 254 based on the effect execution command transmitted to the sub control board 202, and the effect object 116. The drive control of the motor which operates is performed.

  In addition, a prize ball control board 203 is connected to the main control board 201 bidirectionally, that is, capable of transmitting and receiving. 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 or the like for paying out a predetermined number from a game ball storage unit (not shown).

  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 launch unit 292, the prize ball control board 203 drives a solenoid or the like in response to the detected game operation to fire the game ball intermittently (every predetermined interval). A game ball is sent out to the game area 103 of 101.

(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 functions mainly when a game ball enters the first starting port 105, and functions as a first special symbol lottery means 300, a first special symbol display control means. 301, first special symbol fluctuation control means 302, and first random number determination means (the fluctuation determination means 351) 303.
The ROM 201b functions mainly when a game ball enters the second start port 120. The second special symbol lottery means 320, the second special symbol display control means 321, and the second special symbol variation control means 322 function. The second random number determination means (the fluctuation determination means 351) 323 is provided. The first special symbol lottery means 300 and the second special symbol lottery means 320 constitute the special symbol lottery means of the present invention.

In addition, the ROM 201b is a long hit game control means 340, a short hit game control means 341, a high probability game control means 342, a short-time game control means 343, a normal game control means 344, and a small hit game control as means for controlling the progress of the game. Means 345.
Furthermore, the ROM 201b includes a fluctuation display monitoring unit 350, a fluctuation determination unit 351, an effect random number lottery unit 330, an effect determination unit 331, a related effect determination unit 332, and an effect execution command transmission unit 333.
The ROM 201b also includes a normal symbol lottery means 360, a normal symbol display control means 361, a normal symbol variation control means 362, and a normal symbol lottery result determination means 363 that function when a game ball enters the winning gate 106. ing. On the other hand, the ROM 202 b of the sub-control board 202 includes an effect control unit 502.

The RAM 201c of the main control board 201 includes a first special symbol storage unit 401, a second special symbol storage unit 402, a normal symbol storage unit 403, a game state storage unit 404, and a special symbol variation display result storage unit 405. Yes.
Hereinafter, the configuration and function of each means will be described.

  The long hit game control means 340, the short hit game control means 341, the high probability game control means 342, and the short time game control means 343 are programs for controlling the progress of the game when winning a big hit. In the present embodiment, there are a plurality of types of jackpots, and when a jackpot is won, a jackpot type is further determined, and based on this determination, the CPU 201a operates each program and each gaming state. Control the progress of the game. On the other hand, the normal game control means 344 is a program for controlling the progress of the game in a normal game state where the jackpot is not won, that is, in the same state as the initial state when the game is started.

  The long hit game control means 340 obtains the right to execute the long hit game as a result of the big win lottery triggered by the game ball entering the first start port 105 or the second start port 120. Control the progress of the game per long. In the present embodiment, the “long win game” is a kind of jackpot game, and is a game in which the big prize opening and closing device 109 is opened and closed over a total of 15 rounds.

  Here, “round” means that a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses in a state in which the grand prize opening / closing device 109 is in the open state, or a predetermined number (for example, 9 balls) of game balls are used as the start opening. When one of the conditions for entering a ball is satisfied, this means that one opening / closing operation that is in a closed state is executed a predetermined number of times. In this embodiment, the opening time of the big winning 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. . Further, in the present embodiment, when a long winning game is executed, the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening / closing device 109 is set to be executed more frequently than in the short winning game.

  The opening / closing operation of the special prize opening / closing device 109 is performed by the special prize opening / closing solenoid 109b. Specifically, when the CPU 201a operates the long winning game control means 340 to control the long winning game, first, the special winning opening opening / closing solenoid 109b is energized to open the large winning opening / closing door 109a. Then, when the special winning opening detection unit 224 detects that a predetermined number (for example, nine) of gaming balls have entered the special winning opening / closing device 109, for example, the CPU 201a operates the long hit gaming control means 340, The energization of the special prize opening / closing solenoid 109b is stopped.

  Even if a predetermined number of game balls have not entered the grand prize opening opening / closing device 109, when a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) elapses after the grand prize opening opening / closing door 109a is opened, the big prize opening opening / closing solenoid. The energization of 109b is stopped. As described above, when either of the two conditions is satisfied, the energization to the special prize opening / closing solenoid 109b is stopped, and the special prize opening / closing device 109 is closed.

  When a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) elapses after the special prize opening / closing device 109 is closed, the CPU 201a activates the long hit game control means 340 to energize the special prize opening / closing solenoid 109b again. Then, the special winning opening opening / closing door 109a is opened. In this way, the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening / closing device 109 is repeatedly performed for 15 rounds. When a game ball enters the special winning opening / closing device 109, the payout unit 291 receives a winning ball corresponding to the winning combination. To be paid out. Therefore, by executing the long hit game, the player can acquire a large amount of prize balls.

  On the other hand, when the short hit game control means 341 acquires the right to execute the short win game as a result of the big win lottery triggered by the game ball entering the first start port 105 or the second start port 120 In addition, the progress of the short hit game is controlled. In the present embodiment, “short win game” is a type of big win game, which is a game in which the big prize opening and closing device 109 is opened and closed only for two rounds.

  The opening / closing operation of the special prize opening / closing device 109 is performed by the special prize opening / closing solenoid 109b, as in the case of the long winning game. Specifically, when the CPU 201a operates the short hit game control means 341 to control the short hit game, first, the big winning opening opening / closing solenoid 109b is energized to open the big winning opening opening / closing door 109a. However, in the present embodiment, energization of the special winning opening / closing solenoid 109b is stopped instantaneously (for example, 0.2 seconds), and such control is repeated twice at a predetermined interval.

  Therefore, the time for which the big winning opening / closing device 109 is in the open state is extremely short as compared to the above long game, and the possibility that the game ball enters the big winning port opening / closing device 109 is extremely high compared to the long winning game. Lower. Further, since the special winning opening opening / closing door 109a returns to the closed state in an instant, it is difficult for the player to recognize that the special winning opening opening / closing device 109 has been opened. As is clear from this, the “short win game” is not intended to pay out a prize ball to the player, but is intended to improve the game and enhance the interest. However, even in the “short win game”, when a game ball enters the large winning opening / closing device 109, a prize ball corresponding to the winning ball is paid out.

  The high-probability game control means 342 controls the game in a high-probability game state in which the game is progressed in a state where the winning probability of the jackpot (including both long and short wins) is higher than that in the normal game state. In the present embodiment, the high probability gaming state is executed after the long winning game or the short winning game is completed. Specifically, when a game ball enters the first start opening 105 or the second start opening 120, the first special symbol lottery means 300 or the second special symbol lottery means 320 acquires a big hit random number. Then, the first random number determination unit 303 or the second random number determination unit 323 determines the acquired jackpot random number based on a predetermined table. At this time, in a normal gaming state (including a short-time gaming state that is not a high-probability gaming state; hereinafter referred to as a low-probability gaming state), a jackpot random number is determined based on a normal hourly-hit determination table, and a high-probability gaming is performed. In the state, the big hit random number is determined based on the high probability hourly random number determination table. In the high probability hourly random number determination table, the number (type) of random numbers determined to be big hits is set larger than that in the normal hour random number determination table. The jackpot determination and type will be described later in detail.

The short-time game control means 343 is a program for controlling a short-time game. In this embodiment, the short-time game is a short-time change time of the normal symbol by the normal symbol fluctuation control means 362, and the winning of the normal symbol is won. A game with a high probability.
Specifically, when the game ball passes the winning gate 106, a normal symbol lottery is performed. The normal symbol lottery is performed by the CPU 201a operating the normal symbol lottery means 360 to randomly extract random numbers when the game ball passes through the winning gate 106. The random numbers obtained in this way are determined based on the normal symbol normal time determination table in the normal gaming state (including the high probability gaming state that is not the short-time gaming state), and the short-time gaming state is obtained. In this case, the determination is made based on the normal symbol time per hour determination table.

