JP2011015780A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent a decrease in a player's concentration to a game by the player being often shown a latent probability-change performance which is executed when possibility of being in a probability-change is low.SOLUTION: In a Pachinko game machine, a performance control part chooses either of a normal stage-shift table for the probability-change game state or a false stage-shift table, and sets it to RAM (steps 2208, 2209) if the game state is in the probability-change game state (Yes in a step 2206 ) when a higher rank stage is chosen by the player (Yes in steps 2204, 2205). If the game state is a normal game state (No in the step 2206), it chooses either of a normal stage-shift table for the normal game state or a false stage-shift table, and sets it to the RAM (steps 2211, 2212). At this time, only when the player's turn is third, it chooses false the stage-shift table.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine in which a big winning lottery is performed by winning a game ball.

  In a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, a big hit lottery is performed when a game ball wins a winning opening. When the jackpot lottery is won, the gaming machine is put into a jackpot gaming state where the jackpot is opened and a large number of prize balls can be obtained. There is a gaming machine in which the jackpot winning probability when the jackpot lottery is performed again after the end of the jackpot gaming state changes (probability fluctuation) with a high probability. In such a gaming machine, generally, a probability change notification effect is provided to notify the player that the internal state of the gaming machine is in a state of probability variation (probability variation gaming state) using a display on a liquid crystal screen or the like. Has increased expectations.

  On the other hand, even if the internal state is a probabilistic gaming state, a gaming machine that performs a probabilistic latent effect that notifies that there is a possibility that the probable gaming state may be entered instead of performing the probable gaming notification effect under certain conditions (See, for example, Patent Document 1). This probability variation latency effect is performed even if the internal state of the gaming machine is the probability variation gaming state or the state where the winning probability of winning the jackpot does not vary with high probability (normal gaming state). Therefore, the player has a sense of expectation that there is a possibility of being in the probability variation gaming state while the probability variation latency effect is being performed, but it is not possible to know definitely whether or not it is in the probability variation gaming state. It will be placed in an intermediate state where it cannot. In other words, in such a gaming machine, it is possible to prevent a game in a probability-changing game state, which should originally increase the player's expectation, from having a digestive game meaning, and to enhance the interest in gaming in the probability-changing game state. It is higher.

JP 2004-65388 A

  Here, in the current pachinko gaming machine, the first probability variation latent effect is performed when the probability variation gaming state is highly likely, and the first probability variation when the probability variation probability gaming state is low. Some perform a second probability variation latent effect different from the latent effect. In the case of such a pachinko machine, since the probability variation gaming state is not initially set, even if the second probability variation latency effect is seen, the chance of seeing the first probability variation latency effect gradually increases. The player's expectation that it may be becoming will increase. However, when the internal state is the normal gaming state for a while, the first probability variation latency effect is rarely shown, and the second probability variation latency effect is often exhibited, so the player's expectation is increased so much. There is also a possibility that the player stops playing the game halfway.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of preventing a decrease in concentration of a player with respect to a game due to a large amount of probability variation latent effects performed when the probability of being in a probability variation game state is low. With the goal.

  The present invention that achieves the above object has a normal state and a high probability state having a higher jackpot winning probability than the normal state as internal states related to the jackpot winning probability, and the internal state is a normal state or a high probability state The first latent effect indicating that the possibility that the internal state is in a high probability state is the first level, and the internal state is in a high probability state. Producing means 300 for performing a latent effect including a second latent effect indicating that a certain possibility is a second level lower than the first level, and the first latent effect is performed by the producing means 300. Based on the recognition means 300 that recognizes that the player is a player who has newly started the game, and the recognition means 300 that accepts the latent effect instruction that instructs the player. When the instruction of the latent effect is received by the determining means 300 for determining the order of the first and the receiving means 161, the first latent effect is performed, and then the second is determined with the probability corresponding to the order of the player determined by the determining means 300. This is a gaming machine provided with a control means 300 for controlling the effect means 300 so as to perform two latent effects.

Here, the control means 300 performs the first latent effect with a probability corresponding to the order of the player determined by the determining means 300 when the second latent effect is performed by the effecting means 300. The rendering unit 300 may be controlled.
In addition, the effect unit 300 performs a latent effect further including a third latent effect indicating that the possibility that the internal state is a high probability state is a third level lower than the second level, and the control unit 300 Controls the rendering means 300 to perform the third latent effect with a probability corresponding to the order of the player determined by the determining means 300 when the second latent effect is performed by the rendering means 300. May be.
Furthermore, the effect unit 300 performs a latent effect further including a third latent effect indicating that the possibility that the internal state is a high probability state is a third level lower than the second level, and the control unit 300 Controls the rendering means 300 to perform the second latent effect with a probability according to the order of the player determined by the determining means 300 when the third latent effect is performed by the rendering means 300. May be.

In the present invention, the recognition means 300 may recognize the player by any of the following methods.
(1) If the player waits for a predetermined time or longer before the player starts playing, the player recognizes that the player has started a new game.
(2) When a return operation of a medium or a coin is performed before the player starts a game, it is recognized that the player is a player who has newly started a game.
(3) When a state in which a game ball is not fired for a predetermined time or longer before the player starts a game, it is recognized that the player is a player who has newly started a game.

  In addition, the said code | symbol in this column is attached | subjected illustratively in the description of this invention, and this invention is not reduced by this code | symbol.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the fall of the concentration with respect to a player's game by showing many probability change latent effects performed when possibility that it is in a probability change game state is low can be prevented.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[Basic configuration of gaming machine]
FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment.
A pachinko gaming machine 100 as an example of the gaming machine shown in the figure is configured to pay out a prize ball when a game ball launched by an instruction operation by a player wins. The pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a game board 110 on which game balls are launched, and a frame member 150 that surrounds the game board 110. The game board 110 is detachably attached to the frame member 150.

The game board 110 has, on the front, a game area 111 for playing a game with a game ball, and a rail member 112 that forms a passage where a game ball launched from below rises toward the upper position of the game area 111. I have.
In the present embodiment, an image display unit 114 that displays various images for production is provided at a position of the game area 111 that is easily visible by the player. As the game progresses by the player, for example, the image display unit 114 notifies the player of the symbol lottery result (symbol variation result) with a decorative symbol, or displays a notice effect by the appearance of a character or the appearance of an item. Or As the image display unit 114, for example, a configuration example using a liquid crystal display device, an EL display device, an LED dot display device, a 7-segment display device, or the like can be considered.
In the present embodiment, the front of the game board 110 is provided with a movable accessory 115 and a board lamp 116 used for various effects. The movable accessory 115 is configured to be movable with respect to the game board 110 and performs various effects by the movement, and the board lamp 116 performs various effects by light by emitting light.

  The game area 111 is provided with a game nail and a windmill (not shown) for changing the direction in which the game ball falls. Further, in the game area 111, various bonuses relating to winning and lottery are arranged at predetermined positions. In addition, the game area 111 is provided with a discharge port 117 through which game balls launched into the game area 111 that have not been won in the winning area are discharged out of the game area 111.

In the present embodiment, as various types of prizes and lotteries, there are a first start port 121 where a special symbol lottery (a jackpot lottery) starts when a game ball enters, and a position below the first start port 121. The game board 110 is provided with a second start port 122 where a special symbol lottery starts when a game ball enters and a gate 124 where a normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) starts when the game ball passes. ing. Here, the first starting port 121 and the second starting port 122 operate either one predetermined special electric accessory (large winning port 125) or one predetermined special symbol display. It means a winning opening related to winning a game ball.
The second starting port 122 includes an electric tulip 123 as a normal electric accessory that is turned on and off by a pair of blades in the shape of tulip flowers opened and closed by an electric solenoid. When the blades of the electric tulip 123 are closed, it is difficult for the game ball to enter the second start port 122. However, when the blades are opened, the entrance of the second start port 122 expands and the game ball moves to the second start port 122. It is configured to be easy to enter. When the electric tulip 123 wins the normal symbol lottery, the blade opens for a specified time (for example, 6 seconds) and a specified number of times (for example, 3 times) while lighting or flashing.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 100 has a high probability state (for example, 1/30) from a low probability state (for example, 1/300) to a high probability state (for example, 1/30) when the jackpot probability that the jackpot is drawn in a special symbol lottery varies under a predetermined condition. ))). In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 100 can reduce the special symbol variation time during the special symbol lottery under a predetermined condition, increase the probability of winning during the normal symbol lottery, or the normal symbol variation time during the normal symbol lottery. In some cases, the opening time of the blades of the electric tulip 123 may be shortened, or the number of times the blades of the electric tulip 123 may be opened (electric chew support).

Further, in the present embodiment, as various types of prizes and lotteries, a large winning opening 125 positioned below the second start opening 122 and opened according to the result of the special symbol lottery, and a game ball wins. However, the game board 110 is provided with a normal winning opening 126 where the lottery does not start. The big prize opening 125 is normally closed, but a round in which the special winning lottery is maintained in an open state is maintained in a projecting inclination until a predetermined condition (for example, 30 seconds has passed or 10 game balls have been won) is satisfied. Repeat a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times or 2 times).
In the present embodiment, the first start port 121 and the second start port 122 are provided in the game area 111, but a configuration example in which only one of them is provided or another start port is provided. A configuration example is also conceivable. Further, in the present embodiment, one big prize opening 125 is arranged in the game area 111, but a configuration example in which a plurality of big prize openings 125 are arranged is also conceivable.
In the present embodiment, a display 130 for displaying a lottery result and the number of holds is arranged at the lower right position of the game board 110. Details of the display 130 will be described later.

  The payout of prize balls will be described. When a game ball wins at the first start port 121, the second start port 122, the big winning port 125, and the normal winning port 126, a predetermined number of award balls per game ball are paid out according to the place where the game ball has won. It is. For example, when a game ball wins the first start port 121, three prize balls, when a game ball wins the second start port 122, four prize balls, and when the game ball wins the big prize port 125, When a game ball wins the 13 prize balls and the normal prize opening 126, 10 prize balls are paid out respectively. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 124, there is no payout of the prize ball in conjunction with it.

