JP2011172816A - Game machine, presentation method of game machine, and presentation program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine, a presentation method of the game machine, and a presentation program, which are capable of providing impressive presentation to a player during the play and capable of further enhancing the amusement of the play by providing special presentation different from normal presentation according to the convenience of a game machine side when a presentation button is not operated by the player. <P>SOLUTION: A normal ready-to-win presentation image, special ready-to-win presentation images A and B are stored in a storing means 301. A presentation control means 300 makes a first display control means 302 display the normal ready-to-win presentation image in a display means 400 when a control command is output from a main control means 200. A second display control means 303 switches the display to the special ready-to-win image B on receiving the operation from an operating means 500. Meanwhile, when a determining means 304 determines that a prescribed time comes without operation of the operating means 500 by the player, a third display control means 304 switches the display of the normal ready-to-win presentation image to the special ready-to-win presentation image B in the display means 400. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, a gaming machine presentation method, and a presentation program that allow a player to operate a presentation button to improve the interest of the game.

  2. Description of the Related Art Game machines in recent years have a liquid crystal display device, and it has become mainstream to display various moving images and effect images of still images on the liquid crystal display device to enhance the player's game. Generally, in a gaming machine, a lottery is performed by a main control device (main control board) when a game ball enters a starting port (starting area), and a control command of an effect pattern determined based on the lottery is produced. The effect control board is transmitted to the control device (effect control board), and the effect control board causes the image control board or the like that controls the liquid crystal screen of the liquid crystal display device to perform an effect corresponding to the control command. In particular, in recent gaming machines, the production patterns have been diversified by increasing the size of the liquid crystal screen of the liquid crystal display device, mounting various types of objects, and increasing the number of lamps in the lamp device, etc., providing various effects to the players It is devised to do.

Some gaming machines that provide such various performance patterns further include a performance button called a chance button that can be operated by the player to further improve the game performance (for example, Patent Documents). 1). The effect button described in Patent Document 1 has a circular operation surface, and is configured such that the button shines by light emission of a light emitting diode (LED) incorporated in the button, and when it becomes operable during a game. The LED is lit to prompt the player to operate (press).
In a gaming machine equipped with such a production button, by prompting the player to operate the production button during the reach production, the player is made aware that it is being reached and raises the game consciousness. To operate the production buttons.

In addition, when the reach effect is displayed on the liquid crystal display of the liquid crystal display device and the operation of the effect button is enabled, the operation of the effect button is notified (suggested) to prompt the player to operate the effect button. There is also known an effect in which an effect button image resembling an effect button is superimposed on a reach effect on a liquid crystal screen (see, for example, Patent Document 2). In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 2, a jackpot effect is executed when the player operates the effect button, and when the effect button is not operated, the off-effect is once executed. Then, the jackpot transition effect and the jackpot effect are executed.
In this way, when the production button is not operated, by giving the player an effect that seems to be out of play, the player is given the illusion that it will not be a big hit if the production button is not operated, The player is made to actively operate the production buttons.

JP 2004-081603 A JP 2008-228798 A

  However, the moving image and still image effect image displayed when the effect button is operated are positioned as “effect” on the liquid crystal screen, and whether or not the effect button is pressed is determined by a big hit by the main control board. It has nothing to do with game control such as payout of prize balls. Therefore, a player who has seen the effect image when operating the effect button many times, or a player who predicts that a big hit will come soon even without operating the effect button, should operate the effect button. You may think that it is troublesome and do not operate it. In such a case, there has been a problem that the opportunity of providing the effect image provided in the gaming machine in advance in order to improve the interest of the player may be missed.

  The present invention has been made in consideration of such circumstances, and when the player does not operate the effect button, a special effect different from the normal effect is provided on the gaming machine side without permission. Accordingly, it is an object to provide a gaming machine, a gaming machine presentation method, and a presentation program that can provide an impressive presentation to a player who is playing the game and can further enhance the interest of the game.

  In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention performs main control means for outputting a control command, display means for displaying an effect image, and display control of the effect image on the display means in accordance with the control command. A gaming machine comprising effect control means and operation means operable by a player, wherein the effect control means is a notification image for informing a player that the operation of the operation means is in a valid period; The first effect image displayed on the display means according to a predetermined control command, the second effect image displayed on the display means according to the operation of the operation means, and when the operation means is not operated A storage means for storing a third effect image displayed on the display means; and when the predetermined control command is output from the main control means, the display means displays the first effect image. The first display control means for superimposing the notification image on the first effect image, and when the operation means is operated, the notification image by the display means and the first effect image are displayed. A second display control means for ending the display and starting the display of the second effect image, and whether or not the player has not operated the operation means, and whether or not a predetermined timing has been reached. When the determination unit determines that the predetermined timing has been reached without the operation unit being operated by the determination unit, the display of the notification image and the first effect image by the display unit is terminated. And third display control means for starting display of the third effect image.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the gaming machine according to the present invention includes an acquisition unit that acquires information about an operation timing of the operation unit by a player, and the operation by the player based on the information about the operation timing. Prediction means for predicting the operation timing of the means, and the third display control means is a timing earlier than the operation timing predicted by the prediction means in a state where the player does not operate the operation means. The display means ends display of the notification image and the first effect image, and starts displaying the third effect image.

  Furthermore, in order to solve the above-described problem, in the gaming machine according to the present invention, the determination unit determines that the predetermined timing has been reached, and the main control unit outputs the predetermined control command a plurality of times. It is characterized in that it is carried out at any one rate.

  Furthermore, in order to solve the above-described problem, in the gaming machine according to the present invention, the storage unit displays an operation effect image in a mode in which the notification image generated in correspondence with the operation mode of the operation unit is changed. Further, the third display control means stores the predetermined timing when the operation means is operated by a player or when the player does not operate the operation means by the determination means. When it is determined, the display of the notification image by the display unit is terminated and the display of the operation effect image is started.

  Furthermore, in order to solve the above-described problem, in the gaming machine according to the present invention, the third display control unit causes the display unit to display the third effect image in a state where the player does not operate the operation unit. When starting the display, the first display control means uses the third display control means to set the display timing of the notification image to be superimposed on the first effect image displayed on the display means. In a state where the player does not operate the operation means, the display timing of the notification image when the third effect image is not displayed on the display means is different.

  Furthermore, in order to solve the above-mentioned problem, in the gaming machine according to the present invention, the storage means further stores a fourth effect image, and the third display control means is operated by the determination means by the operation means. When it is determined that the predetermined timing has been reached without any operation, the display time of the first effect image displayed by the display means and the third effect image stored in the storage means Display time of the fourth effect image so that the total time of the display time of the fourth effect image and the display time of the fourth effect image is the same as the display time of the effect image displayed on the display means according to the predetermined control command. After the display of the notification image and the first effect image by the display means is finished, the display of the fourth effect image whose display time is adjusted before the display of the third effect image is performed. Characterized in that to start.

