JP2011189088A - Pinball game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a pinball game machine in which a special symbol displayed when winning can be visually recognized afterwards even when a player has missed to see the special symbol. <P>SOLUTION: A main control part 20 transmits special symbol specifying information as related one by one to each kind of symbol (S331). A performance control part 24 grasps the kind of the special symbol based on received special symbol specifying information to be stored to be usable as part of information related to winning in the past (S725). In a secret performance mode, the grasped special symbol for winning with a latent probability big win or small win as a win immediately before is displayed on a liquid crystal display device 36 as a decoration symbol display means (S743). In a demonstration screen display period, winning record images are displayed on the liquid crystal display device under prescribed conditions. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a ball game machine that conceals whether a gaming state after a winning game is a high-probability state or a low-probability state and has a degree of expectation that it is latent in a probability-changing state. .

  In general, a ball game machine draws a lot about whether or not to generate a special game state (so-called big hit) advantageous to a player who can acquire a large number of prize balls at once, and the lottery result is specially displayed in a special symbol display device. In addition to appearing as a symbol variation display game, in conjunction with the special symbol variation display game, the image display device displays a plurality of decorative symbols in order in a variation state and a variation stop state, thereby allowing the symbol game to be displayed. It is a composition to enjoy.

  Here, as the types of jackpots, normally, the game state after the jackpot ends is shifted to a low probability state in which the jackpot winning probability is a predetermined probability, and a high probability state with a higher winning probability. And “probable big hit” to shift to. In addition, recently, the game state after the end of the hit game is shifted to a high probability state, but “hidden probability change big hit” that puts the high probability state in a concealed state and the game state at the time of winning is continued as it is “small There is a ball game machine that includes a "hit".

  In this type of ball game machine, if you win the big chance or big hit of the latent probability, for example, the same two rounds of winning game, and the performance state after the winning game is the same or very similar to each other, The game state after winning is not directly informed to the player whether the game state is a high probability state or a low probability state, thereby giving the expectation to the high probability state ( Patent Document 1) below.

JP 2006-1116016 A

  However, it is not always advantageous for the player to keep the game state after hitting in a concealed state as to whether it is a high probability state or a low probability state. On the other hand, the interest in the game may be lost. In addition, it is difficult to completely discriminate whether the gaming state after hitting is a high probability state or a low probability state. That is, a special symbol that directly notifies the result of the big hit lottery is always displayed by a special symbol display device such as a 7-segment display. For this reason, the player can discriminate whether it is the small hit or the latent probability variation by looking at the stop mode of the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display device.

  On the other hand, the stop mode at the time of hitting the special symbol is displayed only for a short time until the next fluctuation after hitting starts. For this reason, the player often overlooks, and when a special symbol in the stop mode is overlooked, it becomes impossible to determine whether the gaming state after hit is a high probability state or a low probability state. . There is also a problem that this may cause the player to lose interest in the game.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned problems, and even when a special symbol displayed on the special symbol display device is overlooked at the time of hitting, a ball game machine capable of visually confirming the special symbol thereafter Is to provide.

  The above object of the present invention is achieved by the following means. The parentheses indicate corresponding elements in the embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to this.

(1) Special symbol display means (special symbol display device 38) for displaying special symbols;
A decorative symbol display means (liquid crystal display device 36) arranged at a position where a decorative symbol is displayed and the display area is larger than that of the special symbol and is easily visible;
A main control unit (20) for overall control of game operations;
An effect control unit (24) that controls the effect by the effect device including the decorative symbol display means based on a control command from the main control unit;
Have
The main control unit
Lottery means (S327) for lottery of a plurality of types of hits that provide a special gaming state advantageous to the player, when the start condition is established,
Special symbol display control means (S209, S302 to S310) for causing the special symbol display means to variably display and stop the special symbol based on the lottery result by the lottery means;
Stop symbol information transmitting means (S328, S331) for transmitting special symbol specifying information (special symbol designating command) for specifying a special symbol to be variably displayed on the special symbol display means in a one-to-one relationship with the special symbol type. When,
Special game state granting means (S210) for granting the special game state to the player on condition that the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a special manner on the special symbol display means;
Game state transition in which the gaming state after the special gaming state is ended is shifted to either a high probability state or a relatively low low probability state in which the winning lottery probability is relatively high based on the winning type. Means (S329, S352, S464, FIG. 25),
In the type of winning, when winning the winning lottery under the low probability state, the first winning state (latency probability variation big hit) in which the gaming state after the special gaming state is transferred to the high probability state, And a second hit (small hit) in which the low probability state is continued,
The production control unit
Decorative symbol display control means (S605 to S609, S711, S721, S741) for causing the decorative symbol display means to variably display and stop the decorative symbol corresponding to the variation of the special symbol;
Production mode control means (S701) for shifting the production mode in the high probability state after the first hit and the low probability state after the second hit to the concealment production mode that produces the same or similar production;
Means (S724) for receiving the special symbol specifying information (special symbol designation command) transmitted from the stop symbol information transmitting means and grasping the type of the special symbol;
A winning symbol history storage means (S725) for storing the type of the special symbol ascertained so as to be usable as a part of information relating to past winnings;
Special symbol notification control means for causing the decorative symbol display means to display the special symbol grasped about the first hit or the second hit which is the previous hit based on the special symbol stored in the hit symbol history storage means (S743, S754)
A ball game machine characterized by that.

  (2) The special symbol notification control means, during the concealment effect mode, over the partial period, based on the special symbol stored in the winning symbol history storage means, the first hit Or the special symbol grasped | ascertained about the said 2nd hit is displayed on the said decoration symbol display means, The bullet ball game machine as described in said (1) characterized by the above-mentioned.

  (3) The special symbol notification control means causes the decorative symbol display means to display the special symbol grasped about the immediately preceding hit for the entire period during the concealment effect mode. The ball game machine described in 1.

  (4) It further includes manual operation means (frame effect button 13) connected to the effect control unit, and the special symbol notification control means is based on the operation of the manual operation means during the concealment effect mode. (S752 to S753) The bullet ball game machine according to (1), wherein the special symbol grasped about the immediately preceding hit is displayed on the decorative symbol display means.

  (5) It further has manual operation means connected to the effect control unit, and the special symbol notification control means accepts the operation of the manual operation means up to a predetermined number of times during the concealment effect mode, and within the predetermined number of times. The bullet ball game machine according to (1), wherein each time the manual operation means is operated, a special symbol grasped about the immediately preceding hit is displayed on the decorative symbol display means.

  (6) It further has a manual operation means connected to the effect control section, and the effect control section is based on a special symbol stored in the winning symbol history storage means when the manual operation means is operated. (1) characterized in that it has special symbol notification control means for causing the decorative symbol display means to display the special symbol grasped about the first hit or the second hit which is the previous hit. The bullet ball game machine described.

  (7) It further has manual operation means connected to the effect control section, and the effect control section is stored in the winning symbol history storage means when the manual operation means is operated during a demonstration screen display period. Special symbol notification control means for causing the decorative symbol display means to display the special symbol grasped about the first hit or the second hit which is the last hit based on the special symbol being The bullet ball game machine according to (1) above.

  (8) The special symbol notification control means causes the decorative symbol display means to display the special symbol grasped about the immediately preceding hit together with other special symbols grasped about the previous hit. The bullet ball game machine according to (6) or (7) above.

  (9) The special symbol notification control means causes the decorative symbol display means to display the special symbol grasped about the immediately preceding hit together with other special symbols grasped about the previous hit in the hit history image. The bullet ball game machine according to (6) or (7) above, characterized in that

  (10) The above (9) is characterized in that the hit history image includes information such as the number of rotations at the time of hitting, decorative symbols, production contents, and special symbols at the time of hitting in a list format. The bullet ball game machine described.

  (11) The special symbol notification control means receives the operation of the manual operation means up to a predetermined number of times, and displays the special symbol grasped about the immediately preceding hit every time the manual operation means is operated within the predetermined number of times. The bullet ball game machine according to the above (6) or (7), which is displayed on a symbol display means.

  (12) The special symbol notification control means causes the decorative symbol display means to display the special symbol grasped about the immediately preceding hit when the manual operation means is operated a predetermined number of times or more. The bullet ball game machine according to (6) or (7).

  (13) When the special symbol notification control means wins a lottery performed by turning on the manual operation means, the special symbol grasping about the immediately preceding hit is displayed on the decorative symbol display means. The bullet ball game machine according to the above (6) or (7), wherein

  According to the present invention, even when the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display device is overlooked at the time of hitting, the manual operation unit is operated without operating the manual operation unit during the subsequent concealment effect or the demonstration screen display period. Can be displayed on the decorative symbol display means used for displaying the decorative symbol, so that the special symbol can be confirmed later.

It is a perspective view of the front side which shows the external appearance of the ball game machine which concerns on this invention. It is a figure which shows the front side of the game board of the ball game machine which concerns on this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the control apparatus of the ball game machine which concerns on this invention. In the bullet ball game machine according to the present invention, it is a diagram schematically showing a signal system in which a special symbol type is transmitted based on a special symbol designation command and displayed on a special symbol display device and a liquid crystal display device. It is the figure which showed the corresponding | compatible list | wrist and the special symbol designation | designated command in the ball game machine which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the main process side main process of the ball game machine which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the main control side timer interruption process which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol management process which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the starting port check process in the special symbol management process based on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change start process in the special symbol management process based on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the hit | judging determination process in the special symbol fluctuation start process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol stop symbol setting process in the special symbol fluctuation start process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the game state transfer preparation process in the special symbol change start process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the detail of the special symbol fluctuation pattern setting process in the special symbol fluctuation start process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change process during the special symbol management process which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change stop process during the special symbol management process which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol display data update process in the special symbol management process based on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the special fluctuation prize-winning apparatus management process based on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the small hit process in the special fluctuation prize-winning apparatus management process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the big hit start process in the special fluctuation winning device management process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special variable prize apparatus operation start pre-processing in the special variable prize apparatus management process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special variable prize apparatus operating process in the special variable prize apparatus management process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the process during special variable prize apparatus operation stoppage in the special variable prize apparatus management process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the jackpot end process in the special fluctuation winning device management process of FIG. It is a figure which shows the game state transfer setting table at the time of jackpot completion of the ball game machine which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the main process by the side of the production control which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the command reception interruption process by the presentation control side which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interruption process by the side of the production control which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the jackpot end command reception process based on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the fluctuation pattern designation | designated command reception process based on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol designation | designated command reception process based on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the input monitoring process in FIG. It is the figure which illustrated the hit history display list concerning the embodiment of the present invention. It is the figure which illustrated the hit special symbol table which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the fluctuation pattern designation | designated command reception process which concerns on other embodiment of this invention. It is the schematic which showed the example of a display of the special symbol type information which concerns on this invention. It is the schematic which showed the other example of a display of the special symbol type information which concerns on this invention. It is the schematic which showed the other example of a display of the special symbol type information which concerns on this invention. It is the schematic which showed the other example of a display of the special symbol type information which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the input monitoring process which concerns on other embodiment of this invention. It is the schematic which showed the example of a display of the hit history image which concerns on this invention. It is the schematic which showed the other example of a display of the hit history image which concerns on this invention.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of a ball game machine according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

<1. Outline of configuration: FIGS. 1 and 2>
FIG. 1 is a front perspective view showing an appearance of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  The illustrated pachinko gaming machine 1 has a frame-shaped front frame 2 attached to the front surface of a wooden outer frame 4 so that it can be opened and closed, and a game board 3 in a game board storage frame (not shown) attached to the back surface of the front frame 2. And the game area 3a formed on the surface of the game board 3 faces the opening of the front frame 2. The game area 3a is an area surrounded by a ball guide rail 5 (see FIG. 2) disposed on the surface of the game board 3. A glass door frame 6 supporting transparent glass is provided on the front side of the game area 3a.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 also has a front operation panel 7 disposed on the lower side of the glass door frame 6. The front operation panel 7 is provided with an upper tray unit 8, and the upper tray unit 8 is formed with an upper tray 9 for storing discharged game balls. The front operation panel 7 is provided with a ball lending button 11 and a prepaid card discharge button 12 (card return button 12). The upper tray surface portion of the upper tray 9 is provided with a push button type frame effect button 13 that can be operated by turning on the built-in lamp and that can be changed when the built-in lamp is turned on. It has been. The upper tray 9 is provided with a ball removal button 14 for removing the game balls stored in the upper tray 9 below the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  A firing operation handle 15 for operating the firing unit is provided on the right end side of the front operation panel 7. Speakers 46 that generate sound effects are provided on both sides of the upper part of the front frame 2 and on the upper side of the firing operation handle 15. Furthermore, a decoration lamp 45 is provided at various locations on the glass door frame 6 to produce a production effect by light decoration.

