JP2011115629A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enhance and improve the excitement and amusement of a game machine while following the existing rule that a jackpot pocket (regardless of the size of the pocket that needs to be opened in case of a big win) should be opened whenever a ball has entered a prize-win port. <P>SOLUTION: This game machine produces a non-notifying state where a player is not notified of being in a jackpot state with fluctuating winning rates, when a sub jackpot pocket 401 is opened for only a little time to allow game balls in instead of a main jackpot pocket 400. Only when the game machine produces the non-notifying state, the sub jackpot pocket 401 is allowed to be opened for receiving game balls. In the meantime, when the game machine produces any state other than the non-notifying state, the sub jackpot pocket 401 activates a sub win character 452 incorporated therein, as the game machine activates the sub win character 452 in an ordinary game play state. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine.

Conventionally, in a pachinko machine, when a game ball enters the winning prize opening (wins), symbols (and / or numbers) displayed in a plurality of display areas of the symbol display device, for example, three display areas arranged in the left-right direction. ) Fluctuate, and if the symbols after the stop (stop symbols) are aligned in a predetermined pattern, there will be a big hit and the big prize opening will be opened. Also, to increase the player's interest by changing the probability of a big hit (hit probability) on the condition that it stops at a specific type of symbol, for example, “7, 7, 7” or “3, 3, 3”, etc. Model with a so-called probability variation function, or a model with a time shortening function that shortens the time of symbol variation and increases the number of lottery lottery within a predetermined period instead of changing the jackpot probability Has become commonplace.
Furthermore, in recent years, unlike the conventional jackpot opening process of the big prize winning hole, even though the display of the displayed symbols is not actually recognized, it is considered as a big hit. A game machine equipped with a “sudden probability change” function (abrupt probability change) function to change the jackpot probability after opening for a predetermined period of time and a “sudden time shortening” function (abrupt time reduction) function to shorten the time of symbol change Has been. (See Patent Document 1 below).

JP 2005-168619 A

  However, since there is a rule that a big winning opening must be opened if a big win comes out, in order to satisfy this condition, if the existing big winning opening described above is opened for a second predetermined time, The fact that the big prize opening that opens only occasionally opens, the player is recognized that there was a big hit. Therefore, even if the game is pretending to be a normal game, the player recognizes that the jackpot with probability variation or the jackpot with time reduction has actually occurred due to the opening operation of the prize winning opening, and so on. Even if a sudden transition to a gaming state that is more advantageous than the normal game occurs, there is a problem that it does not give a special excitement, and does not increase or improve the intention to express.

  Therefore, the present invention increases the preference of gaming machines in the existing rules that if a big win comes out, a big winning opening (a winning opening that needs to be opened at the time of a big win, regardless of the size) must be opened. The purpose is to provide a gaming machine that can improve the performance and demonstrate the superiority over other models, thereby dramatically improving the operating rate of the gaming machine.

The gaming machine according to the present invention is
Special game state lottery means for deciding whether or not to shift to any of the special game states that are more advantageous to the player than the normal game, triggered by the game ball entering the starting port,
Special game state type lottery means for determining the type of the above-mentioned special game state triggered by the game ball entering the starting port,
A variable winning device having a winning movable portion that allows the game ball to be entered by operating the opening to be openable and closable when the special gaming state is reached;
And having
As one of the special games executed during the plurality of types of special game states, at least a variable winning device that is closed during a normal game by the operation of the winning movable unit can predict a plurality of balls. The first special game that is released for a predetermined time and the variable winning device that is closed during the normal game by the operation of the winning movable part can enter at least one game ball and is longer than the first predetermined time. A second special game that is opened for a short second predetermined time,
The special game state lottery means decides to shift to the special game state, and the special game state type lottery means decides that it will be given a value more advantageous than the normal game after the end of any special game. In a gaming machine having a gaming mode in which at least a second special game is executed and a transition is made to a gaming state in which an advantageous value is given thereafter,
As the variable winning device, a first variable winning device used in the first special game and a second variable winning device used in the second special game are provided,
In addition, one or more effect movable parts for making it difficult to recognize the presence of the second variable winning device are provided.

  According to the present invention, in the existing rules that if a big win comes out, a big prize opening (a big or small prize opening that needs to be opened at the time of a big win) must be opened, Achieves improvement and demonstrates superiority over other models, thereby producing the effect of dramatically improving the operating rate of gaming machines.

The front view of a pachinko machine. The perspective view of a pachinko machine. The front view which shows the structure of a game board. Schematic diagram around the main prize winning entrance Front view of the subsidiary character Perspective view of the accessory Exploded perspective view of the accessory Detailed structure drawing concerning solenoid SL of FIG. Drive timing chart of secondary role The block diagram which shows the electrical constitution of a pachinko machine. The schematic diagram of the display screen of a decoration symbol display apparatus. The figure which showed the outline | summary of the various counters in a main controller. The flowchart which showed the main process performed by MPU in a main controller. The flowchart which showed the normal process performed by MPU in a main controller. The flowchart which showed the special symbol fluctuation | variation process performed in the normal process of FIG. The flowchart which showed the change start process performed in the special symbol change process of FIG. The flowchart which showed the timer interruption process. 18 is a flowchart showing a start winning process executed in the timer interrupt process of FIG. The flowchart which showed NMI interruption processing. The flowchart which showed the main process performed by MPU in a sub control apparatus. The flowchart which showed the normal process performed by MPU in a sub control apparatus. The flowchart which shows the display control process performed by MPU in a display control apparatus. The flowchart which showed the main process of the payout control apparatus. The flowchart which showed payout control processing. The flowchart which showed the prize ball control process. The flowchart which showed the ball rental control process. The flowchart (for special processing) which shows the whole flow until it produces sudden chance change. The flowchart (for normal time) which shows the whole flow until it produces a sudden probability variation. Functional block diagram for controlling the second variable winning device Secondary accessory solenoid drive pattern table corresponding to design variation pattern Main flowchart of driving process of second variable winning device Process flow chart at the time of receiving a variation pattern command of the driving process of the second variable winning device Processing flowchart when receiving a stop symbol command of the driving process of the second variable winning device Process flowchart at the time of receiving a confirmation command for the driving process of the second variable winning device Process flowchart at the time of receiving an opening command of the driving process of the second variable winning device Functional block diagram of the production control solenoid control unit Flow chart of the main process of the production movable unit solenoid control unit フ ロ ー チ ャ ー ト Flowchart of main processing of solenoid controller Functional block diagram for performing notification processing The flowchart showing the process of the notification process 1 The flowchart showing the process of the notification process 2 Schematic diagram showing the flow of game balls in the jackpot non-notification mode Schematic diagram showing the control of the windmill in the jackpot non-notification mode Schematic diagram showing the flow of game balls in normal time and notification mode Schematic diagram showing the control of the windmill in normal time and in the notification mode Schematic diagram showing the flow of game balls in the jackpot non-notification mode, normal time and notification mode

In describing the present invention, the meaning of names will be described.
“Special game state lottery means” refers to a jackpot random number counter C1 or the like.
The “special game state type” includes not only a normal jackpot but also a jackpot with probability variation and / or a jackpot with time reduction.
“Special game state type lottery means” refers to a jackpot random number counter C2 or the like.
The “first variable winning device” refers to an opening (main prize winning port 400 in the embodiment) and a winning movable portion (shutter 62 in the embodiment).
The “second variable winning device” refers to an opening (sub-large winning opening 401 in the embodiment) and a winning movable portion (嘴 452A in the embodiment).
The “first predetermined time during which a plurality of balls can be predicted” refers to a plurality of winnings under a winning rate determined based on the maximum number of game balls fired per unit time and the nail adjustment state on the game board. The time when a sphere can be predicted.
“The second predetermined time in which at least one game ball can enter and is shorter than the first predetermined time” means the maximum number of game balls fired per unit time and the nail adjustment state on the game board The minimum time during which at least one game ball can enter the game is determined under the winning rate determined based on the above.
“Production movable part” refers to the neck 452B and the blade 452C in the embodiment.
The “first display means” refers to the decorative symbol display device 42 and the like.
“Second display means” refers to special symbol display lamps 38a, 38b, and the like.
The “special game state notification mode” refers to a case where a big hit is made in a state where stop symbols are aligned in a predetermined pattern such as “7, 7, 7” or the like.
The “special game state non-notification mode” refers to a case where a big hit is made in a state where the stop symbols are not arranged in a predetermined symbol such as “7, 4, 2”.
The “opening / closing member” refers to the pair of opening / closing blades 430 in the embodiment.
The “normal state” means a state excluding a special state such as a special game state.

In the gaming machine of means 1 according to the present invention:
Special game state lottery means for deciding whether or not to shift to any of the special game states that are more advantageous to the player than the normal game, triggered by the game ball entering the starting port,
Special game state type lottery means for determining the type of the above-mentioned special game state triggered by the game ball entering the starting port,
A variable winning device having a winning movable portion that allows the game ball to be entered by operating the opening to be openable and closable when the special gaming state is reached;
And having
As one of the special games executed during the plurality of types of special game states, at least a variable winning device that is closed during a normal game by the operation of the winning movable unit can predict a plurality of balls. The first special game that is released for a predetermined time and the variable winning device that is closed during the normal game by the operation of the winning movable part can enter at least one game ball and is longer than the first predetermined time. A second special game that is opened for a short second predetermined time,
The special game state lottery means decides to shift to the special game state, and the special game state type lottery means decides that it will be given a value more advantageous than the normal game after the end of any special game. In a gaming machine having a gaming mode in which at least a second special game is executed and a transition is made to a gaming state in which an advantageous value is given thereafter,
As the variable winning device, a first variable winning device used in the first special game and a second variable winning device used in the second special game are provided,
And one or more production | presentation movable parts for making it difficult to recognize the presence of the said 2nd variable prize-winning apparatus are provided.

Since there is an existing rule that a big winning opening (winning movable part of a variable winning device) must be opened when entering the special gaming state, for example, the special gaming state with probability change or the special gaming state with time reduction When shifting to, the variable winning device must be opened for a short time. However, as described above, even if there are a plurality of variable winning awards and one of the plurality of variable winning devices (second variable winning device) operates for a second predetermined time, the player Since there are many points to watch, such as other variable winning devices (first variable winning device), it is difficult for the player to recognize that the player has shifted to the second special game.
Furthermore, since the variable winning device is composed of a plurality of movable parts, if a movable part (effect movable part) other than the winning movable part is frequently operated in the normal gaming state, the process shifts to the second special game. At this time, even if the winning movable portion of the second variable winning device is opened, the player recognizes that only one of the plurality of movable portions has been activated, and has moved to this second special game. It is possible to further suppress the player's enlightenment, and the production effect is much higher than the production in the conventional sudden probability change state and sudden short time state. Further, even if the game ball is difficult to enter the winning movable portion of the second variable winning device, the winning movable portion of the second variable winning device is difficult to be recognized by the player. Even if the player does not enter the ball, the player can be prevented from feeling lost.

Mean 2: A gaming machine of means 1,
The one or more effect movable parts are provided around the second variable winning device.

  As described above, by providing the one or more effect movable parts around the second variable prize device, the prize movable part and the plurality of movable parts of the second variable prize device can be further distinguished. This makes it difficult for the player to recognize that the player has shifted to the second special game by operating the winning movable portion. Further, by operating the plurality of movable parts in synchronism with the operation timing of the winning movable part of the second variable winning device, the player recognizes these movable parts as one large accessory, This has the effect of making it difficult to recognize that the variable prize opening is provided.

Means 3: A gaming machine of means 1 and means 2,
A main control device having the special game state lottery means and controlling the entire game, and a sub-control device connected to the main control device so as to be capable of data communication;
The main control device includes a first variable winning device control means for controlling the winning movable portion of the first variable winning device, and a second variable winning device control means for controlling the winning movable portion of the second variable winning device. And
The sub-control device has movable part control means for controlling the one or more effect movable parts.
The movable part control means performs control based on a signal relating to a game effect from the main control device sent to the sub-control device.

  As described above, since the effect movable unit is controlled by the second variable winning device control means in the sub control means, the control burden on the main control means can be reduced. Furthermore, by having the movable part control means in the sub-control means, it is possible to operate the movable part using commands relating to various effects sent from the main control means to the sub-control means. For example, using the variation pattern command indicating the variation mode of the variation symbol based on the determination of the special gaming state lottery means, the symbol determination command for stopping the variation symbol, etc. A variety of movable parts can be operated. Then, the plurality of movable parts frequently operate in the normal game state other than the big hit time, and even if the second variable winning device is operated at the big hit time (the transition to the second special game), The player simply recognizes that it is a kind of operation of the movable part in the normal gaming state, and is less likely to realize that a jackpot has occurred.

Means 4: A gaming machine of means 1 to means 3,
First display means for variably displaying a plurality of symbols,
The sub-control means autonomously determines a symbol displayed by the first display means based on a signal including information indicating the gaming state determined by the special gaming state lottery means sent from the main control means. Comprising display control means,
As a display mode at the time of symbol determination of the first display means, a special game state notification mode for notifying the player that the first special game is executed and subsequently shifted to a game state to which an advantageous value is given; And a special game state non-notification mode in which the player is not notified that the second special game is executed and subsequently shifted to a gaming state to which an advantageous value is given, and the symbol display control means includes the display The display control of the first display means is performed so as to be displayed in a manner.
“Determining the display mode autonomously” means that the main control unit does not determine the display mode but uniquely determines the display mode based on the signal received by the sub-control unit.

The player looks at the first display means, for example, a changing symbol displayed on a display device for production such as the decorative symbol display device 42, etc. for most of the time during the game. That is, it is general to determine whether or not the player has shifted to the special gaming state based on the type of symbol displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42 or the like. For example, when the symbols such as “7, 7, 7” are arranged on the decorative symbol display device 42, the player can determine that the player has shifted to the special game state of “big hit with probability variation”.
As described above, the display control means included in the sub-control means determines the relationship between the contents of the special game state to be transferred and the symbols displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42.
In the display control means included in the sub-control means, the relationship between the contents of the special gaming state to be transferred and the displayed symbol (for example, “7, 7, 7” is “a jackpot with probability variation” if “7, 7, 7” is a stop symbol), If “4, 2” is a stop symbol, changing “off” etc.) makes it impossible for the player to determine whether or not the game state has shifted to a predetermined special gaming state gaming state. For example, when the sub-control board is notified that a “big hit with probability variation” has occurred on the main control board, the sub-control board indicates that “7, 7, 7” should be displayed as “1, If the stop symbols are not aligned, such as “4, 5”, the player will recognize that it is “disconnected” despite the big hit.
Such a display mode is referred to as the above-mentioned special gaming state non-notification mode, and on the contrary, when a stop symbol such as “7, 7, 7” is arranged, the conventional display mode that represents a jackpot is referred to as a special gaming state notification mode. .
In the case of the above-mentioned special state non-notification mode, even if the game state has shifted to “big hit with probability variation”, the player recognizes “out” because the symbol display is “out”. Even if the subsequent gaming state is actually a “probability variation state”, the player has already recognized that it is “out”, that is, the subsequent gaming state is recognized as a normal state. Then, it is possible to create a special effect that shows the jackpot effect that can only occur from the probability fluctuation state as if it had occurred from the normal state, effectively directing the "sudden probability change" that is generally said Furthermore, when used in combination with the means 1, the effect of concealing the event that has shifted to the special gaming state due to the operation of the second variable winning device in the means 1 is brought to a markedly excellent effect.

Means 5: In the gaming machine of means 4, the game board surface is configured as a non-target in front view so that one side is a main game ball passage and the other side is a sub game ball passage, and the second variable A gaming machine, characterized in that a winning device is provided in the auxiliary gaming ball passage.
In this way, by providing the second variable prize device in the secondary game ball passage, where the passing of game balls is essentially small, the main variable prize device can be changed even when the probability variation starts in the special game state non-notification mode. Without opening, the rule of opening the variable winning device (large winning opening) at the start of the special gaming state is realized with the second variable winning device that allows winning in the game ball passage on the side where the passing of game balls is originally small Therefore, it is difficult for the player to realize that the jackpot with probability variation has started, in combination with the function of the first display means in the same way as the off-lottery state.

Means 6: In the gaming machine of means 5, at least one movable part of the effect movable part operates when it reaches a reach state.
As long as at least one movable part is actuated when reaching the reach state as in the above configuration, the reach state generally occurs frequently, so that the effect movable part frequently operates during the game. . Therefore, even if the winning movable portion of the second variable winning device, which is one of the plurality of movable portions, is activated, the player can move the winning movable portion of the second variable winning device. Since it becomes difficult to recognize, the above-mentioned effects are further exhibited. However, the present invention is not limited to the reach state, and may be operated in a reach notice state.

Mean 7: In the gaming machine of means 5 or means 6, a through gate is provided in the main game ball passage.
As described above, since the through gate is provided in the main game ball passage, it is strongly recognized that the left board surface is the main game ball passage, and attention is paid to the passage of the game ball to the through gate. Even if the winning movable portion of the second variable winning device is opened in the secondary gaming ball passage in the special gaming state non-notification mode, it is difficult to recognize that the special gaming state has started.