  At this time, in the normal symbol time per hour determination table, a larger number of random numbers that are determined to be hit are set than in the normal symbol normal time per hour determination table. In this way, the winning probability of the normal symbol in the short-time gaming state is as high as 90%, for example. However, when the normal symbol is won, the pair of movable pieces 120a of the second start port 120 are opened for a predetermined time, and the game It becomes easy for the ball to enter the second starting port 120.

  In the short-time gaming state, the normal symbol variation time is shortened compared to the normal gaming state. That is, when the game ball passes through the winning gate 106, random numbers are acquired and the acquired random numbers are determined. At this time, the player is informed whether the result of the normal symbol lottery is a win or a loss. A predetermined time is required until notification. The time required for notifying the player of the result of the normal symbol lottery is set shorter in the short-time gaming state than in the normal gaming state. Thereby, in the short-time gaming state, the lottery results of the normal symbols are notified to the player one after another, and the second start port 120 is frequently opened. As is clear from this, the short-time gaming state means that it is easy to enter the game ball into the second starting port 120, so that the right to win a lottery is obtained without consuming much of the game ball. It is a gaming state that progresses in a possible state.

  Then, the normal game control means 344 controls the progress of the normal game that does not correspond to either the big hit game (long win game, short win game) or the special game state (high probability game state, short-time game state). As described above, the CPU 201a operates any one of the long hit game control means 340, the short hit game control means 341, the high probability game control means 342, the short time game control means 343, and the normal game control means 344 to play a game. Although the progress is controlled, the current game state controlled by each of these control means 340 to 344 is written in the game state storage means 404 of the RAM 201c.

  Next, the normal symbol lottery means 360, the normal symbol display control means 361, the normal symbol variation control means 362, the normal symbol lottery result determination means 363, and the normal symbol hold memory that start control when the game ball passes the winning gate 106. The means 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 it is a normal gaming state, the winning is determined based on the normal symbol normal hour determination table, and if it is a short time gaming state (including a high probability gaming state), it is displayed in the normal symbol short time determination table. The hit is determined based on the result.

  If the result of the determination by the normal symbol lottery result determination means 363 is a win, the second starting 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.
That is, when the game ball passes through the winning gate 106, the normal symbol display 82 displays a lamp that is lit or blinking as if the lottery is currently being performed. After such lighting or blinking for a predetermined time, 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, lottery and variation display of normal symbols 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 the game state other than the short-time game state, the variation time of the normal symbol is set to be as long as 10 seconds, for example, and the probability of winning in the win is also set as low as 10%.
In the second starting port 120, when the normal symbol is won in the above-mentioned short-time game state, the 1.2-second opening / closing operation is performed four times, whereas the normal symbol is not displayed in the game state other than the short-time 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 variation display, the normal symbol lottery means 360, that is, the normal symbol variation display right, is reserved in the normal symbol hold storage unit 403. The 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.

  Note that the following two methods are conceivable when the right to change the display of the normal symbol is retained in the normal symbol hold storage unit 403 as described above. One is to acquire a random value when the game ball passes through the winning gate 106 and store the acquired random value in the normal symbol storage unit 403. Then, the order in which the game balls pass through the winning gate 106 and the random number value are stored in association with each other, and the winning determination based on the random number value is sequentially performed in the passing order. The other is a method in which the normal symbol storage means 403 stores only that the game ball has passed through the winning gate 106, acquires a random number value at the time of the change, and starts a change display based on the random number value. It is.

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 (second start port detector 225) detects that a game ball has entered the first start port 105 (second start port 120), the detection signal is sent to the main control board 201. Sent. When the signal is received, the first special symbol lottery means 300 extracts any one random value (game data of the present invention) from, for example, previously prepared random values (for example, 0 to 600). The random value extracted here includes a jackpot random number, a design random number, and a reach random number. The jackpot random number is a random number for determining the jackpot, the jackpot or the loss, and the symbol random number determines the type of jackpot (the probability of winning the jackpot, whether the winning hit per short, the short hit, whether there is a short time etc.) It is a random number for. The reach random number is a random number for determining whether or not to perform reach production.

  The RAM 201c is provided with a gaming state storage unit 404. The gaming state storage unit 404 has a special gaming state (high probability gaming state, short-time gaming state, etc.) as to whether the current gaming state is a normal gaming state. I remember. Then, when the first special symbol lottery means 300 (second special symbol lottery means 320) extracts the random number value, the first random number determination means 303 (on the basis of the gaming state stored in the gaming state storage means 404) Second random number determination means 323) determines the random number value.

  Specifically, if the gaming state stored in the gaming state storage unit 404 is a normal (low probability) gaming state, the jackpot random number extracted by the first random number determination unit 303 (second random number determination unit 323) is used. Based on the first special symbol normal time determination table (second special symbol normal time determination table), if it is a high-probability gaming state, the first special symbol probability variation time determination table (second special symbol probability variation time) Determine based on a hit determination table. That is, different tables are set so as to be referred to based on the gaming state and the starting opening that has entered the ball.

  For example, a table for determining a random number value acquired by the first special symbol lottery means 300 is as shown in FIG. FIG. 5 (a) is a table (first table) showing winning probabilities such as jackpots, jackpot random numbers for jackpots, and winning jackpot random numbers for jackpots, classified according to normal (low probability) gaming states and high probability gaming states. It is an example of a special jackpot random number determination table. FIG. 5 (b) is a table (first special symbol random number) for determining the symbol random number, that is, the type of jackpot (long / short (number of rounds, etc.), winning probability level, presence / absence of short / short time, etc.) when winning the jackpot It is an example of a determination table. FIG. 5C shows an example of a reach random number, that is, a table (first special symbol reach random number determination table) for determining presence / absence of reach.

  In FIG. 5A, the big hit random number is composed of 601 random numbers from 0 to 600, and each random number is set to big hit, small hit or lost. That is, the random numbers from 1 to 600 are divided into big hits, small hits or loses. For example, in the first special symbol normal hour determination table referred to in the normal gaming state, two random numbers 7 and 317 are stored as winning random numbers on the jackpot, while being referred to in the high probability gaming state. In the first special symbol high probability per hour determination table, 7, 37, 67, 97, 127, 157, 187, 217, 247, 277, 307, 337, 367, 397, 427, 457, 487, 517, 547, 20 random numbers of 577 are stored as winning random numbers in the jackpot.

  When a game ball enters the first starting port 105, the first special symbol lottery means 300 acquires the jackpot random number. At this time, in the normal gaming state, the first random number determination means 303 determines either a big win or a loss based on the first special symbol normal time hit determination table. That is, if the jackpot random number acquired by entering the first starting port 105 is 7 or 317, it is determined that the jackpot is a jackpot. Also, in the high probability gaming state, based on the first special symbol high probability hourly determination table, the first random number determining means 303 is either a big hit or a lost big hit random number acquired by the first special symbol lottery means 300 It is determined whether or not.

  In the present embodiment, a “small hit” is provided separately from the “big hit” described above, and the winning of the “small hit” is also determined by a big hit random number. The “small hit” in the present embodiment is to acquire the right to execute the “small hit game” in which the instant opening operation of the special prize opening / closing device 109 is performed for two rounds, as in the short win game. is there. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 5 (a), regardless of the gaming state, when the big hit random number is 50 or 100, a big hit game in which the big winning opening / closing device 109 is opened for two rounds is executed. The Rukoto. The small hit game is controlled by the CPU 201a operating the small hit game control means 345. Further, as will be described in detail later, this small hit game is not intended for paying out a prize ball, and the player recognizes that the gaming state has shifted to the high probability gaming state, as will be described later. It is provided for the purpose of making it difficult.

