JP2011104082A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To increase a player's interests in a game in a game machine, in which symbol variation performance is performed to follow variation of a lottery symbol. <P>SOLUTION: In the game machine, as prescribed conditions are met, a symbol variation game is executed, in which the lottery symbol is variation-displayed to be stopped and displayed after a prescribed time. It includes a shooting operation means operable by a player to shoot a game ball onto a game board, a shooting time measuring means to measure shooting continuity time in which the hooting operation means is continuously operated by the player, a continuous operation performance execution means to execute a continuous operation performance in accordance with the shooting continuity time, a symbol variation performance execution means to execute the symbol variation performance to follow the symbol variation game, a performance pattern storage means to store a plurality of performance patterns of symbol variation performances as related to the shooting continuity time, and a performance pattern selection means to select a specific performance pattern out of the plurality of the performance patterns stored in the performance pattern storage means in accordance with the shooting continuity time when the symbol variation game is started. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly, to a gaming machine (a ball game machine) such as a pachinko gaming machine such as a so-called seven machine, feathers, or a right-handed machine, or a combination type gaming machine (arranged ball gaming machine).

  The pachinko gaming machine is configured to start displaying the variation of the lottery symbol when the game ball enters the starting port, and start executing the big hit game when the lottery symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning symbol. Such a gaming machine is configured such that a symbol variation effect such as a reach effect or a notice effect is performed in accordance with the variation display of the lottery symbol. And as for the design pattern of the design variation production, a specific production pattern is generally determined by lottery from a plurality of production patterns (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2005-312836 A

  However, in the configuration in which the effect pattern of the symbol variation effect is determined by lottery, the effect pattern determination pattern is uniform, the appearing effect pattern is fixed, and the game is less changeable. For this reason, there is a problem that the player is easily bored as the game continues.

  Therefore, in view of the above points, the present invention has an object to improve the gaming interest in a gaming machine that performs a symbol variation effect accompanying a variation in a lottery symbol.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides a gaming machine that executes a symbol variable game in which a lottery symbol is variably displayed when a predetermined condition is satisfied and the lottery symbol is stopped after a predetermined time has elapsed.
A launch operation means operated by a player to launch a game ball on the game board;
A firing time measuring means for measuring a firing duration in which the firing operation means is continuously operated by a player;
A continuation operation effect executing means for executing a continuation operation effect according to the firing duration;
A symbol variation effect execution means for executing a symbol variation effect accompanying the symbol variation game;
Production pattern storage means for storing a plurality of production patterns of the symbol variation production in association with the firing duration;
At the start of the symbol variation game, as the effect pattern of the symbol variation effect to be executed in association with the symbol variation game, from among the plurality of effect patterns stored in the effect pattern storage means, An effect pattern selecting means for selecting a specific effect pattern according to the firing duration is provided.

  In this way, from the plurality of effect patterns stored in association with the firing duration, a specific effect pattern is selected according to the firing duration measured by the firing time measuring means at the start of the symbol variation game, By executing the symbol variation effect in accordance with the specific effect pattern, it is possible to realize a gameability in which the content of the symbol variation effect changes according to the length of the duration of the launch by the player. Furthermore, by performing the continuous operation effect according to the firing duration, it is possible to actively notify the progress of the firing duration, and the player can easily grasp the firing duration. As a result, it is possible to make the player sufficiently recognize the gameability that the content of the symbol variation effect changes as the game ball is fired, thereby improving the game entertainment.

  Further, the gaming machine of the present invention is characterized in that the effect pattern storage means varies the number of effect patterns corresponding to the firing duration according to the length of the firing duration.

  As a result, the number of design variation effects that can appear (can be selected) changes (increases or decreases) according to the progress of the firing duration, so a variety of symbol variation effects can be achieved. As a result, the gaming interest can be improved.

  The gaming machine according to the present invention further includes contact detection means for detecting that the player is touching the launch operation means, and the launch time measurement means is configured such that the player detects the launch operation means by the contact detection means. It is characterized in that a time during which it is continuously detected that touching is detected is measured as the firing duration.

  In this way, by detecting the launch operation using the existing hardware configuration of the contact detection means, it is not necessary to separately provide sensors for detecting the launch operation of the game ball by the player. As a result, it is possible to improve the game entertainment without providing a new part (hardware configuration) for measuring the firing duration.

  According to the configuration of the present invention described above, in a gaming machine that performs a symbol variation effect accompanying a variation in a lottery symbol, the content of the symbol variation effect is changed according to the length of the game ball firing duration by the player. This can improve the game entertainment.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment to which the present invention is applied. It is a front view of a game board. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of an electronic controller. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a main job. It is a flowchart which shows the first half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the second half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol fluctuation | variation display process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit game process. It is a flowchart which shows discharge operation monitoring processing. It is a flowchart which shows a design fluctuation effect process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit time effect pattern distribution process. It is a flowchart which shows an off time production | generation pattern distribution process. It is a flowchart which shows the symbol fluctuation effect process of 2nd Example. It is a flowchart which shows the big hit effect pattern distribution process of 2nd Example. It is a flowchart which shows the production pattern distribution process at the time of off of 2nd Example.

(First embodiment)
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following, a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter simply referred to as a gaming machine) of a type (so-called “seven machine type”) in which a jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed in response to the end of the special symbol variation display, and the jackpot game is triggered by this. Examples to which the present invention is applied will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the front portion of the gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame 2, a middle frame 3, a front frame 4, an upper plate portion 5, a lower plate portion 6, a locking device 9, a game board 20, and the like. In FIG. 1, detailed illustration of the game board 20 is omitted. Further, the middle frame 3 is not clearly shown in FIG. 1 because the front frame 4 and the like are arranged on the front side.

  The outer frame 2 is a wooden plate-like body assembled into a substantially rectangular frame shape. The middle frame 3 is made of plastic and constitutes the main body frame of the gaming machine 1. The middle frame 3 is fitted inside the outer frame 2 and is pivotally supported at the left end so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 2. The middle frame 3 includes a frame body portion that occupies about 2/3 of the upper side and a lower plate portion that occupies about 1/3 of the lower side. The game board 20 and the front frame 4 are provided so as to overlap each other on the front side of the frame body part, and the upper plate part 5 and the lower plate part 6 are provided on the front side of the lower plate part. Note that the game board 20 is detachably attached to the frame body portion (the middle frame 3). The lower plate portion is provided with a launcher unit (not shown) constituting launching means for launching a game ball onto the game board 20, and a ball feeder (not shown) for supplying the game ball to the launcher unit.

  The front frame 4 is disposed on the front side of the middle frame 3 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. The front frame 4 is made of plastic, and a circular opening 4a is formed in order to make the board surface of the game board 20 arranged on the back side visible. A substantially rectangular transparent plate frame (not shown) including a transparent plate such as a glass plate corresponding to the opening 4a is attached to the back surface of the front frame 4. Lamps such as LEDs (not shown) are provided around the game board 20 in the front frame 4. These lamps are turned on / off or blinking according to the progress of the game in order to enhance the game effect.

  The upper plate part 5 is provided on the lower side of the front frame 4 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. The upper dish part 5 includes a dish outer edge part 5a, a discharge port 5b for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1, and a ball release button 5c for discharging the game balls of the upper dish part 5 to the lower dish part 6. It has. An effect button 5d, a ball lending button 5e, and the like are provided on the upper surface of the dish outer edge 5a. The effect button 5d is provided so as to protrude from the upper surface of the outer edge 5a of the dish, and moves downward when the player presses it, and upwards by elastic means (for example, a spring member) (not shown) by releasing the press. It is configured as a moving push button.

  The lower plate part 6 is provided below the upper plate part 5. A discharge port 6 a for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1 to the lower plate portion 6 is provided in the approximate center of the lower plate portion 6. An ashtray 7 is provided at the left end of the lower dish portion 6. At the right end of the lower plate part 6, a launching handle 8 is provided for a player to operate a launching device unit (not shown). The firing handle 8 is provided with a touch switch 8a as contact detection means for detecting that the player is touching. On the left side surface of the launch handle 8, a launch stop switch 8b that is operated by the player to temporarily stop the launch of the game ball is disposed. The firing handle 8 corresponds to the firing operation means of the present invention.

  The locking device 9 is provided at the center of the right end of the middle frame 3 and is used to lock the front frame 4 when it is closed.

  Further, the gaming machine 1 is provided with speakers 10a to 10d for generating sound effects and the like corresponding to the gaming state. The speakers 10 a to 10 d are composed of upper speakers 10 a and 10 b provided at the upper part of the gaming machine 1 and lower speakers 10 c and 10 d provided at the lower part of the gaming machine 1. Further, a prepaid card unit 13 (CR unit) is mounted on the left side of the gaming machine 1.

  Next, the surface structure of the game board 20 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 20. The game board 20 is a substantially rectangular wooden plate-like body and is detachably attached to the middle frame 3, and its back side is covered by a back mechanism board (not shown).

  As shown in FIG. 2, a substantially circular game area 21 is formed on the game board 20 by an outer rail 22 and an inner rail 23 provided on the surface (board surface) of the game board 20. In the game area 21, the central device 24, the normal symbol operating gate 27, the big winning device 33, the starting port 28, the left winning ports 34 and 35, the right winning ports 36 and 37, the first decorative member 50, and the second decorative member. A gaming device such as 60 is arranged. In addition, a number of obstacle nails are arranged in the game area 21 in consideration of the position balance with each gaming device.