Various boards (not shown) and the like are attached to the rear surface of the game board 110. In other words, the main board and the sub board are arranged on the rear surface of the game board 110. That is, on the rear surface of the game board 110, a game control board in which a later-described game control unit 200 that performs internal lottery, determination of winning, and the like is provided as a main board. The game control board is sealed in a main board case made of a transparent member so that a trace remains when opened.
Further, as a sub-board, an effect control board in which an after-mentioned effect control unit 300 for overall control of effects is configured, and an image control board in which an after-mentioned image / sound control unit 310 for controlling effects by images and sounds is configured. In addition, a lamp control board on which a lamp control unit 320 (to be described later) for controlling the effects of various lamps and the movable accessory 115 is disposed. A switching power supply (not shown) for converting the supplied 24V AC power source into a DC power source and outputting it to various boards and the like is disposed on the rear surface of the game board 110.
In other words, a payout control board 400 that performs payout control of a payout ball, which is described later, and a supply ball that is controlled by the payout control board and is replenished from the outside are temporarily stored. The frame member 150 is provided with a payout unit (not shown) for paying out and paying out lending balls.

When the player touches the handle 151 and rotates the lever 152 in the clockwise direction, the frame member 150 moves the game balls at a predetermined time interval (for example, 100 per minute) with a hitting force according to the operation angle. And a launching device (not shown) for electrically firing. In addition, the frame member 150 includes a supply device (not shown) that sequentially supplies game balls to the launching device one by one at a timing in conjunction with the operation of the player's lever 152, and a game ball that the supply device supplies to the launching device A plate 153 (see FIG. 2) for temporarily storing. For example, a payout ball by a payout unit is paid out to the plate 153.
In the present embodiment, the plate 153 is configured as an integrated upper and lower plate, but a configuration example in which the upper plate and the lower plate are separated is also conceivable. A configuration example in which the handle 151 of the launching device emits light under a predetermined condition is also conceivable.

In addition, the frame member 150 is provided with a stop button 154 for temporarily stopping the launch of the game ball even when the player is touching the handle 151 of the launch device, and a game ball accumulated in the tray 153. A take-out button 155 for dropping and taking out the box (not shown).
Further, the frame member 150 includes a speaker 156 and a frame lamp 157 for notifying the gaming state and situation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 and performing various effects. The speaker 156 performs various effects based on music, voice, and sound effects, and the frame lamp 157 performs various effects based on light depending on a pattern or light emission color caused by lighting and blinking. In addition, about the frame lamp | ramp 157, the structural example which enables it to perform the effect which changes the irradiation direction of light can be considered.
The frame member 150 also includes a transparent plate (not shown) for separating the game board 110 from the player.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 2A is an enlarged view showing an example of the display unit 130 arranged at the lower right of the game board 110. b) is a partial plan view of the pachinko gaming machine 100. FIG.
As shown in FIG. 2A, the display 130 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a first special symbol display 221 that operates in response to winning of the first starting port 121 and a winning of the second starting port 122. The second special symbol display 222 that operates in response to the above and the normal symbol display 223 that operates in response to the passage of the gate 124 are provided. The first special symbol display 221 variably displays the special symbol resulting from the winning of the first start port 121 and displays the lottery result. The second special symbol display 222 variably displays the special symbol resulting from winning of the second start port 122 and displays the lottery result. The normal symbol display 223 displays the normal symbol variably and displays the lottery result when the game ball passes through the gate 124. In the present embodiment, the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222 are configured by a 7-segment display device, and the normal symbol display 223 is configured by an LED display device. .

  In addition, the indicator 130 operates in response to the hold in the first special symbol display 221 and the first special symbol hold indicator 218 that operates corresponding to the hold in the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222. 2 a special symbol hold indicator 219 and a normal symbol hold indicator 220 that operates in response to the hold in the normal symbol indicator 223. This hold will be described. If there is a prize by another game ball during the fluctuation display operation (while the fluctuation display for one win is being performed), the symbol fluctuation display operation for the prized game ball will be applied to the game ball which has been won first. Until the variable display operation is completed, a predetermined number (for example, four) is held as a limit. The fact that such a hold is made and the number of the hold (the number of undrawn lots) are displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the normal symbol hold indicator 220. In the present embodiment, each of the first special symbol hold indicator 218, the second special symbol hold indicator 219, and the normal symbol hold indicator 220 is constituted by an LED display device arranged in a row, and the lighting thereof The number of holds is displayed according to the mode.

  The frame member 150 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes an input device for a player to input an effect. As shown in FIG. 2B, in the present embodiment, as an example of an input device, an effect button 161 and an effect key 162 composed of a plurality of keys adjacent to the effect button 161 and arranged in a substantially cross shape are provided. Are disposed on the frame member 150. The production key 162 is configured such that one central key is arranged at the center, and four peripheral keys having substantially the same shape are arranged around the central key. The player can instruct one of a plurality of images displayed on the image display unit 114 by operating the four peripheral keys, and also instructed by operating the center key. It is possible to select an image.

[Configuration of control unit]
Next, a control unit that performs operation control and signal processing in the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the control unit. As shown in the figure, the control unit includes a game control unit 200 that performs various controls relating to the number of prize balls to be paid out, such as internal lottery and determination of winning, as main control means. Further, as sub-control means, an effect control unit 300 that comprehensively controls effects, an image / sound control unit 310 that controls effects using images and sound, and effects using various lamps and movable accessories 115 A ramp control unit 320 for controlling the payout, and a payout control unit 400 for performing payout control of the payout ball. As described above, the game control unit 200, the effect control unit 300, the image / sound control unit 310, the lamp control unit 320, and the payout control unit 400 are each a game as a main board disposed on the rear surface of the game board 110. The control board, and further, the effect control board, the image control board, the lamp control board, and the payout control board as sub boards are individually configured.

[Configuration and function of game control unit]
The game control unit 200 includes a CPU 201 that performs arithmetic processing when performing various types of control related to the number of paid-out prize balls, such as internal lottery and winning determination, and a ROM 202 that stores programs executed by the CPU 201 and various data. And a RAM 203 used as a working memory for the CPU 201.
The game control unit 200 performs a special symbol lottery when a game ball wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, and sends a determination result as to whether or not it is a win in the special symbol lottery to the effect control unit 300. Also, fluctuation setting of winning probability at special symbol lottery (for example, fluctuation setting from 1/300 to 1/30), special symbol fluctuation time reduction setting at special symbol lottery, and normal symbol at normal symbol lottery The variable time is set to be shortened, and the setting content is sent to the effect control unit 300.
Further, the game control unit 200 controls the extension of the opening time of the blades of the electric tulip 123, the setting of the number of times the blades of the electric tulip 123 are opened, and the setting of the opening / closing operation interval when the blades are opened. In addition, when a game ball continuously wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122, the game ball is held up to the limit number (for example, four) for the undrawn lottery, or the game ball passes through the gate 124 continuously. The suspension is set up to the limit number (for example, 4) for the undrawn lots.
In addition, the game control unit 200 keeps an open state in a protruding manner until the special winning opening 125 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, 30 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) according to the result of the special symbol lottery. Is controlled to be repeated a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times or 2 times). Furthermore, the opening / closing operation interval when the special winning opening 125 is opened is controlled.

Further, when the game ball is won in the first start port 121, the second start port 122, the big winning port 125, and the normal winning port 126, the game control unit 200 per game ball according to the place where the game ball has won. The payout control unit 400 is instructed to pay out a predetermined number of prize balls. For example, when a game ball wins at the first start port 121, three prize balls, when a game ball wins at the second start port 122, four prize balls, and when a game ball wins the big prize port 125, thirteen prizes. When a game ball wins the ball, the normal winning opening 126, an instruction command (command) is sent to the payout control unit 400 so as to pay out 10 prize balls. Even if it is detected that the game ball has passed through the gate 124, the payout control unit 400 is not instructed to pay out the prize ball in conjunction therewith.
When the payout control unit 400 pays out a prize ball in accordance with an instruction from the game control unit 200, the game control unit 200 acquires information on the number of prize balls paid out from the payout control unit 400. Thereby, the number of prize balls paid out is managed.

As shown in FIG. 3, the game control unit 200 includes a first start port detection unit (first start port switch (SW)) 211 that detects a winning of a game ball to the first start port 121, and a second start. A second start port detection unit (second start port switch (SW)) 212 that detects a winning of a game ball to the mouth 122, an electric tulip opening / closing unit 213 that opens and closes the electric tulip 123, and a game ball to the gate 124 A gate detection unit (gate switch (SW)) 214 that detects passage is connected.
Further, the game control unit 200 has a large winning port detecting unit (large winning port switch (SW)) 215 for detecting a winning of a game ball to the large winning port 125, and the large winning port 125 is inclined to be in a closed state. A large winning opening / closing unit 216 set to the open state and a normal winning opening detecting unit (normal winning opening switch (SW)) 217 for detecting the winning of a game ball to the normal winning opening 126 are connected.

In addition, the game control unit 200 displays the reserved number for the undrawn special symbol lottery (big win lottery) started by winning the game ball at the first start port 121 within the limit number (for example, four). A special symbol hold indicator 218, a second special symbol hold indicator 219 for displaying the number of unsold lots in the special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball to the second starting port 122 within the limit number, A normal symbol hold indicator 220 that displays within the limit the number of unsettled reserves started by the normal symbol lottery (open / close lottery) started by passing the game ball to the gate 124 is connected.
Further, the game control unit 200 includes a first special symbol display 221 that displays a result of a special symbol lottery started by winning a game ball at the first start port 121, and a game ball to the second start port 122. A second special symbol display 222 that displays the result of the special symbol lottery started by winning and a normal symbol display 223 that displays the result of the normal symbol lottery are connected.

  Then, detection signals detected by the first start port switch 211, the second start port switch 212, the gate switch 214, the big winning port switch 215 and the normal winning port switch 217 are sent to the game control unit 200. In addition, the control signal from the game control unit 200 includes an electric tulip opening / closing unit 213, a prize winning opening / closing unit 216, a first special symbol hold indicator 218, a second special symbol hold indicator 219, a normal symbol hold indicator 220, It is sent to the first special symbol display 221, the second special symbol display 222, and the normal symbol display 223. Thereby, the game control unit 200 performs various controls related to the number of payout prize balls.

  Further, a board external information terminal board 250 that transmits various kinds of information to a host computer (not shown) installed in the hall is connected to the game control unit 200. Then, the game control unit 200 transmits information regarding the number of paid-out winning balls acquired from the payout control unit 400, information indicating the state of the game control unit 200, and the like to the host computer via the board external information terminal board 250. .

