JP2010194363A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To sufficiently increase excitement and enjoyment of a game, given to a player, by providing highly varied expectations for the occurrence of a special game state. <P>SOLUTION: A Pachinko game machine 1 has a symbol display device 25 for displaying at least one of symbol trains 26-28 each comprising symbols of multiple kinds and a controller 35 which drives and controls the symbol display device 25 according to changes in game situations. When the game situation satisfies the first requirements, the controller 35 makes the symbol display device 25 variably display the symbols in the respective symbol trains 26-28. The controller 35 generates the jackpot game state advantageous for the players in response to the stoppage of the varying of the symbols in the symbol trains 26-28 with a special symbol. When a ready-for-win state is presented before the generation of the jackpot game state while the game situation satisfies the second requirements, the controller 35 replaces at least some symbols with other ones in the middle symbol train 27 and then, gets the middle symbol train re-varied. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to gaming machines such as pachinko machines, alepatches, arrangement balls, throttle machines, and the like, and more specifically, based on the fact that a symbol row variably displayed on a symbol display is stopped at a predetermined special symbol. The present invention relates to a gaming machine that generates a special gaming state that is advantageous to the above.

  Conventionally, when the game ball passes through the start winning area provided on the game board, the variation of the left, middle and right symbol rows displayed on the symbol display is started, and these variations are changed after a predetermined time. Stops in the order of the left symbol row, right symbol row, middle symbol row, and if the combination of symbols is a combination of predetermined jackpot symbols, a jackpot gaming state advantageous to the player is generated based on that. Pachinko machines that are designed to be used are widely used. In this type of pachinko machine, the reach gaming state is entered before the symbol combination of each symbol row becomes a jackpot symbol combination. In the reach game state, a combination of symbols in both the left and right symbol rows excluding the middle symbol row constitutes a part of the jackpot symbol combination. Then, if the symbols in the middle symbol sequence stopped after the elapse of a predetermined time are the same as the symbols in the reach game state, a combination of jackpot symbols is established.

  However, in the above-described conventional pachinko machine, the types and arrangements of a plurality of symbols constituting each symbol row are predetermined for each symbol row. Therefore, after the left symbol row stops, the right symbol row and the middle symbol row consisting of the same combination of symbols always keep changing, and after the right symbol row stops, the middle symbol row keeps changing, and the change It was scarce. For this reason, the player expects to reach a reach gaming state while watching the right symbol row that continues to fluctuate after the left symbol row stops changing, or sees the middle symbol row that continues to fluctuate after entering the reach gaming state. However, while expecting the occurrence of a big hit gaming state, the sense of expectation for the occurrence was always the same. In this respect, the conventional pachinko machine has room for improvement.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and has a variety of expectations for occurrence of a special gaming state such as a big hit gaming state, and sufficiently enhances the gaming interests given to the player. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine that can be used.

  According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a symbol display for displaying at least one symbol string composed of a plurality of types of symbols, a gaming situation detecting means for detecting a gaming situation that changes in accordance with a player's operation, and the gaming situation. When the game situation by the detection means satisfies the first condition, the display control means for controlling the symbol display to variably display the symbols in the symbol row, and the symbol row by the display control means is a special symbol predetermined. In a gaming machine comprising a special gaming state generating means for generating a special gaming state advantageous to a player based on being stopped, the gaming status is detected before the occurrence of the special gaming state by the special gaming state generating means When the game situation by the means satisfies the second condition, there is provided a symbol changing means for changing at least a part of the symbols in the symbol row by the display control means to another symbol. The sixth invention described in claim 6 is provided with display prohibiting means instead of the symbol changing means of the first invention, and the seventh invention described in claim 7 is replaced with the symbol changing means. A symbol adding means is provided. The display prohibiting means displays at least a part of the symbols in the symbol sequence by the display control means if the gaming status by the gaming status detecting means satisfies the second condition before the special gaming status is generated by the special gaming status generating means. It is forbidden. The symbol adding means adds another symbol to the symbol row by the display control means when the gaming status by the gaming status detecting means satisfies the second condition before the special gaming state is generated by the special gaming status generating means.

  In any of the first, sixth and seventh inventions, the gaming situation detecting means detects a gaming situation that changes according to the player's operation. When the detected gaming situation satisfies the first condition, the symbol display device is controlled by the display control means, and the symbols in the symbol row are variably displayed. Based on this symbol sequence being stopped at a predetermined special symbol, a special game state advantageous to the player is generated by the special game state generating means.

  In the first invention, when the gaming situation satisfies the second condition before the occurrence of the special gaming state, at least a part of the symbols displayed on the symbol display is changed by the symbol changing means. Changed to That is, when the second condition is satisfied, a symbol different from the normal time is variably displayed on the symbol display. In the sixth aspect of the invention, at least a part of the symbols in the symbol row that is variably displayed on the symbol display is not displayed by the display prohibiting means. On the symbol display, a symbol string consisting of a smaller number of symbols than usual is variably displayed. Furthermore, in the seventh invention, another symbol is added to the symbol row that is variably displayed on the symbol display. On the symbol display, a symbol string composed of a larger number of symbols than usual is variably displayed.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in addition to the configuration of the first aspect, the symbol sequence includes a special game determination symbol sequence for determining a special game state advantageous to the player, and the symbol change means generates the special game state. At least a part of the symbols of the special game fixed symbol sequence that has fluctuated before the occurrence of the special game state by the means is changed to another symbol.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, if the game situation satisfies the second condition before the occurrence of the special game state, the special game state that is fluctuating before the occurrence of the special game state and that is advantageous to the player is determined. At least a part of the symbols of the special game fixed symbol row is changed to another symbol by the symbol changing means.

  In the third invention, in addition to the configuration of the second invention, the symbol changing means changes at least a part of a symbol different from the special symbol in the special game fixed symbol sequence to a special symbol.

  According to the third invention, at least a part of a symbol different from the special symbol in the special game fixed symbol sequence is changed to the special symbol. For this reason, on the symbol display, the special game fixed symbol sequence in which the ratio of the special symbol is higher than that in the normal state is variably displayed.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the special game fixed symbol sequence according to the third aspect of the invention comprises at least a plurality of types of winning symbols that are candidates for special symbols, and the symbol changing means changes the symbols of these winning symbols. It is intended for.

  According to the fourth aspect of the invention, in the special game fixed symbol sequence, at least a part of the symbols different from the special symbols in the winning symbol group having the possibility of becoming the special symbols is changed to the special symbols. For this reason, on the symbol display, the special game fixed symbol sequence in which the ratio of the special symbol is higher than that in the normal state is variably displayed.

  In the fifth invention, in addition to the configuration of the first invention, the symbol sequence includes a special game determination symbol sequence for determining a special game state advantageous to the player, and a reach game state that occurs prior to the special game state. A reach game determination symbol sequence for determining the game, and the symbol change means is configured to change at least a part of the symbols of the reach game determination symbol sequence that has fluctuated before the occurrence of the reach game state by the special game state generation unit. The design is changed.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, if the game situation satisfies the second condition before the occurrence of the special game state, the reach game fixed symbol sequence that fluctuates before the occurrence of the reach game state prior to the special game state. At least a part of the symbols is changed to another symbols by the symbol changing means.

  As described above, in the first invention, when the gaming situation satisfies the second condition before the occurrence of the special gaming state, a symbol row having a symbol different from the normal time is variably displayed on the symbol display. Further, in the sixth invention, a symbol string composed of symbols less than normal is variably displayed, and in the seventh invention, a symbol string composed of symbols more than normal is variably displayed. For this reason, if a symbol row in which the percentage of the special symbol is higher than normal is displayed on the symbol display due to these changes, the special gaming state may be more likely to occur for the player than usual. Can be felt. On the other hand, if a symbol row in which the percentage of special symbols is lower than normal is displayed on the symbol display, special gaming status may be less likely to occur for the player than during normal times. It becomes possible to feel. As described above, according to any of the first, sixth, and seventh inventions, the expectation for the occurrence of the special gaming state can be varied, and the gaming interest given to the player can be sufficiently enhanced. Become.

