JP2011156157A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To generate a "winning game without dispensing ball" in a suitable manner. <P>SOLUTION: The game machine prohibits determination of a small hit when the game state of a game machine, if a big hit is not determined, is in a high probability state that starts a probability variable function, or in the high probability state and also in an open-time extended state of opening a start chucker for a longer time than normal. That is, a small hit game out of the " winning game without dispensing ball" is prohibited in the probability variable function is in operation in which a player expects dispensing of balls, and the small hit game out of the " winning game without dispensing ball" is permitted when the probability variable function is not in operation. Consequently, since the small hit game out of the "winning game without dispensing ball" can be carried out according to the game state of the game machine, the "winning game without dispensing ball" can be generated in the suitable manner. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

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

  Conventionally, a pachinko gaming machine has a probability variation function that improves the probability that a special symbol stops and displays with a combination of jackpot symbols after the jackpot game ends when the special symbol is a probabilistic jackpot symbol among the combinations of jackpot symbols There are many things.

  This type of gaming machine has a gameability that shifts to a state (probability change state) in which the probability variation function is activated after a big hit game (for example, 2R big hit game) in which the opening time of the big prize opening is short. There is a game with a gameability called “sudden probability change”. Furthermore, in addition to the jackpot game that creates a “sudden probability change” (for example, 2R probability change big hit game), a small hit game that opens and closes the big prize opening in the same manner as the big hit game is provided, and after the small hit game ends Some of them have game characteristics that maintain the operation state of the probability variation function at the state at the start of the small hit game. In this case, if the probability variation function is not activated at the start of the small hit game, the probability variation function does not operate even after the end of the small hit game.

  In a game machine equipped with a big hit game and a small hit game in which the opening time of such a big winning opening is short, if the winning game occurs when the probability variation function is not activated (normal game), the player Therefore, it is difficult to determine whether or not the probability variation function is activated after the winning game, and as a result, the player can have a sense of expectation for the operation of the probability variation function (for example, patents). Reference 1).

JP 2006-1116016 A

  The big hit games and the small hit games that have a short opening time as described above are often “per game without pay-out”, with virtually no payout of prize balls. Even if a ball is paid out, the prize ball amount is extremely small, so that the value is low for the player. In addition, if the player is informed that the probability variation function is activated by the effect display during the big hit or during the big hit game, the player recognizes that the probability variation function is activated after the big hit game is over. Therefore, it is meaningless to generate a small hit game for making it difficult to determine the operating state of the probability variation function under such circumstances, and the occurrence of the small hit game under such circumstances is There is a problem of bothering you.

  Here, in a gaming machine having a priority variation function that has two special symbols and displays one special symbol in a preferential manner over the other special symbol, when one special symbol is variably displayed, the other There is a gaming machine in which the occurrence rate of the small hit game is set lower than in the case where the special symbol is variably displayed. In this type of gaming machine, in a gaming state that is advantageous to the player, such as a state in which the probability variation function is activated, the execution frequency of the variation display of one special symbol in which the occurrence rate of the small hit game is set low is set to the other special By performing a game control (for example, special symbol variation time reduction control, start opening extension time control, etc.) that is higher than the symbol variation display execution frequency, a small hit game in a gaming state advantageous to the player is performed. Occurrence can be suppressed.

  However, in such a gaming machine, in order to suppress the occurrence of a small hit game, it is necessary to advance the game so that the fluctuation display of one special symbol is continuously generated without interruption, There is a possibility of giving psychological stress to the player in proceeding with the game. In particular, in a gaming state that is advantageous to the player, such as when the probability variation function is activated, it is severe for the player to carry the game with such stress.

  Therefore, in view of the above points, the present invention has an object to generate a hit game having a low value for a player such as “game without hitting” in a suitable manner.

  In order to achieve the above object, in the present invention, a big hit determination means for executing a big hit determination for determining whether or not a big hit is triggered when a game ball enters the start port, and the determination result of the big hit determination is a big hit In this case, the big hit setting means for setting either the first big hit or the second big hit as the big hit, and the first winning opening is opened according to the first opening time when the first big hit is set by the big hit setting means. A jackpot game execution including a jackpot game including a jackpot game and a second jackpot game that opens the jackpot according to a second opening time shorter than the first opening time when the second jackpot is set by the jackpot setting means. Means, a probability variation means for changing the gaming state after the jackpot game is finished to a high probability state in which the probability of winning the jackpot in the jackpot determination is changed with a high probability, and the determination result of the jackpot determination is large. If the determination result of the small hit determination is a small hit, the big winning opening is the same as that of the second big hit game. Small hit game execution means for executing a small hit game that opens and closes in a manner, and a small hit determination that prohibits the execution of the small hit determination when the gaming state when it is determined that the big hit determination is not a big hit is a high probability state The first feature is that the prohibiting means is provided.

  According to the first feature of the present invention, when the gaming state of the gaming machine when it is determined that the big hit determination is not a big hit is a high probability state (during the operation of the probability variation function), the small hit determination is executed. Is prohibited. In other words, when the probability variation function is activated, the occurrence of a small hit game having a low value for the player is prohibited, and when the probability variation function is not activated, the occurrence of a small hit game is permitted. Depending on the state, a “small hit game” can be generated in a suitable manner.

  Furthermore, in the present invention, since it is configured to generate a small hit game according to the gaming state, in order to suppress the occurrence of a small hit game as in conventional gaming machines, two special symbols are provided, Since there is no need to provide a priority variation function for preferentially variably displaying one of the two special symbols, the “small hit game” is generated in a suitable manner while suppressing the complexity of the control processing in the gaming machine. be able to.

  Further, in the present invention, the start port is configured to be switchable between a closed state in which entry of game balls is difficult and an open state in which game balls can easily enter, and the opening time of the start port is set to normal time and normal time. A start opening time setting means for setting any of the longer extended times, and the small hit determination prohibiting means is a high probability state when the gaming state is determined not to be a big hit by the big hit determination, and The second feature is that execution of the small hit determination is prohibited when the opening time of the start port is in the extended open time state set to the extended time.

  Here, the opening time in which the gaming state of the gaming machine when it is determined not to be a big hit by the big hit determination is a high probability state, and the opening time of the start port is extended from the set time (normal time) at the normal time In the extended state, the player's expectation for a large amount of prize ball payout due to the occurrence of the big hit game increases. For this reason, the occurrence of a small hit game in a gaming state that is in a high probability state and in an extended opening time state may be extremely troublesome for the player.

  However, according to the second feature of the present invention, if the gaming state of the gaming machine when it is determined that the big hit determination is not a big hit is a high probability state and the open time extended state, the small hit determination Therefore, the “small hit game” can be generated in a more appropriate manner.

  Further, in the present invention, when the gaming state when the big hit determination is determined to be a big hit is a high probability state and the open time extended state, the second big hit is set as the big hit by the big hit setting means. A third feature is that a second jackpot setting prohibiting means for prohibiting this is provided.

  According to this, when the gaming state of the gaming machine determined to be a big hit by the big hit determination is a high probability state and the open time extended state (the open time extended function is in operation), It is prohibited to set the second jackpot with a shorter opening time of the big winning opening than the first jackpot. For this reason, when the probability variation function and the open time extension function are operating, the “second big hit game”, which is a hit game having a low value for the player, does not occur.

  Thereby, it is possible to realize a gameability advantageous to the player such that the “second big hit game” is not generated in addition to the “small hit game” during the operation of the probability variation function and the open time extension function. In addition, by generating the “small hit game” and the “second big hit game” in an appropriate manner, it is possible to expect an improvement in the game interest of the player.

  In the present invention, in addition to the “small hit determination prohibiting means” included in the first feature described above, the fourth feature is provided with the following configuration. That is, the start port is configured to be switchable between a closed state in which it is difficult to enter a game ball and an open state in which the game ball can be easily input, and the opening time of the start port is extended longer than the normal time and the normal time. It has a start opening time setting means to set one of the time, the gaming state when it is determined to be a big hit by the big hit determination is a high probability state, and the opening time of the start opening is set to the extended time According to a fourth feature of the present invention, there is provided second big hit setting prohibiting means for prohibiting the second big hit from being set as a big hit by the big hit setting means in the extended open time state.