  As a result of the determination of the jackpot random number, when it is determined that the jackpot random number is a random number for acquiring the right to execute the jackpot game, the CPU 201a operates the first random number determination unit 303, and FIG. ) To determine (determine) the type of jackpot. The types of jackpots determined here are "per length with high probability and short time", "per length with short time with normal time", "short per length with short time with high probability", "short per short time with normal time", and "short without short time with high probability" There are six types, “winning” and “normal short-time short-winning”.

  "Per length with a high probability of shortening" means that three game values are given. When winning this “long chance with short time with high probability”, as a first game value, a predetermined number of game balls are controlled on the condition that the opening / closing device 109 of the special prize opening is controlled for 15 rounds and one round ends. (9) A long hit game is executed in which a ball is entered or a predetermined time (30 seconds) elapses. Thereby, the player can acquire a large amount of prize balls. When the long hit game ends, the game progresses in the high-probability gaming state as the second gaming value, and the game advances in the short-time gaming state as the third gaming value. As a result, the player can win a large number of prize balls, and after winning the prize balls, can reduce the consumption of the game balls and realize a big win again early. However, the short-time gaming state, which is the third gaming value given here, ends when the special symbol variation display is performed a preset number of times (100 times).

“Normal per short length” gives two game values. This “per length with a short time” is different from the above “per length with a short time with a high probability” in that the winning probability of the jackpot becomes a low-probability gaming state after the end of the long-game.
As described above, in the present embodiment, after the end of the long hit game in which a large amount of prize balls can be obtained, the long win in which the game progresses in the high probability game state where the winning probability of the big win is high, There is provided a long win in which the game progresses in a low-probability gaming state in which the winning probability is low.

  “Short win with high probability short-time” means that the game progresses in a high-probability gaming state in which the winning probability of winning the jackpot is high after repeating the operation of the winning opening opening / closing device 109 for a moment for two rounds. It is. If this “short win with high probability” is selected, a large number of prize balls cannot be obtained immediately by opening the special prize opening / closing device 109, but the subsequent gaming state becomes a high probability gaming state. Therefore, there is a high possibility that a large amount of prize balls will be obtained in subsequent games. In addition, when winning “short win with high probability short-lived”, it becomes short-time game state at the same time as the high-probability gaming state, so it is possible to reduce the consumption of game balls until winning a big hit again.

  “Short hit with normal time” means that the game progresses in a low-probability gaming state in which the winning probability of winning the jackpot is low after repeating the operation for the momentary opening and closing device 109 to open momentarily for two rounds. is there. However, similarly to the above “short win with high probability time-shortening”, since the subsequent gaming state becomes the short-time gaming state, it is possible to reduce the consumption of the game ball only for a predetermined number of times. In the normal game state, if the “short win with normal time” is won, the game value that enables execution of the short time game is only given thereafter, but in the high probability game state, If the player wins the “short win with normal time”, there is a demerit that the win probability of the jackpot will fall from a high probability to a low probability.

  In this embodiment, both the “short win with normal time” and “short win with high probability” have the opening / closing operation of the big prize opening / closing device 109 and the second start port 120 after shifting to the short game state. The same opening / closing operation. Also, as will be described later, the production contents are the same for “short win with normal time” and “short win with high probability”. Therefore, for the player, after the short win game (two round opening / closing operation of the big prize opening / closing device 109) is finished, it is determined whether the win probability of the jackpot is high or low. It has become very difficult to do. In this way, the reason for providing "short win with normal time" is whether the winning probability of jackpot is high probability or low probability when it becomes short-time game state after the short win game ends, This is to make the player have doubts.

  “Short win without short time with high probability” means that, as with the above “Short hit with short time with high probability”, the winning winning opening / closing device 109 is repeatedly opened for two rounds, and then the probability of winning the jackpot is high. It shifts to a high probability gaming state (so-called latent probability changing state). However, this “high probability short-time short win” is different from the above “high probability short-time short hit” in that the short-time game is not started after the short hit game ends. Even if this “high probability short time short win” is won, it is not possible to immediately acquire a large amount of prize balls by opening the special prize opening / closing device 109, but the subsequent gaming state becomes a high probability gaming state. Therefore, there is a high possibility that a large amount of prize balls will be obtained in subsequent games.

  “Normal short time short hit” means that the game progresses in the normal gaming state after repeating the operation for the momentary opening and closing device 109 to open momentarily for two rounds. In other words, even if this “normal short-time short win” is won, neither high-probability gaming state nor short-time gaming state is entered. Moreover, since it is impossible to obtain a large number of prize balls by opening the round winning opening / closing device 109 for two rounds, the player is hardly given the game value due to the big win. . The reason for providing such “normal short-time short wins” is that the player is mainly concerned with whether the winning probability of jackpot is high or low after the short win game. This is to make doubts. In the normal gaming state, if you are elected for the “normal short time without short wins”, there will be no change in the gaming state, but in the high probability gaming state, you will win the “normal short time without short wins”. Then, there is a demerit that the probability of winning the jackpot falls from a high probability to a low probability.

  Further, in the present embodiment, in order to raise a suspicion about the fact that the winning probability of the jackpot is high due to the winning of the “high probability short time short short” win, In addition, there is a “small hit”. However, since this “small hit” is not a kind of big hit, the small hit game is started when the hit random number (50, 100) is acquired instead of the design random number. Similarly to the case of winning the “ordinary short no hit short”, the “small hit game” repeats the operation of opening the big winning opening / closing device 109 for two rounds. However, the “small hit” is different from the “normal short and short hit” in that the gaming state does not change after the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening and closing device 109. In other words, if you win the “Short hit without normal time” in the high probability gaming state, the gaming state becomes the normal gaming state after the short winning game ends, but even if you win the “small hit” in the high probability gaming state Thereafter, the high-probability gaming state continues. In this embodiment, if the lottery result of the game data is a short win or a small win, the type of jackpot is stored if it is stored in the special symbol hold storage means that reserves the right to start the special symbol variation display. After completion of the special symbol variation display, the opening operation of the special prize opening / closing device 109 is instantaneously performed. After the completion of the opening operation of the special prize opening / closing device 109, the variation display of the next special symbol is started. The

When a game ball enters the first starting port 105, the CPU 201a operates the first special symbol lottery means 300 to acquire a reach random number in addition to the jackpot random number and symbol random number. One reach random number is randomly acquired from 0 to 250 random numbers. The reach random number is determined as follows.
That is, when the CPU 201a operates the first random number determination unit 303 to determine that the jackpot random number is a loss, the reach random number is determined based on the reach random number determination table at the time of the loss, If it is determined, and it is further determined that the hit is long, the reach random number is determined based on the reach random number determination table at the time of the big hit. In the reach random number determination table at the time of losing, a random number from 0 to 24 is determined as a reach effect, and other random numbers are determined as a reachless effect.

Therefore, at the time of losing, the probability that the non-reach effect is executed is increased, while the so-called gas reasure effect that gives the player a sense of expectation is executed with a probability of about 10%. In addition, a reach effect is always executed when the jackpot is long.
Here, the reach effect determined by the reach random number and the reach-less effect indicate an aspect of the decorative symbol effect performed in the symbol display unit 104. In other words, during the special symbol variation display, the symbols consisting of several sequences in which the numbers “1” to “9” are continuously written in the vertical direction are displayed in three columns, and the special symbol variation display starts. At the same time, these symbols start scrolling (see FIG. 1).

In the effect with reach, when the scrolling is stopped and the symbols are stopped and displayed after elapse of a predetermined time after the start of scrolling, any two symbols (several sequences) are stopped first. At this time, the same number stops and is displayed on a straight line extending horizontally or diagonally, and the last one row gradually decreases the scrolling speed, and the expectation that three identical numbers may be aligned on the straight line. To the player. Such reach production includes so-called super reach production in which various characters appear and stories develop before the last row of scrolling stops.
On the other hand, in the non-reach effect, the design is stopped and displayed in a state where the same numbers are not aligned on a straight line extending horizontally or diagonally without giving an effect that gives the player a sense of expectation as described above. .

