JP2011206461A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of enhancing the degree of freedom of a display method of a performance image even while displaying a forecast image for carrying out an advance notification of opening/closing of a starting variable prize-winning device and a performance image for carrying out a specific performance on the same display device.SOLUTION: A drawing circuit 2070 first stores image information of an normal-pattern suspending image 38 in the frame buffer of a VRAM 153 when it is determined to draw the normal-pattern ordinary image suspending image 38 notifying the opening/closing of the starting variable prize-winning device and jackpot images 39e to 39g. Thereafter, the drawing circuit stores the image information of the jackpot images 39e to 39g in the frame buffer of the VRAM 153 while clobbering the same on the normal-pattern suspending image 38, so as to erase the image information of the normal-pattern suspending image 38 from the frame buffer of the VRAM 153.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that notifies in advance that a start variable winning device is opened.

  In a conventional gaming machine, when a game ball wins in a start winning opening provided on the game board, a symbol change is started in the symbol display device, and when a special symbol (a jackpot symbol) is stopped, a special game ( It is configured to perform control of jackpot). In such special games, the big prize opening provided on the game board is opened so that the game ball can be easily won, and the prize ball corresponding to the game ball won in the big prize opening is paid out to the player. It has become.

  In addition to the above prize winning opening and start opening, a normal symbol gate is provided on the game board, and when a game ball passes through the normal symbol gate, a random number value is acquired, and the acquired random number value is converted into the normal symbol gate. It is configured to store in the hold memory. After that, based on the random number value stored in the normal symbol hold memory, the “normal symbol lottery” is performed, and when the normal symbol lottery is won, the variable start prize device (a pair of movable pieces provided at the start port) is selected. The so-called electric tulips are open.

  In recent years, the random number value stored in the normal symbol hold memory is read before the “normal symbol lottery” is executed, and whether or not the random number value to be won in the “normal symbol lottery” is determined in advance. There is known a gaming machine that makes a determination and informs of information obtained as a result (see Patent Document 1).

JP 2004-57714 A

However, the same display device as the display device for displaying the preview image for performing the advance notice of opening and closing of the start variable winning device provided at the start opening and the display device for displaying the effect image for performing a specific effect If configured, when the effect image is to be displayed, the preview image gets in the way, and the display method such as the display position, size, and movement range of the effect image is restricted.
Further, if the preview image and the effect image are configured by different display devices (for example, if two liquid crystal display devices are provided), not only the cost is remarkably increased, but also the control becomes complicated. Since the place where can be arranged is also limited, one display device itself is also small.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a free display method for displaying an effect image even though a preview image for performing a notification of opening / closing of the start variable winning device and an effect image for performing a specific effect are configured on the same display device. An object is to provide a gaming machine capable of improving the degree.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a game board in which a game area in which game balls flow down is formed, and a start area detecting means (start port detection switch) for detecting a game ball that has entered a start area provided in the game area. 14a, 15a), normal area detecting means (gate detection switch 13a) for detecting a game ball that has entered the normal area provided in the game area, and a game ball entering the special area provided in the game area Special variable prize-winning device (first grand prize opening opening / closing door 16b and first big prize opening opening / closing solenoid 16c, or second large prize opening opening / closing door 17b and second 2 large winning opening opening / closing solenoids 17c) and a variable startable winning device (a pair of movable pieces 15b and a movable piece 15b) that can be changed between an open state in which a game ball easily enters the start area and a closed state in which it is difficult to enter. A special determination is made as to whether or not to control the special game for changing the special variable prize-winning device to the open state on the condition that the game ball is detected by the start opening / closing solenoid 15c) and the start area detecting means. A game determination means (main CPU 110a), a special game control means (main CPU 110a) for controlling the special game on the condition that the special game determination means determines that the special game is to be controlled, and the normal game The normal determination information acquisition means (main CPU 110a) for acquiring the normal determination information (normal symbol determination random number) on the condition that the game ball is detected by the area detection means, and the normal determination information acquisition means The normal hold storage means (main RAM 110c) for storing the normal judgment information up to a predetermined upper limit value and the normal hold storage means And the specific information determination means (main CPU 110a) for referring to the stored normal determination information according to a predetermined winning order and determining whether or not the referred normal determination information is specific determination information. When it is determined that the specific determination information is determined by the means, a start / release control means (main CPU 110a) for performing control for changing the start variable winning device to an open state, and a normal determination stored in the normal hold storage means Before the information is referred to by the start / open game determination means, a prior determination means (main CPU 110a, sub CPU 120a or host CPU 150a) for determining whether the normal determination information is specific determination information, and a video signal An image display device (liquid crystal display device 31) that displays a predetermined image by inputting, and a determination result of the prior determination means Special effect for displaying the notice image information for displaying the notice image (ordinary hold image 38) for notifying the player and the special effect image for notifying that the special game is controlled by the special game control. Image information storage means (CGROM 151) for storing at least image information (big hit images 39e to 39g), image determination means (host CPU 150a) for determining an image to be displayed on the image display device, and display on the image display device Based on the display image storage means (frame buffer of the VRAM 153) for storing image information and the image determined by the image determination means, the display information is stored in the image information storage means according to a predetermined drawing order. Drawing control means (drawing circuit 2070) for drawing the image by storing the image in the storage means; Display control means (display circuit) for displaying the image on the image display device by generating a video signal from the image information stored in the display image storage means and outputting the video signal to the image display device 2080),
The drawing control means deletes the notice image from the display image storage means when the notice image and the special effect image are decided by the image decision means.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to draw a preview image for notifying the opening / closing of the start variable winning device and a special effect image (a jackpot effect image) for notifying that the special game is being controlled. Even if determined, the image information of the preview image is erased from the display image storage means (the frame buffer of the VRAM 153), and the special effect image is preferentially displayed.
For this reason, although the preview image for performing the advance notice of the open / closed state of the start variable prize-winning device and the effect image for performing the specific effect are configured on the same display device, the degree of freedom of the display method of the effect image is increased. Can be improved. Further, by improving the degree of freedom of the display method of the effect image, it is possible to further improve the interest of the game.
In general, when a special game is played, the player is playing a special game while getting drunk with a sense of accomplishment, superiority or happiness, and opening a variable start prize device that makes it easier for a game ball to enter the start area. Is less interested. For this reason, even if the special effect image for notifying that the control of the special game is being performed is preferentially displayed, the interest of the game is not lost.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the first aspect, when the image determining unit determines the notice image and the special effect image, the drawing control unit displays the notice image as the notice image. After storing in the display image storage means, overwriting the preview image and storing the special effect image in the display image storage means, thereby deleting the preview image from the display image storage means .

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, the special effect image is overwritten and stored in the preview image, and the preliminary notification is performed by a simple process of changing the drawing order without performing a special erasing process on the preview image. The image can be erased.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the first or second aspect, when the special game control means controls the special game, the number of the specific determination information is the first. A non-specific game state transition determining means (main CPU 110a) for determining to shift to a non-specific game state set to the number of one, and when the special game control is terminated by the special game control means, a predetermined Specific game for determining whether to shift from the non-specific game state to a specific game state in which the number of the specific determination information is set to a second number larger than the first number based on the transition condition of Based on the determination result by the state transition determination means (main CPU 110a) and the non-specific gaming state transition determination means or the determination result by the specific gaming state transition determination means When the notice image is determined by the non-specific game state or the specific game state control means (main CPU 110a) for controlling the specific game state and the image determination means, at least until the control of the special game is ended. Information holding means (host CPU 150b) for holding establishment information indicating that the advance notice information has been determined;
The drawing control means, when the establishment information is held by the information holding means, causes the display image storage means to store a notice image based on the establishment information, and the information holding means is the special game control When the control of the special game is terminated by the means, if the specific game state transition determination means determines that the special game state is to be shifted, the established information held is erased, and the specific game state When the transition determining means does not determine that the transition to the specific gaming state is to be made, the establishment information is continuously held.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, the establishment information held when it is determined to shift to the specific gaming state (short-time gaming state) while holding the establishment information at least until the control of the special game is finished. When it is not determined that the game is erased and the game state is changed to the specific game state, the establishment information is continuously held. In addition, since it is in a non-specific gaming state during a special game, the gaming state will not change when the special game is entered after the special game is finished, and when the special game state is entered after the special game is finished. The gaming state will change.
For this reason, when the game state does not change after the special game ends (when the game state shifts to the non-specific game state), the preview image can be continuously displayed even after the special game ends.
On the other hand, when the game state changes after the special game ends (when the game state shifts to the specific game state), the preview image cannot be displayed even after the special game ends. Thereby, the determination result determined by the prior determination unit in the non-specific gaming state (notification content notified by the notice image) and the determination result determined by the specific information determination unit in the specific gaming state due to the change in the gaming state It is possible to prevent the inconsistency of the data from being obtained.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the gaming machine according to the first to third aspects, at least the image storage unit, the image determination unit, the display image storage unit, the drawing control unit, and the display control unit, If the determination is performed by the image control means (the image control board 150) that comprehensively controls the display of the predetermined image on the image display device and the prior determination means, the determination result corresponds to the determination result. Control signal output means (main control board 110) for outputting a notice control signal to the image control means,
The image determining means determines the notice image based on the inputted notice control signal, and the control signal output means outputs the notice control signal when the special game is controlled by the special game control. It is characterized by restricting.

  According to the invention described in claim 4, when the special game is controlled, the notice control signal is not used as the image control means. Therefore, when the image control means is controlling the special game in the first place. It is possible to omit the display process of the preview image related to the acquired normal determination information.

According to the present invention, even if it is decided to draw a preview image for notifying the opening / closing of the start variable prize-winning device and a special effect image (a jackpot effect image), the image information of the preview image is erased from the display image storage means. Then, the special effect image is preferentially displayed.
For this reason, while displaying the notice image for performing the notice of the opening / closing state of the start variable winning device and the effect image for performing a specific effect on the same display device, the degree of freedom of the display method of the effect image is increased. Can be improved. Further, by improving the degree of freedom of the display method of the effect image, it is possible to further improve the interest of the game.

It is a front view of a gaming machine. It is a perspective view of the gaming machine with the glass frame opened. It is a perspective view of the back side of a gaming machine. It is a block diagram of the whole gaming machine. It is a block diagram of an image control board. It is an example of the structure figure of a control register. It is a figure which shows a big hit determination table and a hit determination table. It is a figure which shows a symbol determination table. It is a figure which shows a big hit end time setting data table. It is a figure which shows the variation pattern determination table of a special symbol. It is a figure which shows the prior determination table of a normal symbol display apparatus. It is a figure which shows the variation production pattern determination table. It is a figure which shows a pending | holding display mode determination table. It is a figure which shows the main process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the timer interruption process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the input control process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the special figure special electric control process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the special symbol memory | storage determination process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the classification of the command transmitted to a production | presentation control board from a main control board. It is a figure which shows the main process in an effect control board. It is a figure which shows the timer interruption process in an effect control board. It is a figure which shows the command analysis process 1 in an effect control board. It is a figure which shows the command analysis process 2 in an effect control board. It is a figure which shows the main process in host CPU. It is a figure which shows the production | presentation instruction | command command analysis control processing in host CPU. It is a figure which shows the interruption process in host CPU. It is an example of an anime group and an anime pattern. It is an example of the display list of a variation production pattern. It is an example of a display list of a jackpot effect pattern. It is a figure which shows the expansion | extension control processing in an expansion | extension circuit. It is a figure which shows the drawing control process in a drawing circuit. It is a figure which shows the display control process in a display circuit. It is explanatory drawing explaining the game content displayed with a liquid crystal display device. It is the block diagram 1 of the display screen of the change production pattern in a liquid crystal display device. FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram 2 of a display screen of a variation effect pattern in a liquid crystal display device. It is a block diagram of the display screen of the jackpot effect pattern in a liquid crystal display device.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

(Composition of gaming machine)
Next, the configuration of the gaming machine 1 will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 1 of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the gaming machine 1 with the glass frame of the present invention opened, and FIG. 3 is a rear side of one gaming machine 1. It is a perspective view.

  The gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame 60 attached to an island facility of a game store, and a glass frame 50 that is rotatably supported by the outer frame 60 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). In addition, the outer frame 60 is provided with a game board 2 in which a game area 6 in which the game ball 200 flows down is formed. In the glass frame 50, an operation handle 3 for launching a game ball toward the game area 6 by being rotated, an audio output device 32 including a speaker, an effect lighting device 34 having a plurality of lamps, An effect button 35 for changing the effect mode by a pressing operation is provided.

  Further, the glass frame 50 is provided with a tray 40 for storing a plurality of game balls 200, and the tray 40 has a downward slope so that the game balls 200 flow down in the direction of the operation handle 3. (See FIG. 2). A receiving opening for receiving a game ball is provided at the end of the downward slope of the tray 40, and the game ball received in the receiving opening is driven by the ball feed solenoid 4b, so that the glass frame 50 One by one is sent to the ball feed opening 41 provided on the back surface. Then, the game ball sent out to the ball feed opening 41 is guided to the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42 by the launch rail 42 having a downward slope toward the launching member 4c. A stopper 43 for stopping and stopping the game ball is provided above the end of the downward slope of the launch rail 42, and the game ball 200 sent out from the ball feed opening 41 has a downward slope of the launch rail 42. One game ball is stopped at the end (see FIG. 2).

  When the player touches the operation handle 3, the touch sensor 3a provided inside the operation handle 3 detects that the operation handle 3 is in contact with the player, and the launch solenoid 4a Allow energization of. Further, when the player rotates the operation handle 3, the firing volume 3b composed of a variable resistor directly connected to the operation handle 3 is also rotated, and the voltage supplied to the firing control board 160 by the firing volume 3b is varied. .

  The launch control board 160 (see FIG. 4) energizes the launch solenoid 4a, which is a rotary solenoid, based on the voltage varied by the launch volume 3b. When the firing solenoid 4a is energized, the launch member 4c directly connected to the launch solenoid 4a rotates, and the game ball 200 stored at the end of the firing rail 42 at the downward slope is launched by the launch member 4c. A game ball will be fired.

  When the game ball fired as described above rises between the rails 5a and 5b from the launch rail 42 and exceeds the ball return prevention piece 5c, the game ball reaches the game area 6 and then falls in the game area 6. At this time, the game ball falls unpredictably by a plurality of nails and windmills provided in the game area 6.

  The game area 6 is provided with a plurality of general winning awards 12. Each of these general winning ports 12 is provided with a general winning port detecting switch 12a. When the general winning port detecting switch 12a detects a winning of a game ball, a predetermined winning ball (for example, ten game balls) is provided. To be paid out.

  Further, in the area below the center of the game area 6, there are a first start port 14 and a second start port 15 that constitute a start area into which game balls can enter, and a second large area in which game balls can enter. A winning opening 17 is provided.

  The second starting port 15 has a pair of movable pieces 15b, a first mode in which the pair of movable pieces 15b is maintained in a closed state, and a second state in which the pair of movable pieces 15b are in an open state. The movable control is performed. When the second starting port 15 is controlled in the first mode, the winning member of the second large winning port 17 located immediately above the second starting port 15 becomes an obstacle, and the game ball Is impossible to accept. On the other hand, when the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode, the pair of movable pieces 15b function as a tray, and it is easy to win a game ball to the second start port 15. That is, when the second start port 15 is in the first mode, there is no game ball winning opportunity, and when it is in the second mode, the game ball winning opportunity is increased.

Here, the first start port 14 is provided with a first start port detection switch 14a for detecting the entrance of a game ball, and the second start port 15 is provided with a second start port detection switch for detecting the entrance of a game ball. 15a is provided. When the first start port detection switch 14a or the second start port detection switch 15a detects the entrance of a game ball, a lottery for acquiring a right to execute a jackpot game (to be described later) (hereinafter referred to as a “hit lottery”) is performed. Is called. Also, when the first start port detection switch 14a or the second start port detection switch 15a detects the entry of a game ball, a predetermined prize ball (for example, three game balls) is paid out.
In the present embodiment, the start port detection switch 14a and the second start port detection switch 15a constitute a start region detecting means.

  In addition, the second grand prize winning port 17 is configured by an opening formed in the game board 2. Below the second big prize opening 17, there is a second big prize opening / closing door 17b that can be erected from the game board surface side to the glass plate 52 side. The second big prize opening opening / closing door 17b is a game. Movement control is performed between an open state standing on the board surface side and a closed state buried in the game board surface. When the second grand prize opening opening / closing door 17b is erected on the game board surface, it functions as a tray for guiding the game ball into the second big prize opening 17, and the game ball enters the second big prize opening 17. It becomes possible. The second big prize opening 17 is provided with a second big prize opening detection switch 17a. When the second big prize opening detection switch 17a detects the entry of a game ball, a predetermined prize ball (for example, 15 game balls) are paid out.

Furthermore, in the area on the right side of the game area 6, there are provided a normal symbol gate 13 constituting a normal area through which game balls can pass and a first grand prize opening 16 through which game balls can enter.
For this reason, if the operation ball 3 is not a game ball which has been greatly rotated and launched with a strong force, the normal design gate 13 and the first big winning opening 16 are configured so that the game ball does not pass or win. Yes. In particular, even if the short game state, which will be described later, is entered, if the game ball flows down to the left side of the game area 6, the game ball does not pass through the normal symbol gate 13, so that it is at the second start port 15. The pair of movable pieces 15b are not opened, and it is difficult for a game ball to win the second starting port 15.

The normal symbol gate 13 is provided with a gate detection switch 13a for detecting the passage of the game ball. When the gate detection switch 13a detects the passage of the game ball, a “normal symbol lottery” described later is performed. .
In the present embodiment, the gate detection switch 13a constitutes a normal area detection unit.