  According to this, execution of the small hit determination is prohibited when the gaming state of the gaming machine when it is determined that the big hit is not a big hit is a high probability state. Further, in addition to prohibiting the execution of the small hit determination when the gaming state of the gaming machine when it is determined that the big hit determination is not a big hit is a high probability state and the open time extended state, the second big hit is It is prohibited to be set.

  As a result, “small hit game” does not occur during the operation of the probability variation function, and “second big hit game” in addition to “small hit game” during the operation of the probability variation function and the open time extension function. In this way, it is possible to realize a playability advantageous to the player, and to generate “small hit game” and “second big hit game” in a more appropriate manner in this way, We can expect improvement.

  According to the present invention, a hit game having a low value for a player can be generated in a suitable manner.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment to which the present invention is applied. It is a front view of a game board. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of an electronic controller. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a main job. It is a flowchart which shows the first half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the second half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows a start opening prize process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol fluctuation | variation display process. It is a flowchart which shows a hit game process. It is a flowchart which shows a process at the time of completion | finish of a hit game. It is a flowchart which shows the hit game process which concerns on 2nd Example. It is a flowchart which shows the hit game process which concerns on 3rd Example. It is explanatory drawing explaining the jackpot symbol determination table which concerns on 3rd Example. It is a flowchart which shows the process at the time of completion | finish of the hit game which concerns on 3rd Example.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  The normal symbol display part 51 is comprised from one LED, and a normal symbol is displayed by this LED. In the normal symbol display unit 51, the normal symbol variation display and stop display are performed. In the normal symbol display unit 51, the normal symbol starts to change when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27, and after a predetermined time has passed, the normal symbol hits and stops display in the normal symbol display mode or the dismissed normal symbol display mode. Is done. Then, when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the preset normal symbol display mode, the second start port 28b is opened for a predetermined time (for example, 0.1 second).

  In the present embodiment, a random number for determining whether or not a normal symbol is provided is prepared. This random number for determining whether or not a normal symbol is used determines whether or not the second starting port 28b is activated when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27. This is used to determine whether or not a normal symbol is appropriate. The normal symbol success / failure random number is set in advance with a hit value, and the normal symbol success / failure determination random number acquired at the timing when the game ball passes the normal symbol operation gate 27 matches the win value. Determined. When it is determined to be a winning, the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display unit 51 is determined as the display mode of the winning normal symbol. On the other hand, when it is determined to be out (when the acquired normal symbol success / failure random number does not match the winning value), the normal symbol stopped and displayed in the normal symbol display unit 51 is determined as the display mode of the out of normal symbol. Is done. Note that the determination of whether or not the normal symbol is correct and the determination of the stop symbol of the normal symbol are performed by the main control unit 200 described later.

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

  Next, the special symbol will be described. The special symbol display unit 61 is composed of seven LEDs, and special symbols are displayed by these LEDs. Each LED constituting the special symbol display unit 61 can be turned on and off, and a plurality of special symbol display modes can be displayed by a combination of turning on and off the LEDs. And among the special symbol combinations displayed by the seven LEDs, a specific combination is set as a hit special symbol (big hit symbol or small hit symbol), and the symbols other than the hit special symbol come off and the special symbol (out symbol) Is set. In this embodiment, the special symbol variation display is performed by blinking display in which each LED is repeatedly turned on and off. In this embodiment, a plurality of jackpot symbols are set. Specifically, as described later, “first probability variable jackpot symbol”, “second probability variable jackpot symbol”, and “normal jackpot symbol” are set. Has been.

  In the special symbol display unit 61, the special symbol starts to change when the game ball enters the starting port 28 (the starting port 28a or the starting port 28b), and after a predetermined time, the special symbol is a big hit symbol, a small hit symbol, and Stopped and displayed with one of the off symbols. In the present embodiment, a special symbol success / failure determination random number that is acquired when a game ball enters the start port 28 and is used for special symbol success / failure determination (big hit determination) as to whether or not to execute a big hit game (special game). Is provided. Furthermore, a special symbol determining random number for determining a stop symbol of the special symbol is provided.

  As the game ball enters the start port 28, a special symbol success / failure determination random number and a special symbol determination random number (per symbol determination random number) are acquired, and the acquired special symbol success / failure determination random number and special symbol are acquired. The random number for determination is stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200.

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

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

  The special symbol success / failure determination random number is set with a winning value for winning / failure determination, and the special symbol success / failure determination random number acquired at the timing when the game ball enters the start port 28 matches the winning value. A big hit is determined. The special symbol success / failure determination (big hit determination) is performed when the special symbol starts variable display. When the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit (when the special symbol success / failure determination random number coincides with the winning value), the special symbol stopped and displayed in the special symbol display unit 61 is the jackpot symbol (probability big hit). Symbol or normal jackpot symbol). The type of special symbol jackpot symbol is determined based on a special symbol determining random number (a winning symbol determining random number) and a jackpot symbol determining table.

  Here, in the present embodiment, when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination (big hit determination) is not a big hit (when the special symbol success / failure random numbers do not match as the winning value), the small value is determined based on the current game mode. “Small hit prohibition determination” is performed as to whether or not execution of the hit determination is prohibited. The small hit prohibition determination will be described later.

  If the small hit prohibition determination is not a result of prohibiting execution of the small hit determination, a small hit determination is performed to determine whether or not to generate a small hit game. When the result of the small hit determination is a small hit (when winning a small hit), the special symbol that is stopped and displayed by the special symbol display unit 61 is determined as the small hit symbol.

  On the other hand, if the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is not a big hit (losing to the big hit lottery) and the result of the small hit determination is not a big hit (losing to the small hit lottery), and the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is not a big hit And, if the result of the small hit prohibition determination prohibits the execution of the small hit determination, it is a failure, and the special symbol that is stopped and displayed in the special symbol display unit 61 is determined as the lost symbol.

  The above-described special symbol success / failure determination (big hit determination), big hit symbol setting, and small hit determination are configured to be performed by a main control unit 200 described later. Therefore, the main control unit 200 corresponds to the big hit determining means, the big hit setting means, and the small hit determining means of the present invention.

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

  A plurality of special symbol variation pattern tables are prepared, and are selected and used according to the gaming state. These multiple variation pattern tables include a big hit variation pattern table selected when the special symbol success / failure determination result is a big hit, a small hit variation pattern table selected when the small hit determination result is a small hit, When the determination result is out of place, an out-of-range variation pattern table is included. The deviation variation pattern table includes a reach variation variation pattern table selected when the reach effect is accompanied, a reachless variation pattern table selected when the reach effect is not accompanied, and the like.

  Next, the big hit game which is one aspect of the special game (win game) will be described. When the special symbol stopped and displayed in the special symbol display unit 61 is the above-mentioned jackpot special symbol (when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit), the main control unit 200 is relatively advantageous to the player. Start the big hit game. Therefore, the main control unit 200 corresponds to the jackpot game execution means of the present invention.

  The jackpot game is started by setting the jackpot game flag to ON. In addition, the jackpot game gives a profit (prize ball) to the player with respect to entering the game ball into the big prize opening 33a by operating the big prize device 33, in other words, by opening and closing the big prize opening 33a a plurality of times. To do. The big hit game is realized by repeatedly executing a hit game process described later.

  During the big hit game, the big prize device 33 is operated, and a predetermined number of prize balls (for example, 15 prize balls for one prize) according to the number of game balls entered into the big prize opening 33a. Will be paid out. Specifically, at the start of the big hit game, the big prize opening device (special electric accessory) 33 is continuously operated, and the big prize opening opening / closing operation for switching the big prize opening 33a between the open state and the closed state is continuously performed a plurality of times. Done. With the start of the operation of the special winning device 33, the special winning opening 33a is opened. This open state is ended when a predetermined end condition is established, and the open special winning opening 33a is closed. As a predetermined termination condition, when the opening time of the grand prize opening 33a has reached a specified time, or the number of game balls that have entered the open big prize opening 33a has reached a predetermined number (10 in this embodiment). It can be when.