  As described above, the reach random number is used to determine whether to perform the reach effect or the non-reach effect in the symbol display unit 104. For the player, the reach effect appears with a predetermined probability. To give a reasonable expectation. In addition, if you win the jackpot, you will always have the reach described above, and finally the decorative symbols will be stopped and displayed with the same numbers aligned on a straight or horizontal line. At the time of losing, the decorative symbol is stopped and displayed in a state where the same numbers are not aligned on the straight line.

  As described above, when the first random number determination unit 303 determines each random number, the first special symbol variation control unit 302 relates to the special symbol stored in the special symbol variation display storage unit 405 based on the random number. By rewriting the information, information related to the special symbol is newly stored, and the control of variable symbol special display is started, and the first special symbol display control unit 301 displays the special symbol on the first special symbol display 84. Start displaying fluctuations. Specifically, a special symbol in a stationary state corresponding to the determination result of the jackpot random number and the symbol random number is finally displayed on the first special symbol display 84 as a lottery result.

  Even when a game ball enters the second start port 120, the same control as described above is performed by the second special symbol lottery means 320 and the second random number determination means 323. Then, the second special symbol variation control means 322 starts the special symbol variation display control based on the random number value, and the second special symbol display control means 321 displays the special symbol on the second special symbol display 86. Start displaying fluctuations.

When a game ball enters the first starting port 105 and is in a variable display based on the previous game ball, the random number acquired by the first special symbol lottery means 300 is: It is stored in the first special symbol hold storage means 401 of the RAM 201c. The first special symbol storage unit 401 is configured as shown in FIG.
That is, FIG. 6 (a) is a diagram showing an example of a storage area related to the order of holding. As is clear from this figure, the first special symbol holding storage means 401 detects that the game ball has detected the first start port. Random numbers (big hit random numbers, symbol random numbers, reach random numbers) acquired based on the detection by the unit 221 are stored in association with the order in which game balls are detected as reserved balls. 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. In this way, up to four reserved balls are reserved in the first special symbol storage unit 401.

  On the other hand, when a game ball enters the first starting port 105 in a state where the reserve ball is retained in all of the first storage area 401a to the fourth storage area 401d, 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 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.

  In addition, the held ball retained in the first special symbol hold storage unit 401 is monitored by the fluctuation display monitoring unit 350 and is always digested (processed) by the fluctuation display monitoring unit 350 from the first storage area 401a. When the reserved sphere stored in the first storage area 401a is digested, the reserved sphere stored in the second storage area 401b to the fourth storage area 401d is moved from the storage area to the previous one by the variable display monitoring unit 350. It is moved to the area. That is, when the reserved sphere retained in the first storage area 401a is digested, the retained sphere retained in the second storage area 401b moves to the first storage area 401a. Similarly, the reserved ball retained in the third storage area 401c moves to the second storage area 401b, and the retained ball retained in the fourth storage area 401d shifts to the third storage area 401c. Therefore, it becomes possible to accept the reserved ball in the fourth storage area 401d, that is, to reserve the reserved ball again.

  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 (a jackpot random number, a design random number, a reach random number) acquired based on the detection by the second start port detection unit 225 is stored as a holding ball in association with the order in which the gaming 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 reserved balls are retained in order from the fifth storage area 402a. That is, when a game ball enters the second start port 120 in a state where it is retained in the fifth storage area 402a, a reserved ball is retained in the sixth storage area 402b. In this way, up to four reserved balls are reserved in the second special symbol storage unit 402 (see FIG. 6B).

  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 is stored in the fifth storage area 402a by the variable display monitoring unit 350. When the reserved balls are digested, the reserved balls retained from the sixth storage area 402b to the eighth storage area 402d are also moved from the storage area to the previous area by the change display monitoring means 350. That is, when the reserved sphere retained in the fifth storage area 402a is digested, the retained sphere retained in the sixth storage area 402b moves to the fifth storage area 402a. Similarly, the reserved sphere retained in the seventh storage area 402c moves to the sixth storage area 402b, and the retained sphere retained in the eighth storage area 402d moves to the seventh storage area 402c. Accordingly, it becomes possible to accept the reserved ball in the eighth storage area 402d, that is, to reserve the reserved ball again.

  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. 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, the reserved balls are retained in one storage means in the order in which the game balls enter the start opening. At this time, even if a flag that associates which starting ball the game ball has entered is stored in association with the holding ball and the holding ball with the predetermined flag is preferentially processed, An effect similar to that of the gaming machine can be obtained.

Each of the eight storage areas from the first storage area 401a to the eighth storage area 402d has a jackpot random number storage area, a design random number storage area, and a reach random number storage area, as shown in FIG. 6C. have. The jackpot random number storage area is an area for storing a jackpot random number used for determining whether to start a jackpot game or a jackpot game. Further, the symbol random number storage area stores symbol random numbers used for determining the mode of the special symbol finally displayed in a stationary state on the first special symbol display 84 or the second special symbol display 86 in the case of a big hit. It is an area to do. 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. However, the extracted random number value is stored in any of the fifth storage area 402a to the eighth storage area 402d, and the number of reserved balls is displayed on the second special symbol hold indicator 88. When a plurality of reserved balls are reserved in both the special symbol storage means 401 and 402, the reserved balls are digested in the following order, for example.

As described above, when the reserved ball is retained in both the first special symbol reserve storage unit 401 and the second special symbol reserve storage unit 402, it is retained in the second special symbol reserve storage unit 402. The reserved ball is preferentially digested (processed).
For example, as shown in FIG. 7 (a), a holding ball is retained in the first storage area 401 a to the third storage area 401 c of the first special symbol holding storage means 401, and the fifth special symbol holding storage means 402 It is assumed that a 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.
In the present embodiment, the second starting port 120 is a starting port that is preferentially digested (hereinafter referred to as a priority starting port), and in this case, the reserved ball in the fifth storage area 402a is preferentially processed. Then, the retaining balls are digested in the order of the arrows shown in FIG.

  Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 7C, it is assumed that three reserved balls are reserved in the first special symbol storage unit 401 that performs non-priority processing. In this case, the three reserved balls retained in the first special symbol storage unit 401 are digested successively in the order indicated by the dotted lines in the figure. However, when the first reserved ball is digested, in other words, when the first variation display is performed, the reserved ball is reserved in the second special symbol hold storage means 402 to which priority processing is performed. Then (when the ball enters the second starting port 120), the reservation ball is interrupted, and the reservation ball is digested in the order indicated by the solid line in the figure.

  As is clear from this, in the case where a plurality of reserved balls are reserved in the first storage area 401a where non-priority processing is performed (priority processing is not performed) in both storage means 401 and 402, priority processing is performed. When the reserved ball is retained in the fifth storage area 402a where the interruption is performed, there is a high possibility that an interruption process is performed. On the other hand, when a game ball enters the second start port 120, which is the priority start port, and a plurality of holding balls are reserved, no interruption processing is performed, and the plurality of holding balls are always continuous. To be digested.

  As described above, the retained balls are sequentially digested. The CPU 201a controls the digestion of the retained balls, and the CPU 201a controls the digestion of the retained balls in the fluctuation display monitoring means of the ROM 201b. 350. The fluctuation display monitoring unit 350 monitors a determination processing area for determining a special symbol by determining a random value, and when the determination processing area becomes empty, that is, the special symbol that is being displayed in a variable display. When the variable display is completed, the random number value of the reserved sphere to be processed stored in the first storage area 401a or the fifth storage area 402a is shifted to the determination processing area. Thereafter, the above-described variation display is started based on the random number value shifted to the determination processing area.