  In particular, in the second invention in which the symbol sequence subject to symbol change is a special game fixed symbol sequence, the occurrence of the special gaming state may differ from the normal time before the occurrence of the special gaming state. It is possible to make a player notice. For this reason, in addition to the effect of the first invention, it is possible to increase the player's sense of expectation regarding the occurrence of the special game state at a stretch in a relatively short period until the special game state occurs.

  Further, in the fifth invention in which the symbol sequence subject to symbol change is a reach game fixed symbol sequence, the occurrence degree of the special gaming state is different from the normal time before the occurrence of the reach gaming state prior to the special gaming state. It is possible to make the player aware that it may be. For this reason, in addition to the effect of the first invention, the player's sense of expectation regarding the occurrence of the special gaming state is increased early, that is, the reach gaming state is reached, and the expectation that the special gaming state may eventually occur is early. It becomes possible to hold it from the time.

  According to the third aspect of the invention, a symbol different from the special symbol in the special game fixed symbol sequence is the target of symbol change. Of all the symbols in the special game fixed symbol sequence, symbols that contribute to the occurrence of the special gaming state are left as they are, and symbols that do not contribute to the occurrence of the special gaming state are changed to special symbols. For this reason, in addition to the effect of the second invention, the number of symbols that need to be changed is reduced by the amount of the former symbol remaining. The proportion of the special symbols in the special game confirmed symbol sequence can be made higher than usual by simply changing the number of symbols as small as possible. That is, it is possible to efficiently increase the ratio of the special symbol.

  According to the fourth invention, in the special game fixed symbol sequence, a winning symbol group having a possibility of becoming a special symbol is set as a symbol change target. In addition, in the winning symbol group, a symbol different from the special symbol is changed to a special symbol. Due to this change, the ratio of the special symbol in the special game fixed symbol row increases. For this reason, in addition to the effect of the third invention, it is possible to effectively enhance the player's expectation regarding the occurrence of the special gaming state.

It is a front view which shows the game board of the pachinko machine in 1st embodiment which actualized 1st thru | or 4th invention. (A) thru | or (c) are explanatory drawings which show each symbol row | line | column of left, middle, and right displayed on the symbol display of the game board of FIG. (A) thru | or (e) is explanatory drawing which shows the combination of the jackpot of the symbol displayed on the symbol display of the game board of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control apparatus in the pachinko machine of FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining a main routine executed by the control device of FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a main routine that is executed following FIG. 5. FIG. It is a flowchart explaining the main routine performed following FIG. In the game board of FIG. 1, it is explanatory drawing which shows a symbol display when the symbol of a right-and-left symbol row | line | column becomes a combination of a reach game state. It is explanatory drawing which shows a state when a part of symbol of the middle symbol row | line | column of FIG.2 (b) is changed into another symbol. 7 is a flowchart for explaining a part of a main routine executed by a control device in a second embodiment embodying the first to third inventions. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the middle symbol row | line | column by which the symbol was changed by the process of FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining a part of a main routine executed by a control device in the third embodiment embodying the first to fourth inventions. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the middle symbol row | line | column by which the symbol was changed by the process of FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining a part of a main routine executed by a control device in a fourth embodiment embodying the first to fourth inventions. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the middle symbol row | line | column by which the symbol was changed by the process of FIG. In 5th embodiment which actualized 6th invention, it is a flowchart explaining a part of main routine performed by the control apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the middle symbol row | line | column from which the off symbol was no longer displayed by the process of FIG. In 6th embodiment which actualized 7th invention, it is a flowchart explaining a part of main routine performed by the control apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the middle symbol row | line | column to which the symbol was added by the process of FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a part of a main routine executed by a control device in a seventh embodiment embodying the first to fourth, sixth and seventh inventions. It is explanatory drawing which shows the display screen of the symbol display by which a some symbol row | line | column is displayed by the process of FIG. 18 is a flowchart for explaining a part of a main routine executed by a control device in an eighth embodiment embodying the first and fifth to seventh inventions.

  (First Embodiment) A first embodiment in which the gaming machine of the first to fourth inventions is embodied as a pachinko machine will be described with reference to FIGS.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the game board 2 of the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a guide rail 3 having a substantially annular shape, and a game area 4 is defined on the game board 2 by the guide rail 3. The guide rail 3 is for guiding a game ball 20 launched from a launching device (not shown) in response to a player's handle operation to the upper part of the game area 4. A plurality of winning holes are provided at positions separated from each other in the game area 4, and one out port 5 is provided at the lower end of the game area 4. The game ball 20 guided to the upper part of the game area 4 enters one of these winning openings and out openings 5 in the middle of falling. The winning opening is composed of six normal winning openings 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, one starting opening 12, one specific winning opening 13, and one large winning opening 14. These winning holes 6 to 14 are connected to a prize ball payout device (not shown) on the back side of the game board 2. The winning ball payout device pays out seven winning balls per winning when the gaming balls 20 win the normal winning openings 6, 9 and the starting opening 12, and the normal winning openings 7, 8, 10, 11, and specific winnings. When the game ball 20 wins the mouth 13 and the grand prize opening 14, 15 prize balls are paid out per winning.

  The start port 12 includes a passage (not shown) for the game ball 20. The entrance of this passage is open at the upper end of the start port 12. A rotating body 15 having a ball receiver 15a is disposed in the middle of the passage. An electric motor (not shown) is drivingly connected to the rotating body 15, and the rotating body 15 is always rotated at a constant speed by the electric motor. According to this configuration, when the game ball 20 enters the entrance when the ball receiver 15a is not opposed to the entrance of the passage, the game ball 20 is kept waiting at that position. The game ball 20 enters the ball receiver 15a when the ball receiver 15a faces the entrance as the rotating body 15 rotates. Then, the game ball 20 is conveyed downward by the rotation of the rotating body 15, and is released when the ball receiver 15a reaches the lowest position. The released game ball 20 passes through the game board 2 and is guided to the prize ball payout device.

  The specific winning opening 13 includes a plurality of passages (not shown) for the game balls 20. A shutter 16 made of a horizontally long plate material is supported by shafts at the entrances of these passages. The shutter 16 is connected to a solenoid 17 for a specific prize opening. The solenoid 17 has a coil and a plunger that is reciprocated by excitation and demagnetization of the coil. The solenoid 17 opens and closes the specific winning opening 13 by operating the shutter 16 by the reciprocation of the plunger.

  A special device operating region 18 and a stopping device 19 are provided in the middle of one passage at the specific winning opening 13. The function of the stopping device 19 is to stop only one game ball 20 that is won when the passage of the specific winning opening 13 is opened, and after a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) has elapsed since the passage of the passage by the shutter 16 is closed. , To release the stop. For this purpose, the stopping device 19 blocks the special device operating region 18 and stops the game ball 20 in front of the operating region 18 and releases the special device operating region 18 to release the game ball 20 from stopping. It reciprocates between the release position (position slightly to the right of the stop position). The stopping device 19 is not energized at normal times and is held at the stopping position. The stopping device 19 is energized only when 2 seconds have elapsed since the passage of the specific winning opening 13 is closed, instantaneously displaces to the release position, and then returns to the stopping position. The game ball 20 released from the stop passes through the special device operation area 18 to operate the special device.

  The special winning opening 14 is provided with a passage (not shown) for the game ball 20. The entrance of the passage is open at the upper end of the big prize opening 14. The blades 21 and 21 are supported on the left and right of the entrance of the passage, and a special winning opening solenoid 22 is drivingly connected to them. The solenoid 22 has a coil and a plunger that is reciprocated by excitation and demagnetization of the coil. Both blades 21 and 21 are actuated by the reciprocating movement of the plunger to open and close the entrance of the passage.

