JP2011206479A - Pinball game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine that can give a feeling of attractiveness to a game player by effectively performing a service utilizing a game status immediately before shutting off the power to increase ability for attracting customers.SOLUTION: A Pachinko game machine 10 includes: a game status holding means 158 that not only memorizes the information of a status that can specify in which status the game status is but also holds the memory of the information of the status at the time when the power is shut off; and a start control means that restores the game status before the power is shut off based on the information of the status memorized by the game status holding means when the power is next supplied after the power shutoff. The start control means performs control to suggest from which status the game status starts by operating a specific control object in a mode seemingly different from a normal status depending on the information of the status memorized by the game status holding means 158 when the power is next supplied after the power is shut off.

Description

  The present invention relates to a ball game machine such as a pachinko game machine, and more particularly to a technique for controlling the progress of a game in a ball game machine.

  Conventionally, among the various types of ball game machines, the so-called first type pachinko game machine, a lottery is performed in response to a ball entering a start winning opening provided on the game board. Depending on the result of the lottery, symbols are displayed in a variable manner. In other words, a plurality of symbols are displayed in a display area such as a liquid crystal display provided substantially in the center of the game board while the symbols are varied (hereinafter, such a display is referred to as “symbol variation” or “variable display”). This gaming machine is known to shift to a special game when a combination of symbols when a plurality of rows of symbol variations are stopped has a specific form. A special game is also called a big hit, and a unit game is performed multiple times with a predetermined period opening of a big prize opening provided on the game board, and a predetermined number of prize balls are awarded for each entry to the big prize opening. A payout is made. As a result, more prize balls than normal games can be obtained. The variable display of symbols in the display area is not limited to simply displaying multiple symbols in a variable manner, but the time required for the variable display to be a big hit if one more symbols are aligned, such as the so-called reach screen. For example, an effect is made to increase the player's expectation, such as making it longer.

  Some gaming machines shift to a specific game advantageous to a player called a so-called probability variation game (hereinafter also referred to as “probability change”) after the special game is over. In the probability change, a lottery with a higher win probability than the normal probability state is performed, and a new special game is generated relatively early, so that the player's expectation is further enhanced. In addition, there is a game that shifts to a specific game (the state is also referred to as “the easy to enter a game” state) that increases the ease of entering the start winning opening after the special game is finished. In the easy-to-enter state, the opening time of the opening-type start winning opening is extended, and the variation time of the symbol is shortened compared to the normal state, so that the player's expectation is enhanced.

  Depending on the progress method of the game in each gaming machine, it is possible to realize a gameability that advances the game state in an order different from normal. In fact, among the diversified gaming machines in recent years, there has also been realized a novel gameability that advances the game so that the gaming state that would have been advantageous to the player in the past is changed to be disadvantageous to the player (for example, (See Patent Documents 1 and 2).

JP 2009-39293 A JP 2009-39299 A

  By the way, in such a gaming machine, it has a function of backing up game information indicating a gaming state such as a probability change state or an easy entry state to a storage device in preparation for unexpected power interruption such as a power failure. There is something. In such a gaming machine, even if the power supply is interrupted due to an external factor such as a power failure, the gaming information held in the storage device when the power supply is restored is read before the power is interrupted. The gaming state of can be reproduced. As a result, the game can be resumed without losing the profits that the player had before the power was cut off.

  Such a game information backup function functions and retains game information even when the power supply of the gaming machine is cut off by a normal operation, that is, even when the power switch is turned off after closing the store. When the power supply is resumed on the next business day, the game information held in the storage device is read out. As a result, when the power is cut off, the game is started in the specific game state when the power is turned on when the probability change state or the easy entry state is established. Therefore, in general, in order to prevent such an imbalance from occurring due to the state memory, the power is turned on via a special operation called “RAM clear” before the operation or the like, so that it is held in the storage device. The game information is not reproduced.

  However, since the above-described probability change state and easy-to-enter state are advantageous for the player, if the game machine is started from the advantageous state at the time of starting the gaming machine, it will be very attractive to the player, and its willingness to play will increase. Also, the hall side can increase the interest of customers targeting the advantageous gaming machine by simply turning on the power switch without executing the RAM clear prior to the start of business. The inventor considered that an effect of attracting new customers could be obtained by effectively applying such a service in addition to the above-described novel playability.

  The present invention has been made in view of these problems, and its purpose is to provide a player with an attractive feeling and effectively increase the ability to attract customers by effectively providing a service using the gaming state immediately before the power is cut off. An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can handle such a situation.

  In order to solve the above-described problems, a ball game machine according to an aspect of the present invention is provided with a game board on which a game area is formed, and a predetermined position in the game area. A winning lottery means for executing a winning lottery for determining whether or not to shift to a special game that is more advantageous to the player than a normal game, triggered by entering the starting prize port, Special game control means for executing a special game when the winning / failing lottery is a win, and means for shifting a gaming state to one of a plurality of gaming states at a predetermined gaming state transition timing. Probability changing means for setting the probability that the next winning lottery is won after the end of the game until the predetermined first end is reached, and a predetermined second end after the end of the special game Start until the winning prize A specific game control means that includes an easy-to-enter state that makes the ease of entry higher than the normal entry state, and if the winning lottery is a win, the probability change means is higher than the probability that the means is not activated The first game state in which the probability changing means is activated with probability, the probability changing means is activated and the incoming ball changing means is inactive, and the probability changing means is inactive and the incoming ball changing means is inactive. The gaming state at that time is determined as the gaming state to be shifted to among the two gaming states and the third gaming state, which is a gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the first gaming state when the ball changing means is activated. A state that can be determined with a corresponding transition probability, and a determination unit that determines to shift to the second gaming state when the first end state is reached in the first gaming state, and a state in which the gaming state is specified Memorize information and power off The game state holding means for holding the state information stored at that time, and when the next power-on is performed after the power is turned off, the power is shut off based on the state information stored in the game state holding means. Activation control means for restoring the previous gaming state.

  In the case of winning in the first gaming state, the specific determining means is whether or not the probability changing means and the ball changing means are operated so as to shift to the first gaming state with a higher probability than to shift to the second gaming state or the third gaming state. In the case of winning in the second gaming state, whether or not the probability varying means and the ball varying means are activated so as to shift to the third gaming state with a higher probability than the probability of shifting to the first gaming state or the second gaming state. If the winning in the third gaming state is determined, the probability changing means and the ball changing means are set to shift to the third gaming state with a higher probability than the probability of shifting to the first gaming state or the second gaming state after the special game. Determine whether to operate.

  The activation control means causes a specific control target to operate in a manner different from the normal appearance according to the state information stored in the gaming state holding means, when the next power-on is performed after the power is turned off. Thus, the control that suggests from which state the gaming state is started is executed.

  Here, the “first end”, which is the end of the probability fluctuation state, may be defined by, for example, the number of symbol fluctuations (variation period) displayed in a variable manner to indicate the result of the lottery determination or by the time. May be. The “second end”, which is the end of the easy entry state, may be defined by, for example, the number of symbol variations (variation period) or may be defined by time. In the “entry easy state”, the ease of entering the start winning opening is higher than the normal entering state, and thus the frequency of winning the winning ball by entering the starting winning opening is also increased. Therefore, it can be said that there is a high possibility that the number of balls that can be acquired is higher than that in the normal entry state, as long as the game can be advanced while suppressing the decrease of the possession balls. The “specific control object” can be set from various control objects that operate in the game process, such as an accessory or an effect display. The “specific control target” may be a control target common to each gaming state, or specialized in any gaming state, such as a control target unique to the first gaming state or a control target with high control frequency. It may be a controlled object. “Suggesting which game state is to be started from” may indicate which game state is to be started from, and from which progress state of any game state is started (that is, It may indicate how much the gaming state has progressed).

  In this aspect, in order to shift to the third gaming state where the profit is easily entered and the profit is relatively increased, first, the first gaming state that is the probability variation state is shifted to the second gaming state that is the normal probability state. It becomes a shortcut. That is, in the first gaming state in which the probability fluctuation state that should be advantageous to the player is maintained, it is not advantageous to the player. The anomalous gaming nature of passing through the process of shifting to the second gaming state, which is the state, is assumed. In order to shift from the first gaming state to the second gaming state, the player either wins a hit that does not involve the transition to the probability variation state or until the end of the probability variation state (that is, the first termination) is reached. It is necessary to prevent hits. In the following description, for the sake of convenience, the hit with the transition to the probability fluctuation state (the hit for operating the probability fluctuation means) is also referred to as the “probability hit”, and the hit without the transition to the probability fluctuation state (the probability fluctuation means is "Non-acting hit" is also called "non-probable hit".

  According to this aspect, when the next power is turned on after the power is turned off, the specific control target performs an operation in accordance with the gaming state at the time of turning off the power. For this reason, the player can predict from which state the game will start by looking at the operation mode of the controlled object, and can select a gaming machine that seems to be advantageous. . By installing such gaming machines in the game hall, players can gather to quickly acquire advantageous gaming machines. Since the state at the time of power-off is stored, the hall side can grasp from which progress state of which game state the game is started. For this reason, for example, a gaming machine that is started from a particularly advantageous gaming state or advantageous progressing state can be appealed as an event table at the start of business, and a great effect of attracting customers can be expected.

  The special game control means is likely to execute a special game with a relatively small profit in the case of winning in the first gaming state among a plurality of types of special games having different profits that can be obtained by the player, In the case of winning in the third gaming state, it may be highly likely to execute a special game with a relatively large profit. In this case, in the first gaming state, it is highly possible that only a special game with a small profit will be executed and no substantial profit will be obtained even if the winnings appear continuously. It will continue to be a state where special games with large numbers are likely to be repeated.

  According to this aspect, since the difference in the profit state between the first gaming state and the third gaming state is further increased, the advantage of quickly exiting the first gaming state and shifting to the third gaming state is enhanced. As a result, starting a game from an advantageous state after turning on the power leads to a great benefit, and the player's attention to the action of a specific control object becomes more remarkable. As a result, a greater effect of attracting customers can be expected.

  The gaming state holding means stores state information that can specify the state at the time of power interruption during the period until the first end when the power is cut off in the first gaming state, and the activation control means stores the first gaming state. It may be suggested from which state in the first gaming state the game is resumed by varying the operation of the controlled object in accordance with the range of the remaining period from the power shutdown to the first end. The “state information” here may be information capable of determining the remaining period until the first end. As described above, when the first final period is defined by the number of symbol fluctuations, the activation control means may suggest the number of fluctuations since the transition to the first gaming state as the number of times information at the time of interruption. Alternatively, the remaining number of times until the first end may be suggested.

  In other words, as described above, since the expiration of the first term is one of the conditions for shifting from the first gaming state to the second gaming state, whether or not the game can be advantageously advanced depending on its length Is affected. For this reason, when the power supply is shut off in a state in which the period has progressed to some extent in the first game state, the game is resumed from the state in which the period has progressed when the next power is turned on. Specifically, even if the game is started again from the first game state when the power is turned on next time, if the probability change does not occur in the remaining period until the first end, the game state is quickly shifted to the second game state. In some cases, it is also assumed that the power is cut off immediately before reaching the first end in the first gaming state, and in this case, the player who started the game at the next power-on has no effort in the second game. It becomes possible to shift to the state and thus the third gaming state. The player can infer from which state the gaming state starts by looking at the operation of the controlled object, and can select a gaming machine that seems to be advantageous.

  The activation control means executes an operation confirmation process for confirming the normal operation of the gaming machine including the operation of a specific control target when the power is turned on based on a predetermined operation confirmation condition, and executes the operation confirmation process when the power is turned on. As a part of the operation of a specific control target performed in the process, an operation that suggests from which state the gaming state is started may be performed.

  According to this aspect, as part of the operation confirmation process that is normally performed for a specific control target when the power is turned on, an operation that suggests from which state the gaming state is started is incorporated. That is, the operation that suggests the gaming state is not provided completely independently of the normal control process, but is executed as a part of the process that is essentially performed, so that the software design is simplified.

  Operation input means for receiving external operation input may be further provided. The activation control means may execute control suggesting from which state the gaming state is started in a predetermined limited period triggered by a predetermined operation input made via the operation input means. Good. Here, the “external operation input” may be an operation input via a specific switch provided in the gaming machine, or may be an input from an external control device via a predetermined communication line. For example, the power may be turned on while a specific button is pressed. Such a setting is particularly preferable when a store clerk at an amusement store makes an operation input. Also, a specific input called a “hidden command” may be made. Such a setting is particularly preferable when the player performs an operation input. Here, the “hidden command” may be an operation method different from a normal procedure that is not operated during the game (not set as an operation method of the game process). The “limited period” may be set by a time from a specific time point such as power-on. Alternatively, symbol variation (or the number of variations) may be set as a parameter, for example, from a specific time point to the beginning of symbol variation.

  According to this aspect, the suggestion control described above is not always executed every time the power is turned on, but is triggered by the input of a specific external operation input. In other words, if there is no need to execute suggestion control, it is not necessary to perform a specific external operation input, and flexible setting according to the situation can be performed. In addition, unnecessary control can be omitted to reduce the processing load on the gaming machine.

  As a start winning opening, a first start winning opening and a second start provided at a position that is different from the first starting winning opening and is difficult to enter from the first starting winning opening in a normal state. And a winning opening. The entry variation means sets the ease of entry into the second start winning opening in the easy entry state to be higher than the ease of entry into the first start prize opening, and the special game control means Among multiple types of special games with different profits that can be earned, if the hit is triggered by entering the first starting prize opening, then entering the second starting prize opening If a special game with a relatively low profit is executed with a higher probability than the hit, and the hit is triggered by entering the second starting prize opening, entering the first starting prize opening A special game with a relatively large profit may be executed with a higher probability than a hit triggered by a ball. In particular, in the first gaming state and the second gaming state, the first starting prize opening becomes easier to enter, and in the third gaming state, the second starting prize opening becomes easier to enter. May be.