  Next, the game area 3a of the game board 3 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, in the substantially central portion of the game board 3, a variable display of symbols (decorative symbols) by numbers, characters, symbols, etc. is independently performed in three (left, middle, right) display areas. A liquid crystal display device 36 (LCD: Liquid Crystal Display) as a possible image display device is provided. Directly below the liquid crystal display device 36, an upper start port 34, which is a first special symbol start port, and a lower start port 35, which is a second special symbol start port, are arranged up and down. Are provided with special symbol start opening sensors 34a and 35a (see FIG. 3) for detecting a winning ball. The lower start opening 35 is provided with a pair of left and right movable wing pieces 47 so that the lower start opening 35 can be opened and closed, and constitutes a so-called tulip-shaped electric accessory (ordinary variable winning device 41).

  A normal symbol start port 37 composed of a gate is provided on the left side above the upper start port 34. The normal symbol start port 37 detects a game ball passing through the normal symbol start port 37a (see FIG. 3). ) Is arranged.

  Below the lower start opening 35 is disposed a special variable prize winning device 42 configured to be able to open and close the big prize opening 40 by an open door 42b, and inside the big prize opening sensor 40a (detecting a winning ball) 3) is provided.

  A total of four general winning ports 43 are arranged on both sides of the special variable winning device 42, and a general winning port sensor 43a (see FIG. 3) for detecting the passage of the game ball is formed in each of them.

  The upper start opening 34, the lower start opening 35, the normal symbol start opening 37, and the general winning opening 43 described above are winning means arranged in the game area where the game balls flow down, and special prizes provided for each of them. The symbol start opening sensors 34a and 35a, the normal symbol start opening sensor 37a, and the general winning opening sensor 43a are winning detection switches for detecting a game ball that has entered the winning means. These winning detection switches can be constituted by non-contact switches such as photo switches and proximity switches, and contact switches such as micro switches.

  Further, in the vicinity of the upper right edge of the game area 3a, a special symbol display device 38 constituted by arranging two 7-segment indicators (with dots) side by side corresponding to the upper start opening 34 and the lower start opening 35, and 2 A normal symbol display device 39 in which two LEDs are arranged horizontally is provided. Further, in the game area 3a, there are a center ornament 48, a windmill 44 as a game ball drop direction changing member, a plurality of game nails (not shown), a plurality of light emitting devices (lamp, LED, etc .: not shown), and the like. It is arranged. Further, a lamp display device such as a decorative lamp 45 and an LED device are also provided in the vicinity of both end portions of the game board 3.

  Based on the winning of the game ball in the upper start opening 34 or the lower start opening 35, the main control unit 20 (see FIG. 3) performs a lottery (big win lottery and symbol lottery) related to the big hit by random number lottery. A special symbol is displayed on the special symbol display device 38 in accordance with the lottery result, a special symbol variation display game is started, and the result is displayed on the special symbol display device 38 after a predetermined time has elapsed. . At this time, the decorative symbols are variably displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 in a form linked to the special symbol variation display game, and the decorative symbol variation display game is started. After the predetermined time has elapsed, the special symbol variation display device 38 is selected by lottery. The result is displayed, and the result is also displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 by a decorative pattern.

  In the present embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 36 constitutes an image display device. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and as the image display device, a plasma display (PDP: Plasma Display Panel), an electronic paper display, an organic EL display (OELD: Organic). An electroluminescent display) may be used. The liquid crystal display device 36 displays various effects as images under the control of an effect control unit 24 (see FIG. 3) described later. That is, an effect reflecting the lottery result in the special symbol variation display game, that is, a decorative symbol is variably displayed, and the decorative symbol variation display game is displayed. Production, reach production and background production).

  Therefore, when the result of the special symbol variation display game on the special symbol display device 38 is “big hit”, the result of the decorative symbol variation display game on the liquid crystal display device 36 also reflects “big hit” appears. Is done. The special symbol display device 38 displays a special symbol indicating a big hit in a predetermined display mode (for example, two 7-segment displays are all in the “7” display state) and is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36. , "Left", "Medium", "Right" display areas, a predetermined display mode (for example, each of "Left", "Middle", "Right") in which the decorative symbols reflect the above-mentioned lottery lottery results on the hit effective line In the display area, the three decorative symbols are stopped and displayed at the display states “7”, “7”, and “7”.

  When the big hit is made, the special variable prize winning device solenoid 42a (see FIG. 3) is actuated to open the open door 42b, whereby the big prize opening 40 is controlled to open and close in a predetermined pattern, and the normal gaming state A big hit game is generated as a special game state that is more advantageous to the player. In the big hit game, the open door 42b is opened for a predetermined time (for example, 29 seconds) and the big winning opening 40 is opened, or until the predetermined number (for example, 9) of game balls has won, Is opened, and then a predetermined number of times (for example, maximum 15R (round)) such as the opening door 42b is closed for a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) and the special winning opening 40 is closed (round game). It is supposed to be repeated.

  The jackpot game is started after the symbol indicating the jackpot is confirmed and displayed in the symbol variation display game. When the big hit starts, the opening effect by the big hit start fanfare is first performed, and after the opening effect is finished, the round game in which the big winning opening 40 is opened is performed a plurality of times with the predetermined number of rounds as an upper limit. In addition, during a round game, a corresponding round effect is performed. Then, after the specified number of rounds is over, the ending effect by the big hit end fanfare is performed, and the big hit ends.

  In addition, based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the normal symbol start opening 37 of the gate, the main control unit 20 performs a lottery (auxiliary per lottery) related to the subsistence by random number lottery. In accordance with the lottery result, the normal symbol represented by the two LEDs 39 is variably displayed on the normal symbol display device 39, and the normal symbol variation display game is started. The stop display is made by a combination of lighting or a combination of both lighting. If the result of the normal symbol variation display game on the normal symbol display device 39 is “per assist”, the display part of the normal symbol display device 39 is in a predetermined pattern (for example, both of the two LEDs 39 are lit). Stop display.

  When the auxiliary hit is reached, the normal variation prize winning device solenoid 41a (see FIG. 3) for driving the left and right movable blade pieces 47 is activated, and the movable blade pieces 47 are formed in a reverse “C” shape. The lower start opening 35 is opened or expanded so that the game ball can easily flow in, and an auxiliary game state advantageous to the player (hereinafter referred to as “general power open game”) occurs. In this general electric open game, the movable wing piece 47 of the normal variation winning device 41 is opened for a predetermined time (for example, 0.2 seconds) and the lower start opening 35 is opened, or a predetermined number (for example, 5). ) Until the game ball has won the normal variation winning device 41 (lower start opening 35), and then the lower start opening 35 is opened, and then the movable wing piece 47 is closed for a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds). The operation of closing 35 is repeated a predetermined number of times (for example, once).

  Also, when the game ball wins the lower start opening 35 during the above-mentioned open game, the special symbol variation display game is similarly performed, and the decorative symbol variation display game is performed accordingly. The game balls that have not won the winning holes are discharged from the game area 3a through the out holes 49.

  If there is a detection signal input from the special symbol start port sensor 34a, 35a or the normal symbol start port sensor 37a during the special symbol variation display game or the normal symbol variation display game, Based on the detection signal, start memory (so-called operation hold balls), which is data related to the start right for playing each variation display game, is stored up to a predetermined upper limit, except for those involved during variation display. Then, in order to make the starting memory number clear to the player, it is displayed as an image at an appropriate position of the pachinko gaming machine 1 or on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36. Normally, the variation display game for each start memory is executed and controlled in the order in which the start memories are generated. In this embodiment, as the predetermined upper limit, up to four start memories for special symbols and normal symbols are stored in the RAM 203 (see FIG. 3) provided in the main control unit 20, and the variation of the special symbol or normal symbol is determined. Held as a count.

(1-1. Game state after the end of the game)
After each winning game described above is completed, the game state is shifted to a predetermined gaming state based on the winning winning game state and the winning type. In the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, there are four types of game states: a normal game state, a probability variation state, a latent probability variation state, and a short time state as internal game states (game states managed on the main control unit 20 side). Is provided. First, in order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, functions (means) related to the occurrence of various gaming states will be described.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment has a probability variation (hereinafter referred to as “probability variation”) function in which the main control board 20 (main control CPU 201: see FIG. 3) plays a functional part. There are two types, a probability changing function related to a special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “special symbol probability changing function”) and a probability changing function related to a normal symbol (hereinafter referred to as “normal symbol probability changing function”).

  The special symbol probability changing function changes the jackpot probability variation state (hereinafter referred to as “big hit probability variation”) by changing the lottery probability of big hit from a low probability (for example, 1/399) to a high probability (for example, 1 / 39.9). This is a function for generating a state. In a gaming state in which the special symbol probability changing function is operating, that is, in a big hit probability changing state, the big hit lottery probability is changed to a high probability state with a high probability, and the big hit is likely to occur. Therefore, it can be said that the gaming state expected by the player is a gaming state in which the special symbol probability changing function is operating.

  The normal symbol probability changing function is a function that changes the probability per lot for auxiliary assistance from a normal probability that is low probability (for example, 1/256) to a high probability (for example, 255/256) to generate an auxiliary chance probability variation state. . In the game state (probability change per assist) in which the normal symbol probability change function is operating, the lottery probability per auxiliary will change to a high probability and the sub-attendance is likely to occur. Thus, an operating rate improvement state is achieved in which the operating rate of the movable wing piece 47 per unit time is improved compared to the normal gaming state. In the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the operation timing of the normal symbol probability changing function is synchronized with the activation timing of the special symbol short-time function described later, and the termination timing is also synchronized with the termination timing of the special symbol time-shortening function. It has become.

  Furthermore, the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment has a function of shortening the variation time (hereinafter referred to as “time reduction”), which is functioned by the main control CPU 271. This includes time reduction functions related to special symbols (hereinafter referred to as “special symbol time reduction functions”) and normal time reduction functions (hereinafter referred to as “normal symbol time reduction functions”). There are two types.

  The special symbol time reduction function is a function for generating a special symbol time reduction state in which the variation time of the special symbol in the special symbol fluctuation display game is shortened. In the game state in which the special symbol time shortening function is in operation, the time of one special symbol variation display game, that is, the variation time of the special symbol (the time from when the special symbol starts to change until the final display) is average For example, in the case of time or reach loss variation, the time is reduced from 30 seconds (when the special symbol time reduction function is not in operation) to 5 seconds (when the special symbol time reduction function is in operation). In other words, the average variation time of the special symbol is shortened compared with the normal gaming state, and the lottery number improving state is improved in which the number of big hit lotteries per unit time is improved as compared with the normal gaming state.

  The normal symbol short-time function is a function for generating a normal symbol short-time state in which the variation time of the normal symbol in the normal symbol variation display game is shortened. Under the gaming state in which the normal symbol time reduction function is activated, the time of one normal symbol fluctuation display game (the time from when the normal symbol starts to change until it is fixedly displayed) is, for example, 10 seconds (normal symbol) The time-saving function is shortened to 1 second (when the normal symbol time-saving function is in operation), and the lottery frequency improving state is improved in which the number of lotteries per auxiliary time per unit time is higher than in the normal gaming state. In the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the operation timing of the normal symbol time-shortening function is synchronized with the operation timing of the special symbol time-shortening function, and the termination timing is also synchronized with the termination timing of the special symbol time-shortening function. It has become.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment has an open extension function in which the main control unit 20 serves as its function unit.

  The open extension function is a function of generating an open extension state in which the movable blade piece 47 of the normal variation winning device 41 is opened and the number of times of opening is extended. Under a gaming state (a big hit probability change state) in which the opening extension function is operating, the opening operation period of the movable wing piece 47 is extended from 0.2 seconds to 1.7 seconds, for example, and the opening / closing frequency is, for example, once (opened) The operating rate is improved two times (when the extended extension function is in operation) from when the extension function is not in operation), and the operating rate improvement state in which the operating rate of the movable wing piece 47 per unit time is improved compared to the normal gaming state; Become. In the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the operation trigger for the opening extension function is synchronized with the operation trigger for the special symbol short-time function, and the termination trigger is also synchronized with the termination trigger for the special symbol short-time function. ing. Thus, under the gaming state in which the open extension function is in operation, the normal symbol probability changing function and the normal symbol time-shortening function are also in operation, so that a gaming state in which the operating rate of the movable wing piece 47 is remarkably improved occurs.

  The game state can be changed by operating one or more types of the functions described above. Here, in the present embodiment, the operation triggers of the normal symbol probability changing function, the normal symbol shortening function, and the open extension function are synchronized with the operation trigger of the special symbol shortening function. In the following, for convenience of explanation, the gaming state in which the special symbol probability changing function, the special symbol time shortening function, the normal symbol probability changing function, the normal symbol time shortening function, and the open extension function are referred to as “probability changing state (probability changing)”. The gaming state in which the special symbol probability changing function is removed from the function is referred to as “short-time state (short time)”, and the gaming state in which only the special symbol probability changing function is operated is referred to as “latency probability changing state (latency probability changing)”. The state in which the function is not in operation is referred to as “normal game state (normal state or normal state)”.