Furthermore, in order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention provides a main control unit that outputs a control command, a display unit that displays an effect image, an operation unit that can be operated by a player, and an operation of the operation unit. A notification image for notifying the player that the period is valid, a first effect image displayed on the display means in accordance with a predetermined control command, and a first image displayed on the display means in accordance with an operation of the operation means. An effect method for a gaming machine, comprising: a second effect image; and a storage means for storing a third effect image displayed on the display means when the operation means is not operated. A first display control step of displaying the first effect image on the display means and displaying the notification image superimposed on the first effect image when a predetermined control command is output; and operation If there operation stage, and a second display control step of starting the display of the display means according to the broadcast image and the first said end the display of the effect image second effect image,
A determination step for determining whether or not the operation means is not operated by the player and the predetermined timing is reached, and at the predetermined timing without the operation means being operated by the determination step. And a third display control step of ending display of the notification image and the first effect image by the display means and starting display of the third effect image when it is determined that the display means has become. Features.

  Furthermore, in order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention provides a main control unit that outputs a control command, a display unit that displays an effect image, an operation unit that can be operated by a player, and an operation of the operation unit. A notification image for notifying the player that the period is valid, a first effect image displayed on the display means in accordance with a predetermined control command, and a first image displayed on the display means in accordance with an operation of the operation means. The predetermined control command is sent from the main control means to a gaming machine comprising two effect images and a storage means for storing a third effect image displayed on the display means when the operation means is not operated. A first display control procedure for displaying the first effect image on the display means and displaying the notification image superimposed on the first effect image, and an operation of the operation means. Ah A second display control procedure for ending display of the notification image and the first effect image by the display means and starting display of the second effect image, and an operation of the operation means by the player A determination procedure for determining whether or not the predetermined timing has been reached, and when it is determined by the determination step that the predetermined timing has been reached in the absence of operation of the operating means, An effect program for executing a third display control procedure for ending display of the notification image and the first effect image by the display means and starting display of the third effect image. And

  According to the present invention, when the player does not operate the effect button, a special effect different from the normal effect is provided without permission on the gaming machine side, thereby providing an impressive effect for the player during the game. And can improve the interest of the game.

  Further, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a more impressive effect even for a player who operates the effect button relatively frequently.

  Furthermore, according to the present invention, since the frequency at which a special effect such as a special reach effect is performed by the game machine performing an effect by operating the effect button without permission, a variety of effect patterns are provided to the player. Can do.

  Furthermore, according to the present invention, a player who has not operated the effect button can clearly display that the effect button has been operated without permission and recognize that a special effect has begun. Can do.

  Furthermore, according to the present invention, the player can intentionally recognize that it is a special performance to be performed arbitrarily on the gaming machine side to raise game consciousness, and the player actively operates the performance button from the next time onwards. Can be expected.

  Furthermore, according to the present invention, by providing a relay effect pattern for adjusting the effect time, a special effect such as a special reach effect prepared in advance is provided to the player without being interrupted. It becomes possible.

It is a front view which shows the structure of the game machine which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the back surface side of the gaming machine shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the gaming machine shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the process of the main control board of the game machine which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the game machine which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flow chart for explaining processing of an effect control board, an image control board, etc. of a gaming machine concerning one embodiment of the present invention. It is a timing chart which shows the operation timing at the time of performing reach production by a game machine by one embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the detailed process of the special reach effect (step S16) by the production | presentation control board of the gaming machine of this embodiment shown in FIG. 6, an image control board, etc. FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the detailed process of the special reach production (step S18) by the production | presentation control board of the gaming machine of this embodiment shown in FIG. 6, an image control board, etc. FIG.

  Hereinafter, a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view showing a configuration of a gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the back side of the gaming machine 1 shown in FIG. Further, FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the gaming machine 1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

  The gaming machine 1 is provided with a gaming board 2 in which a gaming area 6 in which gaming balls flow down is formed, and a glass frame 110 is provided on an outer peripheral portion of the gaming area 6 of the gaming board 2. An operation handle 3 is rotatably provided on the glass frame 110.

  When the player touches the operation handle 3, the touch sensor 3 b in the operation handle 3 detects that the player has touched the operation handle 3 and transmits a touch signal to the firing control board 106. When the firing control board 106 receives a touch signal from the touch sensor 3b, the firing control board 106 permits energization of the firing solenoid 4a. When the rotation angle of the operation handle 3 is changed, the gear directly connected to the operation handle 3 rotates and the knob of the firing volume 3a connected to the gear rotates. A voltage corresponding to the detection angle of the firing volume 3a is applied to a firing solenoid 4a provided in the game ball launching mechanism. When a voltage is applied to the firing solenoid 4a, the firing solenoid 4a is operated according to the applied voltage, and the game ball is directed toward the game area 6 with a strength according to the rotation angle of the operation handle 3. Fire.

  The game ball fired as described above moves up between the rails 5 a and 5 b and reaches the upper position of the game board 2, and then falls in the game area 6. At this time, the game ball falls unpredictably by a plurality of nails and windmills (not shown) provided in the game area 6.

  The game area 6 is provided with a plurality of general winning ports 7. Each general winning opening 7 is provided with a general winning opening detecting switch 7a. When the general winning opening detecting switch 7a detects the entering of a game ball, a predetermined winning ball (for example, 10 game balls) is provided. Will be paid out.

  Further, at the lower position of the game area 6, similarly to the general winning port 7, a first start port 9 and a second start port 10 through which game balls can enter are provided. The second starting port 10 has a pair of movable pieces 10b, a first mode in which the pair of movable pieces 10b is maintained in a closed state, and a second mode in which the pair of movable pieces 10b are in an open state. It is movable and controlled. When the second starting port 10 is controlled in the first mode, it is impossible or difficult to receive the game ball due to the obstacle 10d positioned right above the second starting port 10. On the other hand, when the second starting port 10 is controlled to the second mode, the pair of movable pieces 10b function as a tray, and it is easy to enter the game ball into the second starting port 10. That is, when the second start port 10 is in the first mode, there is almost no opportunity for entering a game ball, and when the second start port 10 is in the second mode, the opportunity for entering a game ball is increased.

  The first start port 9 and the second start port 10 are provided with a first start port detection switch 9a and a second start port detection switch 10a for detecting the entrance of a game ball, respectively. When the switch detects the entry of a game ball, a lottery for acquiring a right to execute a jackpot game, which will be described later (hereinafter referred to as “hit a lottery”), is performed. Also, when the detection switches 9a and 10a detect the entry of a game ball, a predetermined prize ball (for example, 3 game balls) is paid out.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a first grand prize winning port 11 is provided below the game area 6 (just below the second starting port). The first grand prize opening 11 is normally kept closed by the first big prize opening opening / closing door 11b, and it is impossible to enter a game ball. On the other hand, when the long hit game is started, the first big prize opening / closing door 11b is opened, and the big prize opening / closing door 11b serves as a tray for guiding the game ball into the first big winning opening 11. It functions and the game ball can enter the first grand prize opening 11.

  In addition, a second grand prize winning port 90 is provided immediately below the first starting port 9 below the game area 6. The second grand prize opening 90 normally contains the second big prize mouth tray device 90b, and it is impossible to enter a game ball, but a short hit game or a small hit game is started. Then, the second grand prize receiving tray device 90b slides in the forward direction, and the game ball can enter.

  The first grand prize port 11 and the second grand prize port 90 are provided with a first grand prize port detection switch 11a and a second grand prize port detection switch 90a, respectively. When the two major winning opening detection switch 90a detects the entry of a game ball, a preset prize ball (for example, nine game balls) is paid out.