  As will be described in detail later, when the variable display is performed for a predetermined time, the first special symbol display control means 301 and the second special symbol display control means 321 terminate the special symbol variable display, and the first special symbol display unit The special symbol is statically displayed as the determination result (game data lottery result) on the 84 or 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 by the effect objects 115 and 116 (the accessory part 254). Production is also performed. In order to make these effects more effective, the main control board 201 is provided with related effect determination means 332 for executing and controlling the related effects. Hereinafter, related effects will be described.

(Explanation of related effects)
When the game ball enters either the first start port 105 or the second start port 120, a jackpot determination is performed as described above. This jackpot determination is a lottery to determine whether or not the right to proceed with a game can be acquired in a special game state (high probability game state, short-time game state) that gives a player an advantageous game value over the normal game state. It is. The determination result is displayed on the first special symbol display 84 or the second special symbol display 86. In these indicators 84 and 86, the LED is turned on or blinked to make it as if it is currently being determined. Such special symbol variation display is performed for a predetermined time.

  This special symbol variation display is performed once per entry to the start openings 105 and 120 in the state where there is no reservation ball, or once per one retention ball, but this one special symbol variation display. Various effects are performed on the symbol display unit 104, the speaker 277, the lamp 112, and the effect actors 115 and 116. A regular production (a production that is not a related production) including a reach production is performed once for a variable display of a special symbol, and the content of this production is a story that is completed within the scope of the one production. is there.

  On the other hand, a related effect is one story that is completed over a variable display of a plurality of special symbols, or a plurality of effect contents are associated with each other. In other words, a plurality of performances are set to contents related in some way. FIG. 8 shows an example of the related effects using the effect actors 115 and 116 and the symbol display unit 104.

  For example, at the time of the first variation display (when the first reserved memory is consumed), as shown in FIG. By performing the operation control of moving along the longitudinal direction of the director character 116, an effect such that the blade is removed from the sheath is performed. Further, at this time, an LED (indicated by a dotted line in the figure) built in the blade portion is brought into a light emitting state, so that the player looks as if the blade is shining. However, in the decorative symbol of the symbol display unit 104, after the three numbers arranged in a row scroll for a predetermined time, the symbol display unit 104 finally stops in a state where three identical symbols (symbols) are not aligned, It is informed that the lottery result (variation) was lost.

  At the time of the second fluctuation display (when the second reserved memory is consumed), as shown in FIG. By performing the operation control of moving along the longitudinal direction of the accessory 116, an effect that the blade is removed from the sheath is performed. At this time, the LED (indicated by a dotted line in the figure) built in the blade portion is turned on to make the player feel as if the blade is shining. However, even in the second variation display, after the three numbers arranged in a row scroll for a predetermined time in the decorative symbol of the symbol display unit 104, finally the same three numbers (symbols) are not aligned. The player stops in the state and is notified to the player that the lottery result (change) is lost.

  Then, at the time of the third variation display (when the third reserved memory is consumed), as shown in FIG. By performing the operation control of moving along the longitudinal direction of the directors 115 and 116, an effect that the blade is removed from the sheath is performed. Further, at this time, the above-described LED (details are not shown) is set in a light-emitting state to make the player appear as if both blades are shining. However, even in the third variation display, after the three numbers arranged in a row scroll for a predetermined time in the decorative symbol of the symbol display unit 104, finally three identical numbers (symbols) are not aligned. The player stops in the state and is notified to the player that the lottery result (change) is lost.

  At the time of the fourth fluctuation display (when the fourth reserved memory is consumed), as shown in FIG. 8 (d), in addition to the operation control of the directors 115 and 116, the upper right of the game board 101 is displayed. A plurality of LEDs (not shown) are set in a light emitting state from the side toward the lower left, and a plurality of LEDs (not shown) are also set in a light emitting state from the upper left to the lower right of the game board 101. This gives the player the impression that the game board 101 is cut from the left and right with a sword. At the time of the fourth variation display, after the three numbers arranged in a row scroll for a predetermined time in the decorative symbol of the symbol display unit 104, finally three identical numbers (symbols) are arranged. And the player is informed that the lottery result (variation) is a big hit.

As described above, in the related effect, a continuous effect (in this example, continuous effects by the effect actors 115 and 116) is performed over a plurality of variable displays. Therefore, whenever the player sees the effect continuously performed, in other words, as the related effect progresses, the player has a great expectation that he / she will win a big hit in the next variation display.
Here, the related effects using the effect actors 115 and 116 and the symbol display unit 104 have been described. However, the related effect may be performed by any one of the effect actor, the symbol display unit, the speaker, and the lamp. They may be used in combination as appropriate.

  As described above, in order to perform the related effects made over a plurality of variation displays, the related effect determination unit 332 stores a related effect flag in the special symbol variation display storage unit of the main control board 201 in the present embodiment. The related effect is set before the variable display starts. Finally, the related effect is controlled based on the related effect flag. Hereinafter, control of related effects will be described.

(Reserved ball storage process)
First, as shown in FIG. 9, the first start port detecting unit 221 or the second start port detecting unit 225 detects that a game ball has entered the first start port 105 or the second start port 120.

(Step S101), (Step S102),
The first special symbol lottery means 300 or the second special symbol lottery means 320 acquires a random number value by lottery according to the start port (first start port 105 or second start port 120) where the entry is detected. Next, the fluctuation display monitoring means 350 of the main control board 201 detects whether or not the special symbol is being variably displayed by monitoring the special symbol fluctuation display storage means 405, for example.

(Step S103)
If it is determined in step S102 that the variable display is being performed, the random number value is stored in the fourth storage area 401d of the first special symbol hold storage unit 401 or the eighth storage area 402d of the second special symbol hold storage unit 402. It is detected whether it is done. 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 S103 that there are four reserved balls, the special symbol variation display, that is, the jackpot determination is not performed depending on the game ball entering, so the control is terminated as it is.

(Step S104)
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S103 that the number of reserved balls is less than 4, that is, it is determined that the reserved balls can be reserved, the reserved balls (random values) are determined according to the start port into which the game balls are inserted. The 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. The reserved ball is in a standby state until the special symbol variation display ends, that is, after the special symbol variation display storage unit 405 is emptied, and is shifted to a determination processing area by a variation display monitoring unit 350 described later.

(Step 105)
In addition, in the above-described step S102, when the special symbol variation display is not made, the game state monitoring means 352 of the main control board 201 monitors the game state storage means 404, for example, so that the currently played game It is detected whether or not is a big hit game or a small hit game. When the game currently being played is not a big hit game or a small hit game, the variable display start process of FIG. 10 is performed. In other words, when a game ball enters any of the start ports in a state where a game other than the special symbol variation display and the game is not played, that is, the special symbol variation display can be started, Since the special symbol related display is immediately displayed, no storage ball is stored in the storage means 401, 402. On the other hand, if the currently played game is a big hit game or a small hit game, the process proceeds to step S3, and a hold process similar to the above is executed.

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

(Step S201)
The fluctuation display monitoring means 350 monitors the special symbol fluctuation display storage means 405. When the special symbol fluctuation display is completed and the special symbol fluctuation display storage means 405 becomes empty, it is first stored in the game state storage means 404. It is determined whether the played gaming state is a high probability gaming state. However, here, there is no distinction between the high probability gaming state after the end of the long hit game and the high probability gaming state after the end of the short hit game.

(Step S202)
If it is determined in step S201 that the gaming state is not the high probability gaming state (the low probability gaming state), a random number value (holding ball) is stored in the fifth storage area 402a, that is, the second special It is determined whether or not the number of held balls in the symbol holding storage unit 402 is 1 or more.

(Step S203)
In step S202, if the reserved ball is stored in the fifth storage area 402a, that is, if the reserved ball is not 0 (YES in step S202), the fluctuation display monitoring unit 350 is stored in the fifth storage area 402a. The random number value is shifted to the determination processing area, and the random number value stored in the sixth storage area 402b to the eighth storage area 402d is shifted to the previous storage area. In addition, when the random number value 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 random number value stored in the fifth storage area 402a Only the process of storing in the determination processing area is performed.