  The central device (center accessory) 24 is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game area 21 and includes an effect display device 25. In the present embodiment, a large liquid crystal display device is used as the effect display device 25, and various effect displays are performed in the display area of the effect display device 25.

  The big winning device 33 is arranged below the central device 24 in the game area 21. The first decoration device 50 is arranged on the left side of the big prize device 33 in the game area 21, the second decoration device 60 is arranged on the right side of the big prize device 33 in the game area 21, and the decoration devices 50, 60 are so-called side. Make up decorations. Further, the first winning device 34 is integrated with the left winning holes 34 and 35, and the second winning device 60 is integrated with the right winning ports 36 and 37.

  The normal symbol operating gate 27 is provided on the left side of the central device 24. Inside the normal symbol operation gate 27, a normal symbol operation gate detection switch 27s (see FIG. 3) for detecting the passage of the game ball flowing down on the game board is provided. When the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27, the normal symbol starts to fluctuate.

  The start port 28 is provided below the central position of the central device 24. The start port 28 is a first start port provided on the upper side, in which two entrance ports formed with a game ball receiving port for receiving a game ball flowing down on the surface of the game board 20 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction. 28a and a second start port 28b provided on the lower side.

  The first starting port 28a is configured as a fixed starting port in which the size of the game ball receiving port does not change and the possibility of entering the game ball is constant, so that the game ball can always enter the game. It has become. On the other hand, the second start port 28b is a so-called tulip type and has a pair of wing pieces on the left and right, and the upper end gap between the pair of wing pieces serves as a game ball receiving port. The pair of wing pieces are each opened and closed by tilting in the left-right direction. With this opening and closing action, the second start port 28b is the size of the game ball receiving port of the pair of wing pieces. It is configured as a variable starter that changes. The second start port 28b is in an open state with a high probability of entering by opening a pair of blade pieces, and in a normal state with a low possibility of entering by closing a pair of blade pieces (incoming balls) Including an impossible closed state). When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a combination of symbols, the pair of wing pieces are opened to expand the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b, and the second start port 28b is a normal electric accessory. Function as. The opening and closing of the second start port 28b is controlled by the main control unit 200.

  Inside the start port 28, a start port entrance detection switch 28s (see FIG. 3) for detecting the entrance of a game ball, and a start port solenoid 28c (see FIG. 3) for operating a pair of wing pieces. Is provided. When the pair of wing pieces are opened to the left and right, the size of the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b is enlarged from the normal time, and the second start port 28b has a possibility of entering a game ball. It becomes an open state that becomes larger. On the other hand, when the pair of wing pieces are erected, the size of the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b is slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball (one game ball can pass). The second start port 28b is in a normal state (closed state) in which the possibility of entering a game ball is reduced (or entry is impossible). When a game ball enters one of the start ports 28a, 28b, a special symbol described later starts to fluctuate.

  The big prize device 33 is disposed below the start port 28. Here, the special winning device 33 includes a special winning opening 33a opened in a belt shape, an opening / closing plate 33b for opening / closing the special winning opening 33a, and a large winning opening solenoid 33c (for operating the opening / closing plate 33b). 3) and an incoming ball detection switch 33s (see FIG. 3) for detecting an incoming game ball.

  A left winning opening 34 and 35 and a right winning opening 36 and 37 are provided on the upper left side and the upper right side of the big winning device 33. Each of these winning openings is provided with a winning opening entering detection switch (not shown).

  The first decorative member 50 is provided with a plurality of LEDs, and a combination of these LEDs constitutes a normal symbol display portion 51, a general symbol hold display portion 52, and a special symbol hold display portion 53. Similarly, the second decorative member 60 is provided with a plurality of LEDs, and a special symbol display unit 61 is configured by a combination of these LEDs.

  The normal symbol display part 51 is comprised from one LED, and a normal symbol is displayed by this LED. In the normal symbol display unit 51, the normal symbol variation display and stop display are performed. In the normal symbol display unit 51, the normal symbol starts to change when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27, and after a predetermined time has passed, the normal symbol hits and stops display in the normal symbol display mode or the dismissed normal symbol display mode. Is done. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the preset normal symbol display mode, the second start port 28b is opened according to a predetermined opening pattern. A plurality of opening patterns of the second start port 28b are set. When the opening time extension function for extending the opening time of the second start port 28b is not in operation (normal time), a short opening pattern in which a first opening time (for example, 1 to 2 seconds) is set is set and opened. When the time extension function is activated, a long-time opening pattern in which a second opening time (for example, 4 to 6 seconds) longer than the first opening time is set is set. The open time extension function will be described later.

  In the present embodiment, a random number for determining normal symbol success / failure is prepared, and this random number for determining normal symbol determination is acquired when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27, and the second start port 28b. Is used to determine whether or not to operate a normal symbol (whether or not to make it open). A hit value is set in advance for the random number for normal symbol success / failure determination, and a hit is determined when the random number for normal symbol success / failure determination obtained at the timing when the game ball passes the normal symbol operation gate 27 matches the winning value. Is done. When it is determined that the normal symbol is determined to be a win, the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display unit 51 is determined as the display mode of the normal symbol. On the other hand, when it is determined to be out (when the acquired normal symbol success / failure random number does not match the winning value), the normal symbol stopped and displayed in the normal symbol display unit 51 is determined as the display mode of the out of normal symbol. Is done.

  Here, normal symbol holding will be described. The normal symbol hold display section 52 displays the normal symbol hold number, and the number of game balls that have passed through the normal symbol operation gate 27 can be held up to the maximum hold number (four in this embodiment). Each time the next normal symbol win / fail determination is made and the normal symbol variation display is started, the number of unstarted times (the number of reservations) is consumed, and the number of normal symbol reservations is decreased by one. The general-purpose hold display unit 52 includes two LEDs, and can display the number of holds with an upper limit of four by combining turning off, lighting, and blinking of the two LEDs. Along with the holding of the normal symbol, a random number for determining whether or not the normal symbol is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200.

  The determination of whether or not the normal symbol is determined, the determination of the stop symbol of the normal symbol, the setting of the variation pattern of the normal symbol, the holding of the normal symbol and the holding of the normal symbol are performed by the main control unit 200 described later.

  Next, the special symbol will be described. The special symbol display unit 61 is composed of seven LEDs, and special symbols are displayed by these LEDs. Each LED constituting the special symbol display unit 61 can be turned on and off, and a plurality of special symbol display modes can be displayed by a combination of turning on and off the LEDs. Of the combinations of special symbols displayed by 7 LEDs, a specific combination is set as a hit special symbol (big hit symbol or small hit symbol), and other than the hit special symbol comes off and the special symbol (out symbol) ) Is set. In this embodiment, the special symbol variation display is performed by blinking display in which each LED is repeatedly turned on and off. When a game ball enters the start opening 28 (the first start opening 28a, the second start opening 28b), the special symbol starts to fluctuate in the special symbol display unit 61, and the special symbol is a big hit symbol or missed after a predetermined time elapses. A symbol variation game that is stopped and displayed with symbols is performed. In this embodiment, a plurality of jackpot symbols are set, and specifically, “probable variation jackpot symbol” and “normal jackpot symbol” are set as will be described later. Note that the special symbol corresponds to the lottery symbol of the present invention.

  In this embodiment, a special symbol success / failure determination random number is provided that is acquired when a game ball enters the start opening 28 and is used for determining whether or not to execute a big hit game (special game). Yes. Furthermore, a special symbol determining random number for determining a stop symbol of the special symbol is provided. As the game ball enters the start port 28, a special symbol success / failure determination random number and a special symbol determination random number are acquired, and the acquired special symbol success / failure determination random number and the special symbol determination random number are the main control. Stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the unit 200.

  Here, the holding of special symbols will be described. The special symbol hold display unit 53 is composed of two LEDs, and can display the number of holds with an upper limit of four by combining turning off, turning on, and blinking of the two LEDs.

  The number of game balls that have entered the starting port 28 can be reserved until the maximum number of reservations (four in this embodiment) is reached as the number of special symbol reservations. The special symbol hold number is acquired every time a game ball enters the start port 28 and is stored in a predetermined area (hold storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (special symbol success / failure). This corresponds to the number of random numbers for determination and random numbers for determining special symbols. In this embodiment, the special symbol determination random number is acquired together with the special symbol success / failure random number as the game ball enters the start port 28. Therefore, the special symbol hold number is the number of stored special symbol determination random numbers. It corresponds to. The number of special symbol reservations is digested each time a special symbol success / failure determination is performed and the variation display of the special symbol is started, and decreases by one.

  The special symbol success / failure determination random number is set with a hit value for success / failure determination, and the special symbol success / failure random number acquired at the timing when the game ball enters the first start port 28a or the second start port 28b. Is determined to be a big hit if it matches the hit value. The special symbol success / failure determination is performed when the special symbol starts the variable display.