  Furthermore, in the gaming area 6, a normal symbol gate 8 is provided on the right side of the second starting port 10 so as to pass the game ball. The normal symbol gate 8 is provided with a gate detection switch 8a for detecting the passage of the game ball. When the gate detection switch 8a detects the passage of the game ball, the normal symbol lottery is performed.

  The lowermost part of the game area 6 is a discharge port for discharging game balls that have not entered any of the general winning port 7, the first starting port 9, the second starting port 10, and the first major winning port 11. 12 is provided.

  In addition, the game board 2 is provided with an effect device for performing various effects. Specifically, a liquid crystal display device 13 composed of a liquid crystal screen (LCD) or the like is provided at a substantially central portion of the game area 6. Further, both the upper position and the lower position of the game board 2 are An effect lighting device 16 is provided, and on the left side of the operation handle 3, an effect button 17 on which a player can perform an operation such as an effect is provided. The effect buttons 17 are also called “operation buttons” or “chance buttons”, and are constituted by convex buttons, and the player performs operations such as pressing the buttons. The effect button 17 may be an input pad or the like that employs a touch panel method, instead of a button that is pressed.

  The effect lighting device 16 includes a plurality of lights 16a, and performs various effects while changing the light irradiation direction and emission color of each light 16a.

  The effect button 17 displays, for example, an effect button image resembling the effect button 17 when the operation (push-down) reception is valid on the liquid crystal screen of the liquid crystal display device 13. An effect that prompts the player to operate the effect button is performed. The effect button 17 is provided with an effect button detection switch 17a. When the effect button detection switch 17a detects the player's operation, the liquid crystal display device 13, the effect lighting device 16 and the like according to this operation. The further production by is executed.

  Further, the liquid crystal display device 13 displays an image during standby when no game is being performed, or displays an image according to the progress of the game. For example, when a game ball enters the first start port 9 or the second start port 10, the effect symbol 30 for notifying the player of the lottery result is variably displayed. For example, the effect symbol 30 scrolls and displays three numbers, and stops the scrolling after a predetermined time, and displays a specific symbol (number) in an array. As a result, while the symbols are being scrolled, the player is given an impression that the lottery is currently being performed, and the player is notified of the lottery result by the symbols displayed when the scrolling is stopped. By displaying various images, characters, and the like during the variation display of the effect symbol 30, a high expectation that the player may win a big hit is given to the player.

  Further, the gaming machine 1 is provided with an audio output device 18 composed of a speaker, and in addition to each of the above-described effect devices, a sound effect is also performed.

  Below the game area 6, a first special symbol display device 19, a second special symbol display device 20, a normal symbol display device 21, a first special symbol hold indicator 22, a second special symbol hold indicator 23, A normal symbol hold indicator 24 is provided.

  The first special symbol display device 19 notifies a jackpot lottery result performed when a game ball enters the first starting port 9, and is composed of 7-segment LEDs. In other words, a plurality of special symbols corresponding to the jackpot lottery result are provided, and the lottery result is notified to the player by displaying the special symbol corresponding to the jackpot lottery result on the first special symbol display device 19. I am doing so. For example, “7” is displayed when the jackpot is won, and “−” is displayed when the player wins. “7” and “−” displayed in this way are special symbols, but these special symbols are not displayed immediately, but are displayed in a stopped state after being displayed for a predetermined time. .

  More specifically, when a game ball enters the first starting port 9, a jackpot lottery will be performed. However, the jackpot lottery result is not immediately notified to the player, and a predetermined time is passed. The player is notified when it has passed. When a predetermined time has elapsed, a special symbol corresponding to the jackpot lottery result is stopped and displayed so that the player is notified of the lottery result. The second special symbol display device 20 is for informing the lottery result of the jackpot that was performed when a game ball entered the second starting port 10, and the display mode is as described above. This is the same as the special symbol display mode in the one special symbol display device 19.

  Further, the normal symbol display device 21 is for notifying the lottery result of the normal symbol that is performed when the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 8. When the normal symbol is won by the normal symbol lottery, the normal symbol display device 21 is turned on, and then the second starting port 10 is controlled to the second mode for a predetermined time. Note that this normal symbol also does not immediately notify the lottery result when the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 8, but the normal symbol display device 21 blinks until a predetermined time elapses. Is displayed in a variable manner.

  Furthermore, if a game ball enters the first start port 9 or the second start port 10 during special symbol fluctuation display or a special game to be described later, and if the big hit lottery cannot be performed immediately, a certain condition The right to win a jackpot is reserved. More specifically, the right to win a jackpot where a game ball enters and is retained at the first start port 9 is retained as a first hold, and a game ball is retained and retained at the second start port 10. The jackpot lottery right is reserved as a second hold.

  For these holds, the upper limit reserved number is set to four, and the reserved number is displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 22 and the second special symbol hold indicator 23, respectively. When there is one first hold, the LED on the left side of the first special symbol hold indicator 22 lights up, and when there are two first holds, the two LEDs on the first special symbol hold indicator 22 Lights up. Further, when there are three first holds, the LED on the left side of the first special symbol hold indicator 22 blinks and the right LED is lit. When there are four first holds, the first special symbol hold The two LEDs on the display 22 flash. In addition, the second special symbol hold indicator 23 displays the number of the second reserved reserves as described above.

  The upper limit reserved number of normal symbols is also set to four, and the reserved number of normal symbols is displayed in the same manner as the first special symbol hold indicator 22 and the second special symbol hold indicator 23. Displayed on the device 24.

  The glass frame 110 supports a glass plate (not shown) that covers the game area 6 so as to be visible in front of the game board 2 (on the player side). The glass plate is detachably fixed to the glass frame 110.

  The glass frame 110 is connected to the outer frame 100 via a hinge mechanism portion 111 on one end side in the left-right direction (for example, the left side facing the gaming machine), and the other end side in the left-right direction using the hinge mechanism portion 111 as a fulcrum. (For example, the right side facing the gaming machine) can be rotated in a direction to release from the outer frame 100. The glass frame 110 covers the game board 2 together with the glass plate 111, and can be opened like a door with the hinge mechanism 111 as a fulcrum to open the inner part of the outer frame 100 including the game board 2. On the other end side of the glass frame 110, a lock mechanism for fixing the other end side of the glass frame 110 to the outer frame 100 is provided. The fixing by the lock mechanism can be released by a dedicated key. The glass frame 110 is also provided with a door opening switch 33 that detects whether or not the glass frame 110 is opened from the outer frame 100.

  On the back surface of the gaming machine 1, a main control board 101, an effect control board 102, a payout control board 103, a power supply board 107, a game information output terminal board 108, and the like are provided. In addition, a power plug 50 and a power switch (not shown) for supplying power to the gaming machine 1 are also provided on the back surface of the gaming machine 1.

  Next, game progress control by the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The main control board 101 is a device that controls the basic operation of the game. The main control board 101 includes a main CPU 101a, a main ROM 101b, and a main RAM 101c. The main CPU 101a reads out the program stored in the main ROM 101b based on the input signals from the detection switches and timers, performs arithmetic processing, and directly controls each device and display, or determines the result of the arithmetic processing. In response, a command is transmitted to another board. The main RAM 101c functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the main CPU 101a.