Means 8: In the gaming machine of means 5 to means 7, in the main game ball passage, a guide nail is extended to an end portion of the main character.
As described above, the guide nails are extended to the end of the main character, so that the winning rate in the main game ball passage is increased, the game balls are driven into the main game ball passage, Even if the second variable winning device functions in the game ball passage, it is difficult to be recognized.

Means 9: In the gaming machine of means 5 to means 8, the number of guide nails is larger in the main game ball passage than in the sub game ball passage.
As described above, the main game ball passage has a larger number of guide nails than the sub game ball passage, so that the winning rate in the main game ball passage is high, and the left board surface is the main game ball passage. When the second variable winning device functions in the auxiliary game ball passage in the special gaming state non-notification mode, it is difficult to recognize.

Means 10: In the gaming machines of Means 5 to 9, a protrusion that prevents the game ball from being carried to the side of the secondary game ball passage is provided at the upper end of the main character.
In this way, by providing a protrusion that prevents the game ball from being carried on the side of the secondary game ball passage, in the special game state non-notification mode, most of the game balls that have been driven are directed toward the main game ball passage. By forcibly guiding, the winning rate in the direction of the main game ball path can be increased.

Means 11: In the gaming machine of means 4 to means 10, in the gaming state in which an advantageous value after execution of the second special game in the special gaming state non-notification mode is given, the display mode of the first display unit is normal. It is characterized by being configured differently.
In this way, in the gaming state (probability variation state, time shortening state, etc.) to which an advantageous value after execution of the second special game in the special gaming state non-notification mode is given, the display mode of the first display means is normal. If it is configured differently from the above, it is difficult for the player to recognize that a special game has occurred when the winning movable portion of the second variable winning device is operated, but it is advantageous in the subsequent probability fluctuation state, time reduction state, etc. The player is surely recognized that the game state has been given a certain value.
Note that the display mode is different from the normal mode, for example, by changing the character from the normal mode or changing the background color from the normal mode.

Means 12: In the gaming machines of means 4 to 11, the starting port is provided with an opening / closing member capable of taking an open position for guiding the game ball and a closed position where the game ball is difficult to enter. In the notification mode, the opening / closing member in the gaming state in which the second special game is executed and the advantageous value is given thereafter performs its opening / closing operation so that the probability of entering the opening / closing member is higher than normal. Features.
If the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing member in the special gaming state non-notification mode is performed so that the probability of entering the opening / closing member is higher than normal, the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing member changes. Therefore, it is difficult for the player to recognize that a special gaming state has occurred when the winning movable portion of the second variable winning device is activated, but a game with advantageous values such as a probability variation state or a time shortening state thereafter. The player is surely aware of the transition to the state.

Means 13: In the gaming machines of means 4 to 10, in the gaming state in which an advantageous value after execution of the second special game in the special gaming state non-notification mode is given, the display mode of the first display unit is set to the normal state. It is characterized by being comprised similarly.
In this way, in the gaming state (probability variation state, time shortening state, etc.) to which an advantageous value after execution of the second special game in the special gaming state non-notification mode is given, the display mode of the first display means is normal. Games that have the same value (such as the background color does not change, or the characters are the same), etc. Since the display mode of the first display means does not change even in the state, it is difficult for the player to recognize that the game state is provided with an advantageous value such as a probability variation state or a time reduction state.

Means 14: In the gaming machines of means 4 to 10 and means 13, the starting port is provided with an opening / closing member capable of taking an open position for guiding the game ball and a closed position where the game ball is difficult to enter. In the state non-notification mode, the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing member is configured to be the same as in a normal state.
In this way, in the special game state non-notification mode, if the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing member is configured to be the same as in the normal state, it is advantageous for the probability variation state and the time shortening state after the special game occurs. It is difficult for the player to recognize that the gaming state is given value.

Means 15: In the gaming machine of means 14, a wavy stage disposed above the start opening;
A windmill disposed below the stage;
While restricting entry of game balls to the start opening in the normal state, entry of game balls is promoted after the second special game is completed and the game state is shifted to an advantageous value. A windmill control mechanism for controlling the position of the windmill,
It is characterized by having.
In this way, a windmill and a windmill control mechanism for controlling the windmill are provided, and the game ball that has dropped from the stage is normally restricted from entering the start of the game ball, so that the probability variation state and / or time reduction After transitioning to a gaming state to which an advantageous value such as a state is given, by promoting its entry, the benefits that were originally enjoyed when a special gaming state with probability variation occurred, for example, an opening / closing member By controlling the windmill in this way, it is possible to obtain another form without winning by the operation of the non-announcement as a result of the introduction of the non-notification mode. It can be enjoyed at the same time, and it is possible to prevent any disadvantage from being introduced by introducing the non-notification mode.
Means 16: In the gaming machine of means 15, the wavy stage is provided with a recess for guiding a game ball,
The windmill control mechanism arranges the support shaft of the windmill on a virtual extension line at the center of the recess and on the lateral side of the start port, and normally the front end side of the support shaft is used as the start port. In a gaming state in which an advantageous value after the second special game in the special game state non-notification mode is given by suppressing the entry of the game ball into the starting port by tilting in the approaching direction, the support shaft The front end side is inclined and displaced in a direction away from the starting port, thereby promoting the entry of game balls.
As a result, it is possible to control the entry of the game ball into the start opening with only a slight change that tilts and displaces the tip end side of the support shaft of the windmill. Benefits can be realized.

Means 17: In the gaming machine of means 15 or means 16, the windmill control mechanism is provided on the lateral side of the life nail of the start opening so that the game ball guided by the windmill enters the start opening with higher probability. A guide nail is included.
Thus, by providing a guide nail (guide nail) on the lateral side of the life nail of the starting port, it is possible to more reliably control when the game ball enters the starting port by the windmill described above. it can.
Means 18: detecting means for detecting that the player has released his / her hand from the game ball launching handle in the gaming machines of means 13 to 17;
A holding ball presence / absence determining means for determining whether or not a holding ball of the special game state lottery exists;
Suddenly probable hit state flag indicating a special gaming state non-notification mode,
Informing means for informing that it is a special gaming state non-notification mode,
Notification control means for controlling the driving of the notification means;
With
In the special game state non-notification mode, the notification control means indicates that the player has released his / her hand from the game ball launching handle based on the detection result of the detection means and the determination result of the holding ball presence / absence determining means, and there is no holding ball. The informing means is driven when two conditions of being in a state are satisfied.
In the gaming machines of the means 13 to the means 17, since an effect is made to make it difficult for the player to recognize even in a gaming state to which an advantageous value after the execution of the second special game is given, the player does not recognize it as it is. There is a possibility of ending the game (leaving away from the gaming machine or leaving the game hall). Therefore, in the special game state non-notification mode, according to the detection result of the detection means and the determination result of the holding ball presence / absence determination means, the player has released his hand from the game ball launching handle and there is no holding ball. By driving the notifying means when the two conditions are established, it is possible to prevent the player's disadvantage.

Means 19: In the gaming machine of means 13 to means 17, in the gaming state to which an advantageous value after the execution of the second special game in the special gaming state non-notification mode is given, the variation of the symbols on the first display means is more than the specified number of times. When it becomes, it is characterized by notifying that it is the gaming state to which a value advantageous to the player was given.
As in the above configuration, when the variation of the symbol on the first display means exceeds the specified number of times, the player is informed that the gaming state is given an advantageous value such as a probability variation state or a time shortening state. In this case, the same effect as the means 10 is exhibited.
Means 20: In the gaming machines of means 13 to 17, a second display means is provided in the game board, and this second display means is not only in the special gaming state notification mode but also in the special gaming state non-notification mode. Even so, it is characterized in that it is configured to notify that it is in a special gaming state.
Generally, the second display means is not watched by the gaming machine like the first display means. This is because the second display means is usually one in which lamps are blinking or lamps of different types are lit alternately. Therefore, even when the special gaming state is not notified, the player is less likely to be aware of the special gaming state. Further, since the manager (such as an employee of the hall) in the game hall can confirm that the game is in the special game state from the second display means, convenience is improved.

[First embodiment]
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Here, pachinko machines (hereinafter simply referred to as “pachinko machines”) are given as gaming machines. However, the present invention is not limited to a winning device for pachinko machines, and generally uses gaming machines on a gaming board using a sphere. The prize-winning apparatus can be targeted. It should be noted that the embodiment can be appropriately changed in design without departing from the gist of the present invention.

(Configuration of front side of pachinko machine)
FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko machine 10, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the pachinko machine 10.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 10 includes an outer frame 11 that forms an outer shell of the pachinko machine 10, and an inner frame 12 that is supported on one side of the outer frame 11 so as to be openable and closable. . Below, the structure of the outer frame 11 and the inner frame 12 is demonstrated separately.

  The outer frame 11 is formed in a rectangular shape as a whole by a wooden plate material, and each plate material is assembled by a detachable fastener such as a small screw. The outer frame 11 may be made of a light metal such as resin or aluminum. This is because such a configuration can reduce the weight of the pachinko machine.

  On the other hand, the opening / closing axis of the inner frame 12 is set so as to extend vertically on the opposite side (left side of the pachinko machine 10 in FIG. 1) from the position where the handle (game ball launching handle 18 described later) is installed as viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 10. The inner frame 12 can be sufficiently opened to the front side with the opening / closing axis as the axis. If the opening / closing axis of the inner frame 12 is in the vertical direction on the handle installation location side (the right side of the pachinko machine 10 in FIG. 1), the game ball launching handle is opened when the inner frame 12 is opened. This is because the 18 heads and the like interfere with adjacent pachinko machines and card units (ball lending units), and the inner frame 12 cannot be fully opened. The inner frame 12 is made of a synthetic resin, specifically, ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) resin. By doing so, the advantages of high viscosity and high impact resistance and low cost production are exhibited.

  The inner frame 12 is roughly divided into a lower pan unit 13 attached to the lowermost portion thereof, and a vertical opening / closing axis on the left side of the inner frame 12 in the range above the lower pan unit 13 as an axis. The front frame set 14 is attached so as to be openable and closable, a resin base (not shown), and a game board 30 (described later) attached to the rear side of the resin base. Each of these configurations will be described in detail below.

  The lower plate unit 13 is fixed to the inner frame 12 with a fastener such as a screw. On the front side of the lower tray unit 13, a lower tray 15, a ball release lever 17, a game ball launching handle 18, an ashtray 22, and a sound output port 24 are provided. The lower tray 15 serving as a ball receiving tray is provided at substantially the center of the lower tray unit 13 and plays a role of stopping a game ball discharged from the discharge port 16 when the upper tray described later becomes full. is there. The ball removal lever 17 is for removing a game ball in the lower tray 15, and by moving the ball removal lever 17 to the left in FIG. 1, a predetermined location on the bottom surface of the lower tray 15 is opened. The game ball stopped in the lower plate 15 can be discharged to the player's ball storage box (dollar box) through the opening on the bottom surface of the lower plate 15. The game ball launching handle 18 is disposed so as to protrude to the front side on the right side of the lower plate 15. In accordance with the operation of the game ball launching handle 18 by the player, the game ball is driven toward a game board 30 described later by a game ball launching device having a launch solenoid. The sound output port 24 is an output port for outputting sound from a speaker provided in the lower plate unit 13 or on the back surface. The ashtray 22 is provided on the left side of the lower plate 15. The right side of the ashtray 22 is supported by the lower plate 15 so as to rotate about the axis in the left-right direction (horizontal direction) as an axis (for example, forwardly toward the front side).

  Note that most of the lower dish unit 13 is molded of ABS resin in the same manner as the inner frame 12. By doing so, it is highly viscous and resistant to impact, and can be manufactured at low cost. In particular, the surface layer forming the lower plate 15 and the front panel portion behind the lower plate are formed of flame-retardant ABS resin. For this reason, this part is hard to burn.

  On the other hand, an upper plate 19 as a receiving tray for game balls is provided integrally with the front frame set 14 at a lower portion of the front frame set 14 (above the lower plate 15 described above). The upper plate 19 is a ball tray for temporarily storing the game balls and guiding them to the game ball launching device 38 while aligning them in a row. In the conventional pachinko machine, a front decorative frame that can be opened and closed with respect to the inner frame is provided below the front frame set, and the upper decorative frame is provided on the front decorative frame. The upper plate 19 is provided directly to the front frame set 14 and is omitted. Similar to the lower plate 15, the upper plate 19 has a structure in which the surface layer is formed of flame-retardant ABS resin. In addition, an effect button 79 for the player to perform an operation such as changing the background of the decorative symbol display device 42 is provided at the lower left of the upper plate 19.

  In addition, the front frame set 14 is provided with light emitting means such as various lamps in the periphery (for example, corner portion). These light emitting means play a role of enhancing the effect of the game during the game by changing and controlling the light emission mode such as lighting and blinking according to the change of the game state in the big hit game state or the like. For example, the annular illumination part 102 with a built-in light emitting means such as an LED is provided symmetrically on the periphery of the window part 101 and is in a jackpot gaming state by lighting or flashing in a normal jackpot gaming state. It is the structure which alert | reports this.

  In addition, a ball lending operation unit 120 is disposed below the window unit 101, and the ball lending operation unit 120 is provided with a ball lending button 121, a return button 122, and a frequency display unit 123. When the ball lending operation unit 120 is operated with a bill or a card inserted in a card unit (ball lending unit) (not shown) arranged on the side of the pachinko machine 10, a game ball is lent according to the operation. Done. The ball lending button 121 is operated to obtain a lending ball based on information recorded on a card or the like (recording medium), and the lending ball is supplied to the upper plate 19 as long as there is a remaining amount on the card or the like. Is done. The return button 122 is operated when requesting the return of a card or the like inserted into the card unit. The frequency display unit 123 displays remaining amount information such as a card. Note that the ball lending operation unit 120 is not required for a pachinko machine in which a game ball is directly rented from the ball lending device unit to the upper plate without using a card unit, that is, a so-called cash machine. Therefore, a decorative seal or the like is attached to the installation portion of the ball rental operation unit 120. Thereby, the common use of the lending operation unit of the pachinko machine using the card unit and the cash machine can be achieved.

Next, the configuration of the game board 30 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a front view showing the configuration of the game board 30, and FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically showing the vicinity of the main prize winning opening 400. The game board 30 includes a general winning port 31, a first starting port 32 composed of an upper starting port 32a and a lower starting port 32b (configured by an operation chucker 32b), a second starting port 412 (configured by a through gate), a special A symbol display device 38, a normal symbol display device 41, a decorative symbol display device 42, and the like are provided. The general winning port 31, the first start port 32, the second start port 412, the variable display device unit 35, etc. are disposed in the respective through holes formed by router processing in the game board 30, respectively. It is attached from the front side of the game board 30 with wood screws or the like. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, a pair of opening and closing blades 60 (opening and closing blades 430 in FIG. 3) are provided at the entrance of the lower start port 32b, and an open position for guiding the game ball and the lower start port 32b It is possible to adopt a closed position where the game ball is difficult to enter. The opening / closing blade 60 is driven by a solenoid SL1 (see FIG. 10) disposed on the back side of the game board 30. A main prize winning port 400 is disposed below the lower start port 32b. The main prize winning opening 400 is normally closed with the shutter 62 closed, and is opened when a special gaming state is reached. The shutter 62 is driven by a solenoid SL2 (see FIG. 10) disposed on the back side of the game board 30.
A game ball enters the above-described general winning opening 31, main grand winning opening 400 and first start opening 32, and the detected balls are detected by detection switches (a winning opening switch, a count switch, an operation opening switch, etc.) described later. Based on the output of the detection switch, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the upper plate 19 (or the lower plate 15). In addition, the game board 30 is provided with an out port 36, and game balls that have not entered the various winning devices etc. are guided through the out port 36 to a ball discharge path (not shown). It has become. A number of nails are implanted in the game board 30 in order to appropriately disperse and adjust the falling direction of the game balls, and various members (instruments) are arranged.

  The special symbol display device 38 variably displays a special symbol as identification information with a winning at the first start port 32 as a trigger, and the decorative symbol display device 42 varies a decorative symbol corresponding to the special symbol variation display. The normal symbol display device 41 variably displays the normal symbol with the passage of the second start port 412 as a trigger.

  The special symbol display device 38 is composed of two-color LEDs 38a and 38b, and the display content is controlled by a main control device 261 described later. Each of the LEDs 38a and 38b can be variably displayed in red and blue, for example.

  The decorative design display device 42 is configured as a liquid crystal display device, and display contents are controlled by a display control device to be described later. On the decorative symbol display device 42, for example, symbols as identification information are displayed at three locations, upper, middle, and lower. These symbols are scrolled and variably displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42. In the present embodiment, the decorative symbol display device 42 (liquid crystal display device) includes a large liquid crystal display of, for example, 10 inches.

