JP2010246968A - Pinball game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To increase excitement and enjoyment of a game by enabling continuous performances during which a story continuously develops over multiple variable displays. <P>SOLUTION: A pinball game machine has: a single performance patten table where single performance patterns that are each completed in a single variable display are recorded; a continuous performance pattern table where continuous performance patterns that are continued over multiple variable displays are recorded; a continuous performance determination means for determining whether or not to start continuous performance in the variable display when no continuous performances are currently being executed; and a performance pattern selection means for selecting the performance pattern. The performance pattern selection means selects a performance pattern from the continuous performance pattern table when the continuous performance means are currently being executed or when the continuous performances are about to be started, while it selects a performance pattern from the single direction pattern table when no continuous performances are started. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a ball game machine that displays a special symbol related to whether or not a jackpot game is generated, and more particularly to a ball game machine that may be accompanied by an effect suggesting the possibility of a jackpot game accompanying the display.

  Conventionally, in a ball game machine, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, a so-called “hit game” is likely to occur that is likely to bring a large profit to the player as compared to a normal game. There are a variety of these predetermined conditions, but the most common is when the symbol displayed on the LCD screen starts to fluctuate and stops when the winning at the predetermined starting point occurs. The jackpot game is generated when a predetermined symbol is displayed. A symbol that stops after this change is called a special symbol. Special symbols are usually made up of three-digit numbers, etc., and are stopped sequentially for each digit, thereby enhancing the interest in generating jackpot games. In the case of so-called “reach”, which is a special symbol related to the occurrence of jackpot game, depending on the remaining one-digit symbol when two digits out of the three-digit symbol are stopped, In addition, there is a case where an image having a story that improves the expectation for the occurrence of the big hit game is displayed as a production separately from the design. As this effect, various patterns are usually prepared, but as the story develops in one pattern, the expectation for the occurrence of the jackpot game is often high.

JP-A-10-179863 (paragraph "0002")

The effects as described above are completed while the special symbol variation display ends once. Therefore, when the story does not develop within one change display, the expectation for winning is low, so the interest in the game has been reduced.
In addition, productions that develop stories often take a long time. Therefore, there is a high possibility that the number of reserved balls will reach the upper limit by winning at the starting point during the development of the production, and after that, a player who makes a so-called “stop” that interrupts the ball with a stop button or the like until the production ends. There are many. For this reason, the operating rate was reduced during the development of production.
Therefore, the first aspect of the present invention enables a continuous production in which a story develops over a plurality of variable displays only when a holding ball is provided, so that the continuous production can be smoothly executed and The purpose is to increase interest.

In addition, the first reference invention aims to increase the interest of the game by enabling a continuous production in which a story develops over a plurality of variable displays.
In addition to the object of the first reference invention, the second reference invention aims to smoothly execute a continuous effect only by enabling a continuous effect only when the number of reserved balls is plural. .
Furthermore, in addition to the object of the second reference invention, the third reference invention starts a continuous effect at an appropriate timing by allowing a continuous effect to be executed only from the variation display in the case of so-called “losing”. The purpose is to let you.
Further, in addition to the object of the third reference invention, the fourth reference invention enables continuous production from the variable display only when a jackpot game is generated in the holding ball after the variable display. The purpose is to improve the expectation of the performance.

Furthermore, in addition to the object of the third reference invention, the fifth reference invention has an object of selecting an appropriate pattern by selecting a pattern of continuous production according to whether or not the number of reserved balls is correct.
In addition to the object of the third reference invention, the sixth reference invention aims to properly execute the continuous effect by ending the continuous effect when a hit occurs even during the continuous effect. .
Furthermore, in addition to the object of the sixth reference invention, the seventh reference invention aims to smoothly end the continuous effect when a hit occurs even during the continuous effect.

(First invention)
In view of the above-mentioned problems, the first invention executes a special symbol variation display related to whether or not a jackpot game is generated once for each game ball winning at a predetermined starting point, and the variation display. Accordingly, there is a case where an effect suggesting the possibility of occurrence of a jackpot game may be executed, and there is a single effect pattern that represents a single effect that is an effect that is completed between one change display. Triggered by a recorded single effect pattern table, a continuous effect pattern table in which a continuous effect pattern representing a continuous effect that is an effect that continues over a plurality of variable displays, a random number generating means, and a winning at the start opening A winning determination random number extracting means for extracting a winning determination random number from the random number generating means, a winning determination means for determining whether or not to generate a jackpot game using the winning determination random number, and the winning determination One of a special symbol selection means for selecting a special symbol according to the determination result by the determination means by lottery, and a setting state indicating that the continuous performance is actually being executed or a non-setting state indicating that it is not being executed A continuous effect flag that takes a state; a flag determining unit that determines the state of the continuous effect flag; and whether or not to execute an effect when the flag determining unit determines that the continuous effect flag is not set. The determination result by the effect execution determination means, the continuous effect determination random number extraction means for extracting the continuous effect determination random number from the random number generation means prior to the determination of whether to start the continuous effect, and the determination result by the effect execution determination means If it is affirmative, the continuous production determination means for determining whether or not to start the continuous production from the variation display using the continuous production determination random number, and the continuous production determination An effect pattern selection that selects a continuous effect pattern from the continuous effect pattern table when a positive determination is made by a stage and selects a single effect pattern from the single effect pattern table when a negative determination is made Means, a flag setting means for changing the continuous effect flag to a set state when a continuous effect pattern is selected by the effect pattern selecting means, a special symbol display means for variably displaying the special symbol, and the flag determining means When it is determined that the continuous effect flag is in the set state, an effect according to the continuous effect pattern selected when the continuous effect flag is in the set state is displayed along with the variation display of the special symbol. And when it is determined by the flag determining means that the continuous effect flag is not set, and When the determination by the effect execution determination means is affirmative, an effect display that displays the effect according to the continuous effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selection means or the single effect pattern along with the variation display of the special symbol. Means for determining whether or not the continuous effect flag has consumed the required number of variable displays when the flag determining means determines that the continuous effect flag is in the set state, and A flag canceling unit for changing the continuous effect flag to a non-set state when the determination by the continuous effect end determining unit is affirmative, and the single effect pattern table has a plurality of single effect patterns, The effect pattern table is characterized by having a plurality of continuous effect patterns.

(First Reference Invention)
The first reference invention executes a special symbol variation display related to the presence or absence of jackpot game for each winning of a game ball to a predetermined starting port 14, and along with the variation display, A ball game machine 10 in which an effect suggesting the possibility of the occurrence of a jackpot game may be executed, and a single effect pattern representing a single effect that is an effect that is completed between one variation display is recorded A single effect pattern table 71, a continuous effect pattern table 72 in which a continuous effect pattern representing a continuous effect that is an effect that continues over a plurality of variable displays, a random number generating means 31, and a winning to the start port 14 are awarded. The hit determination random number extraction means 32 for extracting a hit determination random number from the random number generation means 31 when triggered, the hit determination means 37 for determining whether or not to generate a big hit game using the hit determination random number, and the hit The special symbol selection means 40 for selecting a special symbol according to the determination result by the determination means 37 by lottery, and either a setting state indicating that the continuous effect is actually executed or a non-setting state indicating that it is not being executed The continuous effect flag 62 that takes the state of the above, the flag determining means 34 for determining the state of the continuous effect flag 62, and the effect when the flag determining means 34 determines that the continuous effect flag 62 is in the non-set state Effect execution determination means 36 for determining whether to execute the continuous production determination random number extraction means 41 for extracting the continuous effect determination random number from the random number generation means 31 prior to the determination of whether to start the continuous effect, If the determination result by the effect execution determination means 36 is affirmative, the continuous effect determination means 42 for determining whether to start the continuous effect from the variable display using the continuous effect determination random number, When a positive determination is made by the continuous effect determination means 42, a continuous effect pattern is selected from the continuous effect pattern table 72, and when a negative determination is made, a single effect pattern is selected from the single effect pattern table 71. Effect pattern selecting means 44, flag setting means 45 for changing the continuous effect flag 62 to a set state when a continuous effect pattern is selected by the effect pattern selecting means 44, and variably displaying the special symbol When the special effect display means 49 and the flag determination means 34 determine that the continuous effect flag 62 is set, the continuous effect pattern selected when the continuous effect flag 62 is set is changed to the continuous effect pattern selected. The produced effect is displayed along with the variation display of the special symbol, and the continuous effect flag 62 is not set by the flag discriminating means 34. If the determination by the effect execution determination means 36 is affirmative and the effect according to the continuous effect pattern or the single effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selection means 44 is When the special effect display means 50 displays in accordance with the variation display of the special symbol and the flag determination means 34 determines that the continuous effect flag 62 is in the set state, the continuous effect uses the required number of variable displays. And a continuous effect end determining unit 47 for determining whether or not it has been performed, and a flag releasing unit 48 for changing the continuous effect flag 62 to a non-set state when the determination by the continuous effect end determining unit 47 is affirmative. It is characterized by that.

The “big hit game” refers to a game that may give a player a greater profit than a normal game. For example, in a normal game, a closed winning prize opening is opened for a certain period of time and a certain number of times, and a game in which more prize balls than usual are awarded by winning in this winning prize slot corresponds to a jackpot game.
“Special design” means numbers (Arabic numerals, Chinese numerals, etc.), letters (alphabet letters, etc.), other symbols (arrows, stars, etc.) or specific patterns (fruits such as cherries, cartoon characters, etc.) or abstract It consists of “symbols” represented by typical patterns (explosion, light emission, lightning, etc.), and directly represents whether or not a jackpot game occurs. Special symbols are usually composed of three-digit numbers, etc. Among them, a specific combination, for example, the same number in all three digits, indicates that a jackpot game will occur. Other than that, it is a “losing pattern”. This special symbol is usually often displayed as an image on the liquid crystal screen 12 or the like, but may be drawn on the surface of an actual object, such as a reel of a slot machine.

“Variation display” means that a special symbol is finally displayed in a stopped state after a transition from one symbol to another. The “stop” here does not necessarily mean only a state in which it is physically completely stopped. Therefore, a state in which a certain symbol itself is repeatedly enlarged and reduced, and so-called “swing fluctuation” displayed so that the symbol appears to be shaken are also included in this “stop”. The variation display that is completed when one game ball wins the start opening 14 is referred to as “one variation display”.
“Direction” refers to video expression or audio expression that suggests the possibility of occurrence of a jackpot game, or a combination thereof. The video expression here refers to visual expression including not only an image but also a blinking lamp.