[Configuration and function of production control unit]
Next, the effect control unit 300 includes a CPU 301 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the effect, a ROM 302 that stores programs executed by the CPU 301, various data, and the like, and a RAM 303 that is used as a work memory for the CPU 301 and the like. And a real-time clock (RTC) 304 for measuring the date and time.
The production control unit 300 sets the production content based on, for example, the determination result of whether or not the winning is a special symbol lottery sent from the game control unit 200. At that time, in response to an operation input from the user using the effect button 161 or the effect key 162, the effect content corresponding to the operation input may be set.
In addition, when the game is interrupted for a predetermined period, the production control unit 300 instructs setting of a screen display for waiting for a customer as one of the productions.
Furthermore, when the game control unit 200 changes the winning probability at the time of the special symbol lottery, shortens the special symbol fluctuation time at the time of the special symbol lottery, and shortens the normal symbol fluctuation time at the time of the normal symbol lottery. In this case, the production control unit 300 sets the production content corresponding to the set content.
Further, the effect control unit 300 sends a command for instructing execution of the set effect contents to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320.

[Configuration / Function of Image / Sound Control Unit]
The image / sound control unit 310 is a CPU 311 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the image and sound that expresses the content of the effect, a ROM 312 that stores programs executed by the CPU 311, various data, and the like, and a work for the CPU 311 And a RAM 313 used as a memory or the like.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls the image displayed on the image display unit 114 and the sound output from the speaker 156 based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300.
Specifically, in the ROM 312 of the image / sound control unit 310, a symbol image or background image displayed during the game in the image display unit 114, a decorative symbol for notifying the player of the lottery result, and a notice effect for the player Image data such as a character or item for displaying is stored. Furthermore, various kinds of acoustic data such as music and sound output from the speaker 156 in synchronization with the image data or independently of the image data, and sound effects such as jingles are stored. The CPU 311 selects and reads out the data corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 300 from the image data and the sound data stored in the ROM 312. Furthermore, image processing for background image display, symbol image display, symbol image variation, character / item display, and the like are performed using the read image data, and voice processing using the read acoustic data is performed.
Then, the image / sound control unit 310 controls screen display on the image display unit 114 based on the image data that has undergone image processing. Further, the sound output from the speaker 156 is controlled by the sound data subjected to the sound processing.

[Configuration and function of lamp control unit]
The lamp control unit 320 stores a CPU 321 that performs arithmetic processing when controlling the light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 and the operation of the movable accessory 115, and programs executed by the CPU 321 and various data. A ROM 322 and a RAM 323 used as a working memory for the CPU 321 are provided.
The lamp control unit 320 controls lighting / flashing of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157, the emission color, and the like based on the command sent from the effect control unit 300. Further, the operation of the movable accessory 115 is controlled.
More specifically, the ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores lighting / flashing pattern data and emission color pattern data (light emission pattern data) for the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 according to the production contents set by the production control unit 300. Data) is stored. The CPU 321 selects and reads out the light emission pattern data stored in the ROM 322 corresponding to the command sent from the effect control unit 300. The lamp controller 320 controls light emission from the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 based on the read light emission pattern data.
The ROM 322 of the lamp control unit 320 stores operation pattern data of the movable accessory 115 corresponding to the production content set by the production control unit 300. The CPU 321 controls the operation of the movable accessory 115 based on the read operation pattern data.

[Configuration and function of payout control unit]
The payout control unit 400 includes a CPU 401 that performs arithmetic processing for controlling payout of the payout ball, a ROM 402 that stores programs executed by the CPU 401, various data, and the like, and a RAM 403 that is used as a work memory for the CPU 401. And.
The payout control unit 400 controls payout of the payout ball based on the command sent from the game control unit 200.
Specifically, the payout control unit 400 acquires, from the game control unit 200, a command for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls according to the place where the game ball has won (the first start port 121 or the like). Then, the payout driving unit 411 is controlled so as to pay out the number of prize balls specified by the command. Here, the payout drive unit 411 includes a drive motor that sends out the game ball from the game ball storage unit.

The payout control unit 400 also includes a payout ball detection unit 412 that detects the number of prize balls actually paid out from the game ball storage unit by the payout drive unit 411, and a game ball in the storage unit (not shown). Detecting unit 413 for detecting presence / absence of storage of the game, and detecting whether or not the plate 153 for holding the game ball used when the player plays and the awarded ball is full. A full tank detection unit 414 is connected. Then, the payout control unit 400 receives detection signals detected by the payout ball detection unit 412, the ball presence detection unit 413, and the full tank detection unit 414, and performs predetermined processing according to these detection signals.
Further, the payout control unit 400 is connected to a frame external information terminal board 450 that transmits various kinds of information to a host computer installed in the hall. The payout control unit 400, for example, information on the number of prize balls instructed to pay out to the payout driving unit 411, information on the number of prize balls actually paid out detected by the payout ball detection unit 412, and the like Is transmitted to the host computer via the frame external information terminal board 450. Also, similar information is transmitted to the game control unit 200.

[Functional configuration of game control unit]
Next, the functional configuration of the game control unit 200 will be described.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the game control unit 200. As shown in the figure, the game control unit 200 is a special symbol lottery unit 231, a normal symbol lottery unit 232, a special symbol variation control unit 233, and a special symbol lottery result determination as functional units that execute various lottery processes. A unit 234 and a normal symbol control unit 237.
In addition, the game control unit 200 includes a variation pattern selection unit 235 and a game progress control unit 236 as functional units that execute processing associated with special symbol variation.
Furthermore, the game control unit 200 is a function unit that executes operation control of various types of objects and data processing related to a prize ball, etc., as a function unit for a prize winning operation operation unit 238, an electric tulip operation control unit 239, and a prize ball processing unit 240. And an output control unit 241 and a random number control unit 242.

The special symbol lottery unit 231 performs a special symbol lottery when a game ball wins the first start port 121 or the second start port 122.
The normal symbol lottery unit 232 performs a normal symbol lottery when a game ball passes through the gate 124.
When a special symbol lottery is performed, the special symbol variation control unit 233 controls the variation of the special symbol in accordance with the lottery result.

The special symbol lottery result determination unit 234, when a special symbol lottery is performed, the lottery result is “whether it is a big hit”, “a type of jackpot when a big winner is won”, “not a big winner It is determined whether or not it is a small hit or not.
Here, the types of “big hit” include “long hit” in which a long jackpot game time can be expected to be paid out, and “short hit” in which a big hit game time is short. For example, in the “long win”, a round that is maintained until the open state of the big winning opening 125 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, 30 seconds have passed or 10 game balls have been won) is repeated, for example, 15 times. In the “short win”, the round at the special winning opening 125 is repeated twice, for example.

Furthermore, the “long win” is a jackpot (“specific symbol A” in the subsequent stage), which is also called “15 round probability per change” that generates both a probability variation (probability change) gaming state and a time reduction (time reduction) game state after the jackpot game ends. And a jackpot called a “normal jackpot” (a jackpot in the “normal symbol” in the subsequent stage) that generates only a short-time gaming state after the jackpot game ends and does not generate a probabilistic gaming state. The “short win” is a so-called “two-round probable win” (a big hit in the “specific symbol B” in the subsequent stage) that generates a probability variation gaming state after the jackpot game ends and does not generate a short-time gaming state.
In addition, in the case of “small winning” in the case where the big winning is not won, for example, a small winning game is performed in which the big winning opening 125 is opened and closed twice, and the gaming state at the time of winning the small winning is continued even after the winning. Winning (winning with the “small hitting symbol” in the latter part). That is, when the game state at the time of winning the small hit is the probability variation game state, the probability variation game state is continued even after the end of the small hit game, and the game state does not shift. Similarly, if the gaming state at the time of winning the small hit is a normal gaming state (normal gaming state) in which neither probability fluctuation nor time reduction is made, the normal gaming state is continued even after the end of the small hitting game, The gaming state does not transition.
Further, in the “missing”, neither the “big hit” nor the “small winning” is set, and none of the above-described gaming states advantageous to the player is set (setting of the “missing symbol” in the subsequent stage).

The variation pattern selection unit 235 selects the variation pattern of the special symbol displayed on the first special symbol display 221 or the second special symbol display 222 when the lottery result of the special symbol is “big hit”. Further, it is determined whether or not a reach effect is to be performed. The “reach effect” here is an effect performed by the image display unit 114 or the like for causing the player to expect a big hit.
The game progress control unit 236 controls the progress of the game in each game state.

When the normal symbol lottery is performed, the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether the normal symbol lottery result is “winning or not”. Further, the fluctuation of the normal symbol is controlled according to the lottery result.
When it is determined as “winning”, the electric tulip 123 is opened for a specified time (for example, 6 seconds) and for a specified number of times (for example, 3 times), and the winning probability of the game ball to the second start port 122 is increased. generate. In addition, when it is determined as “displacement”, such an open state of the electric tulip 123 is not generated.

The special winning opening operation control unit 238 controls the opening operation of the special winning opening 125.
The electric tulip operation control unit 239 controls the opening operation of the electric tulip 123.
The prize ball processing unit 240 controls the management of the number of prizes received for various types of winnings and lotteries, and controls the payout of prize balls according to the prizes.
The output control unit 241 controls the output of control commands from the game control unit 200 to the effect control unit 300 and the payout control unit 400.
The random number control unit 242 controls updating of various random number values used in processing by the main control unit and the sub control unit.

[Basic operation of gaming machine]
Next, the basic operation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 configured as described above will be described.
The basic operation of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is performed by a game control unit 200 that is a main control means. Then, under the control of the game control unit 200, the effect control unit 300, which is a sub-control means, controls the game effect, and the payout control unit 400 controls the payout of the prize ball.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing main operations of the game control unit 200.
The game control unit 200 repeatedly executes each process shown in FIG. 5 at regular time intervals (for example, 4 milliseconds) during a normal operation except for special cases such as when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. Referring to FIG. 5, random number update processing, start port switch (SW) processing, gate switch (SW) processing, special symbol processing, normal symbol processing, big prize opening processing, electric tulip (electric chew) processing, prize ball processing, Output processing is sequentially executed (steps 501 to 509).