  An operation gate 23 is provided as a start winning area at a substantially central portion of the game board 2. In the game board 2, a normal symbol display device 24 is incorporated above the operation gate 23. The device 24 includes a symbol display 25 for displaying a plurality of types of image information. Among these image information, a plurality of symbol sequences, more specifically, a left symbol sequence 26 displayed on the left side portion of the screen 46 of the symbol display 25, a right symbol sequence 28 displayed on the right side portion, Image information relating to the middle symbol row 27 displayed between the left and right symbol rows 26 and 28 is included.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 (a), (b), and (c), the left, middle, and right symbol rows 26, 27, and 28 have 10 winning symbols each consisting of 10 winning symbols 29 and 10 symbols, respectively. It is comprised by the detachment symbol group which consists of the detachment symbol 30. The winning symbol 29 and the off symbol 30 in each symbol row 26 to 28 are alternately arranged. Each winning symbol 29 is a candidate for a special symbol which will be described later, and is composed of a balloon picture and numbers “0” to “9” attached to the surface thereof. Further, each of the off symbols 30 is constituted by a windmill picture. The symbol display 25 displays a part of symbols (about three symbols) of each symbol row 26, 27, 28.

  When the game ball 20 passes through the operation gate 23, the symbols in the left symbol row 26 displayed on the symbol display 25 are changed (changed) in the order shown in FIG. This symbol variation is stopped after a lapse of T1 seconds from passing through the operating gate. Further, when the game ball 20 passes through the operation gate 23, the symbols in the right symbol row 28 displayed on the symbol display 25 are changed in the order shown in FIG. This symbol variation is stopped after a lapse of T2 seconds (> T1) from passing through the operating gate. Further, when the game ball 20 passes through the operation gate 23, the symbols in the middle symbol row 27 displayed on the symbol display 25 are changed in the order shown in FIG. This symbol variation is stopped after a lapse of T3 seconds (> T2) from passing through the operating gate. In this way, the fluctuation of the three symbol rows 26 to 28 is stopped in the order of the left symbol row 26, the right symbol row 28, and the middle symbol row 27.

  When the variation of all the symbol rows 26, 27, 28 is stopped, the combination of symbols displayed on the symbol display 25 is a combination of predetermined jackpot symbols (specific display result, hereinafter simply “ It is sometimes referred to as a combination of jackpot symbols). The big hit symbol combination here is a combination when the hit symbols 29 of the symbol rows 26, 27, 28 are arranged in the same symbol on the hit lines L1, L2, L3, L4, L5. . As shown in *** in FIG. 3, the combination of the big hit symbols is the case where the same hit symbol 29 is arranged in the upper stage of the symbol display 25 (FIG. 3A), or in the middle stage (FIG. 3B). )), Arranged in the lower row (FIG. 3C), arranged in the lower right direction (FIG. 3D), and arranged in the lower left direction (FIG. 3E). In addition, the symbol which comprises the combination of jackpot symbol is equivalent to a special symbol.

  Once the jackpot symbol combination is established, you are entitled to receive three rights. This right guarantees the arrival of the jackpot gaming state as a special gaming state advantageous for the player, specifically, the acquisition of more prize balls. The opening and closing cycle of the winning opening 14 is repeated 16 times (round). The special winning opening 14 is opened until one of the following two conditions (a) and (b) is satisfied first. The condition (a) is that ten game balls 20 are won in the big winning opening 14, and the condition (b) is that 9.5 seconds have passed since the opening of the big winning opening 14. Details of these will be described later.

  Note that, in the above-described three types of symbol sequences 26 to 28, the middle symbol sequence 27 that finally stops changing corresponds to a special game determination symbol sequence for determining a big hit gaming state advantageous to the player. The right symbol sequence 28 that stops changing before the middle symbol sequence 27 corresponds to a reach game determination symbol sequence for determining a reach game state that occurs prior to the big hit game state. In the reach game state, the winning symbols 29 and 29 of both the left and right symbol rows 26 and 28 except for the middle symbol row 27 stop at the same symbols on the hit lines L1 to L5.

  In order to detect a game situation that changes according to the player's operation, the game board 2 includes an operation gate switch 31, a special device switch 32, a start port switch 33, and a count switch 34 as shown in FIG. Each is installed. The operation gate switch 31 detects passage of the game ball 20 at the operation gate 23. The special device switch 32 detects the passing of the game ball 20 in the special device operation area 18, the start port switch 33 detects the winning of the game ball 20 to the start port 12, and the count switch 34 detects the game ball 20. A winning to the big winning opening 14 is detected.

  Based on the detection results of the switches 31 to 34, the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a control device 35 in order to drive and control the symbol display 25, the specific winning port solenoid 17, the stopping device 19, and the large winning port solenoid 22. ing. As shown in FIG. 4, the control device 35 comprises a central processing unit (CPU) 36, a read only memory (ROM) 37, a random access memory (RAM) 38, an input port 39 and an output port 40, which are mutually connected. Connected by a bus 41. The ROM 37 stores a control program, image information data, initial data, and the like in advance. The CPU 36 executes various arithmetic processes according to the control program and the like. The RAM 38 temporarily stores calculation results by the CPU 36, for example, values of a counter C, a flag F, and a random number counter, which will be described later.

  The aforementioned various switches 31 to 34 are connected to the input port 39, and both solenoids 17 and 22, the stopping device 19 and the symbol display 25 are connected to the output port 40. The detection signals of the various switches 31 to 34 are input to the input port 39. In response to the input signal, the CPU 36 drives and controls the solenoids 17 and 22, the stopping device 19 and the symbol display 25 via the output port 40.

  Next, operations and effects of the first embodiment configured as described above will be described. The flowcharts of FIGS. 5 to 7 show a main routine executed by the CPU 36, and are repeatedly executed after the pachinko machine 1 is powered on. Each process of this routine is executed based on the counter C, the flag F, and the random number counter. The counter C is for counting the number of rights remaining at the start of the next control routine, and sequentially takes the values “2”, “1”, and “0”. The flag F is for discriminating the probability mode, and is set to “0” in the low probability mode and switched to “1” in the high probability mode. When the flag F is set to “1”, the probability that the symbol combination is a big hit combination in the symbol display unit 25 is increased by another routine (not shown) than when the flag F is “0”. It becomes easy to establish a combination of symbols. The random number counter is for determining whether or not it is a timing to change the symbol when the reach gaming state is reached. For example, the random number counter takes an integer of “0” to “300”. The random number counter increments by “1” every time a predetermined time (for example, 2 ms) elapses during operation of the pachinko machine 1, and returns the count value to “0” when it reaches “300”.

  The counter C, the flag F, and the random number counter are all initialized by an initial routine (not shown) that is executed when a power switch (not shown) of the pachinko machine 1 is turned on. The initial values of the counter C and the flag F are both “0”.

  Now, when the game by the player is started, the CPU 36 determines in step 100 of FIG. 5 whether or not the game situation satisfies the first condition. Specifically, based on the detection signal of the operation gate switch 31, it is determined whether or not the game ball 20 has passed through the operation gate 23. If this determination condition is not satisfied, the main routine is terminated. If the condition is satisfied, in step 101, the value of the random number counter at that time is acquired (stored). In step 105, a signal for changing the symbols in all symbol rows 26 to 28 is output to the symbol display 25. In response to this signal, the symbol display 25 starts symbol variations of all symbol sequences 26 to 28 that have been stopped. A part of the symbols in the symbol rows 26 to 28 displayed on the symbol indicator 25 changes with time. As a result, it appears to the player that each of the left, middle, and right symbol rows 26 to 28 is rotating.

  Next, in step 110, the CPU 36 determines whether or not T1 seconds have elapsed since the start of symbol variation. If this determination condition is not satisfied, the processing of step 110 is repeated. If the determination condition is satisfied, a signal for stopping the symbol variation in the left symbol row 26 is output to the symbol display 25 in step 115. In response to this signal, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, a winning symbol 29 with “8” is displayed on the upper left portion of the symbol display 25, an off symbol 30 is displayed on the middle portion, and a lower portion is displayed on the lower portion. Will display the winning symbol 29 with “7” attached. At this time, the symbols in the middle symbol row 27 and the right symbol row 28 continue to fluctuate.