  When the special symbol success / failure determination random number matches the winning value, it is determined to be a big hit, and the special symbol that is stopped and displayed by the special symbol display unit 61 is determined as the big winning symbol (probability big hit symbol or normal big hit symbol). On the other hand, when the result of determining whether or not the special symbol is successful is not a big hit (losing to the big hit lottery), the special symbol that is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 61 is determined to be a lost symbol.

  The special symbol is configured to change and display according to a predetermined change pattern. This variation pattern defines the variation time of the special symbol and the presence / absence of the reach effect or the notice effect (effect content) in the variation. The special symbol variation pattern is selected by lottery from a variation pattern table in which a plurality of variation patterns are stored when the special symbol success / failure determination is executed.

  A plurality of special symbol variation pattern tables are prepared, and are selected and used according to the gaming state. The plurality of variation pattern tables include a hit variation pattern table selected when the success / failure determination result is a big hit, and a miss variation pattern table selected when the success / failure determination result is unacceptable.

  Further, the determination of whether or not the special symbol is determined, the determination of the variation pattern of the special symbol, the determination of the stop symbol of the special symbol, the variation display of the special symbol and the stop display (symbol variation game) are performed by the main control unit 200 described later. Has been.

  Next, the jackpot game (special game) will be described. When the special symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 61 is the above-mentioned jackpot symbol (when the result of the special symbol hit / fail determination is a big hit), the main control unit 200 is a jackpot that is relatively advantageous to the player. A game (special game) is started. The jackpot game is started by setting the jackpot game flag to ON. The big hit game is to give a player a profit (prize ball) with respect to entering the game ball into the big prize opening 33a by operating the big prize device 33, in other words, by opening and closing the big prize opening 33a a plurality of times. It is. The jackpot game is realized by repeatedly executing a jackpot game process described later.

  During the big hit game (during special game), the big prize device 33 is operated, and a predetermined number of prize balls (for example, 15 for one pitch) according to the number of game balls entered into the big prize opening 33a. Award balls). Specifically, the big winning opening / closing operation for continuously operating the big winning device 33 and switching the big winning opening 33a between the open state and the closed state is continuously performed a plurality of times by the start of the big hit game. With the start of the operation of the special winning device 33, the special winning opening 33a is opened. This open state is ended when a predetermined end condition is established, and the open special winning opening 33a is closed. As a predetermined ending condition, when the opening time of the grand prize opening 33a reaches a specified time (30 seconds in this embodiment) or the number of game balls that have entered the open big opening 33a is a predetermined number (this implementation) In the example, it is possible to reach 10).

  In the case where one round game is performed from the start to the end of the open state of the big winning opening 33a, the big hit game is ended when a predetermined number of round games are performed. In the grand prize winning device 33, after the opening of the big prize winning opening 33a is completed, that is, after a predetermined interval time has elapsed since the big winning prize opening 33a is closed, the big winning prize opening 33a is again opened, and the next round game Starts. The opening / closing operation of the grand prize winning port 33a in which one round is from the start to the end of the big winning port 33a is repeated until a predetermined maximum number of continuous rounds (15 in this embodiment) is completed.

  In the gaming machine of this embodiment, after the big hit game is finished, a specific game (so-called short-time game and probability variable game) in which the variable time shortening function, the open time extending function, and the probability varying function are activated is started. The variable time shortening function, the opening time extending function, and the probability varying function operate by setting the fluctuation shortening flag, the opening extension flag, and the probability changing flag to ON, respectively.

  When the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a normal jackpot (the special symbol stop symbol is a normal jackpot symbol), after the jackpot game is over, the variable time shortening function and the opening time extension for extending the opening time of the second start port 28b are extended. The function is activated and the short-time game is started. The short-time game is realized by the control of the main control unit 200. The fluctuation time reduction function includes a normal figure fluctuation time reduction function for reducing the fluctuation time of a normal symbol and a special symbol for reducing the fluctuation time of a special symbol. The figure fluctuation time reduction function is included. By the operation of the opening time extension function, the opening time of the second start port 28b is extended from the first opening time (for example, 1 to 2 seconds) to the second opening time (for example, 4 to 6 seconds). As a result, the frequency of entering the game ball into the second start port 28b is higher than that at normal time (when the opening extension function is not activated). The fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function operate after the big hit game is finished until the next big hit game is started, or until the number of fluctuations of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number (100 times in this example). .

  If the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a probable big hit (the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probable big hit symbol), after the big hit game ends, the probability variation function starts to operate, and the probable variable game is started. The probability variation game is realized by the control of the main control unit 200. In this probability variation game, the probability variation function that changes (improves) the probability of the special symbol success / failure determination, that is, the probability that the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the jackpot symbol. Operates. The probability variation function of this embodiment operates together with the variation time shortening function and the open time extending function.

  While the probability variation function is in operation, the probability of winning or failing determination increases, so that the probability that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination becomes a big hit is improved. Specifically, a normal probability success / failure determination table and a high probability success / failure determination table in which the number (type) of hit values is increased as compared with the normal probability success / failure determination table. During normal games (when the probability variation function is inactive), the normal probability determination table is used to determine whether or not, and during probability change games (when the probability variation function is in operation), a high probability determination table is used. Make a pass / fail decision.

  The probability variation function operates after the jackpot game is over until the next jackpot game is started. In this embodiment, the maximum execution period of the probability variation game is set until the number of fluctuations of the special symbol after the big hit game reaches 10,000 times until the next big hit game is substantially started. .

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, a symbol change effect is performed by the effect display device 25 in association with the symbol change game by the special symbol. Examples of the symbol variation effect include a variation display effect in which an effect symbol consisting of a number symbol is variably displayed in conjunction with a variation display of a special symbol, a reach effect that is performed during the variation display of an effect symbol, and the like. Note that there are a plurality of types of effect contents, and effect image data is stored in the ROM of the effect display control unit 280.

  Here, the effect display variation display effect will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, an effect symbol display unit 25 a for displaying effect symbols is provided in the display area of the effect display device 25. The effect symbol of the effect symbol display unit 25a is displayed in conjunction with the special symbol of the special symbol display unit 61. Moreover, the site | part except the effect design display part 25a among the display screens of the effect display apparatus 25 is a background display area in which various background designs including a character, a figure, a symbol, a character, etc. are displayed.

  In this embodiment, a three-digit number symbol consisting of “1” to “9” is used as the effect symbol, and the effect symbol display unit 25a displays a right symbol display area in which the right symbol is displayed, and a middle symbol. The middle symbol display area and the left symbol display area where the left symbol is displayed are composed of three symbol display areas. Each symbol display area has a symbol variation direction set in a direction substantially orthogonal to the arrangement direction of these display areas, in this case, in the vertical direction (vertical direction).

  The effect symbol starts to be displayed when the special symbol display unit 61 starts the variable symbol display, and when the special symbol is stopped and displayed as one of the symbols, the effect symbol is a symbol corresponding to the special symbol stop symbol. Is stopped and displayed. In the production design, a combination of even symbols with the same three digits corresponds to a normal big hit symbol with a special symbol, a combination of odd symbols with the same three digits corresponds to a probabilistic jackpot symbol with a special symbol, and other symbol combinations are special. Corresponds to symbols that are out of design.

  Next, the aforementioned reach effect will be described. The reach effect of the present embodiment is a state in which the effect symbols are being displayed and the two effect symbols other than the effect symbols that will be the final stop symbols are stopped in a state that matches the combination of the jackpot symbols (reach state) ) Refers to the effect display performed on the effect display device 25. For example, it is assumed that when the effect symbols stop in the order of the left symbol, the right symbol, and the middle symbol, and all of these display symbols are aligned with the same symbol, it is a big hit. At this time, the state where the left symbol and the right symbol other than the middle symbol which is the final stop symbol are stopped at the same symbol (reach symbol) is the aforementioned reach state. The reach effect is to perform display related to the stop mode of the final stop symbol using the character image or the like during the reach state. Reach production is performed when the special symbol win / reject determination is a hit determination (win reach), and when the special symbol win / fail determination is a miss determination (run reach). Is called.

  The symbol variation effects such as the variation display effect and the reach effect of the effect symbols are sub-based on the variation start command (variation pattern designation command and stop information designation command) transmitted from the main control unit 200 when the variation of the special symbol starts. It is configured to be performed under the control of the control unit 260. That is, the setting of the effect content performed in the symbol variation effect and the execution of the symbol variation effect are performed by the sub-control unit 260. Further, the effect content (effect pattern) of the symbol variation effect is set at the start of the symbol variation effect based on the determination result of the special symbol.

  Here, the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 indicates the variation pattern of the special symbol. Specifically, the variation time of the special symbol and the presence / absence of the reach effect The contents of the production are shown. The main control unit 200 determines a variation pattern of the special symbol at random (by random number lottery) according to the determination result of the special symbol. Then, based on the special symbol variation pattern determined by the main control unit 200, the sub-control unit 260 determines an effect design effect pattern (design variation effect effect pattern) displayed on the effect symbol display unit 25a. Further, the stop information designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 indicates a special symbol stop symbol, and the main control unit 200 determines whether the special symbol is determined according to the result of the special symbol determination. A stop symbol is determined at random (by random number lottery). Then, based on the stop information designation command indicating the stop symbol of the special symbol determined by the main control unit 200, the sub control unit 260 determines the stop symbol of the effect symbol to be stopped and displayed on the effect symbol display unit 25a.