In the random number update process (step 501), the random number control unit 242 of the game control unit 200 updates various random number values used in the process by the main control unit and the sub control unit. Details of the setting of the random number and the update of the random value will be described later.
In the start port switch process (step 502), the special symbol lottery unit 231 of the game control unit 200 monitors the states of the first start port switch 211 and the second start port switch 212 in FIG. In this case, a special symbol lottery process is executed. Details of the start port switch process will be described later.
In the gate switch process (step 503), the normal symbol lottery unit 232 of the game control unit 200 monitors the state of the gate switch 214 in FIG. 3, and performs the process for the normal symbol lottery when the switch is turned on. Execute. Details of the gate switch processing will be described later.
In the special symbol processing (step 504), the special symbol variation control unit 233, the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234, the variation pattern selection unit 235, and the game progress control unit 236 of the game control unit 200 perform the special symbol variation and the symbol variation. Processing associated with is performed. Details of the special symbol process will be described later.
In the normal symbol process (step 505), the normal symbol control unit 237 of the game control unit 200 performs the normal symbol variation and the process associated with the symbol variation. Details of the normal symbol processing will be described later.
In the special prize opening process (step 506), the special prize opening operation control unit 238 of the game control unit 200 controls the opening operation of the special prize opening 125 based on a predetermined condition. Detailed contents of the big prize opening process will be described later.
In the electric tulip process (step 507), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 of the game control unit 200 controls the opening operation of the electric tulip 123 based on a predetermined condition. Details of the electric tulip process will be described later.
In the prize ball processing (step 508), the prize ball processing unit 240 of the game control unit 200 controls the management of the number of winning prizes and the payout of prize balls according to the winning prize.
In the output process (step 509), the output control unit 241 of the game control unit 200 outputs a control command to the effect control unit 300 and the payout control unit 400. The control command is generated in each process up to step 508, set in the RAM 203, and output in this output process.

[Start-up switch processing in game control unit]
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the contents of the start port switch process (step 502 in FIG. 5).
In the start port switch process, the special symbol lottery unit 231 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the start port switches 211 and 212 are turned ON by winning a game ball in the start ports 121 and 122 ( Step 601). If the start port switches 211 and 212 are turned ON, then the special symbol lottery unit 231 determines whether or not the number U of unreserved reservations is less than the upper limit value (step 602). In the example shown in FIG. 6, the upper limit value is four. If the number of holds U has reached the upper limit (No in step 602), the winning portion for the undrawn lots cannot be held any longer, and the start port switch process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the number of reservations U is less than the upper limit (Yes in step 602), the special symbol lottery unit 231 next adds 1 to the value of the number of reservations U (step 603). Then, a random value for the lottery by the current winning is obtained and held in the RAM 203 (step 604). Here, since the winning of the start ports 121 and 122 is won, random values for special symbol lottery (a jackpot random number, a jackpot symbol random number, a reach random number, a variation pattern random number, etc.) are acquired. The random value acquired at this time is the value updated by the random number update process in step 501. And the result of the special symbol lottery is determined by this random number value.

[Gate switch processing in game control unit]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the contents of the gate switch process (step 503 in FIG. 5).
In this gate switch process, the normal symbol lottery unit 232 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the game ball passes through the gate 124 and the gate switch 214 is turned on (step 701). If the gate switch 214 is turned on, then the normal symbol lottery unit 232 determines whether or not the number of holds G for the undrawn lot is less than the upper limit value (step 702). In the example shown in FIG. 7, the upper limit value is four. If the number of holds G has reached the upper limit (No in Step 702), the winning for the undrawn lots cannot be held any more, so the gate switch process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the number of reservations G is less than the upper limit (Yes in Step 702), the normal symbol lottery unit 232 next adds 1 to the value of the number of reservations G (Step 703). Then, a random value for the lottery by the current winning is acquired and held in the RAM 203 (step 704). Here, since the gate 124 is won, a random number value (such as a winning random number) for normal symbol lottery is acquired.

[Special symbol processing in game control unit]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the contents of the special symbol process (step 504 in FIG. 5).
In this special symbol process, the special symbol variation control unit 233 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is hit (step 801). Here, “winning” includes jackpot (special symbol lottery) and jackpot. If it is a win, since a special symbol representing some big hit has already been selected and stopped, the special symbol process is terminated without starting the special symbol variation (Yes in step 801). On the other hand, if it is not a win (No in Step 801), the special symbol variation control unit 233 determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the special symbol variation (Step 802). If the special symbol is not changing (No in step 802), the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 determines whether the number U of unreserved special symbols (see FIG. 6) is 1 or more (step 803). If the number of holdings U = 0 (No in step 803), it means that there is no winning for starting the special symbol lottery, and therefore the processing is terminated without starting the special symbol variation.

  On the other hand, when the number of holdings U is 1 or more (Yes in Step 803), the special symbol fluctuation control unit 233 subtracts 1 from the value of the holding number U (Step 804), and then the big hit determination process by another routine Then, the variation pattern selection process is executed (steps 805 and 806). As will be described in detail later, setting information (design, game state, variation pattern, etc.) included in the variation start command sent to the effect control unit 300 is determined by the jackpot determination processing and variation pattern selection processing.

  Thereafter, the special symbol variation control unit 233 generates a variation start command including the setting information determined by the jackpot determination process and the variation pattern selection process, and sets it in the RAM 203 (step 807). Then, based on this setting information, the special symbols on the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222 shown in FIG. 3 start to change (step 808), and the special symbols are set for the time set in the change pattern. In order to perform the fluctuation, measurement of the fluctuation time is started (step 809). The variation start command set in step 807 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 509 of FIG.

  Next, when it is determined in step 802 that the special symbol is changing (Yes in step 802), the special symbol variation control unit 233 determines whether or not the variation time has ended (step 810). That is, it is determined whether or not the variation time started in step 809 has reached the variation time set in the variation pattern selection process in step 806. If the variation time has not ended (No in step 810), the special symbol variation is continued, and the special symbol processing is terminated as it is.

  On the other hand, when the variation time has ended (Yes in step 810), the special symbol variation control unit 233 first sets a variation stop command in the RAM 203 (step 811). Next, the special symbol variation control unit 233 ends the variation of the special symbols in the first special symbol display 221 and the second special symbol display 222 (step 812), and resets the measured variation time (step 812). 813). Then, a stop routine process of another routine is executed (step 814). The contents of the stop process will be described later. The variable stop command set in step 811 is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 by the output process shown in step 509 of FIG.

[Big hit judgment processing by game control unit]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the contents of the jackpot determination process (step 805 in FIG. 8).
In this jackpot determination process, the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 of the game control unit 200 first determines a jackpot random number in the current special symbol lottery (step 901), and determines whether or not the jackpot has been won (step 902). ). Whether or not the jackpot has been won is determined by determining whether or not the value of the jackpot random number acquired in step 604 of FIG. 6 matches the value set as the winning value of the jackpot.

If the big win is determined in step 901 (Yes in step 902), then the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 determines a big hit symbol random number (step 903). In this determination, it is first determined whether or not the winning probability of the special symbol lottery is changed (probability change or probability change) (step 904). Whether or not the probability fluctuates is determined by determining whether or not the value of the jackpot symbol random number acquired in step 604 of FIG. 6 matches a preset value.
When the probability changes (Yes in Step 904), the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 next determines whether or not to shorten the symbol variation time (time reduction, time reduction) (Step 905). Whether or not the time is shortened is determined by determining whether or not the value of the jackpot symbol random number acquired in step 604 of FIG. 6 matches a preset value, in the same manner as the determination of the probability variation.

  After the above determination, when the time is shortened (Yes in step 905), the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 sets a symbol (hereinafter referred to as a specific symbol A) indicating a big hit with probability fluctuation and time reduction. Information is set in the RAM 203 (step 906). When the time is not shortened (No in step 905), a symbol (hereinafter, specific symbol B) representing a big hit with probability variation but not time reduction is set in the RAM 203 as setting information (step 907). If the probability does not fluctuate (No in step 904), a symbol (hereinafter referred to as a normal symbol) indicating that the game is a big hit with time reduction but no probability variation is set in the RAM 203 as setting information (step 908).

When the big hit is not made (No in step 902), the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 next judges whether or not the big hit is made (step 909). Whether or not the jackpot is determined is determined by determining whether or not the value of the jackpot random number acquired in step 604 of FIG. 6 matches the value set as the winning value of the jackpot, as in the case of the jackpot determination. Is done.
If the special symbol lottery result determination unit 234 is a small hit (Yes in Step 909), the symbol (henceforth, a small hit symbol) indicating that there is no probability change or time reduction is set in the RAM 203 as setting information. Set (step 910). If it is not a small hit (No in step 909), a symbol indicating that the lottery is lost (hereinafter referred to as a lost symbol) is set in the RAM 203 as setting information (step 911).

[Change pattern selection process by game control unit]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the contents of the variation pattern selection process (step 806 in FIG. 8).
In this variation pattern selection process, the variation pattern selection unit 235 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not a big win has been won in this special symbol lottery (step 1001). This determination is the same as step 901 of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9) (the determination result of step 901 may be used). If it is a big hit (Yes in Step 1001), the fluctuation pattern selection unit 235 reads the big hit fluctuation pattern table from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (Step 1002).

On the other hand, if the jackpot has not been won (No in step 1001), the variation pattern selection unit 235 then determines a random number for determining whether or not to perform a so-called reach effect for causing the player to expect a jackpot. (Step 1003). Whether or not the reach effect is performed is determined by determining whether or not the reach random number value acquired in step 604 of FIG. 6 matches a preset value.
As a result of determination using random numbers, when a reach effect is performed (Yes in Step 1004), the variation pattern selection unit 235 reads a variation pattern table for reach from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (Step 1005). When the reach effect is not performed (No in Step 1004), the variation pattern selection unit 235 reads the variation pattern table for loss from the ROM 202 and sets it in the RAM 203 (Step 1006).
Here, the fluctuation pattern table is a table in which a plurality of fluctuation patterns (fluctuation time 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 60 seconds, 90 seconds, etc.) prepared in advance are associated with values of fluctuation pattern random numbers.

  Next, the variation pattern selection unit 235 acquires a random number (variation pattern random number) for determining the variation pattern, and stores it in the RAM 203 (step 1007). Then, the fluctuation pattern random number is determined using the fluctuation pattern table set in steps 1002, 1005, and 1006 (step 1008). That is, the variation pattern selection unit 235 refers to the variation pattern table set in the RAM 203 and selects a variation pattern according to the random number value acquired in Step 1007. Therefore, even if the same random number value is acquired, the variation referred to depending on the state difference such as whether or not the result of the special symbol lottery is a big hit or not and whether or not a reach effect is performed if it is not a big hit Since the pattern tables are different, the determined variation pattern may be different.

  Thereafter, the variation pattern selection unit 235 sets the variation pattern selected in Step 1008 in the RAM 203 as setting information (Step 1009). The variation pattern setting information set in step 1009 is included in the variation start command set in step 807 of FIG. 8, and is transmitted to the effect control unit 300 in the output process shown in step 509 of FIG.