  On the input side of the main control board 101, a general winning opening detection switch 7a, a gate detection switch 8a, a first starting opening detection switch 9a, a second starting opening detection switch 10a, a first large winning opening detection switch 11a, a second A big prize opening detection switch 90 a is connected so that a detection signal of a game ball is input to the main control board 101.

  Further, on the output side of the main control board 101, a start opening / closing solenoid 10c for opening / closing the pair of movable pieces 10b of the second start opening 10 and a large winning opening opening / closing operation for opening / closing the first large winning opening opening / closing door 11b. A solenoid 11c and a second grand prize opening / closing solenoid 90c are connected, and a first special symbol display device 19, a second special symbol display device 20, a normal symbol display device 21, and a hold display, which constitute the symbol display device. The first special symbol hold indicator 22, the second special symbol hold indicator 23, and the normal symbol hold indicator 24 that constitute the device are connected, and various signals are output via the output port.

  Further, the main control board 101 outputs an external information signal necessary for managing a gaming machine in a hall computer or the like of a gaming store to the gaming information output terminal board 108.

  The main ROM 101b of the main control board 101 stores a game control program and data and tables necessary for determining various games.

  For example, the main ROM 101b has a jackpot determination table that is referred to when determining whether or not a special symbol variation stop result is a big hit, and when determining whether or not a normal symbol variation stop result is a hit. Reference hit determination table, fall determination table for determining whether or not to end the high probability gaming state Symbol determination table for determining a stop symbol of a special symbol, determination for determining a gaming state change flag based on the special symbol Table, jackpot end setting data table for determining the gaming state based on the gaming state change flag and the data in the gaming state buffer, special electric accessory operating mode determination for determining the opening / closing conditions of the big prize opening / closing door 11b Table, open mode determination table for long hits, open mode determination table for short hits, open mode determination table for small hits, special Variation pattern determination table or the like for determining the symbol of the fluctuation pattern is stored.

  Note that the above-described table is merely an example of characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment, and a number of other tables and programs (not shown) are provided for the progress of the game. ing.

  The main RAM 101c of the main control board 101 has a plurality of storage areas. For example, the main RAM 101c includes a normal symbol reserved number storage area, a normal symbol reserved storage area, a first special symbol reserved number storage area, a second special symbol reserved number storage area, a determination storage area, a first special symbol storage area, a first 2 special symbol memory area, remaining probability count storage area for high probability gaming state, remaining variation count storage area for short-time gaming state, round game count storage area, open count storage area, winning prize entry pitch storage area, gaming status storage An area, a game state buffer, a stop symbol data storage area, a game state change flag storage area, an effect transmission data storage area, and various timer counters are provided. The game state storage area includes a short-time game flag storage area, a high-probability game flag storage area, a special-purpose special electric processing data storage area, and a general-purpose normal electric processing data storage area. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

  The game information output terminal board 108 is a board for outputting an external information signal generated in the main control board 101 to a hall computer or the like of the game shop. The game information output terminal board 108 is wired to the main control board 101 and provided with a connector for connecting external information to a hall computer or the like of the game store.

  The power supply board 107 supplies power to the gaming machine via the power plug 50, and includes a backup power source composed of a capacitor. The power supply voltage supplied to the gaming machine is monitored, and the power supply voltage is less than a predetermined value. When this happens, a power interruption detection signal is output to the main control board 101. More specifically, when the power interruption detection signal becomes high level, the main CPU 101a becomes operable, and when the power interruption detection signal becomes low level, the main CPU 101a becomes inactive state. The backup power source is not limited to a capacitor, and may be a battery, for example, or a capacitor and a battery may be used in combination.

  The effect control board 102 mainly controls each effect such as during game play or standby. For example, the effect control board 102 causes the image control board 105 to execute various effects such as a reach effect, a notification effect of an operation instruction for the effect button 17, a jackpot effect, and a loss effect. In order to perform such processing, the effect control board 102 includes a sub CPU 102a, a sub ROM 102b, and a sub RAM 102c, and the main control board 101 is directed in one direction from the main control board 101 to the effect control board 102. It is connected so that it can communicate. The sub CPU 102a reads out a program stored in the sub ROM 102b based on a command transmitted from the main control board 101 or an input signal from the effect button detection switch 17a and the timer and performs arithmetic processing. Based on this, the corresponding data is transmitted to the lamp control board 104 or the image control board 105. The sub RAM 102c functions as a data work area when the sub CPU 102a performs arithmetic processing.

  The sub ROM 102b of the effect control board 102 stores an effect control program, data necessary for determining various games, tables, and the like.

  For example, the sub ROM 102b stores a variation effect pattern determination table for determining an effect pattern based on a variation pattern designation command received from the main control board 101. The table is merely a characteristic table among the tables of the present embodiment, and a number of tables and programs (not shown) are provided in addition to the progress of the game.

  The sub RAM 102c of the effect control board 102 has a plurality of storage areas. For example, the sub RAM 102c is provided with a command reception buffer, a game state storage area, an effect mode storage area, and the like. Note that these storage areas merely list characteristic storage areas of the storage areas of the present embodiment as an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

  In the present embodiment, the effect control board 102 is equipped with an RTC (real time clock) 102d for outputting the current time. The sub CPU 102a inputs a date signal indicating the current date and a time signal indicating the current time from the RTC 102d, and executes various processes based on the current date and time. The RTC 102d is normally operated by power from the gaming machine 1 when power is supplied to the gaming machine 1, and is supplied from backup power mounted on the power supply board 107 when the power of the gaming machine 1 is turned off. It operates with a power source that operates. Therefore, the RTC 102d can measure the current date and time even when the gaming machine 1 is powered off. Note that the RTC 102d may be provided with a battery on the effect control board 102 and operated by the battery.

  Alternatively, the RTC 102d may not be provided, and the time may be measured by counting up a counter provided in the sub RAM 102c having a function as a backup RAM every predetermined time (for example, every 2 ms).

  The payout control board 103 performs game ball launch control and prize ball payout control. The payout control board 103 includes a payout CPU 103a, a payout ROM 103b, and a payout RAM 103c, and is connected to the main control board 101 so as to be capable of two-way communication. The payout CPU 103a reads out the program stored in the payout ROM 103b based on the input signals from the payout ball count detection switch 32, the door opening switch 33, and the timer for detecting whether or not the game ball has been paid out. At the same time, the corresponding data is transmitted to the main control board 101 based on the processing. The payout control board 103 is connected to a payout motor 31 of a prize ball payout device for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls from the game ball storage unit to the player. Based on the payout number designation command transmitted from the main control board 101, the payout CPU 103a reads out a predetermined program from the payout ROM 103b and performs arithmetic processing, and controls the payout motor 31 of the prize ball payout device to execute a predetermined prize. Pay the ball to the player. At this time, the payout RAM 103c functions as a data work area during the calculation process of the payout CPU 103a.

  Also, it is confirmed whether a game ball lending device (card unit) (not shown) is connected to the payout control board 103, and if a game ball lending device (card unit) is connected, the game ball is fired on the launch control board 106. Sending fire control data that allows

  When the launch control board 106 receives the launch control data from the payout control board 103, the launch control board 106 permits the launch. Then, the touch signal from the touch sensor 3b and the input signal from the launch volume 3a are read out, the energization control of the launch solenoid 4a is performed, and the game ball is launched.