  In the present embodiment, a plurality of effect pattern tables storing effect patterns of symbol variation effects are stored in the ROM of the sub-control unit 260 in association with the firing duration indicating the duration of the game ball launching operation by the player. ing. For this reason, the ROM of the sub-control unit 260 corresponds to the effect pattern storage means of the present invention. The plurality of effect pattern tables include a big hit effect pattern table selected when the special symbol success / failure determination result is a big win and a missed effect pattern table selected when the special symbol success / failure determination result is out of place. include.

  The sub-control unit 260 selects a specific effect pattern table from a plurality of effect pattern tables according to the length of the firing duration, and determines the effect pattern of the symbol variation effect using the selected effect pattern table. It is configured as follows. In this embodiment, the firing duration associated with the effect pattern table is set to the first stage of 5 minutes to less than 10 minutes, the second stage of 10 minutes to less than 15 minutes, the third stage of 15 minutes to less than 20 minutes, 20 minutes. It is classified into the above fourth stage.

  In the present embodiment, the number of effect patterns of reach effects included in the plurality of effect pattern tables is different. Specifically, the first stage production pattern table includes three types of reach production patterns, the second stage production pattern table includes five types of reach production patterns, and the third stage production pattern table includes 8 types. Types of reach effect patterns are included, and the tenth reach effect pattern is included in the fourth stage effect pattern table. An effect pattern table with a larger number of effect patterns for reach effects is selected as the firing duration is longer, and an effect pattern table with a smaller number of effect patterns for reach effects is selected as the firing duration is shorter. For this reason, the longer the firing duration, the greater the number of reach effects that can be selected, resulting in an increase in reach effects. The effect pattern table at each stage is provided for each of the cases where the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit and a case where it is off.

  Moreover, in a present Example, it is comprised using the display area of the production | presentation display apparatus 25 so that the stage alerting | reporting effect which alert | reports the present stage (any one of the 1st-4th stage) of firing continuation time may be performed. . The stage notification effect corresponds to an aspect of the continuous operation effect for showing the player about the progress of the firing duration, and for example, a stage notification design is displayed in the display area of the effect display device 25 separately from the effect design. And the stage alerting effect can be realized by changing the size (display size) of the stage alerting symbol. Specifically, the size of the step notification symbol may be displayed in a stepwise manner as the firing duration proceeds from the first step to the fourth step. Thus, the player can easily grasp how long the game ball is being fired. The stage notification symbol is desirably displayed in the display area of the effect display device 25 so as not to interfere with the variation display of the effect symbol (design variation effect). For example, the stage notification symbol is displayed in the peripheral portion of the display area of the effect display device 25. be able to. In addition, even if the stage notification symbol is always displayed while the player is performing the operation of launching the game ball, the time before and after the stage of the firing duration changes (the duration of the firing duration) (When the stage changes).

  Examples of the stage notification symbol include a character symbol that can express a growth process using “human”, “animal”, “plant”, and the like as a motif. For example, when a stage notification pattern is composed of a character design with a “person” motif, “infant” in the first stage, “infant” in the second stage, “boy” in the third stage, “adult” in the fourth stage By increasing the design step by step, it is possible to notify the player of the progress of the firing duration. In addition, the aspect of the stage notification symbol is not limited to the above-described ones. For example, the progress status of the firing duration may be indicated by a quantitative display indicating the quantity or weight, and the progress of the firing duration The aspect is not particularly limited as long as the player can recognize the situation.

  Here, timing of the firing duration, selection of the effect pattern table based on the firing duration, execution of the symbol variation effect, and execution of the stage notification effect are realized by the control of the sub-control unit 260. Therefore, the sub-control unit 260 corresponds to the firing time measuring means, the continuous operation effect executing means, the symbol variation effect executing means, and the effect pattern selecting means of the present invention.

  Next, the electronic control device of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the electronic control device.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the electronic control device includes a main control unit 200 and sub-control units 230, 260, and 280 connected to the main control unit 200. The sub control unit includes a payout control unit (prize ball control unit) 230, a sub control unit 260, and an effect display control unit 280. The main control unit 200 includes a main control board 200a, and the sub control units 230, 260, and 280 include a payout control board 230a, a sub control board 260a, and an effect display control board 280a, respectively, as peripheral control boards. Each of these control boards and other boards (a power board, a relay board, a drive board, a decoration board, an amplifier board, an effect button board, etc.) are arranged on the back side of the gaming machine 1.

  Each control unit 200, 230, 260, 280 is supplied with power from a main power source (not shown). Further, when the power is turned on, a system reset signal is transmitted to each control unit 200, 230, 260, 280. Note that the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment includes a backup power supply unit (not shown) that supplies an operating voltage to the main control unit 200 and the payout control unit 230 when the power is turned off. 200 and RAM data of the payout control unit 230 are held.

  The main control unit 200 constitutes a main control unit that controls the progress of the game. The main control unit 200 transmits a command signal (command data) instructing processing contents to each of the sub control units 230 and 260, and each sub control unit 230, Reference numerals 260 and 280 are configured to perform various controls based on the command signal.

  The CPU 200b of the main control board 200a constituting the main control unit 200 includes a CPU core, a built-in RAM (hereinafter simply referred to as RAM), a built-in ROM (hereinafter also simply referred to as ROM), etc., and is stored in the ROM. The control program controls operation of the entire gaming machine 1 (basic progress control of the game) using the RAM as a work area. Further, the main control unit 200 constitutes a go / no-go determination unit that performs the go / no-go determination of the special symbol by the go / no-go determination program stored in the ROM, with the CPU 200b as the main body. Further, the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 determines a specific variation pattern from the variation pattern table of the special symbol stored in the ROM when executing the special symbol validity determination. Note that the control cycle of the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 of this embodiment is set to 4 ms.

  A board input relay board 201 and a board output relay board 202 are connected to the main controller 200. The board input relay board 201 is connected with a normal symbol operation gate detection switch 27 s, a start opening prize detection switch 28 s, and a big prize opening ball detection switch 33 s so that these signals are input to the main controller 200. It is configured. The board output relay board 202 is connected to the normal symbol display device 51, the special symbol display device 61, the start port solenoid 28c, and the big prize port solenoid 33c, and a control signal from the main control unit 200 is output.

  The payout control board 230a constituting the payout control unit 230 includes a CPU 230b having the same configuration as the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200. To the payout control unit 230, the launch control unit 250, the CR unit 13, and the like are connected. From the main control unit 200 to the payout control unit 230, commands such as a prize ball instruction command for instructing a prize ball payout, a game start permission signal for instructing a game start permission, and various launch control commands are transmitted. Various launch control commands include ball feed permission / prohibition, launch permission / prohibition, game start permission, and the like. When the CPU 230b of the payout control board 230a receives a prize ball instruction command from the main control unit 200, the CPU 230b of a game ball payout device (not shown) provided on the back side of the gaming machine 1 based on the number of prize balls indicated by the command. By paying off the payout motor, game balls are paid out (prize ball payout) for the designated number of prize balls. In this game ball payout (prize ball payout), game balls stored in a game ball tank (not shown) provided on the upper back side of the gaming machine 1 are supplied to a game ball payout device via a game ball rail (not shown). Then, the supplied game ball is discharged by rotating the payout motor of the game ball payout device.

  A touch switch 8a and a firing stop switch 8b are connected to the firing control unit 250. When the player touches the firing handle 8, a touch signal is input from the touch switch 8a, and the player operates the firing stop switch 8b. By doing (pressing), a firing stop signal is input from the firing stop switch 8b. The touch signal of the touch switch 8a is input to the main control unit 200 via the firing control unit 250 and the payout control unit 230, and is output from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260. The sub-control unit 260 determines the effect pattern of the above-described symbol variation effect based on the reception status of the touch signal.

  The sub-control unit 260 constitutes sub-control means for controlling various effects executed as the game progresses. The sub-control board 260a has a CPU 260b, a ROM, a RAM (not shown), an input / output port, etc. Circuit components and a sound generator are provided, and are connected to the main controller 200 at the input / output ports. The sub-control unit 260 is configured to control effect control using decoration display by various lamps, sound effects output from the speakers 10a to 10d, display of effect symbols by the effect display device 25, and the like.

  From the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260, various symbol control commands (variation pattern designation command, stop information designation command, symbol stop command, etc.) related to special symbol variation display, various lamp control commands, and various voice control commands Is sent. Various symbol control control commands for instructing display control of the effect symbols are transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the effect display control unit 280 via the sub-control unit 260. An effect display control unit 280 is connected to the sub control unit 260, and display of effect symbols according to various symbol control commands from the main control unit 200 (from the sub control unit 260 to the effect display control unit 280). Various effect display control commands for instructing effect display control for realizing a symbol variation effect) are simultaneously transmitted.

  The effect display control board 280a of the effect display control unit 280 is provided with arithmetic circuit components (not shown) including a CPU 280b, a RAM, a ROM, an input / output port, a VDP (video display processor), and the like. The display unit 25 is connected to the control unit 260, and the effect display device 25 is connected to the effect display control unit 280. Further, the effect display control board 280a is provided with an image ROM (not shown). The image ROM displays image data of effects symbols displayed on the effect display device 25 (such as the image data relating to the above-described symbol variation effects). ) Are stored.