  According to this aspect, when the game is shifted to the third gaming state and enters the easy entering state, a relatively large profit can be obtained by aiming to enter the second start winning opening with improved entry ease. It will be obtained. That is, in the third gaming state where the profit state is high, the difference in the profit state between the first gaming state and the third gaming state is further increased by further increasing the profit state of the special game. For this reason, the superiority of exiting from the first gaming state and shifting to the third gaming state is enhanced. As a result, starting a game from an advantageous state after turning on the power leads to a greater profit, and the player's attention to the action of a specific control object becomes even more remarkable.

  It should be noted that any combination of the above-described constituent elements, or the constituent elements and expressions of the present invention may be mutually replaced between methods, apparatuses, systems, computer programs, recording media storing computer programs, data structures, etc. This is effective as an embodiment of the present invention.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine capable of giving a player an attractive feeling and effectively increasing the ability to attract customers by effectively performing a service using the gaming state immediately before the power is cut off.

It is a figure which shows the basic structure in the front side of a pachinko game machine. It is a figure which shows the basic structure in the back side of a pachinko game machine. It is a figure which shows the functional block of the pachinko game machine in a present Example. It is a figure which shows typically a success / failure determination table. It is a state transition diagram which shows the transition mode of the gaming state made between a normal mode, a preparation mode, and a continuous change mode. It is a figure which shows typically the 1st symbol determination table referred when the result of a success / failure lottery corresponds to the big hit. It is a figure which shows typically the 2nd symbol determination table referred when the frequency | count per continuation reaches the probability variation continuous upper limit frequency | count. It is a figure which shows typically the 3rd symbol determination table referred when the frequency | count per continuous reaches the number of easy entrance continuous upper limits. It is a figure which shows typically the 4th symbol determination table referred when the result of a lottery lottery corresponds to losing. It is a figure which shows the specific example of suggestion control which suggests the game state at the time of power activation. It is a data structure figure of the state setting table referred when selecting the open state of the movable accessory as suggestion control. It is a flowchart which shows the basic operation | movement process in a pachinko game machine. 13 is a flowchart showing in detail a power-on process of S10 in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the process at the time of a power failure in S20 of FIG. 13 in detail. It is a flowchart which shows the normal game control process of S14 in FIG. 12 in detail. It is a flowchart which shows in detail the game state determination process of S35 and S43 in FIG. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing in detail a change end process of S50 in FIG. 15; FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the special game of S16 in FIG. 12 in detail. It is a data structure figure of the state setting table which concerns on a modification. It is a figure which shows the basic structure in the front side of the pachinko game machine in Example 2. FIG. It is a figure which shows the basic structure in the front side of the pachinko game machine in Example 3. FIG.

Example 1
The pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment has a gaming property in which a plurality of games corresponding to the conventional type 1 pachinko gaming machine are mixed. In order to achieve both the first game and the second game as the plurality of games, the pachinko gaming machine according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of start winning openings, a plurality of special symbol display devices, and a plurality of holding lamps. Is provided. When a game ball enters the first start prize opening or the second start prize opening, the first lottery and the second lottery are executed, respectively, and if the lottery result is a “hit”, the big prize opening is opened and closed. A special game that repeats is started. When a big prize opening is opened and a game ball enters, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out each time, and the player can obtain a large profit.

  If the big hit is a hit accompanied by a probability change, the probability change state (also referred to as “probability change state”) is entered after the end of the special game. In addition, if the big hit is a hit accompanied by the easy entry state, the easy entry state is entered after the special game ends. As a result, there are three game states: a first game state that is in a probable state and is not easy to enter, a second game state that is not in a probable state and is not easy to enter, and a third game state that is in an easy state of entry. The game progresses by transitioning between these gaming states. The third gaming state includes both a case where the state is a probability variation state and a case where the state is not a probability variation state. It should be noted that a state that is not the probability variation state is also referred to as a non-probability variation state or a normal probability state, and a state that is not the easy entry state is also referred to as a non-entrance easy state or a normal entry state.

  A jackpot with probability variation occurs with a higher probability than a jackpot without probability variation. The possibility that the big hit will be easy to enter depends on the gaming state at the time of winning. In the special game, a special game in which many balls can be obtained as usual and a special game in which virtually no balls can be obtained are executed. The possibility that the special game will be a special game with a lot of balls varies depending on the game state at the time of winning and which start winning opening is entered. Specifically, in the case of a jackpot triggered by entering the first starting prize opening, it becomes a special game in which almost no balls can be obtained, and in the case of a jackpot triggered by entering the second starting prize opening Will be a special game with many games. The first gaming state is the most unfavorable gaming state because it is highly possible that a special game in which the player cannot expect to enter the second start winning opening due to the easy entry state and hardly get the ball will occur. On the other hand, in the third game state, it is possible to expect to enter the second start winning opening due to the easy entry state, and it is most likely that the state will be repeated afterwards as a special game that can acquire many balls. This is an advantageous gaming state. Like the first gaming state, the second gaming state cannot be expected to enter the second starting winning opening in the easy entry state, and there is a high possibility that a special game in which almost no balls can be obtained will occur. The big hit triggered by entering the first start winning opening in the two gaming state is given the easy entering state, which has the advantage of easily shifting to the third gaming state. In terms of game play, the first game state is treated as a “normal mode” as a de facto initial state, and the third game state is taken as a “continuous mode”, which is a state in which there is a high possibility that a special game with a lot of balls will be continuously generated. . The second gaming state is positioned as a “preparation mode” that is a state in which it is easy to shift to the “continuous mode”.

  In such gameability, in the first gaming state, which is in a probable variation state that should be advantageous, a game cannot be obtained, which is disadvantageous to the player. In order to develop the gaming state more advantageously, a process of shifting to the second gaming state, which is the normal probability state, is once passed. In order to shift from the first gaming state to the second gaming state, it is necessary for the player to win a hit that is not accompanied by a transition to the probability changing state or to prevent a hit from occurring until the end of the probability changing state is reached. In this embodiment, since the possibility of the former is low, it is basically necessary to advance the game aiming at the latter. In such gaming, the gaming state at the time of power-on becomes a problem. That is, unless the power is turned on through a special operation called “RAM clear”, the game state saved before the power is turned off is restored at the next power-on. Therefore, when the power supply is cut off in the first gaming state, the gaming state at the time of the power interruption affects the possibility of reaching the first final stage, which is of great concern to the player. In this example, paying attention to this point, when the power is turned on, the player is aware that the game will start from the state before the power is turned off, and then the power on which game state will be started from which state. It is suggested by the movement of the movable object at the time. Thereby, it is made possible to increase the customer suction power of the amusement shop. Hereinafter, such a configuration will be described.

  FIG. 1 shows a basic structure on the front side of a pachinko gaming machine. The pachinko gaming machine 10 is mainly composed of a gaming machine frame and a gaming board. The gaming machine frame of the pachinko gaming machine 10 includes an outer frame 11, a front frame 12, a transparent plate 13, a door 14, an upper ball dish 15, a lower ball dish 16, and a launch handle 17. The outer frame 11 has an opening and is a frame for fixing the pachinko gaming machine 10 to a position where it should be installed. The front frame 12 is a frame body that aligns with the opening portion of the outer frame 11, and is attached to the outer frame 11 so as to be opened and closed by a hinge mechanism (not shown). The front frame 12 includes a mechanism for launching a game ball, a mechanism for detachably storing a game board, a mechanism for guiding or collecting the game ball, and the like.

  The transparent plate 13 is made of glass or the like and is supported by the door 14. The door 14 is attached to the front frame 12 so as to be openable and closable by a hinge mechanism (not shown). The upper ball tray 15 has mechanisms such as storage of game balls, delivery of game balls to the launch rail, and extraction of game balls to the lower ball tray 16. The lower ball tray 16 has a mechanism for storing and extracting game balls. A speaker 18 is provided between the upper ball tray 15 and the lower ball tray 16, and a sound effect corresponding to the gaming state or the like is output by means for controlling an effect described later.

  The game board 50 has an out port 58, a first special symbol display device 70, a second special symbol display device 71, an effect display device 60, and a first start on a game area 52 defined by the outer rail 54 and the inner rail 56. Includes a winning opening (hereinafter referred to as “first starting opening”) 62, a second starting winning opening (hereinafter referred to as “second starting opening”) 63, a center decoration 64, a large winning opening 91, an operation opening 68, and a general winning opening 72. . Furthermore, in the game area 52, a plurality of mechanisms such as a game nail and a windmill (not shown) are installed.

  The first start port 62 and the second start port 63 are arranged vertically below the center decoration 64 in the game area 52. The first start port 62 is provided as a start winning port corresponding to the first game, and the second start port 63 is provided as a start winning port corresponding to the second game. The lottery determination is a lottery for determining whether or not to shift to a special game that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game, and is executed whenever there is a ball entering the first start port 62 or the second start port 63. The

  The first start port 62 includes a start winning detection device 74. The start winning detection device 74 is a sensor that detects the entry of a game ball into the first start port 62, and generates first start winning information indicating the winning at the time of entering. The second start port 63 includes a start winning detection device 75, a normal electric combination 65 (so-called electric tulip) that is an expansion mechanism, and a normal electric combination solenoid 76 for opening and closing the normal electric combination 65. The start winning detection device 75 is a sensor that detects the entry of a game ball into the second start port 63, and generates second start winning information indicating the winning at the time of entering.

  When the ordinary electric accessory 65 is expanded by the driving force of the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 76, the ease of entering the second starting port 63 is increased. The opening time of the ordinary electric accessory 65 is about 0.2 seconds in the normal state, but the opening time of the ordinary electric accessory 65 is about 6 seconds in the easy entry state. Therefore, the game ball can easily enter the second starting port 63.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in the figure, when the ordinary electric accessory 65 is not expanded, the second starting port 63 is shielded by the first starting port 62 immediately above it, and its entry is restricted. It becomes an aspect. In addition, unless the easy-to-enter state, the frequency of expansion of the ordinary electric accessory 65 is low, so that it is hardly possible to enter the second starting port 63. As described above, it is more difficult to enter the second start port 63 than to enter the first start port 62 in the first game state and the second game state that are not easy to enter. On the other hand, in the third gaming state, which is the easy entry state, the ordinary electric accessory 65 is expanded frequently and long, thereby increasing the ease of entering the second starting port 63, It is easier to enter the second starting port 63 than to enter the first starting port 62. For this reason, in the state where the ease of entering the second starting port 63 is low, the first starting port 62 is mainly entered, and in the state where the entering ease of the second starting port 63 is increased, the second starting port 63 is mainly used. 2 It becomes game nature to enter the starting port 63.

  The general winning opening 72 includes a general winning detecting device 73 for detecting the entering of a game ball. The general winning detection device 73 is a sensor that detects the entry of a game ball into the general winning opening 72, and generates general winning information indicating the winning at the time of winning.

  The big prize opening 91 is provided as a big prize opening common to the first game and the second game, and a prize detection device 77 for detecting the entry of the game ball and the big prize opening 91 are expanded. The large winning opening solenoid 78 is provided. The winning detection device 77 is a sensor that detects the entry of a game ball into the big winning opening 91 and generates big winning opening winning information indicating the winning at the time of winning. The special winning opening 91 is a horizontal rectangular winning opening that is opened as a “big hit” in a special game that starts when the first special symbol 192 or the second special symbol 193 stops in a predetermined manner. The big winning opening 91 is provided at a position above the out opening 58, for example. The number of the big prize winning openings 91 is not limited to a configuration in which only one is installed, and a plurality of big winning prize openings 91 may be installed and used depending on the gaming state or the like. The winning detection device 77 of the big winning opening 91 includes a sensor for detecting the passage of the game ball.

  A first special symbol display device 70 corresponding to the first game and a second special symbol display device 71 corresponding to the second game are juxtaposed on the left and lower sides of the game area 52, and the first special symbol 192 and Changes in the second special symbol 193 are displayed. An effect display device 60 is provided substantially at the center of the game area 52, and displays changes in the effect image including the decorative symbol 190 linked to the first special symbol 192 or the second special symbol 193. Hereinafter, such display is referred to as “design variation” or “variation display”.

  The first special symbol 192 is a symbol corresponding to the result of the first lottery performed when the game ball enters the first start port 62, and its variation display is stopped in a predetermined hit mode. Sometimes a big hit as a special game occurs. The second special symbol 193 is a symbol corresponding to the result of the second lottery performed when the game ball enters the second starting port 63, and its variation display is stopped in a predetermined hit mode. Sometimes a big hit as a special game occurs. The 1st special symbol display device 70 and the 2nd special symbol display device 71 are display devices comprised by 7 segment LED, for example. In the present embodiment, the first special symbol 192 and the second special symbol 193 are numbers or symbols of “0” to “9”, which are the winning design aspects, or a symbol “−”, which is an extraordinary design aspect. It is represented by These numbers or symbols are switched one after another at a high speed and displayed on the first special symbol display device 70 and the second special symbol display device 71, whereby the symbol variation display of the first special symbol 192 and the second special symbol 193 is performed. Realized. The form of the first special symbol 192 and the second special symbol 193 is not limited to the above numbers or symbols, and may be letters such as English letters, or may be formed by a combination of segments constituting the 7-segment LED. In general, it may be a meaningless symbol. Further, the 7-segment LED may be composed of 8 segments including 7 segments forming “eight-letter shape” and 1 segment representing “dot”. In this case, a numerical value for 8 bits can be expressed by combining 8 segments. Further, the first special symbol display device 70 and the second special symbol display device 71 are made of LED dot arrays that are not 7-segment LEDs, and a plurality of types of first special symbols 192 and 2 A special symbol 193 may be expressed.