  Here, the rotational speed of the firing solenoid 4a is set to about 99.9 (times / minute) based on the frequency based on the output period of the crystal oscillator provided on the firing control board 106. As a result, the number of games played in one minute is about 99.9 (pieces / minute) since one piece is fired every time the firing solenoid rotates. That is, the game ball is fired about every 0.6 seconds.

  The lamp control board 104 includes a lamp CPU 104a, a lamp ROM 104b, and a lamp ROM 104b for controlling the lighting of the effect lighting device 16 provided on the game board 2 and controlling the motor for changing the light irradiation direction. A lamp RAM 104c is provided. The lamp control board 104 is connected to the effect control board 102 and performs the above-described controls based on the data transmitted from the effect control board 102.

  The image control board 105 includes an image CPU 105a, an image ROM 105b, an image RAM (VRAM) 105c, an audio CPU 105d, an audio ROM 105e, and an audio RAM 105f for performing image display control of the liquid crystal display device 13. The image control board 105 is connected to the effect control board 102 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication, and the liquid crystal display device 13 and the audio output device 18 are connected to the output side thereof.

  Here, the audio ROM 105e stores a large number of audio data output from the audio output device 18, and the audio CPU 105d reads a predetermined program into the audio RAM 105f based on the command transmitted from the effect control board 102. At the same time, the audio output control in the audio output device 18 is performed.

  The image ROM 105b of the image control board 105 stores a large number of various image data such as effect symbols 30 and background symbols displayed on the liquid crystal display device 13. The image CPU 105 a performs display control for reading predetermined image data from the image ROM 105 b to the VRAM 105 c based on the command transmitted from the effect control board 102 and displaying it on the liquid crystal display device 13. For example, the image CPU 105a displays a background image, various effect design images such as a normal reach effect and a special reach effect, a character image, a notification image for a player, and the like based on a command transmitted from the effect control board 102. Are read out and written into the VRAM 105c, and these images are displayed on the liquid crystal screen of the liquid crystal display device 13.

  On the liquid crystal screen of the liquid crystal display device 13, the effect design image and the character image are displayed so as to be seen in front of the background image, and the notification image for instructing the player to perform various operation instructions etc. It is displayed so that it can be seen in front of the character image. When the background image and the design image overlap at the same position, the design image is preferentially stored in the VRAM 105c by referring to the Z value of the Z buffer of each image data by a known hidden surface removal method such as the Z buffer method.

  Next, image effect control displayed on the liquid crystal screen of the liquid crystal display device of the gaming machine 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining processing of the main control board 101 of the gaming machine 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Note that the processing described below is realized by the main CPU 101a of the main control board 101 executing a program stored in the main ROM 101b.

  When the main CPU 101a of the main control board 101 detects that a game ball has won a winning winning opening as a main process with each detection switch (step S1), it acquires a random number (step S2). Then, the main CPU 102a transmits an effect pattern control command to the effect control board 102 based on the acquired random number value (step S3).

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the gaming machine 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Note that the block diagram shown in FIG. 5 shows the minimum configuration necessary for explaining the reach effect process of the gaming machine 1 described below with reference to FIG.
As shown in FIG. 5, the gaming machine 1 includes a main control means 200 realized by the main control board 101 and the like, an effect control means 300 realized by the effect control board 102 and the image control board 105, and the liquid crystal display device. Display means 400 realized by 13 and the like, and operation means 500 realized by the effect button 17 and the like. In the gaming machine 1 having such a configuration, as described above, the effect control means 300 is directed to the effect image display means 400 in response to a specific control command such as the reach effect command output from the main control means 200. Display control and an operation of the operation means 500 by the player is accepted.

  Further, in the effect control means 300, for example, the display of the effect button 17 is performed so that the storage means 301 realized by the image ROM 105b or the like of the image control board 105 can cause the player to perform various operation instructions using the operation means 500. An effect button image (notification image) created to resemble the aspect, a normal reach effect pattern (first effect image) displayed on the display means 400 in accordance with the reach effect command output from the main control means 200, and an operation means The special reach effect pattern A (second effect image) displayed on the display means 400 when 500 operations are performed and the player does not operate the operation means, and at a predetermined timing. In this case, an image (moving image) such as a special reach effect pattern B (third effect image) displayed on the display means 400 is stored. As described above, in the present embodiment, a special reach effect pattern that differs depending on whether or not the operation means 500 is operated by the player is provided. For example, the effect of the special reach effect pattern B is set to be a flashy effect than the effect of the special reach effect pattern A, or an effect full of expectation that is expected to be the next big hit. By doing so, it is considered that it is possible to guide the player to advance and press the effect button at the next reach.

  Furthermore, in the effect control means 300, the first display control means 302 realized by the sub CPU 102a of the effect control board 102, the image CPU 105a of the image control board 105, etc. displays according to the reach effect command output from the main control means 200. A normal reach effect pattern is displayed on the means 400, and an effect button image is superimposed on the reach effect.

  Furthermore, in the effect control means 300, the second display control means 303 realized by the sub CPU 102 a of the effect control board 102, the image CPU 105 a of the image control board 105, etc., operates the operation means 500 by the player. Further, the display of the effect button image and the normal reach effect pattern by the display unit 400 is terminated and the display of the special reach effect pattern A is started, thereby switching the reach effect from the normal reach effect to the special reach effect A.

  Furthermore, in the effect control means 300, the determination means 305 realized by the sub CPU 102a or the like determines whether or not the player has not operated the operation means 500 and has reached a specific timing. Here, the specific timing is, for example, a timing when a predetermined time elapses after the normal reach effect is started in a state where the player does not operate the effect button 17, and is set in the gaming machine 1 in advance. This is the timing at which the special reach effect is started (forcibly) without permission on the gaming machine side. In the effect control means 300, the third display control means 304 realized by the sub CPU 102a of the effect control board 102, the image CPU 105a of the image control board 105, and the like is in a state where the operation means 500 is not operated by the determination means 305. When it is determined that the specific timing has been reached, the display of the effect button image and the normal reach effect pattern by the display unit 400 is terminated and the display of the special reach effect pattern B is started, so that the special reach effect is changed from the normal reach effect. Switch reach production to B.

  In the present embodiment, by providing the gaming machine 1 with the above-described configuration, the same special reach effect (for example, when the effect button 17 is operated even though the player does not operate the effect button 17 (for example, Providing the game machine side with an effect that indicates the state where the effect button 17 is pressed is provided on the game machine side, providing an impressive effect for the player who is playing the game, thereby further enhancing the interest of the game.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 5, in the effect control means 300 of the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the acquisition means 306 realized by the sub CPU 102a or the like acquires information related to the operation timing of the operation means 500 by the player. In addition, the prediction means 307 realized by the sub CPU 102a or the like predicts the operation timing of the operation means 500 by the player based on the acquired information regarding the operation timing. The third display control unit 304 then displays the effect button image and the normal reach effect by the display unit 400 at a timing earlier than the operation timing predicted by the prediction unit 307 in a state where the player does not operate the operation unit 500. The display of the pattern is terminated and the display of the special reach effect pattern B is started. By performing such processing, in the gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment, even for a player who operates the effect button 17 relatively frequently, the effect button image is displayed for a certain period of time and the game is performed. Since it is possible to start the special reach production on the gaming machine side at an earlier timing than the user operates, a more impressive production can be provided.