  In addition, various LEDs and lamps 262 are connected to the sub-control unit 260 via a decorative driving board 261, and the speaker 10a that outputs various sounds, sounds, and the like to the amplifier board 263 in accordance with the progress of the game. 10d are connected. Further, the effect button 5 d is connected to the sub-control unit 260 via the effect button board 264. The sub-control unit 260 selects / selects lighting / flashing patterns of various LEDs / lamps based on various commands from the main control unit 200 and the production button 5d (reception of a variation pattern designation command, input of a production button operation signal, etc.). An execution process, a selection / output process of sound effect data output from the speakers 10a to 10d, a selection / execution process of an effect display pattern (effect pattern of a design variation effect) on the effect display device 25, and the like are performed.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described based on a flowchart. FIG. 4 is an example of a main job performed under the control of the main control unit 200. The main job shown in FIG. 4 is executed by the CPU 200b mounted on the main control board 200a based on a program stored in a ROM (not shown) (an internal ROM of the CPU 200b or a ROM mounted on the main control board 200a). After the power-on process S100, each step of the game start process S200, the normal symbol game process S300, the normal electric accessory game process S400, the special symbol game process S500, and the jackpot game process S600 is reset by the timer (this implementation) It is repeatedly executed every 4 ms in the example. In the power-off generation process S50, when a power-off occurs due to a power failure or the like, the used registers and stack pointers are saved, the payout motor is stopped, and so on, and when a system reset occurs, the process proceeds to the power-on process S100. It has become.

  The power-on process S100 is performed when the power is turned on and when the power is restored after the power is cut off. When the power is turned on, a RAM initialization process or the like is performed, and when the power is turned off, the game state is restored. The return setting is performed. In the game start process S200, detection of various switch states, update of various random numbers, prize ball payout control, and the like are performed.

  In the normal symbol game processing S300, first, whether or not the normal symbol is determined is determined, and the normal symbol display unit 51 (see FIG. 2) determines whether the normal symbol is to be stopped and displayed as a winning symbol or as a stop symbol. To do. Next, after setting the normal symbol fluctuation display time, the normal symbol fluctuation display is started. When the variable display time has elapsed, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed with the determined symbol, and when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed, the operation of the normal electric accessory is started (second start-up). The mouth 28b is opened). In the normal symbol game process, the normal symbol variation display and the stop display are performed as described above, and when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as the winning symbol, the second start port 28b is activated. When the second start port 28b is actuated, the pair of blade pieces open to the left and right, and the second start port 28b is opened.

  In the ordinary electric accessory game process S400, it is determined whether or not the opening time for maintaining the second start port 28b in the open state has elapsed. If the open time has not elapsed, the second start port 28b is defined. It is determined whether or not a winning number has been won. When it is determined that the predetermined number of winnings has been won at the second starting port 28b in the open state, or when it is determined that the opening time of the second starting port 28b in the open state has elapsed, a pair of The blade piece 28c is closed, and the second start port 28b is in a normal state (closed state).

  Next, the special symbol game process S500 will be described based on the flowcharts of FIGS. First, as shown in FIG. 5A, it is determined whether or not a winning (game ball has entered) is made at the starting port 28 (S501), and when it is determined that no winning is made at the starting port 28. (S501: NO). The process proceeds to S504. On the other hand, if it is determined that the start port 28 has been won (S501: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of special symbol reservations is less than 4 (S502). As a result, when it is determined that the number of first special symbol reservation is not less than 4 (4 or more) (S502: NO), the process proceeds to S504, and it is determined that the number of special symbol reservation is less than 4. If so (S502: YES), a special design random number is acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM (S503). Thereby, the number of special symbol reservation increases by one. The special symbol random number includes a special symbol success / failure determination random number, a special symbol hitting symbol determination random number, a reach random number, and the like.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the jackpot game is being played (whether or not the jackpot game flag is ON) (S504). As a result, when it is determined that the big hit game is being played (the big hit game flag is ON) (S504: YES), the special symbol game process is terminated, and the big hit game is not being played (the big hit game flag is OFF). ) (S504: NO), it is determined whether or not the special symbol is changing (S505).

  As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol is changing (S505: YES), the process proceeds to S509 described later, and when it is determined that the special symbol is not changing (S505: NO). Then, it is determined whether or not it is during the special symbol stop display time (S506). Here, the stop display time of the special symbol is a time for determining the special symbol stopped and displayed. In this embodiment, the stop display time of the special symbol is “1 second”. If it is determined that it is during the special symbol stop display time (S506: YES), the process proceeds to S513 described later, and if it is determined that it is not during the special symbol stop display time (S506). : NO), it is determined whether or not the number of special symbol hold is zero (S507).

  As a result, when it is determined that the number of special symbol hold is zero (S507: YES), the special symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the number of special symbol reservations is not zero (S507: NO), special symbol variation display processing is performed (S508).

  Here, the special symbol variation display process will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, the random number for determining whether or not the special symbol is stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (the random number for determining whether or not the game ball has entered the start opening 28) is read (S508a). ), Special symbol winning / failing determination is performed (S508b). In the special symbol success / failure determination, if the probability variation function is operating (probability change game), the determination of success / failure at the time of probability variation, that is, the determination of success / failure is made in a state where the probability that the determination result is a big hit (high probability state) If it is determined that the probability variation function is not in operation (during normal game), it is determined whether or not there is a non-probability change, that is, whether the determination result is a big hit (low probability state). I do.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit (S508c). As a result, when it is determined that it is a big hit (S508c: YES), a big hit fluctuation pattern table setting process is performed (S508d), a fluctuation pattern determination random number is obtained, and a predetermined area (holding) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 is obtained. The random number for determining the big hit symbol stored in the storage area is read (S508e).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S508c that it is not a big hit (is out) (S508c: NO), an outlier variation pattern table setting process is performed (S508f), and the variation pattern determination random number and the out symbol determination random number are obtained. Obtain (S508g).

  Next, a variation pattern and a stop symbol of the special symbol are determined (S508h). As the special symbol variation pattern, a specific variation pattern is selected from the variation pattern table set in any one of S508d and S508f by using the special symbol variation pattern determination random number acquired in S508e and S508g. The special symbol stop symbol is determined as one of the probable big hit symbol, the normal big hit symbol, or the out symbol using the jackpot symbol determining random number read in S508e or the losing symbol determining random number acquired in S508g. To do.

  Next, according to the stop symbol and the variation pattern determined in S508h, the special symbol display unit 61 starts the variation display of the special symbol (S508i), and the sub-control unit 260 receives the symbol variation start command (variation pattern designation command and stop). Information designation command) is transmitted (S508j). The variation pattern designation command is a command for designating the variation pattern of the special symbol set in S508h, and the stop information designation command is a command for designating the special symbol stop symbol. When the symbol variation start command (variation pattern designation command and stop information designation command) is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260, the symbol variation effect (effect) is controlled under the control of the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 that have received these commands. Symbol variation display) is started. Then, 1 is subtracted from the number of special symbol reservations (S508k). The processing up to this point is when the special symbol variation display is started.

  Next, returning to FIG. 5A, if it is determined in S505 that the special symbol is changing (S505: YES), whether or not the changing display time of the changing special symbol has elapsed. Is determined (S509 in FIG. 5B). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol variation display time has not elapsed (S509: NO), it is determined that the special symbol game processing is terminated and the special symbol variation display time has elapsed. In this case (S509: YES), the special symbol variation display is stopped (S510), and the symbol stop command indicating that the special symbol variation display is stopped is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S511). The symbol stop display time is set (S512).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed (S513). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has not elapsed (S513: NO), the special symbol game processing is terminated and it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed. If it is determined (S513: YES), it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol is a big hit symbol (S514). As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is a big hit symbol (S514: YES), the big hit game flag is set to ON (S515). Thereby, the big hit game is started.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is ON (S516). If it is determined that the probability variation flag is ON (S516: YES), the probability variation flag is set to OFF (S517) and the variation is reduced. The flag is set to OFF (S518), and the release extension flag is set to OFF (S519). Thereby, with the start of the big hit game, the probability variation function, the variation time shortening function, and the open time extension function stop operating.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the probability variation flag is not ON (S516: NO), it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S520). If it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not ON, (S520: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S520: YES), the fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S518), and the release extension flag is set to OFF (S519). Thereby, with the start of the big hit game, the fluctuation time shortening function and the open time extending function stop operating.

  Next, when it is determined in the determination process of S514 that the special symbol stop symbol is not a big hit symbol (S514: NO), it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S521). As a result, if it is determined that the variation shortening flag is not ON (S521: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and if it is determined that the variation shortening flag is ON (S521: NO), the variation shortening is performed. The counter is decremented by 1 (S522), and it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening counter has become zero (S523). The variation shortening counter is for counting the operating period of the variation time shortening function and the opening time extending function, and in the big hit game, the later of S614 described below according to the type of the big hit symbol that triggered the big hit game It is set by processing (see FIG. 7).

  When it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is not zero (S523: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is zero (S523: YES), The fluctuation shortening flag is turned off (S524), and the open extension flag is turned off (S525). As a result, the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function are deactivated.