[Processing during stop by game control unit]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the contents of the stop process (step 814 in FIG. 8).
In the suspension process, the game progress control unit 236 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not a big win has been won in the current special symbol lottery (step 1101). If it is a big hit (Yes in step 1101), the game progress control unit 236 next determines whether or not the type of the big win is a long win (step 1102).
These determinations can be made based on, for example, the symbol type set in the setting information in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9). Here, the jackpot of the specific symbol A and the normal symbol is a long hit, and the jackpot of the specific symbol B is a short hit. Therefore, if the specific symbol A or the normal symbol is set in the setting information, “Yes” in both steps 1101 and 1102. If the specific symbol B is set, Yes in step 1101 and No in step 1102. If the off symbol or the small hit symbol is set, No in step 1101. Since these determinations are substantially the same as steps 902, 904, and 905 of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9), the determination results of steps 902, 904, and 905 may be used.

  When the jackpot type is a long win (Yes in step 1102), the game progress control unit 236 turns on a flag (long hit game flag) for identifying that the game is a long win game (step 1103). . Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes the gaming state per long. Note that, as described above, the presence / absence of probability fluctuation is not distinguished here per unit length. These are specified by turning on the corresponding flag in the big hit game end process (FIG. 13-2) in the big prize opening process (FIG. 13-1) described later.

  Next, the game progress control unit 236 sets a long hit game start command for starting a long hit game in the RAM 203 (step 1104), and identifies the probability change game at the time short game or the probability change. The flags (time-short game flag, probability change game flag, latent probability change game flag) are turned OFF (step 1105), and the stop process is terminated. Note that the operation for turning on the short-time game flag, the probability variation game flag, and the latent probability variation game flag is performed in the big hit game end process (FIG. 13-2) in the big prize opening process (FIG. 13-1) described later.

If the jackpot type is not long hit (No in step 1102), the game progress control unit 236 turns on a flag (short hit game flag) for identifying that it is a short hit game (step 1106). . Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes a short hit gaming state.
Next, the game progress control unit 236 sets a short hit game start command for starting a short win game in the RAM 203 (step 1107), and turns OFF the short-time game flag, the probability change game flag, and the latent probability change game flag ( Step 1105), the stop process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the result of the special symbol lottery this time is not a big hit (No in step 1101), the game progress control unit 236 next determines whether or not the short-time game flag is ON in the setting of the game state in the RAM 203. Check (step 1108). When the short-time game flag is ON (Yes in Step 1108), the game progress control unit 236 subtracts 1 from the value of the number of lotteries (number of fluctuations) J in the short-time game state, which will be described later (Step 1109). It is checked whether or not becomes 0 (step 1110). If the number of times of lottery J = 0 (Yes in Step 1110), the time-saving game flag is turned OFF (Step 1111). The initial value of the lottery number J is set in a big hit game end process (FIG. 13-2) in a special prize opening process (FIG. 13-1) described later.

  If the short-time game flag is OFF (No in Step 1108), or after being turned OFF in Step 1111 or if the value of the number of lottery J is not 0 (No in Step 1110), the game progress control unit 236 then It is checked whether or not the probability variation game flag is ON in the setting of the game state in the RAM 203 (step 1112). Here, it is assumed that the latent probability variation game is also included in the probability variation game. That is, in step 1112, it is determined whether either the probability variation game flag or the latent probability variation game flag is ON.

  When the probability variation game flag (or the latent probability variation game flag) is ON (Yes in step 1112), the game progress control unit 236 subtracts 1 from the value of the number of lotteries (number of variations) X in the probability variation game state described later ( Step 1113), it is checked whether or not the number of times of lottery X has become 0 (Step 1114). If the number of lotteries X = 0 (Yes in Step 1114), the probability variation game flag (or the latent probability variation game flag) is turned OFF (Step 1115). Note that the initial value of the lottery number X is set in a big hit game end process (FIG. 13-2) in a special prize opening process (FIG. 13-1) described later.

If the probability variation game flag (or the latent probability variation game flag) is OFF (No in Step 1112), or after being turned OFF in Step 1115, or if the value of the number of lotteries X is not 0 (No in Step 1114), then The game progress control unit 236 determines whether or not the result of the special symbol lottery this time is a small hit (step 1116). If it is not a small hit (No in step 1116), the in-stop process is terminated.
On the other hand, if it is a small hit (Yes in step 1116), the game progress control unit 236 turns on a flag (small hit game flag) for identifying that it is a small hit game (step 1117). Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes the small hit gaming state. Then, the game progress control unit 236 sets a small hit game start command for starting the small hit game in the RAM 203 (step 1118), and ends the in-stop process.

[Normal symbol processing by game control unit]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the contents of normal symbol processing (step 505 in FIG. 5).
In this normal symbol processing, the normal symbol control unit 237 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in an auxiliary game (a winning of normal symbol lottery) (step 1201). If it is during the auxiliary game, since the normal symbol is already selected and stopped, the normal symbol process is terminated without starting the normal symbol variation (Yes in step 1201). On the other hand, when the auxiliary game is not being performed (No in Step 1201), the normal symbol control unit 237 next determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is changing the normal symbol (Step 1202). If the normal symbol is not changing (No in Step 1202), then the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether or not the number G of reserved symbols for the undrawn normal symbol (see FIG. 7) is 1 or more (Step 1203). If the number of holds G = 0 (No in step 1203), it means that there is no winning for starting the normal symbol lottery, and therefore the processing is terminated without starting the normal symbol variation.

  On the other hand, when the reserved number G is 1 or more (Yes in step 1203), the normal symbol control unit 237 subtracts 1 from the value of the reserved number G (step 1204), and the normal random number lottery in this normal symbol lottery A determination is made (step 1205), and it is determined whether or not the normal symbol lottery is won (step 1206). Whether or not the game is won is determined by determining whether or not the value of the winning random number acquired in step 704 in FIG. 7 matches the value set as the winning value. When the normal symbol lottery is won (Yes in Step 1206), the normal symbol control unit 237 sets a symbol representing the winning (hereinafter referred to as a winning symbol) in the RAM 203 as setting information (Step 1207). On the other hand, when the normal symbol lottery is not won (No in step 1206), the normal symbol control unit 237 sets a symbol indicating that the lottery has been lost (hereinafter referred to as a lost symbol) in the RAM 203 as setting information (step 1208). ).

  Next, the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether or not the current operation state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 corresponds to either a probability change game state (not including a latent probability change game state) or a time-short game state (step). 1209). When it corresponds to one of the gaming states (Yes in Step 1209), the normal symbol control unit 237 sets the fluctuation time of the normal symbol variation to a short time (Step 1210). In the example shown in FIG. 12, it is set to 3 seconds. On the other hand, when the current operation state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 does not correspond to either the probability variation gaming state or the short-time gaming state (No in step 1209), the normal symbol control unit 237 increases the variation time of the normal symbol variation. Time is set (step 1211). In the example shown in FIG. 12, it is set to 29 seconds.

  Thereafter, the normal symbol control unit 237 starts normal symbol fluctuations in the normal symbol display 223 shown in FIG. 3 based on the setting contents of step 1207 or step 1208 (step 1212). Further, in order to perform normal symbol variation for the time set in step 1210 or step 1211, measurement of the variation time is started (step 1213).

  Next, when it is determined in step 1202 that the normal symbol is changing (Yes in step 1202), the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether or not the fluctuation time has ended (step 1214). That is, it is determined whether or not the variation time started in step 1213 has reached the variation time set in step 1210 or step 1211. If the fluctuation time has not ended (No in step 1214), the normal symbol variation is continued, so that the normal symbol processing is ended as it is.

  On the other hand, when the fluctuation time is over (Yes in step 1214), the normal symbol control unit 237 first ends the fluctuation of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display unit 223 (step 1215), and resets the measured fluctuation time. (Step 1216). Next, the normal symbol control unit 237 determines whether or not the winning is made based on the normal symbol which has been stopped after the change (step 1217). If the winning is made (Yes in Step 1217), the auxiliary game operation control is started (Step 1218). On the other hand, if the lottery is off (No in step 1217), the normal symbol processing is terminated while maintaining the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100.

[Large winning prize processing by game control unit]
FIG. 13A is a flowchart showing the contents of the special winning opening process (step 506 in FIG. 5).
In this special winning opening process, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is hit (step 1301). Here, “winning” includes jackpots and jackpots. If it is not a win, there is no winning in the big winning opening 125, and the big winning opening process is ended (No in step 1301). On the other hand, if it is a win (Yes in step 1301), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 then performs the opening operation in the operation control at the time of the big hit started in the process in which the pachinko gaming machine 100 is stopped (FIG. 11). It is determined whether it is in the middle (step 1302).

  When the pachinko gaming machine 100 is opening (Yes in Step 1302), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 next determines whether or not a predetermined time for opening operation (opening time) has elapsed. Judgment is made (step 1303). If the opening time has not elapsed, the opening operation at the special winning opening 125 is continued, and the special winning opening process is terminated (No in step 1303). On the other hand, if the opening time has elapsed (Yes in step 1303), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 then adds 1 to the value of the open round number R of the special winning opening 125 from the current value (step 1304). Then, the special winning opening 125 is opened (step 1305).

  Next, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the open state at the special winning opening 125 has passed a preset time (opening time) (step 1306). If the open state at the big prize opening 125 has not passed the opening time (No in step 1306), then the big prize opening operation control unit 238 determines whether the number C of winning prizes to the big prize opening 125 is 9 or more. Is determined (step 1307). When the open state at the big prize opening 125 has not passed the opening time and the winning number C is less than 9, the open state of the big prize opening 125 is continued, so the big prize opening process is terminated. (No in step 1307). On the other hand, if the open state of the special winning opening 125 has passed the opening time (Yes in Step 1306) or the winning number C has reached nine (Yes in Step 1307), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 The big prize opening 125 is closed (step 1308).

  Next, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the number of open rounds R of the special winning opening 125 has reached a preset maximum value (step 1309). If the maximum value has not been reached, since the operation control at the time of the big hit is continued, the big winning opening process is terminated (No in step 1309). The maximum value is set according to the type of jackpot specified by the specific symbol set in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9). For example, the maximum value is set to 15 rounds for the jackpot of the specific symbol A and the normal symbol, and the maximum value is set to two rounds for the jackpot of the specific symbol B.

  If the number R of open rounds of the big prize opening 125 reaches the maximum value (Yes in step 1309), the big prize opening operation control unit 238 then resets the number of open rounds R to 0 (step 1310), The ending operation in the operation control is started (step 1311). Thereafter, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not an elapsed time from the start of the ending operation has passed a predetermined time (ending time) for the ending operation to be performed (step 1312). If the ending time has not elapsed, the ending operation is continued, and thus the big prize opening process is terminated (No in step 1312). On the other hand, if the ending time has elapsed (Yes in step 1312), the big prize opening operation control unit 238 performs the big hit game end process and then ends the big prize opening process (step 1313). The contents of the big hit game end process will be described later.