  The effect display device 60 is a display device that includes a liquid crystal display that displays the decorative symbol 190 in a manner linked with the variable display of the first special symbol 192 or the second special symbol 193. The decorative symbol 190 is a symbol for visually rendering the lottery result display indicated by the first special symbol 192 and the second special symbol 193. The effect display device 60 displays, as the decorative symbol 190, for example, a plurality of rows of moving images of symbol variation simulating a slot machine game in the central area of the screen. In the present embodiment, symbols composed of numbers and symbols of “0” to “9” are displayed in three columns and changed, and a winning combination or a failure is indicated by three symbol combinations that are finally stopped and displayed. . Each of the plurality of symbols constituting the decorative symbol 190 is composed of numbers, characters, or symbols that are decorated with colors or patterns. You may comprise in the form which adds a different pattern for every pattern and integrates it. This pattern is a pattern on which a motif related to the theme of decoration or production set for the model of the pachinko gaming machine 10 is drawn, and for example, a pattern on which a character of a person or an animal is drawn may be used. The decorative pattern 190 is switched according to the development of the effect between the case where the design that includes the design is variably displayed and the case where the design is separated and only the numbers, characters, and symbols are variably displayed. It may be a configuration. On the background of the variation display of the decoration symbol 190, a moving image having a staging effect related to the theme of decoration or production set for the model of the pachinko gaming machine 10 is displayed in conjunction with the symbol variation.

  The effect display device 60 is configured by a high-definition dot matrix type display device such as a liquid crystal display in this embodiment, but may be configured by a mechanical display unit such as a drum rotation type or a display unit such as an LED matrix type. Good. Since the first special symbol 192 and the second special symbol 193 do not necessarily have a role of production, in this embodiment, the first special symbol display device 70 and the second special symbol at the lower left of the production display device 60 are used. The symbol display device 71 displays the image in an inconspicuous size. However, in the case of adopting a technique in which the special symbol itself has an effect role to express without using the decorative symbol, the special symbol may be displayed on the liquid crystal display instead of the 7-segment LED.

  The operation port 68 is provided at the left side position of the game board 50. The operation port 68 includes a passage detection device 69. The passage detection device 69 is a sensor that detects the passage of the game ball to the operation port 68, and generates passage information indicating the passage at the time of passage. The passing of the game ball to the operation port 68 triggers an open lottery for determining whether or not to expand the ordinary electric accessory 65. When the game ball passes through the operation port 68, a normal symbol, which is a symbol indicating the result of the open lottery, is variably displayed on the normal symbol display device 59. Therefore, the open lottery is also called “ordinary symbol lottery”. The normal symbol display device 59 in this embodiment is composed of two lamps for convenience, and the display state of the normal symbols is expressed by which of these lamps is lit. For example, when the first lamp is turned off and the second lamp is hit, the normal symbol fluctuation display is expressed by alternately turning on and off, and finally one of the lights is turned on. A stop symbol of a normal symbol is expressed by being stopped in the state. The normal symbol display device 59 is provided on the lower right side of the effect display device 60. After a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the change, the normal symbol change display stops. At this time, in the normal entry state, the normal symbol stops at the winning symbol with a low probability of about 1/256, for example, and in the easy entry state, the normal symbol is a hit symbol with a high probability of about 250/256, for example. Stop. When the normal symbol stops at the winning symbol, the normal electric accessory 65 is expanded for a predetermined time. The opening time of the ordinary electric accessory 65 is, for example, 0.2 seconds in the normal state, and 6 seconds in the easy entry state. The variation time of the normal symbol is, for example, 30 to 60 seconds in the normal state, and 2 seconds in the easy entry state. As described above, the ease of entering the second starting port 63 is improved by using the three functions of fluctuation of the probability of hitting the normal symbol, extension of the opening time of the ordinary electric accessory 65, and reduction of the fluctuation time of the normal symbol. In the present embodiment, a configuration for increasing is employed. However, as a modification, it is possible to use one or two of these three functions to increase the ease of entering the second starting port 63. Thus, even if only a part of the three functions is used, it is possible to improve the ease of entering the second starting port 63. In addition, as will be described later, in this embodiment, a special symbol variation time shortening function called “shortening time” is further implemented in the easy entry state, but in a modified example, the special symbol is shortened in the easy entry state. It may be a specification that does not.

  A center ornament 64 is provided around the effect display device 60. The center decoration 64 has functions such as a flow path of the game ball, protection of the effect display device 60, and decoration. A first special symbol hold display device 20 and a second special symbol hold display device 21 are provided at the lower left portion of the game area 52, and a normal symbol display device is provided at the lower right portion of the game area 52 which is a symmetrical position. A normal symbol hold display device 22 is provided under 59.

  Game effect lamps 90 are provided above and below the center ornament 64, and play a role of production by blinking or the like. A first special symbol holding display device 20 corresponding to the first game is provided below the first special symbol display device 70, and a second corresponding to the second game is provided below the second special symbol display device 71. A special symbol hold display device 21 is provided. The first special symbol hold display device 20 is composed of two lamps, and displays the hold number of the winning lottery value in the first game according to the number of lights or the number of blinks. The number of hold of the winning / failing lottery value in the first special symbol hold display device 20 is the number of lottery results won to the first starting port 62 during the fluctuation of the first special symbol 192 or during the execution of the special game. Indicates the number of winning balls that have not been executed yet. The second special symbol hold display device 21 is also composed of two lamps, and displays the hold number of the winning lottery value in the second game by the number of lights or the number of blinks. The number of hold of the winning / failing lottery value in the second special symbol hold display device 21 is the number of lottery results won to the second starting port 63 during the fluctuation of the second special symbol 193 or during the execution of the special game. Indicates the number of winning balls that have not been executed yet.

  When the number of lottery holds is three, the symbol variation time in the case of a loss is shortened from the normal time in order to increase game efficiency (hereinafter also referred to as “shortening variation”). Similarly, when the number of pending lottery holds is 4, in order to further increase the game efficiency, the symbol variation time in the case of losing is further shortened than in the case of the above 3 (hereinafter also referred to as “super shortened variation”). ).

  The normal symbol hold display device 22 is also composed of two lamps, and displays the number of normal symbol fluctuations held depending on the number of lighting or blinking. The number of normal symbol fluctuations held is the number of game balls that have passed through the operation port 68 during the fluctuation of the normal symbol 195, and indicates the number of normal symbol lotteries for which the fluctuation of the normal symbol 195 has not yet been executed.

  Game effect lamps 90 are respectively provided above and below the effect display device 60. The operation button 82 is an operation input unit that is operated by the player to input a predetermined instruction to the gaming machine, and changes are made to the contents of the effect according to the contents of the operation input. The operation button 82 is provided on the outer wall surface near the upper ball tray 15. Although the operation button 82 in this embodiment is composed of one button, it may be composed of a plurality of buttons and direction instruction buttons such as a cross key. The movable accessory 140 is a movable object whose operation is controlled in conjunction with the effect, and plays an effect role by the operation. For example, the movable accessory 140 operates in response to an operation input via the operation button 82 by the player.

  An outline of a game method and a control flow performed in the above configuration will be described. When the player turns the launch handle 17 by hand, the game balls stored in the upper ball tray 15 are guided one by one to the inner rail 56 and the outer rail 54 with a strength corresponding to the turning angle, thereby playing the game area. To 52. When the player fixes the rotation position of the firing handle 17 by hand, the game ball is repeatedly fired at regular time intervals. The game ball launched to the upper part of the game area 52 falls in a direction according to the way of hitting while hitting a plurality of game nails and windmills. When a game ball is dropped into each of the general winning opening 72, the first starting opening 62, the second starting opening 63, and the big winning opening 91, the winning ball corresponding to the type of the winning opening is the upper ball tray 15 or lower It is paid out to the ball tray 16. A game ball dropped into each winning hole such as the general winning hole 72 is processed as a safe ball, and a game ball dropped into the out hole 58 is processed as an out ball. Each winning opening includes a gate type through which a game ball passes. In this application, “incoming”, “entering”, and “winning” include “passing”.

  When entering the first starting port 62 or the second starting port 63, the first special symbol display device 70, the second special symbol display device 71, and the effect display device 60 use the first special symbol 192, the second special symbol 193, and The decorative symbol 190 is displayed in a variable manner. The variable display of the first special symbol 192, the second special symbol 193, and the decorative symbol 190 is stopped after the lapse of the variable display time determined prior to display. The first special symbol 192 and the second special symbol 193 are variably displayed according to a variation pattern in which the variation mode from the variation start to the stop is determined. The decorative symbol 190 is variably displayed according to a variation effect pattern in which a variation mode from the start to the end of the variation is determined. A plurality of types of variation patterns and variation production patterns are prepared, and each has various variation times. While the first special symbol 192 and the second special symbol 193 are variably displayed according to the variation pattern, the decorative symbol 190 is variably displayed according to the variation effect pattern having the same variation time. In the variation pattern, a variation display time is defined for each pattern as an end condition of the symbol variation, and the variation of the first special symbol 192, the second special symbol 193, and the decorative symbol 190 occurs when the variation display time elapses. Stopped.

  As a variation display of the decorative symbol 190, first, as the variation starts, the symbols are varied in all three columns like the reel rotation of the slot machine, and when it approaches the variation end timing, it is stopped one by one as a final stop mode. The symbol combination is displayed. When the first special symbol 192, the second special symbol 193, and the decorative symbol 190 at the time of the stop are in a stop mode indicating a big hit, the game shifts to a special game that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game. The opening / closing operation of the winning opening 91 is started. The stop mode of the decorative symbol 190 indicating a big hit is, for example, a combination mode in which the types of three symbols match.

  The variation effect pattern includes a normal disappointing effect pattern when displaying an unacceptable symbol combination and a reach when displaying an unacceptable symbol combination through a reach state that is a big hit if one more symbols are aligned. An outright effect pattern and a reach jackpot effect pattern for displaying a jackpot symbol combination through the reach state are included. In particular, the patterns when reaching the reach state include patterns with various long and short fluctuation times. Reach patterns with relatively short fluctuation times are called “normal reach”, and reach patterns with long fluctuation times are called “super reach”. ".

  There are two types of special games, normal special games and shortened special games, and there is a large difference in the profits of the winning balls. Usually, the special game is started by displaying an effect screen called a start demonstration time. After the start demonstration time is displayed on the screen, the grand prize winning opening 91 is opened, and after the opening lasts for about 30 seconds, or after 9 or more game balls are dropped, the game is closed once. From such opening to closing of the big winning opening 91 is basically called a unit game, but it may be repeated a plurality of times for a short time during one unit game. After the opening / closing of the special winning opening 91 or the unit game is repeated a predetermined number of times, for example, eight times, the special special game is ended by displaying an effect screen called an end demonstration time. In special games, it is possible to expect more than 9 balls per unit game, and you can earn enough prize balls (also called “outs”) with 8 unit games. Is obtained.

  On the other hand, in the shortened special game, there is no start demonstration time and end demonstration time, and the grand prize winning opening 91 is opened for 0.2 seconds in one unit game. This unit game is repeated twice to complete the shortened special game. In the shortened special game, it is only possible to repeat the opening of the grand prize winning opening 91 twice in a very short time, so it is almost impossible to enter the big winning prize winning opening 91 and the special game is substantially equal to zero. is there.

  In the normal game after the end of the special game, the easy entry state, which is one of the specific games, is started. In the easy-to-enter state, the probability that the open lottery will be won is higher than normal, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened from the normal state, and the expansion time of the normal electric accessory 65 is longer than the normal state. Perform open extension. As described above, in the easy entry state, the possibility that the number of fluctuations of the normal symbol per certain time increases as compared to the normal state increases, and the ease of entering the second start opening 63 also increases. There is a high possibility that the number of balls entering 63 will increase. Therefore, in the easy entry state, the chance to obtain a winning ball by entering the second starting port 63 increases, so that it is possible to keep playing with little or no increase in the number of possessions. It becomes. In the easy-to-enter state, the variation time of the first special symbol 192, the second special symbol 193, and the decorative symbol 190 is further shortened compared to the normal state. The variation time of the first special symbol 192, the second special symbol 193, and the decorative symbol 190 is returned to the original variation time after a predetermined number of variations, for example, 30 variations are displayed, but reaches the number of variations. If a big hit occurs before, the easy-to-enter state is once ended. Since the variation time of the first special symbol 192, the second special symbol 193, and the decorative symbol 190 is shortened in the easy entry state, the big hit is larger than in the normal state where the symbol variation is performed with the normal variation time. The time until occurrence can be shortened, and the ease of obtaining a big hit can be relatively increased.

  When a special game occurs and the winning stop symbol at that time is in a specific mode, probability change, which is one of the specific games, is further started after the special game ends. During the probability change, the winning lottery with a higher probability of winning than the normal probability state is performed, and a new special game can be generated relatively early.

  In this embodiment, a shortened special game is executed for the big hit that occurs when the ball enters the first start port 62, and the big hit that occurs when the ball enters the second start port 63 is triggered. Usually performs special games. In the normal mode and the preparation mode, since it is not easy to enter the ball, it is hardly expected to enter the second starting port 63, and as a result, there is a high possibility that a shortened special game without a ball will be executed. In the continuous mode, since it is easy to enter the ball, it is possible to expect to enter the second starting port 63, and as a result, there is a high possibility that a normal special game that provides a lot of balls is executed.

  In the normal mode and the preparation mode, the second starting port 63 does not substantially enter the ball unless the ordinary electric accessory 65 is expanded.

  FIG. 2 shows a basic structure on the back side of the pachinko gaming machine. The power switch 40 is a switch for turning on / off the power of the pachinko gaming machine 10. When the game clerk turns on the power switch 40 while pressing down the RAM clear switch 41, the RAM clear, which is a control that does not intentionally restore the gaming state before the power is shut off, is executed. The main board 102 controls the overall operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10 and processes all game operations such as lottery when winning the first start port 62 and the second start port 63 in particular. The sub board 104 includes a liquid crystal unit 42, controls display contents on the effect display device 60, and changes display contents according to a lottery result by the main board 102 in particular. The main board 102 and the sub board 104 constitute a game control device 100. The back setting mechanism 39 includes a prize ball tank 44, a flow path for prize balls, a payout unit 43 for delivering prize balls. The payout unit 43 pays out the game balls supplied from the winning ball tank 44 to the upper ball tray 15 in accordance with winning in each winning opening. The payout control board 45 controls the payout operation by the payout unit 43. The launching device 46 launches the stored balls in the upper ball tray 15 to the game area 52 one by one. The launch control board 47 controls the launch operation of the launch device 46. The power supply unit 48 supplies power to each part of the pachinko gaming machine 10.