The effects include a “single effect” that is completed during one variation display, and a “continuous effect” that is continued and completed over a plurality of variable displays. In addition, a combination of image data and audio data necessary for executing each of a plurality of types of effects is referred to as an “effect pattern”. An effect pattern that represents a single effect is referred to as a “single effect pattern”, and an effect pattern that represents a continuous effect is referred to as a “continuous effect pattern”.
The “single effect pattern table” refers to a data table storing a plurality of types of single effect patterns as data. For example, a part of the game data of the ball game machine 10 stored in the storage device such as the ROM 70 can be used as the single effect pattern table 71. Even if the single effect pattern itself is actually recorded in the single effect pattern table 71, the single effect pattern stored in another device (for example, another storage area on the ROM 70) is actually stored. Either a symbol for identification (for example, an address on a memory) may be recorded.

The “continuous effect pattern table” refers to a data table that stores a plurality of types of continuous effect patterns as data. For example, a part of the game data of the ball game machine 10 stored in the storage device such as the ROM 70 can be used as the continuous effect pattern table 72. Even if the continuous production pattern itself is actually recorded in this continuous production pattern table 72, the continuous production pattern actually stored in another device (for example, another storage area on the ROM 70) is stored. Either a symbol for identification (for example, an address on a memory) may be recorded.
“Random number generating means” means means for generating a random number. Here, the “random number” includes not only a random number having a mathematical meaning but also a numerical value that can function as a random number because the extraction timing is random even if the generation is regular. For example, a device that repeatedly and cumulatively counts numbers from 0 to 16383 by about 7 million times per second using an oscillation circuit can be used as the random number generating means 31. Further, in the control program of the ball game machine 10, for example, when a numerical value from 0 to 319 is added at every software reset, this numerical value can also be used as a random number. In this case, a control unit such as the CPU 30 that controls the ball game machine 10 functions as the random number generating means 31.

The “winning determination random number extracting means” means means for extracting a numerical value indicated by the random number generating means 31 as a winning determination random number after the time when the winning at the start port 14 is recognized. The “winning determination random number” refers to a random number used in a lottery regarding whether or not a big hit game has occurred. It is possible to cause the CPU 30 that controls the ball game machine 10 to execute a predetermined part of the control program so as to function as the hit determination random number extraction means 32.
“Winning determination means” refers to means for determining whether or not a big hit game has occurred using the winning determination random number. The determination by the hit determination means 37 is executed by referring to the random number as a so-called probability table, or by determining whether the random number is a specific value, Either is acceptable. It is possible to cause the CPU 30 that controls the ball game machine 10 to execute a predetermined part of the control program so as to function as the hit determination means 37. Here, a state in which the winning determination means 37 determines that a big hit game is generated is referred to as “winning”, and a state in which other determinations are determined is referred to as “losing”.

The “special symbol selection means” refers to a means for selecting a special symbol type by lottery according to whether or not a jackpot game has occurred. The “lottery” here is preferably a lottery by referring to a predetermined random number in a so-called probability table. The special symbol selection means 40 can be made to function by causing the CPU 30 that controls the ball game machine 10 to execute a predetermined part of the control program.
The “continuous effect flag” is a parameter indicating whether or not a continuous effect is actually being executed. The continuous effect flag 62 takes one of a “set state” and a “non-set state”. For example, the set state can be “1” and the non-set state can be “0”. The continuous effect flag 62 is stored in the RAM 60, which is a temporary storage device, for example.

“Flag determining means” means means for determining whether the continuous effect flag 62 is in a set state or a non-set state. For example, the continuous effect flag 62 is compared with the value of the set state, and if they are equal, it is determined that the continuous effect flag 62 is in the set state. On the other hand, if they are not equal, it is determined that the continuous effect flag 62 is in a non-set state. It is possible to cause the CPU 30 that controls the ball game machine 10 to execute a predetermined part of the control program so as to function as the flag determination means 34.
“Production execution determination means” refers to means for determining whether or not to execute the performance itself. The determination performed by the effect execution determining means 36 is executed only when the flag determining means 34 determines that the continuous effect flag 62 is not set. It is possible to cause the CPU 30 that controls the ball game machine 10 to execute a predetermined part of the control program so as to function as the effect execution determination means 36.

“Continuous effect determination random number extraction means” means means for extracting a numerical value indicated by the random number generation means 31 as a continuous effect determination random number prior to determination by the following continuous effect determination means 42. The “continuous effect determination random number” refers to a random number used for determining whether or not to perform a continuous effect. It is possible to cause the CPU 30 that controls the ball game machine 10 to execute a predetermined part of the control program so as to function as the continuous production determination random number extraction means 41.
The hit determination random number extraction means 32 and the continuous effect determination random number extraction means 41 may extract the hit determination random number and the continuous effect determination random number from the common random number generation means 31, respectively, or generate separate random numbers. Any extraction from the means 31 is possible. However, when extracting random numbers from the common random number generating means 31, it is desirable that the extraction timings are different. Furthermore, the continuous production determination random number may be extracted only when it is necessary to determine whether or not to execute the continuous production, and for example, every time the start opening 14 is won regardless of whether or not it is necessary. It may be either.

  “Continuous effect determination means” means that when the determination result by the effect execution determination means 36 is affirmative, that is, when it is determined that an effect is to be executed, lottery using the continuous effect determination random number is performed. Means for determining whether or not to execute a continuous performance. That is, when the continuous effect flag 62 is in the set state, since the continuous effect is actually being executed, it is not necessary to operate the continuous effect determining means 42. Further, even if the continuous effect flag 62 is not set, it is not necessary to operate the continuous effect determination means 42 when the effect is not executed. It is possible to cause the CPU 30 that controls the ball game machine 10 to execute a predetermined part of the control program so as to function as the continuous effect determination means 42.

“Production pattern selection means” means that a continuous production pattern is selected by lottery from the continuous production pattern table 72 when the determination result by the continuous production determination unit 42 is affirmative, and if negative, Means for selecting a single effect pattern from the single effect pattern table 71 by lottery. Here, the “lottery” is the same as the special symbol selecting means 40. It is possible to cause the CPU 30 that controls the ball game machine 10 to execute a predetermined part of the control program so as to function as the effect pattern selection means 44.
“Flag setting means” means means for changing the continuous effect flag 62 from the non-set state to the set state when the continuous effect pattern is selected by the effect pattern selecting means 44. The flag setting means 45 can be made to function by causing the CPU 30 that controls the ball game machine 10 to execute a predetermined part of the control program.

The “special symbol display means” means means for variably displaying the special symbol selected by the special symbol selection means 40 by a device that displays an image using liquid crystal, a 7-segment light emitting diode, a dot matrix light emitting diode, or the like. The special symbol display means 49 can be made to function by causing the CPU 30 that controls the ball game machine 10 to execute a predetermined part of the control program.
The “effect display means” is an “effect” that is an image having a certain story in addition to the above-mentioned special symbol variation display by a device that displays an image using a liquid crystal, a 7-segment light emitting diode, a dot matrix light emitting diode, or the like. Means to display. The effect display means 50 may be a separate device from the special symbol display means 49 or may be a common device. When a common device is used, it is possible to divide a screen for displaying an image, display a special symbol in a part of the screen, and display an effect in another part at the same time. It is also possible to switch between special symbol variation display and production display as appropriate, for example, switching to production display on the screen during the special symbol variation display without dividing the screen. It is.

  The effect display means 50 continues according to the continuous effect pattern selected when the continuous effect flag 62 is set when the flag determining means 34 determines that the continuous effect flag 62 is set. The continuous production in the middle is displayed. On the other hand, when it is determined by the flag determining means 34 that the continuous effect flag 62 is not set and when the determination by the effect execution determining means 36 is affirmative, the effect pattern selecting means 44 An effect is displayed according to the selected continuous effect pattern or single effect pattern. Incidentally, when it is determined that the continuous effect flag 62 is in the non-set state by the flag determining means 34 and the determination by the effect execution determining means 36 is negative, the effect is naturally displayed. Absent. It is possible to cause the CPU 30 that controls the ball game machine 10 to execute a predetermined part of the control program to function as the effect display means 50.

“Continuous effect end determination means” means means for determining whether or not the required number of variable displays has been consumed when the flag determination means 34 determines that the continuous effect flag 62 is in the set state. For example, a parameter for counting the number of times of variable display is provided, and this parameter is compared with the number of times of variable display required for the continuous effect pattern. It becomes possible to do. It is possible to cause the CPU 30 that controls the ball game machine 10 to execute a predetermined part of the control program so as to function as the continuous production end determination means 47.
“Flag release means” refers to means for changing the continuous effect flag 62 from the set state to the non-set state when the continuous effect end determination unit 47 determines that the continuous effect has ended. It is possible to cause the CPU 30 that controls the ball game machine 10 to execute a predetermined part of the control program so as to function as the flag release means 48.

Hereinafter, the operation of the ball game machine 10 according to the present invention will be described in different cases according to the state of the continuous effect flag 62 with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
First, regardless of the state of the continuous performance flag 62, if there is a winning at the starting port 14 (S100), the winning determination random number extracting means 32 extracts the winning determination random number from the random number generating means 31 (S110), and this winning determination It is determined whether the hit determination means 37 is “win” or “lost” using a random number (S120). Subsequently, a special symbol according to the result of this determination is selected by lottery by the special symbol selecting means 40 (S120).
In addition to the extraction of the winning determination random number, the continuous effect determination random number extraction means 41 extracts the continuous effect determination random number from the random number generation means 31 when a winning is made at the start port 14 (S110). It should be noted that the extraction of the continuous performance determination random number is not necessarily performed at the stage shown in S110, and may be performed before the stage shown in S160 described later.

(1) When the continuous production flag is not set When the continuous production is not actually executed, the continuous production flag 62 is in the non-set state. In this case, since the flag determining means 34 determines that the continuous effect flag 62 is not set (S130), the effect execution determining means 36 is operated next. That is, the production execution determination means 36 determines whether or not to produce an effect by lottery (S140).
(1-1) When no production is performed When the production execution determination unit 36 determines that the production is not performed, the special symbol display unit 49 displays the variation of the special symbol, but the production display unit 50 Does not operate (S150).