  If it is determined in step 1302 that the pachinko gaming machine 100 is not open (No in step 1302), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the special winning opening 125 is open (step). 1314). If it is being opened, the operations after step 1306 are executed (Yes in step 1314).

  If the big prize opening 125 is not open (No in step 1314), the big prize opening operation control unit 238 next determines whether or not the pachinko gaming machine 100 is ending (step 1315). If the ending is in progress, the operation after step 1312 is executed (Yes in step 1315).

  When the pachinko gaming machine 100 is not in the ending (No in step 1315), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 next performs an open round execution interval (interval) in which the elapsed time after closing the special winning opening 125 is set in advance. It is determined whether or not (time) has elapsed (step 1316). If the interval time has not elapsed, the next open round is not yet performed, and thus the big prize opening process is terminated (No in step 1316). On the other hand, if the elapsed time after closing the special winning opening 125 has passed the interval time, the operation after step 1304 is executed in order to perform the next open round (Yes in step 1316).

[Processing at the end of jackpot game]
FIG. 13-2 shows the contents of the jackpot game end process (step 1313) executed when the ending time has elapsed (Yes in step 1312).
As shown in FIG. 13B, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 first turns OFF the long winning game flag turned ON in Step 1103 of FIG. 11 or the short winning game flag turned ON in Step 1106 ( Step 1317).

  Next, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not the winning determined in Step 1301 of FIG. 13-1 is a small winning (Step 1318). If it is a small hit (Yes in step 1318), the big hit game end process is terminated. If it is not a small hit (No in step 1318), it is determined whether or not the hit determined in step 1301 of FIG. 13-1 is a normal big hit (step 1319). If it is a normal jackpot (Yes in step 1319), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 turns on the short-time game flag (step 1320). Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes the short-time gaming state. In addition, the big winning opening operation control unit 238 sets an initial value of the lottery number J (step 1321), and ends the big hit game end process. The initial value of the lottery number J is 100 in the illustrated example. Therefore, if the lottery in the short-time gaming state is performed 100 times, the short-time gaming state ends.

  When the winning determined in step 1301 of FIG. 13-1 is not the normal big hit (No in step 1319), the big winning opening operation control unit 238 determines whether or not this win is a probable big hit (step 1322). Here, the probable jackpot is a jackpot that generates a probability variation in the long hit, and corresponds to the jackpot in the specific symbol A.

  When it is a probable big hit (Yes in step 1322), the special winning opening operation control unit 238 turns on the probable change game flag (step 1323). Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes the probability-changing gaming state and the short-time gaming state. On the other hand, if it is not a probable jackpot (No in step 1322), the type of jackpot is a short hit, that is, a jackpot for the specific symbol B (normal jackpot or neither jackpot for the specific symbol A). Therefore, the special winning opening operation control unit 238 turns on the latent probability changing game flag (step 1324). Thereby, the setting of the gaming state in the RAM 203 becomes the probability-changing gaming state (not accompanied by the short-time gaming state).

  After setting the probability variation game flag or the latent probability variation game flag to ON, the big prize opening operation control unit 238 sets an initial value of the number of lotteries X (step 1325), and ends the big hit game end process. The initial value of the lottery number X is 1000 in the illustrated example. Therefore, if the lottery is performed 1000 times in the probability variation gaming state (or probability variation gaming state + time short gaming state), the probability variation gaming state (or probability variation gaming state + time short gaming state) ends.

[Electric tulip processing by game control unit]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the contents of the electric tulip process (step 507 in FIG. 5).
In the electric tulip process, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 of the game control unit 200 first determines whether or not the current state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in an auxiliary game (step 1401). When the auxiliary game is not being performed, the electric tulip 123 is not opened, and thus the electric tulip process is terminated (No in step 1401). On the other hand, when the auxiliary game is being performed (Yes in step 1401), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 determines whether the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the middle of the opening operation in the operation control during the auxiliary game (step). 1402).

  If the pachinko gaming machine 100 is opening (Yes in Step 1402), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 then determines whether or not a predetermined time (opening time) for performing the opening operation has elapsed. (Step 1403). If the opening time has not elapsed, the opening operation is continued, and the electric tulip process is terminated (No in step 1403). On the other hand, if the opening time has elapsed (Yes in step 1403), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 then determines whether the current operation state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is a probability change game state (not including a latent probability change game state) or a time reduction. It is determined whether or not one of the gaming states is applicable (step 1404). If one of the gaming states is applicable (Yes in Step 1404), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 sets the opening time of the electric tulip 123 to a long time (Step 1405). In the example shown in FIG. 14, it is set to 3.5 seconds. On the other hand, when the current operation state of the pachinko gaming machine 100 does not correspond to either the probability variation gaming state or the short-time gaming state (No in step 1404), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 sets the opening time of the electric tulip 123. A short time is set (step 1406). In the example shown in FIG. 14, it is set to 0.2 seconds.

  Thereafter, the electric tulip operation control unit 239 opens the electric tulip 123 (step 1407), measures the elapsed time after the release, and determines whether or not the opening time set in step 1405 or step 1406 has elapsed. Judgment is made (step 1408). If the opening time has not elapsed, the opening of the electric tulip 123 is continued, and the electric tulip process is terminated (No in step 1408).

  On the other hand, if the elapsed time after the release of the electric tulip 123 has passed the opening time (Yes in step 1408), the electric tulip operation control unit 239 then closes the electric tulip 123 (step 1409), and during auxiliary games The operation control is finished and the electric tulip process is finished (step 1410).

[Random number judgment method]
Here, a determination method using random numbers performed in the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9), the variation pattern selection process (FIG. 10), the normal symbol process (FIG. 12), and the like will be described in detail.
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of random numbers used in the present embodiment.
15A shows a configuration example of a jackpot random number, FIG. 15B shows a configuration example of a jackpot design random number, FIG. 15C shows a configuration example of a reach random number, and FIG. Configuration examples are shown respectively.

  Referring to FIG. 15 (a), the jackpot random number is set to two types of jackpots when the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the normal gaming state and jackpots when the pachinko gaming machine 100 is in the probabilistic gaming state, and the jackpot. The range of values of random numbers (big hit random numbers) is 300 from 0 to 299. In the case of a big hit in the normal gaming state, only one winning value is set, and the winning probability is 1/300. Further, in the case of a big hit in the probability variation gaming state, 10 winning values are set, and the winning probability is 10/300 (= 1/30). That is, in the example shown in the figure, if the winning symbols 121 and 122 are won and the special symbol lottery is performed in the probability variation gaming state, the winning probability is 10 times that in the case where the special symbol lottery is performed in the normal gaming state. In the case of small hits, three winning values are set, and the winning probability is 3/300 (= 1/100).

  Referring to FIG. 15B, three types of jackpot symbols are prepared: a normal symbol, a specific symbol A, and a specific symbol B. Here, as described in the explanation of the jackpot determination process (FIG. 9), the normal symbol is a symbol indicating that it is a jackpot without probability variation, and the specific symbol A is a jackpot with probability variation and time reduction. The specific symbol B is a symbol indicating that it is a big hit with a probability variation but not with a time reduction. The range of random number values is 10 from 0 to 9. Four values are assigned to each of the normal symbol and the specific symbol A. Two values are assigned to the specific symbol B. That is, in the example shown in the figure, the probability of probability variation is 6/10 (= 4/10 + 2/10 = 3/5) and the probability of probability variation is 4/10 (= 2/5) in the case of a big hit. In the example shown in the figure, the jackpot symbol is a total of three types including the normal symbol and the two specific symbols. However, the jackpot symbol may be classified into four or more types and assigned a random value.

  Referring to FIG. 15C, the range of random number values is 250 from 0 to 249, and 22 random numbers are assigned to the lottery result (with reach) for performing the reach effect, and the lottery without the reach effect is performed. 228 random numbers are assigned to the result (no reach). In other words, in the illustrated example, when a special symbol lottery is not won, a reach effect is performed with a probability of 22/250 (= 11/125).

  Referring to FIG. 15D, the range of random number values is 10 from 0 to 9, and 9 winning values are set. That is, in the example shown in the figure, when a game ball passes through the gate 124 and a normal symbol lottery is performed, the winning is performed with a probability of 9/10.

  These random number values start from a predetermined initial value and are incremented by one each time the random number update process (step 501) shown in FIG. 5 is performed. Then, the values at the time each lottery is performed are acquired by the start opening switch process (FIG. 6) and the gate switch process (FIG. 7), and used in the special symbol process (FIG. 8) and the normal symbol process (FIG. 12). The This counter is an infinite loop counter, and returns to 0 again after reaching the maximum value of the set random number (for example, 299 for the big hit random number). In addition, since the random number update process is performed at regular intervals, if the initial value of each random number is specified, the winning value may be estimated based on such information. Therefore, in general, a mechanism for randomly changing the initial value of each random number at an appropriate timing has been introduced.

[Operation of production control unit]
Next, the operation of the effect control unit 300 will be described.
16 to 19 are flowcharts showing the operation of the effect control unit 300 when a command is received from the game control unit 200.
FIG. 16 shows the main operation of the effect control unit 300.
As shown in FIG. 16, when the effect control unit 300 receives a command from the game control unit 200, the effect control unit 300 performs a command reception process (step 1601). Thereby, the production pattern is selected. Then, the effect control unit 300 performs a command transmission process for transmitting a command including information on the selected effect pattern to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320 (step 1602). As a result, effects such as image display on the image display unit 114, sound output, operation of the movable accessory 115, light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 are performed.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the contents of the command reception process (step 1601 in FIG. 16).
In this command reception process, the production control unit 300 first determines whether or not the received command is a change start command (step 1701). When it is a change start command (Yes in Step 1701), the effect control unit 300 executes an effect selection process (Step 1702). Details of the effect selection process will be described later.

  When the received command is not a change start command (No in Step 1701), or when a command is received after the effect selection process in Step 1702 is executed, the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the received command is a change end command. (Step 1703). If it is a change end command (Yes in Step 1703), the effect control unit 300 sets the change end command in the RAM 303 (Step 1704).

  When the received command is not the variation start command and the variation end command (No in Step 1701 and Step 1703), or when the command is received after the variation end command is set in Step 1704, the effect control unit 300 determines that the received command is a big hit It is determined whether or not it is an opening command for starting the opening in the production (step 1705). When it is an opening command (Yes in Step 1705), the effect control unit 300 executes a hit effect selection process (Step 1706). Details of the winning effect selection process will be described later.