  FIG. 3 shows functional blocks of the pachinko gaming machine 10 in this embodiment. In the pachinko gaming machine 10, the game control device 100 includes a first start port 62, a second start port 63, a big winning port 91, a general winning port 72, an operating port 68, a first special symbol display device 70, and a second special symbol. The display device 71, the effect display device 60, the normal symbol display device 59, the operation button 82, the speaker 18, the game effect lamp 90, and the power supply unit 48 are electrically connected to each other, and can transmit and receive various control signals. . The game control device 100 is supplied with power from the power supply unit 48 when the power switch 40 is turned on, and is cut off from the power supply unit 48 when turned off. The game control apparatus 100 receives a signal indicating that from the power supply unit 48 when the power switch 40 is turned on or off, and also receives a signal indicating that from the power supply unit 48 when the RAM clear switch 41 is turned on. . The game control apparatus 100 controls not only the basic operation of the game but also the staging operations such as the symbol variation display, the movable accessory 140, and the electric decoration. The game control device 100 is configured in such a manner that functions are shared between a main board 102 that controls the overall operation of the pachinko gaming machine 10 including basic operations of the game, and a sub board 104 that controls design effects and the like. The game control device 100 is configured by hardware including elements such as a ROM and a RAM for storing data and programs, and a CPU used for arithmetic processing.

  In the present embodiment, the main board 102 includes the entrance determination means 110, the first lottery means 126, the second lottery means 128, the normal drawing lottery means 129, the hold control means 116, the main display control means 118, the special game control means 120, Specific determination means 121, specific game control means 122, opening / closing control means 124, special figure adjustment means 152, game state holding means 158, and power interruption return control means 160 are provided. The sub-board 104 in this embodiment includes a pattern storage unit 130, a design mode determination unit 131, an effect determination unit 132, an effect display control unit 134, an accessory control unit 136, and an operation check execution unit 138. Each functional block included in the main board 102 may be configured such that any one of the functional blocks is mounted on the sub board 104 instead of the main board 102. Similarly, each functional block included in the sub-board 104 may be configured such that any one of them is mounted on the main board 102 instead of the sub-board 104.

  However, since data transmission / reception between the main board 102 and the sub board 104 is unidirectional from the main board 102 to the sub board 104, each operation is performed so that the entire operation is realized by such data transmission / reception in one direction. The configuration is arranged on the main board 102 and the sub board 104. In this way, since the unidirectionality of data transmission from the main board 102 to the sub board 104 is maintained, data cannot be transmitted from the configuration included in the sub board 104 to the configuration included in the main board 102. It is not possible to request data transmission. Therefore, the information generated on the main board 102 cannot be referred to from the sub board 104 unless the main board 102 unilaterally transmits the information to the sub board 104.

  The entrance determination means 110 determines whether or not a game ball has entered each winning opening. When receiving the first start winning information, the winning determination means 110 determines that the game ball has won the first start port 62, and when receiving the second start winning information, the game ball has won the second start port 63. to decide. The winning determination means 110 determines that the game ball has won the big winning opening 91 when receiving the big winning opening winning information, and determines that the gaming ball has won the general winning opening 72 when receiving the general winning information. When receiving the passage information, the ball entering determination unit 110 determines that the game ball has passed through the operation port 68.

  The first lottery means 126 and the second lottery means 128 function as a success / failure lottery means. The first lottery means 126 includes a first lottery value acquisition means 112, a first winning / failing determining means 113, and a first pattern determining means 114, and the first lottery is performed as a winning / notting lottery corresponding to entering the first start port 62. Execute. The result of the first lottery is shown in the form of variable display of the first special symbol 192 on the first special symbol display device 70, and in the form of variable display of the decorative symbol 190 in the display area 194 of the effect display device 60. . The second lottery means 128 includes a second lottery value acquiring means 115, a second winning / failing determining means 117, and a second pattern determining means 119, and the second lottery is performed as a winning / losing lottery corresponding to entering the second starting port 63. Execute. The result of the second lottery is shown in the form of variable display of the second special symbol 193 on the second special symbol display device 71, and in the form of variable display of the decorative symbol 190 in the display area 194 of the effect display device 60. . When the first lottery means 126 and the second lottery means 128 start the symbol variation, the lottery result corresponding to the symbol variation is transmitted to the effect determining unit 132.

  The first lottery value acquisition means 112 acquires a random number value as the first winning / not-lotting value for the first lottery when the first start port 62 is entered. The second lottery value acquiring unit 115 acquires a random number value as the second winning / not determining lottery value for the second lottery when the ball enters the second start port 63. For example, the values acquired as the first winning / losing lottery value and the second winning / losing lottery value for the winning / losing lottery are acquired from a value range from “0” to “65535”. The “random number” in the present application may not be a mathematically generated random number, but may be a pseudo-random number generated by a hardware random number, a software random number, or the like. The values acquired as the first winning / losing lottery value and the second winning / losing lottery value are temporarily held by the holding control means 116. However, the lottery value is held within a range not exceeding the predetermined holding upper limit number.

  The first winning / failing determination unit 113 executes a determination of whether or not to shift to a special game that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game based on the first winning / failing lottery value. The second winning / failing determination means 117 executes a determination of whether or not to shift to the special game based on the second winning / failing lottery value.

  The first success / failure determination unit 113 and the second success / failure determination unit 117 hold a plurality of success / failure tables referred to in the determination of success / failure. In the plurality of success / failure tables, a determination result of winning or losing is associated with a winning / losing lottery value, and the probability of success / failure is determined according to the associated winning range setting. The first success / failure determination means 113 and the second success / failure determination means 117 refer to a success / failure table for determination of success / failure based on a normal hit probability in the normal probability state, and whether or not the hit probability is higher than the normal probability in the probability variation state. Browse the table. The first winning / failing determining means 113 and the second winning / failing determining means 117 refer to any of the plurality of winning / failing tables to determine whether or not the winning lottery value is a win.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically showing the success / failure determination table. The success / failure determination table in this figure associates determination results of big hits and misses with winning / failure lottery values, and there are different correspondences depending on whether or not the gaming state at the time of winning is a probable change state. Referenced. The hit probability is determined according to each associated range setting. The first success / failure determination unit 113 and the second success / failure determination unit 117 refer to the determination table of FIG. In the normal probability state, that is, the uncertain change state, the winning / losing lottery value falls within the range of 0 to 4099, and it is a big hit, and the winning probability is about 1/16. In the probability variation state, the jackpot range is expanded, and not only when the winning / losing lottery value falls within the range of 0 to 4099 but also when it falls within the range of 4100 to 4369, the hit probability becomes about 1/15. . As described above, the range corresponding to the big hit changes according to the gaming state, and although there is a difference in the hit probability between the probability variation state and the normal probability state, the difference is slight. Therefore, even if it is a normal probability state, it can be said that the hit probability is comparatively easy to occur without the hit probability being remarkably low as compared with the probability variation state. On the other hand, even if it is a probability variation state, the hit probability is not much higher than that of the normal probability state, and it cannot be said that the state is much more advantageous than the normal probability state. In this figure, the single hit / fail judgment table shows the big hit range for both normal time and probability change, but the success / fail judgment table may be prepared separately for normal time and for probability change.

  Returning to FIG. 3, the first special symbol display device 70 and the second special symbol display device 71 determine the first special symbol display unit 70 and the second special symbol display unit 71 to determine the first special symbol determination unit 113 and the second special symbol determination unit 117. It is displayed in a variable manner. In addition, a decorative symbol that shows the determination results by the first and second determination units 113 and 117 in a stunning manner is variably displayed on the effect display device 60. The first lottery means 126 and the second lottery means 128 transmit the lottery result corresponding to the symbol fluctuation to the symbol mode determining means 131 and the effect determining means 132 together with the symbol fluctuation control command at the timing of starting the symbol fluctuation. .

  The first winning / failing determining means 113 and the second winning / failing determining means 117, based on the determination result, the symbol lottery value acquired separately, and the determination result by the specific determining means 121, the stop symbol at the start of symbol variation. decide. Before explaining the method of determining the stop symbol of the special symbol, the transition state of the gaming state which is a premise for determining the stop symbol will be described.

  The specific determination means 121 changes the gaming state between the normal mode that is the first gaming state, the preparation mode that is the second gaming state, and the continuous mode that is the third gaming state. In the normal mode, the specific determination unit 121 activates a probability variation unit 154 described later and deactivates a ball variation variation unit 156 described later. That is, the probability variation state and the normal entry state are set. In the preparation mode, the specific determination unit 121 deactivates the probability variation unit 154 and deactivates the entry variation unit 156. That is, the normal probability state and the normal entry state are set. In the continuous channel mode, the specific determination unit 121 operates the probability variation unit 154 and also activates the ball entering variation unit 156. In other words, the probability variation state and the easy entry state are set. However, the continuous mode is maintained even in the normal probability state as long as it is easy to enter the ball. The specific determination means 121 determines whether to shift to the normal mode, the preparation mode, or the continuous mode after the special game when the winning / losing lottery is won.

  The specific determination unit 121 operates the probability variation unit 154 with a higher probability than the probability that the probability variation unit 154 is deactivated when the winning / losing lottery is a win. That is, when the winning / losing lottery is a win, it is determined to shift to the probability variation state with a higher probability than the probability of shifting to the normal probability state. The period during which the probability variation state is maintained is determined until the next hit occurs, or until the number of deviating symbol fluctuations reaches a predetermined probability change end count at the longest unless a hit occurs. In the normal mode, when the number of symbol fluctuations out of the probability variation state reaches the probability variation end count, for example, “50 times”, the specific determination means 121 shifts the gaming state to the preparation mode which is the normal probability state. The period during which the easy-to-enter state is maintained is determined until the next hit occurs, or until a deviating symbol variation reaches a predetermined easy-to-enter end number of times as long as no hit occurs. In the case where the change of the symbol that has come off in the easy-to-enter state has reached the number of easy-to-enter final times, for example, “30 times”, the specific determination means 121 shifts the gaming state to the normal mode or the preparation mode that is the normal entering state.

  With respect to the number of consecutive hits that can occur while the probability variation state continues, “30 times” is predetermined as the upper limit number (also referred to as “the probability variation continuous upper limit number”). The specific determination means 121 determines that it can shift to either the probability variation state or the normal probability state according to the type of hit until the probability variation continuous upper limit number is reached, whereas in the case of hitting the probability variation continuous upper limit number, The decision to shift to the preparation mode, which is a normal probability state, is made. With respect to the number of hits that can occur while the easy-to-enter state continues, “20 times” is set in advance as the upper limit number (also referred to as “the easy-to-enter continuous upper limit number”). The specific determination means 121 determines the transition to the continuous mode in which the easy entry state is always given until reaching the easy entry continuous upper limit number, whereas in the case of hitting the easy entry continuous upper limit number, A decision is made to shift to the normal mode or the preparation mode, which is the normal entry state.

  FIG. 5 is a state transition diagram showing a transition state of the gaming state between the normal mode, the preparation mode, and the continuous mode. In this figure, a transition due to a hit with a relatively high probability is drawn with a solid line, and a shift due to a hit with a relatively low probability is drawn with a one-dot chain line. The transition made by the continuation of the deviation is drawn with a broken line. First, when a game is started in the normal mode 300, which is the first gaming state as an initial state, the probability mode is given with high probability, so the normal mode 300 is easily maintained (S500), but with a low probability. When it is a hit where no certain change is given, the process proceeds to the preparation mode 302 (S502). Whether or not the probability change is given is determined by a symbol determination result described later by the first lottery means 126 and the second lottery means 128. When the number of consecutive deviations in the normal mode 300 reaches the probability change end number (S504), the process proceeds to the preparation mode 302 (S506). If the number of consecutive hits reaches the maximum number of probability variation while the normal mode 300 is maintained through the succession of big hits with probability variation (S508), the process proceeds to the preparation mode 302 (S510). As shown in this figure, since the transition to the easy entry state is not given to the hit in the normal mode 300, even if a hit occurs, the mode returns to the normal mode 300 with a high probability or shifts to the preparation mode 302 with a low probability. It does not move to the continuous mode 304. However, as a modification, it is possible to adopt gameability that may shift from the normal mode 300 to the continuous mode 304 by giving a transition to the easy-to-enter state with a low probability.

  When a big hit with a certain change occurs in the preparation mode 302, when the hit is triggered by a ball entering the first start port 62 (S512), the process shifts to the continuous mode 304 (S513). When the hit is a hit triggered by entering the second starting port 63 (S516), the mode shifts to the continuous mode 304 with a relatively high probability based on a stop symbol form as a symbol determination result described later. (S517-A), the mode is returned to the normal mode 300 with a relatively low probability (S517-B). When a big hit without a probability change occurs in the preparation mode 302, when the hit is triggered by a ball entering the first start port 62 (S514), the process shifts to the continuous mode 304 similarly to the big hit with a probability change. However (S515), when the hit is a hit triggered by entering the second start port 63 (S518), the process returns to the preparation mode 302 (S519).

  When a big hit with probability change occurs in the continuous mode 304, the easy entry state is given to the hit, so the continuous mode 304 is maintained (S520). When a big hit without any probability change occurs in the continuous chung mode 304, the easy hitting state is given to the hit, and the continuous champ mode 304 is maintained (S521). If the number of consecutive misses has reached the final number of easy entering balls (S522), if it is in a probable change state at that time, the process proceeds to the normal mode 300 (S524), and if it is the normal probability state, the process proceeds to the preparation mode 302 ( S526). When a big hit with probability change occurs while the continuous mode 304 is maintained and the number of consecutive hits reaches the maximum number of easy entering balls (S528), the process proceeds to the normal mode 300 (S530). When a big hit without probability change occurs while the continuous change mode 304 is maintained and the number of consecutive hits reaches the maximum number of easy entering balls (S532), the process proceeds to the preparation mode 302 (S534). In the case of big hit with probability change in the continuous mode 304 as well, the number of probability change end times is determined in the same manner as in the normal mode 300. ”, The normal mode 300 is entered when the number of consecutive misses reaches the end of easy entry, and then the preparation mode 302 is entered when the probable end number is reached. Therefore, the number of times of probable change is not reached in the continuous mode 304.