  When it is assumed that one round is from the start to the end of the open state of the big winning opening 33a, the big hit game is ended by performing a predetermined number of rounds. In the grand prize winning device 33, after the opening of the big prize winning opening 33a ends, that is, after a predetermined time has passed since the big winning prize opening 33a is closed, the big winning prize opening 33a is again opened and the next round starts. . The opening / closing operation of the grand prize winning opening 33a in which one round is from the start to the end of the big winning opening 33a is continuously repeated until the predetermined maximum number of continuous rounds is completed.

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, two types of jackpot games are provided according to the type of jackpot symbol. Specifically, when the jackpot symbol is the first jackpot symbol (“first positive variation jackpot symbol” or “normal jackpot symbol”), the “first jackpot game” is generated. When the big hit symbol is the second probability variable big hit symbol, the “second big hit game” is generated. Note that the second big hit game constitutes a specific hit game together with a small hit game described later.

  These first and second big hit games differ in the opening time (specified time) of the big winning opening 33a for one round. As for the opening time (first opening time) of the first winning game 33a for the first jackpot game, the possibility of executing a specified number (10) of balls to the big winning port 33a and the payout of the winning ball accompanying therewith becomes extremely high. The time is set, and is preferably 25 to 30 seconds. In this embodiment, the time is set to 26 seconds. The opening time (second opening time) of the big winning opening 33a of the second big hit game is extremely low in the possibility of executing a prescribed number (10) of entering the big winning opening 33a and paying out the winning balls associated therewith. The time is set, and is preferably 0.1 to 6 seconds. In this embodiment, the time is set to 0.2 seconds. In the present embodiment, the maximum continuation round number of the first jackpot game is set to 15 rounds, and the maximum continuation round number of the second jackpot game is set to 2 rounds. Based on the number of rounds of the first big hit game and the second big hit game, the “first probability variation big hit” is also called “15R probability variation big hit”, the “normal big hit” is also called “15R normal big hit”, "Big hit" is also called "2R probability variation big hit".

  In the present embodiment, a round effect (a jackpot game effect) is performed during a round game of the jackpot game. In the round effect (big hit game effect), an effect corresponding to the type of the big hit is performed based on a predetermined round effect pattern. The setting of the effect pattern of the round effect and the execution of the round effect are realized by the control of the sub-control unit 260 described later.

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

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

  If the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit and the stop symbol of the special symbol is determined to be the first probability variable big hit symbol or the second probability variable big hit symbol (in the case of the first probability variable big hit or the second probability variable big hit), the first After the big hit game or the second big hit game is finished, the probability variation function starts to operate, and the probability variation game is started. The probability variation game is realized by the control of the main control unit 200. In this probability variation game, the probability variation function that changes (improves) the probability of the special symbol success / failure determination, that is, the probability that the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the jackpot symbol. Operates. A gaming state in which the probability variation function is activated in this way is also referred to as a “high probability state”. The probability variation function operates with the variation time shortening function and the open time extension function (probability variation state), and when the variation time shortening function and the release time extension function operate in the non-operation state (latency probability variation state). There is.

  While the probability variation function is in operation, the probability that the special symbol success / failure determination is increased increases the probability that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit. Specifically, a normal probability (low probability) success / failure determination table and a high probability success / failure determination table in which the hit value is increased from the normal probability success / failure determination table are prepared. During normal games (when the probability variation function is inactive), the normal probability determination table is used to determine whether or not, and during probability change games (when the probability variation function is in operation), a high probability determination table is used. Make a pass / fail decision.

  The probability variation function operates after the jackpot game is over until the next jackpot game is started. In this embodiment, the maximum execution period of the probability variation game is set until the number of fluctuations of the special symbol after the big hit game reaches 10,000 times until the next big hit game is substantially started. . The fluctuation time shortening function, the opening time extension function, and the probability fluctuation function are realized by the control of the main control unit 200, and the main control unit 200 constitutes the start port opening time setting means and the probability fluctuation means. Yes.

  If the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit and the stop symbol of the special symbol is determined to be the second probability variable big hit symbol (in the case of the second probability variable big hit), the second big hit game starts (the second probability variable big hit symbol is The operating state of the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function when the stop is displayed is maintained. That is, when the variation time shortening function and the opening time extension function are activated at the start of the second big hit game, the variation time shortening function and the opening time extension function are activated even after the second big hit game is finished. On the other hand, when the variation time shortening function and the opening time extension function are not activated at the start of the second big hit game, the variation time shortening function and the opening time extension function are not activated even after the second big hit game is finished.

  Here, the game mode (game state) after the end of the winning game (big hit game and small hit game) is distinguished by the presence / absence of the probability changing function, the changing time shortening function, and the opening time extending function. Specifically, the above-mentioned probability variation function, variation time shortening function, open time extension function all high probability shortening variation mode, probability probability variation function only high probability normal variation of each function There are four game modes: a mode, a low probability shortening variation mode in which an open time extension function and a variation time shortening function are activated, and a low probability normal variation mode in which none of the functions is activated.

  Next, the small hit game will be described. When the special symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 61 is a small hit symbol (when the result of the small hit determination is a small hit), the main control unit 200 starts the small hit game. Therefore, the main control unit 200 corresponds to the small hit game execution means of the present invention.

  The small hit game is a hit game that is started by setting the small hit game flag to ON, and constitutes a specific hit game together with the second big hit game. In the small hit game, the big winning device 33 operates in the same manner as the above-mentioned second probability variation big hit game. In other words, in the small hit game, the large winning opening 33a is configured to be opened twice for 0.2 seconds, and the possibility that a game ball enters the large winning opening 33a is very low, so that the payout of the winning ball is substantially reduced. It is in a gaming state that does not accompany. In addition, after the small hit game ends, the operating state of the open time extension function when the small hit game is generated (when the small hit symbol is stopped and displayed) is maintained. Based on whether or not a prize ball is paid out in a winning game, the “first big hit game” is also called “a game with a given ball”, and the “second big hit game” and the “small hit game” are called “no games per ball”. "

  In the small hit game, since the operation of the second big hit game and the big prize device 33 is the same mode, the player can open and close the big winning opening 33a twice in a short time (a big winning opening opening pattern in the second big hit game) ) Cannot be discriminated whether the second big hit game or the small hit game has occurred. For this reason, it is possible to make it more difficult to recognize whether or not the probability varying function is activated after the operation of the big winning device 33 is finished (after the second big hit game or the small hit game is finished). Thus, the state in which the player has difficulty in recognizing (difficult to determine) that the probability variation function is operating is referred to as “probability non-notification state” or “latent probability variation state (internal probability variation state)”.

  As described above, the second big hit game and the small hit game are “per-no-play games” in which the possibility of a game ball entering the big winning opening 33a is extremely low and substantially no payout of a prize ball is involved. Therefore, it becomes a hit game having a low value for the player. In particular, in a game state in which an open time extension function or the like is operating in addition to the probability variation function (high probability shortening variation mode), if a small hit game frequently occurs, smooth game in a situation advantageous to the player This will hinder the progress, and this may cause a decrease in the player's gaming interest. In addition, there is a problem that the occurrence of the small hit game is not realized with the gameability intended by the game designer.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, if the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is not a big hit (if the lottery is lost in the big hit lottery), and the current game mode (game state) is the high probability shortening variation mode, the small hit determination is made. Is configured to be prohibited from executing.

  Specifically, when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is not a big hit, it is determined whether or not the current game mode is the high probability reduced variation mode, and the result of the determination is the high probability reduced variation mode In addition, it is forcibly removed without performing the small hit determination. Thus, it is determined whether or not the determination of the game mode (determination of whether or not the high-probability reduction variation mode) is performed when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is not a big win prohibits the execution of the small hit determination. The process corresponds to the small hit prohibition determination, and the processing for prohibiting execution of the small hit determination according to the results of the small hit prohibition determination and the small hit prohibition determination is configured to be performed by the main control unit 200 described later. For this reason, the main control unit 200 constitutes the small hit determination prohibiting means of the present invention.