(1-2) When the production is performed When the production execution determination unit 36 determines that the production is to be performed, the continuous production determination unit 42 operates next. That is, the continuous effect determination means 42 determines by lottery whether or not to execute the continuous effect starting from the variable display, using the continuous effect determination random number (S160).
(1-2-1) When performing a single effect When it is determined that a continuous effect is not to be executed, the effect pattern selection means 44 selects a single effect pattern from the single effect pattern table 71 by lottery. (S165). Then, as the special symbol display means 49 displays the variation of the special symbol, the effect display means 50 displays the effect according to the single effect pattern (S170).

(1-2-2) When performing a continuous effect On the other hand, when it is determined that a continuous effect is to be executed, the effect pattern selecting means 44 selects a continuous effect pattern from the continuous effect pattern table 72 by lottery. (S175). Next, the continuous effect flag 62 is set by the flag setting means 45 (S180). Then, as the special symbol display means 49 displays the variation of the special symbol, the effect display means 50 displays the effect according to the continuous effect pattern (S185).
At the time of variable display and continuous production, the continuous production end determination means 47 determines whether or not the continuous production ends with the variable display (S190). In this case, since the continuous production has just started, the flag is released. There is no activation of the means 48.

(2) When the continuous performance flag is in the set state When the continuous performance is actually being executed, the continuous performance flag 62 is in the set state. In this case, since the flag determination unit 34 determines that the continuous effect flag 62 is in the set state (S130), the continuous effect determination unit 42 does not operate. That is, even if the continuous production determination random number is extracted, it is not used.
Then, as the special symbol display means 49 displays the variation of the special symbol, the effect display means 50 displays the effect according to the continuous effect pattern (see S175) selected at the time of the previous winning or not (S185). ).

Next, it is determined by the continuous production end determination means 47 whether or not the continuous production ends with the variable display (S190). If not finished, the flag releasing means 48 is not operated. On the other hand, when the process is ended, the continuous effect flag 62 is changed to the non-set state by the flag releasing means 48 (S195).
As described above, it is possible to perform a continuous effect over a plurality of special symbol fluctuation displays.
(Second Reference Invention)
Further, in addition to the features of the first reference invention, the second reference invention is a hit determination related to the winning with respect to the winning at the starting port 14 when the variable symbol display means 49 is actually executing the variable display. A random number holding means 61 that can hold a random number; In the determination by the hit determination means 37 using the held hit determination random number, the hold random number determination means 33 further determines that at least one hit determination random number is held in the hit determination random number hold means 61 It is characterized in that it is determined whether or not to start the continuous production only when it is performed.

“Hold” refers to saving a winning determination random number extracted in response to a winning at the starting port 14 during a special symbol variation display. That is, after the variation display is completed, the variation display of the special symbol is executed again based on the hit determination random number related to the suspension. Note that an upper limit (for example, four) is normally set for this hold.
The “hit determination random number holding means” means a means for holding the hit determination random number extracted during the variation display of the special symbol. The hit determination random number holding means 61 holds the hit determination random numbers up to the upper limit number in a format in which the extraction order can be recognized. For example, a RAM 60 for temporarily storing game data can be used as the hit determination random number holding means 61.

“Holding random number determination means” means means for determining the number of hit determination random numbers held in the hit determination random number holding means 61. It is possible to cause the CPU 30 that controls the bullet ball game machine 10 to execute a predetermined part of the control program so as to function as the reserved random number determination means 33.
The operation of the ball game machine 10 according to the present invention is common in many parts to that of the ball game machine 10 according to the first reference invention, but only the differences will be described.
In the ball game machine 10 according to the present invention, the steps shown in S100 and S110 in FIG. 1 are actually executed as independent processes from the steps shown in S120 and thereafter. In the stage shown in S120, the first hit determination random number held in the hit determination random number holding means 61 is used, and the used hit determination random number is then deleted.

  In the flowchart (FIG. 2) showing an example of the action of the ball game machine 10 according to the present invention, the stage shown in S155 is interposed between S140 and S160 in the flowchart of FIG. That is, in the stage shown in S140, if it is determined by the performance execution determining means 36 that the effect is to be performed, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S155. Whether or not the hit determination random number is held is determined by the hold random number determination means 33. If this determination is affirmative (that is, if the winning determination random number is further suspended), the process proceeds to the stage shown in S160, and it is determined whether or not the continuous effect is executed by the continuous effect determination means 42. It is supposed to be. On the other hand, in the negative case (that is, when the hit determination random number is not held any longer), the process proceeds to the step shown in S165, and the single effect pattern is selected by the effect pattern selection means 44.

As described above, the continuous effect can be smoothly executed by enabling the continuous effect only when the number of reserved balls is plural.
(Third Reference Invention)
Furthermore, in the third reference invention, in addition to the features of the second reference invention, the continuous performance determination means 42 determines whether or not to start the continuous performance only when the hit determination means 37 makes a negative determination. It is characterized by determining whether or not.
In other words, if the win display is “winning”, a big win game is generated thereafter, and therefore, during the big win game, the special symbol is usually not displayed in a variable display. Therefore, in the ball game machine 10 according to the present invention, continuous fluctuation can be started from the fluctuation display only in the case of “losing”.

The operation of the ball game machine 10 according to the present invention is common in many parts to that of the ball game machine 10 according to the second reference invention, but only the differences will be described.
In the flowchart (FIG. 3) showing an example of the operation of the ball game machine 10 according to the present invention, the stage shown in S152 is interposed between S140 and S155 in the flowchart of FIG. That is, in the stage shown in S140, when it is determined by the production execution determination means 36 that the production is performed, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S152, and the result of the hit determination in the previous stage shown in S120 is the continuous production determination means. Referenced by 42. Then, if “losing” has been determined, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S155, and the holding random number determination means 33 determines whether or not there is a hit determination random number related to holding. On the other hand, in the case of “winning”, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S165, and the effect pattern selecting means 44 selects the single effect pattern.

As described above, the continuous effect can be executed from the change only when the winning determination unit 37 determines that the winning is “losing”, so that the continuous effect is started at an appropriate timing. .
(Fourth Reference Invention)
Further, in addition to the features of the third reference invention, the fourth reference invention is not yet subjected to the determination by the hit determination means 37 among the hit determination random numbers held in the hit determination random number holding means 61. When there is a hold per hit determination means 51 for determining whether or not it is related to a jackpot game occurrence, and the continuous performance determination means 42 is positive when the determination by the hold per hit determination means 51 is affirmative It is characterized by determining whether or not to start a continuous production only.

The “holding hit determination means” refers to means for executing the same determination as the hit determination means 37 in advance for the hit determination random number waiting for the determination by the hit determination means 37. It is possible to cause the CPU 30 that controls the ball and ball game machine 10 to execute a predetermined part of the control program so as to function as the on-hold determination unit 51. In addition, the hit determination means 37 can also function as the hold hit determination means 51.
The operation of the ball game machine 10 according to the present invention is common in many parts to that of the ball game machine 10 according to the third reference invention, but only the differences will be described.
In the flowchart (FIG. 4) showing an example of the operation of the ball game machine 10 according to the present invention, the stage shown in S157 is interposed between S155 and S160 in the flowchart of FIG. That is, in the stage shown in S155, when it is determined by the hold random number determination means 33 that the hit determination random number is further held, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S157, and at this stage the hold hit determination means 51 It is determined whether the hit determination random number related to the hold is related to “win” or “lost”. If this determination is affirmative (if the winning determination random number relating to the hold is “winning”), the process proceeds to the stage shown in S160, and the determination by the continuous effect determination means 42 is executed. On the other hand, in the negative case (when the hit determination random number related to the hold is “losing”), the process proceeds to the stage shown in S165, and the effect pattern selecting means 44 selects the single effect pattern.

As described above, the continuous effect can be started from the variable display only in the case of “winning” in the variable display after the variable display, and the expectation for the continuous effect is improved.
(Fifth Reference Invention)
Furthermore, in addition to the features of the third reference invention, the fifth reference invention is not yet subjected to the determination by the hit determination means 37 among the hit determination random numbers held in the hit determination random number holding means 61. For a thing, when it is determined whether or not it is related to the occurrence of a jackpot game, and when the positive determination is made by the continuous effect determination means 42, the effect pattern selection means 44 Is characterized in that a continuous effect pattern according to the determination result by the hold per hit determination means 51 is selected from the continuous effect pattern table 72.

The “holding hit determination means” refers to means for executing the same determination as the hit determination means 37 in advance for the hit determination random number waiting for the determination by the hit determination means 37. It is possible to cause the CPU 30 that controls the ball and ball game machine 10 to execute a predetermined part of the control program so as to function as the on-hold determination unit 51. In addition, the hit determination means 37 can also function as the hold hit determination means 51.
The operation of the ball game machine 10 according to the present invention is common in many parts to that of the ball game machine 10 according to the third reference invention, but only the differences will be described.
In the flowchart (FIG. 5) showing an example of the action of the ball game machine 10 according to the present invention, the stage shown in S172 is interposed between S160 and S175 in the flowchart of FIG. That is, in the stage shown in S160, when it is determined by the effect execution determining means 36 that the continuous effect is to be executed, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S172. It is determined whether all hit determination random numbers are related to “win” or “lost”. Then, in the stage shown in S175, the continuous effect pattern is selected by the effect pattern selection means 44 in accordance with the combination of “win” and “lost”.

  Here, in the ball game machine 10 according to the present invention, whether or not the continuous effect is executed does not depend on whether or not the winning determination random number related to the holding is “winning”. Therefore, assuming that, for example, up to 4 winning judgment random numbers can be held, the continuous production is not continued after the “winning” case as described above. Therefore, the possible continuous production patterns are “losing, losing”, “ Loss, Win, Loss, Loss, Loss, Loss, Loss, Win, Loss, Loss, Loss, Loss and Loss, Loss, Loss, Win. The hold hit determination means 51 determines which of these patterns the hit determination random number related to hold corresponds, and the effect pattern selection means 44 selects a continuous effect pattern according to this determination.

As described above, by selecting a continuous performance pattern according to whether the winning determination random number related to the hold is “win” or “losing”, it is possible to select an appropriate performance pattern according to the game situation thereafter. .
(Sixth reference invention)
Further, in the sixth reference invention, in addition to the features of the third, fourth or fifth reference invention, the continuous effect end judging means 47 is judged by the hit judging means 37 that a big hit game has occurred. In some cases, a positive determination is made.
The operation of the ball game machine 10 according to the present invention is common in many parts to that of the ball game machine 10 according to the third reference invention, but only the differences will be described.