  In step 120 of FIG. 5, the CPU 36 determines whether or not T2 seconds (> T1 seconds) have elapsed since the start of symbol variation. If the determination condition is not satisfied, the process of step 120 is repeated. If the determination condition is satisfied, a signal for stopping the symbol variation in the right symbol array 28 is output to the symbol display 25 in step 125. In response to this signal, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, a hit symbol 29 with “6” is displayed on the upper right side of the symbol display 25, an off symbol 30 is displayed on the middle, and a lower symbol is displayed on the lower. Will display the winning symbol 29 with “7” attached. The winning symbol 29 displayed in the lower row is the same as the winning symbol 29 displayed in the lower portion of the left symbol row 26. At this time, the symbols in the middle symbol row 27 continue to fluctuate.

  In step 130 of FIG. 5, the CPU 36 determines whether or not the combination of the symbols displayed on the symbol display 25 is the same as the combination in the reach game state, that is, the winning symbol of both the left and right symbol rows 26 and 28. It is determined whether 29 and 29 are stopped at the same symbol in at least one of the five types of hit lines described above. If this determination condition is satisfied, the routine proceeds to step 131, where it is determined whether or not the second condition is satisfied. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the random number acquired in step 101 is a predetermined symbol change random number. The symbol change random number is one or more numbers from “0” to “300”. If the determination condition of step 131 is satisfied, in step 135, the winning symbols 29 and 29 before and after the same symbol as the reach game state in the winning symbol group in the middle symbol row 27 are the same winning symbol as that symbol. A signal for changing to 29, 29 is output to the symbol display 25, and the routine proceeds to step 140.

  For example, in FIG. 8, the lower symbol in the left symbol row 26 and the lower symbol in the right symbol row 28 are the same hit symbol 29 (a hit symbol with “7”). It is determined that the game state is a reach game. In the reach gaming state, if the middle symbol row 27 stops at the same symbol as the symbol in the reach gaming state, it will be a combination of jackpot symbols, so this last symbol row is the same symbol as the symbol in the reach gaming state The player is expected to stop at. Here, as described above, since the game is in the reach game state with “7”, as shown in FIG. 9, in step 135, the winning symbol (“ 8 ”) 29 and the rear hit symbol (“ 6 ”) 29 are both changed to hit symbols 29 with“ 7 ”(see the dashed line in FIG. 9). Therefore, when the symbol of the middle symbol row 27 changes, the winning symbol 29 with “7”, which is the same symbol as the reach game state, is displayed three times in succession.

  If the determination condition of step 130 is not satisfied (the game state is not reach), or the determination condition of step 130 is satisfied but the determination condition of step 131 is not satisfied (the acquired random number is a symbol change) If it is not a random number, the CPU 36 proceeds to step 140 without performing the process of step 135.

  In step 140, the CPU 36 determines whether or not T3 seconds (> T2 seconds) have elapsed since the start of symbol variation. If this determination condition is not satisfied, the processing of step 140 is repeated. If the determination condition is satisfied, a signal for stopping the symbol variation in the middle symbol row 27 is output to the symbol display 25 in step 145 of FIG. . Then, the middle symbol row 27 that has fluctuated to the end also stops its fluctuation. That is, the symbol variation of all symbol sequences 26 to 28 is stopped.

  In step 150, the CPU 36 determines whether or not the combination of symbols displayed on the symbol display 25 is a combination of jackpots, that is, hit symbols 29, 29, left, middle and right symbol rows 26 to 28. It is determined whether or not 29 stops at the same symbol in at least one of the five types of hit lines L1 to L5 described above. If the determination condition is not satisfied, the main routine is terminated. If the determination condition is satisfied, the processing from step 155 is executed.

  In step 155, the CPU 36 determines whether or not the value of the counter C is “0”. If this determination condition is satisfied (C = 0), the value of the counter C is set to “2” in step 160 and the process proceeds to step 170. On the other hand, if the determination condition of step 155 is not satisfied (C ≠ 0), it is determined that the right that has been generated due to the combination of the jackpot symbol still remains for one or two times. 1 is subtracted and the process proceeds to step 170. In step 170, the flag F is set to “1” to set the high probability mode.

  Next, in step 175, the CPU 36 excites the specific winning opening solenoid 17. Then, the shutter 16 is brought into a substantially horizontal state by the solenoid 17 and the passage entrance of the specific winning opening 13 is opened. With this opening, the game ball 20 can be awarded to the specific winning opening 13. At this time, the special device operating area 18 is blocked by the stopping device 19. For this reason, when the game ball 20 wins the open special winning opening 13, it cannot pass through the operation area 18, but one of the game balls 20 can stop before the operation area 18. . In step 185, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (5.9 seconds) has elapsed since the opening of the specific winning opening 13 was started. If this determination condition is not satisfied, the process of step 175 is repeated.

  On the other hand, when 5.9 seconds have elapsed from the start of opening the specific winning opening 13 and the determination condition of step 185 is satisfied, the CPU 36 demagnetizes the specific winning opening solenoid 17 in step 190. Then, the shutter 16 is brought into a substantially vertical state by the solenoid 17 and the specific winning opening 13 is closed. In step 195, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 2.0 seconds) has elapsed since the specific winning opening 13 was closed. If this determination condition is not satisfied, the process of step 195 is repeated. If the determination condition is satisfied, in step 200, a signal for operating the stopping device 19 is output. In response to this signal, the stopping device 19 opens the special device operating area 18. Since there is no longer anything to stop the game ball 20, if the game ball 20 is stopped before the special device operation area 18 before that, the released game ball 20 is released from the same operation area. 18 can be passed.

  Next, in step 205 of FIG. 7, the CPU 36 determines whether or not the game ball 20 has passed through the special device operation area 18 based on the detection signal of the special device switch 32. If this judgment condition is not satisfied, that is, if the game ball 20 has not won a prize in the specific prize opening 13 or has passed through a passage other than the special device operation area 18 of the prize, the main End the routine. On the other hand, if the determination condition in step 205 is satisfied, the special device is activated in step 210. This operation guarantees one right of acquisition. In step 215, the flag F is switched from “1” to “0” to change the probability mode from the high probability mode to the low probability mode.

  In step 220, the CPU 36 determines whether or not the game ball 20 has won the start opening 12 based on the detection signal of the start opening switch 33. In other words, during the period when the special device is operating, the game ball 20 enters the entrance of the start port 12 and is moved downward by the rotating body 15 rotating at a constant speed, and then close to the start port switch 33. It is determined whether or not it has passed. If this determination condition is not satisfied, it is determined that the game ball 20 has not won the start opening 12 even though the special device is operating, and the processing of step 220 is repeated. On the other hand, when the determination condition in step 220 is satisfied, the special winning opening solenoid 22 is excited in step 225. Then, the left and right blades 21 and 21 are opened by the solenoid 22, the substantial opening area of the big winning opening 14 is expanded, and the game ball 20 is easily won.

  After the big winning opening 14 is opened, the CPU 36 determines in step 230 whether or not ten gaming balls 20 have won the big winning opening 14 based on the detection result of the count switch 34. If this determination condition is not satisfied, it is determined in step 235 whether or not a predetermined time (for example, 9.5 seconds) has elapsed since the opening of the special winning opening 14. If this determination condition is not satisfied, the processing in steps 230 and 235 is repeated. As a result, as long as ten game balls 20 win after the opening of the big winning opening 14 or 9.5 seconds have passed after the opening starts, the big winning opening 14 continues to be opened.

  If any of the determination conditions of steps 230 and 235 is satisfied, the CPU 36 demagnetizes the special winning opening solenoid 22 in step 240. Then, the left and right blades 21 and 21 that have been opened until then are closed, and the special winning opening 14 is returned to the normal state. Thereafter, in step 245, it is determined whether or not the winning of the game ball 20 to the start port 12 has been detected 16 times by the start port switch 33. If this determination condition is not satisfied, the processes of steps 220 to 245 described above are repeated. Therefore, once the special device is activated (right is guaranteed), the big winning opening 14 repeats the opening and closing cycle until the game ball 20 wins the starting opening 16 16 times.