  Next, the effect symbols displayed on the effect display device 25 will be described. In the display area of the effect display device 25, an effect symbol display unit 25a for displaying effect symbols is provided. The effect symbol of the effect symbol display unit 25a is displayed in conjunction with the change display and stop display of the special symbol of the special symbol display unit 61.

  The effect symbol display unit 25a is composed of three symbol display areas including a left symbol display area where a left symbol is displayed, a middle symbol display area where a middle symbol is displayed, and a right symbol display area where a right symbol is displayed. Yes. Each symbol display area has a symbol variation direction set in a direction substantially orthogonal to the arrangement direction of these display areas, in this case, in the vertical direction (vertical direction). Each symbol display area can display symbols consisting of “1” to “9”.

  The effect symbol starts to be displayed when the special symbol starts to be changed. When the special symbol is stopped and displayed in any of the symbols, the effect symbol is stopped and displayed in accordance with the stop symbol of the special symbol. In the production design, a combination of even symbols with the same three digits corresponds to the normal big hit symbol of the special symbol, and a combination of odd symbols with the same three digits corresponds to the first probability variable big hit symbol of the special symbol. ”, Etc., odd numbered orders such as“ 1, 3, 5 ”, and unreachable combinations such as“ 7, 6, 7 ”, etc. A certain chance symbol (so-called chance eye) corresponds to a special symbol of a special symbol (second probability variation big hit symbol, small hit symbol), and a combination of other symbols corresponds to a special symbol outlier symbol.

  The design pattern variation mode (variation pattern) and stop symbol determination are configured to be performed by the sub-control unit 260 based on a variation pattern designation command and a stop information designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200. Here, the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 indicates the variation pattern of the special symbol. Specifically, the variation time of the special symbol and the presence / absence of the reach effect The contents of the production are shown. The main control unit 200 determines a variation pattern of the special symbol at random (by random number lottery) according to the determination result of the special symbol. Then, when the sub-control unit 260 receives a variation pattern designation command indicating the type of variation pattern of the special symbol determined by the main control unit 200, an effect displayed on the effect symbol display unit 25a based on the received command. The effect pattern of the symbol is determined. Further, the stop information designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 indicates a special symbol stop symbol, and the main control unit 200 determines whether the special symbol is determined according to the result of the special symbol determination. A stop symbol is determined at random (by random number lottery). Then, based on the stop information designation command indicating the stop symbol of the special symbol determined by the main control unit 200, the sub control unit 260 determines the stop symbol of the effect symbol to be stopped and displayed on the effect symbol display unit 25a. Then, the display control command indicating the effect pattern and the stop symbol determined by the sub-control unit 260 is transmitted to the effect display control unit 280, and the effect display control unit 280 that receives these commands is the effect display device. 25 (effect symbol display unit 25a) display control (effect symbol variation display and stop display) is executed.

  In the present embodiment, during the period from the start of the display of the effect symbol to the stop display until the stop display, various effects such as a background change effect, a notice effect, and a reach effect are displayed on the display area of the effect display device 25 (the effect symbol display unit 25a). It is configured to perform the symbol variation effect. This “design variation execution pattern” corresponds to the “design pattern presentation pattern determined by the sub-control unit 260 based on the special symbol variation pattern determined by the main control unit 200” described above.

  Then, when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination (big hit determination) in the main control unit 200 is the second big hit or the result of the small hit determination is the small hit, that is, the special symbol effect, that is, the special symbol The symbol variation effect performed when the sub-control unit 260 receives a stop information designation command indicating that the symbol is stopped and displayed with a specific hit symbol (second positive variation big hit symbol, small hit symbol) is common. ing. Then, through the common symbol variation effect, the chance symbol is stopped and displayed on the effect symbol display unit 25a. As a result, for the player, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed at the specific hit symbol through the variable display, the symbol change effect or chance stop display performed on the display area of the effect display device 25 is accompanied. Even if it is confirmed, it is difficult to recognize (understand) whether “second positive variation big hit” or “small hit” has occurred from the contents of the effect display.

  Further, in this embodiment, when “second probability variable big hit” or “small hit” occurs in the low probability normal fluctuation mode or the high probability normal fluctuation mode, a special chance is made after the second probability variable big hit game or small hit game ends. Although it is difficult (impossible) to determine whether or not the winning probability of symbol determination is set to a high probability, a game such as “the probability setting means may set the winning probability to a high probability” A special effect that inspires the user's expectation is executed over a predetermined period on the display area of the effect display device 25 (effect symbol display unit 25a). The execution of the special effect mode is the “probability non-notification state”.

  As described above, it is difficult (impossible) to identify (obtain) whether “second probability variation big hit” or “small hit” has occurred from the contents of the effect display, and further, a specific hit game (second probability variation big hit) By executing a special effect that makes it difficult (impossible) to determine whether or not the current hit probability is set to a high probability after the end of the game (small game), a “probability” is generated. A “non-notification state (latency probability variation state)” can be created. The sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 that execute such effect display control make the big winning device 33 in the same mode (the second mode) in accordance with the execution of the specific hit game (second probability variable big hit game, small hit game). A probability non-notification state generating means is configured together with the main control unit 200 that is operated by a big winning game opening / closing pattern of the big hit game).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  The launch control unit 250 constitutes launch control means for controlling the launch of a game ball on the game board. The launch control board 250a includes a launch motor (not shown), a touch switch 8a, a launch stop switch 8b, and the like. It is connected. The launch motor operates a spear for driving the game ball sent to the launch position into the game area 21, and operates when the player operates the launch handle 8. In addition, a launch volume signal indicating the amount of operation of the launch handle 8 by the player, a touch terminal signal indicating whether or not the player is touching the launch handle 8 and the like are input to the launch control board 250a.

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

  From the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260, various symbol control commands (variation pattern designation command, stop information designation command, symbol stop command, etc.) related to the special symbol variation display, the game progress form after the big hit game is finished A mode designation command for designating a certain variation mode, various lamp control commands, and various audio control commands are transmitted. Various symbol control commands for instructing display control of effect symbols are transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the effect display control unit 280 via the sub-control unit 260. An effect display control unit 280 is connected to the sub control unit 260, and display of effect symbols according to various symbol control commands from the main control unit 200 (from the sub control unit 260 to the effect display control unit 280). Various effect display control commands for instructing effect display control for realizing a symbol variation effect) are simultaneously transmitted.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  Next, the special symbol game process S500 will be described based on the flowcharts of FIGS. First, as shown in FIG. 5A, a start opening winning process is performed (S501). Here, the start opening winning process will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  In the start opening winning process S501, it is determined whether or not the start opening 28 (start opening 28a or start opening 28b) has been won (game ball has entered) (S501a), and it is determined that the start opening 28 has not been won. If (S501a: NO), the process proceeds to S501d. On the other hand, when it is determined that the start opening 28 has been won (S501a: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of special symbol reservations is less than 4 (S501b). As a result, when it is determined that the number of special symbol reservations is not less than 4 (4 or more) (S501b: NO), the process proceeds to S501d and it is determined that the number of special symbol reservations is less than 4. In this case (S501b: YES), a special symbol random number (symbol success / failure determination information) is acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM (S501c). The special symbol random numbers include special symbol success / failure determination random numbers, small hit determination random numbers, special symbol determination random numbers (per symbol determination random numbers), reach random numbers, and the like. Thereby, the number of special symbol reservation increases by one.

  Next, returning to FIG. 5 (a), when the start opening winning process (S501) is completed, it is subsequently determined whether or not a winning game is in progress (whether the big hit game flag or the small hit game flag is ON). Is determined (S502). As a result, when it is determined that a hit game is being played (a big hit game flag or a small hit game flag is ON) (S502: YES), the special symbol game process is terminated and no hit game is being played (a big win game) If it is determined that the flag and the small hit game flag are OFF) (S502: NO), it is further determined whether or not the special symbol is changing (S503).