(1-2. High base gaming state)
In the present embodiment, the functions related to the above normal symbols, that is, the normal symbol probability changing function, the normal symbol short-time function, and the open extension function are synchronized with the operation trigger of the special symbol short-time function, so the three functions are the same. It will work at the moment. However, when attention is paid to the normal symbol probability changing function, the normal symbol time-shortening function, and the open extension function, respectively, when at least one of these functions is activated, the operating rate of the movable blade piece 47 is improved. Since the operating rate is improved and the winning frequency to the lower start opening 35 is increased, the game condition is that the starting condition of the special symbol variation display game for deriving the big win lottery result is higher than the normal gaming state. It will shift to the “high base game state (starting condition improved state)”. As used herein, the “high base gaming state” refers to a gaming state when a function related to a normal symbol is operated as described above, and a function related to a special symbol, that is, a special symbol probability changing function and a special symbol time-saving function. It is different from the gaming state when one of them is activated.

  Focusing on the special symbol related functions individually, when the special symbol probability changing function is activated, a big hit is more likely to occur than the normal gaming state, that is, the winning probability of the big hit lottery is higher than the normal gaming state. When the special symbol short-time function is activated (when the big hit probability variation state is entered), the special symbol variation display game has a “special symbol short-time gaming state” in which the digestion time of the special symbol variation display game is faster than the normal gaming state. In this respect, it is distinguished from the “high base gaming state” in which the starting condition of the special symbol variation display game is higher than the normal gaming state.

  In the present embodiment, as an example of the “high base gaming state”, a gaming state provided with an open extension function that significantly improves the operating rate of the movable wing piece 47 is treated as a “high base gaming state”. The movable wing piece 47 of the normal variation winning device 41 corresponds to a state in which the open extension function is not provided under the “high base game state” in which the open extension function is provided (in this embodiment, “normal game state”). Compared to (Yes), the player operates in a high base gaming state that is advantageous to the player.

(1-3. Type of jackpot)
Next, jackpot types managed on the main control unit side will be described.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the types of jackpots to be drawn in the special symbol fluctuation display game are “15R non-probable big jackpots” for non-probable big jackpots, “15R probable big jackpots” and “15R latency” for probable big jackpots. “Probable big hit”.

  Of these jackpot games with big hits, 15R non-probable big hits and 15R probable big hits have a 30-second opening time for the big winning opening 40 during one round game as a profit state. (The number of times the big prize opening 40 is opened) is the maximum prescribed number of 15 rounds. In the 15R latent probability variation big hit, 15 rounds are similarly opened, but the opening time of the big winning opening 40 during one round game is set to 0.1 seconds shorter than the above. Therefore, the 15R probability variation big hit is a big hit with a relatively large profit state, and the 15R latent probability variable big hit is a specific big hit (specific hit) with a relatively small profit state.

  In addition, after the big hit game ends, a special game state (privilege game state) corresponding to the big hit is generated. Specifically, the “probability change state” occurs until the next big hit is confirmed (a big hit game is generated) for the 15R probability change big hit, and the latent probability change state occurs until the next big hit for the 15R latent probability change big hit. In the probable big hit, a “short-time state” occurs until the special symbol variation display game number of times reaches the end of a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) or until the big hit is determined within the predetermined number of times. ing. Here, since the open extension function is given during the probability changing state or the short time state, these gaming states are “high base gaming states”.

  In addition to the above-mentioned big hits, there is provided a “small hit” to which a hit state (small win game) is given in which the big winning opening 40 is opened and closed 15 times in substantially the same game operation mode as in the case of the 15R latent probability variation big hit. is there. The “small hit” is a hit other than the big hit 15R probability variation big hit and the specific hit 15R latent probability variation big hit, and performs a hit operation that approximates the specific hit. The small hit game is performed in a game operation mode in which it is difficult for the player to distinguish the difference from the case of 15R latent probability variation big hit.

  Therefore, the game value given to the player during the small hit game is substantially the same as the game value given to the player during the big hit game due to the 15R latent probability change big hit. However, after the small hit game is over, the gaming state at the time of winning the small hit is continued as it is, and in this respect, the nature is different from the big hit in which the above-mentioned special gaming state occurs. For example, when the “small hit” is won during the normal gaming state, the gaming state after the end of the small winning game is the normal gaming state that is the gaming state at the time of the small hit winning. Hereinafter, unless otherwise required, the small hits are treated in the same row as one of the big hit types without being distinguished from other big hits.

  When one of the above-mentioned jackpots is won, the special symbol reflecting the lottery result is displayed as it is for the special symbol in the special symbol display device 38. In other words, the special symbol display device 38 displays a special symbol for notifying a probable variation big hit, a special symbol for notifying a non-probable big hit, or a special symbol notifying that there is a possibility of either a probable big hit or a non-probable big hit. . On the other hand, a symbol game corresponding to the special symbol variation display game is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 using another symbol called a decorative symbol.

  In addition, for decorative symbols, even if the winning jackpot is usually a promising big hit, it is not always displayed with a decorative symbol that makes the probable big jackpot obvious from the beginning, and the special symbol is synchronized with the fluctuation stoppage. Production control such as final display of the decorative pattern is performed. Normally, the player enjoys the game while watching the decorative symbol variation display game on the liquid crystal display device 36. Therefore, even if the game result is a decorative symbol indicating the non-probable big hit type, the player is expected to have a big odd hit. This is to leave a feeling.

(1-4. Production mode)
Next, the production mode will be described. The pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment has a “normal effect mode” for notifying that the game state is an uncertain change state as the effect mode of the effect related to the current game state to be notified, and the jackpot lottery probability. Conceal the win-winning probability state and the “probability confirmation effect mode” that produces an effect that clearly informs that it is in a high probability state, and the “short time effect mode” that produces an effect that definitely informs that the time is short A special effect mode for setting a state, specifically, a “concealment effect mode” that conceals the current gaming state and gives the player a sense of expectation of the latent probability changing state is provided.

  In the present embodiment, the above-described plurality of effect modes are set, and it is configured to be able to go back and forth between the effect modes. Specifically, if the transition destination is in the probability variation state, the transition control is performed to the “probability modification effect mode”, if it is in the short time state, to “time reduction effect mode”, and if in the latent probability variation state, the transition control is performed to the hidden effect mode (genuine) . When the normal winning state is maintained by winning the small hit, the transition control to the concealment effect mode (gase) is performed.

<2. Control device: Fig. 3>
FIG. 3 is a control block diagram showing an outline of a control device that performs gaming machine control in accordance with the progress of the game as described above.

  This control device is centered on a main control unit 20 that controls overall game operations and an effect control unit 24 that receives effect control commands from the main control unit 20 and performs effect control on images, light, and sound. Composed. The effect control unit 24 is connected to a liquid crystal display device 36 as an image display device. In the present specification, the term “production device” widely refers to devices that produce an image, light, sound, or operation of the movable body, such as a liquid crystal display device 36, a lamp, an LED, a sound generator, and a movable body.

  The main control unit 20 is connected to an external concentration terminal board 21 having external terminals for outputting various information from the main control unit 20 to the outside of the gaming machine. Furthermore, a payout control board 29 is connected to the main control unit 20, and a launch control board 28 for controlling the launching device 32 and a game ball payout apparatus 19 are connected to the payout control board 29. Reference numeral 31 denotes a power supply board. The power supply board 31 is connected to an external power supply (not shown), generates a required power supply from an AC voltage (AC24V: main power supply) supplied from a transformer, and is applied to each control board. Supply. In FIG. 3, the power supply route is omitted.

(2-1. Main control unit 20)
The main control unit 20 is equipped with a microprocessor incorporating a main control CPU 201, a main control ROM 202 storing a control program and control data describing a series of gaming machine control procedures, and a main control in which a work area is formed. A RAM 203 is mounted to constitute a one-chip microcomputer. Although not shown, a CTC (Counter Timer Circuit) having a function of generating a pulse output with a constant period and a function of measuring time, and an interrupt controller circuit for giving an interrupt signal to the CPU are provided.

  The main control unit 20 includes a special symbol start port sensor 34 a that detects a winning at the upper start port 34, a special symbol start port sensor 35 a that detects a win at the lower start port 35, and a normal symbol start port 37. An ordinary symbol start opening sensor 37a for detecting passage, a general winning opening sensor 43a for detecting a winning at the general winning opening 43, and a large winning opening sensor 40a for detecting a winning at the large winning opening 40 are connected. The control unit 20 can receive each of these detection signals.

  In addition, the main control unit 20 includes a special symbol display device 38, a normal symbol display device 39, a normal variation winning device solenoid 41a for controlling opening and closing of the movable wing piece 47 of the lower start port 35, and a wide of the large winning port 40. A special variable prize winning device solenoid 42a for controlling opening / closing of the open door 42b is connected, and the main control unit 20 can transmit a control signal for controlling each device.

  In addition, the main control unit 20 draws whether it is “big hit” that generates a special gaming state advantageous to the player or “losing” that does not cause this special gaming state, and responds to the success / failure information that is the lottery result. Then, a variation pattern and a stop symbol of the special symbol are determined, and an effect control command including at least the lottery result and the variation pattern, and a special symbol designation command based on the determined stop symbol of the special symbol are created, and the effect control unit 24 It is the composition which transmits to.

  The effect control command from the main control unit 20 is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 by one-way communication. This is to prevent an illegal signal from an external goto action from being input to the main control unit 20 via the effect control unit 24.

(2-2. Production control unit 24)
The effect control unit 24 is equipped with a microprocessor incorporating an effect control CPU 241, an effect control ROM 242 storing a control program describing effect control procedures, effect data, and the like, an effect control RAM 243 in which a work area is formed, It is equipped with. Although not shown, a sound source IC, a CTC, an interrupt controller circuit, and the like are provided. The main roles of the effect control unit 24 are reception of effect control commands from the main control unit 20, effect pattern lottery, control of the liquid crystal display device 36, sound control of the speaker 46, frame lamp / LED light emission control, movable These include body movement control and notification of various errors.

  The effect control unit 24 includes an optical display control unit for the light display device 45a including the decorative lamp 45 and the LED, and an acoustic control unit for the sound generation device 46a including the speaker 46, in order to perform the effect processing for light and sound. ing.

  In addition, in response to the effect control command, the effect control unit 24 draws an effect pattern corresponding to the variation pattern, and causes the effect display to be displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36.

  The effect control unit 24 is connected to a frame effect button 13 serving as an effect intervention operation means. The frame effect button 13 is a push button that can be operated by the player. When the player participates in the stop button chance game in the special effect mode, or when the player participates in the promotion effect game of the player participation type, etc. And operated by the player.

  In addition, the effect control unit 24 generates a control data necessary for performing display control of the liquid crystal display device 36 and outputs the control data to the VDP, and a liquid crystal control including a program describing an operation procedure of the liquid crystal control CPU. It has a ROM and a liquid crystal control RAM that functions as a work area and a buffer memory.

  The effect control unit 24 includes a video display processor (VDP) that is connected to the liquid crystal control CPU and performs image expansion processing, an image data ROM that stores image data required for image expansion by the VDP, and a VDP. A VRAM or the like for temporarily storing the image data developed by is also provided.

  Information on the gaming state is first required for a special symbol variation pattern based on the result of the jackpot lottery (whether it is a big hit or a loss), the current gaming state, the number of balls held for operation, a decorative symbol to be stopped based on the lottery result, etc. Basic information is transmitted from the main control unit 20 to the effect control unit 24 by an effect control command.

  On the effect control unit 24 side, an effect pattern corresponding to the effect scenario instructed by the effect control command sent from the main control unit 20 is determined by lottery from a number of effect patterns prepared in advance. A control signal instructing execution of the effect pattern is sent from the effect control unit 24 to the liquid crystal display device 36, the sound generator 46a, and the light display device 45a. Thereby, the reproduction of the image on the liquid crystal display device 36 corresponding to the effect pattern, the reproduction of the sound effect corresponding to the effect pattern, and the lighting and blinking drive of the decoration lamp 45 and the LED are realized.

  The production control command is composed of a 1-byte length mode (MODE) and an event (EVENT) of the same 1-byte length. When these pieces of information are transmitted as valid, the mode (MODE) and the event (EVENT) Corresponding to each, a strobe signal is output. That is, when there is a command to be transmitted, the main control CPU 201 sets and outputs mode (MODE) information for transmitting the command to the effect control unit 24, and the first strobe signal after a predetermined time has elapsed from this setting. Is sent. Further, event (EVENT) information is set and output after the elapse of a predetermined time from the transmission of the strobe signal, and the second time of the strobe signal is transmitted after the elapse of the predetermined time from the setting. When the strobe signal is transmitted, the effect control CPU 241 generates an interrupt corresponding to the strobe signal, and receives a command by this interrupt processing. The strobe signal is controlled by the main control CPU 201 to be in an active state for a predetermined period during which the effect control CPU 241 can reliably receive a command.

(2-3. Special symbol display system: FIGS. 4 and 5)
FIG. 4 shows a special symbol transmitted from the main control unit 20 in addition to a signal system in which a special symbol reflecting the lottery result is displayed on a special symbol display device 38 including a 7-segment display as a special symbol display means. It is the figure which showed roughly the structure of the bullet ball game machine which has a signal system by which said special symbol is also displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 which is a decoration symbol display means based on specific information.