The first grand prize opening 16 is normally kept closed by the first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b, and it is impossible to enter a game ball. In contrast, when a special game, which will be described later, is started, the first grand prize opening opening / closing door 16b is opened, and the first big prize opening opening / closing door 16b puts the game ball in the first big winning opening 16; It functions as a receiving tray for guiding, and the game ball can enter the first grand prize opening 16. The first grand prize opening 16 is provided with a first big prize opening detection switch 16a. When the first big prize opening detection switch 16a detects the entry of a game ball, a predetermined prize ball (for example, 15 Game balls).
In the present embodiment, the first big prize opening 16 having the first big prize opening / closing door 16b and the second big prize opening 17 having the second big prize opening / closing door 17b constitute a special variable prize winning device. In the present embodiment, the special variable winning device and / or the starting variable winning device constitutes a variable winning device.

  Further, in the lowermost area of the game area 6 and the lowermost area of the game area 6, the general winning opening 12, the first starting opening 14, the second starting opening 15, the first major winning opening 16, and the second large winning opening. An out port 11 is provided for discharging game balls that have not entered any of the winning ports 17.

  In addition, a decoration member 7 that affects the flow of the game ball is provided in the center of the game area 6. A liquid crystal display device 31 composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD) or the like is provided at a substantially central portion of the decorative member 7. Above the liquid crystal display device 31, an effect driving device 33 in the form of a belt is provided. Is provided. In this embodiment, the liquid crystal display device 31 is used as a liquid crystal display. However, a plasma display may be used, a projector, a reel made of an annular structure, a so-called 7-segment LED, a dot matrix, or the like. A display device or the like may be used.

The liquid crystal display device 31 displays an image during standby when no game is being performed, or displays an image according to the progress of the game. Among them, three effect symbols 36 for informing the jackpot lottery result, which will be described later, are displayed, and a combination of specific effect symbols 36 (for example, 777) is stopped and displayed as a jackpot lottery result. A big hit is announced.
More specifically, when a game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15, the three effect symbols 36 are scroll-displayed, and the scroll is stopped after a predetermined time, The effect design 36 is stopped and displayed. Further, by displaying various images, characters, and the like during the variation display of the effect symbol 36, a high expectation that the player may win a big hit is given to the player.

  The effect driving device 33 gives a player a sense of expectation according to the operation mode. The effect driving device 33 performs, for example, an operation in which the belt moves downward or a rotating member at the center of the belt rotates. Various operational feelings are given to the player depending on the operation mode of the effect driving device 33.

  Furthermore, in addition to the above-described various production devices, the audio output device 32 outputs BGM (background music), SE (sound effects), etc., and produces productions using sound. The illumination direction and the emission color are changed to produce an effect by illumination.

  The effect button 35 is effective only when, for example, a message for operating the effect button 35 is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31. The effect button 35 is provided with an effect button detection switch 35a. When the effect button detection switch 35a detects the player's operation, a further effect is executed according to this operation.

  In the lower right of the game area 6, a first special symbol display device 20, a second special symbol display device 21, a normal symbol display device 22, a first special symbol hold indicator 23, a second special symbol hold indicator 24, a normal A symbol hold indicator 25 is provided.

  The first special symbol display device 20 is for notifying a lottery result obtained when a game ball enters the first start port 14, and is composed of 7-segment LEDs. That is, a plurality of special symbols corresponding to the jackpot lottery result are provided, and the lottery result is notified to the player by displaying the special symbol corresponding to the jackpot lottery result on the first special symbol display device 20. Like that. For example, “7” is displayed when the jackpot is won, and “−” is displayed when the player wins. “7” and “−” displayed in this way are special symbols, but these special symbols are not displayed immediately, but are displayed in a stopped state after being displayed for a predetermined time. .

  Here, the “successful lottery” means that when a game ball enters the first starting port 14 or the second starting port 15, a special symbol determining random number value is acquired, and the acquired special symbol determining random value is acquired. Is a random number value corresponding to “big hit” or a random number value corresponding to “small hit”. The jackpot lottery result is not immediately notified to the player, and the first special symbol display device 20 displays a variation such as blinking of the special symbol, and when the predetermined variation time has passed, The special symbol corresponding to is stopped and displayed so that the player is notified of the lottery result. The second special symbol display device 21 is for notifying a lottery result of a jackpot that is performed when a game ball enters the second start port 15, and the display mode is the above-described first display mode. This is the same as the special symbol display mode in the special symbol display device 20.

  Further, in this embodiment, “big hit” means that a right to win a big hit game is obtained in a big win lottery performed on condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 Say what you did. In the “hit game”, a round game in which the first big prize opening 16 or the second big prize opening 17 is opened is performed 15 times in total. A predetermined time is set for the total opening time of the first grand prize port 16 or the second grand prize port 17 in each round game, and during this time, the first grand prize port 16 or the second major prize port 17 is set. When a predetermined number of game balls (for example, nine) enter, one round game is completed. In other words, the “big hit game” is that a game ball enters the first grand prize winning port 16 or the second big prize winning port 17 and the player can acquire a prize ball according to the winning ball. It is a game that can earn.

  The normal symbol display device 22 is for notifying the lottery result of the normal symbol that is performed when the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13. As will be described in detail later, when the winning symbol is won by the normal symbol lottery, the normal symbol display device 22 is turned on, and then the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for a predetermined time.

  Here, “normal symbol lottery” means that when a game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13, the normal symbol determination random number value is acquired, and the acquired normal symbol determination random value corresponds to “winning”. This is a process for determining whether or not a random value. The lottery result of the normal symbol is not always notified immediately after the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13, but the normal symbol display device 22 displays a variation such as blinking of the normal symbol. When the fluctuation time elapses, the normal symbol corresponding to the lottery result of the normal symbol is stopped and displayed so that the player is notified of the lottery result.

Furthermore, if a game ball enters the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 during special symbol fluctuation display or a special game to be described later, and if a big win lottery cannot be performed immediately, a certain condition The right to win a jackpot will be withheld. More specifically, the random number value for special symbol determination acquired when the game ball enters the first start port 14 is stored as the first hold, and when the game ball enters the second start port 15 The acquired special symbol determination random number value is stored as the second hold.
For both of these holds, the upper limit hold number is set to 4, and the hold number is displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 23 and the second special symbol hold indicator 24, respectively. When there is one first hold, the LED on the left side of the first special symbol hold indicator 23 lights up, and when there are two first holds, two LEDs on the first special symbol hold indicator 23 Lights up. In addition, when there are three first holds, the LED on the left side of the first special symbol hold indicator 23 blinks and the right LED is lit, and when there are four first holds, the first special symbol hold. Two LEDs on the display 23 blink. The second special symbol hold indicator 24 also displays the number of second hold on hold in the same manner as described above.
The upper limit number of normal symbols is also set to four, and the number of reserved symbols is displayed in the normal symbol hold display in the same manner as the first special symbol hold indicator 23 and the second special symbol hold indicator 24. Displayed on the instrument 25.

  The glass frame 50 supports a glass plate 52 that covers the game area 6 so as to be visible in front of the game board 2 (player side). The glass plate 52 is detachably fixed to the glass frame 50.

  The glass frame 50 is connected to the outer frame 60 via a hinge mechanism 51 on one end side in the left-right direction (for example, the left side facing the gaming machine 1). The end side (for example, the right side facing the gaming machine 1) can be rotated in a direction to release from the outer frame 60. The glass frame 50 covers the game board 2 together with the glass plate 52, and can be opened like a door with the hinge mechanism 51 as a fulcrum to open the inner part of the outer frame 60 including the game board 2. On the other end side of the glass frame 50, a lock mechanism for fixing the other end side of the glass frame 50 to the outer frame 60 is provided. The fixing by the lock mechanism can be released by a dedicated key. The glass frame 50 is also provided with a door opening switch 133 that detects whether or not the glass frame 50 is opened from the outer frame 60.

  On the back side of the gaming machine 1, a main control board 110, an effect control board 120, a payout control board 130, a power supply board 170, a game information output terminal board 30, and the like are provided. The power supply board 170 is provided with a power plug 171 for supplying power to the gaming machine 1 and a power switch (not shown).

(Block diagram of the entire gaming machine)
Next, control means for controlling the progress of the game will be described using the block diagram of the entire gaming machine 1 in FIG.

  The main control board 110 is a main control means for controlling the basic operation of the game, and receives various detection signals from the first start port detection switch 14a, etc., and the first special symbol display device 20 and the first big winning port opening / closing solenoid. The game is controlled by driving 16c and the like.

  The main control board 110 includes at least a one-chip microcomputer 110m including a main CPU 110a, a main ROM 110b, and a main RAM 110c, an input port for main control, and an output port (not shown).

  The main control input port includes a payout control board 130, a general winning port detection switch 12a for detecting that a game ball has entered the general winning port 12, and a game ball having entered the normal symbol gate 13. Gate detection switch 13a to detect, first start port detection switch 14a to detect that a game ball has entered the first start port 14, and second start to detect that a game ball has entered the second start port 15 The mouth detection switch 15a, the first grand prize opening detection switch 16a that detects that a game ball has entered the first grand prize opening 16, and the second that detects that a game ball has entered the second grand prize opening 17 A big prize opening detection switch 17a is connected. Various signals are input to the main control board 110 through the main control input port.

  The main control output port includes a payout control board 130, a start opening / closing solenoid 15c for opening / closing the pair of movable pieces 15b of the second start opening 15, and a first large winning opening opening / closing door 16b. A special winning opening / closing solenoid 16c, a second large winning opening / closing solenoid 17c for operating the second winning opening / closing door 17b, a first special symbol display device 20 and a second special symbol display device 21 for displaying special symbols, and a normal symbol. A normal symbol display device 22 for displaying a symbol, a first special symbol hold indicator 23 and a second special symbol hold indicator 24 for displaying the number of reserved balls for a special symbol, and a normal symbol hold indicator for displaying the number of reserved balls for a normal symbol 25. A game information output terminal board 30 for outputting an external information signal is connected. Various signals are output from the main control output port.

  The main CPU 110a reads out a program stored in the main ROM 110b based on an input signal from each detection switch or timer, performs arithmetic processing, directly controls each device or display, or determines the result of the arithmetic processing. In response, a command is transmitted to another board.

The main ROM 110b of the main control board 110 stores a game control program and data and tables necessary for determining various games.
For example, a jackpot determination table referred to in the jackpot lottery (see FIG. 7), a hit determination table referred to in the normal symbol lottery (see FIG. 7), and a symbol determination table for determining a special symbol stop symbol (see FIG. 8). , A jackpot end setting data table (see FIG. 9) for determining the gaming state after the jackpot end, a variation pattern determination table (see FIG. 10) for determining the variation pattern of the special symbol, the opening / closing conditions of the big prize opening / closing door Are stored in the main ROM 110b.
Note that the above-described table is merely an example of characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment, and a number of other tables and programs (not shown) are provided for the progress of the game. ing.

The main RAM 110c of the main control board 110 functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the main CPU 110a and has a plurality of storage areas.
For example, in the main RAM 110c, the normal symbol hold number (G) storage area, the normal symbol hold storage area, the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area, the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area, the first special hold Design random number value storage area, second special symbol random number value storage area, round game number (R) storage area, number of times released (K) storage area, number of winning games (C) storage area, game state storage area (high (Probability game flag storage area and short-time game flag storage area), high-probability game count (X) counter, short-time count (J) counter, game state buffer, stop symbol data storage region, effect transmission data storage region, special symbol time counter Various timer counters such as special game timer counters are provided. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.
In the present embodiment, the main RAM 101c that stores the normal symbol reservation storage area constitutes the normal reservation storage means.

  The game information output terminal board 30 is a board for outputting an external information signal generated in the main control board 110 to a hall computer or the like of the game shop. The game information output terminal board 30 is connected to the main control board 110 by wiring, and is provided with a connector for connecting external information to a hall computer or the like of a game store.

  The power supply board 170 includes a backup power supply made of a capacitor, supplies a power supply voltage to the gaming machine 1, and monitors a power supply voltage supplied to the gaming machine 1, and when the power supply voltage becomes a predetermined value or less, An interruption detection signal is output to the main control board 110. More specifically, when the power interruption detection signal becomes high level, the main CPU 110a enters an operable state, and when the power interruption detection signal becomes low level, the main CPU 110a enters an operation stop state. The backup power source is not limited to a capacitor, and for example, a battery may be used, and a capacitor and a battery may be used in combination.

  The effect control board 120 mainly controls each effect such as during a game or standby. The effect control board 120 includes a sub CPU 120a, a sub ROM 120b, and a sub RAM 120c, and is connected to the main control board 110 so as to be communicable in one direction from the main control board 110 to the effect control board 120. . The sub CPU 120a reads out the program stored in the sub ROM 120b based on the command transmitted from the main control board 110, or the input signal from the effect button detection switch 35a and the timer, and performs arithmetic processing. Based on the above, the corresponding data is transmitted to the lamp control board 140 or the image control board 150. The sub RAM 120c functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the sub CPU 120a.

  For example, when the sub CPU 120a in the effect control board 120 receives the fluctuation pattern designation command indicating the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol from the main control board 110, the contents of the received fluctuation pattern designation command are analyzed, and the liquid crystal display device 31, the voice Data for causing the output device 32, the effect driving device 33, and the effect lighting device 34 to execute a predetermined effect is generated, and the data is transmitted to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140.

The sub ROM 120b of the effect control board 120 stores a program for effect control, data necessary for determining various games, and a table.
For example, an effect pattern determination table for determining an effect pattern based on a variation pattern designation command received from the main control board, an effect symbol determination table for determining a combination of effect symbols 36 to be stopped, and the like are stored in the sub ROM 120b. Has been. Note that the above-described table is merely an example of characteristic tables among the tables in the present embodiment, and a number of other tables and programs (not shown) are provided for the progress of the game. ing.

The sub RAM 120c of the effect control board 120 has a plurality of storage areas.
The sub RAM 120c is provided with a game state storage area, an effect mode storage area, an effect pattern storage area, an effect symbol storage area, and the like. Note that the above-described storage area is merely an example, and many other storage areas are provided.

  The payout control board 130 performs payout control of game balls. The payout control board 130 includes a one-chip microcomputer including a payout CPU, a payout ROM, and a payout RAM (not shown), and is connected to the main control board 110 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication. The payout CPU reads out the program stored in the payout ROM based on the input signals from the payout ball count detection switch 132, the door opening switch 133, and the timer for detecting whether or not the game ball has been paid out, and performs arithmetic processing. At the same time, based on the processing, the corresponding data is transmitted to the main control board 110. Further, a payout motor 131 of a prize ball payout device for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls from a game ball storage unit to a player is connected to the output side of the payout control board 130. The payout CPU reads out a predetermined program from the payout ROM based on the payout number designation command transmitted from the main control board 110, performs arithmetic processing, and controls the payout motor 131 of the prize ball payout device to execute a predetermined prize. Pay the ball to the player. At this time, the payout RAM functions as a data work area at the time of calculation processing of the payout CPU.

  The lamp control board 140 controls the lighting of the effect lighting device 34 provided on the game board 2 and controls the driving of the motor for changing the light irradiation direction. In addition, energization control is performed on a drive source such as a solenoid or a motor that operates the effect driving device 33. The lamp control board 140 is connected to the effect control board 120 and performs the above-described controls based on various commands transmitted from the effect control board 120.

The image control board 150 is connected to the liquid crystal display device 31 and the audio output device 32, and based on various commands transmitted from the effect control board 120, image display control and audio output device in the liquid crystal display device 31. The sound output control at 32 is performed.
Detailed description of the image control board 150 will be described later with reference to the block diagram of the image control board of FIG.

  The launch control board 160 performs launch control of the game ball. The launch control board 160 has a touch sensor 3a and a launch volume 3b connected to the input side, and a launch solenoid 4a and a ball feed solenoid 4b connected to the output side. The firing control board 160 inputs a touch signal from the touch sensor 3a and performs control to energize the firing solenoid 4a and the ball feed solenoid 4b based on the voltage supplied from the firing volume 3b.

  The touch sensor 3a includes a capacitive proximity switch that uses a change in capacitance caused by the player touching the operation handle 3. When the touch sensor 3a detects that the player has touched the operation handle 3, the touch sensor 3a is fired. A touch signal that permits energization of the firing solenoid 4a is output to the control board 160 (see FIG. 4).

  The firing volume 3b is composed of a variable resistor, and a constant voltage (for example, 5V) applied to the firing volume 3b is divided by the variable resistor, and the divided voltage is supplied to the firing control board 160.

  The launching solenoid 4a is composed of a rotary solenoid, and a launching member 4c is directly connected to the launching solenoid 4a. When the launching solenoid 4a rotates, the game ball 200 is launched by the launching member 4c. Become.

  Here, the rotation speed of the firing solenoid 4a is set to about 99.9 (times / minute) based on the frequency based on the output period of the crystal oscillator provided on the firing control board 160. As a result, the number of games played per minute is about 99.9 (pieces / minute) because one shot is fired every time the firing solenoid rotates. That is, one game ball is fired about every 0.6 seconds.

  The ball feed solenoid 4b is composed of a linear solenoid, and sends out the game balls in the tray 40 one by one toward the launch member 4c directly connected to the launch solenoid 4a.

(Block diagram of image control board)
Next, image display control will be described using the block diagram of the image control board 150 in FIG.

  The image control board 150 includes a host CPU 150a, a host RAM 150b, a host ROM 150c, a CGROM 151, a crystal oscillator 152, a VRAM 153, a VDP (Video Display Processor) 2000, and a sound control circuit 3000 for performing image display control of the liquid crystal display device 31. ing.

Based on the effect pattern designation command received from the effect control board 120, the host CPU 150a instructs the liquid crystal display device 31 (LCD) to display the image data stored in the CGROM 151 in the VDP 2000. Such an instruction is performed by setting data in the control register 2010 in the VDP 2000 and outputting a display list including drawing control command groups.
In addition, when receiving a V blank interrupt signal or a drawing end signal from the VDP 2000, the host CPU 150a appropriately performs an interrupt process.