  In the above-described effect control means 300, the determination means 305 determines that the specific timing has come, not every time a control command is output from the main control means 200, but randomly (for example, the main control means 200). May be performed at a rate of any one of a plurality of times output from (1). In this way, the game machine 1 can provide a variety of performance patterns to the player by randomizing the frequency of performing special effects such as special reach effects by performing effects by operating the effect buttons 17 without permission. it can.

  In the effect control means 300, the storage means 301 further stores an operation effect image in a form in which the effect button image generated corresponding to the operation form of the operation means 500 is changed, and the third display control means. 304 is an effect button by the display means 400 when the operation means 500 is operated by the player, or when it is determined by the determination means 305 that the player has not operated the operation means 500 at a specific timing. The display of the image may be terminated and the display of the operation effect image may be started. In this way, to the player who has not operated the effect button 17, the player can clearly display that a special effect has been started by operating the effect button 17 on the gaming machine 1 without permission. Recognize that something special will start.

  Furthermore, in the effect control means 300, when the third display control means 304 causes the display means 400 to start displaying the special reach effect pattern B in a state where the player does not operate the operation means 500, the effect control means 300 The first display control unit 302 displays the display timing of the effect button image to be superimposed on the normal reach effect pattern displayed on the display unit 400, and the third display control unit 304 allows the player to operate the operation unit 500. Alternatively, the display timing of the effect button image when the special reach effect pattern B is not displayed on the display means 400 may be different. By doing this, it is expected that the player will intentionally operate the effect button from the next time to raise the game consciousness by intentionally recognizing that it is a special effect that is performed on the machine side without permission. It is possible to provide a gaming machine that can be used.

  Furthermore, in the effect control means 300, the storage means 301 may further store a moving image of the relay effect pattern for adjusting the effect time as the fourth effect image, and use this. That is, the third display control unit 304 determines that the relay effect pattern whose display time has been adjusted is the normal reach effect pattern when the determination unit 305 determines that the specific timing has been reached when the operation unit 500 is not operated. It is displayed on the display means 400 after the end and before the display of the special reach effect pattern B is started. The display time adjustment at this time is the sum of the display time of the normal reach effect pattern displayed by the display means 400, the display time of the special reach effect pattern B stored in the storage means 301, and the display time of the relay effect pattern. The display time of the fourth effect image is adjusted so that the time is the same as the display time of the effect image displayed on the display means 400 according to the control command output from the main control means 200. By providing a relay production pattern for adjusting the production time in this way, a special production such as a special reach production with a story prepared in advance can be provided to the player without interruption. It becomes possible.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining processing of the effect control board 102 and the image control board 105 of the gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. In the following, while the player is playing the gaming machine 1, a reach effect command is transmitted from the main control board 101 to the effect control board 102 to start a normal reach effect, and an effect button is given to the player during the normal reach effect. After performing the notification effect of the operation instruction of 17, the player operates the effect button 17 to start the special reach effect. The gaming machine 1 arbitrarily presses the effect button 17 even though the player is not operating. Various embodiments will be described in which the special reach effect is started as an effect as operated, or the normal reach effect is continuously displayed as it is when the effect button 17 is not operated.

  In the image ROM 105b of the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, in order to perform an effect as described above, when a reach effect command is received from the main control board 101, a normal reach effect for displaying on the liquid crystal display device 13 is displayed. Reach effect pattern video, a notification image for prompting the player to operate the effect button 17 (for example, an effect button image that is a still image in a display mode resembling the effect button 17, the effect button image flashes, emits light, etc. An image displayed as an effect button image that is a moving image of an effect pattern of the display mode being displayed), and when the effect button 17 is operated by the player or operated by the gaming machine 1 without permission, the liquid crystal display device 13 displays the image. Video with a pattern that changes the display mode of the notification image (for example, after the display state of the effect button image is operated from the display mode before the operation) A video relating to a change in shape up to the display mode), a video of a reach effect pattern (special reach effect pattern A) for a special reach effect to be displayed when the effect button 17 is operated by the player, an effect button 17 Various effect images such as a video of a reach effect pattern (special reach effect pattern B) for special reach effect to be displayed when an effect that is operated by the gaming machine 1 is performed. Note that the animation of the display mode change pattern of the notification image may use different patterns depending on whether the player operates the game machine 1 or the game machine 1 operates arbitrarily.

  Further, as will be described below, this processing is realized by the sub CPU 102a of the effect control board 102 executing the program stored in the sub ROM 102b and the image CPU 105a executing the program stored in the image ROM 105b. Is done.

  When receiving the effect pattern control command from the main control board 101 (step S11), the sub CPU 102a of the effect control board 102 determines whether or not the effect pattern control command is a specific command (step S12). In this embodiment, a specific command is a reach effect command.

  If it is determined in step S12 that the received effect control command is a specific command (reach effect command) (YES), the sub CPU 102a controls the image control board 105 to cause the liquid crystal display device 13 to perform normal operation. The display of the reach effect image (normal reach effect pattern) is started (step S13). Specifically, the image CPU 105a reads a moving image having a normal reach effect pattern from the image ROM 105b based on a command from the sub CPU 102a, and causes the liquid crystal display device 13 to display it.

  Here, FIG. 7 is a timing chart showing the operation timing when the reach effect is performed by the gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 7, (a) shows a case where the player has operated an effective production button 17 during a normal reach production, and (b) shows a game in a state where the player has not operated an effective production button 17. In the case where an effect is made such that the effect button 17 is operated without permission to perform a special reach effect on the machine 1 side, (c) is a case where an effective effect button operation is not performed by the player and a game The timing chart of the operation | movement timing when the machine 1 does not perform a special reach production without permission is shown.

The timing _{t 1} shown in FIG. 7 (a), (b) , (c) corresponds normally to the timing of the display start of reach demonstration pattern in the step S13. Further, at the timing t _1, Note that the normal reach demonstration pattern to be displayed at this time, performance button image is a broadcast image to the player to be described later has not yet been superimposed.

Next, the sub CPU 102a is a notification image for controlling the image control board 105 to prompt the player to operate the effect button 17 on the liquid crystal screen of the liquid crystal display device 13 on which the normal reach effect pattern is displayed. An effect button image resembling the effect button 17 is superimposed and displayed (step S14). Here, equivalent to the performance button operably start timing t ₂ is superimposed timing of the display start of the display of the performance button images on normal reach demonstration pattern in the step S14 in FIG. 7 (a), (b) , (c) To do.

At a timing t ₂ shown in FIG. 7 (a) ~ (c) , it has been carried out normally reach demonstration initiated displayed at the timing t ₁ continues, performance button on the liquid crystal screen of the liquid crystal display device 13 thereon The effect button image resembling 17 is superimposed and displayed as a notification image, and the player is urged to operate the effect button 17 by the display. In the effect button image, the effect image displayed on the liquid crystal display device 13 by the player operating the effect button 17 is changed from a normal reach effect to a special reach effect in an effect mode different from the normal reach effect. Is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 13 only during a period of time during which the operation that can be performed is effective (hereinafter referred to as “effect button operation possible period”), and the gaming machine 1 has special reach for the operation of the effect button 17 by the player during this period. Accepted as an effective operation for production. Therefore, for example, when there is no operation by the player nor forced operation in which the gaming machine 1 performs a special reach effect without permission, the timing t slightly before the reach effect end timing t ₅ shown in FIG. ₉ will be accepted. It should be noted that the timing t ₉ may also be the same as the timing t ₅ of reach demonstration end.