  Next, the jackpot game process S600 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not the jackpot game is being played (whether or not the jackpot game flag is ON) (S601). As a result, if it is determined that the jackpot game is not being played (the jackpot game flag is OFF) (S601: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated and the jackpot game is being played (the jackpot game flag is ON). ) (S601: YES), it is determined whether or not the special winning opening 33a is being opened (S602). As a result, when it is determined that the special winning opening 33a is being opened (S602: YES), it is determined whether or not the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S603), and the special winning opening 33a is determined. When it is determined that the opening time has not elapsed (S603: NO), it is determined whether or not the specified winning number 33a has been won (whether or not the specified number of game balls have entered). (S604).

  As a result, if it is determined that the prescribed number of winnings has not been won in the big winning opening 33a (S604: NO), the jackpot game processing is terminated and the prescribed winning number has been won in the big winning opening 33a. When it is determined (S604: YES) or when it is determined that the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S603: YES), the special winning opening 33a is closed (S605).

  If it is determined in S602 that the special winning opening 33a is not being opened (S602: NO), it is determined whether or not the big hit game ending condition is satisfied (S606). The determination process of S606 determines whether or not the number of rounds of the big hit game has reached 15 rounds.

  As a result, when it is determined that the big hit game ending condition is not satisfied (S606: NO), it is determined whether or not the closing time (interval time) of the big winning opening 33a has passed (S607), When it is determined that the closing time of the big prize opening 33a has not elapsed (S607: NO), the big hit game process is terminated, and it is determined that the closing time of the big prize opening 33a has elapsed. (S607: YES), the special winning opening 33a is opened (S608).

  When it is determined in S606 that the big hit game ending condition is satisfied (S606: YES), the big hit game flag is set to OFF (S609). Then, it is determined whether or not the jackpot symbol that triggered the jackpot game ended this time is a probabilistic jackpot symbol (S610). As a result, when it is determined that the probability variation big hit symbol is determined (S610: YES), the probability variation flag is set to ON (S611), and the fluctuation shortening flag and the release extension flag are set to ON (S612, S613). ). Thereby, the operation of the probability variation function starts (becomes a high probability state), and the operations of the variation time shortening function and the open time extension function begin.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S610 that the symbol is not the probability variation big hit symbol (S610: NO), the variation shortening flag and the release extension flag are respectively set ON without setting the probability variation flag ON (S612, S613). . As a result, the operation of the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function starts (the time is shortened).

  Then, the fluctuation shortening counter that defines the operation period of the fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extending function is set (S614). The “variation shortening counter” is set to “100 times” when the big hit symbol is a normal big hit symbol, and is set to “10,000 times” when the big hit symbol is a probable big hit symbol.

  Next, the firing operation monitoring process performed mainly by the sub-control unit 260 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. FIG. 8 is an example of a firing operation monitoring process performed under the control of the sub-control unit 260, and is executed as a subroutine of a main routine (not shown). The firing operation monitoring process shown in FIG. 8 is executed by the CPU 260b mounted on the sub control board 260a based on a program stored in a ROM (not shown) (an internal ROM of the CPU 260b or a ROM mounted on the sub control board 260a). .

  As shown in FIG. 8, it is determined whether or not a touch signal transmitted from the main control unit 200 has been received (S700). The touch signal is a signal that is output from the touch switch 8a while the player is touching the launch handle 8, and indicates that the player is performing a game ball launch operation. As a result of the determination processing in S700, when it is determined that a touch signal is received (a shooting operation by the player is performed) (S700: YES), the shooting stop counter is cleared (S701), and the shooting is started. The firing duration is measured by the operation counter (S702). The “shooting stop counter” is a counter used for timing the shooting stop time when the player does not perform a shooting operation, and the “shooting continuation counter” is a game where the player performs a shooting operation continuously. This is a counter used to time the firing duration. These counters are incremented by 1 every 2 ms, which is the control cycle of the CPU 260b of the sub-control board 260a.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the firing duration is 5 minutes (S703). In the processing of S703, it may be determined whether or not the count value of the firing operation counter has reached “150,000 (× 2 ms ÷ 1000 ÷ 60 = 5 minutes)”. As a result, if it is determined that the firing duration is 5 minutes (S703: YES), the first stage flag is set to ON (S704), and the current firing duration is the first stage (5 minutes or more). A first stage notification effect indicating that it is less than 10 minutes) is executed (S705). In the present embodiment, the stage notification effect is performed by displaying the stage notification symbol in the display area of the effect display device 25 separately from the effect symbol. Specifically, the display size of the stage notification symbol is varied depending on the progress of the firing duration (each stage from the first stage to the fourth stage), and the display size of the stage notification pattern is changed as the stage progresses. By enlarging, the stage notification effect of the firing duration is performed.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in the determination process of S703 that the firing duration is not 5 minutes (S703: NO), it is determined whether the firing duration is 10 minutes (S706). In the processing of S706, it may be determined whether or not the count value of the firing operation counter has reached “300,000 (× 2 ms ÷ 1000 ÷ 60 = 10 minutes)”. As a result, if it is determined that the firing duration is 10 minutes (S706: YES), the first stage flag is set to OFF (S707), the second stage flag is set to ON (S708), A second stage notification effect indicating that the current firing duration is the second stage (10 minutes or more and less than 15 minutes) is executed (S709). Specifically, a stage notification design indicating that the current firing duration is the second stage, that is, a stage notification design that is greater than the first stage and smaller than the third stage. Is displayed in the display area of the effect display device 25.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in the determination process of S706 that the firing duration is not 10 minutes (S706: NO), it is determined whether or not the firing duration is 15 minutes (S710). In the processing of S710, it may be determined whether or not the count value of the firing operation counter has reached “450,000 (× 2 ms ÷ 1000 ÷ 60 = 15 minutes)”. As a result, when it is determined that the firing duration is 15 minutes (S710: YES), the second stage flag is set to OFF (S711), the third stage flag is set to ON (S712), A third stage notification effect indicating that the current firing duration is the third stage (15 minutes or more and less than 20 minutes) is executed (S713). Specifically, a stage notification design indicating that the current firing duration is the third stage, that is, a stage notification design that is larger than when the firing duration is the second stage and smaller than when it is the fourth stage. Is displayed in the display area of the effect display device 25.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in the determination process of S710 that the firing duration is not 15 minutes (S710: NO), it is determined whether the firing duration is 20 minutes (S714). In the processing of S714, it may be determined whether or not the count value of the firing operation counter has reached “600,000 (× 2 ms ÷ 1000 ÷ 60 = 20 minutes)”. As a result, when it is determined that the firing duration is 20 minutes (S714: YES), the third stage flag is set to OFF (S715), the fourth stage flag is set to ON (S716), A fourth stage notification effect indicating that the current firing duration is the fourth stage (20 minutes or more) is executed (S717). Specifically, a stage notification design indicating that the current firing duration is the fourth stage, that is, a stage notification design that is larger than the case where the firing duration is the third stage is displayed in the display area of the effect display device 25. To display.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the firing duration is not 20 minutes (the firing duration is less than 5 minutes or exceeds 20 minutes) (S714: NO), the firing operation monitoring process is terminated.

  Next, in the determination process of S700, when it is determined that the touch signal is not received (the player does not perform the shooting operation) (S700: NO), the shooting stop time of the shooting stop counter is calculated. Time is measured (S718). Then, it is determined whether or not the firing stop time is 5 minutes (S719). In the process of S719, it may be determined whether or not the count value of the firing stop counter has reached “150,000 (× 2 ms ÷ 1000 ÷ 60 = 5 minutes)”.

  As a result, when it is determined that the firing stop time is not 5 minutes (less than 5 minutes) (S719: NO), the firing operation monitoring process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the firing stop time is 5 minutes (S719: YES), all the stage flags are set to OFF (S720), the firing operation counter is cleared (S721), and the stage notification effect is displayed. The process ends (S722). Due to the end of the stage notification effect, the stage notification symbol is not displayed in the display area of the effect display device 25.

  Next, the symbol variation effect process performed mainly by the sub-control unit 260 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. FIG. 9 is an example of a symbol variation effect process performed under the control of the sub-control unit 260, and is executed as a subroutine of a main routine (not shown). 9 is executed by the CPU 260b mounted on the sub control board 260a based on a program stored in a ROM (not shown) (an internal ROM of the CPU 260b or a ROM mounted on the sub control board 260a). .

  First, in the process of S508j (see FIG. 6), it is determined whether or not a symbol variation start command transmitted from the main control unit 200 has been received (S800). As a result, when it is determined that the symbol variation start command has not been received (S800: NO), the process proceeds to S807 described later. On the other hand, if it is determined that the symbol variation start command has been received (S800: YES), it is determined whether the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit (S801). The result of the special symbol success / failure determination can be determined by the type of stop symbol of the special symbol designated by the stop information designation command.

  As a result, when it is determined that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit (S801: YES), a big hit effect pattern table distribution process is performed (S802). Here, the big hit effect pattern table distribution processing will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  The big hit effect pattern table distribution process is performed with reference to the setting states of the first stage flag, the second stage flag, the third stage flag, and the fourth stage flag by the above-described firing operation monitoring process (see FIG. 8). First, it is determined whether or not the first stage flag is set to ON (S802a). As a result, when it is determined that the first stage flag is set to ON (S802a: YES), the first stage big hit effect pattern table is set (S802b). On the other hand, when it is determined that the first stage flag is not set to ON (S802a: NO), it is determined whether or not the second stage flag is set to ON (S802c).