  In the flowchart (FIG. 6) showing an example of the operation of the ball game machine 10 according to the present invention, the step shown in S192 is provided after S190 in the flowchart of FIG. That is, in the stage shown in S190, if the continuous effect end judging means 47 determines that the required number of fluctuation displays has not been consumed, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S192. At this stage, the continuous effect end determination means 47 further determines whether or not the variation display is “winning”. If it is “winning”, the routine proceeds to S195, where the flag releasing means 48 is operated. On the other hand, in the case of “losing”, the continuous performance flag 62 is kept in the set state. The operation of the flag release means 48 does not need to be executed immediately after the determination in the stage shown in S190 or S192, and the special symbol variation display after the end of the jackpot game associated with the “winning” is started. It may be executed at any point in time.

Since the continuous performance is started only in the case of “losing” in the step shown in S152 of FIG. 3, there is a possibility that a positive determination is shown in the step shown in S192. This is limited to the case where an affirmative determination is indicated at the stage shown in FIG.
From the above, even if a continuous effect is “winning”, the continuous effect is properly executed by terminating the continuous effect.
(Seventh Reference Invention)
Further, in the seventh reference invention, in addition to the features of the sixth reference invention, the continuous performance pattern is composed of performance units for each variable display, and a jackpot game is generated in each performance unit. A winning effect unit corresponding to a special symbol and a lost effect unit corresponding to a special symbol indicating that no jackpot game is generated are prepared, and the winning effect unit ends the continuous effect pattern and the lost effect unit Among the above, the one related to the last variation display ends the continuous production pattern, and the unit other than the last variation display among the loss production units is continued to the next production unit. .

“Production unit” refers to game data representing an effect executed for each number of times of variable display in one continuous effect pattern. For example, when a certain continuous effect pattern requires three times of variable display, the continuous effect pattern is composed of “first effect unit”, “second effect unit”, and “third effect unit”. The Rukoto.
The “winning effect unit” refers to game data representing an effect displayed when a winning symbol is variably displayed among individual effect units.
The “losing effect unit” refers to game data representing an effect displayed when the lost symbol is variably displayed among the individual effect units.

That is, for each effect unit, a hit effect unit and a lost effect unit are prepared, and either one is selected according to the result of the hit determination.
Each continuous production pattern has a certain story, and the story is composed of production units. For example, if a certain continuous production pattern needs to be changed three times as described above, the beginning of the story is presented in the first production unit, the story develops in the second production unit, and the third production The story will be completed in production units.
Furthermore, the “Lose production unit” completes the story for those related to the final production unit, but for those related to other production units, the beginning of the story is presented or the story is developed. It is something to let you. On the other hand, the “winning effect unit” completes the story regardless of the number of times the continuous effect pattern needs to be displayed.

In addition, in the ball game machine 10 according to the third reference invention, since the continuous production is started from the case of “losing”, only the losing production unit is sufficient as the first production unit. There is no need to prepare.
In the ball game machine 10 according to the present invention, at the stage shown in S175, the effect pattern selecting means 44 refers to the number of times the variation display is performed in the selected continuous effect pattern, and “ ”Or“ losing ”,“ winning effect unit ”or“ losing effect unit ”is selected from the corresponding number of effect units.
As described above, even when “winning” occurs during the continuous performance, the continuous performance can be smoothly ended.

With the above configuration, each invention has the following effects.
That is, according to the description of the first aspect of the invention, the continuous effect is smoothly executed by enabling the continuous effect in which the story develops over a plurality of variable displays only when the holding ball is provided. It is possible to increase interest in games.
Further, according to the description of the first reference invention, it is possible to increase the interest of the game by enabling a continuous production in which the story develops over a plurality of variation displays.
Further, according to the description of the second reference invention, in addition to the effects of the first reference invention, the continuous effect can be smoothly executed by enabling the continuous effect only when the number of reserved balls is plural. It becomes possible.

Further, according to the description of the third reference invention, in addition to the effect of the second reference invention, the continuous effect can be executed from the fluctuation only in the case of so-called “losing”, so that the continuous effect can be performed at an appropriate timing. Can be started.
Further, according to the description of the fourth reference invention, in addition to the effect of the third reference invention, by enabling a continuous production from the change only when a jackpot game occurs in the holding ball after the change, It is possible to improve the expectation for the continuous performance.
Furthermore, according to the description of the fifth reference invention, in addition to the effects of the third reference invention, it is possible to select an appropriate pattern by selecting a pattern of continuous performance according to whether or not the number of reserved balls is correct.

Further, according to the description of the sixth reference invention, in addition to the effect of the third reference invention, when a win occurs even during the continuous production, the continuous production can be appropriately executed by terminating the continuous production. It becomes possible.
Further, according to the description of the seventh reference invention, in addition to the effect of the sixth reference invention, when a win occurs even during the continuous production, the continuous production can be smoothly ended.

An example of the operation of the first reference invention is shown in a flowchart. An example of the operation of the second reference invention is shown in a flowchart. An example of the action of the third reference invention is shown in a flowchart. An example of the operation of the fourth reference invention is shown in a flowchart. An example of the action of the fifth reference invention is shown in a flowchart. An example of the action of the sixth reference invention is shown in a flowchart. The board surface of the ball game machine which concerns on the 1st and 2nd embodiment of this invention is shown with the front view. The function of the ball game machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention is shown in a block diagram. The addition process of the number of reservation balls in the bullet ball game machine concerning the 1st and 2nd embodiment of the present invention is shown with the flowchart. A part of process regarding the hit determination, the selection of a special symbol, and the selection of an effect pattern in the ball game machine according to the first and second embodiments of the present invention is shown in a flowchart. A part of process regarding the hit determination, the selection of a special symbol, and the selection of an effect pattern in the ball game machine according to the first and second embodiments of the present invention is shown in a flowchart. The function of the ball game machine which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention is shown with the block diagram.

Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
(1) First Embodiment In the first embodiment of the present invention, a winning effect unit and a lost effect unit are prepared for each number of fluctuations in a continuous effect pattern. However, as will be described later, only the lost production unit is provided for the first fluctuation.
(1-1) Board Surface Appearance The ball game machine 10 according to the first embodiment has a board surface 11 as shown in a front view in FIG.
A liquid crystal screen 12 is provided almost at the center of the board surface 11. The liquid crystal screen 12 functions as a special symbol display means 49 that variably displays a combination of three-digit symbols (each symbol is selected from 10 kinds of numbers from 0 to 9) (referred to as “special symbol”). . It also functions as an effect display means 50 for displaying effects associated with the special symbol variation display. Above that, four special symbol holding lamps 13, 13, 13, 13 are provided.

Below the special symbol display device, there is provided a start opening 14 through which a game ball can be won. An expansion device 15 is provided at the opening of the start port 14 to expand the width of the game ball passage at the start port 14. This expansion device 15 normally keeps enough width so that one game ball can pass but two cannot pass at the same time, but when this expands, it will be shaped to pick up a falling game ball and start as a result The winning to the mouth 14 becomes easy.
An attacker unit 16 is attached to the lower side of the start opening 14, and a big winning opening 17 that is opened at the time of a jackpot game, which will be described later, is provided at the front center thereof. In addition, at the left and right ends of the attacker unit 16, winning holes 21 and 21 that are opened upward are provided. Further, a normal symbol display device 18 using a 7-segment light emitting diode is provided on the front surface of the attacker unit 16, and four normal symbol holding lamps 19, 19, 19, 19 are provided around it. The ordinary symbol display device 18 displays “ordinary symbols” composed of “5”, “6”, and “7”.

On the left side of the liquid crystal screen 12, a change start gate 20 through which a game ball can pass is provided. The fluctuation start gate 20 is provided with a sensor (not shown) that detects the passage of the game ball.
In addition, winning openings 21 and 21 that are opened upward are also provided on the left and right sides of the start opening 14. Further, at the lower end of the board surface 11, there is provided an out port 22 through which game balls that could not be won in any of the start port 14, the big winning port 17, and the winning ports 21, 21, 21, 21 are discharged. ing.
In addition to the above, the board surface 11 is provided with windmills and nails (not shown) for changing the falling direction of the game ball. The front surface of the board surface 11 is covered with a glass plate (not shown). Further, below the board surface 11, a ball handle, a prize ball payout exit, a ball tray and the like (not shown) are located.

(1-2) Outline of Game The outline of the game in this bullet ball game machine 10 is as follows.
First, a player operates the bullet ball handle so that the game ball is bulleted on the board surface 11. The game ball falls on the board surface 11 while being in contact with the windmill or the nail. Then, when winning in any of the winning openings 21, 21, 21, and 21 in the process of falling, 5 winning balls are paid out to the player from the winning ball payout exit.
When the game ball passes through the fluctuation start gate 20, the normal symbol starts to be displayed on the normal symbol display device 18 in response to the passage signal. In a normal case, when 30 seconds have elapsed since the start of the variable display, a predetermined normal symbol determined at the start of the variable display is stopped and displayed. When the stop-displayed normal symbol is “7”, the magnifying device 15 operates for 0.5 seconds, and the width of the starting port 14 is expanded, so that winning at the starting port 14 becomes easy. Further, when the normal symbol to be stopped and displayed is “5” or “6”, the magnifying device 15 does not operate.

If the game ball passes the fluctuation start gate 20 while the normal symbol variation display is being executed in the normal symbol display device 18, the normal symbol variation display related to the passing is the current symbol of the normal symbol currently being executed. It is held until the end of the variable display or the end of the operation of the enlargement device 15. One normal symbol holding lamp 19 is lit to indicate that the fluctuation display of the normal symbol is held. Up to four normal symbol holding lamps 19 can be lit as described above. In other words, up to four normal symbols can be suspended for the normal symbol related to the passage to the variation start gate 20.
When a winning is made at the start opening 14, in addition to paying out five prize balls to the player from the prize ball outlet, the liquid crystal screen 12 functions as a special symbol display means 49, and a variable display of symbols is displayed. Is started. Simultaneously with this variable display, the liquid crystal screen 12 also functions as the effect display means 50 and may display the effect. As a result of this variable display, if the special symbol that is stopped and displayed is a combination related to the same symbol in all three digits (referred to as a “winning symbol”), it will be a “big hit game” and is usually closed. 17 opens. When there is a prize at the big prize opening 17, 15 prize balls are paid out to the player from the prize ball exit. The big prize winning opening 17 is temporarily closed when either 30 seconds have elapsed after opening or there is a prize of 10 balls. If there is a prize in a V zone (not shown) provided inside the big prize opening 17 while the big prize opening 17 is open, it is opened again. As a result, the opening of the special winning opening 17 can be continued up to 16 times. In addition, when the big winning opening 17 has been opened 16 times, or when there is no winning in the V zone while the big winning opening 17 is opened, the big hit game is ended.