  When hitting, the main control unit 20 transmits a special symbol designating command, which is special symbol specifying information, in a one-to-one relationship with the special symbol type (step S331). The effect control unit 24 grasps the type of the special symbol based on the received special symbol specifying information, and stores it as a part of information related to past hits (step S725). Then, during the concealment effect mode, the special symbol grasped about the latent probability variation big hit or the small hit which is the last hit is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 as the decorative symbol display means irrespective of or related to the operation of the frame effect button 13. (Step S743). In the demonstration screen display period, the hit history image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 under a predetermined condition.

  The special symbol designation command transmitted from the main control unit 20 to the effect control unit 24 is assigned one special symbol designation command for each special symbol type (7-segment display pattern). In the case of this embodiment, as shown in the hit type and special symbol designation command correspondence list in FIG. 5, the code “#” which is the back number of the special symbol designation command for the loss, 15R probability variable big hit, and 15R normal big hit (15R non-probable big hit). B101H, “B102H”, “B103H” are 15R latent accuracy hits (15R latency probability variation hits) 1 to 15R latent probability hits per 15 to 15R latent probability hits, and the codes “B111H” to “B11AH” of special symbol designation commands are also 1 to 1 per small hit. The special symbol designation command codes “B121H” to “B12AH” are associated with the small hit 10.

  In this way, one special symbol designation command code is associated with one special symbol type, and a special symbol designation command having a one-to-one relationship with the special symbol type is transmitted from the main control unit 20 to the effect control unit 24. By doing so, it is possible to store each of the special symbol types separately from each other and display them individually on the liquid crystal display device 36 thereafter.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the special symbol designation command conventionally assigns a common special symbol designation command “B004H” with respect to “15R latency probability variation big hit 1” to “15R latent probability variation big hit 10”, A common special symbol designation command “B005H” is assigned and transmitted with respect to “1” to “10 per small portion”. Therefore, in the conventional case, although there are roughly five distinctions of types of loss, 15R probability big hit, 15R normal big hit, 15R latent big hit, and small hit types, "15R latent probability big hit 1" to "15R latent probability big hit 10" There is no detailed distinction between each other and between “1 per small portion” to “10 per small portion”.

  By the way, when the big win of either 15R latency probability variation big hit or small hit is won, the special symbol display device 38 displays the special symbol type corresponding to those hits. However, the stop mode of the special symbol type (7-segment display pattern) is solved when the next symbol variation starts. Therefore, the period during which the special symbol type (7-segment display pattern) is displayed is very short and disappears immediately.

  In order to solve this problem, in the case of the pachinko machine of the present embodiment, a special symbol type indicating the type of jackpot that was won immediately before is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 when “predetermined conditions are met”. Configured as follows. Therefore, the player looks at the special symbol type displayed on the special symbol display device 38 and determines whether or not the special symbol type, that is, the 7-segment display pattern (latent probability fixed pattern) belonging to the latent probability variation big hit. Can be determined.

  Here, “establishment of the predetermined condition” means, for example, a specific effect mode in which the player is concealed from the player whether the game state is after a big hit or after a small hit. (B) that the frame effect button 13 has been pressed within the maximum allowable limit during the concealment effect mode that is shifted to after the game; ) The frame effect button 13 has been pressed more than a predetermined number of times during the concealment effect mode that shifts after winning game, and (d) the frame effect button 13 has been pressed during the period during which the demonstration effect screen is displayed. is there. In addition, regarding the contents to be displayed, regardless of whether the hit is the latent probability variation big hit or small hit with respect to the previous hit in the current game, (A) a special symbol grasped about the previous hit is displayed. B) The special symbol grasped about the last hit is displayed together with other special symbols grasped about the previous hit. (C) The special symbol obtained about the last hit is displayed for the previous hit. For example, a hit history image is displayed together with other special symbols that have been grasped.

<3. Processing on the main control side: FIGS. 6 to 25>
Next, processing contents on the main control unit 20 side will be described with reference to FIGS.

(3-1. Main control side main process: FIG. 6)
When the pachinko gaming machine 1 is powered on, a voltage is supplied to each control board by the power supply board 31, and the main control CPU 201 starts the main process on the main control side shown in FIG.

  In the main control side main process, first, a necessary initial setting process before starting the game operation is executed (step S101).

  Next, the state (ON / OFF) of the output signal of the RAM clear switch input through an input port (not shown) is confirmed. If the RAM clear switch is ON (step S102: YES), step S105 is performed. Then, the storage area is cleared as RAM initialization processing. However, if the RAM clear switch is not on (step S102: NO), it is determined whether or not the backup data stored in the backup RAM is valid when the power supply is interrupted next (step S103). When power is restored, the checksum is compared to check whether the backup data is valid.

  If the backup data is valid (step S103: YES), based on the backup data, the stack pointer before the power shutdown is restored, and the game restoration process necessary for starting the game from the processing state at the time of the power shutdown is performed. Execute (step S104), and proceed to step S107. If the backup data is not valid (step S103: NO), the stack pointer designation address is set in the stack pointer, and the RAM is initialized (step S105). With the initialization of the RAM, the RAM clear information is transmitted as an initialization command to each control board (step S106).

  Next, the CTC provided in the CPU is set (step S107). In this process, an initial value corresponding to 4 ms is set in the CTC time constant register so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every 4 ms.

  After finishing the processing after the initial power-on in steps S101 to S107, as the normal operation processing (steps S108 to S112), the interrupt prohibition (step S108) and the interrupt permission (step S112) are repeated, In the meantime, various random number update processes are executed (steps S109 to S111).

  As a random number update process, after the process of S step 108, first, a random number value update process for a variation pattern is executed (step S109). In this variation pattern random value update process, the variation pattern random value using the special symbol variation pattern command for lottery is mainly updated.

  Subsequently, in the normal value per-symbol determination initial value random number update process (step S110) for executing the normal value per-symbol determination initial value random number update process (step S110) and the special symbol per-symbol determination initial value random number update process (step S111). , Update the random number used to change the initial value of the random number for normal symbol determination used in the normal symbol variation display game winning / failing lottery (for example, the process of updating the count value of the counter), and determine the initial value random number for special symbol determination In the update process (step S111), a random number used for changing the initial value of the special symbol per-determination random number used for the success / failure lottery of the special symbol variation display game is updated.

(3-2. Main control timer interrupt processing: Fig. 7)
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing timer interrupt processing on the main control side that is activated by interruption every predetermined time (4 ms) in the main processing on the main control side.

  First, the main control CPU 201 executes a saving process (step S201) for saving a register to a predetermined stack area.

  Next, a periodic random number update process for periodically updating the random number related to each variable display game is executed (step S202). In the regular random number update process, various random numbers used for the success / failure lottery of the normal symbol variation display game and the special symbol variation display game are periodically updated.

  Next, a timer management process for managing and controlling a timer used for the game operation is executed (step S203). The timer values of various timers used for game machine control are updated here.

  Next, input management processing is executed (step S204). In this input management process, detection information from various sensors provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1 is read and stored in a register in itself (not shown). The information detected by the various sensors includes ON / OFF of switch signals output from winning detection switches such as the normal symbol starting port sensor 37a, the big winning port sensor 40a, the special symbol starting port sensors 34a and 35a, and the general winning port sensor 43a. Information.

  Next, error management processing is executed (step S205). In this error management process, the data read and stored in the input management process is grasped, the switch is checked, and an illegal winning is monitored, the game operation state is monitored, and the abnormality of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is monitored. To do.

  Next, prize ball management processing is executed (step S206). In the prize ball management process, control information (a prize ball payout control command for designating the number of prize balls) for causing the game ball payout device 19 to perform a payout operation is output.

  Next, normal symbol management processing is executed (step S207). In this normal symbol management process, a lottery determination in the normal symbol variation display game is executed, and the variation pattern of the normal symbol and the stop display mode of the normal symbol are determined based on the lottery result.

  Next, a normal variation winning device management process is executed (step S208). In the normal variation winning device management process, an excitation control signal for solenoid control is transmitted to the normal variation winning device solenoid 41a based on the result of the lottery determination in the normal symbol management processing (step S207), and the movable blade of the normal variation winning device 41 A series of operations of the piece 47 are controlled.

  Next, a special symbol management process is executed (step S209). In this special symbol management process, a big win lottery (big hit determination process) in the special symbol fluctuation display game is executed, and a special symbol fluctuation pattern and a special symbol stop display mode (stop special symbol) are determined based on the lottery result. To do. Details of the special symbol management process will be described later with reference to FIGS.

  Next, a special variable winning device management process is executed (step S210). In the special variable winning device management process, an excitation control signal for solenoid control is transmitted to the special variable winning device solenoid 42a on the basis of the result of the big hit winning lottery in the special symbol management processing (step S209). This is a process of controlling the opening and closing of the big winning opening 40 according to a predetermined pattern and controlling the execution of the game related to the big hit. Details of the special variable winning device management process will be described later with reference to FIGS.

  The main control CPU 201 executes the “LED management process” after the special variable winning device management process (step S211). This LED management process is a process of outputting output data to the normal symbol display device 39 and the special symbol display device 38 according to the progress of the processing. Therefore, the special symbol display data created in the special symbol display data update process (steps S396 and S397 in FIG. 17) described later is output in this LED management process.

  Further, the main control CPU 201 manages game island management of the game hall through an external concentration terminal board (not shown) such as a big hit occurrence, special symbol determination, normal symbol determination, and winning ball detection at the symbol start opening. An external terminal management process for outputting to the outside of the gaming machine such as a hall computer HC or an island lamp used in the game is performed (step S212).

  And after performing the process of step S202-step S212 as mentioned above, the contents of a register are restored (step S213) and a timer interruption process is complete | finished.

<4. Special symbol management processing: Fig. 8>
Next, the special symbol management process in step S209 related to the big hit lottery will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing details of the special symbol management process. Here, first, a start port check process (step S301) is performed.

(4-1. Start port check processing: FIG. 9)
In the start port check process, the number of reserved balls is added and various random numbers are acquired on condition that the number of reserved balls is less than the upper limit.

  In FIG. 9, the main control CPU 201 first confirms whether or not a winning ball is detected at the upper start port 34 or the lower start port 35 (step S311). When a winning ball is detected (step S311: YES), a special symbol start opening prize command indicating a win (upper start opening command for the upper start opening 34, lower start opening prize command for the lower start opening 35) is controlled. It transmits to the part 24 (step S312).

  Subsequently, the process proceeds to the process of step S313, and it is determined whether or not it is a case where the number of operation reserved balls of the special symbol is 4 or more (step S313). If the number of the special design operation hold balls (hereinafter referred to as “special design operation hold ball number”) is not 4 or more, that is, less than 4 (step S313: NO), the special design operation hold ball number is 1 Addition is performed (step S305), and a hold number command corresponding to the increased number of held balls (in this case, a hold addition command) is transmitted (step S315). This number-of-holds command is used when displaying the number of reserved balls for special symbols on the liquid crystal display device 36 (see steps S711 to S713 in FIG. 25). Next, the current values of the special symbol lottery random numbers (random numbers for determination per special symbol, special symbol stop symbol random number) and the random number for fluctuation pattern counter are acquired and stored in the acquired numerical value storage areas of the RAM 203 (steps). S316). Then, the process returns to step S301 in FIG. 8 and proceeds to the determination process in steps S302 to S303.

  When it is determined in step S311 that no winning ball has been detected (step S311: NO), or in step S304, it is determined that the number of special symbol actuated balls is 4 or more (step S313: YES), Without performing the processing of steps S312 to S316, the process returns to step S301 in FIG. 8 and proceeds to the processing of steps S302 to S303.

  When the process proceeds to steps S302 to S302 in FIG. 8, it is determined whether or not the small hitting hit flag or big hit hitting flag is set, and if it is “meeting small hit” or “medium big hit” (steps S302 or S303). : YES) After updating the special symbol display data (step S310), the special symbol management process is terminated, and the process proceeds to the special variable winning device management process of step S210 in FIG.

  FIG. 17 shows details of the special symbol display data update process (step S310). It is determined whether or not the special symbol is changing. If it is changing (step S395: YES), 0 is displayed. .Special symbol data that repeats blinking every 5 seconds (special symbol changing data) is created (step S396). If the special symbol is not changing (step S395: NO), data (stop symbol data) in a state where the special symbol is stopped is generated (step S397). The special symbol display data created here is output in the LED management process (step S211) of FIG.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the process in step S302 or S303 is not “small hit” or “big hit” (step S302 or S303: NO), the processing state (special symbol operation status) indicating the behavior of the special symbol is “ It is determined in sequence whether the special symbol is waiting (01H), special symbol changing (02H), or special symbol is stopped (03H) (step S304, step S306, step S308). Processing belonging to each processing state is performed. “Waiting for special symbol” means that the special symbol has not been changed and is waiting for the next change, and “Special symbol changing” means that the special symbol is currently changing. "Special symbol is stopped" indicates that the special symbol has been changed and stopped (during the special symbol confirmation time).