  Then, when the game ball 20 wins 16 times at the start port 12 and the determination condition of Step 245 is satisfied, that is, when the right for one time is consumed, the CPU 36 stops the operation of the special device at Step 250. Thereafter, in step 255, it is determined whether or not the value of the counter C is “0”. If this determination condition is satisfied (C = 0), it is determined that all three rights are consumed, the flag F is set to “0” in step 260, and the main routine is terminated. If the determination condition of step 255 is not satisfied (C ≠ 0), it is determined that the rights are still left twice or once, and the flag F is set to “1” in step 265 and the main routine is executed. finish. Therefore, when the right remains in this way, the next control routine is started in the high probability mode.

  According to the main routine, the flag F is set to “1” in a period until the symbol displayed on the symbol display unit 25 is a combination of big hit symbols and the special device is activated. Further, the flag F is set to “1” in a period from the end of the first operation of the special device to the start of the second operation and a period from the end of the second operation to the start of the third operation. During these periods, the probability of a big hit is increased. In other words, if the right remains, the combination of symbols when the symbol columns 26 to 28 are suspended is more likely to be a combination of jackpot symbols than in the normal case. During the period other than the above, the flag F is set to “0”, and the probability of a combination of jackpot symbols is lowered.

  In the first embodiment, the gaming state detection means is configured by the operation gate switch 31 described above, the processing of step 100 by the CPU 36 in the main routine, and the processing of step 131 as well. In the main routine, the processing of steps 100 and 105 by the CPU 36 corresponds to display control means, the processing of steps 150 to 265 corresponds to special game state generation means, and the processing of step 135 corresponds to symbol changing means.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, when the symbol variation in the predetermined symbol sequence (the right symbol sequence 28) is stopped, the symbol display 25 is configured to stop the next symbol variation in the symbol display 25. At the display location of the column 27, a symbol column different from the normal time is displayed in a variable manner. Here, a part of the symbols in the middle symbol row 27 that continues to change after the reach gaming state is established is displayed after being changed to another symbol. For this reason, a player who has noticed a symbol change after the reach gaming state is established may stop a symbol different from normal in the symbol row scheduled to stop the fluctuation, resulting in a big hit gaming state. It can be expected.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, when the reach game state is entered in a state where the symbol change random number has been acquired, a part of the symbols in the middle symbol row 27 during the symbol change is changed to another symbol. Here, the winning symbol 29 with “6” and the winning symbol 29 with “8” are both changed to the winning symbol 29 with “7”. On the symbol display 25, a middle symbol row 27 different from the middle symbol row seen in the normal reach gaming state is variably displayed. That is, in the normal reach gaming state, in the middle symbol row 27,..., “6” is a hit symbol 29, a miss symbol 30 is a “7” hit symbol 29, a miss symbol 30 is “ The symbols are variably displayed in the order of the winning symbol 29... With “8”, whereas in the middle symbol row 27 after the symbol change,..., The winning symbol 29 with “7”, The symbols are variably displayed in the order of the winning symbol 30, the winning symbol 29 with “7”, the falling symbol 30, the winning symbol 29 with “7”, the falling symbol 30,. In this way, in the middle symbol row 27 after the symbol change, the ratio of the winning symbol 29 (same symbol as the reach game state) with “7” in all symbols is higher than usual. For this reason, it is possible to make the player feel that the big hit gaming state may occur more easily than usual. The expectation for occurrence of the big hit gaming state can be enhanced, and the gaming interests given to the player can be sufficiently enhanced.

  In particular, since the symbol row subject to symbol change is the middle symbol row 27 (special game fixed symbol row), the occurrence degree of the big hit gaming state is normal during the reach gaming state before the big hit gaming state occurs. The player can be reminded that it may be different. For this reason, the player's expectation regarding occurrence of the big hit gaming state can be increased at a stretch in a relatively short period from the occurrence of the reach gaming state to the occurrence of the big hit gaming state.

  Further, in the middle symbol row 27, a symbol different from the same symbol as the reach game state (a winning symbol 29 with “7”) is set as a symbol change target. Of all the symbols in the middle symbol row 27, the winning symbol 29 that was originally assigned “7” that contributes to the occurrence of the big hit gaming state is left as it is, and a part of the symbols that do not contribute to the occurrence of the big hit gaming state is reached. It is changed to the same design as the gaming state. The number of symbols that need to be changed is reduced by the amount of the symbol 29 that was originally assigned with “7”. The proportion of the same symbols as the reach gaming state in the middle symbol row 27 can be made higher than that in the normal reach gaming state by changing the number of symbols as small as possible. In other words, it is possible to efficiently increase the proportion of the same symbol as the reach gaming state.

  Further, in the middle symbol row 27, a winning symbol group having the possibility of becoming the same symbol as the reach gaming state is set as a symbol change target. Moreover, as described above, the symbols different from the reach game state are changed to the same symbols. By this change, the proportion of the same symbols as the reach gaming state in all symbols in the middle symbol row 27 increases. For this reason, a player's expectation regarding generation | occurrence | production of a jackpot game state can be heightened effectively. In addition, the same symbol as the reach gaming state is displayed three times in succession with the detaching symbol 30 in between, and the fact that the proportion of the same symbol as the reach gaming state is high is strongly influenced by the player's vision. Effective for making impressions.

  (Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment embodying the first to third inventions will be described with reference to FIGS. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in part of the contents of the main routine by the CPU 36 (step 135). The difference will be described below. In addition, since the structure of the pachinko machine 1 and the control apparatus 35 other than the main routine is the same as that of the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted here.

  If both the determination conditions in steps 130 and 131 in FIG. 10 are satisfied, the CPU 36 proceeds to step 135A. In step 135A, a signal for changing all the off symbols 30 in the middle symbol row 27 to the same symbol as the reach gaming state is output to the symbol display 25. For example, as shown in FIG. 8 described above, in the reach gaming state in which the lower symbol in the left symbol row 26 and the lower symbol in the right symbol row 28 are both hit symbols 29 with “7” attached. In FIG. 11, all the off symbols 30 surrounded by the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 11 are changed to hit symbols 29 to which “7” is attached.

  After executing the process of step 135A, the CPU 36 executes the processes after step 140 described above. If one of the determination conditions of steps 130 and 131 is not satisfied, the processing after step 140 is executed without performing the processing of step 135A.

  In the main routine, the process of step 135A by the CPU 36 corresponds to the symbol changing means.

  Therefore, the second embodiment has the same features and effects as the first embodiment, and also has the following characteristics. When the pachinko machine 1 is in the reach gaming state, the display position of the middle symbol row 27 in the symbol display 25 includes the original 10 winning symbols and 10 off symbols that have been changed to the same symbols as the reach gaming state. Is displayed. Of the 20 symbols in total, 11 symbols (10 off symbols that were changed to “7” by the change and one hit symbol that was originally assigned “7”) are the same as the reach game state. Become. In all symbols, the proportion of the same symbol as the reach game state becomes 1/2 or more. Therefore, the player who notices this change has the expectation that the middle symbol row 27 is more likely to stop at the same symbol as the reach gaming state than usual, and the jackpot gaming state may be more likely to occur. You can make it.

  (Third Embodiment) Next, a third embodiment embodying the first to fourth inventions will be described with reference to FIGS. Similar to the second embodiment, the third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in a part of the contents of the main routine by the CPU 36 (step 135). Since other parts are the same as those in the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted here.

  If both the determination conditions in steps 130 and 131 in FIG. 12 are satisfied, the CPU 36 proceeds to step 135B. In step 135B, a signal for changing a symbol different from the reach game state among the winning symbols in the middle symbol row 27 to the same symbol as the reach game state is output to the symbol display 25. For example, as shown in FIG. 8 described above, in the reach gaming state in which the lower symbol in the left symbol row 26 and the lower symbol in the right symbol row 28 are both hit symbols 29 with “7” attached. 13 includes all hit symbols 29 with numbers (“0” to “6”, “8”, “9”) other than the hit symbols 29 originally assigned with “7” in FIG. However, as indicated by the alternate long and short dash line, the symbol is changed to a hit symbol 29 to which “7” is attached.

  Then, after executing the process of step 135B, the CPU 36 executes the processes after step 140 described above. If one of the determination conditions of steps 130 and 131 is not satisfied, the processing after step 140 is executed without performing the processing of step 135B.