(Step S204)
The case where the process reaches step S204 through the processes of steps S201 and S202 is, for example, a low-probability gaming state and a case where a reserved ball is reserved in the fifth storage area 402a. Therefore, in this case, the normal game control unit 341 includes a signal related to the information indicating that it is not in the special gaming state transmitted by the variation display monitoring unit 350 and information indicating that the random number value is stored in the fifth storage area. In response to the signal, the second special symbol normal time determination table (second normal time determination table in FIG. 10) is selected, and the variation determination means 351 is shifted to the determination processing region with reference to the table. The random number is judged.

(Step S205)
In the random number value determination process in step S205, a big hit random number is first determined. Here, if it is determined that the game is a jackpot, the variation determination unit 351, for example, turns on the jackpot flag, determines the symbol random number, and draws the jackpot type. Specifically, with reference to the determination table selected in step S204 and the symbol random numbers acquired by the special symbol lottery means 300 and 320, the type of jackpot, specifically, long hit or short hit Or whether the probability of winning a lottery is high or low, and whether there is a short time. Further, the presence / absence of the reach effect is determined with reference to the determination table and the reach random number regardless of the result of the jackpot determination. These determination results are rewritten and stored in the game state storage unit 404 and the special symbol variation display storage unit 405 by the variation determination unit 351.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the special symbol variation display storage unit 405 stores the determination result storage area that stores information (hereinafter referred to as determination result information) related to a determination result related to the variation display start processing (determination processing), for example. In addition to 405a, it has first determination result storage area 405b to fourth determination result storage area 405e for storing determination result information of the subsequent four determination processes (see FIG. 11A). The first determination result storage area 405b to the fourth determination result storage area 405e are associated with the order in which the determination process is performed after the variation display (the determination process). For example, the determination process performed after the determination process is performed. The determination result information is stored in the first determination result storage area 405b, and the determination result information of the determination process performed next is stored in the second determination result storage area 405c.

  Each of the determination result storage areas 405a to 405e stores a jackpot determination storage area in which the result of the jackpot determination is stored, a jackpot type determination storage area in which the result of the jackpot type determination is stored, and a result of the reach determination. It consists of a reach determination storage area and a related effect flag storage area for storing a related effect flag described later (see FIG. 11B). In the determination storage area constituting each of these determination result storage areas, for example, the determination results can be symbolized and stored as random numbers such as jackpot random numbers.

  For example, as a jackpot determination result, the jackpot is symbolized as “A”, the jackpot as “B”, and the loss as “C”. Further, as the jackpot type determination result, “a” is a long per unit with a high probability, “b” is a per unit with a short time, “c” is a per unit with a high probability, and a “d” is a per unit with a normal time. High probability short / short short hits are symbolized as “e”, and normal short / short short hits are symbolized as “f”. The reach determination result is symbolized as “X” for reach and “Y” for no reach. In S205 described above, the results of the jackpot determination, jackpot type determination, and reach determination are stored in the determination result storage area 405a.

  The special symbol variation display storage means 405 includes five determination result storage areas 405a to 405e, as will be described later, the variation display of a specific special symbol related to the determination process determined to be a small hit or short hit. This is for associating a variable display performed later. By associating the variable display performed after the variable display of a specific special symbol set in advance, it is possible to reliably perform a related effect and achieve a high effect.

(Step S206)
The related effect determination unit 332 monitors the determination result storage area 405a of the special symbol variation display storage unit 405. For example, when the determination result information is stored in the determination result storage area 405a, the determination result information includes the above-described determination result information. In the jackpot determination result, the information that the jackpot is small (hereinafter referred to as the jackpot information), or the type of jackpot is “c” with a short time with a high probability time, “d” with a short time with a short time, a short time without a short time with a high probability It is determined whether or not the information “h” for winning or “f” for short time without normal time (hereinafter referred to as short winning information) is included.

(Step S207)
When the determination result includes the small hit information or the short hit information (YES in step S206), the related effect determination means 332 includes the first determination result storage area 405b to the fourth determination result in the special symbol variation display storage means 405. The related effect flag is stored in the related effect flag storage area of the storage area 405e. Therefore, the related effect flag is always included in the determination result information of the four determination processes executed continuously after the special symbol variation display related to the determination process is performed. Therefore, a related effect is performed in the special symbol variation display related to the four determination processes.

  That is, when the variation display is completed, the information stored in the determination result storage area 405a and the first determination result storage area 405b to the fourth determination result storage area 405e of the special symbol variation display storage unit 405 is the previous area. Slide to. Therefore, during the variation display of the specific special symbol corresponding to the determination result of the small hit or short hit, the related effect flag is not stored in the determination result storage area 405a, but four times after the end of the variation display. The related effect flag is stored in the determination result storage area 405a corresponding to the determination process.

  For example, the information stored in the first determination result storage area 405b slides to the determination result storage area 405a after the change display. Specifically, the related effect flag stored in the related effect flag storage area of the first determination result storage area 405b is slid to the related effect flag storage area of the determination result storage area 405a in response to the change display. Accordingly, by storing the newly determined determination processing information in the determination storage area 405a in which the related effect flag is stored, the special special symbol related to the determination result of the small hit or short hit is stored. The determination result information of the four determination processes performed after the variable display always includes a related effect flag.

  If the determination result information does not include the small hit information and the short hit information (NO in step S206), the related effect determination unit 332 proceeds to step S208 without performing the storage processing of the related effect flag.

(Step S208), (Step S209), (Step S210)
The effect random number lottery means 330 acquires an effect random number by lottery based on the determination result information and stores it in a predetermined effect processing area. Next, the effect determining means 331 refers to the effect table in which the effect configuration (required time, content, etc.) is set based on the effect random number, and determines an effect execution command having information related to the effect configuration. The determined effect execution command is transmitted by the effect execution command transmission means 333 to the effect storage means 510 of the sub control board 202.

  In step S209, an effect table to be referred to is selected based on the presence / absence of the related effect flag. The effect table is stored in the ROM 201b, and includes a related effect table that is referred to when the related effect flag is included in the determination result information, and a general table that is referred to when the related effect flag is not included. (See FIG. 12).

  In the present embodiment, the related effect flag is associated with the order of the variable display (processing), and the determination result information with each related effect flag associated with the processing order is included in the flag. An effect table corresponding to the associated order is referred to (see FIG. 12). For example, the related effect flag initially stored in the first determination result storage area 405b is associated with the variation display order “1”, and the related effect flag stored in the second determination result storage area 405c is variablely displayed. The related effect flag stored in the third determination result storage area 405d is associated with the variable display order "3" and stored in the fourth determination result storage area 405e. The effect flag is associated with the variable display order “4”. Therefore, the first related effect table to the fourth related effect table are referred to based on the determination result information including the related effect flag stored in the first determination result storage area 405b to the fourth determination result storage area 405e.

  Here, in FIG. 12, the required time of the related effects set in the first related effect table to the third related effect table is 8 seconds, and the required time of the related effects set in the fourth related effect table is 30 seconds. That is, the variation display of the special symbol related to the first related effect to the variation display related to the third related effect is performed for 8 seconds, and the variable display related to the fourth related effect is performed for 30 seconds.

  In this way, by fixing the time required for each related effect, it is possible to reliably perform a high-quality related effect having continuity with respect to the contents. In other words, since a plurality of (four in this embodiment) special symbol variable display times that are performed after the specific special symbol variable display are preset (fixed), a series of processes executed in response to them. It is possible to store an effect execution command of the contents of the related effects in the table. This is because, in general, the time required for production varies depending on the number of reserved balls stored in the special symbol storage means 401 and 402 at the time when the special symbol variation display is executed. is there.