  Hereinafter, processing contents when the processing state is “special symbol waiting”, “special symbol changing”, and “special symbol stopping” will be described in order.

(4-2. Special symbol variation start processing: Fig. 10)
FIG. 10 shows the details of the special symbol variation start process which is shifted to the case where it is determined that the special symbol is waiting in the special symbol management process (FIG. 8) (step S304: YES).

  In the special symbol variation start process of FIG. 10, it is first determined whether or not the number of reserved balls (holding storage) for special symbols is zero (step S321). If the number of special symbol actuated balls is zero (step S321: YES), the special symbol is in a standby state and there is no reserved memory, and the fact that it has entered this state is reported to the production control unit 24 side. There is a need. For this reason, in this embodiment, a standby effect command is transmitted (step S334).

  However, if the standby effect command is transmitted without condition when the number of special symbol operation reserved balls is zero, the transmission of the standby effect command is repeated at a period of 4 ms while the number of special symbol operation reserved balls is zero. Unnecessary transmission occurs. Therefore, it is determined whether or not the standby effect command has not been transmitted (step S333). If the standby effect command has not been transmitted (step S333: YES), the standby effect command is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 (step S334). ) If the standby effect command has already been transmitted (step S333: NO), the special symbol management process is terminated without transmitting the standby effect command to the effect control unit 24.

  Here, it is determined whether or not a demonstration display condition for performing a demonstration effect is satisfied. If the demonstration display condition is satisfied, a demonstration display command may be transmitted to the effect control unit 24. In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, this determination is left to the effect control unit 24, and the special symbol management process is terminated without determining whether the demonstration display condition is satisfied.

  On the other hand, when the number of special symbol operation reservation balls is not zero (step S321: NO), 1 is subtracted from the number of special symbol operation reservation balls (step S322), and the number of reservation commands (here, the reservation subtraction) corresponding to the decreased number of reservation balls Command) is transmitted (step S323).

  Next, special symbol operation confirmation data is set, and the variation of the special symbol is started (step S324). Then, it is checked whether or not there is a remaining short number of times (step S325). If there is a remaining short number of times (step S325: YES), a remaining short number of times command is transmitted (step S326), and the hit determination process in step S327 is performed. move on. When the remaining short time count does not remain (step S325: NO), this command is not transmitted, and the process proceeds to a hit determination process in step S327.

(4-2-1. Hit determination processing: FIG. 11)
If it progresses to step S327, the determination (hit determination process) whether the random number value acquired at step S316 (FIG. 9) belongs to the big hit determination value will be performed (step S327). FIG. 11 shows the details of the hit determination processing. A big hit determination random value other than the small hit is determined, and if it is a big hit, the “big hit determination flag” is turned ON (step S335). Further, a random number for determining a small hit is determined. If the small hit is determined, the “small hit determination flag” is turned ON (step S336). The big hit determination flag and the small hit determination flag are used, for example, in step S383 or step S386 in FIG. 16 to determine whether the big hit or the small hit is other than the small hit.

(4-2-2. Special symbol stop symbol setting process: Fig. 12)
Next, the process proceeds to the special symbol stop symbol setting process in step S328, the special symbol stop symbol random number is determined, and the stop symbol (special symbol stop symbol) is determined (step S328). Specifically, in the special symbol stop symbol setting process, as shown in FIG. 12, the special symbol stop symbol random number value acquired in step S316 (FIG. 9) is acquired (step S341), and the special symbol stop not shown is displayed. With reference to the symbol table, “special symbol determination data” and “special symbol stop symbol number” corresponding to the random value are set. This special symbol stop symbol number is used to specify a stop symbol of a specific symbol on the main control unit 20 side, but is used to determine a big hit mode (for example, a round background or a song during a big hit game). You can also. In some cases, it may be transmitted to the effect control unit 24 together with the special symbol designation command described in FIG. 4 or instead of the special symbol designation command and used to display the special symbol together with the decorative symbol on the liquid crystal display device 36. it can. An example of the special symbol stop symbol number is listed as “special stop symbol number” together with the special symbol designation command in FIG.

(4-2-3. Game State Transition Preparation Process: FIG. 13)
Next, it progresses to the game state transition preparation process of step S329. As shown in detail in FIG. 13, it is checked whether or not the big hit determination flag (set in step S335 of FIG. 11) is in an ON state (step S351), and if it is ON (step S351: YES). Referring to the game state transition table, based on the special symbol determination data (set in step S342 in FIG. 12), the opening extension function, the normal map time shortening function, the general map time changing function, the special figure time changing function, the special figure probability changing function Each transition state buffer of the special figure short-time counter is set (step S352). As a result, each time a big hit is made, the functions required for the gaming state to be transferred are set according to the type. Then, the game state transition preparation process ends. When the big hit determination flag is OFF (step S351: NO), the game state transition preparation process is terminated without setting these buffers.

(4-2-4. Special symbol variation pattern setting process: FIG. 14)
Next, a special symbol variation pattern setting process is executed (step S330).

  FIG. 14 shows details of the special symbol variation pattern setting process. In this variation pattern setting process, one special symbol variation pattern is selectively determined by lottery according to the current gaming state, ON / OFF of the jackpot determination flag, and the number of reserved balls (step S361). Thereby, the symbol variation time of the special symbol variation pattern is also determined.

  In this way, the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined, and as a result, the variation time corresponding to this variation pattern is determined. Therefore, after transmitting the variation pattern designation command for the determined special symbol variation pattern to the effect control unit 24 (step S362), the variation time of the special symbol is set in the special symbol variation timer (step S363), and the special symbol variation pattern is set. The symbol variation pattern setting process is terminated.

(4-2-5. Special symbol designation command transmission process)
Proceeding to step 331 in FIG. 10, a special symbol designation command is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 (step S331). Therefore, both the special symbol variation pattern command (step S362) and the special symbol designation command (step S331) are transmitted to the effect control unit 24 as an effect control command.

  Next, the processing state (special symbol operation status) is switched to “special symbol variation (02H)” (step S332), and the special symbol variation start process is terminated. Then, the process returns to step S305 in FIG. 8 and proceeds to step S310 to update the special symbol display data. As a result, the special symbol management process is terminated, and the process shifts to the special variable winning device management process (FIG. 7).

(4-3. Special symbol variation processing: Fig. 15)
FIG. 15 shows the details of the special symbol changing process which is shifted to the case where it is determined that the special symbol is changing in the special symbol management process (FIG. 8) (step S306: YES).

  In the special symbol variation processing of FIG. 15, the special symbol variation timer is first monitored (step S371), and the special symbol variation time set in the special symbol variation timer in step S363 of FIG. 14 is awaited. (Step S371: NO). When the special symbol variation time has elapsed (step S371: YES), a “variation stop command” indicating that the variation of the special symbol has ended and stopped is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 (step S372). Then, the processing state (special symbol operation status) is switched to “special symbol stopping (03H)”, and the variation stop timer is set (step S373). As a result, the special symbol changing process is terminated and the process returns to step S309 in FIG. 8, the special symbol display data is updated (step S310), and the special symbol management process is terminated. Then, the process shifts to a special variable winning device management process (FIG. 7).

(4-4. Special symbol fluctuation suspension processing: FIG. 16)
FIG. 16 shows the details of the special symbol fluctuation stopping process that shifts to the case where the special symbol operation status is determined to be special symbol stopped (03H) (step S308: YES) in the special symbol management process (FIG. 8).

  In the special symbol fluctuation stop process of FIG. 16, first, the variable stop time (for example, 0. 0) for displaying the stop symbol on the special symbol display device 38 set in the variable stop timer in step S373 (FIG. 15). Wait for 5 seconds to elapse (step S381: NO). That is, until the special symbol variation stop time elapses, the special symbol variation suspension processing is exited without doing anything.

(4-4-1. Normal state)
When the above-described time for fluctuation stop has elapsed (step S381: YES), the special symbol operation status is switched to “special symbol standby (01H)” (step S382). Then, it is determined whether the stop symbol is a big hit symbol or a lost symbol. That is, the contents of the big hit determination flag and the small hit determination flag that are turned on in steps S335 and S336 of the hit determination process are checked in order (steps S383 and S386). If both flags are OFF (step S383: NO, S386: NO), that is, if the stop symbol is a lost symbol, the process proceeds to step S388, where the value of the special symbol time counter is zero? It is determined whether or not (step S388). In the case of the loss fluctuation in the normal state, the value of the special figure short time counter is zero, so the determination in step S388 is YES, and the special symbol fluctuation suspension processing is exited. Returning to FIG. 8, the special symbol display data is updated (step S310), and the special symbol management process is terminated.

(4-4-2. Big hit)
If it is determined in step S383 that the big hit determination flag is ON (big hit excluding small hits) (step S383: YES), the big hit determination flag is turned OFF and then the “big hit flag” is set to ON. (Step S384). In addition, when the big hit ends, each of the open extension function flag, the ordinary drawing time shortening function, the ordinary figure time varying function flag, the special figure time varying function flag, and the special figure certain time varying function flag which are set in step S464 (FIG. 24) is turned OFF. While clearing the number counter, each of the time-short state flag, the probability variation state flag, and the latent probability state flag is turned OFF (step S385), and the special symbol fluctuation suspension processing is terminated. Here, “common figure” is an abbreviation for ordinary symbols, and “special figure” is an abbreviation for special symbols. Returning to FIG. 8, the special symbol display data is updated (step S310), and the special symbol management process is terminated.

  When the big hit flag is set to ON, the determination in step S403 of the special variable winning device management process (FIG. 18), which will be described later, is YES, and the special variable winning device 42 is 15 as a special gaming state advantageous to the player. A big hit game that performs a round opening action is awarded. This 15 round opening action has different patterns depending on the type of jackpot. As shown in FIG. 5 as "hit-and-break opening pattern", in the case of 15R positive variation big hit and 15R normal big hit, 30 seconds are released 15 times (round ) Repeatedly, in the case of 15R latent probability hit, the release of 0.1 seconds is repeated 15 times (round). Therefore, in the case of 15R latent big hit, even if it is a special game state advantageous to the player, it is substantially impossible to get a ball.

(4-4-3. Small hits)
If it is determined in step S383 that the big hit determination flag is OFF (step S383: NO), the process proceeds to step S386. If it is determined in step S386 that the small hit determination flag is ON (small hit) (step S386: YES), the small hit determination flag is turned OFF and then the “small hitting flag” is set to ON. (Step S387).

  When the above-described small hitting flag is set to ON, the determination in step S401 of the special variable winning device management process (FIG. 18), which will be described later, is YES, and the special variable winning device 42 performs a 15-round opening operation as a special gaming state. A big hit game is performed. However, the hit-and-open pattern in the case of small hits is the same as in the case of 15R latent large hits described above, in which 0.1 seconds of opening is repeated 15 times (rounds), and therefore, the ball cannot be obtained substantially. .

(4-4-4. Time short state)
In the case of 15R probability big hit, the game shifts to the probability change state after the big hit game ends.

  If the value of the special figure short-time counter determined in step S388 is not zero (step S388: NO), that is, if the special symbol fluctuation count has not yet reached the upper limit of 100, a short-time state is entered. Since the time-saving state has been continued after that, the value of the special figure time-count counter is decremented by 1 (step S389), and it is determined whether or not the value of the probability variation counter after subtraction has become zero (step S390). In the present embodiment, the short-time state ends with a fluctuation count of 100 times. Therefore, since the value of the special figure short time counter is not zero until the number of fluctuations is 100, the determination in step S390 is NO and the special symbol fluctuation suspension processing is exited. Returning to FIG. 8, the special symbol display data is updated (step S310), and the special symbol management process is terminated.

  Thereafter, each time the symbol variation is executed once, the special symbol time reduction counter is decremented by 1 in the special symbol variation suspension processing of FIG. 16 (step S389).

  If the value of the special figure short time counter becomes zero (step S390: YES), the special figure short time counter is cleared because it is the timing when the short time state ends (step S385). In addition, each of the open extension function flag, the normal time function, the normal figure probability changing function flag, the special time function flag, and the short time flag is turned OFF (step S385), and the special symbol fluctuation stopping process is terminated. Returning to FIG. 8, the special symbol display data is updated (step S310), and the special symbol management process is terminated.

<5. Special variation winning device management process: Fig. 18>)
Returning to FIG. 7, following the special symbol management process (step S209), a special variable winning device management process is executed (step S210). This special variation winning device management process transmits an excitation control signal for solenoid control to the special variation winning device solenoid 42a based on the result of the big hit in the special symbol management processing (step S209). In this process, the winning opening 40 is controlled to open and close in accordance with a predetermined pattern, and a game related to a big hit (special game) is controlled.

  FIG. 18 shows the details of the special variable winning device management process. First, the main control CPU 201 checks whether or not the small hitting hit flag or big hit hitting flag is set (ON) (steps S401 and S403), and if it is not hitting or hitting big (steps S401: NO, S403). : NO) This special variable winning device management process is terminated without doing anything.