  Returning to FIG. 3, according to the determination result by the specific determination unit 121, the first determination unit 113 and the second determination unit 117 determine the stop symbol of the special symbol based on the determination result and the symbol lottery value. The first winning / failing determining means 113 and the second winning / failing determining means 117 hold a symbol range table that is referred to in order to determine a special symbol stop symbol. In the symbol range table for determining the first special symbol 192 or the second special symbol 193, a special symbol represented by numbers and symbols “0” to “9” and a symbol “−” and the first symbol lottery Correspondence with the value or the second symbol lottery value is determined.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically showing a first symbol determination table that is referred to when the result of the winning / losing lottery corresponds to a big hit. The first success / failure determination means 113 and the second success / failure determination means 117 refer to the symbol determination table of this figure in symbol determination. The first symbol determination table 400 defines the correspondence between the special symbols of the special symbol numbers “1” to “10” and the symbol lottery value.

  As shown in the figure, among the special symbol numbers “1” to “10”, “2”, “4”, “6”, “8”, and “10” are associated with the jackpot with probability variation, and the remaining special symbol numbers “1”. “3”, “5”, “7”, and “9” are associated with normal jackpots that are not probable. As shown in the figure, there are only 8 lottery values associated with the normal jackpot, “0, 1”, “52, 53”, “104, 105”, “156”, “207”. The remaining lottery values, that is, 248 lottery values are associated with the jackpot with probability variation. As a result, in the mode in which the first symbol determination table 400 is referred to, about 97% of the hits are big hits with certainty and about 3% are usually big hits.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing a second symbol determination table to be referred to when the number of consecutive hits reaches the probability variation continuous upper limit number. In the symbol determination when the number of consecutive wins reaches the probability variation continuous upper limit number, the first win / fail determination unit 113 and the second win / fail determination unit 117 perform FIG. Instead of the first symbol determination table 400, the second symbol determination table 402 in this figure is referred to. In the second symbol determination table 402, all symbol lottery values are associated with the special symbol of the special symbol number “11”. The special symbol of the special symbol number “11” is a symbol indicating a big hit that is not accompanied by a probable change and that is not accompanied by an easy entry state. As a result, when the number of consecutive hits reaches the probability variation continuous upper limit number, it becomes a big hit with neither probability variation nor easy entering state with a probability of 100%, and the mode shifts to the preparation mode. In the present embodiment, the example in which all the symbol lottery values are associated with the special symbol of the special symbol number “11” has been described. In the modified example, as a symbol determination table in which such a big hit is generated with a low probability by associating a part of the symbol lottery value with another special symbol indicating a big hit with a probability of easy entry but with no easy change. Also good.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically showing a third symbol determination table that is referred to when the number of consecutive hits has reached the maximum number of easy-to-enter continuously. In the symbol determination when the number of consecutive hits has reached the maximum number of easy-to-enter continuously, even if the result of the success / failure lottery corresponds to the big hit, Instead of the first symbol determination table 400 of FIG. 6, the third symbol determination table 404 of this figure is referred to. In the third symbol determination table 404, in this symbol determination table, the correspondence relationship between the special symbols of the special symbol numbers “12” to “21” and the symbol lottery value is defined.

  As shown in this figure, among the special symbol numbers “12” to “21”, “13”, “15”, “17”, “19”, and “21” are associated with jackpots that have a certain change and do not involve easy entry. The remaining special symbol numbers “12”, “14”, “16”, “18”, and “20” are associated with jackpots that are neither prone to change nor easy to enter. As shown in the figure, a total of 8 lottery values of “0, 1”, “52, 53”, “104, 105”, “156”, and “207” are associated with the big hit without any probability change or easy entry. On the other hand, the remaining lottery values, that is, 248 lottery values, are associated with jackpots that have a certain variation and do not involve easy entry. As a result, when the number of consecutive hits reaches the maximum number of easy-to-enter continuously, about 97% of the hits have a probable change and become a big hit without an easy-to-enter state, and shift to the normal mode. % Is a big hit with no probability change or easy entry, and the player enters the preparation mode.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically showing a fourth symbol determination table to be referred to when the result of the winning / failing lottery corresponds to an outage. As shown in the figure, in the fourth symbol determination table 406, the special symbol number “0” indicating a loss is associated with the symbol lottery values in the entire range when the result of the determination is incorrect.

  As described above, when the winning / losing lottery is a win, whether or not the gaming state after the special game is in a probable change state and whether or not it is easy to enter the ball is determined by the determination result by the specific determining means 121 and the first lottery. It is determined by the symbol determination result by the means 126 and the second lottery means 128.

  Returning to FIG. 3, the first pattern determining means 114 is based on the pattern lottery value separately acquired for the variation pattern in which the display process of the symbol variation to be displayed on the first special symbol display device 70 and the effect display device 60 is determined. Determined from a plurality of variation patterns. The second pattern determining means 119 selects a plurality of variation patterns based on a separately obtained pattern lottery value from a variation pattern in which a symbol variation display process to be displayed on the second special symbol display device 71 and the effect display device 60 is determined. Decide from the inside. The first pattern determining unit 114 and the second pattern determining unit 119 each determine a variation pattern of the symbol variation with reference to the variation pattern table when starting the symbol variation. The first pattern determination unit 114 and the second pattern determination unit 119 each hold a plurality of variation pattern tables that are referred to in order to determine the variation pattern. A plurality of types of variation patterns are defined on the assumption that there are various variation times, short and long, and that symbol variation is also performed by a decorative symbol composed of a plurality of symbols in the variation time. In each variation pattern, a variation display time is defined for each pattern as an end condition of the symbol variation, and the variation of the special symbol and the decorative symbol is stopped when the variation display time elapses.

  The general drawing lottery means 129 executes a lottery by acquiring a lottery value (hereinafter also referred to as “normal drawing lottery value”) when a game ball passes through the operation port 68. In the success / failure table referred to by the ordinary drawing lottery 129, the determination result of winning or losing is associated with the ordinary drawing lottery value, and the success / failure probability is determined according to the associated winning range setting. In the easy-to-enter state, it is set to hit with a high probability of about 250/256, and when the game ball passes through the operation port 68, the second start port 63 is almost surely expanded. Conversely, in the normal state, the probability is set to a low probability of about 1/256. The result of the lottery by the normal symbol lottery means 129 is displayed in a variable manner in the form of a normal symbol 195 on the normal symbol display device 59. The regular symbol lottery means 129 holds a symbol range table to be referred to in order to determine the stop symbol of the normal symbol 195 to be displayed on the normal symbol display device 59. In the symbol range table, the correspondence relationship between the normal symbol lottery value and the normal symbol 195 is determined, and the universal symbol lottery means 129 determines the stop symbol of the normal symbol 195 with reference to the symbol range table.

  The regular symbol lottery means 129 also holds a time determination table to be referred to in order to determine the variation time of the normal symbol 195, and selects the variation time of the normal symbol 195 according to the internal state. The regular drawing lottery means 129 randomly selects a relatively long variation time between 30 seconds and 60 seconds in the variation display of the normal symbol 195 in the normal state. On the other hand, in the easy entry state, 2 seconds, which is a considerably shorter variation time than the normal state, is selected. In the time determination table, a correspondence relationship between such an internal state and the fluctuation time of the normal symbol 195 is determined, and the normal drawing lottery means 129 determines the fluctuation time of the normal symbol 195 with reference to the time determination table. To do.

  When the stop symbol determined for the normal symbol 195 becomes a predetermined symbol, it is determined that the normal symbol 195 is a hit, and the opening / closing control unit 124 is stopped after the fluctuation display of the normal symbol 195 is stopped by the stop symbol. Expands the ordinary electric accessory 65 of the second start port 63 for a predetermined time. The lottery value of the normal symbol is temporarily held by the hold control means 116. However, the lottery value is held only when the predetermined hold upper limit number held by the hold control means 116 is not exceeded.

  The holding control means 116 includes special figure holding means 144 and universal figure holding means 147. If the symbol variation corresponding to the previous lottery is displayed when the first lottery is newly executed, the special figure holding means 144 displays the new first lottery result corresponding to the lottery. Hold until fluctuating display starts. In the present embodiment, as the result of the first lottery, the winning / losing lottery value is held up to 4 as an upper limit. The reserved number is represented by the number of lighting of the first special symbol hold display device 20. The special figure holding means 144 also corresponds to the result of the new second lottery when the symbol variation corresponding to the previous lottery is displayed when the second lottery is newly executed. Hold until the start of the variable display of the symbol to be displayed. In the present embodiment, as a result of the second lottery, the winning / losing lottery value is held with the upper limit being four, but may be held together with the winning / failing lottery value determination result. The reserved number is represented by the number of lighting or blinking of the second special symbol holding display device 21. The general map holding means 147 holds the general map lottery value acquired by the general map lottery means 129 as a holding ball. The reserved number is represented by the number of lighting or blinking of the normal symbol hold display device 22.

  The main display control means 118 includes first special figure control means 148, second special figure control means 150, and universal figure control means 153. The first special symbol control means 148 causes the first special symbol display device 70 to display the fluctuation of the first special symbol 192 according to the fluctuation pattern determined as a result of the first lottery by the first lottery means 126. The first special symbol control means 148 sets a new symbol variation start condition that the symbol variation display corresponding to the first lottery or the second lottery performed before that ends. The second special symbol control means 150 causes the second special symbol display device 71 to display the fluctuation of the second special symbol 193 according to the fluctuation pattern determined as a result of the second lottery by the second lottery means 128. The second special symbol control means 150 also sets a new symbol variation start condition that the symbol variation display corresponding to the first lottery or the second lottery performed before that has ended.

  The first special figure control means 148 and the second special figure control means 150 issue a change start command and a change stop command at the timing of starting and stopping the change display of the first special symbol 192 and the second special symbol 193, respectively. This is transmitted to the effect display control means 134. When transmitting the variation start command, values indicating the determined determination result, stop symbol, and variation pattern are transmitted to the effect display control means 134 together with the variation start command. When transmitting the variation stop command, a value indicating the stop symbol is transmitted to the effect display control means 134 together with the variation stop command. Thereby, the fluctuation display by the main display control means 118 and the effect display control means 134 is synchronized, and the interlock is maintained. The normal symbol control means 153 causes the normal symbol display device 59 to display the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery means 129 as a variation display of the normal symbol 195.

  The special figure adjusting means 152 waits for the start of the other variable display while one of the first special symbol 192 and the second special symbol 193 is variably displayed. The special figure adjusting means 152 has a second special symbol based on the ball entering the second starting port 63 regardless of which of the first starting port 62 and the second starting port 63 the game ball has entered. The variation display of 193 is prioritized over the variation display of the first special symbol 192 based on the entrance to the first start port 62. For example, when both the first winner / lottery value and the second winner / lottery value are held, the second winner / lottery value is always preferentially digested, and the second special symbol 193 is continuously displayed in a variable manner. As a result, the symbol variation based on the entrance to the second start port 63 that can be expected to acquire the output is preferentially executed rather than the entrance to the first start port 62 where the acquisition of the output cannot be expected. The game progresses in line with the player's expectations.

  The special figure adjusting means 152 in the modified example displays the fluctuation display of the first special symbol 192 and the fluctuation display of the second special symbol 193 in accordance with the order of entering the first starting port 62 and the second starting port 63. Alternatively, the display may be selectively changed. For example, when the first start port 62, the first start port 62, and the second start port 63 are entered in the order, the display is changed in the order of the first special symbol 192, the first special symbol 192, and the second special symbol 193. Is done. In this case, the special figure adjustment unit 152 monitors the hold control unit 116 and stores the hold order of the winning / failing lottery values. Which special symbol is to be changed is determined in accordance with the order of entry of the game balls, that is, the hold order of the success / failure lottery values in the hold control means 116, so that the player can easily grasp the order of change visually.

  The special figure adjustment means 152 in another modified example may display the fluctuation display of the first special symbol 192 and the fluctuation display of the second special symbol 193 in a predetermined digestion order regardless of the order of entry. Good. For example, priority may be given to alternately displaying the fluctuation display of the first special symbol 192 and the fluctuation display of the second special symbol 193. For example, when both the first winning / losing lottery value and the second winning / losing lottery value are held, the first special symbol 192 and the second special symbol 193 are alternately displayed in a variable manner. Which special symbol should be changed is simply switched alternately regardless of the order of entry of the game balls, so that the player can easily grasp the order of change.

  The special figure adjusting means 152 also waits for the start of the other variable display when one of the first special symbol 192 and the second special symbol 193 is stopped in the hit state. In this case, the special symbol change display is not started while the special game is executed, so that the player can concentrate on the special game.

  When the first lottery by the first lottery means 126 results in the transition to the special game, the special game control unit 120 operates the special game when the first special symbol 192 is stopped in a predetermined big hit mode. It is determined that the condition is satisfied, and the special game is executed by opening the special winning opening 91. Similarly, the special game control means 120, when the second lottery by the second lottery means 128 results in the transition to the special game, when the second special symbol 193 is stopped in a predetermined big hit mode It is determined that the special game operation condition is established, and the special game is executed by opening the special winning opening 91.

  The special game is a game in which the opening / closing operation of the special winning opening 91 is continuously continued a plurality of times, and is constituted by a plurality of unit games with one opening / closing as a unit. In the case of a big hit triggered by entering the first starting port 62, a 2R special game composed of two unit games is executed as a shortened special game. In the 2R special game, the grand prize winning opening 91 is basically opened for about 0.2 seconds in one unit game. In the case of a big hit triggered by entering the second starting port 63, an 8R special game consisting of eight unit games is executed as a normal special game. In the 8R special game, the grand prize winning opening 91 is basically opened for about 30 seconds in one unit game. The special game control means 120 ends the special game when the number of rounds set for the unit game is exhausted.