  Furthermore, the host CPU 150a also instructs the audio control circuit 3000 to output predetermined audio data to the audio output device 32 based on the effect pattern designation command received from the effect control board 120.

  The host RAM 150b is built in the host CPU 150a, functions as a data work area when the host CPU 150a performs arithmetic processing, and temporarily stores data read from the host ROM 150c.

The host ROM 150c is composed of a mask ROM, a control processing program for the host CPU 150a, a display list generation program for generating a display list, an animation pattern for displaying an animation of a production pattern, animation scene information, and the like. Is stored (see FIG. 27).
This animation pattern is referred to when displaying the animation of the production pattern, and stores the combination of animation scene information included in the production pattern, the display order of each animation scene information, and the like. The animation scene information stores information such as weight frame (display time), target data (sprite identification number, transfer source address, etc.), parameters (sprite display position, transfer destination address, etc.), drawing method, etc. is doing.

The CGROM 151 includes a flash memory, an EEPROM, an EPROM, a mask ROM, and the like. The CGROM 151 compresses and stores image data (sprite, movie) or the like including a collection of pixel information in a predetermined range of pixels (for example, 32 × 32 pixels). ing. The pixel information is composed of color number information for designating a color number for each pixel and an α value indicating the transparency of the image.
Further, the CGROM 151 stores palette data in which color number information for designating color numbers and display color information for actually displaying colors are associated with each other without being compressed.
Note that the CGROM 151 may have a configuration in which only a part of the image data is compressed without being compressed. As a movie compression method, various known compression methods such as MPEG4 can be used.

  The crystal oscillator 152 outputs a pulse signal to the VDP 2000 (clock generation circuit 2050), and divides the pulse signal, thereby the system clock for the VDP 2000 to control in the clock generation circuit 2050, the liquid crystal display device 31 ( A synchronization signal for synchronizing with the LCD) is generated.

The VRAM 153 is composed of an SRAM that can write or read image data at high speed.
The VRAM 153 also draws or displays an image, a display list storage area 153a that temporarily stores the display list output from the host CPU 150a, a decompression storage area 153b that stores image data decompressed by the decompression circuit 2060, and the like. A first frame buffer 153c and a second frame buffer 153d. The VRAM 153 also stores palette data.
The two frame buffers are alternately switched between a “drawing frame buffer” and a “display frame buffer” every time drawing is started.

  The VDP 2000 is a so-called image processor, reads image data from one of the frame buffers (display frame buffer) based on an instruction from the host CPU 150a, and outputs a video signal (RGB signal or the like) based on the read image data. Is generated and output to the liquid crystal display device.

  The VDP 2000 includes a control register 2010, a CG bus I / F 2020, a CPU I / F 2030, a clock generation circuit 2050, a decompression circuit 2060, a drawing circuit 2070, a display circuit 2080, and a memory controller 2090. ing.

The control register 2010 is a register for the VDP 2000 to control drawing and display, and drawing control and display control are performed by writing and reading data to and from the control register 2010. The host CPU 150a can write and read data to and from the control register 2010 via the CPU I / F 2030.
The control register 2010 includes a system control register that performs basic settings necessary for VDP operation, a data transfer register that performs settings necessary for data transfer, and a drawing that performs settings for controlling drawing. A register, a bus interface register for making settings necessary for bus access, a decompression register for making settings necessary for decompressing a compressed image, a display register for making settings for controlling display, and six types It has a register.
The configuration of this control register will be described later with reference to FIG.

The CG bus I / F 2020 is an interface circuit for communication with the CGROM 151, and image data from the CGROM 151 is input to the VDP 2000 via the CG bus I / F 2020.
The CPU I / F 2030 is an interface circuit for communication with the host CPU 150a, and the host CPU 150a outputs a display list to the VDP 2000, accesses a control register, and accesses from the VDP 2000 via the CPU I / F 2030. Various interrupt signals are input by the host CPU 150a.

The data transfer circuit 2040 performs data transfer between various devices.
Specifically, data transfer between the host CPU 150a and the VRAM 153, data transfer between the CGROM 151 and the VRAM 153, and data transfer between various storage areas (including the frame buffer) of the VRAM 153 are performed.

  The clock generation circuit 2050 receives a pulse signal from the crystal oscillator 152 and generates a system clock that determines the operation processing speed of the VDP2000. Also, a synchronization signal generation clock is generated, and the synchronization signal is output to the liquid crystal display device via the display circuit.

  The decompression circuit 2060 is a circuit for decompressing the image data compressed in the CGROM 151, and stores the decompressed image data in the expanded storage area 153b.

  The drawing circuit 2070 is a circuit that performs sequence control based on a display list including drawing control command groups.

The display circuit 2080 generates an RGB signal (analog signal) indicating image color data as a video signal from the image data (digital signal) stored in the “display frame buffer” in the VRAM 153, and the generated video signal ( (RGB signal) is output to the liquid crystal display device 31 (LCD). Further, the display circuit 2080 also outputs a synchronization signal (vertical synchronization signal, horizontal synchronization signal, etc.) for synchronizing with the liquid crystal display device 31 (LCD) to the liquid crystal display device 31.
In the present embodiment, an RGB signal obtained by converting a digital signal into an analog signal is output as a video signal to a liquid crystal display (LCD). However, the video signal may be output as the digital signal.

  The memory controller 2090 performs control to switch between the “drawing frame buffer” and the “display frame buffer” when the host CPU 150a instructs to switch the frame buffer.

  The sound control circuit 3000 includes an audio ROM that stores a large number of audio data. The sound control circuit reads out a predetermined program based on a command transmitted from the effect control board 120, and an audio output device. The sound output control at 32 is performed.

(Structure of control register in VDP2000)
Here, the configuration of the control register 2010 provided in the VDP 2000 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a structural diagram showing extracted representative data of the control register 2010 in the VDP2000.

  As described above, the control register 2010 includes six types of registers, that is, a system control register, a data transfer register, a drawing register, a bus interface register, an expansion register, and a display register. It is the structure figure which extracted and showed the typical data of the register | resistor, the expansion | extension register | resistor, and the display register.

FIG. 6A is a structural diagram in which 0th to 1st bits of the system control register are extracted. The 0th bit of the system control register is data instructing to output a V blank interrupt signal, and the 1st bit of the system control register is data instructing to output a drawing end interrupt signal. The 0th to 1st bits of these system control registers correspond to “interrupt registers”.
Specifically, the clock generation circuit 2050 generates a V blank interrupt signal (vertical synchronization signal) every 1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms), and system control is performed every time the V blank interrupt signal is generated. 1 is set to 0 bit of the register. Further, when the drawing is completed, the drawing circuit 2070 sets 1 to the first bit of the system control register.
When 1 is set in these “interrupt registers”, the CPU I / F 2030 outputs a V blank interrupt signal or a drawing end interrupt signal to the host CPU 150a. The CPU I / F 2030 sets 0 to corresponding bits of various interrupt registers after outputting various interrupt signals.

FIG. 6B is a structural diagram in which the 0th bit of the drawing register is extracted. The 0th bit of the drawing register is data that instructs the drawing circuit 2070 to start drawing.
Specifically, the host CPU 150 a sets 1 to the 0 bit of the drawing register via the CPU I / F 2030 and instructs the drawing circuit 2070 to start drawing. When drawing starts, the drawing circuit 2070 sets 0 to the 0 bit of the drawing register.

FIG. 6C is a structural diagram in which the 0th to 1st bits of the expansion register are extracted. The 0th bit of the expansion register is data instructing the expansion circuit 2060 to start expansion of the compressed image. The first bit of the decompression register is data indicating the decompression execution state of the decompression circuit 2060.
Specifically, the drawing circuit 2070 analyzes the display list output from the host CPU 150a. If the image data to be used does not exist in the expanded storage area 153b of the VRAM 153, the drawing circuit 2070 sets 1 to the 0 bit of the expansion register, The decompression circuit 2060 is instructed to start decompressing image data to be used and store it in the expanded storage area 153b. When the decompression circuit 2060 starts decompression, it sets 0 to the 0 bit of the decompression register.
The decompression circuit 2060 sets 1 to the 1-bit of the decompression register while decompression is being performed, and sets 0 to the 1-bit of the decompression register when the decompression of the compressed image is completed.

FIG. 6D is a structural diagram in which the 0th to 1st bits of the display register are extracted. The 0 bit of the display register is data for instructing the display circuit 2080 to output a video signal, and the 1 bit of the display register is data for specifying the frame buffer of the VRAM 153.
Specifically, the host CPU 150a instructs the display circuit 2080 to create and output a video signal by setting 1 to the 0 bit of the display register via the CPU I / F 2030 when the power is turned on. As a result, the display circuit 2080 generates a video signal based on the designated image data in the “display frame buffer” and outputs the video signal to the liquid crystal display device 31.
If the drawing is finished when the V blank interrupt signal is input, the host CPU 150a adds 1 to the first bit of the display register via the CPU I / F 2030, and displays “display” on the memory controller 2090. An instruction to switch between “frame buffer” and “drawing frame buffer” is given. That is, every time drawing ends, 1 is added to the 1st bit of the display register, so that “0 → 1 → 0 → 1 →...” Is switched.

  The register structure shown in FIG. 6 is merely a representative data extracted from the control register 2010, and it goes without saying that more detailed data exists.

  Next, details of various tables stored in the main ROM 110b will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Big hit judgment table)
FIG. 7 (a-1) and FIG. 7 (a-2) are diagrams showing a jackpot determination table used for the “big winning lottery”. FIG. 7 (a-1) is a jackpot determination table referred to in the first special symbol display device 20, and FIG. 7 (a-2) is a jackpot determination table referred to in the second special symbol display device 21. is there. In the tables of FIG. 7A-1 and FIG. 7A-2, although the winning probabilities for small hits are different, the jackpot probabilities are the same.

Specifically, the big hit determination table is used to determine whether “big hit”, “small hit”, or “losing” based on the probable gaming state and the acquired random number for determining a special symbol.
For example, according to the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 7 (a-1), the two special symbol determination disturbances “7” and “8” are in the low probability gaming state. The number is determined to be a big hit. On the other hand, in the high probability gaming state, 20 special symbol determination random numbers “7” to “26” are determined to be big hits.
Further, according to the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device shown in FIG. 7 (a-1), the random number value for special symbol determination is obtained in the low probability gaming state or the high probability gaming state. In the case of four special symbol determination random numbers “50”, “100”, “150”, and “200”, it is determined as “small hit”. If the random number is other than the above, it is determined as “lost”.
Therefore, since the random number range of the special symbol determination random number value is 0 to 598, the probability of being determined to be a big hit in the low probability gaming state is 1 / 299.5, and in the high probability gaming state, the big hit The probability to be determined is 10 times up to 1 / 29.9. In the first special symbol display device, the probability of being determined to be a small hit is 1 / 149.75 regardless of whether the game state is a low probability game state or a high probability game state.

(Winning judgment table)
FIG. 7B is a diagram showing a hit determination table used for “ordinary symbol lottery”.
Specifically, the winning determination table is for determining “winning” or “losing” based on the gaming state and the acquired random number for normal symbol determination.
For example, according to the hit determination table shown in FIG. 7B, when in the non-time-saving gaming state, it is determined that one specific normal symbol determination random value of “0” is a win. On the other hand, when in the short-time gaming state, it is determined that nine specific random symbols for determining a normal symbol from “0” to “8” are hit. If the random number is other than the above, it is determined as “lost”.
Therefore, since the random number range of the normal symbol determination random value is 0 to 9, the probability of being determined to be hit in the non-short game state is 1/10, and the probability of being determined to be win in the time-short game state is 9/10.

(Design determination table)
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a symbol determination table for determining a special symbol stop symbol.
FIG. 8A is a symbol determination table for determining a stop symbol at the time of a big win, and FIG. 8B is a symbol determination table for determining a stop symbol at a small hit. 8 (c) is a symbol determination table for determining a stop symbol in case of a loss.

Specifically, according to the symbol determination table, when the game ball enters the special symbol display device (the type of the start port from which the game ball has won) and the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 The type of special symbol (stop symbol data) is determined on the basis of the random number value for jackpot symbol or the random number value for jackpot symbol acquired in step (b).
For example, in the first special symbol display device, when the jackpot, the jackpot symbol random number value is referred to, and if the jackpot symbol random number value is “55”, the stop symbol data is “03” (special symbol 3 (first symbol Determine 2)) per probability variation. Further, in the first special symbol display device, the random number value for the small hit symbol is referred to for the small hit, and if the random symbol value for the small hit symbol is “50”, the stop symbol data is “08” (the special symbol B). (Small hit B)). Further, in the case of a loss, “00” (special symbol 0 (lost)) is determined as stop symbol data without referring to any random value.

  Then, at the time of starting the change of the special symbol, an effect designating command is generated as special symbol information based on the determined special symbol type (stop symbol data). Here, the effect designating command is composed of 2-byte data, and 1-byte MODE data for identifying the control command classification and 1-byte DATA indicating the contents of the control command to be executed. It consists of data. The same applies to a start winning designation command, a prior notice designation command, a variation pattern designation command, etc., which will be described later.

  As will be described later, the game state after the jackpot ends (see FIG. 9) and the jackpot mode are determined by the type of special symbol (stop symbol data) and the game state after the jackpot ends. It can be said that the jackpot aspect is determined.

(Set data table at end of jackpot)
FIG. 9 is a jackpot end setting data table for determining the gaming state after the jackpot ends. According to the jackpot end setting data table shown in FIG. 9, based on the special symbol type (stop symbol data) and the gaming state at the time of winning stored in the gaming state buffer, the setting of the high probability gaming flag, the number of high probability games ( X), a short-time game flag, and a short-time count (J) are set.
It should be noted that “00H” in the gaming state buffer indicating the gaming state at the time of winning the big win indicates gaming state information in which neither the short-time gaming flag nor the high probability gaming flag is set, and “01H” indicates that the short-time gaming flag is set. Although the high probability game flag is not set, the game state information is set. “02H” is the game state information in which the short-time game flag is set but the high probability game flag is not set. "" Indicates game state information in which both the short-time game flag and the high probability game flag are set.

As a feature of the table of FIG. 9, when the special symbol 3 (corresponding to the stop symbol data 03, 2 per first probability variation short) is determined in the first special symbol display device 20, it is stored in the gaming state buffer. Based on the game state at the time of winning the big hit, the setting of the short-time game flag and the number of short-time games (J) are varied.
Specifically, in the case of special symbol 3 (corresponding to stop symbol data 03, 2 per first probability variable short), data (00H or 01H) indicating a gaming state in which the short-time gaming flag is not set in the gaming state buffer. If stored, the high probability game flag is set after the jackpot is over and the high probability game count (X) is set to 10000 times, but the short-time game flag is not set and the short-time count (J) is also 0. Set to times.
On the other hand, if data (02H or 03H) indicating the gaming state in which the short-time gaming flag is set is stored in the gaming state buffer, the high-probability gaming flag is set and the high-probability gaming count (X ) Is set to 10,000 times, the hourly game flag is also set, and the number of hourly times (J) is also set to 10,000 times.
Thereby, the number of time reductions (J) can be changed, and the player can enjoy what the gaming state at the time of winning the jackpot is.

(Special symbol variation pattern determination table)
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a variation pattern determination table for determining a variation pattern of special symbols as will be described later.

  Specifically, according to the special symbol variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 10, the special symbol display device that operates (the type of the starting opening that the game ball won), the jackpot determination result, the special symbol to stop, and the short-time gaming state Based on the presence / absence, the number of special symbol reservations, the reach determination random number value, and the special symbol variation random value, the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined. Based on the determined special symbol variation pattern, the special symbol variation time is determined, and a special symbol variation pattern designation command for transmitting the special symbol information to the effect control board 120 is generated. Therefore, it can be said that the “special symbol variation pattern” defines at least the jackpot determination result and the special symbol variation time. In addition, since a reach is always performed when a big hit or a small hit, the reach determination random number value is not referred to when a big hit or a small win. In addition, the random number range for reach determination and the random number value for special figure variation are set to 100 random numbers (0 to 99).

  Here, the special symbol variation pattern designation command is composed of 1-byte MODE data for identifying the command classification and 1-byte DATA data indicating the content (function) of the command. When the MODE data is “E6H”, a special symbol variation pattern designation command (of the first special symbol display device 20) corresponding to the winning of the game ball at the first start port 14 is shown. "E7H" indicates a special symbol variation pattern designation command (of the second special symbol display device 21) corresponding to the winning of a game ball in the second starting port 15.

  Further, as a feature of the special symbol variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 10, when the jackpot determination result is lost, the special symbol variation time is set to be short when the game is in the short-time gaming state. For example, when the jackpot determination result is a loss and the number of held balls is 2, if the game is in the short-time game state, the variation pattern 9 (shortened variation) with a variation time of 3000 ms with a probability of 95% based on the reach determination random value However, if it is a non-time-saving gaming state, a variation pattern in which the variation time exceeds 3000 ms is determined. In this manner, the variation time is set to be short when the time-saving gaming state is entered.

(Prior judgment table for normal symbol display device)
FIG. 11 refers to the acquired normal symbol determination random value before “ordinary symbol lottery”, and determines in advance whether or not the referenced normal symbol determination random value is a random value corresponding to “win”. It is a figure which shows the prior determination table of the normal symbol display apparatus for determining.

  Specifically, the pre-determination table of the normal symbol display device shown in FIG. 11 is for a specific normal symbol determination that is determined to be “winning” in advance so as to be the same as the lottery result of “normal symbol lottery”. The random number value and the specific random number for determining normal symbols determined as “winning” in the “normal symbol lottery” are the same value (see FIG. 7B).