  In the main routine, the process of step 135B by the CPU 36 corresponds to the symbol changing means.

  Accordingly, the third embodiment has the following features in addition to the same operations and effects as the first embodiment. When reaching the reach game state, a winning symbol group having the same symbol as the reach game state and a missed symbol group are displayed at the display position of the middle symbol row 27 on the symbol display 25. Of the 20 symbols, 10 symbols are the same as the reach game state. In all symbols, the proportion of the same symbol as the reach gaming state is exactly ½. Therefore, by making the player aware of the change of the winning symbol 29, the middle symbol row 27 is more likely to stop at the same symbol as the reach gaming state than usual, and the big hit gaming state may occur with a high probability. It can be expected that there is no.

  (Fourth Embodiment) Next, a fourth embodiment embodying the first to fourth inventions will be described with reference to FIGS. As in the second embodiment, the fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in part of the contents of the main routine by the CPU 36 (step 135). Since other parts are the same as those in the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted here.

  The CPU 36 proceeds to step 135C when the determination conditions in steps 130 and 131 in FIG. 14 are both satisfied. In step 135C, in the middle symbol row 27, a signal for changing all the winning symbols 29 and all the off symbols 30 different from the symbols in the reach gaming state to the same symbols as the reach gaming state is sent to the symbol display 25. Output. As a result, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, the reach gaming state in which the lower symbol in the left symbol row 26 and the lower symbol in the right symbol row 28 are both hit symbols 29 with “7” attached. In the case of FIG. 15, in addition to the hit symbol 29 originally “7” in FIG. 15, all hits with other numbers (“0” to “6”, “8”, “9”) are applied. The symbol 29 and all the off symbols 30 are changed to a hit symbol 29 with “7” as shown by a one-dot chain line.

  Then, after executing the process of step 135C, the CPU 36 executes the processes after step 140 described above. If one of the determination conditions of steps 130 and 131 is not satisfied, the processing after step 140 is executed without performing the processing of step 135C.

  In the main routine, the process of step 135C by the CPU 36 corresponds to the symbol changing means.

  Therefore, the fourth embodiment has the same features and effects as the first embodiment, and has the following features. When the reach gaming state is reached, the symbol display unit 25 in the middle symbol row 27 where the symbol variation is scheduled to be stopped at the end is all the winning symbols 29 in the same symbol as the reach gaming state and all missed symbols. The symbol 30 is displayed. Of all 20 symbols, all (20) symbols are the same as the reach game state. The percentage of the same symbol as the reach game state is 100% in all symbols. Therefore, the player who has noticed this symbol change is very likely to stop the middle symbol row 27 at the same symbol as the reach gaming state, and can expect that a big hit gaming state may occur. .

  (Fifth Embodiment) Next, a fifth embodiment embodying the sixth invention will be described with reference to FIGS. As in the second embodiment, the fifth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in part of the contents of the main routine by the CPU 36 (step 135). Since other parts are the same as those in the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted here.

  When the determination condition of step 130 in FIG. 16 is satisfied, the CPU 36 proceeds to step 131A and determines whether or not the random number acquired in step 101 is a predetermined symbol display prohibition random number. The symbol display prohibition random number is one or more numbers from “0” to “300”, similar to the symbol change random number. If the determination condition of step 131A is satisfied, in step 135D, a signal for prohibiting the display of all off symbol 30 in the middle symbol row 27 is output to the symbol display 25. As a result, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, the reach gaming state in which the lower symbol in the left symbol row 26 and the lower symbol in the right symbol row 28 are both hit symbols 29 with “7” attached. In this case, all the off symbols 30 in the middle symbol row 27 are not displayed, and only the original hit symbols 29 (10 hit symbols with “0” to “9”) are displayed.

  Then, after executing the process of step 135D, the CPU 36 executes the processes after step 140 described above. If one of the determination conditions of steps 130 and 131 is not satisfied, the processing after step 140 is executed without performing the processing of step 135D.

  In the main routine, the process of step 135D by the CPU 36 corresponds to display prohibiting means.

  Therefore, the fifth embodiment has the following features in addition to the same operations and effects as the first embodiment. In the reach game state, only the original winning symbol 29 is displayed at the display location of the middle symbol row 27 where the symbol variation is to be stopped last on the symbol display 25. The displayed symbols are reduced from 20 to 10, and one of them is the same as the reach game state. Therefore, a player who realizes that the symbol 30 has disappeared due to the prohibition of symbol display is more likely to stop the middle symbol row 27 in the same symbol as the reach gaming state than in the normal state, and a big hit gaming state occurs. You can have the expectation that you might.

  (Sixth Embodiment) Next, a sixth embodiment embodying the seventh invention will be described with reference to FIGS. As in the second embodiment, the sixth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in part of the contents of the main routine by the CPU 36 (step 135). Since other parts are the same as those in the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted here.

  When the determination condition of step 130 in FIG. 18 is satisfied, the CPU 36 proceeds to step 131B, and determines whether or not the random number acquired in step 101 is a predetermined symbol additional random number. The symbol added random number is one or more numbers from “0” to “300”, similar to the symbol changed random number. If the determination condition of step 131B is satisfied, in step 135E, the same symbol as the reach gaming state is added immediately before and immediately after the same symbol as the reach gaming state in the winning symbol group in the middle symbol row 27. Signal for output to the symbol display 25. Here, the term “immediately before” refers to the same symbol as the reach game state and the preceding symbol 30, and the term “immediately” refers to the symbol identical to the reach game state and the symbol “30” behind it. . As a result, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, the reach gaming state in which the lower symbol in the left symbol row 26 and the lower symbol in the right symbol row 28 are both hit symbols 29 with “7” attached. In the case of, two hit symbols 29 each having “7” are added and displayed before and after the hit symbol 29 originally having “7” in the middle symbol row 27, as indicated by a one-dot chain line. Is done.

  Then, after executing the process of step 135E, the CPU 36 executes the processes after step 140 described above. If one of the determination conditions of steps 130 and 131 is not satisfied, the processing after step 140 is executed without performing the processing of step 135E.

  In the main routine, the process of step 135E by the CPU 36 corresponds to a symbol adding means.

  Accordingly, the sixth embodiment has the following features in addition to the same operations and effects as the first embodiment. When the reach gaming state is reached, a larger number of hit symbols 29 are displayed at the display location of the middle symbol row 27 on the symbol display 25 than in the normal state. The number of symbols to be displayed increases from 20 to 22, and three of them are the same symbols as the reach game state. Moreover, these three symbols are displayed in succession. Therefore, it is expected that the player who notices this increase in the symbol is more likely to stop the middle symbol row 27 at the same symbol as the reach gaming state than in the normal time, and a big hit gaming state may occur than in the normal time. Can be held.

  (Seventh Embodiment) Next, a seventh embodiment embodying the first to fourth, sixth and seventh inventions will be described with reference to FIGS. In the seventh embodiment, in addition to the above-described three symbol sequences 26 to 28 of left, middle, and right, image data and character data relating to a plurality of symbol sequences are created and stored in the ROM 37, and the CPU 36 A part of the contents of the main routine (step 135) is changed, and a selection switch (not shown) operated by the player to select one from a plurality of symbol rows is provided. This is different from the first embodiment. These differences will be described below.

  The CPU 36 proceeds to step 132 when the determination conditions in steps 130 and 131 in FIG. In step 132, image data and character data relating to a plurality of symbol sequences stored in the ROM 37 are read, and a signal for displaying those symbol sequences and character strings on the symbol display unit 25 is output. In response to this signal, a plurality of (five in the figure) symbol rows 42a, 42b, 42c, 42d, and 42e are selected on the screen of the symbol display 25 as shown by a two-dot chain line in FIG. A character string 43 “Please select one symbol” is displayed. Here, the symbols 42a to 42e may be the symbol sequence after the change described in the first to fourth embodiments, or the symbol sequence after display prohibition described in the fifth embodiment. The symbol sequence after the symbol addition described in the sixth embodiment may be used.