  The normal symbol display device 41 includes lamps 41a and 41b for normal symbols. In this embodiment, the normal symbol lamp 41a is provided, for example, on the left side of the display surface of the decorative symbol display device 42, and its external shape is a “◯” shape, while the normal symbol lamp 41b. Is provided adjacent to the lower side of the lamp 41a, and its external shape is an “x” shape. In the normal symbol display device 41, for example, the display symbol (ordinary symbol) by the lamps 41a and 41b changes every time the game ball passes through the second starting port 412, and specifically, the lamps 41a and 41b illuminate alternately. The lower start port 32b of the first start port 32 is configured to be activated (opened) for a predetermined time when stopped by the lamp 41a. The number of times that the game ball has passed through the second start port 412 is held up to a maximum of 4 times, and the number of times of holding is displayed on the hold lamp 801a. The lamps 41a and 41b may be a plurality of display units that are variably displayed on a part of the decorative symbol display device 42.

  The main grand prize winning opening 400 is normally in a closed state in which a game ball cannot be won or difficult to win, and is repeatedly operated between an open state in which a game ball is easy to win and a normal closed state in a big win. It has become. More specifically, the special game state is provided on the condition that the special symbol display device 38 is in a specific display mode (the fixed symbol after the decoration symbol display device 42 is stopped is a combination of specific symbols set in advance). Occurs. Then, the main grand prize winning opening 400 is in a predetermined open state, and the game ball is configured to be in a state where it is easy to win a prize (a big hit state). Specifically, the main prize winning opening 400 is repeatedly opened a predetermined number of times with a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds: corresponding to the first predetermined time) or a predetermined number (for example, 9) of winnings as one round. The predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) is a time during which a plurality of balls can be predicted under a winning rate determined based on the maximum number of game balls fired per unit time and the nail adjustment state on the game board. Is set as. The number of times that the game ball has passed through the first start port 32 is held up to a maximum of 4 times, and the number of times of holding is displayed on the hold lamp 800a. Note that the hold lamp 800a may be configured to be variably displayed on a part of the decorative symbol display device 42.

  Further, the game board 30 is provided with a rail unit 50 for guiding the game ball launched from the game ball launching device to the upper part of the game board 30, and is fired as the game ball launching handle 18 is rotated. The game balls are guided to a predetermined game area through the rail unit 50. The rail unit 50 is formed of a ring-shaped resin molded product (for example, a molded product added with fluororesin), and has an inner rail 51 and an outer rail 52 that are integrally formed in an inner and outer double. . In addition, since the rail unit 50 is shape | molded by adding a fluororesin, it can reduce the frictional resistance of a game ball. The inner rail 51 is formed in a substantially annular shape except for about ¼ of the upper portion, and an outer rail 52 is formed so that a part (mainly the left side) faces the inner rail 51. In such a case, a guide rail is constituted by the inner rail 51 and the outer rail 52, and a spherical guide passage is formed by a portion (the left portion facing) where the rails 51 and 52 are parallel to each other at a predetermined interval. The ball guide passage is formed in a groove shape having a contact surface with the game board 30, that is, a groove shape in which the front side is opened.

  A return ball preventing member 53 is attached to the tip portion of the inner rail 51 (upper left portion in FIG. 3). This prevents a situation in which the game ball once guided from the ball guide path between the inner rail 51 and the outer rail 52 to the upper part of the game board 30 returns to the ball guide path again. Yes. Further, a return rubber 54 is attached to the outer rail 52 at a position corresponding to the maximum flight portion of the game ball (upper right portion in FIG. 3: a portion corresponding to the tip portion of the outer rail 52). Therefore, the game ball fired at a predetermined momentum or more hits the return rubber 54 and is bounced back.

  An arc-shaped flange 56 projecting outward is formed on the outer peripheral portion of the rail unit 50. The flange 56 constitutes a mounting surface for the game board 30. When the rail unit 50 is attached to the game board 30, the flange 56 is brought into contact with the game board 30, and in this state, screws or the like are inserted into a plurality of through holes formed in the flange 56. The rail unit 50 is fastened to 30.

  A convex portion 57 is formed at the entrance of the ball guide passage between the inner rail 51 and the outer rail 52 so as to close a part of the ball guide passage. The convex portion 57 is provided in a substantially vertical direction from the inner rail 51 to the lower end portion of the rail unit 50, and serves to guide a foul ball that does not reach the game area and flows backward in the ball guide passage to a foul ball passage (not shown). Make.

  The game area is partitioned and formed in a substantially circular shape by the inner peripheral portion (inner and outer rail) of the rail unit 50. In particular, in this embodiment, a game castle partitioned on the board surface of the game board 30 is conventionally used. It is much larger than that.

(Configuration of characteristic portions of the present invention)
The game board surface of the game board 30 is left and right non-objects (main role 451, secondary role 452 (second variable) so that the left side is the main game ball passage 410 and the right side is the sub game ball passage 411. Corresponding to a winning device and an effect movable part: details will be described later), and the arrangement of the guide nails 450 and the like. In addition, a secondary big prize opening 401 different from the main big prize opening 400 is provided in the secondary game ball passage 411, and a second start opening 412 that is a through gate is provided in the main game ball passage 410. -ing

In the main game ball passage 410, the guide nails 450 are extended to the end of the main player 451, and the main game ball passage 410 has more guide nails 450 than the sub game ball passage 411.
Specifically, the guide nails 450 are arranged in a variable winning device including a pair of opening and closing blades 430 from a windmill 413 provided at a position near the left at a substantially intermediate position in the main game ball passage 410. The seven guide nails 450 are continuously arranged toward the life nail 414 of the 32 starting openings 32a, and then six are continuously arranged at intervals allowing the game balls to pass, and then the game balls pass. The four nails are continuously arranged at an interval allowing the passage of game balls, and the two are continuously arranged at an interval allowing the passage of game balls again, and further spaced apart to allow the passage of game balls, and the life nail One piece is also arranged between 414 and an interval that allows a game ball to pass therethrough. The row of the series of guide nails 450 is herein referred to as an upper row guide nail group 450A.

The guide nails 450 are arranged so as to form a game ball passage 415 below the series of guide nails 450 described above, and guide the three general winning holes 31 arranged obliquely below at predetermined intervals. ing.
Specifically, three guide nails are arranged below the windmill 413 across the game ball passage 415, and at intervals allowing the passage of the game ball to the general winning port 31 on the upper stage. 6 are continuously arranged, and thereafter, an interval allowing the winning to the middle general winning opening 31 is separated, and then 7 are continuously arranged, and again, an interval allowing the winning to the lower general winning opening 31 is separated, Further, three are continuously arranged, and further, an interval allowing the winning to the main prize winning opening 400 is separated, and similarly, an interval allowing three to be continuously arranged and allowing the winning to the main winning prize opening 400 again. The arrangement is separated from the variable winning device 32. The row of the series of guide nails 450 is herein referred to as a lower row guide nail group 450B. Then, two guide nails 450 are arranged below the lowermost three of the lower row guide nail group 450B with a game ball passage 417 therebetween, and an interval that allows a game ball to pass therethrough is obliquely below. The guide nails 450 are arranged one by one and play a role of guiding the main grand prize 400.

On the other hand, in the auxiliary game ball passage 411, as corresponding to the above-mentioned upper row guide nail group 450A, from the life nail 414 of the starting port 32a of the variable winning device 32, the upper row guide nail is directed diagonally upward to the right. As the group 450C, only one, two, four, and two are arranged in order at predetermined intervals through which game balls pass. Similarly, the lower row guide nail group 450D has only three, five, and five arranged from the lower side to the upper side and the game ball passage 416 is formed. Since the guide nails 450 are arranged as described above, the game balls driven into the auxiliary game ball passage 411 are mainly guided through the passage 420 to the outlet.
In addition, an opening portion of the second variable winning device is provided on an extension line of the lower row guide nail group 450D.

On the other hand, a protrusion 453 that prevents the game ball from being carried to the sub game ball passage side 411 is provided at the upper end of the main character 451.
In this embodiment, the protrusion 453 is coupled to the auxiliary game ball passage side 411 in combination with a guide nail group 450E arranged so as to block the flying ball course of the game ball at the upper end of the game board 30 toward the sub game ball passage side 411. The game ball is prevented from being carried in In addition, the protrusion 453 may be realized by disposing a design of another subsidiary role.
In FIG. 3, reference numeral 412 denotes a through gate.

The secondary accessory 452 including the second variable winning device is the sub-high winning port 401 and the 嘴 452A for opening / closing the sub-high winning port 401 (the second variable winning device at the large winning port 401 and the 嘴 452A). And other movable parts (neck 452B, blade 452C: equivalent to the production movable part), and a three-dimensional design in the image of a bird.
FIG. 5 is a front view of the secondary role 452, and FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the secondary role 452. The secondary role 452 is composed of a character portion that is an image of a bird composed of a collar 452A, a neck 452B, a blade 452C, and a trunk 452D, and a decoration member 452E for decorating the overall secondary role.嘴 452A has a role of opening / closing operation of the sub-large winning opening 401, and has a structure that can be opened and closed. In addition, the neck 452B and the blade 452C are also movable under a predetermined condition. However, the body 452D has a structure that is not particularly movable for decoration. The collar 452A is driven by a solenoid SL3, which is controlled by the main controller 261 (see FIG. 10). The neck 452B is driven by a solenoid SL4, the blade 452C is driven by a solenoid SL5, and these solenoids SL4 and SL5 are controlled by a sub-control device 262 (see FIG. 10). In this way, the sub-control device 262 controls the solenoids SL4 and SL5 that drive the neck 452B and the blades 452C that do not serve as winning holes, thereby reducing the processing load on the main control device 261.

Next, the details of the structure of the subsidiary character 452 will be described with reference to FIGS.
First, the structure related to the flange 452A will be described. The solenoid SL3 that drives the flange 452A includes a connecting member SL3-1 that swings in the A direction or the B direction in accordance with the extension / retraction of the drive shaft 899 (see FIG. 8) of the solenoid SL3. As shown in FIG. 8, a tongue piece 900 extending downward is fixed to the tip of the drive shaft 899. The tongue piece 900 has a structure that moves in the left-right direction (N1 direction and N2 direction in FIG. 8A) in accordance with the excitation and demagnetization states of the solenoid SL3. There is a pressed portion 901 provided in SL3-1. The connecting member SL3-1 has a structure that rotates about a shaft 902, and cylindrical protruding portions 903 are integrally formed on both side surfaces of the connecting member SL3-1. A guide groove SL3-2 is formed on the front surface side of the protruding portion 903.

  A shaft hole 452A-2 is formed on the back side of the collar 452A. A support shaft (not shown) of the decoration member 452E is fitted into the shaft hole 452A-2, and the collar 452A is pivoted on the decoration member 452E. It is supported. Further, an operation shaft 452A-1 is provided on the back side of the flange 452A, and this operation shaft 452A-1 is slidably fitted in the guide groove SL3-2.

  With the above configuration, when the solenoid SL3 is excited, the drive shaft 899 is retracted, and accordingly, the tongue piece 900 moves in the N1 direction from the state of FIG. 8A. Then, the pressed portion 901 of the connecting member SL3-1 is pressed by the tongue piece 900, and the connecting member SL3-1 rotates about the shaft 902 in the A direction (see FIG. 8A), and FIG. ) State. As described above, when the connecting member SL3-1 is rotated and the guide groove SL3-2 is moved upward, the operation shaft 452A-1 is rotated in the C direction (see FIG. 7). The flange 452A rotates around the support shaft and is in an open state.

  Conversely, when the solenoid SL3 is demagnetized, the drive shaft 899 expands, and the tongue piece 900 moves in the N2 direction from the state shown in FIG. 8B. Then, the pressed state of the pressed portion 901 by the tongue piece 900 is released, and the connecting member SL3-1 rotates about the shaft 902 in the B direction (see FIG. 8A), and the state shown in FIG. It becomes. As described above, when the connecting member SL3-1 is rotated and the guide groove SL3-2 is moved downward, the operation shaft 452A-1 is rotated in the D direction (see FIG. 7). , 嘴 452A is rotated around the above-mentioned support shaft and is in a closed state.

  Next, a structure related to the blade 452C will be described. A shaft hole 452C-2 is formed on the back side of the blade 452C, and a support shaft (not shown) of the decoration member 452E is fitted into the shaft hole 452C-2, and the blade 452C is pivoted on the decoration member 452E. It is supported. On the other hand, the solenoid SL5 that drives the blade 452C includes a transmission member SL5-1 that moves up and down in the E direction and the F direction in accordance with the expansion and contraction of the drive shaft (not shown) of the solenoid SL5. The tip of the transmission member SL5-1 is loosely fitted in a guide hole 452C-1 provided on the back side of the blade 452C.

  With the above structure, when the solenoid SL5 is excited, the transmission member SL5-1 is driven in the E direction, thereby rotating the blade 452C in the G direction around the support shaft. On the contrary, when the solenoid SL5 is demagnetized, the transmission member SL5-1 is driven in the F direction, and thereby the blade 452C is rotated in the H direction around the support shaft.

  Next, a structure related to the neck 452B will be described. First, the solenoid SL4 that drives the neck 452B includes a movable member 452I that moves in the I direction or the J direction in accordance with the expansion / contraction of the drive shaft (not shown) of the solenoid SL4. A locking piece 452I-1 is formed on the movable member 452I. Further, the neck 452B is composed of a flat plate 452B-1 formed in the image of the bird's neck portion, and a rotating shaft 452B-2 projects from the back surface of the flat plate 452B-1. The rotation shaft 452B-2 is inserted into a hole 452G-2 formed at one end of the transmission plate 452G, and is fixed by a fixture 452H. On the other hand, a protrusion 452G-1 is formed on the other end of the transmission plate 452G. The protrusion 452G-1 is locked to the locking piece 452I-1.

  With the above structure, the transmission member 452I moves in the I direction or the J direction according to the excitation / demagnetization state of the solenoid SL4, and the transmission plate 452G moves in conjunction therewith, and the flat plate 452B-1 rotates in the K direction or the L direction. To do.

  The decorative member 452D, which is a member other than the movable part, is fixed to the decorative member 452E so as to cover the cage 452A and the blades 452C, and serves to represent the bird's trunk, and the guide member 452F is the cage member 452F. It is a member for guiding the game ball that has entered the ball 452A to a predetermined place, and is disposed on the back surface of the decorative member 452E.

(Operation of the subsidiary character 452)
The overall movement of the subsidiary character 452 will be described with reference to FIG. Details of the electrical control will be described later. FIG. 9 is a timing chart showing commands received by the sub-control device and operations of the movable parts.

  As described above, the movable parts of the subsidiary item 452 are the collar 452A, the neck 452B, and the blade 452C. Here, the timing at which the heel 452A moves is only when a sudden probability change jackpot occurs. On the other hand, the neck 452B and the blade 452C operate so as to operate when the decorative symbol is variably displayed, when all the decorative symbols are stopped, when a normal probability variation jackpot occurs, and when a sudden probability variation jackpot occurs. It has become.

  Specifically, the kite 452A opens the game for a very short time (for example, 0.5 seconds) at the same time as the sudden probability change jackpot occurs, and allows the winning of the game ball. 1 second) is closed and opened again for a very short time (for example, 0.5 seconds: corresponding to the second predetermined time), and the opening / closing operation of the secondary big prize opening for a series of sudden probability variation jackpots is completed. The extremely short time (for example, 0.5 seconds: equivalent to the second predetermined time) is a winning rate determined based on the maximum number of game balls fired per unit time and the nail adjustment state on the game board. Is set as the minimum time during which at least one game ball can enter.

  On the other hand, as a timing for operating the neck 452B and the blade 452C during the decorative symbol variation display period, the decorative symbol is displayed in a variable manner. For example, each stage of the decorative symbol is stopped (the symbol rows Z1, Z2, and Z3 in FIG. 11). The neck 452B is moved to the left and right, or the blade 452C is opened and closed substantially at the same time as each of the movements is stopped or only Z3 is stopped). Note that the operation patterns of the neck 452B and the blade 452C are respectively the variation patterns of the decorative symbol variation display (for example, the timing when the symbol row Z1 is stopped, the timing when the variation symbol is stopped in accordance with the reach notice effect, etc.). The neck 452B and the blades 452C are associated with each other in advance, and perform operations corresponding to various display effects of the decorative symbols. The association between the variation pattern of the variation display of the decorative symbol and the operation pattern of the neck 452B and the blade 452C will be described later.