  In this way, the special game control means 120 determines which special game is to be executed out of a plurality of types of special games with different magnitudes of profits that the player can obtain, that is, a large amount of play. It differs depending on which ball enters the first start port 62 and the second start port 63. As a result, if the hit is triggered by entering the first starting port 62, a shortened special game with a relatively small profit is executed with a higher probability than the hit triggered by entering the second starting port 63. Will be. On the other hand, if the hit is a hit triggered by entering the second starting port 63, a special special with a relatively high profit with a higher probability than a hit triggered by entering the first starting port 62 A game will be executed. In addition, since the second start port 63 does not expand easily unless it is a continuous change mode that is easy to enter, it is difficult to enter in the normal mode and the preparation mode because it rarely expands. In the continuous mode, the ball will expand frequently and enter the ball easily. Therefore, the special game control means 120 has a high possibility of executing a shortened special game when hitting in the normal mode or the preparation mode, and has a high possibility of executing a normal special game when hitting in the continuous mode.

  The specific game control unit 122 includes a probability variation unit 154 and a ball entry variation unit 156, and controls a normal game in the probability variation state and the ball entry easy state. The probability changing means 154 operates when a big hit with probability change is made, and shifts the gaming state to the probability changing state after the end of the special game. When the number of changes in the special symbol after the transition to the probability change state reaches a predetermined number of times as the end of the probability change, for example, 50 times, the probability changing means 154 is deactivated and the gaming state is changed to the normal probability state. Returned. Also, when the number of consecutive hits that occur in the probability variation state reaches the probability variation continuous upper limit number, for example, 30, the probability changing means 154 is deactivated and the gaming state is returned to the normal probability state.

  The incoming ball changing means 156 operates when a big hit is accompanied by the easy entry state, and shifts the gaming state to the easy entering state after the special game ends. In the easy entry state, the probability that the normal symbol lottery is won is higher than in the normal entry state, and further, the period during which the second start port 63 is expanded is relatively longer than in the normal entry state. Is made. In the easy entry state, the first pattern determining means 114 and the second pattern determining means 119 select a variation pattern with a short variation time so that the variation display time of the first special symbol 192 and the second special symbol 193 is substantially shortened. To do. When the number of changes in the special symbol after the transition to the easy entry state reaches a predetermined number of times, for example, 30 as the end of easy entry, the entry change means 156 is deactivated and the gaming state is normal. It is returned to the entering state of. Also, when the number of consecutive hits that occur in the easy-to-enter state reaches the maximum number of easy-to-enter continuous times, for example, 20 times, the in-coming variation means 156 is deactivated and the gaming state is changed to the normal ingress state. Returned.

  The opening / closing control means 124 controls the opening / closing of the ordinary electric accessory 65 and the special winning opening 91 at the second start opening 63. When the normal symbol 195 is stopped in a specific manner, the opening / closing control means 124 sends an opening instruction to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 76 to open the ordinary electric accessory 65 at the second start port 63. The opening / closing control means 124 performs an opening extension in which the ordinary electric accessory 65 is operated for a longer time than in the normal state in the easy-to-enter state, and the second start port 63 is expanded for a longer time than in the normal state. The ease of entering the ball at the second start port 63 is enhanced so that the player can continue the game without reducing his possession. In the special game, the opening / closing control means 124 sends an opening instruction to the special winning opening solenoid 78 to open the special winning opening 91.

  The game state holding means 158 stores state information that can identify the state of the game state. The gaming state holding means 158 includes a predetermined built-in nonvolatile memory for storing the state information, and holds the state information at that time when the power supply from the power supply unit 48 is cut off. Note that the “power supply cut-off” here refers to a case where the power supply is cut off regardless of the means. In addition to intentional cut-off by operating the power switch 40, unintentional cut-off such as during a power failure. Is also included. Specifically, the gaming state holding means 158 determines which gaming state is the first to third gaming states for the suggestion control described later, and the remaining period until the probable end of each gaming state, that is, The remaining number of symbol fluctuations (also called “probability remaining number of times”) up to the number of times of probable change is stored, and this is retained even after the power is turned off.

  The power interruption recovery control means 160 executes a power interruption process described later when the power is turned off, and executes a power activation process described later when the power is turned on. The power supply unit 48 is provided with voltage monitoring means. When the supply voltage to the main board 102 and the sub board 104 is lower than the reference voltage, an “interruptible signal” indicating that fact is output to the main board 102. . When the power interruption return control means 160 receives this power interruption signal, it executes the power interruption processing described later for saving the gaming state. When the power is turned off and then turned on again, the power interruption return control means 160 executes a power-on process described later for starting game control normally.

  The power interruption recovery control means 160 also obtains the state information stored in the gaming state holding means 158 when the next power is turned on after the power is turned off, and before the power is turned off based on the state information. Restore the gaming state of At that time, the power interruption return control means 160 transmits information indicating the probability variation remaining number stored in the game state holding means 158 to the operation check execution means 138. The operation check execution means 138 gives an instruction to the accessory control means 136 according to the probability remaining number of times, and operates the movable accessory 140 (corresponding to “specific control object”) in a manner different from the normal appearance. , Thereby performing suggestion control indicating which state the gaming state is started from. Details of this suggestion control will be described later. In the present embodiment, the power interruption recovery control means 160 and the operation check execution means 138 constitute “startup control means”.

  On the other hand, when the power is turned on through a special operation method called “RAM clear”, the power interruption return control means 160 does not acquire the gaming state before power interruption stored in the gaming state holding means 158. Turn on the power. The special operation method is different from the operation method of the power switch 40 for normal power-on, and is a method of operating the power switch 40 while pressing the RAM clear switch 41.

  The power interruption return control means 160 does not restore the gaming state before the power interruption when the power is turned on through the special operation method, and the second gaming state which is the initial state, that is, the non-probable change state and the non-intrusion state. Start the gaming machine in the ball easy state. As a modification, when the power is turned on through the special operation method described above, the power interruption recovery control means 160 may erase or acquire the state information stored in the gaming state holding means 158. You may discard it above. Alternatively, the power interruption recovery control means 160 may skip the process itself of restoring the state information when the power is turned on.

  The pattern storage means 130 holds a plurality of effect patterns in which effect image contents to be displayed on the effect display device 60 in the variation of the decorative design 190 and the display process thereof are determined. The effect pattern is displayed separately from a plurality of variable effect patterns in which the change process from start to stop of the change and the change process in the change display of the decorative pattern 190 and the change display of the decorative pattern are displayed, and the degree of expectation for the jackpot And a plurality of notice effect patterns that imply the height as a precursor before stopping the variable display.

  The effect determining means 132 causes the effect display control means 134 to display on the effect display device 60 according to the result of the first lottery received from the first lottery means 126 or the result of the second lottery received from the second lottery means 128. Determine the contents of the production. The effect determining unit 132 selects any one of a plurality of variation effect pattern data corresponding to the variation pattern of the special symbol determined by the first pattern determining unit 114 or the second pattern determining unit 119 and selects the pattern storage unit 130. Read from. The effect determining means 132 sends the read information of the fluctuation effect pattern to the effect display control means 134. The effect determining means 132 holds a pattern table that should be referred to in order to select a variable effect pattern.

  Each variation effect pattern has a variation time for each pattern as an end condition of the symbol variation, and the symbol variation is stopped when the variation time elapses. The effect determining unit 132 selects a variation effect pattern of the effect image having the same variation time according to the variation pattern of the special symbol.

  The symbol pattern determining unit 131 determines the combination of stop symbols of the decorative symbol 190 and the arrangement thereof as a result of the lottery by the first lottery unit 126 or the second lottery unit 128, the special symbol stop symbol, the special symbol variation pattern, and the decorative symbol. It is determined according to the fluctuation production pattern. The symbol form determination unit 131 transmits information indicating the determined combination of stop symbols to the effect display control unit 134. The symbol form determining means 131 holds a symbol range table to be referred to in order to determine the stop symbol of the decorative symbol.

  The stop symbol of the decorative symbol 190 is formed as a combination of three symbols. For example, when it is a hit corresponding to a normal special game triggered by entering the second starting port 63, “777” or “111” A combination of three identical number symbols is selected. On the contrary, when it is a hit corresponding to a shortened special game triggered by entering the first starting port 62, there is a specific combination in which three symbols are not uniform, such as “312” and “946”. Selected. If the result of the determination by the first lottery means 126 or the second lottery means 128 is out of reach and the number of times of the probable change is reached, three symbols are displayed in accordance with a predetermined rule to indicate that the transition to the preparation mode is preferable A special combination such as “123” and “789” is selected. If it is a deviation other than the deviation that reaches the number of times of probable change, three irregular combinations of symbols other than the specific combination and the special combination described above are selected. In the case where the result of the determination is that the result is unsatisfactory, and a variation pattern of a special symbol indicating unreachable with a reach is selected, a combination that does not have only one symbol such as “191” or “727” is selected. select. The effect determining unit 132 sends the stop symbol combination of the decorative symbol 190 and the variation pattern data of the decorative symbol to the effect display control unit 134. In addition, since the normal mode is not in a state where it is easy to enter the ball, it is configured such that only a short special game is generated when the ball enters the first start port 62. However, as a modified example, it may be configured such that a normal special game is generated with a low probability out of hits triggered by entering the first starting port 62 in the normal mode. In this case, since it is a hit with a high probability and a transition that cannot be shifted to the preparation mode, it is not a preferable hit, but it is a hit that can be obtained, so the symbol mode determining means 131 has three numeric symbols. Decorative symbols may be selected in a uniform combination.

  The decorative symbol variation pattern defines a decorative symbol variation display mode, that is, an effect process from the variation start to the variation stop of the decorative symbol. In the fluctuation pattern, a pattern for displaying a normal out symbol, a pattern for displaying a symbol out of reach after reaching a big win if one more symbols are aligned, and a jackpot symbol through a reach state are displayed. When the pattern is included. In particular, the pattern that passes through the reach state includes patterns having various fluctuation times. Each variation pattern has a variation time for each pattern as an end condition of the symbol variation, and the symbol variation is stopped when the variation time elapses. The effect determining unit 132 selects a variation pattern of a decorative symbol having the same variation time as that of the special symbol according to the variation pattern of the special symbol.

  The notice effect pattern is an effect pattern for temporarily displaying an image, animation, video, or the like of a specific character or motif, or an effect pattern for outputting a specific sound. The effect by the notice effect pattern is executed in parallel with the symbol variation, and suggests that the symbol variation is highly expected to stop in the big hit mode. For example, a normal notice effect in which only one character image is displayed on the screen, a group notice effect in which a large number of characters are displayed so as to pass from one end to the other end of the screen, and the movable accessory 140 are briefly displayed. There is a moving accessory notice effect that only operates. The movable accessory notice may be an effect accompanied by a specific screen display. Further, the display process of the notice effect is divided into a plurality of stages, and the number of stages to be displayed is made variable, and a step-up notice effect that is set such that the greater the number of stages is, the higher the degree of expectation for the big hit is included.

  The notice effect pattern includes a pattern in which the effect is executed at a timing after the display form of the decorative symbol 190 reaches the reach state and the final stop state of the symbol is notified, and no decorative symbol 190 is stopped. There is a pattern in which the performance is executed at the timing and the reach is reached at the same time.

  The effect determining means 132 determines whether or not to display the notice effect on the effect display device 60 according to the result of the lottery determination, makes a precursor setting, and determines the notice effect pattern to be displayed. . The effect determining means 132 holds a notice determination table that should be referred to in order to determine whether or not to display the notice effect, and a notice type table that should be referred to when selecting the type of the notice effect pattern. The notice decision table is set so that different columns are referred to depending on the result of the lottery, and if the lottery is a win, the notice lottery will be displayed with a higher probability than if it was missed. Correspondence between whether to display the result and the notice effect is determined. Thereby, the high expectation degree to the big hit can be suggested by displaying the notice effect itself.

  The effect determining means 132 determines the display content of the screen according to the gaming state in order to indicate to the player which state the gaming state is currently in. In this embodiment, the effect determining means 132 determines the background color of the screen according to the gaming state. When there is a game state transition, the effect determining unit 132 determines a change in the screen background color in accordance with the transition. For example, if the game state is shifted between the normal mode, the preparation mode, and the continuous mode due to the winning / losing lottery, the background color of the screen is changed. In addition, when the number of consecutive detachments in the normal mode reaches the probable end number and shifts to the preparation mode, or when the continuous number of detachments in the continuous mode reaches the number of easy entry end times and shifts to the normal mode or the preparation mode. Even change the background color of the screen. Furthermore, when the number of consecutive hits in the normal mode reaches the probability variation continuous upper limit number and shifts to the preparation mode, or the continuous number of hits in the continuous mode reaches the upper limit number of easy continuous entering balls and shifts to the normal mode or the preparation mode. In some cases, the background color of the screen is changed. Thereby, the player can grasp | ascertain the present game state easily by seeing the background color of a screen, and its change. As a modified example, in order to show the current gaming state to the player, a specification for displaying on the screen using other elements such as a character, a picture, a pattern, and a sound is not limited to the background color.

  The effect display control means 134 variably displays the effect image including the decorative design 190 on the effect display device 60 according to the selected fluctuation effect pattern data as a result of the success / failure lottery by the first lottery means 126 or the second lottery means 128. . The effect display control means 134 starts a new symbol variation when a variation start command for the decorative symbol 190 is received.

  The effect display control means 134, when the effect determining means 132 determines to display the notice effect, causes the effect display control means 134 to superimpose the notice effect according to the selected notice effect pattern on the effect display device 60 in the form of superimposing the symbol effect. Display. The effect display control means 134 displays the background color determined by the effect determination means 132 on the screen of the effect display device 60 according to the gaming state. The effect display control means 134 further controls effect processing such as lighting and extinguishing of the game effect lamp 90 and sound output from the speaker 18.

  In accordance with the instruction received from the effect display control means 134, the accessory control means 136 causes the movable accessory 140 to act in an effect manner in accordance with the effect contents in the effect display device 60 and the blinking process of the game effect lamp 90.