(5-1. Small hit: Fig. 19)
If the small hitting flag is set (ON) (step S401: YES), the process proceeds to the small hit processing in step S402. In this “small winning process”, as shown in FIG. 19, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (predetermined time before start) has elapsed before the special winning opening 40 of the special variable winning device 42 is opened (step S411). ). Until the predetermined time before the start elapses (step S411: NO), this special variable winning device operation start pre-processing is exited without doing anything.

  When the predetermined time before the start has elapsed (step S411: YES), in order to control a series of operations (15 opening operations) of the special variable winning device 42 in the small hit game, the electric accessory (special variable winning) Device) Performs processing according to the operation status. Here, a small hit start command is transmitted when the operation status of the electric accessory is in the big hit start process (00H), the special prize winning opening / closing operation is set while the special variable winning device is operating (02H), and the special variable winning device is not operating. At (03H), a small hit end command is transmitted (steps S413 to S415). As a result, the large winning opening 40 of the special variable winning device 42 is opened with a quick hitting and releasing pattern (see FIG. 5) of “0.1 second × 15 times”.

(5-2. Big hit: FIGS. 20 to 25)
In the determination of step 403 in FIG. 18, when the big hit flag is set (ON) (step S403: YES), a series of operations (15 opening operations) of the special variable winning device 42 in the big hit game are controlled. In order to do this, processing (steps S405 to S409) belonging to the respective states is executed according to which of the electric accessory operating statuses is 00H to 04H.

  When the operation status of the electric accessory is in the process of starting the big hit (00H), the “big hit start process” (step S405) is performed, and when it is before the special variable winning device is started (01H), “the special variable winning device is started”. "Pre-processing" (step S406) is performed. If the special variable winning device is operating (02H), "special variable winning device is operating" (step S407) is performed, and the special variable winning device is not operating (03H). If there is, the “special variable winning device operation stop process” (step S408) is performed, and if the big hit end process is being performed (04H), the “big hit end process” (step S409) is performed. “Before starting the special variable prize-winning device” means that the operation of the special variable prize-winning device 42 is in a pre-start state and “special variable prize-winning device is operating” means that the special variable prize-winning device 42 is currently active. The fact that the special variable prize-winning device is being stopped indicates that the special variable prize-winning device 42 is currently stopped and is being continuously determined.

(5-2-1. Big hit start processing: FIG. 20)
FIG. 20 shows details of the jackpot start process (step S405) that is performed when the operation status of the electric accessory is in the process of starting the jackpot start (00H). In the case of a big hit, in the big hit start process, the accessory continuous operation device operation flag is turned ON to switch to “active accessory continuous operation device in operation” (step S421). Here, the accessory continuous operation device refers to a functional unit for operating the special variable prize winning device 42 for one round continuously for a predetermined number of times. Next, the operation status of the electric accessory is switched to “Before starting the special variable winning device operation (01H)” (step S422). Then, the maximum number of rounds (for example, 15 times) and the opening effect time (for example, 10 seconds) are set (step S423). Here, the opening effect time is an interval interval from the time when the variation stop timer time of step S373 has elapsed and the winning is confirmed until the operation of the special variable prize winning device 42 starts, and the interval where the opening effect is performed. Refers to a defined time span. Then, a jackpot start command is transmitted (step S424), and the jackpot start process is terminated.

(5-2-2. Preliminary processing for starting operation of special variable winning device: FIG. 21)
FIG. 21 shows the details of the “special variable prize winning device operation start pre-processing” (step S406) that is performed when the electric accessory operating status is before the special variable prize winning device operation start (01H). In the special variable winning device operation pre-start process, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (predetermined time before starting) has passed before the special winning opening 40 of the special variable winning device 42 is opened (step S431). Here, as the predetermined time before the start, in the first round, after the special symbol stop time of the variable stop timer in step S381 has passed and the winning is determined, the operation of the special variable winning device 42 starts. The opening production time (set in step S423 in FIG. 20) is monitored, but when passing through step S431 in the second and subsequent rounds, the interval time between rounds (opening set in step S455 in FIG. 23). The previous interval time) is monitored.

  Until the predetermined time before the start elapses (step S431: NO), the special variable prize winning device operation pre-start process is exited without doing anything.

  When the predetermined time before the start elapses (step S431: YES), the special prize winning device opening time for the big winning opening (30 seconds for the probability variation big hit and the normal big hit, and 0.1 second for the big chance big hit) Is set, and the big prize winning number counter is cleared to zero (step S432). Then, the operation status of the electric accessory is switched to “special variable winning device is operating (02H)” (step S433). Also, the operation pattern of the open / close door 42b is set according to the operation pattern of the special variable prize winning device 42, and based on this, an excitation control signal for solenoid control is transmitted to the special variable prize winning device solenoid 42a, and the open door 42b is operated to increase the size. The winning opening 40 is opened (step S434). Then, the special variable winning device operation start process is terminated.

(5-2-3. Processing during operation of the special variable winning device: FIG. 22)
FIG. 22 shows the details of the “special variable winning device operating process” (step S407) performed when the electric accessory operating status is operating the special variable winning device (02H). In the special variable winning device operating process, it is determined whether or not a winning ball to the special winning opening 40 of the special variable winning device is detected (step S441).

  When a winning ball to the big winning opening 40 is detected (step S441: YES), 1 is added to “the number of winning big winning openings” (step S442), and a big winning opening winning command indicating that is given to the effect control unit. 24 (step S453). Then, the process proceeds to step S444. On the other hand, when a winning ball to the big winning opening 40 is not detected, the process proceeds to step S444 without performing these processes (steps S442 to S443).

  If it progresses to step S444, it will be judged whether the number of big winning award winnings after addition became the maximum number of winnings (step S444). If the number of winning prizes has not reached the maximum winning number (step S444: NO), the time for which the preset winning opening 40 is open (the opening time of the big winning opening: 30 seconds or 0 set in step S432) .1 second) is determined (step S445). Then, if the number of winning prizes does not reach the maximum winning number (step S444: NO) and the opening time of the big winning opening has not passed (step S445: NO), nothing is done and this special variable prize is won. The device management process ends.

  When the number of winning prizes reaches the maximum winning number (step S444: YES), the winning prize opening 40 is closed (step S446), and an interval command is transmitted (step S447). Then, the operation status of the electric accessory is switched to “Special variable prize winning device operation stopped (03H)”. Further, a remaining ball discharge time (for example, 2 seconds) for closing the special variable winning device for discharging the remaining balls is set (step S449).

  Even if the number of winning prizes reaches the maximum number of winnings, if the winning time of the big winnings has elapsed (step S445: YES), the winning prize opening 40 is closed at that time, and the operation status of the electric accessory is displayed. Is switched to “Special floating prize winning device operation stopped (03H)”. Then, the special variable winning device operating process is terminated.

(5-2-4. Processing during suspension of special variable winning device operation: FIG. 23)
FIG. 23 shows the details of the “special variable prize winning device operation stop process” (step S408) that is performed when the operation status of the electric accessory is in the special variable prize winning device operation stop (03H). In the special variable winning device operation stop processing, whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the special winning opening 40 was closed, that is, the closing time (2 seconds) set as the remaining ball discharge time in step S449 has elapsed. Whether or not (step S451). Until the remaining ball discharge time elapses (step S451: NO), this special variable prize winning device operation stop process is exited without doing anything.

  If the remaining ball discharge time has elapsed (step S451: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of operations (number of rounds) of the special variable winning device has reached a predetermined maximum number (here, 15 rounds) (step S452). . During the period up to 15 rounds, which is the maximum number of rounds (step S452: NO), the electric accessory operation status is switched to “Before starting the special variable winning device operation (01H)” (step S453). Then, “1” is added to the “special variable winning device operation count” (step S454), the current value of the number of rounds is updated, and the interval time before opening is set (step S455).

  When the maximum number of rounds has been reached in the determination in step S452 (step S452: YES), the electric accessory operation status is switched to “Big hit end processing (04H)” (step S456). Further, an ending effect time (for example, 5 seconds) is set (step S457), an ending effect command is transmitted (step S458), and the special variable prize winning device operation continuation determination process ends.

(5-2-5. Big hit end processing: FIG. 24)
FIG. 24 shows the details of the “hit winning process” (step S409) that is performed when the operation status of the electric accessory is the jackpot finishing process (04H). In this jackpot ending process, the ending effect time (5 seconds) set in step S457 has elapsed, that is, an interval section after the big winning opening 40 of the special variable winning device 42 in the final round is closed. It is determined whether or not it has been done (step S461). Until the ending effect time (5 seconds) elapses, nothing is done and the big hit end process is exited (step S461: NO).

  On the other hand, when the ending effect time has elapsed (step S461: YES), the big hit flag is cleared and the accessory continuous operation device operation flag is turned OFF (step S462). (Step S463). Then, as various settings at the end of the big hit, the value of each transition state buffer set in step S352 of the game state transition preparation process (FIG. 13) is set in each state flag (step S464). This process corresponds to a game state transition preparation setting process for shifting the gaming state after the big hit to a predetermined probability changing state, a short time state, a latent state or a normal state.

  Specifically, according to the “big hit end game state transition setting table” shown in FIG. 25, according to the type of jackpot, the extended extension function flag, the normal figure short function flag, the general figure certain change function flag, the special figure short time function flag Then, the transition state buffers of the special figure probability changing function flag and the special figure short time counter are set (step S352). In addition, a probability variation state flag, a time shortening state flag, and a latent probability state flag are set for the probability variation state, the short time state, and the latent state grasped based on these pieces of information.

  Thereafter, the gaming state notification information is updated (step S465), and a jackpot end command is transmitted to the effect control unit 24 as a gaming state command including the gaming state notification information (step S466). Thereby, the fact that the gaming state has shifted from the big hit state to the probable change state or the like is notified by a 7-segment display or a lamp.

  Thereafter, returning to FIG. 7, the LED management process (step S211) and the external terminal management process (step S212) are executed subsequent to the special variable winning device management process. Then, the timer interrupt process is terminated, and the process returns from the interrupt process routine to the main routine.

<6. Processing on the production control unit side: FIGS. 26 to 33>
Next, the process (FIGS. 26 to 33) on the production control unit side will be described.

(6-1. Production control side main process: FIG. 26)
When the gaming machine body is turned on and receives the power-on signal from the power supply board 31, the effect control unit 24 starts the effect control-side main process shown in FIG. In this effect control side main process, step S501 is performed as the first process after the power is turned on, and in other cases, steps S502 to S505 are performed as processes during normal operation.

  First, the effect control board 24 performs necessary initial settings before the start of the game operation as the first process after the power is turned on (step S501).

  Next, effect random number update processing is executed as processing during normal operation (step S502). In this effect random number update process, the random number value for effect lottery used mainly for selecting effect contents is regularly updated.

  Next, a command reception interrupt, a timer interrupt, an external INT, etc. are set in an interrupt enabled state (step S503), and then an interrupt disabled state is set (step S504). Then, the watchdog timer is cleared (step S505), and the process from step S503 to step S505 is executed in a loop process unless power interruption occurs.

(6-2. Command Reception Interrupt Processing: FIG. 27)
Next, a command reception interrupt process that is executed when the effect control command from the main control unit 20 is received will be described.

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing command reception interrupt processing on the effect control side. This command reception interrupt process is a process that is executed with priority over an effect control side timer interrupt process (FIG. 28) described later when an effect control command is received from the main control unit 20.

  First, when the production control unit 24 receives the production control command from the main control unit 20, the production control unit 24 saves the register in a predetermined stack area (step S506), and then stores the control command in the predetermined area of the RAM 242. Perform (step S507) and restore the register (step S508). When various control commands sent from the main control unit 20 are received, an INT interrupt is generated, and when a control command is received in this reception interrupt process, it is stored in the command reception buffer.

(6-3. Production control side timer interruption process: FIG. 28)
FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing an effect control side timer interrupt process activated by interruption every predetermined time (2 ms) in the effect control side main process in the effect control board 24.

  First, the effect control CPU 241 executes a register saving process for saving the register to a predetermined stack area (step S601). Next, the watchdog timer that monitors the program abnormality is cleared, and the timer count is restarted (step S602). When the program is in a runaway state, the watchdog timer is timed up, the production CPU is automatically reset, and the runaway state is restored.

  Next, periodic update processing is performed (step S603). In this periodic update process, the initial value of the effect random number used for selecting the effect pattern and the contents of various timers necessary for the execution of the effect pattern are updated for each interrupt. A representative of the various timers is a timer that manages a time schedule relating to the production of effects. For example, the decorative symbols are variably displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36 that is substantially within the same period as the special symbol is variably displayed on the special symbol display device 38 (within the special symbol variation period). Within the variation period (decoration pattern variation period), the production content of what production pattern on the time axis, and with what time width, the decoration lamp 45, the speaker 46, and the liquid crystal display device as production means The time schedule of whether to make it appear by 36 etc. is time-controlled by this timer.