(Operation of the subsidiary character 452)
In the gaming machine configured as described above, as a display mode displayed by the decorative symbol display device 42 at the time of jackpot with probability variation, a jackpot notification mode (of the decorative symbol display device 42 of the decorative symbol display device 42) for notifying the player that the jackpot state with probability variation is in effect. The same numbers (for example, 7, 7, and 7 on the active line) and the jackpot non-notification mode in which the player is not notified of the jackpot state with probability variation (ie, the special game state non-notification) Aspect: The same number, for example, 7, 4, 2, etc., in which the predetermined symbols are not arranged on the effective line of the decorative symbol display device 42 is provided. Thus, since the jackpot non-notification mode is provided, it is possible to exhibit unexpectedness to the player and to suppress the game itself from becoming monotonous. Furthermore, even if the game ball is in a state where it is difficult to win the extra big prize opening in the jackpot in the jackpot non-notification mode, the player is not recognized that it is difficult to win because the non-notification mode is exhibited. Since the game proceeds as it is, it is possible to reduce the feeling of loss given to the player. Because of the above effects, the superiority over other models is sufficiently exhibited, so that the operating rate of the gaming machine in the game hall is dramatically improved.

  On the other hand, in a normal game, the neck 452B and the blade 452C are operated substantially synchronously with the variation pattern in the variation display of the decorative symbol, that is, the neck 452B and the blade 452C are frequently operated even when the sudden probability variation is not in the big hit state. Thus, the player recognizes the bag 452A, a neck 452B, and a large role (ie, a secondary role 452) having moving parts such as a blade 452C. By operating the neck 452B and the blades 452C together with the heel 452A for the second predetermined time, the player can recognize only as one pattern of the performance operation of the role in the normal game, and the 嘴 452A Suddenly realizes that he plays the role of a winning movable part that opens and closes the vice grand prize winning opening It is possible to demonstrate the effect of Nikuku. As a result, suddenly it becomes difficult to realize the opening and closing of the extra big prize opening at the probable jackpot.

  Furthermore, as described above, the structure of the game board surface is asymmetrical, and on the one side, here the left side when viewed from the front, three general winning holes 31 are provided, and a number of guide nails for guiding the game balls to them. 450, the main game path 410 in which a guide nail is disposed, and the other side, that is, the right side secondary game ball path side 411 is a game machine having no general winning opening, the flying ball of the game ball No (prohibited by the protrusions 453) or difficult to fly, in other words, by providing a secondary big winning opening 401 on the side of the secondary game ball passage 411 that is not always attracting attention during the game. Even if the big winning opening 401 shows a change to be released in order to allow the winning of the game ball, it is less likely to be perceived by the player.

(Electric configuration of pachinko machine and various control processes)
Next, the electrical configuration of the pachinko machine 10 will be described with reference to FIG. The pachinko machine 10 includes a power supply device 313, a power supply monitoring device 540, a main control device 261, a sub control device 262, a payout control device 311, a display control device 45, and the like. In the following, these devices will be described in detail individually. The power supply monitoring device 540 and the main control device 261 are sealed by a sealing unit.

  Next, the configuration of the main controller 261 will be described. The main controller 261 is equipped with an MPU 501 as a one-chip microcomputer that is an arithmetic unit. The MPU 501 includes a ROM 502 that stores various control programs executed by the MPU 501 and fixed value data, and a memory that temporarily stores various data when the control program stored in the ROM 502 is executed. A certain RAM 503 and other various circuits such as an interrupt circuit, a timer circuit, and a data transmission / reception circuit are incorporated.

  The RAM 503 is configured to retain (backup) data by being supplied with a backup voltage from the power supply device 313 even after the power of the pachinko machine 10 is cut off. The RAM 503 temporarily stores various data and the like. There is an area for.

  Note that the power failure signal SG1 from the power failure monitoring circuit 542 is input to the NMI terminal (non-maskable interrupt terminal) of the MPU 501 when the power is shut down due to the occurrence of a power failure or the like, and the power failure signal SG1 is the MPU 501. Is input immediately, the NMI interrupt process (see FIG. 19) as a power failure process is immediately executed.

  An input / output port 505 is connected to the MPU 501 of the main controller 261 via a bus line 504 including an address bus and a data bus. The input / output port 505 includes a RAM erasing switch circuit 543, a payout control device 311, a launch control device 312, a sub-control device 262, a special symbol display device 38, a normal symbol display device 41, and a special symbol hold display. The device 800, the normal symbol hold display device 801, and other switches not shown are connected. The special symbol display device 38 is composed of the special symbol display lamps 38a and 38b as described above, and the normal symbol display device 41 is composed of the normal symbol display lamps 41a and 41b as described above. As described above, the hold display device 800 includes the hold lamp 800a that displays the number of hold balls related to the special symbol, and the normal symbol hold display device 801 holds the number of hold balls related to the normal symbol as described above. The lamp 801a is configured.

  The payout control device 311 controls payout of prize balls and rental balls by a payout motor 358a. The MPU 511 that is an arithmetic unit includes a ROM 512 that stores a control program executed by the MPU 511, fixed value data, and the like, and a RAM 513 that is used as a work memory or the like.

  The RAM 513 of the payout control device 311 is configured to hold (backup) data by supplying a backup voltage from the power supply device 313 even after the power of the pachinko machine 10 is shut off, like the RAM 503 of the main control device 261. The RAM 513 has an area for temporarily storing various data.

  As with the MPU 501 of the main controller 261, the power failure signal SG1 is also input to the NMI terminal of the MPU 511 from the power failure monitoring circuit 542 when the power is interrupted due to the occurrence of a power failure. When input to the MPU 511, an NMI interrupt process as a power failure process is immediately executed.

  An input / output port 515 is connected to the MPU 511 of the payout control device 311 via a bus line 514 constituted by an address bus and a data bus. A main controller 261 and a payout motor 358a are connected to the input / output port 515, respectively.

  The launch control device 312 permits or prohibits the launch of the game ball by the launch solenoid, and the launch solenoid is permitted to drive when a predetermined condition is met. Specifically, a sensor signal detects that a connection signal indicating that the payout control device 311 is connected to the card unit is being output, and that the player is touching the game ball launching handle 18. The firing control device 312 outputs a firing permission signal to the main control device 261 on the condition that the firing stop switch for stopping the firing is not operated. The main controller 261 that has input the firing permission signal outputs a firing solenoid control signal to the firing controller 312. As a result, the launch control device 312 drives the launch solenoid in response to the launch solenoid control signal, and as a result, the game ball is launched with a strength corresponding to the operation amount of the game ball launch handle.

  The sub-control device 262 controls the ringing control of the effect speaker 810 and the like according to the change display of the decorative symbol based on the command from the main control device 261, the lighting (flashing) control of the effect lamp 811, and the main control device 261. The function to edit the command to the display control device 45 based on the command from and send it to the display control device 45 is achieved. The MPU 550 of the sub-control device 262 includes a ROM 551 that stores a control program executed by the MPU 550, fixed value data, and the like, and a RAM 552 that is used as a work memory or the like. An input / output port 554 is connected to the MPU 550 via a bus line 553 composed of an address bus and a data bus. The input / output port 554 is connected to a speaker, a lamp, an effect button 79 for executing a predetermined display effect during variable display on the decorative symbol display device 42, and a main control device 261. Examples of the effect button 79 include a display effect button such as a step-up notice for notifying that the possibility of a big hit state is high depending on the manner in which predetermined characters appear sequentially. When an effect button 79 is pressed, an effect designation command for executing a predetermined effect is generated and transmitted to the decorative symbol display device 42.

  The display control device 45 controls the variation display of the decorative symbols on the decorative symbol display device 42. The display control device 45 includes an MPU 521 having a RAM 523 used as a work RAM, a ROM (program ROM) 522, a video RAM 524, a character ROM 525, an image controller 526, an input port 527, and an output port 529. I have.

  The MPU 521 receives a symbol display command (stop symbol command, variation pattern command, confirmation command, etc.) transmitted from the sub-control device 262 via the input port 527, analyzes the received command, or based on the received command. A predetermined arithmetic process is performed to control the image controller 526 (specifically, generation of an internal command for the image controller 526). The program ROM 522 is a memory for storing various control programs executed by the MPU 521 and fixed values, and also stores and holds JPEG format image data for background images. The RAM 523 is a memory for temporarily storing work data, flags, and the like used when the MPU 521 executes various programs.

  The image controller 526 is configured by a VDP (Video Display Processor). The VDP is a kind of drawing circuit that directly operates an LCD driver (liquid crystal driving circuit) incorporated in the decorative design device 42. Since it is an IC chip, it is also called a “drawing chip”, and its entity is a drawing process. It can be said to be a microcomputer chip with dedicated software. The image controller 526 adjusts the timing of each of the MPU 521, the video RAM 524, etc. to intervene in reading and writing data, and reads the display data stored in the video RAM 524 from the character ROM 525 at a predetermined timing, and sets the output port 529. And output to the decorative symbol display device 42.

  The video RAM 524 is a memory for storing display data displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42, and the display content of the decorative symbol display device 42 is changed by rewriting the content of the video RAM 524. The character ROM 525 serves as an image data library for storing character data such as symbols displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42. The character ROM 525 holds bitmap image data of various display patterns, a color palette table to be referred to when determining the expression color of each dot of the bitmap image, and the like. In particular, a symbol code (symbol number) is assigned to each symbol image data in the bitmap format, and each symbol image can be managed only by the symbol code at the command level. Note that a plurality of character ROMs 525 may be provided, and image data and the like may be stored in each character ROM 525 in a shared manner. Further, it is possible to adopt a configuration in which the JPEG format image data for the background image stored in the program ROM 522 is stored in the character ROM 525.

  The power supply device 313 includes a power supply unit 541 for supplying power to each unit of the pachinko machine 10. The power supply unit 541 supplies necessary operating voltages to the main control device 261, the payout control device 311 and the like through the power supply path. As its outline, the power supply unit 541 takes in a voltage of AC 24 volts supplied from the outside, drives a switch, motor, etc., 12 volts, logic 5 volts, RAM backup A backup voltage or the like is generated, and the 12 volt voltage, the 5 volt voltage, and the backup voltage are supplied to the power supply monitoring device 540, the sub control device 262, the payout control device 311, the display control device 45, and the like. The main control device 261 is supplied with operating voltages (voltages of 12 volts and 5 volts) via the power supply monitoring device 540. In addition, an operating voltage (12 volts and 5 volts) is supplied to the launch controller 312 via the main controller 261.

The power failure monitoring device 540 includes a power failure monitoring circuit 542 that monitors power interruption due to a power failure or the like, and a reset circuit 544 that outputs a reset signal.
The power failure monitoring circuit 542 is a circuit for outputting a power failure signal SG1 to each NMI terminal of the MPU 501 of the main control device 261 and the MPU 511 of the payout control device 311 when the power is interrupted due to the occurrence of a power failure or the like. The power failure monitoring circuit 542 monitors the DC stable voltage of 24 volts, which is the maximum voltage output from the power supply unit 541, and determines that a power failure (power shutdown) occurs when this voltage is less than 22 volts. The power failure signal SG1 is output to the main controller 261 and the payout controller 311. By the output of the power failure signal SG1, the main controller 261 and the payout controller 311 recognize the occurrence of the power failure and execute the NMI interrupt process. Note that the power supply unit 541 outputs a voltage of 5 volts, which is a drive voltage of the control system, for a time sufficient to execute the NMI interrupt processing even after the DC stable voltage of 24 volts becomes less than 22 volts. Is maintained at a normal value. Therefore, the main controller 261 and the payout controller 311 can normally execute and complete the NMI interrupt process.

  The RAM erase switch circuit 543 is a circuit that outputs a RAM erase signal SG2 for clearing backup data to the main controller 261 and the payout controller 311 when the RAM erase switch is pressed. When the RAM erase signal SG2 is input when the pachinko machine 10 is turned on, the main control device 261 and the payout control device 311 clear the respective backup data.

  The reset circuit 544 is a circuit that outputs a reset signal in order to initialize the main control device 261, the payout control device 311, the sub control device 262, and the display control device 45. The reset signal from the reset circuit 544 is directly given to the main control device 261, but to the payout control device 311, the sub control device 262, and the display control device 45 via the power supply device 313. It has come to be given.

  Here, the display contents of the special symbol display device 38, the normal symbol display device 41, and the decorative symbol display device 42 will be described. In the pachinko machine 10 of the present embodiment, a special symbol displayed on the special symbol display device 38 as a symbol for showing the occurrence of the jackpot to the player, and a decorative symbol displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42. Two types are provided. The decorative symbol is a symbol that changes in synchronization with the special symbol. The decorative symbol starts changing at the same time (or almost at the same time) as the special symbol starts to change, and at the same time (or almost at the same time) as the special symbol changes. To stop the fluctuation. This decorative design is provided in order to provide a player with a variety of display effects so that the player is not bored.

  First, the display contents of the special symbol display device 38 will be described. The special symbol variation display is represented by a change in lighting pattern such as a color change (red / blue change) or blinking of the special symbol display lamps 38a and 38b. The variation display of the special symbol is started based on the winning of the game ball at the start port 32, and the variation display of the special symbol is simultaneously stopped after a certain time. After the stop, if the special symbols are aligned, that is, if the special symbol display lamps 38a, 38b are in the same color lighting state, it is a big hit, and if the special symbols are not aligned when the variable display is stopped, When the special symbol display lamps 38a and 38b are turned on in different colors, the special symbol display lamps 38a and 38b are disengaged and the variable display is performed again based on the winning at the start port 32. The number of times that the game ball has won the start opening 32 is held up to a maximum of four times, and the number of times the game ball is held is displayed on the hold lamp 800a of the special symbol hold display device 800.

  Next, display contents of the decorative symbol display device 42 will be described. On the display screen of the decorative symbol display device 42, for example, as shown in FIG. 11, three decorative symbol rows Z1 to Z3 are displayed in three display areas divided into an upper stage, a middle stage, and a lower stage. These decorative symbol rows Z1 to Z3 are scroll-displayed from right to left. The decorative symbol is composed of, for example, a main symbol composed of numbers “1” to “9” with characters and a sub symbol smaller than the main symbol, and a symbol string of the decorative symbol is formed by each of the main symbol and the sub symbol. The In each symbol row formed with decorative symbols, the main symbols are arranged in ascending or descending order of numbers, and sub-designs are arranged between the main symbols. When a winning at the start port 32, that is, when a start winning is generated, the decorative symbol is displayed in a variable manner, and the variable symbol is stopped after a lapse of a certain time according to the variable pattern. Nine decorative symbols are displayed as display results. In the variable display won in the big win lottery, the display control device 45 causes the three main symbols (number symbols with characters) to stop together on a horizontal or diagonal straight line among the nine decorative symbols. Control is performed and the player is shown the occurrence of a jackpot. On the other hand, in the variable display out of the big hit lottery, the display control device 45 controls the game so that three of the nine main symbols do not stop horizontally or diagonally. The occurrence of detachment is shown to the person.

  Next, display contents of the normal symbol display device 41 will be described. The variation display of the normal symbol is expressed by alternately lighting the normal symbol display lamp 41a (appearance is ◯ shape) and the normal symbol display lamp 41b (appearance is X shape). This variation display of the normal symbol is started on the condition that the game ball passes through the second starting port 34, and the variation display of the normal symbol stops after a certain time. And when it stops by the display lamp 41a, it is comprised so that the 1st starting port 32 may be in an operation state only for the predetermined time (open | released). The number of times that the game ball has passed through the second starting port 34 is held up to a maximum of 4 times, and the number of times of holding is displayed on the hold lamp 800a of the normal symbol hold display device 800.

  Next, the operation of the pachinko machine 10 configured as described above will be described. In the present embodiment, the MPU 501 in the main control device 261 uses various counter information during the game to perform jackpot lottery, setting of symbol display of the special symbol display device 38, and the like. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12, a counter group related to a special symbol and a counter group related to a normal symbol are provided. First, a counter group related to special symbols will be described. As a group of counters related to the special symbols, the jackpot random number counter C1 used for the jackpot lottery, the jackpot symbol counter C2 used for the selection of the jackpot symbols of the special symbol display device 38, and the special symbol display device 38 fluctuate. Stop pattern selection counter C3 used for selection of stop pattern (corresponding to reach lottery for reaching or completely declining in the variation of decorative symbols) and initial value setting for jackpot random number counter C1 An initial value random number counter CINI1 and variation type counters CS1 to CS3 for determining a type used for variation pattern selection are provided.

  Here, the variation pattern means each pattern (form) in a case where features having common features of variation display are divided.

  Each of the counters C1 to C3, CINI1, CS1 to CS3 is a loop counter that adds 1 to the previous value every time it is updated, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value. Each counter is updated at short time intervals, and the updated value is appropriately stored in a counter buffer set in a predetermined area of the RAM 503. The RAM 503 is provided with a holding ball storage area 700 including one execution area and four holding areas (holding first to fourth areas). In each of these areas, a game ball to the start port 32 is provided. Each value of the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot symbol counter C2 and the stop pattern selection counter C3 is stored in accordance with the winning timing.

  Next, the specific contents of each counter will be described in detail.