  For example, when four reserved balls are reserved, each variable display time (required time for production) is set to, for example, 4 seconds in order to digest the reserved balls, and three reserved balls are reserved. In this case, it is assumed that each of the variable display times is set to 6 seconds, and when the two holding balls are reserved, the variable display time is set to 8 seconds. Therefore, if the first lottery result is lost, the first fluctuation display is performed for 4 seconds. At this point in time, since three holding balls are reserved, the second variation display is performed for 6 seconds, but if the second lottery result is lost, for example, a variation display for 30 seconds is executed. Is done. At this time, since two reserved balls are reserved, if the result of the third lottery is lost, the variable display is scheduled to be performed for 8 seconds. However, for example, if a new holding ball is reserved during the second fluctuation display, the number of the holding balls becomes three, so the fluctuation display is actually performed for 6 seconds. As described above, generally, the variable display time varies depending on the number of holding balls. Therefore, there is a high possibility that the content of the related performance is interrupted.

  In addition, the related performance table is divided according to whether the result of the jackpot determination is a jackpot or other than the jackpot (small hit, loss). Specifically, the related effect table that is referred to when the related effect flag and the jackpot “A” are included in the determination result information and when the related effect flag and the jackpot “B” or the loss “C” are included. Is different. Specifically, in the present embodiment, the time required for the related effects is the same in any case, but the contents of the related effects include the case where the related effect flag and the jackpot “A” are included, It differs depending on whether the small hit “B” or the loss “C” is included.

  Therefore, for example, even if a jackpot is drawn in the middle of a related performance, a related performance with a high degree of completeness is performed by completing the content of the related performance composed of a series of stories without interruption in the middle. be able to. Specifically, when one story is set to be completed by four related effects, even if the result of the jackpot determination corresponding to the third related effect is a jackpot, the third variation display By making the content of the production of the content of the third and fourth related effects related to the related effect in the case of not being a big hit, it is possible to end the related effect without a sense of incongruity with a natural story.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when the result of the lottery by the variation determining means 351 is a specific special symbol that triggers the related performance, that is, when the result of the jackpot determination is a small jackpot, or the jackpot When the result of the type determination is a short hit, the fluctuation display time of the specific special symbol is set to 90 seconds, for example. Therefore, it is possible to reserve a predetermined number (for example, four) of reserved balls during the variation display of a specific special symbol.

  The variable display time of the specific special symbol is not limited to 90 seconds, but the variable display hold time that can reserve a plurality of reserved balls that can execute related effects is set in the variable display of the specific special symbol. Therefore, it is possible to reliably retain the reserved ball and perform a high quality related performance. Here, the variable display hold time is provided for the special symbol variable display, but the variable display hold time may be provided for a combination of the special symbol variable display and the big hit game or the small hit game. Further, the variable display hold time may be provided for the big hit game or the small hit game. This is because, when the lottery result is a small hit or big win (long hit / short win), after the change display, the small special or big win game is executed, which cannot start the change display of the next special symbol. Yes (see FIG. 16).

  In addition, the content of the production corresponding to the display of fluctuation of a specific special symbol, or the content of the production during a small hit game or a big hit game (for example, a short hit game), in other words, a special symbol of variable display is started. It is desirable that the content of the production during the variable display hold time during the impossible period is content that prompts the user to hold. This is because the reserved ball is more easily retained by this effect. Along with this, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation that “some opportunity has arrived” and at the same time, increase the operating rate of the gaming machine.

  Specifically, for example, a message “Recommend to reserve the reserved ball” is embodied as the content of the production. In detail, for example, a character “Let's hold at once” is displayed on a portion of the liquid crystal display constituting the symbol display unit 104 excluding the symbol display unit 104, or “Let's hold at once” from the speaker 277. Prompt the player to place a hold by outputting audio.

(Step S211)
On the other hand, when it is determined that the low-probability gaming state is determined in step S201, and the reserved ball is not stored in the fifth storage area 402a in step S202, that is, the reserved ball of the second special symbol reserved storage unit 402 is 0. In this case, it is determined whether or not the reserved ball is reserved in the first storage area 401a. Here, if it is determined that no holding ball is stored in the first storage area 401a, that is, if it is determined that there is no holding ball in any of the storage areas, the process is terminated.

(Step S212)
If it is determined in step S211 that the reserved ball is retained in the first storage area 401a, the same shift process as in step S203 is performed.

(Step S213)
Then, the case where the processing in the above-described step S201 → step S202 → step S211 → step S212 is a low-probability gaming state, and the reserved ball is reserved only in the first special symbol storage unit 401. is there. Therefore, in this case, the first special symbol normal time determination table (first normal time determination table in FIG. 10) is selected, and thereafter, the same processing as in steps S205 to S210 is performed.

(Step S214)
Furthermore, when it is determined in step S201 that the game state is a high probability gaming state, it is determined in step S214 whether or not a reserved ball is reserved in the fifth storage area 402a.

(Step S215)
In step S214, when it is determined that the reserved ball is reserved in the fifth storage area 402a, that is, in a high probability gaming state, the reserved ball is reserved in the second special symbol storage unit 402. If YES, the shift process is performed as in step S203.

(Step S216)
As described above, when the game is in a high-probability gaming state and the reserved ball is reserved in the second special symbol reservation storage unit 402, the second special symbol high-probability time determination table (FIG. 10). The second high probability determination table) is selected. Thereafter, the same processing as in steps S205 to S210 is performed.

(Step S217)
On the other hand, when it is determined in the above step S201 that the game state is a high-probability gaming state, and no holding ball is stored in the fifth storage area 402a in step S214, that is, the holding ball in the second special symbol holding storage unit 402 is not stored. In the case of 0, it is determined whether or not the reserved ball is reserved in the first storage area 401a. Here, if it is determined that no holding ball is stored in the first storage area 401a, that is, if it is determined that there is no holding ball in any of the storage areas, the process is terminated.

(Step S218)
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S217 that the reserved ball is retained in the first storage area 401a, the same shift process as in step S203 is performed.

(Step S219)
Then, the case where the above-described processing from step S201 → step S214 → step S217 → step S218 is performed is a high-probability gaming state where the reserved ball is reserved only in the first special symbol storage unit 401. is there. Therefore, in this case, the first special symbol high-probability time determination table (first high-probability determination table in FIG. 10) is selected, and thereafter, the same processing as in steps S205 to S210 is performed.

  As described above, when an effect execution command is transmitted to the effect storage means of the sub-control board 202, control of effects is started in the sub-control board 202. This production control will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S301), (Step S302)
When the sub control board 202 receives the effect execution command, the effect execution command is stored in the effect storage means of the RAM 202c. This production execution command stores the production configuration (required time, contents, etc.). The effect control means 502 controls the effect by the symbol display unit 104, the speaker 277, the lamp 112, and the accessory part 254 in accordance with the configuration of these effects.

  As described above, when a game ball enters the first start port 105 or the second start port 120, a big win lottery is performed and a special symbol variation display process is performed. In addition to the symbol variation processing, normal symbol variation processing is also performed. In the present embodiment, the normal symbol variation process is performed in association with the special symbol variation process. The normal symbol variation process will be described below with reference to FIG.

(Step S401)
As shown in the figure, 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 S402)
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, a variation start process of a diagram to be described later is immediately performed based on the passage of the game ball.

(Step S403)
On the other hand, if the normal symbol is changing when the random number value is acquired, it is determined in step S403 whether or not the normal symbol hold is less than the upper limit reserved number 4, that is, the normal symbol change display. It is determined whether or not the right can be reserved.

(Step S404)
If it is determined in step S403 that the right to display the fluctuation of the normal symbol can be reserved, the random number value acquired in step S401 is stored in the normal symbol hold storage unit 403. Further, in the above-described step S403, when the hold is the upper limit reserved number 4, the right to display the variation of the normal symbol is not reserved, so the control based on the passing of the game ball to the winning gate 106 is finished. .