  As a result, when it is determined that the second stage flag is set to ON (S802c: YES), the second stage big hit effect pattern table is set (S802d). On the other hand, when it is determined that the second stage flag is not set to ON (S802c: NO), it is determined whether or not the third stage flag is set to ON (S802e).

  As a result, when it is determined that the third stage flag is set to ON (S802e: YES), the third stage big hit effect pattern table is set (S802f). On the other hand, when it is determined that the third stage flag is not set to ON (S802e: NO), it is determined whether or not the fourth stage flag is set to ON (S802g).

  As a result, when it is determined that the fourth stage flag is set to ON (S802g: YES), the fourth stage big hit effect pattern table is set (S802h). On the other hand, when it is determined that the fourth stage flag is not set to ON (S802g: NO), a normal big hit effect pattern table is set (S802i).

  In addition, as described above, the number of reach effect production patterns is different for each stage of the big hit production pattern table, and the number of reach production effect patterns (types of reach production) increases as the stage progresses. It is configured. Also, the normal big hit effect pattern table includes two types of reach effect patterns that are fewer than the first stage big hit effect pattern table.

  Next, returning to FIG. 9, when it is determined in S801 that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is not a big hit (S801: NO), the off-direction effect pattern table distribution process is performed (S802). Here, the off-direction production pattern table distribution processing will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  The off-stage effect pattern table distribution process is the same as the big hit effect pattern table distribution process, the first stage flag, the second stage flag, the third stage flag, and the fourth stage by the firing operation monitoring process (see FIG. 8). This is performed with reference to the flag setting status. First, it is determined whether or not the first stage flag is set to ON (S803a). As a result, when it is determined that the first stage flag is set to ON (S803a: YES), the stage-off stage effect pattern table is set (S803b). On the other hand, when it is determined that the first stage flag is not set to ON (S803a: NO), it is determined whether or not the second stage flag is set to ON (S803c).

  As a result, when it is determined that the second stage flag is set to ON (S803c: YES), the second stage out-of-stage effect pattern table is set (S803d). On the other hand, when it is determined that the second stage flag is not set to ON (S803c: NO), it is determined whether or not the third stage flag is set to ON (S803e).

  As a result, when it is determined that the third stage flag is set to ON (S803e: YES), the third stage off stage effect pattern table is set (S803f). On the other hand, when it is determined that the third stage flag is not set to ON (S803e: NO), it is determined whether or not the fourth stage flag is set to ON (S803g).

  As a result, when it is determined that the fourth stage flag is set to ON (S803g: YES), the stage 4 off stage production pattern table is set (S803h). On the other hand, when it is determined that the fourth stage flag is not set to ON (S803g: NO), the normal off-time effect pattern table is set (S803i).

  In addition, as described above, the number of reach effect production patterns is different for each out-of-stage production pattern table, and the number of reach production effect patterns (types of reach production) increases as the stages progress. It is configured. Also, the normal off-time effect pattern table includes two types of reach effect patterns that are less than the first-step off time effect pattern table.

  Next, returning to FIG. 9, using the effect pattern table set in the processing of S802 or S803, the effect symbol corresponding to the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol specified by the variation pattern designation command received in S800 The effect pattern (variable display effect, reach effect) is determined (S804). At this time, the content of the effect pattern to be determined changes according to the type of the effect pattern table set in the processing of S802 or S803 (the stage of the firing duration). That is, the “reach effect options (reach effect types and number)” differ depending on the type (stage of launch duration) of the effect pattern table set in the process of S802 or S803, and the launch duration is the first stage. As the process progresses from the fourth stage to the fourth stage, the types of reach effects (reach effects that may appear) that may be executed as symbol variation effects increase.

  Next, when the effect pattern of the effect symbol is determined, the stop symbol of the effect symbol is determined based on the stop information designation command received in S800 (S805). Then, in accordance with the determined production pattern, the production symbol variation display is started in the display area of the production display device 25 (S806). With the start of the variation display of the effect symbol, the symbol variation effect is started.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the symbol stop command transmitted from the main control unit 200 has been received in the process of S511 (see FIG. 5B) (S807). As a result, when it is determined that the symbol stop command has not been received (S807: NO), the symbol variation effect process is terminated, and when it is determined that the symbol stop command has been received (S807: YES), the effect symbol variation display in the display area of the effect display device 25 is terminated, and the stop symbol determined in S805 is stopped and displayed (S808). The symbol change effect is ended by the stop display of the stop symbol of the effect symbol (end of the change display of the effect symbol).

  Here, the correspondence between the processing shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 5 to 11 and each means of the present invention will be described. The processing of S702 (FIG. 8) corresponds to the firing time measuring means, and S705, S709, The processes of S713 and S717 (FIG. 8) correspond to the continuous operation effect executing means, the process of S806 (FIG. 9) corresponds to the symbol variation effect executing means, and the processes of S802 and S803 (FIGS. 10 and 11) are effected. It corresponds to the pattern selection means.

  In the present embodiment described above, it is possible to realize a game property in which the type (number) of reach effects (design variation effects) increases / decreases (changes) according to the length of the game ball firing duration by the player. it can. Further, in this embodiment, the stage notification effect actively notifies the player of the current stage (elapsed state) of the firing duration, so the player can easily grasp the firing operation duration. be able to. In particular, in this embodiment, the stage notification effect is a visual effect using the display area of the effect display device 25, so that the player can visually grasp how long the firing operation continues. As a result, the player can fully recognize the gameability that the types of reach effects (design variation effects) become richer as the firing operation is continued, and as a result, the game entertainment can be improved. .

  Also, changing the type of reach production (the number of design patterns of the design variation production) according to the duration of the launch will incentivize the player to continue to launch the game ball, and as a result, improve the operating rate of the gaming machine Can be made.

  Further, in this embodiment, it is configured to determine whether or not the player is continuously performing the operation of launching the game ball using the touch switch 8a normally provided in the gaming machine 1. As described above, by detecting the launch operation using the existing hardware configuration, it is not necessary to separately provide a sensor for detecting the player's launch operation.

(Second embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the second embodiment, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described.

  In the said 1st Example, it comprised so that the number of effect patterns of a reach effect may be varied with the some effect pattern table linked | related with the firing continuation time. However, in this 2nd Example, it was linked | related with the firing continuation time. A plurality of notice effect pattern tables are configured so that the number of effect patterns of the notice effect for notifying the player of the possibility of occurrence of a big hit or reach effect is different.

  In the second embodiment, the number of characters of the notice effect included in each of the plurality of notice effect pattern tables is different, and the notice effect pattern table having a larger number of characters is selected as the firing duration time is longer. The notice effect pattern table with a smaller number of characters as the time is shorter is selected.

  Specifically, the first-stage notice effect pattern table includes three types of characters, the second-stage notice effect pattern table includes five types of characters, and the third-stage notice effect pattern table includes eight types. Are included, and the fourth stage notice effect pattern table includes 10 types of characters. For this reason, the longer the firing duration, the greater the number of characters of the notice effect that can be selected, and the number of kinds of notice effects increases. It should be noted that the notice effect pattern table at each stage is provided for each of cases where the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit and a case where it is out of place.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the symbol variation effect process of the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 9 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12, in the second embodiment, when it is determined that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination process is a big hit (S801: YES), it is determined whether or not the notice effect is to be executed (S809). ). Whether or not to execute the notice effect can be determined based on the variation pattern designation command received from the main control unit 200.

  As a result, if it is determined not to execute the notice effect (S809: NO), the process proceeds to S812, and if it is determined to execute the notice effect (S809: YES), the big hit notice effect pattern Table distribution processing is performed (S810). Here, the big hit announcement effect pattern table distribution processing will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  The big hit announcement effect pattern table distribution process is performed with reference to the setting status of the first stage flag, the second stage flag, the third stage flag, and the fourth stage flag by the aforementioned firing operation monitoring process (see FIG. 8). First, it is determined whether or not the first stage flag is set to ON (S810a). As a result, when it is determined that the first stage flag is set to ON (S810a: YES), the first stage big hit notice effect pattern table is set (S810b). On the other hand, when it is determined that the first stage flag is not set to ON (S810a: NO), it is determined whether or not the second stage flag is set to ON (S810c).

  As a result, when it is determined that the second stage flag is set to ON (S810c: YES), the second stage big hit announcement effect pattern table is set (S810d). On the other hand, if it is determined that the second stage flag is not set to ON (S810c: NO), it is determined whether or not the third stage flag is set to ON (S810e).

  As a result, when it is determined that the third stage flag is set to ON (S810e: YES), the third stage big hit announcement effect pattern table is set (S810f). On the other hand, when it is determined that the third stage flag is not set to ON (S810e: NO), it is determined whether or not the fourth stage flag is set to ON (S810g).

  As a result, when it is determined that the fourth stage flag is set to ON (S810g: YES), the fourth stage big hit notice effect pattern table is set (S810h). On the other hand, when it is determined that the fourth stage flag is not set to ON (S810g: NO), a normal big hit announcement effect pattern table is set (S810i). It should be noted that the normal jackpot notice effect pattern table includes two types of characters that are fewer than the first stage jackpot notice effect pattern table.