  The jackpot random number counter C1 is configured such that, for example, 1 is sequentially added within a range of 0 to 738, and after reaching the maximum value (that is, 738), it returns to 0. In particular, when the jackpot random number counter C1 makes one round, the value of the random number initial value counter CINI1 at that time is read as the initial value of the jackpot random number counter C1. The random number initial value counter CINI is configured as a loop counter that is updated in the same range as the jackpot random number counter C1 (value = 0 to 738), and is updated once per timer interrupt and within the remaining time of normal processing. Will be updated repeatedly. The jackpot random number counter C1 is updated periodically (once every timer interruption in this embodiment), and stored in the reserved ball storage area 700 of the RAM 503 at the timing when the game ball wins the start port 32. The number of random number values that are jackpots is set at low probability and high probability, and the number of random numbers that are jackpots at low probability is 2, and the value is “373, 727” There are 14 random numbers that are big hits at high probability, and the values are “59, 109, 163, 211, 263, 317, 367, 421, 479, 523, 577, 631, 683, 733”. is there. The high probability means that the special symbol combination is a predetermined symbol combination that is a predetermined probability variation symbol (in this embodiment, the specific symbol display lamps 38a and 38b are both lit in blue or red). This is a state in which the jackpot probability is increased and the subsequent jackpot probability is increased as a value added, that is, the so-called probability change, and the normal time (low probability) is not such a probability change state (in this embodiment, the special symbol display lamp 38a is When it lights up in blue).

  The jackpot symbol counter C2 determines the symbol when the special symbol change is stopped in the special symbol display device 38 in the case of a jackpot. For example, the symbol jack counter C2 is incremented by one within a range of 0 to 9, and the maximum value (that is, 9 ), And then it returns to 0. For example, when the value of the jackpot symbol counter C2 is “0”, “4”, “5”, “6”, the special symbol display lamp 38a stops in blue, and the combination of the stopped symbols in this case is It means non-specific symbol (normal jackpot symbol). Note that this jackpot symbol is a symbol that matches evenly in the decorative symbol.

  The value of the jackpot symbol counter C2 is “1”, “2”, “3”, “7”, which is a notification pattern probability variation (normal probability variation), and the stop symbols in this case are special symbol display lamps 38a and 38b. Both stop in blue. On the other hand, when the value of the jackpot symbol counter C2 is “8”, “9” is a non-notification mode probability variation (abrupt probability variation variation), the special symbol display lamps 38a and 38b both stop in red. . Note that in the case of the notice pattern probability variation, the decorative symbols are odd numbers that match, whereas in the case of the non-notification mode probability variation, the decoration symbols are not aligned in the same manner as the detachment.

  The jackpot symbol counter C2 is updated periodically (once every timer interruption in the present embodiment) and stored in the reserved ball storage area 700 of the RAM 503 at the timing when the game ball wins the start port 32.

  The stop pattern selection counter C3 is, for example, incremented by 1 in the range of 0 to 238, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 238). In the present embodiment, the special symbol variation display is configured to be expressed by the two display lamps 38a and 38b. Therefore, in the case of the special symbol, there is no concept of reach, and a stop pattern corresponding to reach is displayed. It is decided by the stop pattern selection counter C3. On the other hand, in the case of a decorative symbol, since three decorative symbols are stopped, there is a reach. Therefore, in the case of a decorative symbol, the reach lottery is determined by the stop pattern selection counter C3. That is, in the case of a decorative design, after the reach has occurred, the final stop symbol is shifted by one shift before and after the reach symbol, and the stop symbol is stopped before and after the reach symbol. It is decided to draw “reach other than front / rear off” that stops and “completely out” that does not generate reach. For example, the stop pattern selection counter C3 = 0 to 201 corresponds to complete detachment, the stop pattern selection counter C3 = 202 to 208 corresponds to anteroposterior detachment reach, and the stop pattern selection counter C3 = 209 to 238 reaches reach other than anteroposterior detachment. Applicable.

  Here, “reach” means that after the decorative symbol displayed on the display screen of the decorative symbol display device 42 starts variable display, the combination of symbols that stop first is the same symbol (in a decorative symbol having a plurality of effective lines). A combination of jackpot symbols that suggests to the player that the jackpot will be a big win depending on the display result of the symbols that are the same symbol on any active line) Is a display that makes a player expect the game, and is a type of entertainment production. Interesting effects are the display of a predetermined design represented by reach on the display screen of the decorative design display device 42 during the variable display, the output of a specific sound from a speaker, or the use of a vibration motor. This is an effect that causes the player to expect that the display result after the variation display will be a big hit with the variation display, such as vibrating the game ball launch handle 18.

  The stop pattern selection counter C3 is periodically updated (once every timer interruption in the present embodiment), and stored in the reserved ball storage area 700 of the RAM 503 at the timing when the game ball wins the start port 32. .

The variation type counter CS1 is, for example, incremented by 1 within a range of 0 to 198, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 198). The variation type counter CS2 is, for example, incremented by 1 within a range of 0 to 240, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 240). For example, the variation type counter CS3 is incremented by 1 within a range of 0 to 162, for example, and reaches a maximum value (that is, 162) and then returns to 0.
The variation type counter CS1 determines a rough symbol variation mode such as the reach type such as normal reach, super reach, premium reach, etc., and the variation type counter CS2 further refines the symbol such as normal reach A, normal reach B, etc. The variation mode is determined, and the variation type counter CS2 determines, for example, the addition / subtraction of the variation time in the case of a slip stop variation. Therefore, a variety of variation patterns can be easily realized by combining these variation type counters CS1 to CS3.

  The counters CS <b> 1 to CS <b> 3 are updated once every time a normal process to be described later is executed once, and are repeatedly updated even within the remaining time in the normal process. Then, the buffer values of the counters CS <b> 1 to CS <b> 3 are acquired when determining the variation pattern at the time of starting the variation of the special symbol by the special symbol display device 38 and the decorative symbol display device 42.

  Next, a counter group related to normal symbols will be described. The counter group related to the normal symbol includes a winning random number counter C4 used for winning lottery and an initial value random number counter CINI2 used for setting an initial value of the winning random number counter C4.

  The hit random number counter C4 is a loop counter that adds 1 to the previous value every time it is updated, and returns to 0 after reaching the maximum value. The counter is updated at short time intervals, and the updated value is appropriately stored in a counter buffer set in a predetermined area of the RAM 503. The RAM 503 is provided with a holding ball storage area 701 including one execution area and four holding areas (holding first to fourth areas). In each of these areas, the second starting port 34 is provided. The value of the hit random number counter C4 is stored in accordance with the passing of the game ball.

  Next, the specific contents of the winning random number counter C4 and the initial value random number CINI2 will be described in detail. The winning random number counter C4 is, for example, incremented one by one within a range of 0 to 250 and reaches 0 after reaching the maximum value (that is, 250). When the winning random number counter C4 makes one round, the value of the winning initial value random number counter CINI2 at that time is read as the initial value of the winning random number counter C4. The initial value random number counter CINI2 is configured as a loop counter that is updated in the same range as the winning random number counter C4 (value = 0 to 250), and is updated once per timer interrupt and within the remaining time of normal processing. Will be updated repeatedly. The hit random number counter C4 is updated periodically (once every timer interruption in this embodiment), and stored in the reserved ball storage area 701 of the RAM 503 at the timing when the game ball passes through the second start port 34. . The number of random number values hit by the hit random number counter C4 is 149, and the value is “5 to 153”.

  In addition, the magnitude | size and range of each counter are only examples, and can be changed arbitrarily. However, if importance is attached to irregularity, the big hit random number counter C1, stop pattern selection counter C3, hit random number counter C4, and variation type counters CS1 to CS3 are all different prime numbers and are not synchronized in any case. It is desirable to leave.

  Next, each control process executed by the MPU 501 in the main controller 261 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 13 to 19. The MPU 501 is roughly divided into a main process that is started when the power is turned on, and a timer interrupt process that is started periodically (in this embodiment, at a cycle of 2 milliseconds (hereinafter referred to as “ms”)). And an NMI interrupt process activated by the input of the power failure signal SG1 to the NMI terminal. For convenience of explanation, the timer interrupt process and the NMI interrupt process will be described first, and then the main process will be described.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the timer interrupt process. The timer interrupt process is executed by the MPU 501 of the main controller 261 every 2 ms, for example. In the timer interruption process, first, reading processes of various winning switches are executed (S601). That is, the state of various switches (except for the RAM erase switch) connected to the main controller 261 is read, and the state of the switch is determined and the detection information (winning detection information) is stored. Next, the random number initial value counter CINI1 and the hit initial value random number counter CINI2 are updated (S602). Specifically, the initial value random number counter CINI1 and the winning initial value random number counter CINI2 are each incremented by 1 and cleared to 0 when the counter values reach the maximum values (738 and 250 in the present embodiment, respectively). . The updated values of the counters CIN1 and CIN2 are stored in the corresponding buffer areas B4 and B9 of the RAM 503.

  Further, the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot symbol counter C2, the stop pattern selection counter C3 and the hit random number counter C4 are updated (S603). Specifically, the jackpot random number counter C1, the jackpot symbol counter C2, the stop pattern selection counter C3, and the hit random number counter C4 are each incremented by 1 and their counter values are maximum values (738, 9 in the present embodiment, respectively). , 238, 250) is cleared to 0 respectively. Then, the updated values of the counters C1 to C4 are stored in the corresponding buffer areas B1 to B4 of the RAM 503. Next, a start winning process associated with winning in the start port 32 is executed (S604). Thereafter, a firing solenoid control signal, a ball feed solenoid control signal, and the like are output to the firing control device 312 to execute a firing control process (S605).

  The start winning process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not the game ball has won the start opening 32 (start winning prize) based on the detection information of the operation opening switch (S701). When it is determined that the game ball has won the start opening 32 (S701: Yes), it is determined whether or not the number N of the operation reserved balls of the special symbol display device 42 is less than the upper limit value (4 in the present embodiment). (S702). If there is a winning at the starting port 32 and the number of balls on hold for operation N <4 (S702: Yes), 1 is added to the number of balls on hold for operation (S703), and the jackpot random number counter updated in step S703 is also added. Each value of C1, jackpot symbol counter C2 and stop pattern selection counter C3 is stored in the first area among the empty reserved areas in the reserved ball storage area 700 of the RAM 503 (S704). On the other hand, if there is no winning at the starting port 32 (S701: No), or even if there is a winning at the starting port 32 and the number of suspended balls N <4 (S702: No), each of S703 and S704 The process is skipped and the start winning process is terminated. After the start winning process is completed, the MPU 501 once ends this timer interrupt process.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the NMI interrupt process. The NMI interrupt process is executed by the MPU 501 of the main controller 261 when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is shut down due to the occurrence of a power failure or the like. That is, when the power of the pachinko machine 10 is cut off due to the occurrence of a power failure or the like, the power failure monitoring circuit 542 in the power failure monitoring device 540 outputs the power failure signal SG1 to the NMI terminal of the MPU 501 in the main control device 261, and the MPU 501 executes The internal control is interrupted and the NMI interrupt process is started. The NMI interrupt process in the present embodiment will be specifically described. The MPU 501 sets power-off occurrence information (specifically, sets a power failure flag to logic “1”) (S801). When the power failure flag is logic “1”, it indicates that the power supply is cut off (power failure), and when the power failure flag is logic “0”, it indicates that the power supply is not in the power interruption (power failure) state. In the following description, “power interruption occurrence information” means a power failure flag.

  Note that the NMI interrupt processing program of FIG. 19 is stored in the ROM 502 of the main controller 261. During the predetermined time after the power failure signal SG1 is output, the backup power is supplied from the power supply device 313 via the power failure monitoring device 540 so that the processing of the main control device 261 can be executed. An NMI interrupt process is executed.

  After the NMI interrupt process is performed, the process returns to the normal process. During the normal process, as described later, the process is executed up to the final process program. When disconnection occurrence information is set, the process proceeds to power failure processing. In this way, in the event of a power failure, the NMI interrupt processing is set only for the power failure flag, the normal processing is executed up to the final processing program, the power off occurrence information setting is confirmed, and the processing proceeds to power failure processing. Can be simplified.

  The NMI interruption process is also executed in the payout control device 311 in the same manner, and from the power supply unit so that the payout control device 311 can execute the process for a predetermined time after the power failure signal SG1 is output. The same applies to power supply.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the MPU 501 in the main controller 261. This main process is started by a reset at power-on. In the main process, first, an initial setting process associated with power-on is executed (S101). Next, in order to wait for the payout control device 311 and the sub control device 262 to become operable, a wait process (for example, about 1 second) is executed (S102). After the wait, access to the RAM 503 is permitted (S103).

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the RAM erase switch is turned on (specifically, whether or not a RAM erase signal is input from the power supply monitoring device) (S104), and if it is turned on (S104: Yes), the process proceeds to S113. On the other hand, if the RAM erasure switch is not turned on (S104: No), it is further determined whether or not the power-off occurrence information is set in the RAM 503 (S105), and if not set (S105: No). Also in this case, the process proceeds to S113. If the occurrence information of power interruption is set (S105: Yes), the RAM determination value is calculated (S106), and the calculated RAM determination value is not normal (S107: No), that is, the calculated RAM determination is performed. If the value does not match the RAM judgment value stored when the power is turned off, the data stored in the RAM (referred to as data in the RAM) has been destroyed. In such a case as well, the process proceeds to S113. As described above, the RAM determination value is, for example, a checksum value at the work area address of the RAM 503. Instead of the RAM determination value, the validity of the RAM data may be determined based on whether or not the keyword written in a predetermined area of the RAM 503 is correctly stored.

  As described above, in the pachinko machine 10, when RAM data is initialized when the power is turned on, for example, at the start of business in the hall, the power is turned on while pressing the RAM erase switch. Therefore, if the RAM erase switch has been pressed, the routine proceeds to RAM initialization processing (S113). Similarly, when the information on occurrence of power interruption is not set, or when abnormality of the RAM data is confirmed by the RAM determination value (checksum value or the like), the process proceeds to initialization processing of the RAM 503 (S113 to S117). To do. That is, in the RAM initialization process from S113, the used area of the RAM 503 is cleared to 0, and the initial value of the RAM 503 is set (S113). Next, a payout initialization command is transmitted to the payout control device 311 (S114), then a command at power-on is transmitted (S115), and the counter and timer are initialized (S116). Thereafter, an interrupt is permitted (S117), and the process proceeds to normal processing described later.

  On the other hand, if the RAM erasure switch is not turned on (S104: No), the information about occurrence of power interruption is set (S105: Yes), and the RAM judgment value (checksum value etc.) is normal (S107). : Yes), the process proceeds to S108, and the information on the occurrence of power interruption is cleared (the power failure flag is set to “0”). Next, a payout return command is transmitted to the payout control device 311 (S109), and then a return command for returning the sub-side control device to the gaming state at the time of power-off is transmitted (S110). The counter and timer are initialized (S111). Thereafter, the interrupt is permitted (S112), and the process proceeds to normal processing described later.

  Next, normal processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In this normal process, the main process of the game is executed. As an outline, each process of S201 to S210 is executed as a periodic process with a period of 4 ms, the power failure flag is monitored in the remaining time process, and the process of power interruption (S212 to S216) is executed.

  In the normal processing, first, output data such as a command updated in the previous processing is transmitted to each control device on the sub side (S201). Specifically, the presence / absence of winning detection information is determined, and if there is winning detection information, a winning ball payout command corresponding to the number of acquired game balls is transmitted to the payout control device 311. In addition, when the decorative symbol display device 42 displays the variation of the decorative symbol, a variable pattern command (a command relating to a symbol variation mode such as normal reach, super reach, premium reach, etc.), a decorative symbol stop symbol code information designation command (specific per designation, non-specific designation) The command is either a specific hit designation or a miss designation. Hereinafter, the command is abbreviated as “decoration stop symbol code information designation command” and may also be referred to as a stop symbol command in some cases. An effect stop command (also referred to as a symbol confirmation command) or the like is transmitted to the sub-control device 262.

  Next, each value of the variation type counters CS1 to CS3 is updated (S202). Specifically, the variation type counters CS1 to CS3 are incremented by 1, and are cleared to 0 when their counter values reach the maximum value (198 in this embodiment). Then, the updated values of the variation type counters CS1 to CS3 are stored in the corresponding buffer area of the RAM 503. Next, a prize ball counting signal, a payout abnormality signal, and a lower pan full signal received from the payout control device 311 are read (S203), and a special symbol change process for performing a special symbol change display by the special symbol display device 38 is executed. (S204). By this special symbol variation processing, in addition to jackpot determination and special symbol variation pattern setting, a variation pattern command for decoration symbol display effect, a decoration stop symbol code information designation command, and an effect time addition designation command Decisions are also made. Details of the special symbol variation process will be described later with reference to FIG.