  Then, based on the previous determination result using the prior determination table of the normal symbol display device of FIG. 11, a prior notice designation command for informing in advance the determination result determined by the “normal symbol lottery” is generated. The The generated prior notice designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 120. It should be noted that, when the short-time gaming state or the big hit game is being executed, the advance determination process described later is not performed, and therefore the advance notice designation command is not generated.

  Next, details of various tables stored in the sub ROM 120b will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Variation production pattern determination table)
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a variation effect pattern determination table for determining the variation mode of the effect symbol 36 in the liquid crystal display device 31 or the like.

The sub CPU 120a determines the variation effect pattern based on the special symbol variation pattern designation command and the effect random number 1 received from the main control board 110. Here, even if the variation pattern designation command has the same special symbol, since the different variation representation pattern can be determined based on the random number for production 1, the number of variation pattern designation commands for the special symbol is reduced. Thus, the storage capacity of the main control board 110 is reduced.
The “variation effect pattern” refers to a specific effect mode in effect means (liquid crystal display device 31, audio output device 32, effect drive device 33, effect illumination device 34) performed during the change of the special symbol. Say. For example, in the liquid crystal display device 31, the display mode of the background, the display mode of the character, and the variation mode of the production symbol 36 displayed by the variation production pattern are determined. In addition, “reach” in the present embodiment refers to a state in which a part of the combination of the effect symbols 36 informing that the transition to the special game is stopped and the other effect symbols 36 are performing the variable display. . For example, when the combination of the three-digit effect symbol 36 of “777” is set as the combination of the effect symbols 36 for informing that the game will shift to the jackpot game, the two effect symbols 36 are stopped and displayed at “7”. The state where the remaining effect symbols 36 are performing variable display.

When the sub CPU 120a determines the variation effect pattern, the sub CPU 120a transmits an “effect pattern designation command” corresponding to the determined variation effect pattern to the image control board 150.
Here, the effect pattern designation command transmitted to the image control board 150 is composed of 1-byte data, and 1-byte MODE data for identifying the control command classification and the control command to be executed. It consists of 1-byte DATA data indicating the contents. Further, as the effect pattern designation command corresponding to the change effect pattern, “MODE” is set to “A1H” in the case of the change effect pattern based on the change pattern of the special symbol in the first special symbol display device 20, and the second special When the variation effect pattern is based on the variation pattern of the special symbol in the symbol display device 21, “MODE” is set as “B1H”, and “DATA” is set according to the identification number of the variation effect pattern.

  Although illustration is omitted, in addition to the effect pattern specifying command corresponding to the variable effect pattern, the MODE setting value is changed, and “effect pattern specifying command corresponding to the demo effect pattern (MODE = 01H)”, "Effect pattern designation command corresponding to hit start effect pattern (MODE = 0H)", "Effect pattern designation command corresponding to jackpot effect pattern (MODE = 03H)", "Effect pattern designation command corresponding to hit end effect pattern ( Various effect pattern designation commands such as “MODE = 04H)” are transmitted to the image control board 150.

(Pending display mode determination table)
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a hold display mode determination table for determining a general map hold image 38 for informing in advance the lottery result of “normal symbol lottery” in the liquid crystal display device 31 or the like. It should be noted that the universal figure hold image 38 is also used to display the number of holds stored in the normal symbol hold number (G) storage area, as will be described later.

The sub CPU 120 a determines the general map hold display data for displaying the general map hold image 38 based on the special symbol advance notice designation command and the production random number 2 received from the main control board 110.
Then, when the sub-CPU 120a determines the general map hold display data, the sub CPU 120a transmits a “hold pattern designation command” corresponding to the determined general map hold display data to the image control board 150.

  Here, the hold pattern designation command transmitted to the image control board 150 has MODE set to “F0H”. Further, when the general map hold display data 0 for displaying the general map hold image 38a (normal hold display) that does not notify the lottery result of “normal symbol lottery” in advance is determined, DATA is set to “00H”. When the general map hold display data 1 for displaying the general map hold image 38c (notice hold display 1) for notifying that there is a high possibility of being determined to be a win by the “normal symbol lottery” is determined. When the general figure hold display data 2 for displaying the general figure hold image 38b (notice hold display 2) that is set to “01H” and notifies that it is determined to be a win by the “normal symbol lottery” is determined. DATA is set to “02H”.

  The image control board 150 can notify the lottery result of the “normal symbol lottery” in advance by analyzing the reserved pattern designation command.

The reserved number stored in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area can be analyzed by the sub CPU 120a by the normal symbol storage designation command (see FIG. 19) received from the main control board 110. ing. The sub CPU 120a analyzes the reserved number stored in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area by the normal symbol storage designation command received from the main control board 110, and sends it to the image control board 150 based on the analyzed reserved number. Generate a “pending number designation command” to be sent. Then, the generated reserved number designation command is transmitted to the image control board 150.
The image control board 150 draws the general-purpose reserved image 38 based on the reserved number designation command and the reserved pattern designation command, so that the reserved number stored in the normal symbol reserved number (G) storage area The determination result in advance of the “normal symbol lottery” can be displayed together with the regular figure holding image 38.

(Description of gaming state)
Next, the gaming state when the game progresses will be described. In this embodiment, there are “low probability gaming state” and “high probability gaming state” as the states related to the jackpot lottery, and “non-short-time gaming state” is the state relating to the pair of movable pieces 15b that the second starting port 15 has. And “short-time gaming state”. The state relating to the jackpot lottery (low probability gaming state, high probability gaming state) and the state relating to the pair of movable pieces 15b (non-short-time gaming state, short-time gaming state) can be associated with each other and are independent. You can also. In other words,
(1) “Low probability gaming state” and “Time saving gaming state”
(2) “Low probability gaming state” and “non-temporary gaming state”
(3) “High probability gaming state” and “short time gaming state”
(4) It is possible to provide a “high probability gaming state” and a “non-temporary gaming state”.
Note that the gaming state when the game is started, that is, the initial gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is a “low probability gaming state” and is set to a “non-short-time gaming state”. Is referred to as a “normal gaming state”.

In the present embodiment, the “low probability gaming state” means that in the jackpot lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the first starting port 14 or the second starting port 15, the winning probability of the jackpot is 1 / The game state set to 299.5. On the other hand, the “high probability gaming state” means a gaming state in which the jackpot winning probability is set to 1 / 29.95. Therefore, in the “high probability gaming state”, it is easier to win a jackpot than in the “low probability gaming state”. Note that a high-probability game flag, which will be described later, is set in this high-probability game state, and the high-probability game flag is off in the low-probability game state.
Further, the low probability gaming state is changed to the high probability gaming state after the jackpot game described later is finished.

  In the present embodiment, the “non-short game state” means that, in the normal symbol lottery performed on the condition that the game ball has passed through the normal symbol gate 13, the variation time of the normal symbol corresponding to the lottery result is 29 seconds. And a game state in which the opening control time of the second start port 15 is set to be as short as 0.2 seconds. In other words, when the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13, the normal symbol is drawn and the normal symbol display device 22 displays the fluctuation of the normal symbol. Stop display later. If the lottery result is a win, the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for about 0.2 seconds after the normal symbol stop display.

On the other hand, the “short-time gaming state” means that the normal symbol variation time corresponding to the lottery result is 3 seconds in the normal symbol lottery performed on condition that the game ball has passed through the normal symbol gate 13. , A game that is set shorter than the “non-short game state”, and the opening control time of the second start port 15 when winning in the win is 3.5 seconds, which is set longer than the “non-short game state” State. Further, in the “non-short-time gaming state”, the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery is set to 1/10, and in the “short-time gaming state”, the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery is set to 9/10. Is set. At this time, the short-time game flag, which will be described later, is set in the short-time game state, and the short-time game flag is off in the non-short-time game state.
Therefore, in the “short-time gaming state”, the second starting port 15 is more easily controlled to the second mode as long as the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 13 than in the “non-short-time gaming state”. Thereby, in the “short-time gaming state”, the player can advance the game without consuming the game ball.
In addition, since the normal symbol gate 13 is provided in the area on the right side of the game area 6, when in the “short-time game state”, the operation handle 3 is greatly rotated, and the game ball is launched with a strong launch strength. Configured to do.
Note that the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery may be set so that it does not change in any of the “non-short-time gaming state” and the “time-short gaming state”.

(Description of jackpot type)
In the present embodiment, there are two types of “big hits”: “long win” that opens the first big winning opening 16 with a long opening time and “short hit” that opens the second big winning opening 17 with a short opening time. One kind of “small hit” is provided. In the present embodiment, the “big hit” and the “small win” are collectively referred to as “special game”.

In the present embodiment, “long win” means that a big win is won in a lottery lottery performed on condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 and corresponds to a long hit. A game executed when a special symbol is determined.
In “long winning”, the round game in which the first grand prize winning opening 16 is opened is performed 15 times in total. The maximum opening time of the first grand prize opening 16 in each round game is set to a maximum of 29.5 seconds, and if a prescribed number (9) of game balls enter the first big prize opening 16 during this period, Rounds of games are over. In other words, “long win” is a special game that allows a player to acquire a large number of prize balls because a game ball enters the first grand prize opening 16 and a player can acquire a prize ball corresponding to the winning ball. is there. In addition, since the first grand prize winning opening 16 is provided in the area on the right side of the game area 6, when it is “long hit”, the operation handle 3 is greatly rotated to launch the game ball with a strong launch intensity. Are configured to play games.

In this embodiment, “short win” means winning a big hit in the big win lottery performed on condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 and corresponding to the short win A game executed when a special symbol is determined.
In the “short win”, a round game in which the second grand prize winning opening 17 is opened is performed a total of 15 times. The maximum opening time of the second grand prize opening 17 in each round game is set to a maximum of 0.052 seconds, which is shorter than the firing time (about 0.6 seconds) at which one game ball is launched. Yes. During this time, if a specified number (9) of game balls enter the second grand prize opening 17, one round game is completed, but the opening time of the second big prize opening 17 is extremely short as described above. , Game balls rarely enter. That is, “short win” is a special game in which it is difficult to obtain a prize ball unlike “long win”.

In the present embodiment, “small hit” means that the right to play a small hit game is obtained in the big win lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the first start port 14 or the second start port 15 A game that is executed in the event of a game.
In the “small win”, the second big prize winning opening 17 is opened 15 times as in the “short win”. At this time, the opening time, opening / closing timing, and opening / closing mode of the second grand prize winning port 17 are the same as the above “short win”, or the player cannot distinguish between “small win” and “short win” or difficult. It is set to approximate to some extent.

  Next, the progress of the game in the gaming machine 1 will be described using a flowchart.

(Main processing of main control board)
The main process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, a system reset occurs in the main CPU 110a, and the main CPU 110a performs the following main processing.

  First, in step S10, the main CPU 110a performs an initialization process. In this process, the main CPU 110a reads a startup program from the main ROM 110b and initializes a flag stored in the main RAM 110c in response to power-on.

  In step S20, the main CPU 110a performs an effect random number update process for updating the reach determination random value and the special figure variation random value for determining the variation mode (variation time) of the special symbol.

  In step S30, the main CPU 110a updates the initial random number value for special symbol determination, the initial random number value for big hit symbol, the initial random number value for small bonus symbol, and the initial random number value for normal symbol determination. Thereafter, the processes of step S20 and step S30 are repeated until a predetermined interrupt process is performed.

(Timer interrupt processing of main control board)
The timer interrupt process of the main control board 110 will be described with reference to FIG.

  A clock pulse is generated every predetermined period (4 milliseconds) by the reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the main control board 110, thereby executing a timer interrupt process described below.

  First, in step S100, the main CPU 110a saves the information stored in the register of the main CPU 110a to the stack area.

  In step S110, the main CPU 110a updates the special symbol time counter, updates the special game timer counter such as the opening time of the special electric accessory, updates the normal symbol time counter, and updates the normal power release time counter. A time control process for updating various timer counters is performed. Specifically, a process of subtracting 1 from a special symbol time counter, a special game timer counter, a normal symbol time counter, and a general electricity open time counter is performed.

In step S120, the main CPU 110a performs a random number update process for the special symbol determination random number value, the big hit symbol random number value, the small hit symbol random number value, and the normal symbol determination random number value.
Specifically, each random number value and random number counter are updated by adding +1. When the added random number counter exceeds the maximum value in the random number range (when the random number counter makes one revolution), the random number counter is returned to 0, and each random number value is newly updated from the initial random number value at that time. .

  In step S130, as in step S30, the main CPU 110a updates the initial random number value for special symbol determination, the initial random number value for big hit symbol, the initial random number value for small hit symbol, and the initial random number value for normal symbol determination. Perform numerical value update processing.

In step S200, the main CPU 110a performs input control processing.
In this process, the main CPU 110a includes a general winning opening detection switch 12a, a first large winning opening detection switch 16a, a second large winning opening detection switch 17a, a first starting opening detection switch 14a, a second starting opening detection switch 15a, a gate. It is determined whether or not there is an input to the various switches of the detection switch 13a. If there is an input, input control processing for setting predetermined data is performed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S300, the main CPU 110a performs a special drawing special electric control process for controlling the jackpot lottery, the special electric accessory, and the gaming state. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

In step S400, the main CPU 110a performs a normal / normal power control process for controlling the normal symbol lottery and the normal electric accessory.
Specifically, it is first determined whether or not one or more data is set in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area, and one or more data must be set in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area. If this is the case, the current ordinary power transmission control process is terminated.
If 1 or more data is set in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, after subtracting 1 from the value stored in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, the data is in the normal symbol holding storage area. The normal symbol determination random numbers stored in the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit are shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, the normal symbol determination random value already written in the 0th storage unit is overwritten and erased.
Then, referring to the hit determination table shown in FIG. 7B, whether or not the normal symbol determination random number value stored in the 0th storage unit of the normal symbol hold storage area is a random value corresponding to “win”. Processing to determine is performed. Thereafter, the normal symbol display device 22 displays the fluctuation of the normal symbol. When the fluctuation time of the normal symbol elapses, the normal symbol corresponding to the result of the normal symbol lottery is stopped and displayed. If the random number for normal symbol determination referred to is “winning”, the start opening / closing solenoid 15c is driven to control the second start opening 15 to the second mode for a predetermined opening time.
Here, in the non-short-time gaming state, the variation time of the normal symbol is set to 29 seconds, and if it is “winning”, the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for 0.2 seconds. On the other hand, in the short-time gaming state, the normal symbol variation time is set to 0.2 seconds, and if it is “winning”, the second start port 15 is controlled to the second mode for 3.5 seconds. .

In step S500, the main CPU 110a performs a payout control process.
In this payout control process, the main CPU 110a refers to each prize ball counter, generates payout number designation commands corresponding to various winning ports, and transmits the generated payout number designation commands to the payout control board 130. To do.

  In step S600, the main CPU 110a, external information data, start opening / closing solenoid data, first big prize opening opening / closing solenoid data, second big prize opening opening / closing solenoid data, special symbol display device data, normal symbol display device data, the number of memories Performs data creation for the specified command.

In step S700, the main CPU 110a performs output control processing. In this process, a port output process is performed for outputting signals of the external information data, the start opening / closing solenoid data, the first big prize opening / closing solenoid data, and the second big prize opening / closing solenoid data created in S600.
Further, the special symbol display device data and the normal symbol display device data created in S600 are used to turn on the LEDs of the first special symbol display device 20, the second special symbol display device 21 and the normal symbol display device 22. Display device output processing is performed.
Further, command transmission processing for transmitting the command set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c to the effect control board 120 is also performed. The type of command transmitted to the effect control board 120 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S800, the main CPU 110a restores the information saved in step S100 to the register of the main CPU 110a.

(Input control processing of main control board)
The input control process of the main control board 110 will be described using FIG.

In step S210, the main CPU 110a performs a general winning opening detection switch input process.
In this general winning opening detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the general winning opening detection switch 12a. If there is no input of a detection signal from the general winning opening detection switch 12a, the process proceeds to the next step.
When a detection signal is input from the general winning opening detection switch 12a, predetermined data is added to and updated in the winning ball counter for the general winning opening, and then the process proceeds to the next step.

In step S220, the main CPU 110a performs a special winning opening detection switch input process.
In this special winning opening detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the first large winning opening detection switch 16a or the second large winning opening detection switch 17a. If no detection signal is input from the first big prize opening detection switch 16a or the second big prize opening detection switch 17a, the process proceeds to the next step.
When a detection signal is input from the first big prize opening detection switch 16a or the second big prize opening detection switch 17a, predetermined data is added to the prize winning ball counter for the big prize opening and updated. After updating by adding 1 to the large winning opening number of balls (C) storage area for counting the game balls won in the large winning opening 16 or the second large winning opening 17, the process proceeds to the next step.

In step S230, the main CPU 110a performs a first start port detection switch input process.
In the first start port detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the first start port detection switch 14a. If no detection signal is input from the first start port detection switch 14a, the process proceeds to the next step.
When a detection signal is input from the first start port detection switch 14a, first, predetermined data is added to the prize ball counter for the first start port. If the data set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area is less than 4, add 1 to the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area, the special symbol determination random number value, Random value for jackpot symbol, random value for jackpot symbol, random number for reach determination, and random number for special figure fluctuation, and a predetermined storage unit in the first special symbol random value storage area After storing in (the 0th storage part-the 4th storage part), processing is moved to the next step.

In step S240, the main CPU 110a performs a second start port detection switch input process.
In the second start port detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the second start port detection switch 15a. If there is no detection signal input from the second start port detection switch 15a, the process proceeds to the next step.
When a detection signal is input from the second start port detection switch 15a, first, predetermined data is added to the prize ball counter for the second start port. If the data set in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area is less than 4, add 1 to the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, and a special symbol determination random number value, Random value for jackpot symbol, random value for jackpot symbol, random number for reach determination and random number for special figure variation are acquired, and the various random values obtained are stored in a second special symbol random number storage area. After storing in (the 0th storage part-the 4th storage part), processing is moved to the next step.