  When the received command is not a variation start command, variation end command, or opening command (No in Step 1701, Step 1703, and Step 1705), or when a command is received after execution of the hit effect selection process in Step 1706, the effect control unit 300 Judges whether the received command is an ending command for starting the ending in the jackpot effect (step 1707). If it is an ending command (Yes in Step 1707), the effect control unit 300 sets the ending command in the RAM 303 (Step 1708).

  When the received command is not a fluctuation start command, a fluctuation end command, an opening command, and an ending command (No in Step 1701, Step 1703, Step 1705, and Step 1707), or when a command is received after the setting of the ending command in Step 1708, Next, the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the received command is a customer waiting command for shifting to a customer waiting state (step 1709). If the command is a customer waiting command, the effect control unit 300 starts measuring the elapsed time (step 1710), and turns on the measurement flag in the RAM 303 (step 1711). On the other hand, if the received command is not a customer waiting command, it is determined whether or not the measurement flag held in the RAM 303 is ON (step 1712). If the measurement flag is OFF (No in step 1712), the command reception process is terminated.

  When the measurement flag is ON (Yes in Step 1712), the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the measurement time has reached a predetermined time-up time (Step 1713). If the time is not up (No in step 1713), the command receiving process is terminated. On the other hand, when the time is up (Yes in step 1713), the production control unit 300 sets a customer waiting production command for performing the customer waiting production in the RAM 303 (step 1714), and turns off the measurement flag held in the RAM 303. Then, the command receiving process is terminated (step 1715).

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the contents of the effect selection process (step 1702) of FIG.
In this effect selection process, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received variation start command (step 1801). Further, the current operation mode of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is referred to from the setting of the RAM 303 (step 1802). Then, based on the analysis result of the change start command and the information on the operation mode, the effect control unit 300 selects an effect pattern (symbol effect pattern) of the design effect based on the image displayed on the image display unit 114 in the operation mode (step 1803). Finally, the effect control unit 300 reads image data and sound data used for the effect by the selected effect pattern from the ROM 302, and sets a symbol effect command for instructing the selected effect in the RAM 303 together with these data. The selection process is terminated (step 1804).

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the contents of the hit effect selection process (step 1706) in FIG.
In the winning effect selection process, the effect control unit 300 first analyzes the received opening command (step 1901), and resets the operation mode of the pachinko gaming machine 100 based on the information included in the opening command (step 1902). . Then, the effect control unit 300 selects an effect pattern (hit effect pattern) of the jackpot effect in the new operation mode based on the information obtained from the opening command (step 1903). Finally, the effect control unit 300 reads image data and sound data used for the effect by the selected effect pattern from the ROM 302, and sets a hit effect command instructing the selected effect in the RAM 303 together with these data. The selection process is terminated (step 1904).

  When the command reception process is completed as described above, any one of the symbol effect command, the variation end command, the winning effect command, and the ending command is set in the RAM 303. Thereafter, the effect control unit 300 performs the command transmission process (step 1602) of FIG. 16 and transmits the set command to the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320. Then, the image / sound control unit 310 and the lamp control unit 320 display an image on the image display unit 114, sound output, operation of the movable accessory 115, light emission of the panel lamp 116 and the frame lamp 157 based on the received command. Is controlled to execute the set effect.

  Here, the game control unit 200 and the effect control unit 300 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment are unlikely to distinguish between the case where the game state is the probability change game state and the case where the game state is the normal game state. Control to do. As such a probability variation latent effect, in this embodiment, as described below, a plurality of stage effects are performed in accordance with the degree (level) of the possibility that the game state is a probability variation game state.

[Stage production in the image display section]
Next, stage effects in the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment will be described.
FIG. 20 is a diagram showing the relative positioning of each of the plurality of stages in the probability variation expectation. The probability change expectation here indicates the degree of possibility that the game state is a probability change game state (latent probability change game state).
The pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment includes a stage image or video displayed as an effect on the image display unit 114. Referring to the figure, six stages of stage A, stage B, stage C, stage D, stage E, and stage F are prepared in advance. When the stage lottery is performed, the stage displayed on the image display unit 114 shifts to another stage.

First, the types of stages displayed as effects on the image display unit 114 will be described.
Referring to the figure, the probability variation expectation is associated with each of the stages A to F. That is, stage A has the highest degree of expected probability change, and stage B and stage C have the next highest expected probability of change. The stage with the lowest probability of expected variation is stage D, stage E, and stage F. Therefore, if a player who plays a game on the pachinko gaming machine 100 has knowledge about the probability change expectation that each of the stages A to F means, the gaming state is confirmed by checking the stage displayed on the image display unit 114. It is possible to estimate whether or not is in a probable game state.

  In the following, stage A will be referred to as “upper stage”, stage B and stage C as “middle stage”, and stage D, stage E and stage F as “lower stage”. The upper stage is an example of a first latent effect indicating that the possibility that the internal state is a high probability state is the first level, and the intermediate stage may be a case where the internal state is a high probability state. It is an example of the 2nd latent production which shows that it is the 2nd level lower than the 1st level, and a lower stage is 3rd where possibility that an internal state is a high probability state is lower than a 2nd level. It is an example of the 3rd latent production which shows that it is the level of.

Here, when the gaming state is the normal gaming state, the probability variation latency effect in which the lower stage is displayed is often performed, and the probability variation latency effect in which the middle stage or the upper stage is displayed is rarely performed. On the other hand, when the gaming state becomes the probability variation gaming state, the probability variation latency effect in which the middle stage and further the upper stage are displayed is often performed, and conversely, the probability variation latency effect in which the lower stage is displayed is performed. Things will be less.
However, if the game state remains in the normal game state for a while, only the lower stages are displayed, and the player cannot have a sense of expectation that the game state may be in a probable game state. End up.
Therefore, in the present embodiment, the player can intentionally select the upper stage (stage A). When this higher stage is selected, if the player's order satisfies a predetermined condition, the stage transition (special stage transition) is performed with a special probability different from the normal stage transition. did. In this specification, the order of players refers to a player among a plurality of players who played a game from a time when power is turned on (when the store is opened) until a time when power is turned off (when the store is closed). The order of

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a random number table used for lottery for stage transition. Note that these random number tables are held in the ROM 302 of the effect control unit 300, for example.
(A) is the figure which showed the example of the stage transfer table for probability change game states referred in the normal stage transfer in case a game state is a probability change game state. In this stage transition table for probability variation gaming state, the probability of falling from the upper stage to the middle stage is 2/10, the probability of promotion from the middle stage to the upper stage is 7/10, the probability of falling from the middle stage to the lower stage Is assigned a random value so that the probability of promotion from the lower stage to the middle stage is 9/10. That is, the range of the random number value is set to 10 from 0 to 9, and the random value assignment is performed from the upper stage to the middle stage, from the middle stage to the upper stage, from the middle stage to the lower stage, and from the lower stage to the middle stage. Are assigned two, seven, one, and nine values, respectively. By doing so, it is difficult to fall to the lower stage, and it is easy to be promoted to the upper stage.

  (B) is a figure showing an example of a probability variation gaming state gasse stage transition table referred to in a special stage transition when the gaming state is a probability variation gaming state. In this probable gaming state transition stage transition table, the probability of falling from the upper stage to the middle stage is 7/10, the probability of promotion from the middle stage to the upper stage is 2/10, and the middle stage to the lower stage is dropped. Random numbers are assigned so that the probability is 6/10 and the probability of promotion from the lower stage to the middle stage is 3/10. That is, the range of the random number value is set to 10 from 0 to 9, and the random value assignment is performed from the upper stage to the middle stage, from the middle stage to the upper stage, from the middle stage to the lower stage, and from the lower stage to the middle stage. Are assigned 7, 7, 6, and 3, respectively. By doing so, it is easy to fall to the lower stage and difficult to be promoted to the upper stage. However, the degree of ease of falling and the degree of difficulty of promotion depends on the ease of falling and the difficulty of promotion in the normal game state stage transition table referenced in the normal stage transition in the normal game state shown in (c). It is looser than the degree.

  (C) is a diagram showing an example of a normal game state stage transition table referred to in the normal stage transition when the game state is the normal game state. In this normal gaming state stage transition table, the probability of falling from the upper stage to the middle stage is 8/10, the probability of promotion from the middle stage to the upper stage is 1/10, and the probability of falling from the middle stage to the lower stage. Is assigned a random value so that the probability of promotion from the lower stage to the middle stage is 1/10. That is, the range of the random number value is set to 10 from 0 to 9, and the random value assignment is performed from the upper stage to the middle stage, from the middle stage to the upper stage, from the middle stage to the lower stage, and from the lower stage to the middle stage. Are assigned values of 1, 1, 7, and 1, respectively. By doing so, it is easy to fall to the lower stage and difficult to be promoted to the upper stage.

  (D) is a diagram showing an example of a normal gaming state transition stage transition table that is referred to in a special stage transition when the gaming state is a normal gaming state. In this normal game state transition stage transition table, the probability of falling from the upper stage to the middle stage is 3/10, the probability of promotion from the middle stage to the upper stage is 5/10, and the middle stage to the lower stage is dropped. Random numbers are assigned so that the probability is 2/10 and the probability of promotion from the lower stage to the middle stage is 7/10. That is, the range of the random number value is set to 10 from 0 to 9, and the random value assignment is performed from the upper stage to the middle stage, from the middle stage to the upper stage, from the middle stage to the lower stage, and from the lower stage to the middle stage. Are assigned three, five, two, and seven values, respectively. By doing so, it is difficult to fall to the lower stage, and it is easy to be promoted to the upper stage. However, the difficulty of falling and the degree of ease of promotion are the degree of difficulty of falling and ease of promotion in the stage transition table for probability variation gaming state referred to in the normal stage transition in the probability variation gaming state shown in (a). It is looser than the degree.

  By the way, in this example, in the stage transition table for probability variation gaming state (a), setting is made such that it is difficult to fall to the lower stage and easy to be promoted to the upper stage, and (c) stage transition for normal gaming state The table is set so that it is easy to fall to the lower stage and hard to be promoted to the upper stage, but this is a natural setting given that the higher the expected change, the more the stage is produced. It is. However, since the (b) probability variation gaming state transition stage transition table and the (d) normal gaming state transition stage transition table are so-called stage transition tables, any value may be set. . For example, the same value can be set in these gasset stage transition tables.