After the special symbol variation process is finished, open and close the main prize winning opening to open or close the main winning prize opening 400 in the case of a jackpot other than the non-notification mode probability change (normal jackpot, announcement style probability change jackpot) Processing is executed (S205). In other words, the main winning prize opening 400 is opened for each round of the big hit state, and it is determined whether the maximum opening time of the main winning prize opening 400 has elapsed, or whether a predetermined number of game balls have won the main winning prize opening 400. When either of these conditions is satisfied, the main prize winning opening 400 is closed. This is repeated for a predetermined number of rounds. Note that this pachinko machine does not have a specific area (V zone) for continuous opening of the main winning prize opening 400. Therefore, in the big hit state, it does not end in the middle of the predetermined number of rounds. All the predetermined number of rounds are executed.
In the case of non-notification mode probability change, the opening process of the main prize winning opening 400 is not performed, and instead, the opening process of the subsidiary big winning opening 401 is performed (S206).

  Next, in step S207, normal symbol display control by the normal symbol display device 41 is executed. Briefly, the value of the hit random number counter C4 is acquired each time on the condition that the game ball has passed through the second starting port 412, and the display lamps 41a and 41b of the normal symbol display device 41 are used. Normal symbol variation display is implemented. Then, when the normal symbol lottery is carried out based on the value of the winning random number counter C4 and the normal symbol hit state (a state where “◯” is displayed) is reached, the first start port 32 is opened for a predetermined time (S208).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the information on occurrence of power interruption has been set (S209). If it has been set (S209: Yes), the process proceeds to S213, interrupt inhibition is set (S213), and the power Is transmitted to another control device (S214), and then the output of the control signal is stopped (S215). Next, a RAM determination value is calculated and stored (S216). The RAM determination value is, for example, a checksum value at the work area address of the RAM 503. Thereafter, access to the RAM 503 is prohibited (S217), and the infinite loop is continued until the power supply is completely shut down and the processing cannot be executed.

  If the power-off occurrence information is not set (S209: No), the process proceeds to step S210, whether or not the next normal process execution timing has been reached, that is, a predetermined time (from the start of the previous normal process) In this embodiment, it is determined whether or not 4 ms) has elapsed (S210). If the predetermined time has already elapsed (S210: Yes), the process returns to step S201.

  On the other hand, if the predetermined time has not yet elapsed since the start of the previous normal process (S210: No), the initial value is within the remaining time until the predetermined time is reached, that is, until the next normal process is executed. The random number counter CINI1, the hit initial value random number counter CINI2, and the variation type counters CS1 to CS3 are repeatedly updated (S211 and S212). First, the initial value random number counter CINI1 and the hit initial value random number counter CINI2 are updated (S211). Specifically, the counters CINI1 and CINI2 are each incremented by 1 and cleared to 0 when their counter values reach the maximum values (738 and 250 in this embodiment). Then, the updated values of the counters CINI1 and CINI2 are stored in the corresponding buffer areas B4 and B9 of the RAM 503, respectively. Next, the counter variation type counters CS1 to CS3 are updated (S212). Specifically, each of the variation type counters CS1 to CS3 is incremented by 1 and cleared to 0 when the counter values reach the maximum value. Then, the update values of the variation type counters CS1 to CS3 are stored in the corresponding buffer areas B5, B6 and B7 of the RAM 503, respectively.

  Thus, since the execution time of each process of S201-S210 changes according to the state of the game, the remaining time until the next execution timing of the normal process is not constant and varies. Therefore, the initial value random number counter CINI1 (that is, the initial value of the big hit random number counter C1) and the hit initial value are repeatedly executed by repeatedly updating the initial value random number counter CINI1 and the hit initial value random number counter CINI2 using the remaining time. The random number counter CINI2 (that is, the initial value of the hit random number counter C4) can be updated at random. Similarly, the variation type counters CS1 to CS3 can be updated at random.

  Next, the special symbol variation process (S204) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the special symbol variation process, first, it is determined whether or not a big hit is currently being made (S401). The jackpot includes a jackpot game displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42 when a jackpot is won and a predetermined time after the jackpot game is over. As a result of the determination, if it is a big hit (S401: Yes), this processing is terminated as it is.

  If it is not a big hit (S401: No), it is determined whether or not the special symbol is being displayed by the special symbol display device 38 (S402). If the special symbol is not being displayed (S402: No), It is determined whether or not the number N of actuated balls on the special symbol display device 38 is greater than 0 (S403). If the number N of active balls is 0 (S403: No), this process is terminated as it is. If the number of the operation reservation balls N> 0 (S403: Yes), the operation reservation ball number N is decremented by 1 (S404), and the data stored in the storage ball storage area 700 is shifted (S405). This data shift process is a process for sequentially shifting the data stored in the reserved first to fourth areas of the reserved ball storage area 700 to the execution area side. The reserved first area → the execution area, the reserved second area Specifically, data in each area is shifted, such as a hold first area, a hold third area, a hold second area, a hold fourth area, and a hold third area. After the data shift process, a special symbol variation start process is executed (S406). The variation start process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In the process of S402, when the variation display of the special symbol is being performed (S402: Yes), it is determined whether or not the variation time has elapsed (S407). The variation time of the special symbol is determined according to the variation pattern of the special symbol. When the variation time has not elapsed (S407: No), the display symbol of the special symbol is updated (S408), and this process is performed. finish. Here, “update the display symbol of the special symbol” means that the special symbol display lamps 38a and 38b are changed to a lighting state different from the current lighting state. For example, the case where the lighting color of the special symbol display lamps 38a and 38b is changed is applicable. When the variation time has elapsed (S407: Yes), the special symbol stop symbol is set as the display symbol (S409). Here, “special symbol stop symbol is set as display symbol” means that special symbol display lamps 38a and 38b are lit in a stop symbol (the lighting color of the lamp corresponding to specific hit, non-specific hit, and off respectively). It means to do. Next, an effect pattern stop command is set (S410), and this process ends.

  Next, the variation start process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the fluctuation start process (S406), first, it is determined whether or not a big hit is made based on the value of the big hit random number counter C1 stored in the execution area of the reserved ball storage area 700 (S501). Whether or not the jackpot is determined is based on the relationship between the jackpot random number counter value and the mode at that time. As described above, “373,727” is the winning value among the numerical values 0 to 738 of the jackpot random number counter C1 at the normal low probability, and “59, 109, 163, 211, 263, 317, 367, 421, at the high probability. "479, 523, 577, 631, 683, 733" is the winning value.

  When it is determined that the game is a jackpot (S501: Yes), the symbol corresponding to the value of the jackpot symbol counter C2 stored in the execution area of the reserved ball storage area 700, that is, the jackpot symbol is the value of the jackpot symbol counter C2 and the symbol. The symbol (either a specific symbol or a non-specific symbol) is set as a stop symbol (S502). Next, the jackpot effect pattern is determined by checking the count values of the variation type counters CS1 and CS2 (S503).

  Next, the value of the variation type counter CS3 is confirmed to determine the effect time addition (S504). Next, an effect pattern designation command (also referred to as a variation pattern designation command) is set according to the jackpot effect pattern determined in step S503 (S505), and a decoration stop symbol code information command is set according to the stop symbol set in step S502. Set (S506), and when the effect time addition is determined in step S504, an effect time addition designation command is set (S506). In this way, in steps S501 to S507, an effect pattern designation command, a decoration stop symbol code information command, and an effect time addition designation command in the case of a big win are set.

If it is determined in step S501 that the game is not a big hit (S501: No), the off symbol is set as a stop symbol (S508). An off-stage production pattern is determined (S509). Then, an effect pattern designation command, a decoration stop symbol code information command, and an effect time addition designation command in the case of not being a big hit are set by the processing of steps S504 to S507, respectively.
In the case of non-notification mode probability variation (sudden probability variation), as described above, the special symbol is a stop symbol per probability variation, but the decorative symbol stop symbol is a stop symbol in the case of detachment. Accordingly, the decoration stop symbol code information command in step S506 is a command with a content for designating a detachment. In other words, in the case of a normal jackpot or notification mode probability variation (normal probability variation per unit), the decoration stop symbol code information command in step S506 includes non-specific (ordinary per unit) designation and specific (per unit probable per unit) designation, respectively. However, in the case of non-notification mode probability change, the command is a command with a designation of detachment in order to obtain a stop symbol similar to that in the case of losing. Whether or not it is a non-notification mode probability change is determined based on the value of the jackpot symbol counter C2. That is, among the values 0 to 9 of the jackpot symbol counter C2, as described above, “0, 4, 5, 6” is a normal jackpot value, and “1, 2, 3, 7” is a notification mode probability variation. Since it is a value and “8, 9” is a non-notification aspect probability variation value, it can be determined whether or not it is a non-notification aspect probability variation based on the value of the jackpot symbol counter C2.

  In the case of non-notification mode probable change, it is not limited to the command with the content of the designation of disengagement so that the stop pattern is the same as in the case of disengagement, for example, “1, 2, 3” You may make it use the command which designates the exclusive symbol per non-notification mode certain change.

  Here, based on FIG. 27, the overall flow until the sudden probability variation process is performed will be described. First, determine if a jackpot has occurred. If the jackpot has not occurred (S1600: No), the jackpot processing is not performed and the normal processing is continued. If the jackpot has occurred (S1600: Yes), it is determined whether the jackpot is per probability change. When it is not per probability fluctuation (S1602: No), normal hit processing is performed (S1603). In the case of per probability change (S1602: Yes), it is further determined whether or not the jackpot is not notified. When it is not a jackpot non-notification mode (S1604: No), a normal probability changing process is performed in order to make the player recognize per probability change (S1605). In the case of the jackpot non-notification mode (S1604: Yes), the solenoid is turned on to open the secondary big prize opening 401 (S1606). It is determined whether the opening time of the secondary big prize opening 401 has passed 1 second (S1607). When 1 second has passed, the solenoid is turned off and the secondary big prize winning opening 401 is closed (S1608). Thereafter, special display processing of the decorative symbol display device 42 is performed (S1609), and further, special processing of the variable winning device 32 including the pair of opening / closing blades 430 is performed (S1610).

  Specifically, the special display processing of the decorative symbol display device 42 is, for example, changing the character from the normal time or changing the background color from the normal time. While the color is blue, the background color is purple when the probability changes. The special process of the variable winning device 32 includes changing the time and the number of times the pair of opening / closing blades 430 are opened, changing the lottery time for whether the opening / closing blades 430 are opened, etc. In this mode, a lottery is performed to determine whether or not to open and close the opening / closing blade 430 once every 30 seconds in a normal state. When winning, the opening / closing blade 430 is opened (only once) for 0.5 seconds. On the other hand, when the probability changes, a lottery is performed once every 2 seconds to determine whether to open or close the opening / closing blade 430. When winning, the opening / closing blade 430 is opened for 1.0 second at intervals of 1.0 seconds (number of times). 3).

  Next, each process executed by the MPU 550 of the sub control device 262 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a main process of the sub-control device 262, and this main process is started by a reset at power-on.

  The main process of the sub-control device 262 first executes an initial setting process associated with power-on (S911), initializes I / O and timer, and sets each interrupt such as a timer interrupt. Next, it is determined whether or not all the power-off processes have been completed, that is, whether all the lamps are turned off or the speaker is muted (S912). When all the power-off processes are completed (S912: Yes), the process proceeds to S914. If all the power-off processes have not been completed (S912: No), the RAM 552 may be destroyed, so it is determined whether or not the RAM 552 is destroyed (S913). Specifically, RAM destruction check data is preset in the RAM 552, and the determination is made based on the RAM destruction check data. When it is determined that the RAM 552 is not destroyed (S913: No), the process proceeds to step S917. On the other hand, when it is determined that the RAM 552 is destroyed (S913: Yes), a read / write check is performed on each area of the RAM 552 (S914), and whether or not the RAM 552 functions normally based on the result of the read / write check is determined. It discriminate | determines (S915). When the RAM 552 is not normal (S915: No), a predetermined lamp is turned on to notify the RAM abnormality (S921).

  On the other hand, if the RAM 552 is normal (S915: Yes), RAM destruction check data is set in the RAM 552 (S916). Next, it is determined whether or not the power is turned on after the power is turned off (S917). If the power is not turned on after the power is turned off (S917: No), the area other than the uninitialized area in the RAM 522 is cleared (S918). Thereby, all the commands transmitted from the main controller 261 other than the power command are cleared. Next, interrupts such as timer interruption and command reception processing from the main control device 261 are permitted (S919). Next, the initial value of the RAM 522 is set (S920), and thereafter, the process proceeds to normal processing described later. On the other hand, if the power is turned on after the power is turned off in step S917, the process proceeds to step S919.

  Next, normal processing of the sub-control device 262 will be described with reference to FIG. First, it is determined whether 1 ms or more has elapsed (S1031). If it is before 1 ms has elapsed (S1031: No), the random numbers for generating the off symbol, the jackpot symbol, the notice symbol, etc. related to the decorative symbol are updated (S1040). Specifically, a jackpot decorative symbol (for a specific symbol) counter, a jackpot decorative symbol (for a non-specific symbol) counter, a reach decorative symbol counter, a complete off-decorative symbol counter, a symbol counter for effects such as a warning symbol, etc. are provided. The counter values associated with these decorative symbols are updated. Note that the values of these counters are updated randomly. That is, by using the value of the R register built in the MPU 550, the values of these counters are updated at random. That is, when updating these counters, the lower 2 bits of the R register are added to the previous value, and when the addition result exceeds the maximum value, “6” is subtracted to determine the current value.

  After the random number update process (S1040), a command is received from the main controller 261, and a process corresponding to each command is performed (S1041). Here, if the command from the main control device 261 is a command related to the display of decorative symbols, the command to the display control device 45 is edited based on the command, and the edited command is sent to the display control device 45. Send. More specifically, the display command from the main controller 261 includes a variation pattern designation command (a command generated based on the stop pattern selection counter C3 and the variation type counters CS1 and CS2, and includes normal reach, super reach, A command for designating a pattern variation mode such as premium reach), a decoration stop symbol code information command (a command for specific designation, designation for non-specific designation, or designation for removal), a production command (generated based on a variation type counter CS3) Command for changing the change time), stop command (decorative symbol stop command, so-called confirmation command), and the like. On the other hand, the sub-control device 262 transmits the variation pattern designation command from the main control device 261 as it is to the display control device 45, but the decoration stop symbol code information command is specific for each specific designation, non-specific designation, and out-specification. Edit the decorative command (stop symbol) into the determined command. In this editing, the stop symbol is determined by the decorative symbol counter in the MPU 550. In addition, the production command from the main control device 261 is edited into a command including designation of various productions in addition to the change of the variation time. Then, the sub control device 262 transmits these commands to the display control device 45. As a result, the display control device 45 analyzes the received command, generates an image of a decorative symbol in accordance with the command, and outputs the image to the decorative symbol display device 42, whereby the decorative symbol display device 42 displays a predetermined effect display. In this way, the variable display is executed.

Thereafter, it is confirmed whether or not the RAM 552 is destroyed (S1042). If it is not destroyed (S1042: No), the process returns to step S1031. If it is destroyed (S1042: Yes), an infinite loop process is performed.
On the other hand, in step S1031, if 1 ms or more has elapsed (S1031: Yes), a lamp lighting pattern corresponding to the effect pattern of the decorative symbol display device 42 is output to the effect lamp 811 and the effect lamp 811 is turned on ( S1032). The creation of the lamp lighting pattern is specifically performed by the process of step S1037 described later. Next, a predetermined lamp is turned on for 30 seconds by a power-on command, and notification is made (S1033). Next, a customer waiting effect command for switching between the title of the decorative symbol and the still image is generated and transmitted to the display control device 45 (S1034). Next, when displaying the reserved number of special symbols on the decorative symbol display device 42, a command for generating the reserved number display is generated and transmitted to the display control device 45 (S1035).

  Next, the input operation of the effect button 79 is confirmed. When there is an input operation, an effect command is generated so that a predetermined effect corresponding to the effect button 79 is displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42, It transmits to the display control apparatus 45 (S1036). Next, the lamp lighting pattern corresponding to the effect pattern of the decorative design display device 42 is edited (S1037), the sound pattern of the speaker 810 corresponding to the effect pattern of the decorative design display device 42 is edited, and the sound pattern is displayed on the speaker 810. It outputs (S1038).

Next, various time managements for executing the display effect of the decorative symbol display device 42 are performed (S1038). Thereafter, the process returns to step S1031 via steps S1040, S1041, and S1042.
In this way, the sub-control device 262 is based on the sounding control of the effect speaker 810 and the lighting (flashing) control of the effect lamp 811 according to the variation display of the decorative design, and the command from the main control device 261. Edit command to display control device 45 and send to display control device 45

  Next, display control in the display control device 45 will be described. FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing display control processing executed by the MPU 521 in the display control device 45. The MPU 521 executes display control of the decorative symbol display device 42 while processing various commands provided from the sub-control device 262 according to the procedure shown in FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not a display command has been received from the sub-control device 262 (S1151). If not received (S1151: No), it waits until some command is received. When a display command is received (S1151: Yes), the contents of the display command are stored in the RAM 523 (S1152). Next, various arithmetic processes such as generating an internal command for the image controller 526 are started based on the information stored in the RAM 523 (S1153). As a result, the image controller 526 starts drawing processing in response to a command (internal command) from the MPU 521. It should be noted that symbol display is continued under the cooperation of the MPU 521 and the image controller 526 until a display command is received after receiving the display command. Meanwhile, the MPU 521 performs the control of the image controller 526 and the command reception process shown in FIG. 22 in parallel.