  As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol is changing (S503: YES), the process proceeds to S508 described later, and when it is determined that the special symbol is not changing (S503: NO). Further, it is determined whether or not it is during the special symbol stop display time (S504). Here, the stop display time of the special symbol is a time for determining the special symbol stopped and displayed. In this embodiment, the stop display time of the special symbol is “1 second”. If it is determined that it is during the special symbol stop display time (S504: YES), the process proceeds to S511 described later, and if it is determined that it is not during the special symbol stop display time (S504). : NO), it is determined whether or not the number of special symbol hold is “zero” (S506). As a result, when it is determined that the number of special symbol hold is “zero” (S506: YES), the special symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of special symbol hold is not “zero” (S506: NO), special symbol variation display processing is performed (S507).

  Here, the special symbol variation display process will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, the random number for determining whether or not the special symbol is stored in the predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (the random number for determining whether or not the game ball has entered the start opening 28) is read (S507a). ), Special symbol winning / failing determination (big hit determination) is performed (S507b). In the special symbol success / failure determination, if the probability variation function is operating (probability change game), the determination of success / failure at the time of probability variation, that is, the determination of success / failure is made in a state where the probability that the determination result is a big hit (high probability state) If it is determined that the probability variation function is not in operation (during normal game), it is determined whether or not there is a non-probability change, that is, whether the determination result is a big hit (low probability state). I do.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the result of the special symbol determination (S507b) is a big hit (S507c). As a result, when it is determined that it is a big hit (S507c: YES), a big hit fluctuation pattern table corresponding to the current game mode is set (S507d). Then, the variable pattern determination random number is acquired, and the special symbol determination random number stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (the special symbol determination random number acquired when the game ball enters the start port 28) Is read (S507e).

  Next, a variation pattern at the time of big hit (big hit variation pattern) and a stop symbol (big hit symbol) are determined (S507f). For the big hit fluctuation pattern, a specific fluctuation pattern is selected from the big hit fluctuation pattern table set in the processing of S507d by using the special symbol fluctuation pattern determining random number acquired in S507e. The jackpot symbol is a first probability variable jackpot symbol, second probability variable jackpot symbol set in the jackpot symbol determination table stored in a predetermined area of the main control unit 200 using the special symbol determination random number read in S507e, Decide on one of the jackpot symbols.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination (S507b) is not a big hit (S507c: NO), it is determined whether or not the current game mode is the high probability shortening variation mode (S507g).

  Here, the high probability shortening variation mode is a game mode in which all of the probability variation flag, variation shortening flag, and release extension flag are turned on, and the probability variation function, variation time shortening function, and release time extension function are activated. The determination in S507g is performed by referring to each flag.

  In the process of S507g, when it is determined that the current game mode is the high probability shortening variation mode (S507g: YES), the process proceeds to the process at the time of departure after S507m. On the other hand, if it is determined that the mode is not the high probability shortening variation mode (S507g: NO), a small hit determination is made as to whether or not a small hit game is to be generated (S507h).

  For this reason, the determination process of S507g prohibits execution of the small hit determination when the current game mode is the high probability shortening variation mode, and the determination is a small hit determination prohibiting means (small hit prohibition determination). Configure. In S507h, the small hit determination is performed by reading out a small random number for determining small hits stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (random number for determining small hits obtained when the game ball enters the start port 28). The random number lottery is performed on the basis of the read small hit determination random number.

  After performing the process of S507h, it is determined whether or not the result of the small hit determination is a small hit (S507i). As a result, when it is determined that the game is a small hit (S507i: YES), the small hit fluctuation pattern table is set (S507j), a fluctuation pattern determining random number is acquired, and the RAM of the main control unit 200 is also stored. The special symbol determining random number stored in the predetermined area is read (S507k).

  Then, a variation pattern at the time of small hit (small hit variation pattern) and a stop symbol (small hit symbol) are determined (S507l). Here, as the small hit variation pattern, a specific variation pattern is selected from the small hit variation pattern table set in the process of S507j using the special symbol variation pattern determination random number acquired in S507k, and the small hit variation pattern is S507k. It is determined using the special symbol determination random number read out in (1).

  As a result of the process of S507i, when it is determined that the position is not a small hit (S507i: NO), the process proceeds to the process at the time of disconnection after S507m. In S507m, it is determined whether or not the current outage is a outage accompanied with a reach effect (out of reach). Whether or not it is a detachment with a reach effect is read by reading the reach random number (reach random number acquired when the game ball enters the start port 28) stored in a predetermined area of the main control unit 200 RAM. Judge based on reach random numbers. When it is determined in the process of S507m that it is out of reach with a reach effect (S507m: YES), a variation pattern table for reach out is set (S507n), and it is determined that it is not out of reach with a reach effect. (S507m: NO), a reach-less deviation pattern table is set (S507o).

  Then, the variation pattern determination random number is acquired, and the special symbol determination random number stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200 is read (S507p), and the variation pattern at the time of disconnection (dislocation variation pattern) and the stop symbol ( The off symbol is determined (S507q). Here, the deviation variation pattern is specified from the reach variation variation pattern table set in S507n or the reach variation variation pattern table set in S507o using the special symbol variation pattern determination random number acquired in S507p. Select the fluctuation pattern. Further, the off symbol is determined using the special symbol determining random number read in S507p.

  Next, according to the stop symbol and the variation pattern determined in any one of the processes of S507f, S507l, and S507q, the special symbol display unit 61 starts the variation display of the special symbol (S507r), and the sub-control unit 260 displays the special symbol. The change pattern designation command and the stop information designation command are transmitted (S507s). The variation pattern designation command is a command for designating the variation pattern of the special symbol determined in any of the processes of S507f, S507l, and S507q, and the special symbol information designation command is also any of S507f, S507l, and S507q. This is a command for designating the stop symbol of the special symbol determined in the process. When this variation pattern designation command and stop information designation command (variation start command) are transmitted to the sub-control unit 260, the symbol variation effect (effect design) under the control of the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 that have received these commands. Display of fluctuation). Then, 1 is subtracted from the number of special symbol reservations (S507t). The processing up to this point is when the special symbol variation display is started.

  Next, returning to FIG. 5A, if it is determined in S503 that the special symbol is changing (S503: YES), whether or not the change display time of the changing special symbol has elapsed. Is determined (S508). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol variation display time has not elapsed (S508: NO), it is determined that the special symbol game processing is terminated and the special symbol variation display time has elapsed. In this case (S508: YES), the special symbol variation display is stopped (S509), and the special symbol stop display time is set (S510). It should be noted that a symbol stop command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 when the variable symbol special display is stopped by the processing of S509.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed (S511). As a result, if it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has not elapsed (S511: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed. If it is determined (S511: YES), it is determined whether or not the stop symbol of the special symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 61 is a winning symbol (big hit symbol or small hit symbol) (FIG. 5B). S512). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol is a winning symbol (S512: YES), the type of the current hit and the current gaming state flag (probability variation flag) are stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200. , Variation time reduction flag, release extension flag) and the like are set (S513).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the winning symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 61 is a small winning symbol (S514). As a result, if it is determined that the winning symbol that is stopped and displayed is not a small symbol (S514: NO), whether or not the symbol that is stopped and displayed is a 2R probability variable large symbol (second probability variable large symbol). It is determined whether or not (S515). As a result, when it is determined that the winning symbol that has been stopped is a 2R probability variation big winning symbol (S515: YES), the 2R big winning hole opening that is the opening pattern of the second big winning game big winning port 33a is opened. When the pattern is set (S516), and it is determined that the hit symbol that is stopped and displayed is not the 2R probability variation big hit symbol (when it is the 15R probability variation big hit symbol or the 15R normal big hit symbol) (S515: NO), the first big hit The 15R special winning opening opening pattern, which is the opening pattern of the gaming special winning opening 33a, is set (S517). Then, the big hit game flag is set to ON (S518). Thereby, the big hit game is started according to the big winning opening opening pattern set in the process of S516 or S517.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is ON (S519). If it is determined that the probability variation flag is ON (S519: YES), the probability variation flag is set to OFF (S520). Transition to processing. On the other hand, if it is determined that the probability variation flag is not ON (S519: NO), the process proceeds to S521 as it is.