On the other hand, if the special symbol that is stopped and displayed is a combination other than the above winning symbol (referred to as a “losing symbol”) as a result of the variable display accompanying the winning at the start opening 14, no big hit game is generated. The variable display relating to the winning of is again executed.
If the game ball wins the start opening 14 while the special symbol change display is being executed on the liquid crystal screen 12 as the special symbol display means 49, the special symbol change display related to the winning is actually executed. Is held until the end of the change display of the special symbol (or until the end of the jackpot game with the jackpot symbol if the jackpot symbol is displayed as a result of the end of the change display of the special symbol currently being executed). One special symbol holding lamp 13 is lit to indicate that the special symbol variation display is being held. This special symbol holding lamp 13 can be lit up to four as described above. In other words, up to four special symbols can be suspended for passing through the start port 14.

When the jackpot symbol is related to a specific symbol (for example, “7”, etc.), a so-called “probability variation game” occurs after the jackpot game is over. During this probability variation game, the variation time in the normal symbol display device 18 is shortened to 6 seconds and the operation time of the expansion device 15 is extended to 2 seconds. In addition, during this probability variation game, the jackpot occurrence probability itself is also increased.
(1-3) Functional Block Functions related to the hit determination, special symbol selection, and effect pattern selection of the ball game machine 10 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG.

  In the ball game machine 10 according to the present embodiment, the CPU 30 as the processing unit executes the control program recorded in the ROM 70 as the storage unit, thereby controlling the ball game machine 10. As a result, the CPU 30 performs random number generation means 31, hit determination random number extraction means 32, hold random number determination means 33, flag determination means 34, effect execution determination random number extraction means 35, effect execution determination random means 36, hit determination means 37, winning symbol random number extraction. Means 38, loss symbol random number extraction means 39, special symbol selection means 40, continuous effect determination random number extraction means 41, continuous effect determination means 42, effect random number extraction means 43, effect pattern selection means 44, flag setting means 45, effect unit selection Functions as means 46, continuous effect end determination means 47, flag release means 48, special symbol display means 49 and effect display means 50. The ROM 70 also stores various game information required in the process of control by the CPU 30. As part of this game information, a single effect pattern table 71 and a continuous effect pattern table 72 are provided. The RAM 60 functions as the winning determination random number holding means 61 and the continuous effect flag 62 by temporarily storing data generated in the process of control by the CPU 30.

(1-3-1) Single Effect Pattern Table In the single effect pattern table 71, as shown in Table 1 below, there are 10 different effect patterns in the case of “win” and effect patterns in the case of “losing”. Two types are stored.

上記表１中の単独演出パターンに係る演出はいずれも１回の変動表示の間に終了することとなっている。ただし、各単独演出パターンに係る演出に要する時間は必ずしも同一ではない。したがって、その時間の差異は、変動表示を延長又は短縮することで調整される。
（１−３−２）連続演出パターンテーブル
連続演出パターンテーブル72には、下記の表２に示すように、２回の変動表示を要する連続変動パターンが４通り、３回の変動表示を要する連続変動パターンが４通り及び４回の変動表示を要する連続変動パターンが２通り記憶されている。

All of the effects related to the single effect pattern in Table 1 are ended during one fluctuation display. However, the time required for effects related to each individual effect pattern is not necessarily the same. Therefore, the time difference is adjusted by extending or shortening the variable display.
(1-3-2) Continuous production pattern table In the continuous production pattern table 72, as shown in Table 2 below, there are four continuous variation patterns that require two variation displays, and three consecutive variation patterns that require three variations. Four variation patterns and two continuous variation patterns that require four variation displays are stored.

上記表２に示すように、各連続演出パターンはその所要変動表示回数に応じた数の演出単位から構成される。また、各演出単位には、「当たり」の場合に対応する当たり演出単位及び「ハズレ」の場合に対応する演出単位が用意されている。ただし、後述するように連続演出は「ハズレ」の場合からのみ開始されるので、各連続演出パターンの第１回の演出単位には当たり演出単位は存在しない。
各連続演出パターンは、それぞれ異なったストーリーに基づくものである。そのストーリーの具体的な内容は詳述しないが、各演出単位におけるストーリーの傾向は概ね以下のようになっている。

As shown in Table 2, each continuous performance pattern is composed of a number of performance units corresponding to the required number of fluctuation displays. In addition, for each effect unit, a win effect unit corresponding to the “win” case and an effect unit corresponding to the “losing” case are prepared. However, as will be described later, since the continuous effect is started only from the case of “losing”, there is no winning effect unit in the first effect unit of each continuous effect pattern.
Each continuous performance pattern is based on a different story. Although the specific contents of the story are not described in detail, the tendency of the story in each production unit is as follows.

(1-3-2-1) Continuous production pattern 1
(1-1B): Displayed as the lost symbol is variably displayed. The beginning of the story is presented. Continue to (1-2A) or (1-2B).
(1-2A): Displayed as the winning symbol is variably displayed. Following the beginning of (1-1B), a successful ending is presented. The continuous production ends in this production unit.
(1-2B): Displayed as the losing symbol is variably displayed. Following the beginning of (1-1B), the end of the failure is presented. The continuous production ends in this production unit.
The continuous production patterns 2, 3, and 4 are generally the same as described above.

That is, there are two possible story developments for each of the continuous performance patterns 1 to 4.
(1-3-2-2) Continuous production pattern 5
(5-1B): Displayed as the losing symbol is variably displayed. The beginning of the story is presented. Continue to (5-2A) or (5-2B).
(5-2A): Displayed when the winning symbol is variably displayed. Following the beginning of (5-1B), a successful ending is presented. The continuous production ends in this production unit.
(5-2B): Displayed as the losing symbol is variably displayed. Following the beginning of (5-1B), the contents to expand this are presented. Continue to (5-3A) or (5-3B).

(5-3A): Displayed as the winning symbol is variably displayed. Following the development of (5-2B), a successful ending is presented. The continuous production ends in this production unit.
(5-3B): Displayed when the losing symbol is variably displayed. Following the development of (5-2B), the end of the failure is presented. The continuous production ends in this production unit.
The continuous effect patterns 6, 7 and 8 are substantially the same as described above.
That is, for the continuous performance patterns 5 to 8, there are three possible story developments.
(1-3-2-2) Continuous production pattern 9
(9-1B): Displayed as the losing symbol is variably displayed. The beginning of the story is presented. Continue to (9-2A) or (9-2B).

(9-2A): Displayed as the winning symbol is variably displayed. Following the beginning of (9-1B), a successful ending is presented. The continuous production ends in this production unit.
(9-2B): Displayed as the losing symbol is variably displayed. Following the beginning of (9-1B), the contents to expand this are presented. Continue to (9-3A) or (9-3B).
(9-3A): Displayed as the winning symbol is variably displayed. Following the development of (9-2B), a successful ending is presented. The continuous production ends in this production unit.
(9-3B): Displayed as the losing symbol is variably displayed. Following the beginning of (9-2B), the content that further expands this is presented. Continue to (9-4A) or (9-4B).

(9-4A): Displayed as the winning symbol is variably displayed. Following the development of (9-3B), a successful ending is presented. The continuous production ends in this production unit.
(9-4B): Displayed as the losing symbol is variably displayed. Following the development of (9-3B), the end of the failure is presented. The continuous production ends in this production unit.
The continuous effect pattern 10 is substantially the same as described above.
That is, for the continuous production patterns 9 and 10, there are four possible story developments.
(1-3-3) Random number generating means The random number generating means 31 adds a numerical value from 0 to 319 by 1 for each software reset of the control program. However, after 319, it becomes 0 again. Then, a value at a predetermined time (for example, when a winning at the start port 14 is detected) is extracted as a random number. That is, the numerical value generated by the random number generating means 31 is not strictly a “random number” in a mathematical sense, but the extraction timing is considered to be almost random. Can function as a "random number" substantially.

(1-3-4) Hit determination random number extraction means The win determination random number extraction means 32 extracts the numerical value indicated by the random number generation means 31 at the time when the winning of the game ball to the start port 14 is detected as a win determination random number.
(1-3-5) Hit determination random number holding means The hit determination random number holding means 61 holds a maximum of four hit determination random numbers extracted by the hit determination random number extraction means 32 in a format in which the extraction order can be recognized. Is done. In addition, the winning determination random numbers that are held first are used for the winning determination described later, and the used winning determination random numbers are also sequentially deleted.

(1-3-6) Hold Random Number Determination Unit The hold random number determination unit 33 determines the number of hit determination random numbers held in the hit determination random number hold unit 61. The number of hit determination random numbers is displayed on the special symbol holding lamp 13 as the number of lights.
(1-3-7) Continuous Effect Flag The continuous effect flag 62 is a parameter temporarily stored in the RAM 60 and takes an integer value from 0 to 4. Here, the continuous effect flag 62 having a value of 0 indicates that the continuous effect is not actually executed. Further, the continuous performance flag 62 having a value from 1 to 4 indicates how many times the variable display is included in the currently performed continuous performance.

(1-3-8) Flag Discriminating Unit The flag discriminating unit 34 compares the value of the continuous effect flag 62 stored in the RAM 60 with “0” to determine whether or not they are equal.
(1-3-9) Effect Execution Determination Random Number Extraction Unit The effect execution determination random number extraction unit 35 uses the numerical value indicated by the random number generation unit 31 at a predetermined time before determination by the following effect execution determination unit 36 as an effect execution determination random number. Extract as
(1-3-10) Effect Execution Determining Unit The effect execution determining unit 36 determines whether or not to execute an effect based on the value of the effect execution determination random number extracted by the effect execution determination random number extracting unit 35.