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not a confirmation command has been received from the sub-control device 262 (S1154). Then, on the condition that the confirmation command has been received, the process proceeds to step S1155, and the image controller 526 is instructed to display the confirmation with the stop symbol. As a result, the image controller 526 displays the changed symbol as a stop symbol. In this way, one round of display processing is performed from the start of change of the symbol to the stop of change (definite display). The display control device 45 is controlled by the sub-control device 262 at the time of starting and stopping the change of the symbol, but the continuous change of the symbol during that time is autonomous by the MPU 521 and the image controller 526 in the display control device 45. Is secured by proper image control.

  Next, payout control executed by the MPU 511 in the payout control device 311 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a main process of the payout control apparatus 311. This main process is started by a reset at power-on.

  First, initial setting processing accompanying power-on is executed (S1201). Specifically, a predetermined value set in advance in the stack pointer and an interrupt mode are set. Next, RAM access is permitted (S1202), and an external interrupt vector is set (S1203).

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the information on occurrence of power interruption is stored in the RAM 513 (S1204). If not stored (S1204: No), the process proceeds to S1210. If the occurrence information of the power interruption is stored in the RAM 513 (S1204: Yes), the RAM determination value is calculated (S1205), and the calculated RAM determination value is not normal (S1206: No), that is, the calculated RAM determination. If the value does not match the RAM determination value stored when the power is turned off, the data stored in the RAM 513 has been destroyed. In this case as well, the process proceeds to S1210. As described above, the RAM determination value is a checksum value at a work area address of the RAM 513, for example. Instead of the RAM determination value, the validity of the data stored in the RAM 513 may be determined based on whether or not the keyword written in a predetermined area of the RAM 513 is correctly stored.

  In the RAM initialization process from step S1210, the used area of the RAM 513 is cleared to 0 (S1210), and the initial value of the RAM 513 is set (S1211). Thereafter, the MPU 511 peripheral device is initialized (S1208), an interrupt is permitted (S1209), and the process proceeds to a payout control process described later.

  On the other hand, if the power-off occurrence information is set (S1204: Yes) and the RAM judgment value (checksum value etc.) is normal (S1206: Yes), the process at the time of power recovery (at the time of power-off restoration) Process). That is, the initial value of the RAM 513 is set (S1207), the MPU511 peripheral device is initialized (S1208), the interrupt is permitted (S1209), and the process proceeds to a payout control process described later.

Next, the payout control process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. This payout control process is executed following the main process of the payout control device 311. In the payout control process, first, a command from the main controller 261 is acquired and stored as the total number of winning balls (S1301). Here, if the command from the main control device 261 is a regular command, all the payouts are permitted. If the command from the main control device 261 is a prize ball command, a payout return command, or a payout initialization command, processing corresponding to the command is performed.
Next, it is determined whether or not a payout permission command transmitted from the main controller 261 is received (S1302: No). When the payout permission command is received (S1302: Yes), the state return operation is executed when it is determined that the state return operation is started as a result of checking the state return switch 321 (S1303).

  Thereafter, the setting of the lower plate full state or the lower plate full state is executed according to the change in the state of the lower plate 15 (S1304). That is, when the lower plate 15 is full based on the detection signal from the lower plate full switch, when the lower plate is full, the lower plate full state is set. , Set the lower pan full release state. Further, the setting of the tank ball absence state or the tank ball absence release state is executed according to the change of the tank ball state (S1305). That is, the tank ball no switch state is determined based on the detection signal of the tank ball no switch, and when the tank ball is not used, the tank ball no state setting is executed. Perform configuration. Thereafter, the presence / absence of a notification state is determined, and if there is a notification state, notification is made by a 7-segment LED provided in the payout control device 311 (S1306).

  Next, a prize ball payout process is executed by each process of S1307, S1308, and S1315. That is, if the prize ball is not paid out and the total number of prize balls stored in S1301 is not 0 (S1307: No, S1308: No), the prize ball control process shown in FIG. 25 is started (S1315). . On the other hand, if the prize ball cannot be paid out (S1307: Yes) or if the total number of prize balls is 0 (S1308: Yes), the process proceeds to the lending and payout process. The prize ball control process will be described later.

  In the rental ball payout processing of S1309, S1310, and S1316, if the ball payout is not possible and a loan ball payout request has been received from the card unit (S1309: No, S1310: Yes), it is shown in FIG. The lending control process is started (S1316). The ball rental control process will be described later.

  On the other hand, if it is not in the lending-out state of the lending ball and has not received a lending-out request from the card unit (S1309: No, S1310: No), or if it is in the lending-out state of lending (S1309: Yes) ), Vibrator control (vibrating motor control) is executed for releasing the ball clogging state (S1311). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not a power failure has occurred (S1312). If a power failure has not occurred (S1312: No), the process returns to step S1301. If a power outage has occurred (S1312: Yes), information on the occurrence of power interruption is set (S1313), a RAM determination value is created (S1314), and then an infinite loop is entered to wait for input of a reset signal.

  Next, the prize ball control process shown in FIG. 25 will be described. In the winning ball control process, first, the payout motor 358a is driven to rotate in the forward direction, and the paying of the winning ball is executed (S1401). Whether the rotation of the payout motor 358a is normal is determined based on the detection result of the payout rotation sensor (S1402). If not normal (S1402: No), the payout motor 358a is driven to execute a retry process and the payout motor 358a. The stop process is executed (S1403), and then the process returns to the payout control process of FIG.

  If the rotation of the payout motor 358a is normal (S1402: Yes), it is determined from the detection result of the payout count switch whether the game ball is normally counted (S1404). If the game ball count is not normal (S1404: No), the payout motor 358a is driven to execute a retry process and the payout motor 358a is stopped (S1405). Thereafter, the payout control process of FIG. Return.

  Further, if the game ball count is normal (S1404: Yes), it is determined whether or not the game ball count by the payout count switch has reached the total number of prize balls and the payout is completed (S1406). If completed (S1406: Yes), the payout motor 358a is stopped (S1407), and then the payout control process of FIG. 20 is returned. On the other hand, if the payout has not been completed (S1406: No), the process returns to the payout control process of FIG.

  Next, the ball rental control process shown in FIG. 26 will be described. In the ball lending control process, first, the payout motor 358a is driven to rotate in the forward direction to pay out a lending ball (S1501). Whether the rotation of the payout motor 358a is normal is determined based on the detection result of the payout rotation sensor (S1502). If not normal (S1502: No), the payout motor 358a is driven to execute a retry process and the payout motor 358a. The stop process is executed (S1503), and then the process returns to the payout control process of FIG.

  If the rotation of the payout motor 358a is normal (S1502: Yes), it is determined from the detection result of the payout count switch whether or not the game ball is normally counted (S1504). If the game ball count is not normal (S1504: No), the payout motor 358a is driven to execute a retry process and the payout motor 358a is stopped (S1505). Thereafter, the payout control process of FIG. Return.

  Further, if the game ball count is normal (S1504: Yes), it is determined whether or not the game ball count by the payout count switch has reached a predetermined number (25) and the payout is completed ( If the payout has been completed (S1506: Yes), the payout motor 358a is stopped (S1507), and then the payout control process of FIG. 24 is returned to. On the other hand, if the payout has not been completed (S1506: No), the process returns to the payout control process of FIG.

(Functional configuration related to control of subsidiary item 452)
A configuration necessary for controlling the subsidiary item 452 according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 29 is a functional block diagram of the main controller 261 and the sub controller 262. A solenoid SL3 is connected to the main controller 261, and the solenoid SL3 drives a bag 452A that serves as a winning movable portion of the sub-large winning opening. The solenoid SL3 is controlled by the saddle solenoid controller 1200. A solenoid SL4 and a solenoid SL5 are connected to the sub-control device 262. The solenoid SL4 has a role of driving the neck 452B and the solenoid SL5 drives the blade 452C. The solenoid SL4 and the solenoid SL5 are controlled by the movable part solenoid control unit 1202. The received command determination processing unit 1201, which is the main part of the driving process of the secondary role 452, is a predetermined command (in this embodiment, a variation pattern command, a stop symbol command, a symbol confirmation command, and a command sent from the main control device 261. When a jackpot opening command is received, an operation pattern of the neck 452B and the blade 452C corresponding to each received command is selected from an operation pattern table group (details will be described later), and the neck 452B is selected according to the selected operation pattern. The blade 452C is operated (that is, the solenoid SL4 and the solenoid SL5 are excited and demagnetized).

  The above-mentioned operation pattern table group is four tables T1 to T4 (neck pattern table T1, blade pattern table T2, neck operation pattern table T3, blade operation pattern table T4).

In the neck pattern table T1, as shown in FIG. 30 (1), a neck motion pattern number is assigned to each of the variation pattern numbers designated by the variation pattern command transmitted from the main control device 261. The neck type number is uniquely determined using the variation pattern number held by the variation pattern command as a key. Similarly, in the blade pattern table T2, as shown in FIG. 30 (2), a blade operation pattern number is assigned to each variation pattern number specified by the variation pattern command transmitted from the main control device 261. The blade type number is uniquely determined using the variation pattern number held in the variation pattern command as a key. For example, when the variation pattern number of the variation pattern command sent is 001, “neck type 1” is used as the neck operation pattern by the neck pattern table T1, and “blade type 5” is used as the blade operation pattern by the blade pattern table T2. Is selected.
As shown in FIG. 30 (3), the neck motion pattern table T3 is stored so that the specific motion content of the neck motion pattern uniquely corresponds to each motion pattern. In the above example, the operation content of “neck type 1” is that solenoid SL4 is “excitation 1 second demagnetization 0.5 seconds × 1 time”, that is, “solenoid SL4 is kept open (excitation) for 1 second and then closed. (Demagnetization) state is continued for 0.5 seconds. This series of processing is performed once.
Similarly, as shown in FIG. 30 (4), the blade operation pattern table T4 is stored so that the specific operation content of the blade operation pattern uniquely corresponds to each operation pattern. The operation contents of the solenoid SL4 and the solenoid SL5 in response to a command other than the fluctuation pattern command are stored in the neck operation pattern table T3 and the blade operation pattern table T4 (for example, the operation contents of the solenoid SL4 at the time of sudden probability change big hit are Neck type 126).

  The received command determination processing unit 1201 in the sub-control device 262 has a function of determining the operation pattern numbers of the neck 452B and the blade 452C, and the determined numbers are stored in the operation pattern address holding unit 1203. Each of the stored operation pattern numbers is referred to by the above-described movable part solenoid control unit 1202 to control each solenoid.

  In addition, the movable portion effect lottery counter C10 in the sub-control device 262 performs lottery only when the received command determination processing unit 1201 receives a symbol confirmation command, and the neck 452B is displayed when the decorative symbol variation display is stopped by the symbol confirmation command. And a function of randomly determining whether or not to operate the blade 452C. In the present embodiment, for example, the movable part effect lottery counter C10 is a loop counter that ranges from 0 to 58, and “7, 13, 29, 41” is the winning value. By deciding whether or not to produce by the lottery by the movable part production lottery counter C10, there is an effect of suppressing the operation of the production movable unit from being uniform.

Based on the above functions, a specific processing flow will be described below.
FIG. 31 shows the flow of processing of the received command determination processing unit 1201. First, in step S2100, a command transmitted from main controller 261 is received, and the content of this received command is determined. When the received command is any one of a variation pattern command, a stop symbol command, a symbol confirmation command, and a jackpot opening command, the received command is determined to determine an operation pattern for operating the neck 452B and the blade 452C. The corresponding predetermined processing is performed (S2101, S2102, S2103, S2104). Here, the variation pattern command, stop symbol command, symbol confirmation command, and jackpot opening command are transmitted from the main controller 261 in time series. That is, since these commands are commands corresponding to a game flow starting from the start of the decorative display of decorative symbols, and stopping the display of variations and generating jackpots, they are always transmitted in this order. Based on this property, the predetermined processing corresponding to each received command will be described below.

  When receiving the variation pattern command, the reception command determination processing unit 1201 performs variation pattern command processing (S2101). The variation pattern command is for designating a display mode in the variation display of the decorative symbol, and the variation pattern command processing (S2101) is a process for determining an operation pattern of the effect movable unit corresponding to the plurality of variation patterns.

  If a stop symbol command is received, stop symbol command processing (S2102) is performed. The stop symbol command process (S2102) plays a role of a trigger for starting the operation of the effect movable part according to the operation pattern of the subsidiary character determined in the variation pattern command process (S2101).

  Next, when a symbol determination command is received, symbol determination command processing (S2103) is performed. The symbol confirmation command is a command for stopping the variation display of the decorative symbol, and in the symbol determination command processing (S2103), in order to operate the effect movable portion when receiving this command, that is, at the timing when the variation display is stopped. Perform the process. Furthermore, in this embodiment, in order to prevent the operation of the effect movable part from being uniform, even if the symbol confirmation command is received, the effect movable part is not always operated, but the effect movable part effect lottery counter C10 is set. Utilizing it, it is determined whether or not to operate the production movable unit. Only when the lottery is won, the effect movable unit is operated.

  Next, when a jackpot opening command is received, a sudden probability change process (S2104) is performed. The jackpot opening command is generally a display effect indicating that a special game state is displayed on the decorative symbol display device 42 when a jackpot occurs, but this command indicates the start of this display effect. is there. Therefore, the sudden probability change process (S2104) is a process for operating the subsidiary character even when the sudden probability change jackpot occurs. This is for the purpose of preventing the player from being aware of the sudden occurrence of a promiscuous jackpot, that is, the opening / closing process of the 嘴 452A (winning movable part of the secondary big prize opening). is there.

Next, details of each of the command processes will be described.
FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the contents of the variation pattern command process (S2101). First, the operation pattern number (neck type number) of the neck 452B corresponding to the variation pattern number of the variation pattern command is selected from the neck pattern table T1 (S2200). The address storing the selected neck type number is stored in the operation pattern address holding unit 1202 (S2201). Similarly, the operation pattern number (blade type number) of the blade 452C corresponding to the variation pattern number is selected from the blade pattern table T2 (S2202). The address storing the selected blade type number is stored in the operation pattern address holding unit 1202 (S2203). Through a series of processes, the operation pattern number of the effect movable unit corresponding to the variation pattern transmitted from the main control device 261 is determined. This stored operation pattern number is used by the effect movable unit solenoid control unit 1202 described later.

  FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing the contents of the stop symbol command process (S2102). As described above, the stop symbol command process (S2102) actually starts and controls the solenoid SL4 and the solenoid SL5 in order to start the operation of the effect movable unit at the timing when the stop symbol command is received. In response to this, only the start of solenoid control is commanded (S2300).

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing the contents of the symbol determination command process (S2103). First, with reference to the value of the effect movable part effect lottery counter C10, it is determined whether or not the subsidiary character is operated (S2400). When it is out of the lottery (S2400: No), the process is terminated. In other words, the accessory is not moved even when the decorative symbol variation display stops. On the other hand, when the lottery is won (S2400: Yes), the neck pattern number (neck type number) for the symbol determination command is acquired from the neck motion pattern table T3 (S2401). The acquired neck type number is stored in the operation pattern address holding unit 1202 (S2402). Similarly, the blade operation pattern number (blade type number) is acquired from the blade operation pattern table T4 (S2403), and the blade type number is stored in the operation pattern address holding unit 1202 (S2404). After each motion pattern number is determined, a command for starting the operation of the subsidiary character is finally transmitted to the effect movable portion solenoid control unit 1202 (S2405), and the series of processing ends.

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing the contents of the sudden probability variation jackpot process (S2104). A neck motion pattern number (neck type number) for sudden probability change is acquired from the neck motion pattern table T3 (S2500). The acquired neck type number is stored in the operation pattern address holding unit 1202 (S2501). Similarly, the blade operation pattern number (blade type number) is acquired from the blade operation pattern table T4 (S2502), and the blade type number is stored in the operation pattern address holding unit 1202 (S2503). After each operation pattern number is determined, an instruction to start the operation of the effect moving part is finally transmitted to the effect moving part solenoid control unit 1202 (S2504), and the series of processes ends.

  The above-described processing for each received command has the main role of determining the operation pattern number for operating the effect movable unit, but the control for actually operating the effect movable unit is the effect movable described below. This is performed by the solenoid control unit 1202.