  Next, in step 133 of FIG. 20, the CPU 36 determines whether one of the plurality of symbol strings displayed on the symbol display unit 25 has been selected by the player based on the signal from the selection switch. If this determination condition is not satisfied, the process of step 133 is repeated. If the determination condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step 134, and a signal for changing the middle symbol sequence 27 displayed so far to the selected symbol sequence is displayed. To the symbol display 25.

  Then, after executing the process of step 134, the CPU 36 executes the processes after step 140 described above. If any one of the determination conditions of steps 130 and 131 is not satisfied, the processing from step 140 is executed without performing the processing of steps 132 to 134.

  In the main routine, the processing of steps 131 to 133 by the CPU 36 corresponds to the game situation detection means, and the processing of step 134 corresponds to the symbol change means.

  Therefore, the seventh embodiment has the following features in addition to the same operations and effects as the first embodiment. When reaching the reach game state, a plurality of symbol rows 42a to 42e to be replaced with the middle symbol row 27 are displayed on the symbol display 25, and one of them is selected by the player. Therefore, in this case as well, it is expected that the middle symbol row 27 that stops the last change is more likely to stop at the same symbol as the reach gaming state than usual, and that a big hit gaming state may occur. Can be held in. Moreover, since the selection of the symbol rows 42a to 42e is left to the player, the sense of expectation can be further enhanced.

  (Eighth Embodiment) Next, an eighth embodiment embodying the first and fifth to seventh inventions will be described with reference to FIG. As in the second embodiment, the eighth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in part of the contents of the main routine executed by the CPU 36. Since other parts are the same as those in the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted here.

  When the game is started by the player, the CPU 36 determines in step 100 whether or not the game situation satisfies the first condition. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the game ball 20 has passed through the operation gate 23. If this determination condition is satisfied, the count value of the random number counter at that time is acquired (stored) in step 101. In step 105, symbol variation in all symbol sequences 26 to 28 is started. In step 110, it is determined whether or not T1 seconds have elapsed since the start of the symbol variation. If this determination condition is satisfied, the symbol variation in the left symbol array 26 is stopped in step 115. So far, it is the same as the first embodiment.

  Next, the CPU 36 determines whether or not the second condition is satisfied in steps 116 and 117. Specifically, in step 116, it is determined whether or not the symbol displayed after the fluctuation stop is the winning symbol 29. In step 117, it is determined whether or not the random number acquired in step 101 is a predetermined symbol change random number. If the determination conditions in steps 116 and 117 are both satisfied, a signal for changing the right symbol row 28 is output to the symbol display 25 in step 118. Examples of this change include the following (a) to (f). (A) In the same manner as in the first embodiment, among the winning symbols 29 in the right symbol row 28, at least one immediately before and immediately after the same symbol as the stop symbol in the left symbol row 26 is changed to the same symbol as the stop symbol. . (B) As in the second embodiment, at least some of the removed symbols 30 are changed to the same symbols as the stopped symbols in the left symbol row 26. (C) As in the third embodiment, the hit symbol 29 different from the stop symbol in the left symbol row 26 is changed to the same symbol as the stop symbol. (D) As in the fourth embodiment, all the winning symbols 29 and all the off symbols 30 different from the stop symbol in the left symbol row 26 are changed to the same symbol as the stop symbol. (E) As in the fifth embodiment, display of all the off symbols 30 is prohibited. (F) Another symbol is added as in the sixth embodiment.

  After executing the processing of step 118, the CPU 36 proceeds to step 120. In addition, if any one of the determination conditions of steps 116 and 117 is not satisfied, that is, the symbol displayed after the stop of the fluctuation is out of symbol 30 or the symbol 29 is a symbol change random number although it is a winning symbol 29 The process proceeds to step 120 without performing the process of step 118.

  In step 120, the CPU 36 determines whether or not T2 seconds (> T1 seconds) have elapsed since the start of symbol variation. If this determination condition is satisfied, in step 125, the symbols in the right symbol array 28 are determined. Stop fluctuation. Next, in step 140, it is determined whether or not T3 seconds (> T2 seconds) have elapsed since the start of symbol variation. Subsequent processing is the same as in the first embodiment.

  The above-described operation gate switch 31, the processing of step 100 by the CPU 36 in the main routine, the processing of step 116, and the processing of step 131 constitute a game situation detecting means. In the main routine, the process of step 118 by the CPU 36 corresponds to the symbol changing means.

  Therefore, the eighth embodiment has the same features and effects as the first embodiment, and also has the following characteristics. Among the left symbol row 26 and the right symbol row 28 constituting the reach gaming state, when the symbol variation of the left symbol row 26 is stopped before the reach gaming state is established, the symbol variation is stopped on the symbol display 25 next. At the display location of the right symbol row 28 that is scheduled to be displayed, a symbol row different from the normal symbol row is variably displayed. Therefore, the player who notices the change of the symbol has the expectation that the symbol different from the normal time may be stopped, that is, reach a gaming state and eventually a jackpot gaming state may occur. be able to.

  Note that the present invention can be embodied in another embodiment described below.

  (1) The present invention can be applied to a gaming machine having a symbol display. As such a gaming machine, in addition to the pachinko machine 1, there are an alepacchi, an arrangement ball, a throttle machine, and the like. For example, in the case of a throttle machine, in accordance with a player's operation such as insertion of a medal or lever operation, the variation display of the symbol row on the symbol display is started.

  (2) The display form of the symbol row on the symbol display 25 in each embodiment may be variously changed. For example, the number of symbol rows may be changed to one, two, four or more, or each symbol row may be arranged and displayed so as to extend in the horizontal direction.

  In particular, when the number of symbol sequences is changed to one, the symbol variation in the symbol sequence is started by passing the action gate of the game ball, and the variation is stopped after a predetermined time has elapsed. When the stop symbol is a specific symbol set in advance, a big hit gaming state advantageous to the player is generated based on the symbol. In the middle of such a series of operations, if the second condition is satisfied before the jackpot gaming state occurs (for example, when a little time has elapsed from the start of the symbol variation with the symbol change random number acquired), the symbol sequence is Change to a different symbol row or change the symbol. In addition, a specific character is displayed during symbol variation, and when the symbol is displayed, the symbol row is replaced with another symbol row or the symbol is changed. Even in this embodiment, the player who has noticed the symbol change is more likely than the normal time that the changing symbol sequence will stop at a symbol different from the normal time, and a big hit gaming state may occur. It can make you feel.

  (3) In the first embodiment, in the winning symbol group, only the winning symbol 29 immediately before the same symbol as the reach game state may be changed, or only the winning symbol 29 after one may be changed. May be. In this way, since the same winning symbol as the reach gaming state is variably displayed twice in succession, the expectation for occurrence of the big hit gaming state can be enhanced as in the first embodiment. Further, in this regard, at least one of m pieces (m is an integer of 2 or more) and n pieces (n is an integer of 2 or more) following the same symbol as the reach gaming state is designated as the reach gaming state. You may change to the same design.

  (4) In the second embodiment, only a part of the off symbols 30 may be changed to the same symbols as the reach game state. For example, as in the first embodiment and (3) above, at least one of front and rear of the same symbol as the reach game state may be changed to the same symbol as the reach game state in the outlier symbol group.

  (5) In the fourth embodiment, when reaching the reach gaming state, a part of the winning symbol 29 different from the reach gaming state in the middle symbol row 27 and a part of the off symbol 30 are the same as the reach gaming state. You may change to a design.

  (6) In the fifth embodiment, when the reach gaming state is reached, only a part of the off symbol 30 in the middle symbol row 27 may not be displayed.

  (7) In the fifth embodiment, instead of the middle symbol row 27, it may be prohibited to display some symbols in the right symbol row 28. In this way, a player who notices that some of the symbols are no longer displayed may stop the symbols that are different from the normal time, that is, reach a gaming state, and eventually a big hit game. It can be expected that a condition may occur. In the fifth embodiment, in addition to the middle symbol row 27, it may be prohibited to display some symbols in the right symbol row 28. In this way, by prohibiting the symbol display in the right symbol row 28 before the reach gaming state is established, the player is expected to reach the reach gaming state and eventually the big hit gaming state may occur. You can make it. Then, by prohibiting the symbol display in the middle symbol row 27 after the reach reach state is established, the player's expectation for the occurrence of the big hit gaming state can be further enhanced.