(1-3-11) Hit determination means The hit determination means 37 uses the earliest one of the hit determination random numbers held in the hit determination random number hold means 61 to determine whether it is “win” or “lost”. judge. That is, the hit determination random number is compared with 7, and when equal, it is determined as “win”, while when different, it is determined as “lost”.
(1-3-12) Winning Symbol Random Number Extracting Unit The winning symbol random number extracting unit 38 performs the process from the determination of “winning” by the winning determination unit 37 to the selection of a special symbol by the special symbol selecting unit 40 described later. The numerical value indicated by the random number generation means 31 at a predetermined time is extracted as the winning symbol random number extraction means 38. Specifically, the numerical values from 0 to 319 extracted from the random number generating means 31 are converted into numerical values from 0 to 9, and this is used as the winning design random number extracting means 38.

(1-3-13) Lost Symbol Random Number Extracting Unit The lost symbol random number extracting unit 39 is determined from the determination of “lost” by the hit determining unit 37 to the selection of the special symbol by the following special symbol selecting unit 40. The numerical value indicated by the random number generation means 31 at a predetermined time is extracted as the lost symbol random number extraction means 39. Specifically, three numerical values from 0 to 319 extracted from the random number generating means 31 at different timings are converted into numerical values from 0 to 9, respectively. When these three numerical values are all equal, a combination of the three numerical values obtained by replacing one of the three numerical values with another numerical value is used as a lost symbol random number. On the other hand, when at least one of the three numerical values obtained by the conversion is different from the other numerical values, the combination of the three numerical values is used as the lost symbol random number as it is.

(1-3-14) Special Symbol Selection Unit The special symbol selection unit 40 selects the special symbol type according to the determination result of the hit determination unit 37. For example, if the above determination result is “winning”, a “hit symbol” (for example, “777”) having the numerical value of the random number extracted by the winning symbol random number extraction means 38 in any of three digits is a special symbol. Select as. On the other hand, if the determination result is “losing”, a “losing symbol” (for example, “765”, “787”, etc.) having the numerical value of the random number extracted by the losing symbol random number extracting means 39 in each digit is a special symbol. Select as.
(1-3-15) Continuous Production Determination Random Number Extraction Unit The continuous production determination random number extraction unit 41 uses the numerical value indicated by the random number generation unit 31 at a predetermined time until the determination by the following continuous production determination unit 42 as a continuous production determination random number. Extract as

(1-3-16) Continuous Production Determination Unit The continuous production determination unit 42 determines whether or not to execute the continuous production based on the numerical value of the continuous production determination random number extracted by the continuous production determination random number extraction unit 41.
(1-3-17) Effect random number extracting means The effect random number extracting means 43 extracts the numerical value indicated by the random number generating means 31 at a predetermined time until the effect pattern selection means 44 described below selects the effect pattern as an effect random number. .
(1-3-18) Production pattern selection means Production pattern selection means 44, the appropriate single production pattern or continuous production pattern according to the determination result by the hit determination unit 37 and the determination result by the continuous production determination unit 42, Each of the effect random number extraction means 43 selects the effect random number extracted from the individual effect pattern table 71 or the continuous effect pattern table 72.

(1-3-19) Flag setting means The flag setting means 45 sets the value of the continuous effect flag 62 to 1 when the determination result by the continuous effect determination means 42 is affirmative.
(1-3-20) Production Unit Selection Unit When the continuous production pattern is selected, the production unit selection unit 46 selects an appropriate production unit according to the determination result by the hit determination unit 37 and the number of continuous fluctuations. select.
(1-3-21) Continuous Production End Determination Unit The continuous production end determination unit 47 determines whether or not the continuous production has consumed the required number of variable display times. Specifically, referring to the value of the continuous performance flag 62 at that time point, the value is compared with the value of the required number of fluctuation display times to determine whether or not they are equal, or This is determined by determining whether or not an effect related to the hit effect unit is displayed in the variable display.

(1-3-22) Flag Canceling Unit The flag canceling unit 48 sets the value of the continuous effect flag 62 to “0” when the determination result by the continuous effect end determining unit 47 is affirmative.
(1-3-23) Special symbol display means The special symbol display means 49 stops and displays the special symbol selected by the special symbol selection means 40 on the liquid crystal screen 12 through variable display.
(1-3-24) Effect display means The effect display means 50 is selected by the effect unit selection means 46 when the effect pattern selected by the effect pattern selection means 44 and the continuous effect pattern are selected. An effect according to the effect unit is displayed on the liquid crystal screen 12.

Hereinafter, the processing procedure in the ball game machine 10 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. The processing procedure in the ball game machine 10 according to the present embodiment is divided into a hit determination random number holding process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 9 and a process related to special symbols and effects shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. Both processes are executed in parallel at the same time, but the number (K) of held hit determination random numbers is a parameter common to both processes. When K changes in one process, the change also affects the other process.
(1-4-1) Winning determination random number hold process In this process, first, at the stage shown in S200 of FIG. 9, it is determined whether or not the CPU 30 has recognized the winning at the start port 14. If not recognized, the process is terminated, but the process is resumed from this stage immediately after a software reset. On the other hand, if it is recognized, the process proceeds to the step shown in S210.

At the stage shown in S210, the winning determination random number extracting means 32 extracts the numerical value indicated by the random number generating means 31 as the winning determination random number when the winning is recognized. Then, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S220.
At the stage shown in S220, the hit random number determination means 33 makes a hit determination random number currently held in the hit determination random number hold means 61 ("K" in FIGS. 9 and 10; hereinafter referred to as "the number of hold balls"). It is determined whether or not four) are reached. If it has reached, the winning determination random number extracted in the step shown in S210 is not put on hold, and after proceeding to S250 and executing a predetermined prize ball payout process, this process ends. It should be noted that the present process is resumed from the stage shown in S200 immediately after the completion of the present process through a software reset. On the other hand, if the number of reserved balls has not reached 4, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S230.

At the stage shown in S230, the reserved random number judging means 33 adds 1 to the number of held balls. Then, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S240.
In the step shown in S240, the hit determination random number is stored in the hit determination random number holding means 61 so that the order at the time is the lowest. Then, the process proceeds to S250 and a predetermined prize ball payout process is executed, and then the process proceeds to S250 and a predetermined prize ball payout process is executed, and then this process ends. It should be noted that the present process is resumed from the stage shown in S200 immediately after the completion of the present process through a software reset.
(1-4-2) Special Symbols and Effects Processing In this process, first, at the stage shown in S300 of FIG. 10, it is determined whether or not the number of reserved balls is one or more by the reserved random number determining means 33. The That is, at this stage, it is determined whether or not the special symbol variation display is executable. If this determination is negative, that is, if the number of held balls is 0, this processing ends, but this processing is restarted immediately from this stage after a software reset. On the other hand, if this determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to the step shown in S310.

In the stage shown in S310, the flag determination means 34 determines whether or not the continuous performance flag 62 (“M” in FIG. 10) is 1 or more.
(1-4-2-1) When not in continuous production
In the stage shown in S310, the case where a negative determination is made, that is, the case where the continuous effect flag 62 is 0 means that the continuous effect is not actually executed. In this case, the process proceeds to the step shown in S320.
In the stage shown in S320, the number of reserved balls at that time is stored as the required number of fluctuations ("N" in FIG. 10) by the reserved random number judging means 33, and then 1 is subtracted. Then, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S330.

In the stage shown in S330, first, the numerical value indicated by the random number generation means 31 at the time is extracted as the effect execution determination random number by the effect execution determination random number extraction means 35. Next, the effect execution determination means 36 determines whether or not to execute the effect itself by using the effect execution determination random number.
(1-4-2-1-1) When the production is not executed
If the determination in the step shown in S330 is negative, that is, if the production is not executed, the process proceeds to the step shown in S332 of FIG. At this stage, the winning determination means 37 refers to the winning determination random number held in the winning determination random number holding means 61, and determines whether it is “winning” or not.

In the case of “winning”, the process proceeds to the step shown in S334, and the numerical value indicated by the random number generating means 31 at that time is extracted as the winning design random number by the winning design random number extracting means 38. Then, the special symbol selection means 40 determines a winning symbol corresponding to the winning symbol random number as a special symbol.
On the other hand, in the case of “losing”, the process proceeds to the step shown in S336, and the numerical value indicated by the random number generating means 31 at that time is extracted by the losing symbol random number extracting means 39 as a losing symbol random number. Then, the special symbol selecting means 40 determines the lost symbol corresponding to the lost symbol random number as the special symbol.

In either case, the process proceeds to S338, and the hit determination random number used for the determination in the step shown in S332 is deleted from the hit determination random number holding means 61. Next, the special symbol display means 49 displays the special symbol determined by the special symbol selection means 40 in a variable manner on the liquid crystal screen 12, and then stops the special symbol. Then, this process ends. It should be noted that the present process is resumed with the value of the continuous effect flag 62 kept at 0 from the stage shown in S300 in FIG.
(1-4-2-1-2) When the production is performed If the determination at the stage shown in S330 in FIG. At this stage, the winning determination means 37 refers to the winning determination random number held in the winning determination random number holding means 61, and determines whether it is “winning” or not.

In case of (1-4-2-1-2-1)
When it is determined as “winning” in the step shown in S340, the process proceeds to the step shown in S350, and the numerical value indicated by the random number generating unit 31 at that time is extracted as the winning design random number by the winning design random number extracting unit 38. Then, the special symbol selection means 40 determines a winning symbol corresponding to the winning symbol random number as a special symbol. Then, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S360.
At the stage shown in S360, the effect random number extraction means 43 extracts the numerical value indicated by the random number generation means 31 at that time as the effect random number. Next, the effect pattern selection means 44 selects any one of the single effect patterns 1 to 10 based on this effect random number. Then, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S520.

In the step shown in S520, the hit determination random number used for the determination in the step shown in S340 is deleted from the hit determination random number holding means 61. Next, the special symbol display means 49 displays the winning symbols determined by the special symbol selection means 40 in a variable manner on the liquid crystal screen 12, and then stops the display. In accordance with this variable display, the effect display means 50 displays the effect on the liquid crystal screen 12 in accordance with the single effect pattern determined by the effect pattern selection means 44. Then, this process ends. It should be noted that, after the completion of this process, the process is resumed from the stage shown in S300 immediately after a software reset, with the continuous effect flag 62 kept at 0.
(1-4-2-1-2-2) Loss
If “lost” is determined in the step shown in S340, the process proceeds to the step shown in S370, and the numerical value indicated by the random number generating means 31 at that time is extracted by the lost symbol random number extracting means 39 as a lost symbol random number. Then, the special symbol selecting means 40 determines the lost symbol corresponding to the lost symbol random number as the special symbol. Then, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S380.