  FIG. 36 is a functional block diagram of the effect movable part solenoid control unit 1202. The effect movable unit solenoid control unit 1202 receives a command sent from the processing unit for each received command and analyzes the operation pattern of the accessory, and controls driving of the solenoid SL4. A solenoid SL4 control unit 1301, a solenoid SL5 control unit 1302 for driving and controlling the solenoid SL5, a timer TM1 for measuring a time interval between excitation and demagnetization of the solenoid SL4, and a time interval between excitation and demagnetization of the solenoid SL5 It has a timer TM2, a counter C20 that counts the number of opening / closing operations of the solenoid SL4, and a counter C21 that counts the number of opening / closing operations of the solenoid SL5.

Based on the above configuration, the processing flow of the effect movable unit solenoid control unit 1202 shown in FIG. 37 will be described.
First, the neck type number stored in the operation pattern address holding unit 1202 is read (S2600). Using this neck type number, the contents (for example, excitation 1 s demagnetization 0.5 s × 2 times) for actually driving the solenoid SL4 are read from the neck operation pattern table T3 (S2601). The read content is analyzed and controlled by exciting and demagnetizing the solenoid SL4 using the solenoid SL4 control unit 1301, the timer TM1, and the counter C20 (S2602). Similarly, the blade type number stored in the operation pattern address holding unit 1202 is read (S2603). Using this number, the content of actually driving the solenoid SL5 is read from the blade operation pattern table T4 (S2604). The read content is analyzed, and the solenoid SL5 is excited and demagnetized using the solenoid SL5 control unit 1302, the timer TM2, and the counter C21 (S2605). In this way, the neck 452B is operated when the solenoid SL4 is excited and demagnetized, and the blade 452B is operated when the solenoid SL5 is excited and demagnetized. The above is the flow of operation control of the neck 452 </ b> B and the blade 452 </ b> C as the effect moving part in the sub-control device 262.

A description will be given of the control of the sub-award winning opening provided in the main controller 261, that is, the base 452A. As shown in FIG. 29, solenoid SL3 for operating hook 452A is controlled by hook solenoid control section 1200 in main controller 261.
With reference to FIG. 38, the control processing of the bag 452A will be described. FIG. 38 is a process flowchart of the solenoid control unit 1200. In this embodiment, since the kite 452A is operated only at the time of sudden probability variation jackpot, it is determined whether or not sudden probability variation jackpot has occurred by referring to the value of the jackpot symbol counter C2 (actually buffer B2) (S2700). That is, in this embodiment, the solenoid SL3 is controlled when the jackpot symbol counter C2 is “8” or “9”. If this sudden change in probability occurs, the solenoid SL3 is subjected to a predetermined driving process (S2701). For example, solenoid SL3 is energized for 0.5 seconds (ie, 嘴 452A is open), then demagnetized for 1.0 second (ie, 嘴 452A is closed), and then energized again for 0.5 seconds (generally special 2 rounds of gaming in the gaming state). By such a process, the opening / closing process of the secondary big prize opening for the sudden probability change jackpot is performed.
In addition to the processing method described above, there is no problem even if the processing method of the sub-winning prize opening in the main control device 261 is performed by the processing of FIG. 28 described above.

  By performing the processing as described above, the player recognizes it as one accessory (that is, a subsidiary accessory 452) having a movable part of the heel 452A, the neck 452B, and the blade 452C, and suddenly a probable big hit state. Even if the 嘴 452A, which is the secondary big prize opening, is operated for the second predetermined time, it is recognized as just one pattern of the effect operation of the actor, and the 可 動 452A suddenly opens and closes the secondary big prize opening at the probable big hit. It is possible to exert an effect that makes it difficult to realize that the role is played. As a result, suddenly it becomes difficult to realize the opening and closing of the extra big prize opening at the probable jackpot.

[Second form]
The configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment except that the processing per sudden change is slightly different. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 28, the normal display process is performed in S1609, and the normal process of the variable prize winning device 32 including the pair of opening and closing blades 430 is performed in S1610, and other steps (S1600 to S1600). 1608) is the same as the first embodiment.

  Specifically, the normal display process of the decorative symbol display device 42 refers to, for example, a process in which the character, background color, and the like are not changed at all during normal times (a state other than the special game state). In addition, the normal process of the variable winning device 32 is a lottery of whether to open / close the opening / closing blades 430 once every 30 seconds. A process that is performed only once). By performing such processing, when the player is in the jackpot non-notification mode, it is difficult for the player to recognize not only that the jackpot has been generated but also that the player is in a probability fluctuation state after the jackpot has occurred.

[Third embodiment]
In the second embodiment, since the player makes an effect that makes it difficult for the player to recognize per probability change, the player ends the game without recognizing it as it is. The player's interests may be lost. Therefore, in the second mode, in order not to impair the player's profit, only in the state of sudden probability change, “there is no state where there is a lottery lottery holding ball” and “the player releases his hand from the game ball launching handle” When the condition is satisfied, the probability sudden hit state is suddenly notified from the speaker (notification by voice, etc.).

Specific contents will be described below.
FIG. 39 is a functional block diagram of the main control device 261 and the sub-control device 262. FIG. 39 mainly shows a functional configuration for executing the notification processing, and a configuration not related to the notification processing execution function is omitted. I draw. The main control device 261 determines whether or not there is a reserved ball presence determination unit 1000 that determines whether or not a big hit lottery holding ball exists, a notification processing determination unit 1002 that determines whether or not to perform notification processing, and a notification command. And a notification command generation unit 1004 for generation. The notification processing determination unit 1002 is provided with a determination output signal from the reserved ball presence determination unit 1000 and a detection output signal from the touch sensor 1001. In addition, the notification processing control unit 1002 is connected to a sudden probability change state flag F10 so that it can be determined whether or not a sudden probability change state is in effect based on the logical value of the sudden probability change state flag F10. If the sudden probability change state flag F10 is set to logic "1", it indicates that the sudden probability change state is in effect, and if the sudden probability change state flag F10 is set to logic "0". Suddenly, it is not in a probable state.

  The holding ball presence / absence determination unit 1000 determines whether or not there is a holding ball depending on whether or not the data is stored in the four holding ball storage areas 700, and outputs a high level signal when there is no holding ball. When there is a holding ball, a low level signal is output. The touch sensor 1001 outputs a low level signal when the player is touching the game ball launch handle, and outputs a high level signal when the player releases the hand from the game ball launch handle. Is output.

  On the other hand, the sub control device 262 receives the command transmitted from the main control device 261 and analyzes the content of the received command, and causes the speaker 810 to ring when the received command is a notification command. A sound output control unit 1005 that performs sound output control.

  Next, the notification process will be described with reference to FIGS. 40 and 41. FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing the notification process 1, and FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing the notification process 2. The notification process 1 in FIG. 40 is a process performed in the main control apparatus 261, and the notification process 2 in FIG. 41 is a process performed in the sub-control apparatus 262.

  With reference to FIG. 40, the notification process 1 performed in the main controller 261 will be described. First, it is determined whether or not the player has released his / her hand from the game ball launch handle (step S2000). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the output from the touch sensor 1001 has changed to a high level. When the output from the touch sensor 1001 becomes a high level, it is determined that the player has released his / her hand from the game ball launching handle, and the process moves to step S2001, where it is determined whether or not there is no reserved ball. The determination as to whether or not there is a holding ball is made based on whether or not the output from the holding ball presence / absence determination unit 1000 has changed to a high level. If there is no holding ball (S2001: Yes), it is determined whether or not the sudden hit state with sudden probability change is in accordance with the logical value of the sudden probability change hit state flag F10 (S2002). When the sudden probability change state flag F10 is the logic “1”, since the sudden change state with sudden probability change is in progress, the process proceeds to step S2003, a notification command is generated, and this notification command is transmitted to the sub-control device 262. Thereafter, the process ends. If the player has not released his / her hand from the game ball launching handle in step S2000 (S2000: No), if the player has a holding ball in step S2001 (S2001: No), or if the player is not in a sudden hit state with probable change in step S2002. (S2002: No) ends the processing.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 41, the notification process 2 performed in the sub-control device 262 will be described. It is determined whether a notification command has been input (S2010). That is, when receiving a command from the main control device 261, the command analysis unit 1004 analyzes the contents. When the received command is a notification command, the command analysis unit 1004 gives the notification command to the sound output control unit 1005. As a result, the process moves to step S2011, and the squeaker ringing process is executed. That is, the sound output control unit 1005 outputs an audio signal corresponding to the notification command to the speaker 810, and thereby outputs the audio indicating that the sbeaker 810 is suddenly in the big hit state with probability change. If the received command is not a notification command in step S2010, processing corresponding to the command is executed (S2012).

  In this way, the sudden hit state is suddenly changed from the speaker when the conditions of “there is no holding ball for lottery lottery” and “the player releases his hand from the game ball launching handle” are satisfied only during the sudden hit state. Is notified. As a result, the player who has once left the gaming machine returns to the gaming machine and resumes the game, so that it is possible to suddenly enjoy the benefit of the probable hit state.

  In addition, the conditions for the notification are not limited to this, and for example, notification may be made when a predetermined number (for example, 50 times) of the decorative pattern fluctuates after a sudden probability change state. Further, whether to notify or not may be determined by lottery.

[Fourth form]
Here, based on FIGS. 42 to 46, the control of the game ball in the jackpot non-notification mode, the normal time and the notification mode will be described. 42 is a front view of the main part of the third embodiment, FIG. 43 is a plan view of the windmill rotating mechanism used in the third embodiment, FIG. 44 is a front view of the main part of the third embodiment, and FIG. 45 is the third embodiment. FIG. 46 is a main part front view showing a modification of the third embodiment.
This control of the game ball is obtained by the fact that the benefits that were originally enjoyed when the probability changed, for example, winnings due to the operation of the opening / closing blades cannot be operated as a result of introducing the normal process of the variable winning device 32. It is to be able to enjoy it in another form without the player noticing it. In other words, the disadvantage of the player in the second form is compensated.

  Accordingly, a lottery means (corresponding to the jackpot random number counter C1 and jackpot symbol counter C2) in which a lottery with a probability variation jackpot, a regular jackpot, and a miss is executed in response to the winning of a game ball at the start port 32, A configuration comprising a display device 42 for displaying a lottery result by the lottery means, a jackpot with probability variation and a main jackpot that is opened when the normal jackpot is reached, and the display at the time of jackpot with probability variation As a display mode displayed by the device 42, from a jackpot notification mode for notifying the player that it is a jackpot state with probability variation, and a jackpot non-notification mode that does not notify the player that the jackpot state with probability variation is described above At the same time, as the above-mentioned big winning opening, only when it becomes the above-mentioned jackpot non-notification mode, a secondary big winning opening 4 in which a game ball can enter for a very short time. 1, the configuration of the sub-main winning opening 401 and a main winning opening 400 which controls the function as the excluding special winning opening when it is operating so as to be ball entrance does not particularly alternative.

  Here, as shown in FIGS. 42 to 45, a wave-like stage 460 is provided above the start opening, and a windmill 461 is provided below the stage 460, and the start opening, here Then, a windmill control mechanism 462 including a windmill 464 that prevents the game ball from entering the upper start port 32a in a normal state and guides the game ball to enter the ball in the non-notification mode with probability variation jackpot. It is provided. The wavy stage 460 is provided with concave portions 463 for guiding the game ball on the wave bottoms on both sides of the center of the wavy center.

  Further, the windmill control mechanism 462 has a support shaft 464A of the windmill 464 (relative to the windmill 464 and the support shaft 464A) on the virtual extension line 470 at the center of the recess 463 and on the lateral side of the upper start port 32a. In a normal state, the front end side of the support shaft 464A is inclined and displaced in a direction approaching the starter port 32a (see FIG. 44), and the game ball enters the starter port 32a. In the non-announcement mode, the ball is restrained, and the tip end side of the support shaft 464A is inclined and displaced in the direction away from the starting port (see FIG. 42), thereby promoting the entry of the game ball.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 43 and 45, the windmill control mechanism 462 includes a solenoid 465 for inclining the winder 464. The solenoid 465 causes the support shaft 464A to be centered. It is rotated around an axis X1 that goes straight and is parallel to the surface of the game board 30. In these drawings, the inclination of the support shaft 464A is drawn largely to help understand the explanation, but in reality, it is 20 ° or less.

  Furthermore, the relationship between the concave portion 463 of the wavy stage 460 and the windmill control mechanism 462 is arranged such that the rotational axis of the windmill 464 is on a virtual extension line at the center of the concave portion. As described above, since the jackpot non-notification mode for guiding the winning to the start port 32a and the other mode for suppressing the winning are operated to be inclined and displaced to at least two positions, the windmill 464 in FIG. The rotation axis is shifted from the imaginary line extension to the left and right outer sides in the front view shown in FIG. 42 and to the left and right inner sides shown in FIG.

Further, the windmill control mechanism 462 is provided at a predetermined interval on the lateral side of the life nail 465 of the start port 32a so that the game balls guided by the windmill 464 enter the start port with higher probability. Guide nails 466.
Although only one guide nail 466 is disposed in the above description, the position of the wind turbine 464 is more than that of the life nail 465 of the start port 32a due to the positional relationship of the wind turbine 464, for example, as shown in FIG. If they are far apart, a plurality of (for example, 4, 5) guide nails 466 may be arranged continuously and at a predetermined interval so that more reliable guidance can be performed.
42, 44, and 46, 441 and 442 respectively indicate a warp inlet and a warp outlet of the warp passage 440A.

(Function)
As described above, by using the wave-like stage having the existing game board surface structure and arranging the windmill control mechanism 462 below it, when the big hit non-notification mode is output by the lottery means C2, the result is received. The solenoid 465 is actuated, and the support shaft 464A of the windmill 464 tilts the windmill 464 (arranged on the right side in a front view) to the right as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, the game ball that is displaced outward from the center of the recess 463 and dropped while being guided along the center line from the upper recess 463 is surely left of the rotation axis in the front view of the windmill 464. The wind turbine 464 is rotated counterclockwise and guided toward the start port 32a.

At this time, the game ball that has left the windmill 464 collides with the guide nail 466 provided below the windmill 464, and is thereby more reliably guided between the life nails 465 of the start port 32a.
In normal times, as shown in FIG. 45, the wind turbine 464 (located on the right side in the front view) has the axis of the support shaft 464A directed inward from the center line of the upper recess 463. As shown in FIG. 44, the game ball that has been tilted from the upper side collides with the right half side in front view of the windmill 464, and guides the game ball to the outside of the right rotation of the windmill 464. During normal times, it is possible to prevent a winning with a high probability of abnormality in the starting port 32a. Thus, while the progress of the jackpot non-notification mode can be made secretly, the profit to be received by the jackpot can be reduced by increasing the winning rate to the start port 32a.
(Other matters)
(1) In the first to fourth embodiments, the game machine having the sudden probability variation function and the normal probability variation function that is not sudden has been described. However, the game machine having only the sudden probability variation function is also described above. The form of can be applied. Moreover, it replaces with a sudden probability fluctuation function and the said 1st-4th form is applicable also to the game machine which has a sudden time shortening function. Furthermore, the first to fourth embodiments can be applied to a gaming machine having a sudden probability variation function and a sudden time shortening function. Note that the sudden time shortening function may have only the sudden time shortening function as in the case of the sudden probability variation function, and the sudden time shortening function and the normal time shortening function that is not sudden. May be included.
(2) In the first to fourth embodiments described above, only one accessory item (second variable winning device and one or more effect moving parts) is provided on the board surface. May be. With this configuration, the number of points that the player pays attention increases, and the player is less likely to realize that the player has shifted to the second special game (such as a sudden probability change state or a sudden short time state).

  The present invention has a probability variation function or a time shortening function as a gaming machine, and is a wide range of inventions that can be appropriately applied as long as it has a general winning opening and a main winning opening.

32: Start opening 42: Decorative symbol display device 400: Main prize winning opening (first variable winning apparatus)
401: Sub-large winning opening (second variable winning device)
C1: jackpot random number counter C2: jackpot symbol counter 452: subsidiary character

Claims (1)

Special game state lottery means for deciding whether or not to shift to any of the special game states that are more advantageous to the player than the normal game, triggered by the game ball entering the starting port,
Special game state type lottery means for determining the type of the above-mentioned special game state triggered by the game ball entering the starting port,
A variable winning device having a winning movable portion that allows the game ball to be entered by operating the opening to be openable and closable when the special gaming state is reached;
And having
As one of the special games executed during the plurality of types of special game states, at least a variable winning device that is closed during a normal game by the operation of the winning movable unit can predict a plurality of balls. The first special game that is released for a predetermined time and the variable winning device that is closed during the normal game by the operation of the winning movable part can enter at least one game ball and is longer than the first predetermined time. A second special game that is opened for a short second predetermined time,
The special game state lottery means decides to shift to the special game state, and the special game state type lottery means decides that it will be given a value more advantageous than the normal game after the end of any special game. In a gaming machine having a gaming mode in which at least a second special game is executed and a transition is made to a gaming state in which an advantageous value is given thereafter,
As the variable winning device, a first variable winning device used in the first special game and a second variable winning device used in the second special game are provided,
A gaming machine, wherein one or more effect movable parts are provided to make it difficult to recognize the presence of the second variable winning device.

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