  Next, an input monitoring process for monitoring inputs from various switches is performed (step S604). Details of this processing will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, as an effect determination management process, a command analysis process (step S605) and an effect scenario update process (step S606) are executed. And steps S607-S609 are performed as production output management processing.

  First, a command analysis process (step S605) for determining an effect scenario based on the received control command is executed. In this command analysis process, whether or not a control command is received from the main control unit 20, that is, whether or not a control command is stored in the command reception buffer is monitored for each interrupt. For example, when a variation pattern command is received and the variation pattern designation code is stored in the reception buffer, in the command reception process, this variation pattern designation code is read out, and the corresponding representation is made with reference to the representation pattern table (not shown). Determine the pattern.

  Next, effect scenario update processing (step S606) is executed. In this effect scenario update process, based on the content of the effect scenario determined in the command analysis process (step S605), a control signal (image effect control signal) for operating the liquid crystal display device 36 is created, and a lamp or LED And a control signal (light emission control signal and sound control signal) for operating the speaker 46 is generated. Then, the created control signal is stored in a predetermined storage area of the RAM 243. Further, as the production scenario progresses, the image production control signal is output to the liquid crystal display device 36, and sound and LED control signals (light emission control signal and audio control signal) are matched to the image production. Also output.

  Subsequent to the processing in step S606, it is determined whether there is an audio control signal for sound data to be reproduced in the predetermined command storage area as the contents of the effect output management processing (step S607). If there is an audio control signal (step S607: YES), the audio LSI audio control signal is input at a timing that requires sound reproduction, and the sound is output from the speaker 46 through the sound source IC (step S608). Thereby, the sound effect according to the production scenario is generated from the speaker 46.

  Subsequently, LED output processing is executed (step S609). This LED output process receives this information when the audio control signal is transmitted to the sound LSI, and transmits the light emission control signal to the decoration lamp 45 or the LED in accordance with the corresponding effect, and turns it on or blinks to produce the effect by light. Is realized.

  Then, the contents of the saved register are restored (step S610), thereby terminating the effect control side timer interruption process.

(6-3-1. Reception process of jackpot end command: FIG. 29)
FIGS. 29 to 31 show processing closely related to the bonus game that enters after the end of the jackpot game, among the processing executed in the command analysis processing (step S605 in FIG. 28).

  FIG. 29 shows a process when the jackpot end command transmitted in step S466 of the jackpot end process (FIG. 24) is received. When this jackpot end command is received, a state scenario of the state effect (effect mode) corresponding to the type of jackpot is set based on the game state notification information included therein (step S701). When this effect scenario is set, the background to be displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36 is switched to the background for the effect mode, and a corresponding effect state BGM flows from the speaker.

  When the 15R probability variation big hit is won, after the big hit game, the main control unit 20 shifts to the probability variation state, and the effect control unit 24 shifts to the probability change confirmed effect mode (for example, night background). When the 15R latent promising big win is won in the non-probable change state, after the big hit game, the main control unit 20 shifts to the latent promising state, and the effect control unit 24 shifts to the concealment effect mode (genuine) (for example, evening background). . When the 15R latent promising big win is won again in the latent state, after the big hit game, the main control unit 20 shifts to the probable change state, and the effect control unit 24 shifts to the probable change definite production mode (night background). When a small win is won under the non-probable change state, after the winning game, the main control unit 20 shifts to the normal state, and the effect control unit 24 shifts to the concealment effect mode (gasse) (evening background). Further, when a small win is won under the probability change state, after the winning game, the main control unit 20 shifts to the probability change state, and the effect control unit 24 continues the probability change confirmed effect mode (night background). When the 15R normal big hit is won, after the big hit game, the main control unit 20 shifts to an uncertain change state, and the effect control unit 24 shifts to a time-short state effect mode (for example, morning background). It should be noted that in the normal production other than these production modes, the daytime background is set.

(6-3-2. Reception process of variation pattern designation command: FIG. 30)
FIG. 30 shows processing when the variation pattern designation command transmitted in step S362 of the special symbol variation pattern setting process (FIG. 14) is received. When the change pattern designation command is received, an effect pattern corresponding to this command, that is, a change pattern for effect of the decorative design is set (step S711).

  That is, when a variation pattern designation command is received and the variation pattern designation code is stored in the reception buffer, the variation pattern designation code is read in the command reception process, and the corresponding production pattern is determined by referring to the production pattern table. To do. Here, the effect pattern table is a table in which at least a variation pattern designation code, a decoration pattern variation pattern, and a variation time are associated in advance as an effect pattern, and a plurality of effect patterns are associated with each variation pattern designation code. . By referring to this effect pattern table, an effect pattern corresponding to the variation pattern designation code is determined by selecting one of the effect pattern groups belonging to the variation pattern designation code by lottery.

(6-3-3. Special Symbol Designation Command Reception Processing: FIG. 31)
FIG. 31 shows a process when the special symbol designation command transmitted in step S331 of the special symbol variation start process (FIG. 10) is received. When this special symbol designation command is received, a decoration symbol that becomes a stop symbol in accordance with the change is determined (step S721), and the rendering device (the liquid crystal display device 36, the light display device 45a including lamps and LEDs, the speaker 46, etc.) The announcement effect by the sound generator 46a including the movable body or the like is determined by lottery (step S722). Then, the decorative symbol variation effect (decorative symbol variation display game) accompanied with the notice effect is started (step S723).

  Next, it is determined from the code content of the special symbol designation command whether or not the variation of the decorative symbol variation display game is a win (big hit or small win) (step S754). In the case of winning (big hit or small hit), that is, the code of the special symbol designation command is one of “B102H”, “B103H”, “B111H” to “B11AH”, and “B121H to“ B12AH ”for the small hit If it is, the hit history information including the decorative symbol type and the special symbol type for that hit is stored in the RAM 243 (step S725). More accurately, the “history information” is the number of symbol fluctuations (so-called rotation speed) at the time of winning, the decorative symbol type, the special symbol type, the hit occurrence time, the hit reach action (the contents of the hit effect) ) Types.

  Here, the RAM 243 functions as a hit symbol history storage means, stores all kinds of special symbols prepared in advance as a part of hit history information relating to past hits, and reads all the special symbol types. It can be used for history display. However, the use of special symbol types such as latent hits and small hits for history display is restricted, and if you win the corresponding hits with restrictions, an unknown mark such as “?” Is displayed in the history display list. It can also be set as the structure attached.

  In the case of loss, that is, when the special symbol designation command code “B101H” is received (step S724: NO), the special symbol designation command receiving process is terminated without performing this storage process.

<7. Input monitoring processing: Fig. 32)
FIG. 32 shows details of the input monitoring process (step S604 in FIG. 28).

  Input data from various switches is acquired (step S731), and it is monitored whether or not the frame effect button 13 is turned on (step S732). When the effect button 13 is turned on (step S732: YES), it is determined whether or not it is during the period (demo screen display period) in which the demonstration screen for calling customers is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 ( Step S733) When the effect button 13 is turned ON during the demonstration screen display period (step S733: YES), the history display is performed on the liquid crystal display device 36 (step S734).

  If the frame effect button 13 is not turned ON (step S732: NO), and if it is not during the demonstration screen display period (step S733: NO), this input monitoring process is terminated without doing anything.

<8. Winning history display: FIGS. 33 to 34>
The hit history display is displayed as a hit history image 360 as shown in FIG. 4, for example.

  As shown in the hit history display list in FIG. 33 in detail, the hit history image 360 has, in order from the left, the number of occurrences (occurrence history) a per hit when a big hit and a small hit occur on that day, until the hit occurs. The number of symbol fluctuations (number of rotations) b, the type of decorative symbol (decoration symbol) c in which a hit has occurred, the effect content (reach action) d at the time of hitting, such as a notice mode performed with a variation display of the symbol in hit, and the special symbol in which a hit has occurred It is composed of a list image 361 in which required history data such as seeds (special symbols) e are arranged in a horizontal row, and is arranged by a list image 361 in the order of occurrence of hits, and a data sequence from the first big hit to the last big hit Can be displayed while scrolling from bottom to top. The list image 361 can include other history data such as a hit occurrence time.

  The characteristic of the hit history image 360 includes a special symbol type (special symbol type) e as one of the history data, and the player sees the hit history image 360, so that It is possible to specify which is a small hit.

  The special symbol types to be displayed in the hit history image 360 are shown as a special symbol list in FIG. The 7-segment display pattern “7” has a special symbol type for 15R probability big hit, “8” for 15R normal big hit, “J” to “e.” For 15R latent big hit, and “b” to “u” Corresponds to small hits. At the start of the change of the special symbol in the special symbol display device 38, the corresponding “special symbol specifying information” is transmitted from the main control unit 20 to the effect control unit 24 by the special symbol designation command. It is possible to display symbols. In the case of the present embodiment, this “special symbol specifying information” is the back number (codes B01H to B12AH shown in FIG. 5) assigned to each special symbol designation command in a one-to-one relationship with the special symbol type, that is, the special symbol. The type of the specified command itself. However, the special stop symbol numbers (codes 01H to 0CH and 20H to 29H shown in FIG. 34) are individually associated with each of the special symbol types in a one-to-one relationship. By transmitting to the effect control unit 24 together with or together with the designation command, the special symbol specifying information may be handled. Here, the number of special symbol types is 10 special symbol types for 15R latent big hit and small hit each, but it is not limited to this number, and any number can be prepared.

  In the example of the hit history image 360 shown in FIG. 33, a special symbol “8” is won N times before and 15R normal big win is won, and then the special symbols “h” and “u” are reduced four times before and three times before. In this case, a special symbol “J” was won the 15R latent big hit last time, and a special symbol “7” was won the 15R positive variation big hit last time. Accordingly, when considering the time of winning the previous round, the player interrupts the game at this time and waits until the demonstration screen is displayed, and the hit history image 360 is displayed by pressing the frame effect button 13 there. Thus, it is possible to know that the special symbol of the hit was “J”. Even if the special symbol “J”, which stops changing on the special symbol display device 38, cannot be visually recognized for some reason at the time of winning the 15R latent chance, the demo screen is displayed during the display period thereafter. By pressing the frame effect button 13, it means that the special symbol “J” can be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 and confirmed.

  Further, even after a subsequent 15R latent big hit is made, by displaying the past hit history image 360, it is possible to check a special symbol type at the time of hitting that the user wants to check. For example, in the example of FIG. 33, since the last time the number of revolutions was 50 times, the 15R probability change big hit was won, so there is a high possibility that the hit just before (previous times) was a latent big hit. It is possible to know that there is a high possibility that the special symbol is won twice for the small wins of “h” and “u” before winning the 15R latent big hit. Moreover, by assuming that, it can be inferred that “J” exists in the special symbol type for the big hit probability and “h” “u” exists in the special symbol type for the small hit. In this way, the player can gradually increase their understanding of the special symbol types of the latent big hit and the small hit. Also, a player other than the player who generated the hit also displays a past hit history image 360 for the gaming machine as a reference when starting the game, and from the special symbol type shown there A similar judgment can be made.

<Modification 1>
In the case of the above embodiment, it is configured to notify all types of special symbols for the latent big hit and the small hit, but this may reduce the player's interest, so in some cases the latent big hit and the small big hit may be reduced. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which a part of the special symbol types per hit is concealed without notification.

<Modification 2>
In the case of the above embodiment, the operation of the frame effect button 13 which is a manual operation means is accepted during the demonstration screen display period, and the immediately preceding hit (latent probability big hit and It is assumed that the special symbol grasped about the “small hit” is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36. However, it can be configured that the ON operation of the frame effect button 13 is accepted to a predetermined number of operations up to, for example, 10 times. In addition, a special symbol that grasps the last hit (latent probability big hit and small hit) only when the ON operation of the frame effect button 13 is performed a predetermined number of times or when a lottery performed by the ON operation is won. The liquid crystal display device 36 may be configured to display.

<9. Second Embodiment: FIGS. 35 to 42>
Next, a second embodiment in which a special symbol is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 during the concealment effect mode will be described.

  In the second embodiment, the main control unit 20 displays special symbol specifying information (special symbol designating command code) for causing the special symbol display device 38 to display the special symbol variably. It has stop symbol information transmission means for allocating information and transmitting it in a one-to-one relationship, and the production control unit 24 receives special symbol specifying information (special symbol designation command code) transmitted from the stop symbol information transmission means. Means for grasping the type of the special symbol (step S724 in FIG. 31), and winning symbol history storing means for storing the grasped special symbol type as a part of the information relating to the past hit (step S725 in FIG. 31). ) In common. However, in the concealment effect mode in which the effect control unit 24 conceals from the player whether the current gaming state is after the latent large hit (first hit) or after the small hit (second hit), Based on the special symbol stored in the hit symbol history storage means, special symbol notification control means (to be described later) for causing the liquid crystal display device 36 to display the special symbol type grasped about the latent large hit or the small hit which is the previous hit. The difference is that step S744) of FIG. 35 is included.