  Next, in the state where there is no hold in the normal symbol hold storage unit 403, the right to display the change 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 for the right of variable display will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S501)
When performing the variable display start processing, first, the normal symbol variation control means 362 is whether the gaming state stored in the gaming state storage means 404 is a short-time gaming state (including a high-probability gaming state with a short time), It is determined whether the game state is other.

(Step S502) (Step S503)
If it is determined in step S501 that the game state (normal game state, time-variable probability change game state) other than the short-time game state (including the time-varying probability variable game state) is determined (NO in step S501), the normal symbol A normal hourly hit 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 reserved ball retained in the normal symbol hold storage unit 403, the random number value stored in the normal symbol hold storage unit 403 is read to 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 with no hold, the acquired random number value is directly written in the predetermined processing area.

(Step S509)
If the result of the hit determination in step S503 is a loss, the change display start process is terminated after the change display process is performed, and the display is changed based on the standby state or the next hold. Processing will be performed. The loss variation display processing here is processing in which normal symbol variation display is performed for a preset time (for example, 10 seconds).
(Step S504)
On the other hand, if it is determined to be a win in step S503, the normal variation display process is performed. The normal variation display processing here is processing in which normal symbol variation display is performed for a preset time (for example, 10 seconds).

  The normal symbol variation display is performed by the normal symbol display control means 361. The normal symbol display control means 361 causes the normal symbol display 82 to light up or blink the LED or the like for 10 seconds, and then statically display a predetermined symbol for normal use.

(Step S505)
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 S506) (Step S507)
If it is determined in step S501 that the time-short gaming state (including a high-probability gaming state with time reduction) is determined (YES in step S501), 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 S509)
If the result of the hit determination in step S506 is a loss, the change display process is terminated after the change display process is performed, and the display process is changed based on the standby state or the next hold. Will do. The loss variation display processing here is processing in which normal symbol variation display is performed for a preset time (for example, 1.5 seconds).

(Step S508)
On the other hand, if it is determined to be a win in step S506, the time-varying display process is performed in step S508. The short time variation display processing here is processing in which normal symbol variation display is performed for a preset time (for example, 1.5 seconds).

  The normal symbol variation display is also performed by the normal symbol display control means 361. That is, when the small hit information or the accuracy information is stored in the determination result storage area, the normal symbol display control unit 361 lights or blinks the LED or the like in the normal symbol display 82 for 1.5 seconds. Then, a predetermined winning symbol is stopped and displayed.

(Step S506)
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 lapse of a predetermined time, 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 of 5.0 seconds, for example, four times.

  In this way, a specific special symbol corresponding to a lottery result of specific game data has already been displayed, or when it will be displayed, a game ball is inserted into the second start port 120, which is the start port. By performing the normal variation display processing or the short time variation display processing of the normal symbol that makes it easy to make a ball, the reserved ball is reliably retained, so that the related effect can be surely performed.

  For example, it is assumed that a game ball easily passes through the winning gate 106, and the right to display the variation of the normal symbol is always reserved up to the upper limit reserved number. In this case, if the normal symbol fluctuation display time is 10 seconds, the normal symbol lottery is performed 6 times per minute, but if the normal symbol fluctuation display time is 1 second, the normal symbol lottery per minute. Is performed 60 times. As is clear from this, the shorter the fluctuation display time of the normal symbol, the more the number of lotteries per unit time increases. As a result, the second start port 120 can be maintained while keeping the winning probability constant. The number of times it is released increases. That is, the reserved ball is reliably retained.

Therefore, if the above-described control is performed while a variable display of a specific special symbol corresponding to a small hit or short hit is being performed, it is possible to reliably reserve a holding ball for performing a related effect. .
Specifically, in the present embodiment, the special symbol variation display related to the small hit or short hit is performed for 90 seconds. If the reserved ball is not reserved during this time, the related effects described above cannot be performed reliably. Therefore, by forcibly providing many opportunities for the open state of the second start port 120 by the hit determination, it is easy to reserve the reserved ball, and the related effects are surely performed. The variation display time of the specific special symbol or the production time based on the specific production time data of the production execution command corresponding to the specific special symbol can be shortened by making it easier to enter the second start port 120. As a result, the operating rate of the gaming machine can be improved.

  In the above embodiment, the main control board 201 and the sub-control board 202 share the role, but it is only necessary to appropriately determine which board each unit is provided on. In particular, in the above embodiment, the effect determining means 331 determines the effect execution command on the main control board 201 and transmits it to the sub control board 202. For example, the effect execution command is determined on the sub control board 202. It doesn't matter.

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 an example of the determination table which determines the random number value at the time of entering a starting port, and this random number value. It is a conceptual diagram of the 1st special symbol reservation storage means and the 2nd special symbol reservation storage means of this invention. It is a figure explaining the digestion order of holding | maintenance. It is a figure which shows an example of a related effect. It is a flowchart which shows the control at the time of retaining a holding ball in the 1st special symbol reservation storage means and the 2nd special symbol reservation storage means. It is a flowchart which shows the start process of the change display of the special symbol in a main control board. It is a conceptual diagram of a special symbol variation display storage means. It is an example of the related effect table which determines the structure of the related effect in the case of jackpot determination and cases other than jackpot determination. It is a flowchart which shows the effect process in a sub control board. It is a flowchart which shows the control at the time of memorize | storing hold | maintenance 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 a time chart which shows the period when the change display of a special symbol cannot be started, and the period when the related effect is performed.

Explanation of symbols

82 Normal symbol indicators 84 and 86 constituting the normal symbol variation display means of the present invention Special symbol indicator 105 constituting the special symbol display means of the present invention 105 First starting port 106 Winning gate 120 Second starting port 200 Control unit 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 Effect random number acquisition means 331 Effect determination means 332 Related effect determination means 333 Effect execution command transmission means 340 Short hit game control means 341 Short hit game control means 342 High probability game control means 343 Time-short game control means 344 Normal game control means 345 Small hit game control means 350 Fluctuation display monitor Step 351 Variation determination means 352 Game state monitoring means 360 Normal symbol lottery means 361 Normal symbol display control means 362 Normal symbol fluctuation control means 363 Normal symbol lottery result determination means 401 First special symbol hold storage means 402 Second special symbol hold memory Means 403 Normal symbol holding storage means

Claims (2)

Special symbol display means for variably displaying the special symbol;
A start opening for generating a right to start the change display of the special symbol by the special symbol display means when the game ball enters;
Control means for controlling the progress of the game,
The control means includes
Special symbol lottery means for obtaining game data based on the right to start the variable symbol display of the special symbol related to the ball entering the start opening of the game ball;
A special symbol that reserves the right to start the variation display of the special symbol triggered by the entry of the game ball when a game ball enters the start port during a period in which the variation display of the special symbol cannot be started Holding storage means;
The variation determination means for determining a special symbol to be displayed on the special symbol display means based on the game data acquired by the special symbol lottery means;
Effect determination means for determining the configuration of the effect corresponding to the game data;
An effect control means for effect-controlling related effects over a variable display of a plurality of special symbols based on an effect execution command indicating a result determined by the effect determining means,
The special symbol variable display that can execute the related effect is started during the period in which the special symbol variable display that occurs immediately after the start of the special symbol variable display related to the specific special symbol that is set in advance cannot be started. A gaming machine characterized in that a variable display hold time is provided in which a plurality of rights can be reserved in the special symbol hold storage means. A grand prize opening and closing device having a big prize opening is provided,
The control means includes a first special game in which a round game that allows the game ball to enter the grand prize port is opened a plurality of times, and a special prize mouth in all round games. Controlling a second special game whose total opening time is set shorter than the first special game;
2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the second special game is controlled after the display of the variation of the specific special symbol is finished until the related effect is executed.

Images