In step S250, the main CPU 110a performs gate detection switch input processing.
In this gate detection switch input process, it is determined whether or not a detection signal is input from the gate detection switch 13a. If no detection signal is input from the gate detection switch 13a, the process proceeds to the next step.
When a detection signal is input from the gate detection switch 13a, a gate passage designation command is generated, and the generated gate passage designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Next, if the data set in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area is less than 4, add 1 to the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area to obtain a normal symbol determination random number value. Then, after storing the acquired random number for normal symbol determination in a predetermined storage unit (the 0th storage unit to the fourth storage unit) in the normal symbol holding storage area, the processing is moved to the next step.

In step S260, the main CPU 110a performs a preliminary determination process.
In this pre-determination process, first, it is determined whether or not the big hit game is being performed and the game is in a non-time-saving game state. That is, it is determined whether or not the special figure special electric processing data = 3 which will be described later is set, and whether or not the short time game flag is set in the short time game flag storage area. If it is a big hit game or a short-time game state, the current input control process is terminated.
On the other hand, if the big hit game is not being performed and the game is in the non-time-short game state, the normal symbol determination disorder acquired in step S250 is referred to with reference to the prior determination table of the normal symbol display device shown in FIG. It is determined whether or not the numerical value corresponds to “win”.
If the random symbol value for normal symbol determination corresponds to “winning”, a prior notice designation command (F0H01H) indicating a win is generated, and the generated prior notice designation command (F0H01H) is stored in the transmission data for production. Set in the area, and the current input control process is terminated. Also, if the random symbol value for normal symbol determination corresponds to “losing”, the advance notice designation command (F0H00H) indicating the loss is generated, and the generated advance notice designation command (F0H00H) is stored in the transmission data for production. Set in the area, and the current input control process is terminated.

(Special figure special electric control processing of main control board)
With reference to FIG. 17, the special figure special power control process of the main control board 110 will be described.

First, in step S301, the value of the special figure special processing data is loaded, and step S301
The branch address is referred to from the special figure special processing data loaded in 302, and if the special figure special processing data = 0, the processing moves to the special symbol storage determination processing (step S310).
If the special figure special electric processing data = 1, the process moves to the special symbol variation process (step S320), and if the special figure special electric treatment data = 2, the process moves to the special symbol stop process (step S330). If data = 3, the process moves to the jackpot game process (step S340), and if the special figure special power process data = 4, the jackpot game end process (step S3).
50), and if special figure special electric processing data = 5, the processing is transferred to the small hit game end processing (step S360).
This “special drawing special electricity processing data” is set as necessary in each subroutine of the special figure special electricity control processing as will be described later, so that the subroutine necessary for the game is appropriately processed. .

  In the special symbol memory determination process in step S310, the main CPU 110a performs a process of determining a jackpot and determining a special symbol to be stopped and displayed. Here, the specific content of the special symbol memory determination process will be described with reference to FIG.

(Special symbol memory judgment processing of the main control board)
FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a special symbol memory determination process of the main control board 110.

First, in step S311, the main CPU 110a determines whether one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area.
If one or more data is not set in any storage area of the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, the special figure special electricity processing data = 0. The special symbol variation process of this time is terminated while holding.
On the other hand, if one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, the process proceeds to step S312.

In step S312, the main CPU 110a performs a jackpot determination process.
Specifically, when one or more data is set in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area, 1 is calculated from the value stored in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area. After the subtraction, the various random numbers stored in the first to fourth storage units in the second special symbol random number storage area are shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, various random values already written in the 0th storage unit are overwritten and deleted. Then, with reference to the jackpot determination table shown in FIG. 7 (a-2), the random number for special symbol determination stored in the 0th storage unit of the second special symbol random number storage area corresponds to “big hit”. It is determined whether it is a numerical value or a random value corresponding to “small hit”.
In addition, when one or more data is not set in the second special symbol hold number (U2) storage area and one or more data is set in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area, Various random numbers stored in the first to fourth storage units in the first special symbol random number storage area after subtracting 1 from the value stored in the first special symbol hold number (U1) storage area Is shifted to the previous storage unit. Also at this time, various random numbers already written in the 0th storage unit are overwritten and deleted. Then, with reference to the jackpot determination table shown in FIG. 7 (a-1), the random number value for special symbol determination stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random number storage area corresponds to “big hit”. It is determined whether it is a numerical value or a random value corresponding to “small hit”.

In step S313, the main CPU 110a performs a special symbol determination process for determining the type of special symbol to be stopped and displayed.
In this special symbol determination process, when it is determined as “big hit” in the jackpot determination process (step S312), the first special symbol random value storage area is referred to with reference to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. The jackpot symbol (special symbol 1 to special symbol 6) is determined based on the random number value for the jackpot symbol stored in the 0th storage unit. In addition, when it is determined as “small hit” in the big hit determination process (step S312), the 0th memory of the first special symbol random value storage area is referred to with reference to the symbol determination table shown in FIG. 8B. The small hit symbol (special symbol A, special symbol B) is determined based on the random number value for the small bonus symbol stored in the section. If it is determined that the game has been determined to be “lost” in the jackpot determination process (step S312), the lost symbol (special symbol 0) is determined with reference to the symbol determination table shown in FIG.
Then, stop symbol data corresponding to the determined special symbol is stored in the stop symbol data storage area.

In step S314, the main CPU 110a performs special symbol variation time determination processing.
Specifically, referring to the variation pattern determination table shown in FIG. 10, based on the reach determination random number value and the special diagram variation random value stored in the 0th storage unit of the first special symbol random value storage area. Determine the variation pattern of the special symbol. Thereafter, the variation time of the special symbol corresponding to the determined variation pattern of the special symbol is determined. Then, a process of setting a counter corresponding to the determined variation time of the special symbol in the special symbol time counter is performed.

In step S315, the main CPU 110a sets, in a predetermined processing area, variation display data for causing the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 to perform special symbol variation display (LED blinking). . As a result, when the variable display data is set in the predetermined processing area, the LED lighting / extinguishing data is appropriately created in step S600, and the created data is output in step S700. Variation display of the special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 is performed.
Further, the main CPU 110a, when the special symbol variation display is started, the special symbol variation pattern designation command (the first special symbol variation pattern designation command) corresponding to the variation pattern of the special symbol determined in step S314. Alternatively, the second special symbol variation pattern designation command) is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c.

In step S316, the main CPU 110a sets the special symbol special electricity processing data = 0 to the special symbol special electric treatment data = 1, prepares to move to the special symbol variation processing subroutine, and ends the special symbol memory determination processing.
In the present embodiment, the main CPU 110a that performs jackpot determination processing constitutes special game determination means.

Again, the description of the special figure special electric control process shown in FIG. 17 will be returned.
In the special symbol variation process of step S320, the main CPU 110a performs a process of determining whether or not the special symbol variation time has elapsed.
Specifically, it is determined whether or not the variation time of the special symbol determined in step S314 has elapsed (special symbol time counter = 0), and if it is determined that the variation time has not elapsed, The special symbol variation process of this time is terminated while maintaining the special electric processing data = 1. Note that the special symbol variation time counter set in step S314 is subtracted in step S110.
If it is determined that the fluctuation time has elapsed, the special symbol determined in step S313 is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21. Thereby, the special symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21, and the player is notified of the jackpot determination result.
Also, when the number of time reduction (J)> 0, 1 is subtracted from the time reduction (J) counter and updated. When the number of time reduction (J) = 0, the time reduction game flag is cleared and the number of high probability games (X )> 0 is updated by subtracting 1 from the high probability game number (X) counter, and if the high probability game number (X) = 0, the high probability game flag is cleared.
Finally, the special symbol special power processing data = 1 is set to the special symbol special power processing data = 2, preparation is made to move to a special symbol stop processing subroutine, and the special symbol variation processing is terminated.

In the special symbol stop process in step S330, the main CPU 110a performs a process of determining whether the special symbol that is stopped and displayed is a “big hit symbol”, a “small bonus symbol”, or a “losing symbol”. Do.
If it is determined that the game is a jackpot symbol, the data stored in the gaming state storage area is referred to and data (00H to 03H) indicating the current gaming state is set in the gaming state buffer. Thereafter, the data (high probability game flag and short time game flag), high probability game number (X) counter, and short time number (J) counter stored in the high probability game flag storage area and the short time game flag storage area are cleared. . Further, the special figure special power processing data = 2 is set to the special figure special electric processing data = 3, preparation is made to move to the jackpot game processing subroutine, and the special symbol stop processing is ended.
In addition, when it is determined that the small winning symbol, the data stored in the game state storage area is not cleared, and the special figure special electric processing data = 2 to the special figure special electric treatment data = 5 is set. The special symbol stop process is completed by making preparations for transferring to a winning game process subroutine.
On the other hand, if it is determined that the symbol is a lost symbol, the special symbol special electric processing data = 2 is set to special special electric symbol processing data = 0, and the special symbol memory determination processing subroutine is prepared for the special symbol stop processing. finish.

In the jackpot game process of step S340, the main CPU 110a determines which jackpot of the long hit or short hit is executed, and performs a process of controlling the determined jackpot.
Specifically, based on the type of jackpot symbol (stop symbol data) determined in step S313, the jackpot release mode is determined (the long hit release mode determination table or the short hit release mode determination table is determined). To do).
Next, in order to execute the determined jackpot opening mode, an opening time corresponding to the type of jackpot is set in the special game timer counter, and the first big winning opening opening / closing solenoid 16c (or the second big winning opening opening / closing solenoid) is set. 17c) is output to open the first big prize opening / closing door 16b (or the second big prize opening / closing door 17b). At this time, 1 is added to the round game count (R) storage area.
When a predetermined number of game balls enter during the opening or when the opening time of the big prize opening has elapsed (the number of the big prize opening (C) = 9 or the special game timer counter = 0), The output of the drive data of the big prize opening / closing solenoid 16c (or the second big prize opening / closing solenoid 17c) is stopped, and the first big prize opening / closing door 16b (or the second big prize opening / closing door 17b) is closed. Thereby, one round game is completed. This round game control is repeated 15 times.
When the 15 round games are completed (round game count (R) = 15), the data stored in the round game count (R) storage area and the number of winning prize entrance (C) storage areas are cleared, The special figure special electric processing data = 3 is set to the special figure special electric treatment data = 4, preparation is made to move to the big hit game end processing subroutine, and the big hit game processing is ended.
In the present embodiment, the main CPU 110a that performs the jackpot game process shown in step S340 constitutes a special game control means.

In the big hit game ending process in step S350, the main CPU 110a determines either the high probability game state or the low probability game state, and the game state of either the short-time game state or the non-short-time game state. Perform the decision process.
Specifically, referring to the jackpot end setting data table shown in FIG. 9, based on the data stored in the gaming state buffer and the type of jackpot symbol (stop symbol data) determined in step S313, A high-probability game flag is set, a high-probability game number (X) is set, a short-time game flag is set, and a short-time number (J) is set. For example, in the case of the special symbol 1, the high probability game flag is set in the high probability game flag storage area, and the high probability game number (X) counter is set to 10,000 times. Further, a time-short game flag is set in the time-short game flag storage area, and a time-short time (J) counter is set to 10,000 times.
After that, the special symbol special power processing data = 4 is set to the special symbol special power processing data = 0, and preparation for moving to the special symbol memory determination processing subroutine is made, and the big hit game end processing is ended.
In the present embodiment, the main CPU 110a that determines the gaming state of either the short-time gaming state or the non-short-time gaming state constitutes a non-specific gaming state transition determination unit and a specific gaming state transition determination unit.

In the small hit game processing in step S360, the main CPU 110a determines the small hit release mode based on the type of small hit symbol (stop symbol data) determined in step S313.
Next, in order to execute the determined small hit opening mode, the small hit opening time is set in the special game timer counter, and the driving data of the second big winning opening / closing solenoid 17c is output to output the second big winning prize. The mouth opening / closing door 17b is opened. At this time, 1 is added to the number-of-releases (K) storage area.
When the small winning opening time elapses (special game timer counter = 0), the drive data output of the second big prize opening / closing solenoid 17c is stopped and the second big prize opening / closing door 17b is closed. The opening / closing control of the second big prize opening opening / closing door 17b is repeated 15 times.
Then, the opening / closing control of the second grand prize opening / closing door 17b is performed 15 times, or a predetermined number of game balls enter the second big prize opening 17 (the number of times of opening (K) = 15 or the grand prize opening entrance) Number (C) = 9), in order to end the small hit game, the output of the drive data of the second large winning opening / closing solenoid 17c is stopped, the number of times of opening (K) storage area and the number of winning winning holes (C) Clear the data stored in the storage area, set special figure special electricity processing data = 5 to special figure special electricity treatment data = 0, and prepare to move to a special symbol memory judgment processing subroutine. The winning game process is terminated.

(Command explanation)
The types of commands transmitted from the main control board 110, which are not described in the flowchart of the main control board 110, to the effect control board 120 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The command transmitted from the main control board 110 to the production control board 120 is composed of 1-byte data, and 1-byte MODE information for identifying the control command classification and the control command to be executed. And 1-byte DATA information indicating the contents of.

The “designation designating command” indicates the type of the special symbol that is stopped and displayed, “MODE” is set as “E0H”, and DATA information is set according to the type of the special symbol. Since the special symbol type determines the jackpot type and the high probability gaming state as a result, it can be said that the effect symbol designation command indicates the jackpot type and the gaming state.
In the effect symbol designation command, when various special symbols are determined and the variation display of the special symbol is started, an effect symbol designation command corresponding to the determined special symbol is transmitted to the effect control board 120. Specifically, when various special symbols are determined in step S313, and the special symbol variation display is started in step S315, the effect symbol designation command corresponding to the determined special symbol is the effect of the main RAM 110c. Set in the transmission data storage area. Thereafter, the effect designating command set in the effect transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the effect control board 120.

The “first special symbol memory designation command” indicates the number of reserved memories stored in the first special symbol reservation number (U1) storage area, “MODE” is set to “E1H”, and the number of reserved memories DATA information is set according to the above.
This first special symbol memory designation command is effect-controlled by the first special symbol memory designation command corresponding to the number of reserved memories when the number of reserved memories stored in the first special symbol reservation number (U1) storage area is switched. It is transmitted to the substrate 120. Specifically, when the value stored in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area in S230 or S312 increases or decreases, the first special symbol storage designation corresponding to the increased or decreased hold memory count The command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the first special symbol memory designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.

The “second special symbol memory designation command” indicates the number of reserved memories stored in the second special symbol reservation number (U2) storage area, “MODE” is set to “E2H”, and the number of reserved memories DATA information is set according to the above.
This second special symbol memory designation command is directed by the second special symbol memory designation command corresponding to the number of reserved memories when the number of reserved memories stored in the second special symbol reservation number (U2) storage area is switched. It is transmitted to the substrate 120. Specifically, when the value stored in the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area in S240 or step S312 increases or decreases, the second special symbol storage designation corresponding to the increased or decreased hold memory count The command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the second special symbol memory designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.
In the present embodiment, the “first special symbol memory designation command” and the “second special symbol memory designation command” are collectively referred to as “special symbol memory designation command”.

The “design determination command” indicates that the special symbol is stopped and displayed, “MODE” is set to “E3H”, and “DATA” is set to “00H”.
This symbol confirmation command is transmitted to the effect control board 120 when the special symbol is stopped and displayed. Specifically, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 in step S320, the symbol confirmation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. The Thereafter, the symbol confirmation command set in the effect transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the effect control board 120.

The “power-on designation command” indicates that the gaming machine 1 is powered on, “MODE” is set to “E4H”, and “DATA” is set to “00H”.
This power-on specification command is transmitted to the effect control board 120 when the gaming machine 1 is powered on. Specifically, when the gaming machine is turned on in step S10, a power-on designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Then, immediately after the power-on designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is transmitted to the production control board 120.

The “RAM clear designation command” indicates that the information stored in the main RAM 110c has been cleared, “MODE” is set to “E4H”, and “DATA” is set to “01H”.
Here, a RAM clear button (not shown) is provided on the back side of the gaming machine 1, and when the gaming machine 1 is turned on while pressing the RAM clear button, the information stored in the main RAM 110c in step S10 is stored. Cleared.
The RAM clear designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 120 when the gaming machine 1 is turned on while pressing the RAM clear button. Specifically, when the gaming machine is turned on while pressing the RAM clear button in step S10, a RAM clear designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the RAM clear designation command set in the effect transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the effect control board 120.

The “demonstration designation command” indicates that the first special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 is not operating, “MODE” is set to “E5H”, and “DATA” is set to “ 00H ".
This demonstration designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 120 when the special symbol display device 20 or the second special symbol display device 21 does not hold the special symbol. Specifically, when one or more pieces of data are not set in either the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area or the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area in step S311. The demonstration designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the demonstration designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.

The “first special symbol variation pattern designation command” indicates the variation time (variation mode) of the special symbol in the first special symbol display device 20, “MODE” is set to “E6H”, and various variations DATA information is set according to the pattern.
The first special symbol variation pattern designation command is a first special symbol variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern of the special symbol determined when the special symbol variation display of the first special symbol display device 20 is started. A designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 120. Specifically, when the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined in step S314 and the variation display of the special symbol is started in step S315, the first special symbol corresponding to the determined variation pattern of the special symbol is started. The variation pattern designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the first special symbol variation pattern designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.

The “variable pattern designation command for the second special symbol” indicates the variation time (variation mode) of the special symbol in the second special symbol display device 21, and “MODE” is set to “E7H”, and various variations DATA information is set according to the pattern.
The second special symbol variation pattern designation command is a second special symbol variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern of the special symbol determined when the special symbol variation display of the second special symbol display device 21 is started. A designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 120.
Specifically, when the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined in step S314 and when the variation display of the special symbol is started in step S315, the second special symbol corresponding to the determined variation pattern of the special symbol is started. The variation pattern designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the second special symbol variation pattern designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.
In the present embodiment, the “first special symbol variation pattern designation command” and the “second special symbol variation pattern designation command” are collectively referred to as a “variation pattern designation command”.