  Then, the sub CPU 102a determines whether or not the effect button 17 has been operated by the player (step S15). As a result, if it is determined that the effect button 17 has been operated (YES), the sub CPU 102a controls the image control board 105 to replace the normal reach effect currently displayed on the liquid crystal display device 13 with a special reach. A special reach effect (special reach effect A) by the effect pattern A is displayed (step S16).

FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining detailed processing of the special reach effect A (step S16) by the effect control board 102 and the image control board 105 of the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment shown in FIG. When it is determined in the process of step S15 that the player has operated the effect button 17 (YES), the sub CPU 102a controls the image control board 105 to display the effect button that has been displayed on the liquid crystal display device 13 until then. The display effect by the image is ended, and instead of this, the effect button operation effect is started (step S16a). The timing indicated by the timing _{t 3} in FIG. 7 (a). The effect button operation effect is an operation effect image created in advance to resemble the operation mode in which the effect button 17 is pressed by the player (for example, the display state of the effect button image is pressed from the mode before the press. A moving image expressing a series of changes in the shape pattern up to the subsequent mode can be used.

After starting the effect button operation effect in step S16a, the sub CPU 102a controls the image control board 105 to end the normal reach effect that has been displayed on the liquid crystal display device 13 until then, and instead of this, the special reach effect is generated. A is started (step S16b). Note that, as described above, the end of the display effect of the effect button image, the start of the effect button operation effect, the end of the normal reach effect, and the start timing of the special reach effect A are as described above. performs a start button operation directed at the timing t _3, to normally be a sequence that carries out subsequent termination and special reach demonstration a of reach demonstration, all the same timing (timing as shown in FIG. 7 (a) It may be t ₃ ). Alternatively, after the special reach effect A starts, the effect button operation effect may be started.

Then, at the timing _{t 4} when the timing _{t 3} in performance button operation from the performance is started time _{t 34} (performance button operation effect time) has elapsed, the sub CPU102a controls the image control board 105, performance button operation effect Is terminated (step S16c).

After the effect button operation effect ends in step S16c, special reach is determined until it is determined by the effect control board 102 that the reach effect end timing (timing t ₅ shown in FIG. 7A) is reached (step S16d: YES). The effect A is continuously displayed on the liquid crystal display device 13. (Step S16d). Then, when the reach production end timing is reached, the special reach production A is terminated (step S16e).

On the other hand, if the player does not operate the effect button 17 in step S15 of the flowchart shown in FIG. 6 (NO), the gaming machine 1 is used even though the player does not operate the effect button 17. Will operate the effect button 17 without permission, the same effect as the effect that the player has operated the effect button 17 is performed, and the timing when the special reach effect is started when the effect button 17 is operated (forced effect button operation) Production timing: It is determined whether or not it is time t ₆ ) shown in FIG. 7B (step S 17). As a result, when it is determined that it is the compulsory effect button operation effect timing (YES), the sub CPU 102a controls the image control board 105 to replace the normal reach effect currently displayed on the liquid crystal display device 13. The special reach production (special reach production B) by the special reach production pattern B is displayed (step S18).

FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining detailed processing of the special reach effect B (step S18) by the effect control board 102 and the image control board 105 of the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment shown in FIG. If it is determined in the process of step S17 that it is the forced effect button operation effect timing (YES), the sub CPU 102a controls the image control board 105 and uses the effect button image that has been displayed on the liquid crystal display device 13 until then. The display effect is ended and an effect button operation effect is started instead (step S18a). The timing indicated by the timing _{t 6} in FIG. 7 (b). The effect button operation effect is an operation effect image created in advance similar to the display mode in which the effect button 17 is pressed by the player (for example, the display state of the effect button image is pressed), as in step S16. A moving image expressing a series of changes in the shape pattern from the previous mode to the mode after being pressed can be used.

After starting the performance button operations directed at step S18a, the timing _{t 7} after the elapse time _{t 67} (performance button operation effect time), sub CPU102a controls the image control board 105, and ends the performance button operation effect (Step S18b).

Next, the sub CPU 102a controls the image control board 105 to end the normal reach effect that has been displayed on the liquid crystal display device 13 until then, and starts the relay effect instead (step S18c). Here, the relay effect is an effect for display time adjustment performed using a moving image of the relay effect pattern for adjusting the effect time stored in advance in the storage unit 301. Specifically, in the effect control means 300, the total time of the display time of the normal reach effect pattern, the display time of the special reach effect pattern B, and the display time of the relay effect pattern is displayed according to the control command output from the main control means 200. The display time (time t ₇₈ ) of the relay effect that is the effect of the fourth effect image is determined so as to be the same as the display time of the effect image displayed on the means 400, and the relay effect is performed only for the time. To do.

Next, when the time t78 has elapsed since the start of the relay effect, the sub CPU 102a controls the image control board 105 to end the relay effect displayed on the liquid crystal display device 13, and replaces this with the special effect. Reach production B is started (step S18d). The timing indicated by the timing _{t 8} in FIG. 7 (b).
In addition, as described above, the end timing of the effect button image display effect, the start of the effect button operation effect, the end of the normal reach effect, and the start time of the special reach effect B are as described above. carried out the beginning of the end with the performance button operation directed at the timing t _6, it performs the start of the relay performance and the end of the performance button operation directed at the timing t _7, to perform after the end and special reach demonstration B of the relay performance at the timing t ₈ may be a order, then terminates the normal reach demonstration at the point of timing t _6, it may start the relay effect. Further, the end of the effect button operation effect may be performed after the special reach effect B starts.

After the special reach effect B is started in step S18d, the special reach is determined by the effect control board 102 until it is determined that the reach effect is finished (timing t ₅ shown in FIG. 7B) (step S18e: YES). The effect B is continuously displayed on the liquid crystal display device 13. (Step S18e). Then, when the reach production end timing is reached, the special reach production B is terminated (step S18f).
In the present embodiment, only in the case of the special reach effect B, the effect time of the entire reach effect is adjusted by inserting the relay effect between the normal reach effect without adjusting the length of the special reach effect B. However, the effect time of the special reach effect B may be adjusted without using (inserting) the relay effect. Further, the relay effect may be performed as described above in the special reach effect A described above.

If it is determined in step S17 that it is not the forced effect button operation effect timing (NO), it is determined whether or not it is within the effect button operation possible period (step S19). As a result, when it is determined that it is within the period during which the effect button can be operated (YES), the process returns to step S15. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S19 that it is not within the period during which the player can operate the effect button (that is, the timing t9 shown in FIG. 7C when the time during which an effective operation is possible ends) (NO). Then, the display of the effect button image displayed in a superimposed manner on the normal reach effect pattern on the liquid crystal screen of the liquid crystal display device 13 is terminated (step S20). In other words, the player after becoming the timing t ₉ will not be migrated to be special reach demonstration by operating the performance button 17.

Then, when it becomes a timing _{t 5} shown in FIG. 7 (c), sub CPU102a controls the image control board 105, and ends the normal reach effect (step S21). As described above, it may be the same timing as the display end timing t ₉ and the timing t ₅ of the normal reach demonstration completion of performance button image.