[Stage transition table selection process in the production control unit]
FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the contents of the stage transition table selection process. In this process, a condition that the order is a multiple of 3 is used as a predetermined condition regarding the order of the players.
Referring to FIG. 22, the production control unit 300 first determines whether or not the customer waiting state continues for a predetermined time or more (step 2201). Here, whether or not the customer waiting state continues for a predetermined time or more may be determined, for example, based on whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the reception of the customer waiting command in the command reception process (see FIG. 17). If the customer waiting state does not continue for a predetermined time or longer (No in step 2201), the stage transition table selection process is terminated as it is.

  On the other hand, when the customer waiting state continues for a predetermined time or longer (Yes in Step 2201), the effect control unit 300 adds 1 to the value of the counter for counting the number of players (Step 2202), and the RAM 303 (Step 2203).

  Next, the production control unit 300 prompts the player to select a stage, and when the player selects a stage, the selection is accepted (step 2204). Here, the stage may be selected by operating the effect button 161 or the effect key 162. Or, if the pachinko gaming machine 100 is not provided with the effect button 161 and the effect key 162, images of different stages are displayed on the image display unit 114 at regular intervals, for example, when the player strikes the right or a game ball It may be considered that the stage on which the image is displayed at the time when the player wins the start opening is selected. The information on the selected stage may be held by turning on a selection flag for that stage stored in the RAM 303. If the stage selection is not received within the predetermined time (No in step 2204), the stage transition table selection process is terminated as it is.

  On the other hand, when selection of a stage is received within a predetermined time (Yes in Step 2204), the effect control unit 300 next determines whether or not the selected stage is an upper stage (Step 2205). This determination may be made, for example, by checking whether or not the selection flag for the upper stage stored in the RAM 303 is ON. If the selected stage is not the upper stage (No in step 2205), the stage transition table selection process is terminated as it is.

On the other hand, when the selected stage is an upper stage (Yes in Step 2205), the effect control unit 300 determines whether or not the gaming state is a probability variation gaming state (Step 2206).
And if it is a probability change game state (it is Yes at step 2206), the production | presentation control part 300 will evaluate the value of a counter (step 2207). If the counter is 3, the player's order is a multiple of 3, so the probability variation gaming state gasse stage transition table is set in the RAM 303 (step 2208). If the counter is not 3, the player's order is a multiple of 3. Therefore, the stage transition table for probability variation gaming state is set in the RAM 303 (step 2209).

If the game state is not the probability change game state, that is, if it is the normal game state (No in Step 2206), the effect control unit 300 evaluates the value of the counter (Step 2210). If the counter is 3, the player's order is a multiple of 3, so the normal gaming state gusset stage transition table is set in the RAM 303 (step 2211). If the counter is not 3, the player's order is a multiple of 3. Therefore, the normal game state stage transition table is set in the RAM 303 (step 2212).
Thereafter, the effect control unit 300 clears the value of the counter for counting the players stored in the RAM 303 to 0 (step 2213).

  In this stage transition table selection process, the player who started the game after the customer waiting state has continued for a predetermined time or more is recognized as the player who newly started the game, thereby determining the order in which the player plays the game. However, the method of recognizing a player who has started a new game is not limited to this. For example, a player who started a game after a game medium such as a card or a coin return operation may be recognized as a player who has newly started a game. Or you may recognize the player who started the game after the state where the game ball is not fired for a predetermined time or more continues as the player who newly started the game. In other words, any method may be adopted as a method for recognizing a player who has started a new game, as long as the player order is determined based on the recognition result.

  Moreover, in this stage transition table selection process, when the order in which the player started the game is a multiple of 3, the gase stage transition table is forcibly selected. It may be determined by lottery. That is, a step of performing a lottery may be provided before step 2208, and the process proceeds to step 2208 only when the lottery result satisfies the condition, and may proceed to step 2209 when the lottery result does not satisfy the condition. Further, a step of performing a lottery may be provided before step 2211, and the process may proceed to step 2211 only when the lottery result satisfies the condition, and may proceed to step 2212 when the lottery result does not satisfy the condition.

  The part that performs the stage transition table selection process in the effect control unit 300 performs the first latent effect, and then performs the second latent effect with a probability according to the order of the player. It is an example of the control means which controls.

[Stage transition process in the production control unit]
FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the contents of the stage transition process.
First, as described in FIG. 22, the player selects a stage by operating, for example, the effect button 161 and the effect key 162. Therefore, the effect control unit 300 determines whether a stage has been selected (step 2301). If a stage is selected (Yes in Step 2301), information on the selected stage is set in the RAM 303 (Step 2306), and the stage transition process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the stage has not been selected (No in step 2301), the process proceeds to a process of determining the stage by lottery. That is, the production control unit 300 determines whether or not to perform stage lottery (step 2302). If the stage lottery is not performed (No in step 2302), the stage transition process is terminated as it is.

  On the other hand, when stage lottery is performed (Yes in Step 2302), the effect control unit 300 acquires information on the current stage and stores it in the RAM 303 (Step 2303). Further, a random number (stage random number) for determining the stage displayed on the image display unit 114 is acquired and stored in the RAM 303 (step 2304). Further, the stage random number is determined using the stage transition table set in the RAM 303 in any one of steps 2208, 2209, 2221, and 2122 in FIG. 22 (step 2305). Then, the stage information after the transition determined by lottery is set in the RAM 303 (step 2306).

For example, if the current stage is the upper stage and the probability variation gaming state gasse stage transition table of FIG. 21B is set in the RAM 303, if 1 is acquired as the stage random number, any of the intermediate stages Is determined as the stage after the transition.
Further, if the current stage is the middle stage and the normal gaming state gasse stage transition table of FIG. 21D is set in the RAM 303, if 2 is acquired as the stage random number, one of the upper stages Is determined as the stage after the transition.
Note that if a random value that is not assigned to a transition to another stage starting from the current stage is acquired as a stage random number, the stage does not transition.
Thereafter, the set stage information is transmitted to the image / sound control unit 310 together with the effect control command. The effect control command is also transmitted to the lamp controller 320.

  In addition, the part which performs such a stage transition process in the effect control unit 300 is an example of effect means for performing a latent effect including a first latent effect, a second latent effect, and a third latent effect.

As described above, in this embodiment, the player can select the upper stage as the probability variation latent effect. As a result, it is possible to prevent the player's ability to concentrate on the game from being lowered by showing only the middle stage and the lower stage. However, the player can select not only the upper stage but also the middle stage and the lower stage.
Further, in the present embodiment, when the player selects a stage, the stage transition is performed not only with a probability according to the game state but also with a probability according to the order of the player. As a result, the player can enjoy the game while predicting whether the promotion to the upper stage or the fall to the lower stage is caused by the gaming state or the turn of the player.
Further, the description has been made on the assumption that the player selects the stage, but the hall clerk may select the stage. In that case, for example, when performing an event in which all the gaming machines start from the same stage as the event of the hall, a secondary effect that the stage can be easily selected is brought about.

It is a schematic front view of the pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS It is a figure explaining the pachinko game machine concerning this Embodiment, (a) is an enlarged view which shows an example of the indicator arrange | positioned at the lower right of a game board, (b) is a pachinko game machine FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of a control unit. It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of a game control part. It is a flowchart which shows the main operation | movement of a game control part. It is a flowchart which shows the content of a start port switch process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the gate switch process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the special symbol process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the jackpot determination process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the fluctuation pattern selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the process during a stop. It is a flowchart which shows the content of normal symbol processing. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the big prize opening process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the big prize opening process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of an electric tulip process. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the random number used by this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the main operation | movement of an effect control part. It is a flowchart which shows the content of command reception processing. It is a flowchart which shows the content of effect selection processing. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the win production | presentation selection process. It is a figure for demonstrating a stage production. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the random number table for determining a stage transfer. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the stage transition table selection process in an effect control part. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the stage transfer process in an effect control part.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Pachinko machine 121 ... 1st starting port, 122 ... 2nd starting port, 123 ... Electric tulip, 124 ... Gate, 125 ... Grand prize opening, 126 ... Normal winning port, 130 ... Display, 218 ... 1st Special symbol hold indicator, 219 ... second special symbol hold indicator, 220 ... normal symbol hold indicator, 221 ... first special symbol indicator, 222 ... second special symbol indicator, 223 ... normal symbol indicator, 231 ... Special symbol lottery unit, 232 ... Normal symbol lottery unit, 233 ... Special symbol variation control unit, 234 ... Special symbol lottery result determination unit, 235 ... Variation pattern selection unit, 236 ... Game progress control unit, 237 ... Normal symbol control unit 238 ... Grand prize opening operation control unit, 239 ... Electric tulip operation control unit

Claims (7)

As the internal state related to the jackpot winning probability, there are a normal state and a high probability state having a higher jackpot winning probability than the normal state, and it is difficult to identify whether the internal state is the normal state or the high probability state. A gaming machine that performs a latent production,
A first latent effect indicating that the possibility that the internal state is the high probability state is a first level, and a possibility that the internal state is the high probability state is lower than the first level. A directing means for performing the latent effect including a second latent effect indicating a second level;
Accepting means for accepting from the player a latent effect instruction that instructs that the first latent effect is performed by the effecting means;
Recognizing means for recognizing that the player is a player who has started a new game;
Determining means for determining the order of the players based on the recognition result by the recognition means;
When receiving the latent effect instruction by the accepting unit, the first latent effect is performed, and then the second latent effect is performed with a probability corresponding to the order of the player determined by the determining unit. Thus, a gaming machine comprising control means for controlling the effect means.   The control means performs the first latent effect with a probability according to the order of the player determined by the determining means when the second latent effect is performed by the effect means. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the rendering means is controlled. The effect means performs the latent effect further including a third latent effect indicating that the possibility that the internal state is the high probability state is a third level lower than the second level,
The control means performs the third latent effect with a probability corresponding to the order of the player determined by the determining means when the second latent effect is performed by the effect means. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the presentation means is controlled. The effect means performs the latent effect further including a third latent effect indicating that the possibility that the internal state is the high probability state is a third level lower than the second level,
The control means performs the second latent effect with a probability according to the order of the player determined by the determining means when the third latent effect is performed by the effect means. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the presentation means is controlled.   The recognizing means recognizes that the player is a player who has newly started a game when a waiting state of a customer continues for a predetermined time or more before the player starts a game. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4.   The recognizing means recognizes that the player is a player who has newly started a game when a return operation of a medium or a coin is performed before the player starts a game. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4.   The recognizing means recognizes that the player is a player who has newly started a game when a state where a game ball is not fired for a predetermined time or longer before the player starts a game is continued. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the gaming machine is characterized in that:

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