  (8) In the sixth embodiment, the number of hit symbols 29 to be added to the middle symbol row 27 may be increased or decreased when reaching the reach gaming state. Moreover, the position added at this time may be other than the location shown in the sixth embodiment.

  (9) In the sixth embodiment, another symbol may be added to the right symbol row 28 instead of the middle symbol row 27. In this way, a player who notices that the number of symbols is increasing may stop the symbols different from the normal time, that is, reach a gaming state, and eventually a big hit gaming state may occur. You can have the expectation that you can't. In the sixth embodiment, another symbol may be added to both the middle symbol row 27 and the right symbol row 28. In this way, by increasing the number of symbols in the right symbol row 28 before the reach gaming state is established, the player is expected to reach a reach gaming state, and eventually a big hit gaming state may occur. be able to. Then, the subsequent increase in symbols in the middle symbol row 27 after the reach gaming state is established can further increase the player's expectation for the occurrence of the big hit gaming state.

  (10) In the seventh embodiment, the control device 35 may automatically select any one of a plurality of symbol strings displayed on the symbol display 25.

  (11) In the first to fourth embodiments and the eighth embodiment, another requirement may be added as the second condition. For example, in the eighth embodiment, “the stop symbol in the left symbol row 26 is a winning symbol with a specific number” may be an additional requirement.

  (12) In the first to sixth embodiments and the eighth embodiment, the symbols in the middle symbol row 27 have been changed, added, and deleted (prohibition of display), but the symbol row (similar to the seventh embodiment) 42a to 42e) may be created in advance, and the middle symbol row 27 may be replaced with the created symbol row.

  (13) The fifth embodiment and the sixth embodiment may be combined. In other words, when the pachinko machine 1 is in the reach gaming state, at least a part of the out symbol 30 in the middle symbol row 27 may be prohibited from being displayed, and the middle symbol row 27 may be added with the symbol 29. Referring to FIG. 19 described above, for example, the off symbol 30 immediately before the added front symbol (the hit symbol with “7”) and the off symbol 30 immediately after the rear symbol are not displayed. Like that.

  (14) In each of the above embodiments, the type of pachinko machine in which the right is generated three times in the third type gaming machine has been described, but the present invention can be embodied in other types of pachinko machines. For example, it can be embodied in a type in which the right is generated once, twice, four times or more in the third type, or in the first and second type pachinko machines. In addition, the winning symbol is composed of two types of symbols, the first symbol and the second symbol, and it is also embodied in a pachinko machine of the type that can generate a big hit gaming state only when it becomes a big hit combination in the first symbol it can. In this case, for example, when the left symbol row 28 stops at the first symbol row, the first symbol in the right symbol row 28 is displayed more frequently, or the first symbol in the middle symbol row is in the reach game state. It is conceivable to increase the display frequency of symbols.

  (15) In the first to seventh embodiments, the same symbol as the reach gaming state in the middle symbol row 27 (the hit symbol 29 with the numeral “7”), or the right symbol row 28 in the eighth embodiment. The same symbols as those in the reach game state in the middle may be subject to symbol change as with other symbols. For example, these symbols are changed to a symbol different from the reach game state, and the ratio of the symbols identical to the reach game state in the symbol row is made lower than usual. Then, it is possible to make the player feel that the big hit gaming state may be less likely to occur than usual. Even in this case, it is possible to make the sense of expectation for occurrence of the big hit gaming state rich in change, and to enhance the gaming interest given to the player.

  (16) In the first to seventh embodiments, only the arrangement order may be changed without changing the types of symbols constituting the middle symbol row 27. Similarly, in the eighth embodiment, only the arrangement order may be changed without changing the types of symbols constituting the right symbol row 28.

  (17) The contents of the special gaming state may be changed to contents different from the jackpot gaming state described in the above embodiments. That is, in each embodiment, the big winning opening 14 is opened until p (= 10) game balls 20 wins, and this state is continued until the game ball 20 wins the start opening 12 q (= 16) times. However, here, it is assumed that the special game state includes those appropriately changing the values of p and q.

  (18) The present invention has a button for stopping variation in addition to the pachinko machine of the type in which the symbol variation is automatically stopped after a predetermined time has elapsed since the symbol variation start in each symbol row 26 to 28, It can also be embodied in a pachinko machine of the type in which the symbol variation is stopped according to the button operation by the user.

  (19) In the reach gaming state, in addition to the state described in each of the above embodiments, a combination of symbols in other symbol sequences except for one of a plurality of symbol sequences is a part of the combination of jackpot symbols The state where the symbols of all the symbol sequences continue to fluctuate in the state of configuring is also included. For example, in each of the above embodiments, the combination of symbols when the winning symbol with the numeral “7” is arranged on the winning line is the combination of the big winning symbol. Then, this state includes what is called a full rotation reach, in which the symbols of the left and right symbol rows 26 and 28 change in a state where they are aligned on the hit line, are also included in the reach gaming state here.

  (20) You may combine each of 1st thru | or 7th embodiment, and 8th embodiment. Specifically, when the first symbol change random number is acquired and the stop symbol in the left symbol row 26 is a winning symbol, the symbol in the right symbol row 28 is changed. After that, the symbol variation in the right symbol sequence 28 is stopped, and if the stop symbol is the same as the stopped symbol in the left symbol sequence 26, that is, in the reach gaming state, the second symbol change random number is acquired. If so, the symbol of the middle symbol row 27 that has changed to the end is changed. In this way, it is anticipated from an early stage that the player will be in a reach gaming state due to the symbol change in the right handle row 28 before the reach gaming state is established, and eventually a big hit gaming state may occur. You can make it. Further, by the subsequent symbol change in the middle symbol row 27 after the reach gaming state is established, it is possible to further increase the player's expectation for the occurrence of the big hit gaming state.

  (21) In the right symbol row 28, any one of “Change symbol”, “Prohibit symbol display”, and “Add symbol” is performed. In the middle symbol column 27, “Change symbol”, “Prohibit symbol display”, A process different from that in the right symbol row 28 in “add symbol” may be performed. This combination includes: (a) “Change of symbol” in the right symbol row 28 and “No symbol display” in the middle symbol row 27, (b) “Change of symbol” in the right symbol row 28 and middle “Add symbol” in symbol column 27, (c) “Prohibit symbol display” in right symbol column 28, “Change symbol” in middle symbol column 27, (d) “Character symbol in right symbol column 28” "Display prohibited" and "Add symbol" in the middle symbol column 27, (e) "Add symbol" in the right symbol column 28, "Change symbol" in the middle symbol column 27, (f) Right symbol column “Add symbol” at 28 and “Prohibit display of symbol” at the middle symbol column 27.

  (22) One of the right symbol row 28 and the middle symbol row 27 may change the symbol row, and the other may change the symbol.

  (23) The present invention can also be applied to a type of gaming machine in which the symbol sequence stops in a different order from the above embodiments.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 25 as a gaming machine Symbol display 26 Left symbol row 27 Middle symbol row 28 Right symbol row 29 Right symbol row 29 Per symbol 31 Switch for operation gate which constitutes a part of game situation detection means 36 Game situation detection means and display control means , CPU constituting special game state generating means, symbol changing means, display prohibiting means, and symbol adding means

Claims (1)

There is a symbol display for displaying at least one symbol string composed of a plurality of types of symbols, a gaming status detection means for detecting a gaming status that changes according to the player's operation, and a gaming status by the gaming status detection means. When the first condition is satisfied, the display control means for controlling the symbol display to display the symbols of the symbol sequence in a variable manner, and the symbol sequence by the display control means is based on stopping at a predetermined special symbol. And a special gaming state generating means for generating a special gaming state advantageous to the player,
If the gaming status by the gaming status detection means satisfies the second condition before the special gaming status is generated by the special gaming status generating means, at least a part of the symbols in the symbol string by the display control means is changed to another symbol. A gaming machine comprising a symbol changing means for changing.

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