The “Big Winner Opening Specification Command” indicates the number of jackpot rounds according to the various jackpot types, “MODE” is set as “EAH”, and DATA information is set according to the number of jackpot rounds Has been.
With regard to the special winning opening opening designation command, when the big hit round is started, the big winning opening opening designation command corresponding to the started round number is transmitted to the effect control board 120. Specifically, when the first grand prize opening opening / closing door 16b (or the second big prize opening opening / closing door 17b) is opened in step S340, the big winning opening opening designation command corresponding to the number of rounds to be opened is issued. It is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, in step S700, the prize winning opening release command set in the effect transmission data storage area is immediately transmitted to the effect control board 120.

The “opening designation command” indicates that various jackpots start, “MODE” is set as “EBH”, and DATA information is set according to the jackpot type.
As for the opening designation command, when various jackpots start, an opening designation command corresponding to the type of jackpot is transmitted to the effect control board 120. Specifically, at the start of the jackpot game processing in step S340, an opening designation command corresponding to the jackpot type is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. After that, the opening designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.

The “ending designation command” indicates that various jackpots have ended, “MODE” is set as “ECH”, and DATA information is set according to the jackpot type.
As for the ending designation command, when various jackpots are completed, the ending designation command corresponding to the type of jackpot is transmitted to the effect control board 120. Specifically, at the start of the jackpot game end process in step S350, an ending designation command corresponding to the jackpot type is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the ending designation command set in the effect transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the effect control board 120.

The “gaming state designation command” indicates whether it is a short-time gaming state or a non-short-time gaming state, and “MODE” is set to “EEH”. “00H” is set, and “DATA” is set to “01H” in the time saving gaming state.
As for the gaming state designation command, a gaming state designation command corresponding to the gaming state is transmitted to the effect control board 120 at the start of special symbol variation, at the end of special symbol variation, at the start of jackpot game, and at the end of jackpot. . Specifically, when the special symbol variation display is started in step S315, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in step S320, the high probability game flag, the high probability game count, the short-time game flag, and the step S320 are displayed. When the number of times reduced (J) is cleared, the gaming state corresponding to the current gaming state when the high probability gaming flag, the number of times of high probability gaming, the hourly gaming flag, and the hourly number of times (J) are set in step S350. The designation command is set in the transmission data storage area for presentation in the main RAM 110c. Thereafter, the gaming state designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.

The “preliminary notice designation command” is used to analyze the determination result determined by the “normal symbol lottery” in advance, “MODE” is set to “F0H”, and DATA is set to “00H” when it is lost. If it is set and hit, DATA is set to “01H”.
As for the advance notice designation command, when a game ball passes through the ordinary symbol gate 13, the advance notice designation command corresponding to the acquired random number value for ordinary symbol determination is transmitted to the effect control board 120. Specifically, when the normal symbol determination random number value is acquired in step S260, a prior notice designation command corresponding to the acquired normal symbol determination random value is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 110c. . Thereafter, the advance notice designation command set in the transmission data storage area for production in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.
However, the advance notice designation command is generated only when the big hit game is not being performed and the game is in the non-short game state.

The “ordinary symbol storage designation command” indicates the number of reserved memories stored in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area, “MODE” is set to “F1H”, and DATA is set in accordance with the hold stored count. Information is set.
The normal symbol memory designation command is transmitted to the effect control board 120 when the reserved symbol number stored in the normal symbol reserve number (G) storage area is switched. . Specifically, when the value stored in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area in step S250 or step S400 increases or decreases, the normal symbol storage designation command corresponding to the post-increase / decrease hold count is the main. It is set in the effect transmission data storage area of the RAM 110c. Thereafter, the normal symbol storage designation command set in the production transmission data storage area in step S700 is immediately transmitted to the production control board 120.

  Next, processing executed by the sub CPU 120a in the effect control board 120 will be described.

(Production control board main processing)
The main process of the effect control board 120 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S1000, the sub CPU 120a performs an initialization process. In this process, the sub CPU 120a reads the main processing program from the sub ROM 120b and initializes and sets a flag stored in the sub RAM 120c in response to power-on. If this process ends, the process moves to a step S1400.

  In step S1100, the sub CPU 120a performs an effect random number update process. In this process, the sub CPU 120a performs a process of updating random numbers (effect random number value 1, effect random number value 2, effect design determining random value, effect mode determining random value, etc.) stored in the sub RAM 120c. Thereafter, the process of step S1100 is repeated until a predetermined interrupt process is performed.

(Timer interrupt processing of production control board)
The timer interrupt process of the effect control board 120 will be described with reference to FIG.
Although not shown in the figure, a clock pulse is generated every predetermined period (2 milliseconds) by a reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the effect control board 120, a timer interrupt processing program is read, and the timer of the effect control board is read. Interrupt processing is executed.

  First, in step S1400, the sub CPU 120a saves the information stored in the register of the sub CPU 120a to the stack area.

  In step S1500, the sub CPU 120a performs update processing of various timer counters used in the effect control board 120.

  In step S1600, the sub CPU 120a performs command analysis processing. In this process, the sub CPU 120a performs a process of analyzing a command stored in the reception buffer of the sub RAM 120c. A specific description of the command analysis processing will be described later with reference to FIGS. When the effect control board 120 receives a command transmitted from the main control board 110, a command reception interrupt process of the effect control board 120 (not shown) occurs, and the received command is stored in the reception buffer. Thereafter, the received command is analyzed in step S1600.

  In step S1700, the sub CPU 120a checks the signal of the effect button detection switch 35a, and performs effect input control processing related to the effect button 35.

  In step S1800, the sub CPU 120a performs data output processing for transmitting various commands set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c to the lamp control board 140 and the image control board 150.

  In step S1900, the sub CPU 120a restores the information saved in step S1810 to the register of the sub CPU 120a.

(Command analysis processing of production control board)
The command analysis processing of the effect control board 120 will be described using FIG. 22 and FIG. Note that the command analysis processing 2 in FIG. 23 is performed subsequent to the command analysis processing 1 in FIG.

In step S1601, the sub CPU 120a checks whether there is a command in the reception buffer, and checks whether the command has been received.
If there is no command in the reception buffer, the sub CPU 120a ends the command analysis process, and if there is a command in the reception buffer, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1610.

In step S1610, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a demo designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a demo designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1611, and if not the demo designation command, moves the process to step S1620.

In step S1611, the sub CPU 120a performs a demo effect pattern determination process for determining a demo effect pattern.
Specifically, the demonstration effect pattern is determined, the determined demonstration effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined demonstration effect pattern is transmitted to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140. An effect pattern designation command based on the demo effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 120c.

In step S1620, sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a special symbol storage designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a special symbol storage designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1621, and if it is not a special symbol storage designation command, moves the process to step S1630.

  In step S1621, the sub CPU 120a analyzes the special symbol storage designation command to determine the display number of the special figure reservation image 37a to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31, and corresponds to the determined display number of the special figure reservation image 37a. The special symbol display number designation command is transmitted to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140, and a special symbol memory number determination process is performed.

In step S1630, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is an effect designating command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is an effect designating command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1631, and moves to step S1640 if it is not an effect designating command.

In step S1631, the sub CPU 120a performs an effect symbol determination process for determining an effect symbol 36 to be stopped and displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31 based on the content of the received effect symbol designation command.
Specifically, the effect designating command is analyzed, the effect symbol data constituting the combination of the effect symbols 36 is determined according to the presence / absence of jackpot and the type of jackpot, and the determined effect symbol data is stored in the effect symbol storage area In addition, in order to transmit the effect symbol data to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140, a stop symbol designation command indicating the effect symbol data is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c.

In step S1640, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a variation pattern designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a variation pattern designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1641 and moves the process to step S1650 if it is not the variation pattern designation command.

In step S1641, the sub CPU 120a acquires one random value from the effect random number 1 updated in step 1100, and based on the acquired effect random number 1 and the received variation pattern designation command, A variation effect pattern determination process is performed to determine one variation effect pattern from among the variation effect patterns.
Specifically, referring to the variation effect pattern determination table shown in FIG. 12, one variation effect pattern is determined based on the extracted effect random value 1, and the determined variation effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area. At the same time, in order to transmit the determined variation effect pattern information to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined variation effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c. For example, when “E6H01H” is received as the variation pattern designation command, the variation effect pattern 1 is determined if the extracted effect random number value 1 is “0 to 49”, and the extracted effect random number value is “50 to 99”. ”, The variation effect pattern 2 is determined, and the determined variation effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area. Further, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined variation effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 120c.
Thereafter, based on the effect pattern, the liquid crystal display device 31, the audio output device 32, the effect drive device 33, and the effect illumination device 34 are controlled. Note that the variation mode of the effect symbol 36 is determined based on the variation effect pattern determined here.

In step S1650, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a symbol determination command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a symbol confirmation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1651, and moves to step S1660 if the command is not the symbol confirmation command.

  In step S1651, the sub CPU 120a performs an effect symbol stop display process in which a stop designation command for stopping the effect symbol is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c in order to stop the effect symbol 36.

In step S1660, the sub CPU 120a determines whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a gaming state designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a gaming state designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1661, and moves to step S1670 if the command is not a gaming state designation command.

In step S1661, the sub CPU 120a analyzes the received gaming state designation command to determine whether it is a non-time saving gaming state or a time saving gaming state, and stores data corresponding to the determined gaming state in the sub RAM 120c. Set in the game state storage area.
Further, a short time presence / absence designation command indicating a non-short time gaming state or a short time gaming state is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 120c, and such information is transmitted to the image control board 150.

In step S1670, the sub CPU 120a checks whether the command stored in the reception buffer is an opening command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is an opening command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1671, and moves to step S1680 if the command is not the opening command.

In step S1671, the sub CPU 120a performs a hit start effect pattern determination process for determining a hit start effect pattern.
Specifically, the hit start effect pattern is determined based on the opening command, the determined hit start effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined hit start effect pattern is controlled by the image control board 150 and the lamp control. In order to transmit to the board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined hit start effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c.

In step S1680, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a special winning opening opening designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a big prize opening opening designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1681, and if it is not a big winning opening opening designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1690.

In step S1681, the sub CPU 120a performs a jackpot effect pattern determination process for determining a jackpot effect pattern.
Specifically, the jackpot effect pattern is determined based on the big prize opening opening designation command, the determined jackpot effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined jackpot effect pattern is stored in the image control board 150 and the lamp. In order to transmit to the control board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined jackpot effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub RAM 120c.

In step S1690, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is an ending command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is an ending command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1691, and if not the ending command, moves the process to step S1692.

In step S1691, the sub CPU 120a performs a hit end effect pattern determination process for determining a hit end effect pattern.
Specifically, the winning end effect pattern is determined based on the ending command, the determined winning end effect pattern is set in the effect pattern storage area, and information on the determined hit end effect pattern is controlled by the image control board 150 and the lamp control. In order to transmit to the board 140, an effect pattern designation command based on the determined hit end effect pattern is set in the transmission buffer of the sub-RAM 120c. When this process ends, the current command analysis process ends.

In step S1692, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a prior notice designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a prior notice designation command, the sub CPU 120a moves the process to step S1693, and if not the advance notice designation command, moves the process to step S1694.

  In step S1693, the sub CPU 120a refers to the hold display mode determination table shown in FIG. 13 and displays the display mode of the general map hold image to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31 based on the received advance notice designation command (general map hold display). Data). Then, a hold display mode determining process is performed for transmitting a hold pattern designation command corresponding to the determined display mode of the general map hold image (general map hold display data) to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140. When this process ends, the current command analysis process ends.

In step S1694, the sub CPU 120a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a normal symbol storage designation command.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a normal symbol storage designation command, the sub CPU 120a proceeds to step S1695, and if it is not a normal symbol storage designation command, the sub CPU 120a ends the current command analysis processing.

  In step S <b> 1695, the sub CPU 120 a analyzes the normal symbol storage designation command to determine the display number of the general map hold images 38 to be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31, and corresponds to the determined display number of the general map hold images 38. A normal symbol memory number determination process is performed to transmit a common figure display number designation command to the image control board 150 and the lamp control board 140. When this process ends, the current command analysis process ends.

  Next, processing executed by the host CPU 150a in the image control board 150 will be described.

(Main processing of image control board)
The main process of the image control board 150 will be described with reference to FIG.
When power is supplied from the power supply board 170, a system reset occurs in the host CPU 150a, and the host CPU 150a performs the following main processing.

In step S2010, the host CPU 150a performs an initialization process. In this process, the host CPU 150a reads the main processing program from the host ROM 150c, initializes various modules of the host CPU 150a, and instructs the initial setting of the VDP 2000 in response to power-on.
Here, as an instruction for initial setting of VDP2000, the host CPU 150a
(1) To instruct the display circuit 2080 to create and output a video signal, instruct the video signal to be created (set 1 to 0 bit of the display register),
(2) In order to cause the decompression circuit 2060 to decompress the image data (image data such as the production symbol 36) frequently used in the decompression storage area 153b of the VRAM 153, set predetermined initial value data in the decompression register. ,
(3) In order to cause the drawing circuit 2070 to draw initial value image data (such as “a character image indicating power-on”), an initial value display list is output.

In step S2020, the host CPU 150a performs a drawing execution start process. In this process, in order to instruct the VDP 2000 to execute drawing on the display list that has already been output, drawing start data is set in the drawing register (see FIG. 6B).
That is, at the start of power-on, execution of drawing for the initial value display list output in step S2010 is instructed, and during normal routine processing, execution of drawing for the display list output in S2050 described later is instructed. .

In step S2030, the host CPU 150a performs an effect instruction command analysis control process for analyzing the effect instruction command (command stored in the reception buffer of the host RAM 150b) transmitted from the effect control board 120.
When the image control board 150 receives a command transmitted from the effect control board 120, a command reception interrupt process of the image control board 150 (not shown) occurs, and the received command is stored in the reception buffer. Thereafter, the received command is analyzed in step S2030.

The effect instruction command analysis control process confirms whether or not an effect instruction command (for example, an effect pattern designation command as shown in FIG. 12) is stored in the reception buffer, and the effect instruction command is stored in the reception buffer. For example, predetermined data (animation pattern) is set based on the production instruction command.
In particular, when an effect pattern designation command is received, one or more animation groups to be executed are determined, and an animation pattern is determined from each animation group. Details will be described later with reference to FIGS. 25 and 27.

  In step S2040, the host CPU 150a performs an animation control process. In this process, the addresses of various animation scenes are updated based on the “scene switching counter”, “weight frame”, “frame counter” updated in step S2210, which will be described later, and the animation pattern determined in step S2030. .

In step S2050, the host CPU 150a determines the display list from the display information (sprite identification number, display position, etc.) of one frame of the animation scene at the updated address according to the priority (drawing order) of the animation group to which the animation scene belongs. Are generated (see FIG. 28). When the generation of the display list is completed, the host CPU 150a outputs the display list to the VDP 2000. The display list output here will be described later with reference to FIG.
The display list output here is stored in the display list storage area 153a of the VRAM 153 via the CPU I / F 2030 in the VDP 2000.

In step S2060, the host CPU 150a determines whether or not the FB switching flag = 01.
Here, as will be described later with reference to FIG. 26B, the FB switching flag is set to FB if the previous display list has been drawn in the V blank interrupt every 1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms). Switching flag = 01. That is, in step S2060, it is determined whether or not the previous drawing has been completed.
If the FB switching flag = 01, the host CPU 150a shifts the process to step S2070. If the FB switching flag = 00, the host CPU 150a waits until the FB switching flag = 01.

In step S2070, the host CPU 150a sets the FB switching flag = 00 (turns the FB switching flag off), and proceeds to step S2020.
Thereafter, the processes in steps S2020 to S2070 are repeated until a predetermined interrupt shown in FIG. 26 occurs.

(Image control board effect instruction command analysis control processing)
The effect instruction command analysis control process of the image control board 150 will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S2030-1, the host CPU 150a checks whether there is a command in the reception buffer, and checks whether the command has been received.
If there is no command in the reception buffer, the host CPU 150a ends the command analysis process, and if there is a command in the reception buffer, the host CPU 150a moves the process to step S2030-2.

In step S2030-2, the host CPU 150a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a special figure display number designation command (see S1621) corresponding to the display number of special figure hold images.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a special figure display number designation command, the host CPU 150a moves the process to step S2030-3, and if it is not a special figure display number designation command, moves the process to step S2030-5.

In step S2030-3, the host CPU 150a analyzes the special figure display number designation command, and updates the special figure number counter that stores data corresponding to the display number of the special figure pending image in the special figure number counter in the host RAM 150b. Process.
For example, in the case of a special figure display number designation command indicating 1 as the display number of special figure reserved images, 1 is stored in the special figure number counter and updated, and a special figure indicating two as the display number of special figure reserved images is displayed. If it is a figure display number designation command, 2 is stored in the special figure number counter and updated.
As described above, the special figure display number designation command is generated and output by the effect control board 120 every time a special symbol memory designation command from the main control board 110 is input. It can be said that it is transmitted to the image control board 150 when the number of reserved memory stored in the first special symbol reservation number (U1) storage area or the second special symbol reservation number (U2) storage area is switched.

In step S2030-4, the host CPU 150a updates the special figure hold display data.
In the special figure hold display data update process, it is first determined whether or not the special figure number counter has been added in step S2030-3.
Here, the host RAM 150b is provided with a special figure reserved image storage area having a 0th storage unit to a fourth storage unit corresponding to each data (holding number) of the special figure number counter.