In the stage shown in S380, the pending random number determination means 33 determines whether or not the required number of fluctuations is 2 or more. If it is not 2 or more, that is, if the required number of times of change is 1, the continuous effect is not started. Therefore, in this case, the process proceeds to the step shown in S400.
On the other hand, when the number is two or more, there is a possibility that a continuous performance is started. Therefore, in this case, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S390.
In the stage shown in S390, the numerical value indicated by the random number generation means 31 at the time is extracted as the continuous production determination random number by the continuous production determination random number extraction unit 41. Next, the continuous effect determination means 42 determines whether or not to start the continuous effect based on the continuous effect determination random number. If the continuous production is not started, the process proceeds to the step shown in S400, and if the continuous production is started, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S410.

(1-4-2-1-2-1) When continuous production is not started
When a negative determination is made at the stage shown in S380 or a negative determination is made at the stage shown in S390, the continuous performance is not started. Therefore, the process proceeds to the step shown in S400, and the numerical value indicated by the random number generating means 31 at that time is extracted as the effect random number by the effect random number extraction means 43. Next, the effect pattern selection means 44 selects any one of the single effect patterns 11 and 12 by the effect random number. Then, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S520.
In the step shown in S520, the hit determination random number used for the determination in the step shown in S340 is deleted from the hit determination random number holding means 61. Next, the special symbol display means 49 causes the lost symbol determined by the special symbol selection means 40 to be variably displayed on the liquid crystal screen 12 and then stopped. In accordance with this variable display, the effect display means 50 displays the effect on the liquid crystal screen 12 in accordance with the single effect pattern determined by the effect pattern selection means 44. Then, this process ends. It should be noted that, after the completion of this process, the process is resumed from the stage shown in S300 immediately after a software reset, with the continuous effect flag 62 kept at 0.

(1-4-2-1-2-2) When continuous production starts
If a positive determination is made at the stage shown in S390, continuous production is started. Therefore, the process proceeds to the step shown in S410, and the numerical value indicated by the random number generating means 31 at the time is extracted as the effect random number by the effect random number extraction means 43. Next, with this effect random number, the effect pattern selection means 44 selects one continuous effect pattern corresponding to the required number of fluctuations. That is, if the required number of times of change is 2, continuous effects patterns 1 to 4 are selected, if the required number of times of change is 3, continuous effects patterns 5 to 8 are selected, and if the required number of changes is 4, continuous effects are provided. A continuous performance pattern is selected from among patterns 9 and 10, respectively. Then, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S420.

At the stage shown in S420, the continuous effect flag 62 is set to 1 by the flag setting means 45. Then, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S490.
In the stage shown in S490, the production unit selection means 46 selects the first loss production unit in this case from the production units constituting the continuous production pattern. Then, the process proceeds to the step shown in S500.
In the stage shown in S500, the continuous effect end determination means 47 determines whether or not the continuous effect flag 62 at that time is equal to the required number of fluctuations. In this case, since the continuous effect flag 62 is 1 and the required number of times of change is at least 2, the process proceeds to the step shown in S520.

In the step shown in S520, the hit determination random number used for the determination in the step shown in S340 is deleted from the hit determination random number holding means 61. Next, the special symbol display means 49 causes the lost symbol determined by the special symbol selection means 40 to be variably displayed on the liquid crystal screen 12 and then stopped. In accordance with this variable display, the effect display means 50 displays the effect on the liquid crystal screen 12 in accordance with the lost effect unit selected by the effect unit selection means 46. And this process is complete | finished in the state which the continuous production continued. It should be noted that this process is resumed with the continuous effect flag 62 set to 1 from the stage shown in S300 immediately after a software reset after the completion of this process.
(1-4-2-2) In case of continuous production
When a positive determination is made at the stage shown in S310, that is, the case where the continuous effect flag 62 is 1 or more means that the continuous effect is actually being executed. In this case, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S430.

In the stage shown in S430, the reserved random number judging means 33 subtracts 1 from the number of held balls at that time. Then, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S440.
At the stage shown in S440, the flag setting means 45 adds 1 to the continuous effect flag 62. As a result, the number of times of variable display is advanced by one. Then, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S450.
At the stage shown in S450, the winning determination means 37 refers to the winning determination random number held in the winning determination random number holding means 61, and determines whether it is “winning” or not. .

In case of (1-4-2-2-1)
When it is determined as “winning” at the stage shown in S450, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S460, and the numerical value indicated by the random number generating means 31 at that time is extracted as the winning design random number by the winning design random number extracting means 38. Then, the special symbol selection means 40 determines a winning symbol corresponding to the winning symbol random number as a special symbol. Then, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S470.
At the stage shown in S470, the number of times indicated by the numerical value of the continuous effect flag 62 is selected from the effect units constituting the continuous effect pattern (see S410) selected by the effect unit selecting means 46 at the time of the previous variation display. The corresponding hit production unit is selected. Further, at this stage, determination that the continuous effect is ended is made by the continuous effect end determination means 47, and the process proceeds to the step shown in S510.

At the stage shown in S510, the continuous effect flag 62 is set to 0 by the flag releasing means 48. Then, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S520.
In the step shown in S520, the hit determination random number used for the determination in the step shown in S450 is deleted from the hit determination random number holding means 61. Next, the special symbol display means 49 displays the winning symbols determined by the special symbol selection means 40 in a variable manner on the liquid crystal screen 12, and then stops the display. In accordance with this variable display, the effect display means 50 displays the effect on the liquid crystal screen 12 according to the hit effect unit determined by the effect unit selection means 46. And this process is complete | finished in the state which the continuous production was complete | finished. It should be noted that this process is resumed with the continuous effect flag 62 set to 0 from the stage shown in S300 immediately after a software reset after the end of this process.

(1-4-2-2-2) Loss On the other hand, if it is determined as “lost” in the step shown in S450, the process proceeds to the step shown in S480, and the lost symbol random number extraction means 39 at the time point The numerical value indicated by the random number generation means 31 is extracted as a lost symbol random number. Then, the special symbol selecting means 40 determines the lost symbol corresponding to the lost symbol random number as the special symbol. Then, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S490.
In the stage shown in S490, the number of times indicated by the numerical value of the continuous effect flag 62 is selected from the effect units constituting the continuous effect pattern (see S410) selected by the effect unit selection means 46 in the previous variation display. The corresponding lost production unit is selected. Then, the process proceeds to the step shown in S500.

In the stage shown in S500, the continuous effect end determination means 47 determines whether or not the continuous effect flag 62 at that time is equal to the required number of fluctuations.
(1-4-2-2-2-1) When ending the continuous production
If the determination at the stage shown in S500 is affirmative, the number of changes corresponds to the final number of changes in the continuous performance pattern. Accordingly, in this case, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S510, and the continuous effect flag 62 is set to 0 by the flag releasing means 48. Then, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S520.
In the step shown in S520, the hit determination random number used for the determination in the step shown in S450 is deleted from the hit determination random number holding means 61. Next, the special symbol display means 49 causes the lost symbol determined by the special symbol selection means 40 to be variably displayed on the liquid crystal screen 12 and then stopped. In accordance with this variable display, the effect display means 50 displays the effect on the liquid crystal screen 12 in accordance with the lost effect unit selected by the effect unit selection means 46. And this process is complete | finished in the state which the continuous production was complete | finished. It should be noted that this process is resumed with the continuous effect flag 62 set to 0 from the stage shown in S300 immediately after a software reset after the end of this process.

(1-4-2-2-2) When Continuous Production is Continued On the other hand, the negative determination at the stage shown in S500 means that the number of fluctuations is the final number of fluctuations in the continuous production pattern. Will not reach. Therefore, in this case, the process proceeds to the step shown in S520.
In the step shown in S520, the hit determination random number used for the determination in the step shown in S450 is deleted from the hit determination random number holding means 61. Next, the special symbol display means 49 causes the lost symbol determined by the special symbol selection means 40 to be variably displayed on the liquid crystal screen 12 and then stopped. In accordance with this variable display, the effect display means 50 displays the effect on the liquid crystal screen 12 in accordance with the lost effect unit selected by the effect unit selection means 46. And this process is complete | finished in the state which the continuous production continued. It should be noted that, after the completion of this process, the process is resumed from the stage shown in S300 immediately after a software reset, with the continuous effect flag 62 added in the stage shown in S440.

(2) Second Embodiment In the second embodiment of the present invention, a continuous effect pattern is prepared for each combination of “winning” and “losing” related to holding.
(2-1) Board surface appearance The board surface 11 of the ball game machine 10 according to the second embodiment is the same as that according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the description should refer to the description in (1-1) above.
(2-2) Outline of the game The outline of the game in the bullet ball gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment is the same as that according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the description should refer to the description in (1-2) above.

(2-3) Functional Block The functions related to the hit determination, special symbol selection, and effect pattern selection of the ball game machine 10 according to the present embodiment are the functional block diagram of FIG. 8 as in the first embodiment. Indicated. In the present embodiment, the configuration of the continuous performance pattern table 72 is different from the component of the same name in the first embodiment. Further, the CPU 30 as the processing means also functions as the hold per hit determination means 51 as a new component. Accordingly, these components will be described below. In addition, since the function of each component other than those is the same as that of the component of the same name in 1st Embodiment, the description should refer the description of each component of said (1-3).

(2-3-1) Continuous Effect Pattern Table In the continuous effect pattern table 72, as shown in Table 3 below, among the continuously variable patterns that require two variable displays, those that finally end in the hit effect unit and Of the continuous variation patterns that require three variations, each of which ends with a loss production unit, and which requires three variations, the one that ends with a unit of production for the last time and the one that ends with a loss production unit display four variations and four times, respectively. Of the continuous variation patterns required, two patterns each finally ending in the hit effect unit and one ending in the lost effect unit are stored.

上記表３に示すように、各連続演出パターンにおいては、各変動表示回数ごとに当たり演出単位であるか又はハズレ演出単位であるかがあらかじめ決定されている。
各連続演出パターンは、それぞれ異なったストーリーに基づくものである。そのストーリーの具体的な内容は詳述しないが、各演出単位におけるストーリーの傾向は概ね以下のようになっている。
（２−３−１−１）連続演出パターン１
第１回：ハズレ図柄が変動表示されるのに伴い表示される。ストーリーの発端部分が提示される。第２回へ続く。

As shown in Table 3 above, in each continuous effect pattern, whether it is a win effect unit or a lost effect unit is determined in advance for each variable display count.
Each continuous performance pattern is based on a different story. Although the specific contents of the story are not described in detail, the tendency of the story in each production unit is as follows.
(2-3-1-1) Continuous production pattern 1
1st: Displayed as the losing symbol is variably displayed. The beginning of the story is presented. Continue to the second.