(9-1. Fluctuation pattern designation command reception processing: FIG. 35)
FIG. 35 shows the reception process of the variation pattern designation command in the second embodiment. As in the case of FIG. 30, when the variation pattern designation command transmitted in step S362 of the special symbol variation pattern setting process (FIG. 14) is received, the processing of FIG. A corresponding decorative pattern variation pattern is set (step S741).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the current state of the effect control unit 24 (effect mode) is in the concealment effect mode (step S742). If it is within the period during the concealment effect mode (genuine) that shifts after the latent hit game, or within the period during the concealment effect mode (gase) that shifts after the small hit game (step S742: YES), step S743 Then, the special symbol type at the time of the previous time (immediately before) is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 (step S743). Therefore, during the concealment effect mode, the special symbol continues to be displayed over the entire period, and when the concealment effect mode period ends, the display of the special symbol disappears.

  In the case of 15R normal big hit or 15R probability variable big hit, the open extension function is activated and it becomes clear that the big hit has been won, so there is no need to display a special symbol. Therefore, in this case, only the decorative design is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36. On the other hand, when the 15R latent big hit or 15R small hit is won, the liquid crystal display device 36 displays the special symbol type in addition to the display of the message reporting the shift to the concealment effect mode. .

  In this embodiment, since both the big potential hit and the small hit are considered to be displayed, the term “previous hit” indicates the previous hit. However, if the special symbol is to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 by paying attention to only one of the large probability hit or the small hit, the previous hit is not necessarily the previous hit. For example, this is a case where the previous latent big hit is the previous hit.

(9-2. Liquid crystal display of special symbol 1: FIGS. 36 to 39)
In FIG. 36, there are variable display areas A, B, and C in which the decorative symbols are located side by side and fluctuate in the vertical direction at the center of the screen of the liquid crystal display device 36, and a special symbol type e is 7 below the area. An example is shown in which special symbol type information 51 including a segment display pattern “J” and “symbol per previous segment” of the description f is displayed. The special feature of this form is that the special symbol type “J”, which was once displayed on the special symbol display device 38 after winning the previous time but immediately disappeared after the next symbol variation started, In the concealment effect mode, the special symbol type information 51 is displayed on the same liquid crystal display screen without disturbing the visibility of the decorative symbol variation display. The special symbol type information 51 including this special symbol type “J” continues to be displayed for a relatively long period until the concealment effect mode period ends, for example, when the predetermined number of fluctuations is reached or when a predetermined time elapses. Therefore, even when the player cannot confirm the 7-segment display pattern “J” of the special symbol display device 38 at the time of hitting, the player confirms the special symbol type “J” as the display content later in the concealment effect mode. Will be able to.

  FIG. 37 shows a form in which special symbol type information 51 consisting of a special symbol type e and its explanatory text f is displayed at the center of the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 36 so as to overlap the variable symbol display area. . In this embodiment, it is preferable that the special symbol type information 51 is displayed in a semi-transparent state so that the variation of the lower decorative symbol can be visually recognized.

  Further, as illustrated in FIG. 38, the explanatory note f can be omitted and only the special symbol type e can be displayed on the screen. In this embodiment, the special symbol type information 51 may be displayed in a semi-transparent state so that the variation of the lower decorative symbol can be easily recognized.

  FIG. 39 divides the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 36 into upper and lower parts, the lower side thereof is used as a decorative symbol variable display area, and a special symbol type consisting of a special symbol type e and its explanatory text f in the upper region. The form which displays the information 51 is shown.

(9-3. Liquid Crystal Display 2 with Special Design: FIGS. 40 to 42)
In the above-described embodiment, during the concealment effect mode, the special symbol grasped about the last hit is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 over the entire period, but the operation of the frame effect button 13 is accepted during the concealment effect mode, Based on the operation of the frame effect button 13 during the concealment effect mode, the special symbol type grasped for the immediately preceding hit is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 in the manner shown in FIGS. You can also.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 40, after each input data is acquired in the input monitoring process (step S751), it is checked whether or not the frame effect button is turned on and whether or not the hidden effect mode is in effect. (Steps S752 to S753), and when the frame effect button is turned ON during the concealment effect mode (step S752: YES, step S753: YES), the special symbol type grasped for the immediately preceding hit is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36. Are displayed (step S754).

  Also, during the concealment effect mode, the operation of the frame effect button 13 is accepted up to a predetermined number of times, for example, 10 times, and the special symbol grasped about the immediately preceding hit every time the frame effect button 13 is operated within the predetermined number of times, The liquid crystal display device 36 may be configured to display in the mode shown in FIGS.

  FIG. 41 shows a form in which the special symbol grasped about the previous hit is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 as the hit history image 360 by pressing the frame effect button 13. In this case, in step S754 in the flowchart of FIG. 40, the hit history based on the hit history image 360 of FIG. 41 is displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 41, it is the history display information 362 for one time consisting of the history count a, the reach action d, and the special symbol e. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It can also be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 36 together with other special symbols grasped about the previous round.

  FIG. 42 shows a form in which the special symbol grasped for the previous hit is displayed as a hit history image (hit history screen) 360 on the liquid crystal display device 36 together with other special symbols obtained for the previous hit. Yes. In this case, in step S754 in the flowchart of FIG. 40, the hit history is determined by the hit history image 360 of FIG. The hit history image 360 includes information about the special symbol e at the time of hitting together with information such as the number of revolutions b at the time of hitting, the decorative symbol c at the time of hitting, and the reach action d at the time of hitting. .

  The images in FIGS. 36 to 39 and FIGS. 41 to 42 described above are displayed only when the frame effect button 13 is pressed a predetermined number of times or when a lottery performed by turning on the frame effect button 13 is won. It is possible to configure the liquid crystal display device 36 to display a special symbol grasped for the previous hit (latent probability big hit and small hit).

<Other variations>
In the above embodiment, when a special symbol designation command is received, history display information such as the number of rotations, decoration symbol, special symbol type, reach mode, etc. is acquired from the content and stored in the RAM 243. However, when a hit fluctuation stop command (step S372 in FIG. 15), a hit start command (step S424 in FIG. 20, step S413 in FIG. 19), an end command (step S466 in FIG. 24), or the like is received, Display information may be acquired and stored in a memory.

  In the above embodiment, the special symbol designation command code is transmitted in a one-to-one relationship with the special symbol type to transmit the special symbol type from the main control unit 20 to the effect control unit 24. A special symbol type can be transmitted from the main control unit 20 to the effect control unit 24 by using a control command such as a change stop command (step S372 in FIG. 15).

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, it comprised so that a special symbol might be displayed on the screen of the same liquid crystal display device 36 on which an effect display is performed. However, the display device for displaying the special symbol may be any decorative symbol display means that displays the decorative symbol and is arranged in a position where the display area is larger than the special symbol and is easily visible, and the special symbol is visually recognized together with the decorative symbol. By displaying easily, the intended purpose of the present invention can be achieved. Therefore, a special symbol at the time of winning winning the latent probability variation big hit or small hit can be displayed on the screen of a liquid crystal display device provided separately.

  The present invention conceals whether the gaming state after the end of a hit game is a high probability state or a low probability state, and has a degree of expectation that the game state is latent in a probability variation state. Can be applied.

1 Pachinko machine,
2 Front frame,
3 Game board,
3a gaming area,
4 outer frame,
5 ball guide rail,
6 Glass door frame,
7 Front operation panel
8 Upper tray unit,
9 Top saucer,
11 Ball rental button,
12 Card return button,
13 Frame production button,
14 Ball release button,
15 Launch control handle,
19 game ball dispensing device,
20 Main control unit,
24 production control unit,
28 Launch control board,
29 payout control board,
31 power supply board,
32 launcher,
34 Upper starting port (special symbol starting port),
35 Lower start (special design start),
36 liquid crystal display devices,
37 Normal design starting port,
38 Special symbol display device,
39 Normal symbol display device,
40 Grand Prize Winners,
41 Ordinary variable winning device,
42 Special variable winning device,
43 General prize opening,
44 Windmill,
45 Decorative lamp,
45a optical display device,
46 Speaker,
46a sound generator,
47 Movable wing pieces,
48 Center decoration,
49 Out mouth,
51 Special symbol type information,
201 main control CPU,
202 main control ROM,
203 main control RAM,
241 Production control CPU,
242 Production control ROM,
243 Production control RAM
360 history images,
361 List image of history,
362 History display information.

Claims (13)

Special symbol display means for displaying special symbols;
A decorative symbol display means in which a decorative symbol is displayed and the display area is larger than the special symbol and is arranged at a position where it is easy to visually recognize;
A main control unit that comprehensively controls the operation of the game;
An effect control unit that controls the effect by the effect device including the decorative symbol display means based on a control command from the main control unit;
Have
The main control unit
Lottery means for lottery of a plurality of types of hits that provide a special gaming state advantageous to the player, when the starting condition is established,
Based on the lottery result by the lottery means, special symbol display control means for causing the special symbol display means to variably display and stop the special symbol;
Stop symbol information transmitting means for transmitting the special symbol specifying information for specifying the special symbol to be variably displayed on the special symbol display means in a one-to-one relationship with the type of the special symbol;
Special game state granting means for granting the special game state to a player on condition that the special symbol is stopped and displayed in a special manner on the special symbol display means;
Game state transition in which the gaming state after the special gaming state is ended is shifted to either a high probability state or a relatively low low probability state in which the winning lottery probability is relatively high based on the winning type. Means, and
When the winning lottery is won under the low probability state, the winning type includes a first winning state in which the gaming state after the special gaming state is finished is shifted to the high probability state, and the low probability state. Including the second per unit to be continued,
The production control unit
Decorative symbol display control means for causing the decorative symbol display means to variably display and stop the decorative symbol corresponding to the variation of the special symbol;
Production mode control means for transitioning the production mode in the high probability state after the first hit and the low probability state after the second hit to the concealment production mode that produces the same or similar production,
Means for receiving the special symbol specifying information transmitted from the stop symbol information transmitting means and grasping the type of the special symbol;
The winning symbol history storage means for storing the type of the special symbol ascertained so that it can be used as a part of the information relating to the past winnings;
Special symbol notification control means for causing the decorative symbol display means to display the special symbol grasped about the first hit or the second hit which is the previous hit based on the special symbol stored in the hit symbol history storage means And comprising
A ball game machine characterized by that.   The special symbol notification control means, during the concealment effect mode, based on the special symbol stored in the winning symbol history storage means for a part of the period, the first hit or the first 2. The ball game machine according to claim 1, wherein a special symbol grasped for two is displayed on the decorative symbol display means.   2. The bullet according to claim 1, wherein the special symbol notification control unit causes the decorative symbol display unit to display a special symbol grasped about the immediately preceding hit during the concealment effect mode over the entire period. Ball game machine. It further has manual operation means connected to the production control unit,
The special symbol notification control means causes the decorative symbol display means to display the special symbol grasped about the previous hit based on the operation of the manual operation means during the concealment effect mode. The bullet ball game machine according to claim 1. It further has manual operation means connected to the production control unit,
The special symbol notification control means receives the operation of the manual operation means up to a predetermined number of times during the concealment effect mode, and each time the manual operation means is operated within the predetermined number of times, the special symbol grasped about the immediately preceding hit The bullet ball game machine according to claim 1, wherein a symbol is displayed on the decorative symbol display means. It further has manual operation means connected to the production control unit,
When the manual operation means is operated, the production control unit grasps the first hit or the second hit which is the last hit based on the special symbol stored in the hit symbol history storage means. The ball game machine according to claim 1, further comprising special symbol notification control means for displaying a special symbol on the decorative symbol display means. It further has manual operation means connected to the production control unit,
When the manual operation means is operated during the demonstration screen display period, the effect control unit is configured to select the first hit or the first hit that is the last hit based on the special symbol stored in the hit symbol history storage means. The ball game machine according to claim 1, further comprising special symbol notification control means for causing the decorative symbol display means to display a special symbol grasped for the second hit.   The special symbol notification control means causes the decorative symbol display means to display the special symbol grasped about the immediately preceding hit together with other special symbols grasped about the previous hit. A ball game machine according to 6 or 7.   The special symbol notification control means causes the decorative symbol display means to display the special symbol grasped about the immediately preceding hit in the hit history image together with other special symbols grasped about the previous hit. The ball game machine according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that   The bullet ball according to claim 9, wherein the hit history image includes information such as the number of rotations at the time of hitting, decorative symbols, production contents, and special symbols at the time of hitting in a list format. Gaming machine.   The special symbol notification control means receives the operation of the manual operation means up to a predetermined number of times, and each time the manual operation means is operated within the predetermined number of times, the special symbol grasped about the immediately preceding hit is displayed on the decorative symbol display means The bullet ball game machine according to claim 6, wherein the ball game machine is displayed.   The special symbol notification control means causes the decorative symbol display means to display a special symbol grasped about the immediately preceding hit when the manual operation means is operated a predetermined number of times or more. 7. A ball game machine according to 7.   The special symbol notification control means causes the decorative symbol display means to display the special symbol grasped about the immediately preceding hit when the lottery performed by turning on the manual operation means is won. A bullet ball game machine according to claim 6 or 7.

Images