  In the process of S521, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON. If it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not ON (S521: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S521: YES), the fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S522), and the release extension flag is further set to OFF (S523). Thereby, with the start of the big hit game, the probability variation function, the variation time shortening function, and the open time extension function stop operating.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in the determination processing of S514 that the winning symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 61 is a small winning symbol (S514: YES), a large winning opening opening pattern for small winning is set. (S524). The small winning big winning opening opening pattern is an opening pattern of the small winning game big winning opening 33a, and is the same as the 2R big winning opening opening pattern set in the process of S516. Thus, when a specific hit game (2R probability variable big hit game, small hit game) occurs, the operation of the big prize opening 33a is performed in a common (same) manner, so that the operation mode of the big prize opening 33a is changed to "2R probability variable big hit". It becomes difficult to identify (understand) which of “small hit” has occurred.

  Then, the small hit game flag is set to ON (S525). Thereby, the small hit game is started in accordance with the big winning opening opening pattern for small hits set in the process of S524.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S526). As a result, when it is determined that the variation shortening flag is not ON (S526: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the variation shortening flag is ON (S526: NO), the variation shortening is performed. The counter is decremented by “1” (S527), and it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening counter has become “zero” (S528). When it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is not “zero” (S528: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is “zero” (S528: YES). ), The process proceeds to S522.

  Next, in the determination process of S512, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 61 is not a winning symbol (big hit symbol or small hit symbol) (in the case of a missed symbol) (S512: NO), it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S529). As a result, if it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not ON (S529: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S529: YES), “1” is subtracted from the fluctuation shortening counter (S530). The fluctuation shortening counter is for monitoring the operating period of the fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function. At the end of the winning game, the type of the big hit symbol that triggered the winning game (the winning game) The predetermined set value is set in the processing of S611f and S611l described later (see FIG. 9) in accordance with the gaming state at the time of occurrence of the game.

  Then, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening counter obtained by subtracting “1” in S530 is “zero” (S531). As a result, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is not “zero” (S531: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is “zero” (S531). : YES), the fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S532), and the open extension flag is set to OFF (S533).

  As a result, the fluctuation time shortening function and the open time extending function stop operating. Then, a mode designation command indicating a fluctuation mode (high probability normal fluctuation mode or low probability normal fluctuation mode) in which the fluctuation time shortening function and the open time extension function do not operate is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S534). Upon receiving this mode designation command, the sub-control unit 260 displays characters, characters, enlightenment, etc. indicating that the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function are inactive (normal state). Process to be displayed.

  Next, the winning game process (S600) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not a winning game is in progress (whether the big hit game flag or the small hit game flag is ON) (S601). As a result, when it is determined that the hit game is not being played (the big hit game flag and the small hit game flag are OFF) (S601: NO), the win game processing is ended and the big hit game is being played (the big hit game flag If it is determined that the small winning game flag is ON) (S601: YES), it is determined whether or not the special winning opening 33a is open (S602). As a result, when it is determined that the special winning opening 33a is being opened (S602: YES), it is determined whether or not the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S603), and the special winning opening 33a is determined. When it is determined that the opening time has not elapsed (S603: NO), it is determined whether or not the specified winning number 33a has been won (whether or not the specified number of game balls have entered). (S604).

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

  If it is determined in the determination process of S602 that the special winning opening 33a is not open (S602: NO), it is determined whether or not a winning game end condition is satisfied (S606). In the determination process of S606, if the first big hit game, the number of rounds of the big hit game has reached the maximum continuous round number of 15 rounds, if the second big hit game, the round number of the big hit game is the maximum continuous round It is determined whether or not the number of rounds 2 has been reached, and whether or not the number of times of opening and closing of the big prize opening 33a has reached 2 in the case of a small hit game.

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

  When it is determined in the determination process of S606 that the winning game end condition is satisfied (S606: YES), a winning game end process is performed (S611). Here, the big hit game end process will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 9, in the winning game end process, first, the winning game flag (big hit game flag or small hit game flag) is set to OFF (S611a). Next, it is determined whether or not the current winning symbol (the winning symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 61) is a big hit symbol (2R probability variable big hit symbol, 15R probability variable big hit symbol, normal big hit symbol) (S611b). . As a result, when it is determined that the current winning symbol is a big hit symbol (S611b: YES), whether or not the big hit symbol is a probability variable big hit symbol (2R probability variable big hit symbol, 15R probability variable big hit symbol) or not. Is determined (S611c). As a result, when it is determined that the current big hit symbol is the probability variation big hit symbol (S611c: YES), the probability variation flag is set to ON (S611d). Thereby, the operation of the probability variation function starts (becomes a high probability state).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the current winning symbol is a 15R probability variation big winning symbol (first certain variation big winning symbol) (S611e). As a result, when it is determined that the current big hit symbol is a 15R probability variation big hit symbol (S611e: YES), the fluctuation shortening counter is set to “10, 000 "(S611f). Further, each of the fluctuation shortening flag and the release extension flag is set to ON (S611g, S611h). As a result, the operation of the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function starts. Then, a mode designation command indicating the current fluctuation mode (probability of fluctuation function, fluctuation time shortening function, opening time extension function is activated) in the main control unit 200 is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S611i). The sub-control unit 260 to which the mode designation command is transmitted determines the current game mode in the main control unit 200 based on the mode designation command, and an effect display (status display) indicating the gaming state according to the result. I do.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the current big hit symbol is not the 15R probability variation big hit symbol (this big hit symbol is the 2R probability variable big hit symbol) (S611e: NO), the current big hit game (the big hit game about to end) ) Is started (when this jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed) whether the game mode is a high probability shortening variation mode in which all of the probability variation function, the variation time shortening function, and the open time extension function are activated. Determination is made (S611j). As a result, when it is determined that the game mode is the high probability shortening variation mode (S611j: YES), the variation shortening counter is set to “10” in order to maintain the operating state of the variation time shortening function and the open time extending function. , 000 "(S611f). Then, each of the fluctuation shortening flag and the release extension flag is set to ON (S611g, S611h), and a mode designation command indicating the fluctuation mode in the current main control unit 200 is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S611i).

  As a result of the determination processing in S611j, when it is determined that the game mode at the time of starting the current jackpot game is not the high probability reduction variation mode (S611j: NO), the current jackpot game (currently about to end) It is determined whether or not the game mode at the time of starting the big hit game is the low probability reduced variation mode in which the variation time shortening function and the open time extension function are activated and the probability variation function is not activated (S611k). As a result, when it is determined that the game mode at the time of starting the current jackpot game (2R probability variable jackpot game) is the low probability shortening variation mode (S611k: YES), the variation time shortening function and the opening time extension function In order to maintain the operating state, the fluctuation shortening counter is set to “100” (S611). Then, each of the fluctuation shortening flag and the release extension flag is set to ON (S611g, S611h), and a mode designation command indicating the fluctuation mode in the current main control unit 200 is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S611i).

  If it is determined in the determination process of S611k that the game mode at the time of starting the 2R big hit game is the low probability shortening variation mode (S611k: YES), the process proceeds to S611f, and the variation shortening counter is set to “10, 000 "may be set. In this case, since the fluctuation time shortening function and the open time extension function are substantially operated until the next big hit occurs, when the fluctuation counter reaches “100”, the current winning game is a probable big hit. The player can be made aware that there is.

  Also, as a result of the determination processing in S611k, when it is determined that the game mode at the time of starting the big hit game is not the low probability shortening variation mode (S611k: NO), the variation shortening counter or the like is not set. Then, a mode designation command indicating the variation mode in the current main control unit 200 is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S611i).

  Next, as a result of the determination process of S611c, when it is determined that the current big hit symbol (the big hit symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 61) is not a probability variation big hit symbol (that is, a normal big hit symbol) ( S611c: NO), after the end of the current jackpot game, until the next jackpot occurs, or until the next symbol is displayed 100 times without the next jackpot, the variable time reduction function and the open time extension function Is set to “100” (S611). Then, each of the fluctuation shortening flag and the release extension flag is set to ON (S611g, S611h), and a mode designation command indicating the fluctuation mode in the current main control unit 200 is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S611i).