  In the above configuration, it is possible to start a gaming machine in a different gaming state depending on whether the game store clerk turns on the power through the RAM clear before the game store opens or turns on the power without going through the RAM clear. It becomes. That is, in order to equalize the superiority of each gaming machine at the time of opening the store, the power may be turned on after the RAM is cleared.

  On the other hand, by making the superiority of each gaming machine different at the time of opening the store, it is also possible to attract customers for a gaming table with higher superiority. Depending on the sales strategy of the amusement store, an event plan may be provided, and when the store is opened, the power of the game machine is turned on without going through the RAM clear so that each gaming machine has a different advantage and the store can be selected by the store. It is possible to increase the ability to attract customers. From this point of view, in this embodiment, assuming that the power supply is cut off in the first gaming state in particular, it is determined from which progress state of which gaming state when the power is turned on. The suggestion control suggested by the action is executed.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of suggestion control that suggests a gaming state when the power is turned on. (A)-(c) has illustrated the process of the suggestion control.
As already described, the movable accessory 140 is a movable object whose operation is controlled in conjunction with the effect, and specifically, it can take the state shown in the drawing process. In other words, four movable accessories 140 are provided that can be moved forward and backward from the four corners of the effect display device 60 to open and close the front side of the display area 194. Normally, it is held at the standby position shown in FIG. 5C, and when the movable object notice is determined as the notice effect, the accessory control means 136 moves the movable article 140 as shown in FIG. Advancing to the display area 194, depending on the production pattern, the front side of the display area 194 is fully closed as shown in FIG. However, the states shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B are very short in the notice effect, and the movable accessory 140 indicates that the degree of expectation is high by repeating the open / close state.

  On the other hand, the movable accessory 140 holds one of the states shown in the figure when the power is turned on to indicate how much the gaming state is in progress. Specifically, when the power is cut off in the first gaming state, the number of remaining probable changes in the first gaming state resumed when the power is turned on is indicated by the open / close state of the movable accessory 140. In this embodiment, when the probability variation remaining number is 10 or less, the closed state shown in FIG. 10A is obtained, and when the probability variation remaining number is in the range of 11 to 30 times, the half opening shown in FIG. When the probability variation remaining count is 31 or more, the fully open state shown in FIG. That is, when the movable accessory 140 is in the normal standby position as shown in FIG. 6C, if the first gaming state is present when the power is turned off, the probability change remaining number is 31 times or more. It can be disadvantageous for the player as compared with the situation shown in a) and (b). However, in this embodiment, even when the power is cut off in the second gaming state or the third gaming state, the state shown in FIG. 5C is established when the power is turned on, so that either gaming state may exist. The expectation that there is no remains.

FIG. 11 is a data structure diagram of a state setting table that is referred to when selecting an open state of a movable accessory as suggestion control.
The operation check execution means 138 receives a signal from the main board 102 when the power is turned on, executes an operation check process for checking the normal operation of the movable accessory 140, and determines the game state in the execution process of the operation check process. The suggestion control that suggests whether to start from the state is executed. That is, the operation check execution means 138 acquires information indicating which of the first to third game states and the probability change remaining number from the power interruption return control means 160 when the power is turned on, and performs an operation check process. Prior to execution, the state setting table in FIG. Then, the control unit 136 is instructed so that the movable accessory 140 is in a state associated with the probability variation remaining count. In this embodiment, as shown in the figure, when the game state is the first game state, the closed state is selected when the probability variation remaining number is 10 or less, and the probability variation remaining number is in the range of 11 to 30 times. When the half-open state is selected, and the probability variation remaining count is 31 or more, the fully open state is selected. On the other hand, when the game state is the second game state or the third game state, the fully opened state is selected regardless of the probability variation remaining number. In other words, in this embodiment, when the movable accessory 140 is fully opened after the power is turned on, it is disadvantageous for the player who has a large number of remaining probable changes in the first gaming state, or whether the second gaming state is the second gaming state. It can be inferred that this is an advantageous state for a player in three gaming states. In this respect, it is possible to raise the player's expectation.

  This suggestion control is executed in response to the next power-on after power-off, and the state of the movable accessory 140 is held until the start of symbol variation. However, when the RAM is cleared, the execution is canceled. Usually, it is executed when the power is turned on at the time of opening the store, and is executed based on the state information at the time of power-off at the time of closing the previous day. However, it is also executed when power is restored when the power is shut off due to an external factor such as a power failure. Here, a method for returning from the power interruption will be described.

  A processing unit that operates by receiving power supply from the power supply unit 48 is mounted on the main board 102. This processing unit includes a CPU that executes arithmetic processing, a ROM that stores a game program, a volatile processing RAM that functions as a work area for executing the game program, and a non-volatile backup for backing up game data. RAM etc. are provided. The CPU also functions as each unit such as the power interruption return control unit 160, and the backup RAM also functions as the game state holding unit 158. In addition to the game program, the ROM stores a parameter group indicating the initial state of the game program (hereinafter simply referred to as “initial state data”). When the power is cut off, the CPU stops its operation and the data on the processing RAM is lost, but the game data stored in the backup RAM is retained. The “game data” here is data including initial state data and midway state data to be described later, and all or a part of the data is subject to backup.

  The backup RAM holds midway state data. The “intermediate state data” here is game data indicating the game state at the time of power-off, and includes the above-described information on the probability variation remaining number. When the power is turned on, the CPU loads the game program from the ROM to the processing RAM. When there is no appropriate halfway state data in the backup RAM, the game is started from the initial state by loading the initial state data into the processing RAM and executing the game program based on the initial state data. On the other hand, if the intermediate state data is properly backed up in the backup RAM, the CPU loads the intermediate state data into the processing RAM instead of the initial state data, and based on the intermediate state data loaded into the processing RAM. To execute the game program. This makes it possible to reproduce the gaming state that was interrupted when the power was turned off. When the power is turned on, the power interruption recovery control means 160 transmits information on the probability variation remaining number included in the midway data to the accessory control means 136.

  On the other hand, a processing unit that operates by receiving power supply from the power supply unit 48 is also mounted on the sub-board 104. This processing unit also includes a CPU, a ROM, a processing RAM, and the like. The CPU also functions as each unit such as the operation check execution unit 138. The ROM stores game programs such as production control. When the power is cut off, the CPU stops operating and data on the processing RAM is lost. The function of the pattern storage means 130 of the sub-board 104 is mainly realized by a ROM. Each function of other means of the sub-board 104 is realized mainly by a game program executed by the CPU. When the power is turned on, the CPU loads the game program from the ROM to the processing RAM and executes the game program.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a basic operation process in the pachinko gaming machine. While the pachinko gaming machine 10 is in operation, the processing shown in the figure is repeatedly executed at predetermined time intervals. First, a predetermined power-on process is executed (S10). This power-on process is to load the game data when the power is turned on and operate the game program normally. At this time, the gaming state suggestion control described above is also executed. Details of the power-on process will be described later.

  Thereafter, processing is executed when the game ball enters the first start port 62, the second start port 63, the general winning port 72, the big winning port 91, etc. (S11), and if it is not in the special game (S12) N), a control process for a normal game such as winning / failing lottery is executed (S14). If a special game is in progress (Y in S12), a special game control process is executed (S16) and set in the winning process in S10. The winning ball payout according to various winnings is processed with the number of winning balls (S18). When power-off is detected, the above-described power interruption process is executed (S20).

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing in detail the power-on process of S10 in FIG. When the power is turned off and then turned on again, the sub board 104 is activated first, and then the main board 102 is activated. This is because various command information including a gaming state transmitted from the main board 102 at the timing when the main board 102 is activated is not missed on the sub board 104 side. If the RAM clear switch 41 is turned on (Y in S130), the power interruption return control means 160 executes a predetermined initialization process (S132). At this time, if game data such as halfway status data is held in the backup RAM, it is erased. When the RAM clear switch 41 is not turned on (N in S130), a “reproduction process” for reproducing the gaming state when the power is shut off is executed.

  That is, the power interruption return control means 160 loads the halfway state data from the backup RAM to the processing RAM, and also acquires the first checksum generated when the power is shut off. Subsequently, a new checksum (hereinafter referred to as “second checksum”) is generated from the loaded halfway state data by the same method as the first checksum generation method, and the first checksum and the second checksum are generated. It is determined whether or not the thumb matches. At this time, if the two checksums match (Y in S136), the loaded halfway state data is set as valid (S138). In addition, information indicating which of the first to third gaming states is stored in the gaming state holding unit 158 and information indicating the probability variation remaining number are transmitted to the operation check executing unit 138.

  When the operation check execution means 138 receives the information indicating the probability variation remaining count, the operation check execution means 138 executes an operation check process for checking whether or not a specific control target including the movable accessory 140 functions normally (S140). Specifically, an instruction is given to the accessory control means 136 to drive the movable accessory 140 to execute a series of operations shown in FIGS. Confirm that the object 140 is driven to the set position. In this embodiment, an optical sensor (not shown) is installed on the back of the game area 52 (around the effect display device 60), and whether a detection signal from the optical sensor is acquired at a predetermined operation timing of the movable accessory 140. It is determined whether the operation is normal or not. At this time, if the operation of the movable accessory 140 is not normal, a calibration process set in advance for detecting the position of the movable accessory 140 is executed.

  The operation check execution means 138 executes the gaming state suggestion control described above (S142). That is, the suggestion control is executed at the end as part of the operation confirmation process. Thereby, the movable accessory 140 is held at any position in FIGS. 10A to 10C based on the gaming state when the power is shut off. This state is canceled at the same time when the player starts playing and the first symbol variation is started. That is, at the start of symbol variation, the movable accessory 140 is set at the standby position shown in FIG. If the checksums do not match (N in S136), initialization processing is executed (S132).

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing in detail the power interruption process in S20 of FIG.
When a power interruption signal indicating that the power supply has been cut off is input to the main board 102 (Y in S150), processing for saving the gaming state is executed. The power interruption recovery control means 160 identifies game data to be backed up, generates a checksum (hereinafter referred to as “first checksum”), and records it in the backup RAM (S152). The checksum generation method may be a known method. The game data specified at this time includes halfway state data, and the power interruption return control means 160 saves the game data in the backup RAM (S154). The game state holding means 158 stores information (including the probability variation remaining number) indicating the game state when the power is turned off and the progress state thereof. On the other hand, if no power interruption signal is input (N in S150), the processes in S122 and S124 are skipped. When the power is shut off, the main board 102 first stops starting, and then the sub board 104 stops starting. This is because various command information transmitted from the main board 102 is not missed on the sub board 104 side.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing in detail the normal game control process of S14 in FIG. In the normal game control process, if the symbol variation display has not yet started (N in S30), if the timing is the variation display timing of the second special symbol 193 (Y in S32), the second win / fail determination means 117 holds the special symbol hold. The second winning / losing lottery value is read from the means 144 to determine whether or not the second lottery is successful (S34). The specific determination unit 121 determines whether or not to shift to the probability change state and whether or not to enter the easy-to-enter state according to the gaming state, and if there is a change in the gaming state, the effect determination unit 132 determines the screen background color ( S35). The second pattern determining unit 119 determines the variation pattern of the second special symbol 193, and the effect determining unit 132 determines the variation effect pattern of the decorative symbol 190 corresponding to the determined variation pattern (S38). Thereafter, the symbol variation of the second special symbol 193 and the decorative symbol 190 is started (S48).

  When there is no hold of the second winning / losing lottery value and it is not the variable display timing of the second special symbol 193 (N of S32), and when it is the variable display timing of the first special symbol 192 (Y of S40), The first winning / failing determination means 113 reads the first winning / failing lottery value from the special figure holding means 144 and determines whether or not the first lottery is successful (S42). The specific determining means 121 determines whether or not to shift to the probability changing state and whether or not to enter the easy-to-enter state according to the gaming state, and if there is a change in the gaming state, the effect determining means 132 determines the screen background color ( (S43), the first pattern determining means 114 determines the variation pattern of the first special symbol 192 (S46). Thereafter, the symbol variation of the first special symbol 192 and the decorative symbol 190 is started (S48). If it is not the variation display timing of the first special symbol 192, the processing from S42 to S46 is skipped (N in S40).

  When the symbol variation has been started in S30 (Y in S30), the symbol variation display process is executed (S49), and the variation end process corresponding to the timing is performed (S50). As a modified example, whether the first special symbol 192 or the second special symbol 193 starts to change is awarded to the first start port 62 stored by the special symbol adjusting means 152. And may be determined according to the winning order to the second start port 63.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing in detail the game state determination process of S35 and S43 in FIG. First, if the winning lottery is a win (Y in S60) and the gaming state at that time is the normal mode (Y in S62), if the probability variation continuous upper limit number has been reached (Y in S66), the second The special symbol stop symbol is determined with reference to the symbol determination table 402 (S69), the specific determination unit 121 determines to shift to the preparation mode, and the effect determination unit 132 determines the screen background color of the preparation mode (S70). ). If the probability variation continuous upper limit number has not been reached (N in S66), the special symbol stop symbol is determined with reference to the first symbol determination table 400 (S67), and the specific determination means 121 shifts to the normal mode or the preparation mode. At the same time, the effect determining means 132 determines the screen background color in the normal mode or the preparation mode (S68). Whether the actual mode is the normal mode or the preparation mode is determined by the special symbol stop symbol determined in S67. If the symbol indicates a big hit with a certain variation, the normal mode is selected, and there is no certain variation. If the symbol represents a big hit, the preparation mode is entered.

  When the game state at the time of winning is not the normal mode (N in S62) and is in the preparation mode (Y in S72), if the winning is triggered by entering the first starting port 62 (in S74) Y), the stop symbol of the special symbol is determined with reference to the first symbol determination table 400 (S75), and the specific determination means 121 determines whether to shift to the continuous mode regardless of whether or not there is a certain change and determines the effect. The means 132 determines the screen background color in the continuous mode (S76). On the other hand, if it is a hit triggered by entering the second start port 63 (N in S74), the special symbol stop symbol is determined with reference to the first symbol determination table 400 (S77), and the specific determination means. 121 determines that the mode is returned to the normal mode or the preparation mode, and the effect determination means 132 determines the screen background color of the normal mode or the preparation mode (S78). Whether the actual mode is the normal mode or the preparation mode is determined by the special symbol stop symbol determined in S77. When the symbol indicates a big hit with a certain variation, the normal mode is selected and the certain variation is not involved. If the symbol represents a big hit, the preparation mode is entered. However, in this case, it becomes a big hit with a certain probability with a very high probability of about 97%, and the mode is shifted to the normal mode.