  When the special figure number counter is added, the special figure hold display data is stored in the storage unit of the special figure hold image storage area corresponding to the new data (new hold number) of the special figure number counter. For example, when the special figure number counter changes from 3 to 4, the special figure hold display data is stored in the fourth storage unit of the special figure hold image storage area.

  On the other hand, when the special figure number counter is subtracted, the special figure hold display data stored in the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit in the special figure hold image storage area is shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, the special figure hold display data already written in the 0th storage unit is overwritten and erased by the special figure hold display data in the first storage unit.

In step S2030-5, the host CPU 150a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a universal map display number designation command (see S1695) corresponding to the display count of the universal map hold image.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a general-purpose display number designation command, the host CPU 150a moves the process to step S2030-6, and if it is not a general-purpose display number designation command, moves the process to step S2030-8.

In step S2030-6, the host CPU 150a analyzes the universal figure display number designation command, and updates the universal figure number counter that stores the data corresponding to the display number of the universal figure display image in the universal figure number counter in the host RAM 150b. Process.
For example, in the case of a command display number designation command indicating 1 as the display number of the general map hold image, 1 is stored in the general map number counter and updated, and the display number of the general map hold image is displayed as two. If it is a figure display number designation command, 2 is stored in the usual figure number counter and updated.
As described above, the universal figure display number designation command is generated and output by the effect control board 120 every time the normal symbol memory designation command from the main control board 110 is input. It can be said that the normal symbol hold number (G) is transmitted to the image control board 150 when the hold storage number stored in the storage area is switched.

In step S2030-7, the host CPU 150a performs update processing of the general-purpose hold display data.
In the update process of the general map hold display data, it is first determined whether or not the general map number counter has been added in step S2030-6.
Here, the host RAM 150b is provided with an ordinary reserved image storage area having a 0th storage unit to a fourth storage unit corresponding to each data (reserved number) of the ordinary number counter.

  When the common figure number counter is added, “general figure hold display data 0” is stored in the storage unit of the common figure hold image storage area corresponding to the new data (new hold number) of the common figure number counter. . For example, when the usual figure number counter changes from 3 to 4, “usual figure hold display data 0” is stored in the fourth storage unit of the usual figure hold image storage area.

  On the other hand, when the common figure counter is subtracted, the common figure hold display data stored in the first to fourth storage parts in the usual figure reserved image storage area is shifted to the previous storage part. At this time, the general-purpose hold display data already written in the 0th storage unit is overwritten and deleted by the hold display data in the first storage unit.

In step S2030-8, the host CPU 150a determines whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a hold pattern designation command (see S1693) corresponding to the display mode of the general map hold image (general map display data). Confirm.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a hold pattern designation command, the host CPU 150a moves the process to step S2030-9, and if it is not a hold pattern designation command, moves the process to step S2030-10.

In step S2030-9, the host CPU 150a performs processing for setting the general-purpose hold display data.
In the processing for setting the general-purpose hold display data, the general-purpose hold display data (see FIG. 13) corresponding to the received hold pattern designation command is changed to the general-purpose hold image data corresponding to the current general-purpose number counter data (hold number). Overwrite and store in the storage section of the storage area. For example, when the hold pattern designation command “F0H02H” is received, if the normal figure number counter = 2, the “normal figure hold display data 2” is overwritten and stored in the second storage unit of the normal hold image storage area. To do.

In Step S2030-10, the host CPU 150a determines whether the command stored in the reception buffer is an effect pattern designation command for performing a predetermined effect (see S1611, Step S1641, Step S1671, Step S1681, and Step S1691). Confirm whether or not.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is an effect pattern designation command, the host CPU 150a moves the process to step S2030-11, and if not the effect pattern designation command, moves the process to step S2030-13.

In step S2030-11, the host CPU 150a determines one or more animation groups to be executed based on the received effect pattern designation command.
Thereafter, in step S2030-12, the host CPU 150a determines an animation pattern from the determined animation group. Then, the determined animation pattern is set in the animation pattern storage area in the host RAM 150b.
A specific example regarding the determination of the animation group and the animation pattern will be described later with reference to FIG.

In step S2030-13, the host CPU 150a checks whether or not the command stored in the reception buffer is a short time presence / absence designation command (see step S1661) indicating a non-short time gaming state or a short time gaming state.
If the command stored in the reception buffer is a time reduction presence / absence designation command, the host CPU 150a moves the process to step S2030-14, and if it is not a time reduction presence / absence designation command, the host CPU 150a moves the process to step S2030-15.

In step S2030-14, the host CPU 150a analyzes the received short time presence / absence designation command and sets “00H” in the short time effect flag storage area in the host RAM 150b if the non-short time game state is set (clears the short time effect flag). If it is a non-short-time game state, “01H” is set in the short-time effect flag storage area in the host RAM 150b (the short-time effect flag is turned on).
Further, the host CPU 150a determines whether or not the data stored in the time reduction effect flag storage area has changed from “00H” to “01H” (whether or not the time reduction effect flag is newly turned on). When the data stored in the time saving effect flag storage area changes from “00H” to “01H”, all the general map hold display data stored in each storage unit of the normal map hold image storage area Overwrite the figure hold display data 0 ”and store it. Here, the data stored in the time-saving effect flag storage area changes from “00H” to “01H” only when the big hit game ends.
In other words, when it is decided to shift to the short-time game state when the big hit game is finished, the general figure hold image (notice hold display 1, notice hold display) for informing the lottery result of “ordinary symbol lottery” in advance. 2) will be replaced with a regular figure hold image (normal hold display) that does not notify the lottery result of “normal symbol lottery” in advance.

In step S2030-15, the host CPU 150a appropriately sets necessary data in a predetermined storage area of the host RAM 150b based on the other received commands, and ends the current presentation instruction command analysis control process.
When a command stored in the reception buffer is read, the read effect instruction command is deleted from the transmission buffer.

(Image control board interrupt processing)
The interrupt process of the image control board 150 will be described with reference to FIG.
In the interrupt processing of the image control board 150, a drawing end interrupt process performed by inputting a drawing end interrupt signal, a V blank interrupt process performed by inputting a V blank interrupt signal, and a command are received. And at least a command reception interrupt process performed.
Note that the drawing end interrupt process and the V blank interrupt process are described with reference to FIG. 26, but the command reception interrupt process is as described in step S2030 and is not shown.

(Image control board drawing end interrupt processing)
FIG. 26A is a diagram illustrating a drawing end interrupt process of the image control board 150.
When the drawing of a predetermined unit frame (one frame) is finished, the VDP 2000 outputs a drawing end interrupt signal to the host CPU 150a via the CPU I / F 2030.
When the host CPU 150a receives a drawing end interrupt signal from the VDP 2000, the host CPU 150a executes a drawing end interrupt process.

  In the drawing end interrupt process, the host CPU 150a sets the drawing end flag = 01 (turns on the drawing end flag), and ends the current drawing end interrupt process (step S2110). That is, the drawing end flag is turned on every time drawing ends.

(V blank interrupt processing for image control board)
FIG. 26B is a diagram showing a V blank interrupt process for the image control board 150.
The VDP2000 outputs a V blank interrupt signal (vertical synchronization signal) to the host CPU 150a via the CPU I / F 2030 every 1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms).
When the host CPU 150a receives a V blank interrupt signal from the VDP 2000, the host CPU 150a executes a V blank interrupt process.

  In step S2210, the host CPU 150a performs processing for updating various counters such as “scene switching counter”, “wait frame”, and “frame counter” which will be described later.

In step S2220, the host CPU 150a determines whether or not the drawing end flag = 01. That is, it is determined whether or not drawing of a predetermined unit frame has been completed.
If the drawing end flag = 01, the host CPU 150a moves the process to step S2230. If the drawing end flag = 01, the host CPU 150a ends the current V blank interrupt process. That is, even if the V blank interrupt signal is input, if the drawing is not completed, the processing after step S2230 is not performed.

  In step S2230, the host CPU 150a sets a drawing end flag = 00 (turns the drawing end flag off).

In step S 2240, the host CPU 150 a gives an instruction to switch between the “display frame buffer” and the “drawing frame buffer” to the memory controller 2090 of the VDP 2000.
Specifically, the host CPU 150a performs a process of adding 1 to the first bit of the display register via the CPU I / F 2030 (see FIG. 6D).

  In step S2250, the host CPU 150a sets the FB switching flag = 01 (turns on the FB switching flag), cancels the standby state in step S2060, and ends the current V blank interrupt processing.

  Next, a method for determining an animation pattern and a method for generating a display list composed of a group of drawing control commands will be described with reference to FIGS.

(Anime pattern)
FIG. 27 is an example of an animation pattern for displaying an animation of a production pattern.

As shown in FIG. 27A, the animation patterns are grouped for each object or scene displayed on the liquid crystal display device 31, and display a background group for displaying the background animation, and an animation of the character used for the notice A. Notice group A for displaying the animation of the character used for the notice B, the reach group for displaying the animation of the reach character, the effect symbol group for displaying the animation of the effect symbol 36, the jackpot There are a number of groups such as a jackpot production group for displaying production animations. A large number of animation patterns are associated with each group and stored in the host ROM 150c.
Based on the effect pattern designation command received from the sub CPU 120a, the host CPU 150a determines one or a plurality of animation groups to be executed and determines an animation pattern from each animation group.

  FIGS. 27B to 27E show animations that are determined when an effect pattern designation command (A1H01H) corresponding to the change effect pattern 1 shown in FIG. 12 (the change pattern 1 of the 20-second special symbol) is received. An example of the pattern is shown.

  When the host CPU 150a receives the variable effect pattern designating command (A1H01H) corresponding to the variable effect pattern 1, the host CPU 150a determines four groups of the background group, the notice A group, the reach group, and the effect symbol group. The animation pattern 1 is determined from the group, the animation pattern 11 is determined from the notice A group, the animation pattern 31 is determined from the reach group, and the animation pattern 501 is determined from the production symbol group.

Here, as shown in FIGS. 27B to 27E, the animation pattern stores a combination of animation scene information, a display order of each animation scene information, and the like.
For example, in the effect design group / animation pattern 501 shown in FIG. 27E, the animation scene 501 is executed first, the animation scene 502 is executed second, and the animation scene 511 is executed third.
The host RAM 150 b has a “scene switching counter” that is updated every frame. When the scene switching counter measures 540 while the first animation scene 501 is being executed, the second animation scene 502 is displayed. The animation scene changes. Then, when the scene switching counter measures 540 while the second animation scene 502 is being executed, the animation scene is switched to the third animation scene 511. Finally, when the scene switching counter measures 60 while the third animation scene 511 is being executed, the animation scene of the production symbol group / animation pattern 501 ends.
Note that “one frame” is the update timing of the liquid crystal display device (update timing of the vertical synchronization signal), and one frame is updated every 1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms). That is, 60 frames are measured in 1 second.

Each animation scene stores animation scene information, and wait frames (that is, display time) updated every frame, target data (sprite identification number, transfer source address, etc.), parameters (sprite Display information such as a display position, a transfer destination address, and a drawing method.
For example, in the animation scene 501 shown in FIG. 27 (e), the first design to the fourth design are continuously displayed up to 20 frames (about 0.33 seconds) at predetermined coordinates. Thereafter, the first symbol to the fourth symbol are continuously displayed at different coordinates for up to 15 frames (about 0.25 seconds). Similarly, when the first symbol to the fourth symbol are continuously displayed at different coordinates up to a predetermined frame, an animation is displayed in which the first symbol to the fourth symbol is moved and displayed. be able to.

Then, as shown in FIGS. 27B to 27E, the anime pattern 1 of the background group, the anime pattern 11 from the notice A group, the anime pattern 31 from the reach group, and the anime pattern from the production symbol group. A plurality of animation patterns 501 are determined, and the animations of these animation patterns are executed in parallel.
That is, in the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31, the mountain background image continues to be displayed as the background from the start of the animation pattern until 10 seconds, and the character A (airplane image) notice display is displayed 2 seconds after the start of the animation pattern. The image to be animated is displayed for 3 seconds. Further, 10 seconds after the start of the animation pattern (120 frames), an image for performing a reach effect animation such as the character Z is displayed for 9 seconds. Further, an image for performing the animation of the normal variation display of the effect design 36 is performed for 10 seconds, and thereafter, the reach variation display is performed for 9 seconds, and finally, the image for performing the animation of the temporary stop display for 1 second is displayed.
Note that these images are displayed in an overlapping manner in the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31, and the first drawn image is overwritten by the later drawn image and erased. This image generation method will be described in the next display list.

(Display list)
FIG. 28 and FIG. 29 are examples of a display list composed of a drawing control command group.
FIG. 28 is an example of a display list generated when an effect pattern designation command (A1H01H) corresponding to the variable effect pattern 1 shown in FIG. 12 is received. FIG. 29 is an example of a display list generated when an effect pattern designation command based on the jackpot effect pattern is received.

The host CPU 150a generates a display list while referring to various data stored in the host RAM 150b, and outputs the generated display list to the VDP 2000.
Specifically, special map hold image storage area (special map hold display data), general map hold image storage area (general map hold display data), animation pattern storage area (anime scene, anime pattern, anime group), etc. While referring to the data, a display list is generated for each predetermined frame (one frame).

Here, the priority order (drawing order) is set in advance for the reference data to be referred to for generating the display list, and by generating drawing control commands based on various data according to the priority order (drawing order). A display list is generated.
In particular, with regard to this priority, the lowest priority 9 data is associated with the background group, the priority A data is associated with the notice A group, and the priority 7 data is associated with the notice B group. The default data for displaying the information basic image that is associated and displayed in the background of the special map reserved image or the general map reserved image is associated with the data of priority 6 and is stored in the general map reserved image storage area (general map). (Holding display data) is associated with priority level 5 data, priority figure pending image storage area (special figure pending display data) is associated with priority level 4 data, and reach group is priority level 3 data. Are assigned, data of priority 2 is associated with the jackpot production group, and data of highest priority 1 is associated with the production symbol group. The default data is data that is displayed every time.
In other words, in the present embodiment, the priority orders 6 to 4 of the default data, the general map reserved image storage area, and the special figure reserved image storage area are set lower than the priority order 3 for the reach group priority order 3 and the big hit effect group. Has been.

  When referring to the animation pattern, the host CPU 150a generates a drawing control command according to the contents of the animation scene in the “frame counter” indicating the current frame.

As described above with reference to FIG. 27, when the effect pattern designation command (A1H01H) corresponding to the variable effect pattern 1 is received, the animation pattern 1 of the background group, the animation pattern 11 from the notice A group, and the animation pattern 31 from the reach group. It is assumed that the animation pattern 501 and the animation pattern 501 are determined from the effect design group.
Here, it is assumed that “2” is stored in the special figure number counter, and special figure hold display data is stored in the first storage unit to the second storage unit in the special figure hold image storage area. Furthermore, “3” is stored in the universal figure counter, and “general figure hold display data 0” is stored in the first storage unit and the third storage unit in the general figure hold image storage area. Assume that “secondary map display data 2” is stored in the second storage unit in the storage area.

  FIG. 28A is an example of a display list of the first half (121 to 300 frames) generated when an effect pattern designation command (A1H01H) corresponding to the variable effect pattern 1 shown in FIG. 12 is received.

The host CPU 150a receives the effect pattern designation command (A1H01H) corresponding to the variable effect pattern 1, and when the “frame counter” (the current number of frames) is 121 to 300 frames, the default data, the usual figure reserved image storage area, A display list corresponding to the current number of frames is generated while referring to data in the special figure reserved image storage area and the animation pattern storage area (animation pattern 1, animation pattern 11, animation pattern 31, animation pattern 501).
Specifically, the background group animation pattern 1 (animation scene 1), the notice A group animation pattern 11 (animation scene 11), default data, ordinary map reserved image storage area, special figure reserved image storage area, reach group A display list as shown in FIG. 28A is generated in accordance with the priority order of the animation pattern 31 (anime scene 0) and the animation pattern 501 (animation scene 501) of the production symbol group.

  FIG. 28B is an example of a display list of the latter half (601 to 1540 frames) generated when an effect pattern designation command (A1H01H) corresponding to the variable effect pattern 1 shown in FIG. 12 is received.

The host CPU 150a receives the effect pattern designation command (A1H01H) corresponding to the variable effect pattern 1, and when the “frame counter” (current number of frames) is 601 to 1540 frames, the default data, the general-purpose reserved image storage area, A display list corresponding to the current number of frames is generated while referring to data in the special figure reserved image storage area and the animation pattern storage area (animation pattern 31 and animation pattern 501).
Specifically, in accordance with the priority order of default data, ordinary figure reserved image storage area, special figure reserved image storage area, reach group animation pattern 31 (animation scene 31), and production pattern group animation pattern 501 (animation scene 502). Then, a display list as shown in FIG. 28B is generated.

  FIG. 29 is an example of a display list generated when an effect pattern designation command based on the jackpot effect pattern is received.

It is assumed that when an effect pattern designation command based on the jackpot effect pattern is received, the animation pattern 101 of the jackpot effect group is determined.
Here, it is assumed that “2” is stored in the special figure number counter, and special figure hold display data is stored in the first storage unit to the second storage unit in the special figure hold image storage area. Furthermore, “3” is stored in the universal figure counter, and “general figure hold display data 0” is stored in the first storage unit and the third storage unit in the general figure hold image storage area. Assume that “secondary map display data 2” is stored in the second storage unit in the storage area.

When receiving the effect pattern designation command based on the jackpot effect pattern, the host CPU 150a refers to the data in the default data, the ordinary map reserved image storage area, the special figure reserved image storage area, and the animation pattern storage area (animation pattern 101). A display list corresponding to the current number of frames is generated.
Specifically, a display list as shown in FIG. 29 is generated in accordance with the priority order of the default data, the usual figure reserved image storage area, the special figure reserved image storage area, and the big hit effect group animation pattern 101 (animation scene XX). .