  Further, when it is determined as a result of the determination processing of S611b that the current winning symbol (the winning symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 61) is not a big winning symbol (the current winning symbol is a small winning symbol) (S611b: NO), the process proceeds to S611i as it is, and a mode designation command indicating the current variation mode in the main control unit 200 is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260.

  According to the present embodiment described above, when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination (big hit determination) is not big hit, whether or not the current game mode is the high probability reduced fluctuation mode, that is, the probability fluctuation function, the fluctuation time. It is determined whether or not the gaming state (high probability shortening variation mode) in which all of the shortening function and the opening time extending function are activated (see S507g in FIG. 7). Then, as a result of determining whether or not the current game mode is the high probability reduced variation mode, the small hit determination is not performed when the current game mode is the high probability reduced variation mode. In other words, the game state when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination (big hit determination) is not a big hit is a high probability state in which the probability variation function is activated, and the opening time of the start port 28b is set as the extended time. In the extended state, the execution of the small hit determination is prohibited.

  According to this, when the probability fluctuation function and the open time extension function with high expectation for the player's winning (payout) are activated (the current game mode is the high probability reduction fluctuation mode), it is valuable for the player. When a small hit game with a low is prohibited and at least one or both of the probability variation function and the open time extension function are inactive (the current game mode is a mode other than the high probability reduction variation mode), It will be allowed to occur. For this reason, in a game state (game mode) advantageous to the player, a small hit game, which is one aspect of “game without hitting” which is low in value for the player, does not occur, and other game states (game mode) ) Can generate a small hit game, so that a small hit game can be generated in a suitable manner according to the gaming state of the gaming machine.

  Further, in this embodiment, since it is configured to generate a small hit game according to the gaming state of the gaming machine, as in the prior art described in the “problem to be solved by the invention” of this application, In order to suppress the occurrence of "", it is not necessary to provide two special symbols and to preferentially change and display one of the two special symbols, so that the control processing in the gaming machine can be prevented from becoming complicated. .

(Second embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the special symbol variation display process according to the present embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 7 of the first embodiment. In the present embodiment, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described.

  In the first embodiment, when the gaming state when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination (big hit determination) is not big hit is a high probability state and the extended open time state, the small hit determination is not performed. However, the present embodiment is configured such that the small hit determination is not performed when the gaming state when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is not a big hit is a high probability state.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, when it is determined that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is not a big hit (S507c: NO), the current gaming state is a high probability state with the operation of the probability variation function. It is determined whether or not there is (S507g '). That is, in the process of S507g ′, it is determined whether or not the current game mode is the high probability mode (the high probability shortening variation mode or the high probability normal variation mode). Whether or not the high probability mode is set is determined by referring to the probability variation flag.

  As a result of the determination process in S507g ′, when it is determined that the current game mode is the high probability mode (S507g ′: YES), the process proceeds to the process at the time of departure after S507m, and the current game mode is a high probability. When it is determined that the mode is not set (S507g ′: YES), a small hit determination is made as to whether or not to generate a small hit game (S507h).

  For this reason, the determination process of S507g ′ in this embodiment is a small hit prohibition determination for prohibiting the execution of the small hit determination when the current game mode is the high probability mode, and the determination is a small hit determination prohibiting unit. Configure.

  According to the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination (big hit determination) is not a big hit, whether or not the current game mode is the high probability mode, that is, a game in which the probability variation function operates. It is determined whether or not it is in a state (see S507g ′ in FIG. 10). If the current game mode is the high probability mode, the execution of the small hit determination is prohibited.

  According to this, when the probability variation function is activated (high probability state), it is forcibly prohibited to perform the small hit determination whether or not to generate a small hit game regardless of whether or not the open time extension function is activated. Only when the probability variation function is not in operation, the small hit determination is permitted. For this reason, when the probability variation function is activated, the occurrence frequency (number of occurrences) of the hitting operation (game without hitting a ball) in which the special winning opening 33a is opened twice in a short time is reduced compared to when the probability variation function is not activated. It will be. Therefore, even if the player is in a “probability non-notification state (latency probability variation state)” in which it is difficult to recognize whether or not the probability variation function is operating (difficulty in latent probability variation state), By paying attention to the above, it is possible to realize a gameability that makes it easy to estimate whether the probability variation function is activated. In other words, if the frequency of occurrence of “games without balls” decreases after the occurrence of “games without balls” while the player continues to play, the last occurrence of “no balls” The possibility that the “winning game” is “2R probability variable big hit game” increases, and in this case, it can be estimated that the current game mode is likely to be in the “high probability normal variation mode” (high probability state).

  As described above, in the present embodiment, as in the first embodiment, by appropriately generating a small hit game in accordance with the current gaming state, it is possible to provide a game property that makes it easy to estimate whether the state is a high probability state or not. realizable. As a result, it is possible to improve the gaming interest of the gaming machine capable of generating the “probability non-notification state (latency probability variation state)”.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the present embodiment, in the case where the game mode when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination (big hit determination) is the big probability reduction variation mode, in addition to prohibiting the occurrence of the small hit game, the second probability variable big hit game This is different from the first embodiment in that the generation is prohibited. Only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described below.

  In the present embodiment, as the jackpot symbol determination table that is referred to when determining the special symbol stop symbol in the processing of S507f, two tables (big hit symbol determination tables 1 and 2) are provided in a predetermined area of the main control unit 200. It is remembered.

  The jackpot symbol determination table 1 is set as the current jackpot symbol determination table when the game mode at the time of the jackpot occurrence is a mode other than the high probability reduction variation mode, and the jackpot symbol determination table 2 is a game mode at the time of the jackpot occurrence. In the case of the high probability shortening variation mode, it is set as the current jackpot symbol determination table.

  Hereinafter, an example of the jackpot symbol determination tables 1 and 2 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11A is an example of the jackpot symbol determination table 1, and FIG. 11B is an example of the jackpot symbol determination table 2. The jackpot determination random number is a random value consisting of 0 to 9, and different jackpot symbols are associated with each other depending on the random value. For example, in the big hit symbol determination table 1 in FIG. 11A, the first probability variable big hit symbol (15R probability variable big hit symbol) is set for the big hit decision random numbers 0 to 3, and the big hit decision random numbers 4 and 5 are the second probability variable big hit. The symbol (2R probability variation big hit symbol) is set, and the big hit determination random numbers 6 to 9 are set with the normal big hit symbol (15R normal big hit symbol). Thus, in the jackpot symbol determination table 1, all the jackpot symbols such as the first probability variable jackpot symbol, the second probability variable jackpot symbol, and the normal jackpot symbol are associated with the random value.

  Further, for example, in the big hit symbol determination table 2 of FIG. 11 (b), the first big hit decision random numbers 0-5 are set with the first probable big hit symbols (15R positive change big hit symbols), and the big hit decision random numbers 6-9 are usually big hits. A symbol (15R normal big hit symbol) is set. In this way, the big hit symbol determination table 2 is associated with the random hit value for the big hit symbol that generates the “game with hitting ball” such as the first probable big hit symbol and the normal big hit symbol. The second probability variation big hit symbol (2R probability variation big hit symbol) that generates “game” is excluded.

  Therefore, the jackpot symbol determination table 1 can be used as a jackpot symbol determination table that permits the generation of the second probability variable jackpot game (2R probability variable jackpot game), and the jackpot symbol determination table 2 is the second probability variable jackpot game (2R). It can be used as a jackpot symbol determination table for prohibiting the occurrence of probability variation jackpot games. That is, when the jackpot symbol determination table 1 is set as the jackpot symbol determination table, all jackpot games including the second probability variation jackpot game (2R probability variation jackpot game) may occur, but the jackpot symbol determination When the big hit symbol determination table 2 is set as a table, the generation of the second probability variation big hit game (2R probability variation big hit game) is prohibited. The big hit symbol determination table is set by the main control unit 200, and the main control unit 200 corresponds to the second big hit setting prohibiting means of the present invention.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a special symbol variation display process according to the present embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 7 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12, in this embodiment, when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit, after obtaining the variation pattern determination random number and reading the special symbol determination random number (after processing of S507e), It is determined whether or not the current game mode is a high probability shortening variation mode (S507u). As a result, when it is determined that the current game mode is not the high probability shortening variation mode (S507u: NO), the jackpot symbol determination table 1 is set as the jackpot symbol determination table used for determining the current jackpot symbol. (S507v) When it is determined that the game mode is the high probability shortening variation mode (S507u: YES), the jackpot symbol determination table 2 is set as the jackpot symbol determination table (S507w). For this reason, when the game mode is determined to be a big hit in the special symbol win / loss determination, the second probability variable big hit (2R probability variable big hit game) does not occur.