  If it is determined in step S12 that the received effect pattern command is not a specific command (NO), the sub CPU 102a performs another effect process corresponding to the received effect pattern command (step S22).

  In addition, during the time when the effect button 17 can be operated, the display mode of the effect button image may not be changed unless the effect button 17 is operated, or the size, position, color, and the like of the effect button image are fine. You may make it change.

  The specific configuration of the gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention described above is not limited to the embodiment, and the present invention can be applied even if there is a design change or the like without departing from the gist of the present invention. included. For example, in the above embodiment, the reach effect command is used as an example of the specific command, but other commands may be used. For example, the specific command includes a jackpot command transmitted during the continuation of the jackpot state, a jackpot start command for starting the jackpot state processing, a jackpot end command for ending the jackpot state processing, A jackpot reach command for executing processing in the normal reach state, a power-on command for executing processing at the time of power-on in the peripheral portion, and a customer waiting demo command for executing a demonstration display in the non-game state in the peripheral portion , A customer waiting demonstration stop command for stopping the demonstration display in the non-gaming state in the peripheral part, a detach command for executing processing when the lottery result at the lottery is out of the peripheral part, a normal electric accessory (electric tulip ) Special lottery is short as well as open lottery and so-called fake jackpot Only it may be small per command and the like transmitted for the duration of the small contact state so as to open. In addition to the above, the specific command may be, for example, a power off command, a miss reach command, a miss non-reach command, a round start command, a round end command, or the like.

  Further, the color, shape and size of the effect button image, the display position on the liquid crystal screen of the liquid crystal display device 13 and the like are not limited to the above embodiment, and the design can be changed without departing from the gist of the present invention. And the like are included in the present invention.

  Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example in which the present invention is applied to a pachinko gaming machine has been shown. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine such as a sparrow ball gaming machine or an arrangement ball. The present invention can also be applied to other game machines such as a spinning machine such as a machine or a slot machine. Also in these gaming machines, the same effects as in the above embodiment can be obtained by configuring in the same manner as in the above embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 13 Liquid crystal display device 17 Effect button 101 Main control board 101a Main CPU
101b Main ROM
101c Main RAM
102 Production control board 102a Sub CPU
102b Sub ROM
102c Sub RAM
102d RTC
105 Image Control Board 200 Main Control Unit 300 Production Control Unit 301 Storage Unit 302 First Display Control Unit 303 Second Display Control Unit 304 Third Display Control Unit 305 Judgment Unit 306 Acquisition Unit 307 Prediction Unit 400 Display Unit 500 Operation means

Claims (8)

Main control means for outputting a control command, display means for displaying an effect image, effect control means for controlling display of the effect image on the display means in response to the control command, and an operation that can be operated by the player A gaming machine comprising means,
The production control means includes
A notification image for notifying the player that the operation of the operation means is in a valid period, a first effect image displayed on the display means according to a predetermined control command, and the display according to an operation of the operation means Storage means for storing a second effect image displayed on the means and a third effect image displayed on the display means when there is no operation of the operation means;
When the predetermined control command is output from the main control unit, the first effect image is displayed on the display unit, and the notification image is superimposed on the first effect image. Display control means;
Second display control means for terminating display of the notification image and the first effect image by the display means and starting display of the second effect image when the operation means is operated;
Determination means for determining whether or not the operation means is not operated by a player and whether a predetermined timing has been reached;
When it is determined by the determination means that the predetermined timing has been reached without the operation means being operated, the display of the notification image and the first effect image by the display means is terminated, and the third A gaming machine comprising: third display control means for starting display of an effect image. Obtaining means for obtaining information relating to the operation timing of the operation means by a player;
A prediction means for predicting an operation timing of the operation means by the player based on the information on the operation timing;
The third display control unit is configured to detect the notification image and the first display by the display unit at a timing earlier than the operation timing predicted by the prediction unit in a state where the player does not operate the operation unit. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein display of the effect image is terminated and display of the third effect image is started.   2. The determination unit according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit determines that the predetermined timing has been reached at an arbitrary ratio of a plurality of times when the predetermined control command is output from the main control unit. Or the gaming machine of 2. The storage means further stores an operation effect image of a mode in which the notification image generated corresponding to the operation mode of the operation unit is changed,
The third display control means is when the operation means is operated by a player, or when it is determined by the determination means that the predetermined timing has been reached without any operation of the operation means by the player. The game machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the display of the notification image by the display means is ended and the display of the operation effect image is started.   When the third display control unit causes the display unit to start displaying the third effect image in a state where the player does not operate the operation unit, the first display control unit is configured to display the third display image. The display timing of the notification image to be superimposed on the first effect image displayed on the display means is displayed on the display means in a state where the player does not operate the operation means by the third display control means. 5. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the game image is made different from a display timing of the notification image when the effect image is not displayed. 6. The storage means further stores a fourth effect image,
The third display control unit displays the first effect image displayed by the display unit when the determination unit determines that the predetermined timing has been reached in a state where the operation unit is not operated. Display of the effect image displayed on the display means according to the predetermined control command, the total time of the display time of the third effect image and the display time of the fourth effect image stored in the storage means The display time of the fourth effect image is adjusted to be the same as the time, and after the display of the notification image and the first effect image by the display means is ended, the display of the third effect image is performed. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein display of the fourth effect image whose display time has been adjusted before is started. Main control means for outputting a control command, display means for displaying an effect image, operation means operable by the player, and a notification image for notifying the player that the operation of the operation means is in a valid period A first effect image displayed on the display means according to a predetermined control command, a second effect image displayed on the display means according to an operation of the operation means, and when there is no operation of the operation means An effect method for a gaming machine comprising storage means for storing a third effect image displayed on the display means,
When the predetermined control command is output from the main control unit, the first effect image is displayed on the display unit, and the notification image is superimposed on the first effect image. A display control process;
A second display control step of terminating display of the notification image and the first effect image by the display means and starting display of the second effect image when the operation means is operated;
A determination step of determining whether or not the operation means is not operated by the player and a predetermined timing is reached;
When it is determined by the determination step that the predetermined timing has been reached in a state where the operation unit is not operated, the display of the notification image and the first effect image by the display unit is terminated, and the third And a third display control step of starting display of the effect image. Main control means for outputting a control command, display means for displaying an effect image, operation means operable by the player, and a notification image for notifying the player that the operation of the operation means is in a valid period A first effect image displayed on the display means according to a predetermined control command, a second effect image displayed on the display means according to an operation of the operation means, and when there is no operation of the operation means A gaming machine comprising storage means for storing a third effect image displayed on the display means,
When the predetermined control command is output from the main control unit, the first effect image is displayed on the display unit, and the notification image is superimposed on the first effect image. Display control procedures;
A second display control procedure for terminating the display of the notification image and the first effect image by the display means and starting the display of the second effect image when the operation means is operated;
A determination procedure for determining whether or not the operation means is not operated by a player and whether or not a predetermined timing has been reached;
When it is determined by the determination step that the predetermined timing has been reached in a state where the operation unit is not operated, the display of the notification image and the first effect image by the display unit is terminated, and the third An effect program for executing the third display control procedure for starting display of the effect image.

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