  As described above, when the host CPU 150a outputs a display list in which drawing control command groups are grouped in predetermined frames (one frame) to the VDP 2000, the drawing circuit 2070 in the VDP 2000 performs specific drawing processing. The processing load on the host CPU 150a can be reduced.

  Next, processing executed in VDP2000 will be described.

(Expansion circuit expansion control processing)
The extension control process of the extension circuit 2060 in the VDP 2000 will be described with reference to FIG.

First, in step S2310, the decompression circuit 2060 determines whether or not there has been an instruction to start decompression execution for decompressing image data to be rendered from the rendering circuit 2070. Specifically, it is determined whether or not decompression execution start data is set in the decompression register by the drawing circuit 2070 (whether or not 1 is set in the 0th bit of the decompression register) (see FIG. 6C).
When there is an instruction to start decompression execution, the decompression circuit 2060 moves the process to step S2320, and when there is no instruction to start decompression execution, the decompression circuit 2060 waits until there is an instruction to start decompression execution.

  In step S2320, the decompression circuit 2060 clears the decompression start data of the decompression register set by the drawing circuit 2070 (sets 0 to the 0th bit of the decompression register).

  In step S2330, the decompression circuit 2060 sets decompression execution data in the decompression register (sets 1 to the 1st bit of the decompression register) in order to inform the drawing circuit 2070 that decompression is being performed (FIG. 6 ( c)).

  In step S2340, the decompression circuit 2060 reads the compressed image data compressed in the CRROM 151, decompresses the read compressed image data to the original image data, and decompresses the decompressed image data in the decompression storage area 153b of the VRAM 153. Let

In step S2350, the decompression circuit 2060 determines whether decompression of one image has been completed.
In the decompression circuit 2060, when decompression of one image is completed, the process proceeds to step S2360. When decompression of one image is not completed, the process returns to step S2340 and the decompression process is repeated.

  In step S2360, when the decompression circuit 2060 completes decompression of one image, the decompression register 2070 clears the decompression execution data in the decompression register in order to notify the rendering circuit 2070 that decompression has ended (sets 0 to the 1-bit of the decompression register). Then, the process returns to step S2310 to repeat the expansion control process.

(Drawing control process in drawing circuit)
A drawing control process of the drawing circuit 2070 in the VDP 2000 will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S2410, the drawing circuit 2070 determines whether there is an instruction to start drawing from the host CPU 150a. Specifically, the host CPU 150a determines whether or not drawing execution start data is set in the drawing register (whether or not 1 is set in the 0th bit of the drawing register) (see FIG. 6B). .
The drawing circuit 2070 shifts the process to step S2420 when there is an instruction to start drawing, and waits until there is an instruction to start drawing when there is no instruction to start drawing.

  In step S2420, the drawing circuit 2070 clears the drawing execution start data of the drawing register set by the host CPU 150a (sets 0 in the 0 bit of the drawing register).

In step S2430, the drawing circuit 2070 reads the display list stored in the display list storage area 153a of the VRAM 153, and sequentially analyzes the drawing display control commands of the read display list according to a predetermined priority (drawing order). Go.
Here, not all of the plurality of drawing control commands in the display list are analyzed at once. In one display list analysis control process, a predetermined unit (drawing order) is used in accordance with a predetermined priority (drawing order). For example, a drawing control command of one image data) is sequentially analyzed.

  In step S2440, the drawing circuit 2070 stores a decompression command for decompressing the compressed image in the display list, and if the image data to be rendered is not stored (expanded) in the expanded storage area 153b of the VRAM 153, the decompression circuit Instruct 2060 to decompress the image data to be drawn. Specifically, the decompression execution start data is set in the decompression register (1 is set to 0 bit of the decompression register).

In step S2450, the drawing circuit 2070 determines whether the expansion of the image to be drawn has been completed. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the decompression execution data is cleared in the decompression register (whether or not 0 is set in the first bit of the decompression register).
The drawing circuit 2070 shifts the process to step S2460 when the drawing image has been decompressed, and waits until the drawing image has been decompressed when the drawing image has not been decompressed.

  In step S2460, the drawing circuit 2070 sets the necessary data in the drawing register according to the display list drawing control command, and displays the expanded image in the expanded storage area 153b of the VRAM 153 in the “drawing frame buffer in the VRAM 153”. The drawing process for drawing is performed.

In step S2470, the drawing circuit 2070 determines whether all the drawing control commands in the display list of one frame have been completed (drawing processing of one frame has been completed).
When the drawing process for one frame is completed, the drawing circuit 2070 shifts the process to step S2480. When the drawing process for one frame is not completed, the drawing circuit 2070 returns the process to step S2430, and the drawing process for one frame is completed. Until the process is completed, the “display list analysis control process” in step S2430, the “decompression instruction process” in step S2440, and the “drawing process” in step S2460 are repeated.
If all the image data is compressed and stored in the CGROM 151 as in the present embodiment, the image is expanded and drawn for each image according to the display list.

  In step S2480, the drawing circuit 2070 sets the drawing end data in the interrupt register (sets 1 in the first bit of the system control register) (see FIG. 6A), and returns the processing to step S2410 to control drawing. Repeat the process.

(Display control processing in display circuit)
A display control process of the display circuit 2080 in the VDP 2000 will be described with reference to FIG.

In step S2510, the display circuit 2080 determines whether there is an instruction to create a video signal from the host CPU 150a. Specifically, it is determined whether 1 is set in the 0 bit of the display register (see FIG. 6D).
If there is an instruction to create a video signal, the display circuit 2080 moves to step S2520. If there is no instruction to create a video signal, the display circuit 2080 waits until there is an instruction to create a video signal.
As a general rule, the 0th bit of the display register remains set to “1” from the time of power-on (the video signal creation ON state is maintained from the time of power-on).

  In step S2520, the display circuit 2080 generates an RGB signal (analog signal) indicating image color data as a video signal from the image data (digital signal) stored in the “display frame buffer” in the VRAM 153.

  In step S2530, the display circuit 2080 generates the generated video signal (RGB signal) and a synchronization signal (vertical synchronization signal, horizontal synchronization signal, etc.) for synchronizing with the liquid crystal display device 31 (LCD). Output to (LCD). Thereafter, the process returns to step S2510 to repeat the display control process.

Next, with reference to FIG. 33 to FIG. 36, game contents performed on the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 31 will be described.
FIG. 33 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the game contents from the start of the variable display of the effect symbol 36 to the big hit game.
FIG. 34 is a configuration diagram of the display screen of FIG. 33A, and shows a configuration diagram of the display screen of the variation effect pattern until the reach effect is displayed.
FIG. 35 is a configuration diagram of the display screen of FIG. 33 (c), and shows a configuration diagram of the display screen of the variation effect pattern when the reach effect is displayed.
Furthermore, FIG. 36 is a configuration diagram of the display screen of FIG. 33 (f), and shows a configuration diagram of the display screen of the big hit effect pattern when the big hit effect is displayed.

(Game contents)
FIG. 33A is a display screen in which the effect symbol 36 is variably displayed in the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31.
Here, the effect symbol 36 is composed of four types of symbols. In FIG. 33A, the effect symbol 36a for the left, the effect symbol 36b for the middle, and the effect for the right are shown in the center of the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31. The symbol 36c is displayed, and a small fourth display symbol 36d is displayed at the lower left of the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31. Further, an information basic image 37b is displayed below the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31. On the information basic image 37b, two special figure hold images 37a and three general figure hold images 38a, 38b is displayed. Furthermore, a mountain background image 39a and an airplane image 39b used for the notice A are displayed in the background of the effect design 36.

FIG. 33B is a display screen showing a state in which a predetermined time has elapsed from the state of FIG.
At this time, for the left effect symbol 36a and the right effect symbol 36c, the same type of effect symbol (for example, 7) is stopped and displayed at the corners of the display area.
The “stop display” of the effect symbol 36 in the present embodiment includes a complete stop display in which the effect symbol 36 does not move at all and a temporary stop display in which the effect symbol 36 swings slightly.

FIG. 33C is a display screen on which a character Z39c appears after a predetermined time has elapsed from the state of FIG.
At this time, the character Z39c is displayed over the front surface of the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31, and the special figure hold image 37a and the general figure hold images 38a and 38b below the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31 are erased. .

FIG. 33D is a display screen that displays the result of the reach effect after a predetermined time has elapsed from the state of FIG.
At this time, the medium-type effect symbol 36b of the same kind as the effect symbol 36a for the left and the effect symbol 36c for the right is stopped and displayed. In addition, as a result of the reach effect, a display in which the character Z39c is defeated is also performed.

FIG. 33E is a display screen that displays that a predetermined time has elapsed from the state of FIG.
At this time, a character image “big hit” is displayed in the display area of the liquid crystal display device 31.

FIG. 33 (f) is a display screen that displays that a big hit game has been played after a predetermined time has elapsed from the state of FIG. 33 (e).
At this time, a history image 39e, a big hit round image 39f, and a big hit background image 39g for informing the effect that has been a big hit opportunity are displayed.

(Configuration diagram of display screen of variation effect pattern)
The configuration diagrams of the display screens of FIGS. 33A and 33C will be described with reference to FIGS. 34 and 35. FIG.

  FIG. 34 is a configuration diagram of the display screen of FIG. 33 (a), in which data drawn according to the display list shown in FIG. 28 (a) is displayed.

As shown in the display list shown in FIG. 28 (a), the mountain background image 39a is first drawn, then the airplane image 39b is drawn, and the information basic image 37b, the three ordinary reserved images 38a, 38b, When two special figure reservation images 37a, a left effect symbol 36a, a right effect symbol 36c, a medium effect symbol 36b, and a fourth effect symbol 36d are drawn in this order, as shown in FIG. A plurality of images are overlaid in order, and a display screen shown in FIG. 34B is finally created.
In FIG. 33 (a), the change display of the effect symbol 36 is indicated by an arrow, but to be precise, the effect symbol 36 is stopped and displayed for a predetermined number of frames (a configuration like a so-called fluent comic). In FIG. 34, the effect design 36 is stopped and displayed.

  FIG. 35 is a configuration diagram of the display screen of FIG. 33 (c), in which data drawn according to the display list shown in FIG. 28 (b) is displayed.

  As shown in the display list shown in FIG. 28 (b) above, the information basic image 37b is first drawn, then the three general-purpose reserved images 38a and 38b are drawn, and the two special figure reserved images 37a, When the road background image 39d, the character Z39c, the left effect symbol 36a, the right effect symbol 36c, the middle effect symbol 36b, and the fourth effect symbol 36d are drawn in this order, as shown in FIG. A plurality of images are superimposed in order, and a display screen shown in FIG. 35B is finally created.

(Configuration diagram of the display screen of the jackpot effect pattern)
A configuration diagram of the display screen in FIG. 33F will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 36 shows data drawn according to the display list shown in FIG.

  As shown in the display list shown in FIG. 29, the information basic image 37b is first drawn, then the three general-purpose reserved images 38a and 38b are drawn, and the two special figure reserved images 37a and the jackpot background image are drawn. If drawing is performed in the order of 39g, big hit round image 39f, and history image 39e, a plurality of images are superimposed in order from the bottom as shown in FIG. 36A, and finally the display screen shown in FIG. Is created.

  According to the present embodiment described above, the ordinary map holding image 38 for performing the advance notification of the open / closed state of the start variable winning device, the reach effect image (character Z39c, the road background image 39d) or the jackpot effect image (the jackpot background image). While the 39g, the big hit round image 39f, and the history image 39e) are constituted by the same liquid crystal display device 31, the degree of freedom of the display method of the reach effect image or the big hit effect image can be improved. Further, by improving the degree of freedom of the display method of the reach effect image or the jackpot effect image, it is possible to further improve the interest of the game.

In particular, the player shifts to a big hit game that is triggered by the entry of a game ball into the second start port 15 rather than the opening of the start variable winning device that makes it easy for the game ball to win the second start port 15. Even if the reach effect image that produces an effect corresponding to the transition to the big hit game is preferentially displayed, the interest of the game will not be lost.
In general, when a big hit game is played, the player plays a big hit game while getting drunk with a sense of accomplishment, superiority or happiness, and a variable start winning device that makes it easy for a game ball to win at the second start port 15. There is less interest in opening up. For this reason, even if the jackpot effect image for notifying that the jackpot game is being played is displayed preferentially, the interest of the game is not lost.

  In this embodiment, one frame is updated every 1/60 seconds (about 16.6 ms). However, one frame may be updated every 1/30 seconds, or every 1/120 seconds. One frame may be updated every time. In other words, the design cycle can be freely changed for one frame update period.

  In the present embodiment, one frame is updated and the next frame is drawn when drawing by the drawing circuit 2070 is completed. However, by updating one frame, the next frame is always updated. You may comprise so that the frame of this may be drawn.

  In the present embodiment, on the condition that the drawing is finished, each frame is updated so that the next frame can be drawn. However, every time two frames are updated, the next frame is updated. It may be configured to be able to draw a frame, or may be configured to be able to draw the next frame every time three frames are updated, that is, one frame. The update cycle and the drawing cycle of the drawing circuit may not be the same.

  Moreover, according to this embodiment, although the game machine used for a pachinko game machine was demonstrated, you may use for a jade ball game machine and an arrangement ball game machine.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 2 Game board 14 1st starting port 14a 1st starting port detection switch 15 2nd starting port 15a 2nd starting port detection switch 20 1st special symbol display device 21 2nd special symbol display device 31 Liquid crystal display device 110 Main Control board 110a Main CPU
110b Main ROM
110c Main RAM
120 Production control board 120a Sub CPU
120b Sub ROM
120c sub RAM
150 Image control board 150a Host CPU
150b host RAM
150c host ROM
151 CGROM
153 VRAM
153a Display list storage area 153b Expanded storage area 153c First frame buffer 153d Second frame buffer 153s Screenshot storage area 2000 VDP
2010 Control register 2020 CG bus I / F
2030 CPU I / F
2050 Clock generation circuit 2060 Expansion circuit 2070 Drawing circuit 2080 Display circuit 2090 Memory controller

Claims (4)

A game board in which a game area where game balls flow down is formed;
A start area detecting means for detecting a game ball that has entered a start area provided in the game area;
A normal area detecting means for detecting a game ball that has entered a normal area provided in the gaming area;
A special variable winning device that can be changed between an open state that makes it easier to enter a game ball into a special area provided in the game area and a closed state that makes it difficult to enter the game area;
A start variable winning device that can be changed between an open state that makes it easier to enter the game ball into the start area and a closed state that makes it difficult to enter the game ball;
Special game determination means for determining whether or not to control a special game for changing the special variable prize-winning device to an open state on the condition that a game ball is detected by the start area detection means;
Special game control means for controlling the special game on condition that the special game determination means determines that the special game is to be controlled;
Normal determination information acquisition means for acquiring normal determination information on condition that a game ball is detected by the normal area detection means;
Normal hold storage means for storing the normal determination information acquired by the normal determination information acquisition means up to a predetermined upper limit;
Specific information determination means for referring to the normal determination information stored by the normal hold storage means in accordance with a predetermined winning order, and determining whether the referenced normal determination information is specific determination information;
When it is determined by the specific information determination means that the specific determination information, the start opening control means for performing control to change the start variable winning device to the open state,
Prior determination means for determining whether or not the normal determination information is specific determination information before the normal determination information stored in the normal hold storage means is referred to by the start-open game determination means;
An image display device that displays a predetermined image by inputting a video signal;
Special notice image for displaying the notice image information for displaying the notice image for notifying the determination result of the prior determination means and the special effect image for notifying that the special game control is being performed by the special game control. Image information storage means for storing at least effect image information;
Image determining means for determining an image to be displayed on the image display device;
Display image storage means for storing image information to be displayed on the image display device;
Drawing control means for drawing the image by storing the image information stored in the image information storage means in the display image storage means in accordance with a predetermined drawing order based on the image determined by the image determination means; ,
Display control means for generating a video signal from the image information stored in the display image storage means and outputting the video signal to the image display apparatus to display the image on the image display apparatus. ,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the drawing control means deletes the notice image from the display image storage means when the notice image and the special effect image are decided by the image decision means.   When the image determining unit determines the preview image and the special effect image, the drawing control unit stores the preview image in the display image storage unit, and then overwrites the preview image to the special image. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the preview image is erased from the display image storage means by storing the effect image in the display image storage means. Non-specific game state transition for determining to shift to the non-specific game state in which the number of the specific determination information is set to the first number when the special game is controlled by the special game control means A determination means;
When the control of the special game is terminated by the special game control means, a second number of the specific determination information from the non-specific game state is greater than the first number based on a predetermined transition condition. Specific game state transition determination means for determining whether or not to shift to a specific game state set to the number;
Specific game state control means for controlling the non-specific game state or the specific game state based on a determination result by the non-specific game state transition determination means or a determination result by the specific game state transition determination means;
When the notice image is decided by the image decision means, the information holding means for holding formation information indicating that the notice information is decided at least until the control of the special game is ended,
The drawing control means, when the establishment information is held by the information holding means, causes the display image storage means to store a preview image based on the establishment information,
The information retaining means retains the information when the special game control means ends the control of the special game when the specific game state transition determination means determines that the special game state is to be shifted to the specific game state. The game according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the establishment information is erased, and the establishment information is continuously held when it is not determined by the specific gaming state transition determination means to shift to the specific gaming state. Machine. An image that has at least the image storage unit, the image determination unit, the display image storage unit, the drawing control unit, and the display control unit, and controls the display of a predetermined image on the image display device. Control means;
A control signal output means for outputting a notice control signal corresponding to the determination result to the image control means when a determination is made by the prior determination means;
The image determining means determines the preview image based on the input preview control signal,
The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control signal output means regulates the output of the notice control signal when the special game is controlled by the special game control.