  Then, in the process of S507f, the special symbol set in the jackpot symbol determination table 1 set in the process of S507v or the jackpot symbol determination table 2 set in the process of S507w is set as a stop symbol.

  Next, the process at the end of the winning game according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the process at the end of the winning game according to the present embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 9 of the first embodiment.

  In this embodiment, when the game mode when the hit game is started is the high probability shortening variation mode, either the 15R probability variable big hit (first positive variable big hit) or the 15R normal big hit (normal big hit) is set as the big hit. 2R probability variation big hit (second probability variation big hit) does not occur. Therefore, if the current winning game is the second probability variation big winning game (the special symbol stop symbol is the second certain variation big winning symbol), the game mode when the winning game is started is a mode other than the high probability shortening variation mode. (High probability normal fluctuation mode, low probability shortening fluctuation mode, or low probability normal fluctuation mode).

  For this reason, as shown in FIG. 13, in the process at the end of the hit game of this embodiment, in the determination process of S611e, the current probability variation big winning symbol is not the 15R probability variation large winning symbol (first probability variable large winning symbol) (2R probability varying big winning symbol). ) Is omitted, the process of determining whether or not the high probability shortening variation mode in the process at the end of the hit game in the first embodiment (determination process in S611j in FIG. 9) is omitted, and the current jackpot game is started. It is determined whether or not the current game mode is the low probability shortening variation mode (S611k).

  According to the present embodiment described above, as the jackpot symbol determination table referred to when determining the jackpot symbol of the special symbol, the jackpot symbol determination table 1 that permits the generation of the second probability variable jackpot game, and the second probability variable jackpot A jackpot symbol determination table 2 for prohibiting the occurrence of a game is provided, and if the game mode when the result of the special symbol hit / fail determination is a jackpot is the high probability reduced variation mode, the jackpot symbol determination table 2 is set ( (See S507w in FIG. 12).

  According to this, when the probability fluctuation function and the open time extension function with high expectation for the player's winning (payout) are activated (the current game mode is the high probability reduction fluctuation mode), it is valuable for the player. “Spot-free per game” such as small hit games with low or second probability variable big hit games is prohibited, and at least one or both of the probability variation function and the open time extension function are inactive (the current game mode is highly probable) In the normal variation mode, the low probability shortening variation mode, or the low probability normal variation mode), the generation of “game without hitting a ball” is permitted. In this way, by appropriately generating “game without pitch” according to the current game state, the high probability shortening variation mode, which is a game mode advantageous for the player, is troublesome for the player. “Game” is prevented from being generated, and “game without hitting a ball” can be generated in a more preferable manner.

  Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, a “game with no departure” occurs when the probability variation function and the open time extension function are all activated (in the case of the high probability shortening variation mode) for the player. Since it is possible to provide gameability advantageous to a player who does not, it is possible to expect an improvement in game entertainment.

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

  For example, in the first embodiment, “the execution of the small hit determination is prohibited during the high probability shortening variation mode”, and in the second embodiment “in the high probability mode (the high probability shortening variation mode or the high probability normal variation”). In the third embodiment, the execution of the small hit determination is prohibited and the occurrence of the second probability variable big hit game is prohibited in the high probability shortening variation mode. In addition, “In high probability mode (high probability shortening variation mode or high probability normal variation mode) execution of small hits is prohibited, and in the high probability shortening variation mode, the second probability variable big hit game is not allowed. It is also possible to “prohibit occurrence”.

  In this case, it is possible to obtain a gaming machine that can simultaneously achieve the effects of the second embodiment and the effects of the third embodiment. In other words, if the frequency of occurrence of “games without balls” decreases after the occurrence of “games without balls” while the player continues to play, the current game mode becomes “high probability. Since it can be estimated that there is a high possibility of being in the “normal fluctuation mode” (high probability state), it is possible to realize gameability that makes it easy to estimate whether or not the state is a high probability state. In addition, when the probability variation function and the open time extension function that increase the degree of expectation for the player's winning (payout) are activated (the current game mode is the high probability shortening variation mode), the value is low for the player. Since the occurrence of “games without pitching” such as small hit games and second-probability big hit games is prohibited, the high probability reduced variation mode, which is a game mode advantageous to the players, is annoying “games without balls” Is prevented from occurring.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the second big hit game is set so that the big hit round is less than the first big hit game and the opening time of the big winning opening 33a is shortened. The number of big hit rounds of the big hit game and the first big hit game may be the same, and the second big hit game may be set so that the opening time of the big winning opening 33a is shorter than that of the first big hit game. At this time, in the small hit game, the number of times of opening / closing the big winning opening may be the same as that of the first big winning game and the second big winning game, and the opening time of the big winning opening 33a may be the same as that of the second big winning game.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the gaming machine 1 provided with one kind of special symbol corresponding to the start port 28a and the start port 28b has been described as an example. And a second special symbol corresponding to the start port 28b, and these two types of special symbols are placed in the order in which the game balls enter the start port 28a and the start port 28b (holding occurrence order). ), It may be applied to a gaming machine that displays a variable display.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine, 28 ... Start opening, 33a ... Big winning opening, 200 ... Main control part (Big hit determination means, big hit setting means, big hit game execution means, small hit determination means, small hit game execution means, small hit determination prohibition Means, probability variation means, start opening time setting means, second jackpot setting prohibiting means).

Claims (4)

A jackpot determination means for executing a jackpot determination for determining whether or not a jackpot is triggered when a game ball enters the start opening,
A jackpot setting means for setting either the first jackpot or the second jackpot as the jackpot when the judgment result of the jackpot determination is the jackpot;
When the first big hit is set by the big hit setting means, the first big hit game is opened according to the first opening time when the first big hit is set, and when the second big hit is set by the big hit setting means A jackpot game executing means for executing a jackpot game including a second jackpot game for opening a jackpot according to a second opening time shorter than the first opening time;
A probability changing means for setting the gaming state after the jackpot game has ended to a high probability state in which the probability that the determination result of the jackpot determination is the jackpot is changed with a high probability;
A small hit determination means for executing a small hit determination for determining whether or not a small hit is obtained when the determination result of the big hit determination is not the big hit;
A small hit game execution means for executing a small hit game for opening and closing the big winning opening in the same manner as the second big hit game when the determination result of the small hit determination is the small hit;
A small hit determination prohibiting means for prohibiting execution of the small hit determination when the gaming state when the big hit determination is determined not to be the big hit is the high probability state;
A gaming machine comprising: The start port is configured to be switchable between a closed state where entry of game balls is difficult and an open state where entry of game balls is easy,
A starting port opening time setting means for setting the opening time of the starting port either a normal time or an extended time longer than the normal time;
The small hit determination prohibiting means is an opening time in which the gaming state when the big hit determination is determined not to be the big hit is the high probability state, and the opening time of the start port is set to the extension time 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein execution of the small hit determination is prohibited in an extended state.   When the game state when the big hit determination is determined to be the big hit is the high probability state and the open time extended state, the second big hit is set as the big hit by the big hit setting means. The gaming machine according to claim 2, further comprising second jackpot setting prohibiting means for prohibiting setting. The start port is configured to be switchable between a closed state where entry of game balls is difficult and an open state where entry of game balls is easy,
A starting port opening time setting means for setting the opening time of the starting port either a normal time or an extended time longer than the normal time;
When the game state when the jackpot determination is determined to be the jackpot is the high probability state, and the opening time of the start port is an extension time extension state set to the extension time, 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising second jackpot setting prohibiting means for prohibiting setting of the second jackpot as the jackpot by the jackpot setting means.

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