  Next, returning to FIG. 12, a notice effect pattern is determined using the notice effect pattern table set in the process of S810 (S811). At this time, the content of the determined announcement effect pattern changes in accordance with the type of the big hit announcement effect pattern table set in the processing of S810 (the stage of the firing duration). That is, the “number of characters in the notice effect” differs depending on the type of the big hit notice effect pattern table set in the processing of S810 (the stage of the firing duration), and the firing duration is from the first stage to the fourth stage. As the process proceeds, the types (number) of characters that can be used in the notice effect increase.

  Then, the big hit effect pattern table is set (S812), and using the set big hit effect pattern table, it corresponds to the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol specified by the variation pattern designation command received in S800. The effect pattern (variable display effect, reach effect) of the effect symbol is determined (S813).

  Next, a case will be described in which it is determined in the determination process of S801 that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination process is not a big hit (out of reach). Even when it is determined that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination process is not a big hit (out of the game) (S801: NO), it is determined whether or not a notice effect is executed (S814).

  As a result, when it is determined that the notice effect is not executed (S814: NO), the process proceeds to S817, and when it is determined that the notice effect is executed (S814: YES), the notice effect pattern at the time of departure is determined. Table distribution processing is performed (S815). Here, the off-notice notice effect pattern table distribution process will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  The off-notice notice effect pattern table distribution process is the same as the big hit notice effect pattern table distribution process, the first stage flag, the second stage flag, the third stage flag and the first stage by the launch operation monitoring process (see FIG. 8). This is performed with reference to the setting status of the four-stage flag. First, it is determined whether or not the first-stage flag is set to ON (S815a). As a result, when it is determined that the first stage flag is set to ON (S815a: YES), a notice effect pattern table at the time of the first stage off is set (S815b). On the other hand, if it is determined that the first stage flag is not set to ON (S815a: NO), it is determined whether or not the second stage flag is set to ON (S815c).

  As a result, when it is determined that the second stage flag is set to ON (S815c: YES), a notice effect pattern table at the time of the second stage off is set (S815d). On the other hand, when it is determined that the second stage flag is not set to ON (S815c: NO), it is determined whether or not the third stage flag is set to ON (S815e).

  As a result, when it is determined that the third stage flag is set to ON (S815e: YES), the third stage off time notice effect pattern table is set (S815f). On the other hand, if it is determined that the third stage flag is not set to ON (S815e: NO), it is determined whether or not the fourth stage flag is set to ON (S815g).

  As a result, when it is determined that the fourth stage flag is set to ON (S815g: YES), a notice effect pattern table at the time of the fourth stage off is set (S815h). On the other hand, if it is determined that the fourth stage flag is not set to ON (S815g: NO), the normal off-time notice effect pattern table is set (S815i). The normal off-time notice effect pattern table includes two types of characters less than the first off-time notice effect pattern table.

  Next, returning to FIG. 12, the notice effect pattern is determined using the notice effect pattern table set in the process of S815 (S816). At this time, the content of the determined announcement effect pattern changes in accordance with the type of release notification effect pattern table set in the process of S815 (the stage of the firing duration). In other words, the “number of characters in the notice effect” differs depending on the type of the notice effect pattern table at the time of detachment set in the process of S815 (stage of the firing duration), and the firing duration is from the first stage to the fourth stage. As the process proceeds, the types (number) of characters that can be used in the notice effect increase.

  Then, the off-time effect pattern table is set (S817), and the set off-time effect pattern table is used to correspond to the variation pattern (variation time) of the special symbol specified by the variation pattern designation command received at S800. An effect pattern (variable display effect, reach effect) of the effect symbol is determined (S818).

  Next, the stop symbol of the effect symbol is determined based on the stop information designation command received in S800 (S805), and the symbol variation effect is started (S806). Then, it is determined whether or not a symbol stop command has been received (S807). If it is determined that a symbol stop command has not been received (S807: NO), the symbol variation effect process is terminated, and the symbol stop command is terminated. Is determined to be received (S807: YES), the stop symbol determined in S805 is stopped and displayed, and the symbol variation effect is terminated (S808).

  According to the configuration of the second embodiment described above, the type (number) of characters used in the notice effect (design variation effect) increases or decreases (changes) according to the duration of the game ball fired by the player. It is possible to realize a game of playing. Thereby, the player can fully recognize the gameability that the types (numbers) of the notice effects (design variation effects) become richer as the firing operation is continued, thereby improving the game entertainment. be able to.

  In addition, according to the configuration in which the number of characters used in the notice effect is changed as in the present embodiment, it is not necessary to increase the effect pattern itself of the notice effect, as compared to a structure in which a plurality of reach effect effect patterns are provided. Less memory capacity is required.

(Other embodiments)
As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to this, Unless it deviates from the range described in each claim, it is not limited to the description word of each claim, and those skilled in the art Improvements based on the knowledge that a person skilled in the art normally has can be added as appropriate to the extent that they can be easily replaced.

  For example, in each of the above-described embodiments, the example of performing the reach effect or the notice effect as the symbol variation effect has been described. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the development effect, the appearance frequency, which is a development effect of the reach effect as the symbol variation effect You may perform a premiere production with a very low. Furthermore, when a game ball enters the start port 28 and a special symbol hold occurs, whether or not the hold is a hit hold that generates a big hit prior to the special symbol success determination In the gaming machine that performs the determination (holding prefetching) and performs the holding prefetching effect for notifying that when a winning hold occurs, the holding prefetching effect may be performed as the symbol variation effect. Then, the number (type) of effect patterns for the premier effect and the pre-reading effect may be increased / decreased (changed) in accordance with the progress of the firing duration as in the above embodiments.

  Further, in each of the above embodiments, the effect pattern table that includes more selectable effect patterns is set as the firing duration is longer, and the effect that includes fewer selectable effect patterns as the firing duration is shorter. The pattern table is configured to be set. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the longer the firing duration is, the fewer production patterns that can be selected are set, and the shorter the firing duration is, the more selectable An effect pattern table including many effect patterns may be set. For example, in a configuration in which a reach effect is performed as a symbol variation effect, a plurality of off-state effect pattern tables can be configured such that the number of reach effects decreases as the firing duration time increases. With such a configuration, it is possible to realize the gameability that the possibility of a big hit is high when a reach effect appears in a state where the firing duration is long.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the visual effect is performed using the display area of the effect display device 25 as the continuous operation effect. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the sound output from the speakers 10a to 10d. May be used as an auditory effect, and both a visual effect and an auditory effect may be performed as a continuous operation effect.

  In each of the above embodiments, the number of effect patterns included in the plurality of effect pattern tables is changed according to the length of the firing duration. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the same effect is provided in each effect pattern table. Patterns may be included, and the selection rate (appearance rate) of each effect pattern may be varied for each effect pattern table. Further, the contents of the effect patterns included in each effect pattern table may be changed without changing the number of effect patterns included in each effect pattern table. For example, in the case of a configuration in which a plurality of notice effect pattern tables are provided according to the length of the firing duration, the first stage notice effect pattern table is “Character A”, the second stage notice effect pattern table is “Character B”, Different types of characters can be used in each notice effect pattern table, such as “Character C” in the third stage notice effect pattern table and “Character D” in the fourth stage notice effect pattern table.

  In each of the above embodiments, it is determined that the player is performing a shooting operation of the game ball based on the fact that the touch sensor 8a detects that the player touches the shooting handle 8. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a launch ball detection switch for detecting a game ball launched in the game area 21 of the game board 20 is provided, and the player performs a launch operation of the game ball based on the sensor signal of the launch ball detection switch. You may comprise so that it may determine.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine, 8 ... Launching handle (launching operation means), 8a ... Touch switch (contact detection means), 28 ... Starting port, 33a ... Grand prize opening, 61 ... Special symbol display part, 200 ... Main control part, 260 ... sub-control unit (launch time measuring means, continuous operation effect executing means, symbol variation effect executing means, effect pattern storage means, effect pattern selecting means).

Claims (3)

In a gaming machine that executes a symbol variation game in which a lottery symbol is variably displayed by establishment of a predetermined condition and the lottery symbol is stopped and displayed after a predetermined time has elapsed.
A launch operation means operated by a player to launch a game ball on the game board;
A firing time measuring means for measuring a firing duration in which the firing operation means is continuously operated by a player;
A continuation operation effect executing means for executing a continuation operation effect according to the firing duration;
A symbol variation effect execution means for executing a symbol variation effect accompanying the symbol variation game;
Production pattern storage means for storing a plurality of production patterns of the symbol variation production in association with the firing duration;
At the start of the symbol variation game, as the effect pattern of the symbol variation effect to be executed in association with the symbol variation game, from among the plurality of effect patterns stored in the effect pattern storage means, An effect pattern selecting means for selecting a specific effect pattern according to the firing duration time.   2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the effect pattern storage means varies the number of the effect patterns corresponding to the firing duration according to the length of the firing duration. Contact detection means for detecting that a player is touching the firing operation means,
2. The firing time measuring means measures, as the firing duration time, a time during which it is continuously detected that the player is touching the firing operation means by the contact detecting means. 2. The gaming machine according to 2.

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