2nd: Displayed as the winning symbol is variably displayed. Following the beginning of the first round, a successful ending is presented. The continuous production ends in this production unit.
The continuous production patterns 2, 3, and 4 are generally the same as described above.
(2-3-1-2) Continuous production pattern 5
1st: Displayed as the losing symbol is variably displayed. The beginning of the story is presented. Continue to the second.
The second: It is displayed with losing symbol variably displayed. Following the first introductory part, the end of the failure is presented. The continuous production ends in this production unit.

The continuous effect patterns 6, 7 and 8 are substantially the same as described above.
(2-3-1-3) Continuous production pattern 9
1st: Displayed as the losing symbol is variably displayed. The beginning of the story is presented. Continued to the second time. Second time: displayed as the losing symbol is variably displayed. Following the first introductory part, the contents to be developed are presented. Continue to the third.
3rd: Displayed as the winning symbol is variably displayed. Following the second round of deployment, a successful ending is presented. The continuous production ends in this production unit.

The continuous effect patterns 10, 11 and 12 are generally the same as described above.
(2-3-1-4) Continuous production pattern 13
1st: Displayed as the losing symbol is variably displayed. The beginning of the story is presented. Continued to the second time. Second time: displayed as the losing symbol is variably displayed. Following the first introductory part, the contents to be developed are presented. Continue to the third.
The third: It is displayed with losing design changing display. Following the second round of development, the end of the failure is presented. The continuous production ends in this production unit.

The continuous effect patterns 14, 15 and 16 are substantially the same as described above.
(2-3-1-5) Continuous production pattern 17
1st: Displayed as the losing symbol is variably displayed. The beginning of the story is presented. Continued to the second time. Second time: displayed as the losing symbol is variably displayed. Following the first introductory part, the contents to be developed are presented. Continue to the third.
The third: It is displayed with losing design changing display. Following the second development, the contents are presented to further develop this. Continue to the 4th.

4th: Displayed as the winning symbol is variably displayed. Following the third round of deployment, a successful ending is presented. The continuous production ends in this production unit.
The continuous effect pattern 18 is substantially the same as described above.
(2-3-1-6) Continuous performance pattern 19
1st: Displayed as the losing symbol is variably displayed. The beginning of the story is presented. Continued to the second time. Second time: displayed as the losing symbol is variably displayed. Following the first introductory part, the contents to be developed are presented. Continue to the third.

The third: It is displayed with losing design changing display. Following the second development, the contents are presented to further develop this. Continue to the 4th.
The fourth: It is displayed as losing symbol is variably displayed. Following the third round of development, the end of the failure is presented. The continuous production ends in this production unit.
The continuous effect pattern 20 is substantially the same as described above.
(2-3-2) On-hold hit determination means The on-hold hit determination means 51 is a hit determination random number held on the hit determination random number hold means 61 and has not been used for hit determination by the hit determination means 37 yet. The same determination as that of the hit determination means 37 is executed.

(2-4) Processing Procedure Hereinafter, the processing procedure in the ball game machine 10 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 9, 10, and 11. Note that the processing procedure in the ball game machine 10 according to the present embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment. Therefore, only different processing steps will be described below, and for other processing steps, refer to the corresponding sections in (1-4) above.
(2-4-1) Winning determination random number hold processing This processing is the same as (1-4-1) above.

(2-4-2) Processing for Special Symbols and Effects The steps shown in S300 and S310 of FIG. 10 are the same as (1-4-2) described above.
(2-4-2-1) When not in continuous production
About the step shown to S320 and S330, it is the same as that of the said (1-4-2-1).
(2-4-2-1-1) When no production is performed This case is the same as (1-4-2-1-1) above.
(2-4-2-1-2) When performing an effect
The stage shown in S340 is the same as (1-4-2-1-2) above.

In the case of (2-4-2-1-2-1) This case is the same as (1-4-2-1-2-1) above.
(2-4-2-1-2-2) Loss
The steps shown in S370, S380, and S390 are the same as in (1-4-2-1-2-2) above.
(2-4-2-1-2-2-1) Continuous production is not started This case is the same as (1-4-2-1-2-1) above.
(2-4-2-1-2-2-2) When continuous production starts
If a positive determination is made at the stage shown in S390, continuous production is started. Therefore, the process proceeds to the step shown in S410, and the numerical value indicated by the random number generating means 31 at the time is extracted as the effect random number by the effect random number extraction means 43. At the same time, whether the “hit” or “lost” is determined by the pending hit determination means 51 for the Nth of the hit determination random numbers currently held in the hit determination random number hold means 61 from the earliest one. Determined. Next, with the effect random number, the effect pattern selection means 44 selects one continuous effect pattern corresponding to the required number of fluctuations and the patterns of “winning” and “lost”. However, if it is “winning” before reaching the Nth, the continuous effect pattern up to that point is selected. In other words, if the required number of fluctuations is 2, it is continuous from continuous production patterns 1 to 4 (in the case of “winning” the second time) or continuous production patterns 5 to 8 (in the case of all “losing” up to the second time). A production pattern is selected. Also, if the required number of fluctuations is 3, continuous production patterns 9 to 12 (in the case of “winning” for the third time) or continuous production patterns 13 to 16 (in the case of “all lost” up to the third time) are continuous. A production pattern is selected. Furthermore, if the required number of fluctuations is 4, a continuous effect pattern is selected from the continuous effect pattern 17 or 18 (in the case of “winning” for the fourth time) or the continuous effect pattern 19 or 20 (in the case of “all lost” up to the fourth time). Is done. Then, the process proceeds to the stage shown in S420.

The steps shown in S420, S490, S500, and S520 are the same as the above (1-4-2-1-2-2).
(2-4-2-2) In the case of continuous production This case is the same as (1-4-2-2) above.
(3) Others Each random number other than the hit determination random number is not necessarily required for each variable display. Therefore, in each of the above embodiments, each random number is extracted immediately before it becomes necessary for determination or judgment. However, the extraction timing does not matter as long as it is extracted before the determination or determination. In addition, each random number or a part thereof may be extracted in a lump in the event of winning at the start port 14, regardless of whether it is necessary or not, like the winning determination random number. However, in this case, it is desirable to provide a dedicated random number generation means 31 for each random number extraction means in order to avoid the random numbers from being the same due to the same random number extraction timing.

  Further, in each of the above embodiments, an upper limit is set for the number of hit determination random numbers held by the hit determination random number holding means 61. However, the upper limit of the configuration of the present invention is not necessarily provided, but the upper limit of the number of variable display times required for the continuous production needs to be determined appropriately.

10 Ball game machine
11 panel 12 LCD screen
13 Special symbol hold lamp 14 Start port
15 Magnifier 16 Attacker unit
17 Grand prize opening 18 Normal symbol display device
19 Normal symbol holding lamp 20 Fluctuation start gate
21 winning mouth 22 out mouth
30 CPU
31 Random number generator
32 hit judgment random number extraction means
33 Hold random number judging means 34 Flag judging means
35 Production execution decision random number extraction means
36 Production execution judging means 37 Hit judging means
38 per symbol random number extraction means
39 Loss pattern random number extraction means
40 Special symbol selection means
41 Continuous production judgment random number extraction means
42 Continuous production judgment means 43 Production random number extraction means
44 Production pattern selection means
45 Flag setting means 46 Production unit selection means
47 Continuous production end judgment means
48 Flag release means 49 Special symbol display means
50 Production display means 51 Judgment means per hold
60 RAM
61 Random number holding means for winning
62 Continuous production flag
70 ROM
71 Single production pattern table
72 Continuous pattern table

Claims (1)

Each time a game ball is won at a predetermined starting point, a special symbol change display related to the occurrence of jackpot game is executed once, and the change display indicates the possibility of a jackpot game occurrence A ball game machine in which an effect to perform may be executed,
A single effect pattern table in which a single effect pattern representing a single effect that is an effect that is completed between one variation display is recorded;
A continuous effect pattern table in which a continuous effect pattern representing a continuous effect that is an effect that continues over a plurality of variable displays is recorded;
Random number generation means;
A winning determination random number extracting means for extracting a winning determination random number from a random number generating means triggered by a winning at the starting opening,
Hit determination means for determining whether or not to generate a jackpot game using the hit determination random number,
Special symbol selection means for selecting a special symbol according to the determination result by the hit determination means by lottery;
A continuous effect flag that takes one of a set state indicating that the continuous effect is actually being executed or a non-set state indicating that the continuous effect is not being executed;
Flag determining means for determining the state of the continuous effect flag;
Effect execution determining means for determining whether or not to execute an effect when the flag determining means determines that the continuous effect flag is in a non-set state;
Prior to the determination of whether or not to start the continuous effect, continuous effect determination random number extraction means for extracting the continuous effect determination random number from the random number generation means,
If the determination result by the effect execution determination means is affirmative, continuous effect determination means for determining whether to start a continuous effect from the variable display using the continuous effect determination random number,
When a positive determination is made by the continuous production determination means, a continuous production pattern is selected from the continuous production pattern table, and when a negative determination is made, a single production pattern is selected from the single production pattern table. Production pattern selection means to perform,
Flag setting means for changing the continuous effect flag to a set state when a continuous effect pattern is selected by the effect pattern selecting means;
Special symbol display means for variably displaying the special symbol;
When the flag determining means determines that the continuous effect flag is in the set state, the effect according to the continuous effect pattern selected when the continuous effect flag is in the set state is displayed as a variation display of the special symbol. And when the flag determining means determines that the continuous effect flag is not set and the determination by the effect execution determining means is affirmative, the effect pattern selecting means An effect display means for displaying an effect in accordance with the continuous effect pattern or the single effect pattern selected according to the variation display of the special symbol;
Continuous effect end determining means for determining whether or not the continuous effect has consumed the required number of variable displays when the flag determining means determines that the continuous effect flag is in a set state;
A flag releasing means for changing the continuous effect flag to a non-set state when the determination by the continuous effect end determining means is affirmative,
The single production pattern table has a plurality of single production patterns,
The bullet ball game machine, wherein the continuous performance pattern table has a plurality of continuous performance patterns.

Images