  If it is not the preparatory mode but the continuous mode (N in S72), if the maximum number of consecutive easy entry is reached (Y in S79), the stop symbol of the special symbol is determined with reference to the third symbol determination table 404 Then, the specific determination unit 121 determines to shift to the normal mode or the preparation mode, and the effect determination unit 132 determines the screen background color of the normal mode or the preparation mode (S81). If it has not reached the maximum number of times of continuous easy entry (N in S79), the special symbol stop symbol is determined with reference to the first symbol determination table 400 (S82), and the specific determination means 121 is determined to shift to the continuous mode. And the effect determining means 132 determines the screen background color of the continuous mode (S83). If the winning / failing lottery is not a win (N in S60), the special symbol stop symbol is determined with reference to the fourth symbol determination table 406 (S84).

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing in detail the variation end process of S50 in FIG. When a predetermined variation time has passed and the symbol display stop timing is reached (Y in S90), the symbol variation being displayed is stopped (S92). At this time, if the result of the lottery is wrong (Y in S94) and the gaming state at that time is the normal mode (Y in S96), if the number of consecutive consecutive misses has reached the probability change end number ( The process proceeds to the preparation mode (Y in S98) (S100), and if the probability variation end count has not been reached, S100 is skipped and the flow of this figure is ended (N in S98). When it is not the normal mode (N in S96) and the continuous mode is selected (Y in S102), the number of consecutive losing reaches the final number of easy entering balls (Y in S104), and if it is in a probable change state at that time (S106) Y), the mode is changed to the normal mode and the effect display control means 134 displays the screen background color of the normal mode (S108). If it is not a certain change state (N of S106), it will transfer to a preparation mode and the production | presentation display control means 134 will display the screen background color of a preparation mode (S110). If it has not reached the number of times when it is easy to enter the ball, the processing from S106 is skipped and the flow of this figure is terminated (N in S104). Further, when the mode is not the continuous mode, the flow of this figure is also finished (N in S102). Even if the winning / losing lottery is not missed, the flow of S96 and subsequent steps is skipped and the flow of this figure is terminated (N of S94), and the symbol display stop timing has not been reached (N of S90), Processing is skipped and the flow of this figure is ended. In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the determination as to whether or not the probability variation end count has been reached (S98) and the determination as to whether or not the easy entry end count has been reached (S104) are executed after the symbol variation has stopped. As a modified example, it may be configured to determine whether or not the number of times of probable change ending or the number of times of easy entry of the ball has been reached before the timing, for example, before the start of symbol variation.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing in detail the special game of S16 in FIG. First, when the special winning opening 91 has not been opened yet (N in S300), the production display control means 134 starts the special game production process (S302), and the open / close control means 124 opens the special winning opening 91 (S304). ). If the big winning opening 91 has been opened, S302 and S304 are skipped (Y in S300). If the predetermined opening time has elapsed since the winning opening 91 was opened (Y in S306), or the opening time has not elapsed (N in S306), the number of balls entered into the winning opening 91 is When the number of balls reaches nine or more (Y in S308), the opening / closing control means 124 closes the special winning opening 91 (S310). If the opening time has not elapsed (N in S306) and the number of balls entered into the grand prize winning opening 91 has not reached nine or more (N in S308), the processing after S310 is skipped and the flow of S16 Exit.

  If the unit game has reached the final round after closing the special winning opening 91 in S310 (Y in S312), the effect display control means 134 ends the effect processing of the special game (S314), and the special game control means 120 The special game is ended (S316), and when the determination process of S35 or S43 in FIG. The effect display control means 134 displays the screen background color according to the gaming state (S318). If the unit game has not reached the final round (N in S312), 1 is added to the number of rounds and the flow in S16 is terminated (S319).

  In the above-described embodiment, a configuration has been described in which the hit in the continuous mode is a hit with a high probability of giving a transition to the probability change state and the easy entry state. As a modification thereof, a configuration may be adopted in which all the hits in the continuous mode are generated with a transition to the probability change state and the easy entry state.

  In the above-described embodiment, a configuration has been described in which a hit with no probability change is made with a low probability out of hits triggered by entering the second start port 63 in the preparation mode. As a modification thereof, a configuration may be adopted in which all hits triggered by entering the second starting port 63 are assumed to be hits with a certain change and the mode is shifted to the normal mode.

In the above embodiment, an example of the state setting table is shown in FIG. That is, the example in which the movable accessory 140 is set to the normal standby state (default state), that is, the fully opened state when the probability variation remaining number is equal to or greater than the predetermined number (31 times). In a modification, it is not restricted to this, The operation | movement aspect of the movable accessory 140 can be set suitably according to the frequency | count of probability change remaining.
FIG. 19 is a data structure diagram of a state setting table according to the modification. As shown in the figure, in the case of the first gaming state, the same operation is performed both when the probability variation remaining number is less than or equal to the first reference number (for example, 10 times or less) and when it is greater than or equal to the second reference number (for example, 41 times or more). It is good also as an aspect (for example, closed state). On the other hand, when the game state is the second game state or the third game state, the fully open state may be selected regardless of the probability variation remaining number. In other words, in this modification, when the movable accessory 140 is fully opened after power is turned on, it is disadvantageous to a player who has a relatively large number of remaining probable changes in the first gaming state, or the second gaming state. It can be inferred that this is an advantageous state for the player in the third gaming state. In this respect, it is possible to raise the player's expectation. Further, when the movable accessory 140 is in a closed state after the power is turned on, a state that is advantageous to the player who has the smallest number of remaining probability changes in the first gaming state, or a probability changing state in the first gaming state. It can be estimated that the player is in the most disadvantageous state for the player with the largest number of ranges. In other words, even if the closed state indicates high risk / high return, the player's expectation and interest can be enhanced.

  In the said Example, the example which suggests the probability change remaining frequency in a 1st game state as a game state was shown. In the modification, it may be suggested which of the first gaming state, the second gaming state, and the third gaming state. Further, for example, the probability variation remaining number in the third gaming state may be suggested. In that case, contrary to the first gaming state, the player's sense of gain increases as the probability variation remaining number increases. Or you may make it suggest the remaining number of times (the number of easy entering balls) of the number of easy entering times in the 3rd game state, for example. In that case, the player's sense of gain increases as the number of easily entered remaining games increases.

  In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the game state suggestion control is part of the operation confirmation process of the movable accessory 140 that is executed each time the power is turned on is shown. In the modification, the operation of the movable accessory 140 may be controlled as a process separate from the operation confirmation process. In addition to the movable accessory 140, the gaming state may be displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 60. In that case, the probability variation remaining count may be specified, but a suggestion display may be performed so that the player can estimate the probability variation remaining count while leaving uncertainty unclear. For example, the background color of the display screen is in the range of the probability variation remaining number, such as blue if the probability variation remaining number is 0 to 10 times, yellow if 11 to 30 times, red if 31 to 50 times, and so on. Accordingly, the background color of the display screen may be changed.

In the above embodiment, an example is shown in which the game state suggestion control is executed when the game clerk turns on the power switch 40 without pressing the RAM clear switch 41 when the power is turned on. In the modification, an suggestion control execution switch dedicated to suggestion control (such as a sub button connected to the sub-board 104) is provided, and the suggestion control is executed only when the suggestion control execution switch is pressed when the power is turned on. May be. For example, when the suggestion control execution switch is turned on while the suggestion control execution switch is pressed, the movable accessory 140 is held in a state indicating the gaming state for a predetermined period (for example, a period until the first symbol variation is started). You may make it do.
Further, when a specific operation input called “hidden command” is made by the player, game state suggestion control may be executed. For example, when there is an external input that cannot be operated in the normal gaming state of the gaming machine, such as pressing and holding the operation button 82 for a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds) or more without firing a game ball after power-on. The suggestion control may be executed. Also in this case, the suggestion control may be terminated when a predetermined period elapses (for example, when the first symbol variation is started).

(Example 2)
The pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment mainly in the installation position of the second start port 63. Since other configurations and game methods are basically the same as those in the first embodiment, differences will be mainly described and description of common points will be omitted.

  FIG. 20 shows a basic structure on the front side of the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the second embodiment. As shown in the figure, the second start port 63 of this embodiment is provided at the lower right of the game area 52. The operation port 68 is provided above the second start port 63, that is, on the right side of the game area 52. The positions of the second start port 63 and the operation port 68 are the normal so-called left-handed, that is, the route of the game ball launched aiming at the route toward the first start port 62 through which the game ball flows on the left side of the center decoration 64. The left-handed game ball is difficult to enter. Therefore, in a period during which the player should enter the second starting port 63, for example, in an easily entering state, the player aims at the route toward the second starting port 63 by flowing the game ball on the right side of the center decoration 64 by so-called right hitting. And fire. Since the operation port 68 is also provided on the right side of the game area 52, a game ball aimed at the second start port 63 can easily pass through the operation port 68, and the frequency of the open lottery and the second start port 63 are improved in the continuous mode. It is possible to aim for an increase in the number of incoming balls at the same time, and a quick consecutive hit can be expected. In addition, since the game ball aiming at the second start opening 63 is difficult to enter the first start opening 62 originally provided at the position assumed to be left-handed, it is the period during which the second start opening 63 should be aimed at. Inadvertent entry to the first start port 62 can be reduced in the easy ball state. In the preparation mode, although the frequency is very low, the ordinary electric accessory 65 of the second start port 63 may be opened, so that the normal mode is shifted to the second start port 63 by chance. There is a possibility that However, by setting the position of the second start port 63 to the right of the game area 52 off the normal left-handed route, such accidental entry to the second start port 63 is effectively prevented. be able to.

  In the second embodiment, the possibility that the second starting port 63 expands is not zero even in the normal entry state. In addition, unlike the first embodiment, the upper part of the second starting port 63 is not shielded, and a passage having a width through which the game ball can barely pass is formed in the ordinary electric accessory 65 even when it is not expanded. Even if it does not expand, the possibility of entering the ball is not zero. Here, two nails called so-called life nails are provided above the second start opening 63, and the interval between the life nails is formed to be narrow enough to allow the game ball to pass through. It may be structured and arranged so that it is difficult to enter the ball and practically no game ball passes through. In this case, the position of the second start port 63 does not necessarily have to be right to the lower right of the game area 52 that is optimal for right-handed driving, and may be provided at an arbitrary position.

(Example 3)
The pachinko gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments in that it is realized as a so-called first type pachinko gaming machine. A plurality of start winning openings are used as the starting winning openings, which are different from the first and second embodiments in that they correspond to a common single winning / losing lottery and display a symbol variation with a single special symbol. Since other configurations and game methods are basically the same as those in the first and second embodiments, differences will be mainly described and description of the common points will be omitted.

  FIG. 21 shows a basic structure on the front side of the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the third embodiment. The arrangement of the first start port 62 and the second start port 63 is the same as in the first embodiment. However, entering the first starting port 62 and the second starting port 63 is a common winning / lottery event. The winning probability of the winning / failing lottery is about 1 / 2.02 in the normal probability state and about 1 / 2.00 in the probability variation state. Whether or not the ball enters any of the first start port 62 and the second start port 63, the result of the success / failure lottery is commonly indicated by a variation display of the special symbol 196 on the special symbol display device 79. The 2R special game, which is a shortened special game, is executed regardless of whether the first start port 62 or the second start port 63 has entered the winning lottery. Therefore, in the special game in the present embodiment, it is not possible to acquire a substantial number of balls, and basically it is a game that increases the balls little by little with a winning ball by entering the second starting port 63. The game mode is the most advantageous game mode, which is also the easy entry mode.

  Also in this embodiment, the continuous change mode, which is an easy-to-enter state, is the most advantageous game state for the player, and the game is advanced with the basic goal of shifting to that state. If the number of consecutive hits reaches the upper limit of the number of consecutive hits and a hit without any certain change occurs, the hits must be continued from the beginning. According to the present embodiment, even if a hit without such a probability change occurs, it shifts to the chance mode, and if a hit that does not have a probability change appears again immediately after that, it is easy to enter the ball. Is given, and it shifts to continuous mode. As a result, it is possible to provide relief for the situation where the number of continuous upper limit times is reached and to return to the start, and to prevent a decrease in gaming motivation.

  As a modification, instead of providing the first start port 62, two nails may be provided above the second start port 63 as life nails. The interval between the nail is formed so as to be narrow enough to allow the game ball to pass barely, so that the game ball is difficult to pass. In this case, in the normal mode and the chance mode, it is not easy to enter the ball, so the player does not frequently enter the second starting port 63. It will be a game that can be expected to enter many balls. Also in this modified example, the continuous change mode, which is an easy-to-enter state, is the most advantageous gaming state for the player, and the third embodiment is different from the third embodiment in that the game is advanced with the basic goal of shifting to that state. In common, the same effect as in the third embodiment can be obtained.

  In the above, this invention was demonstrated based on the Example. This embodiment is merely an example, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made to the combination of each component and each processing process, and such modifications are within the scope of the present invention. is there.

  10 Pachinko machines, 14 doors, 40 power switch, 41 RAM clear switch, 48 power supply unit, 50 game board, 52 game area, 59 normal symbol display device, 62 first start port, 63 second start port, 65 normal electric drive 110, entry determination means, 120 special game control means, 121 identification determination means, 122 specific game control means, 126 first lottery means, 128 second lottery means, 154 probability variation means, 156 entry variation means, 158 Game state holding means, 300 normal mode, 302 preparation mode, 304 continuous mode.

Claims (6)

A game board in which a game area is formed;
A start winning opening provided at a predetermined position in the game area, and a game ball entering is a lottery opportunity;
Triggering lottery means for determining whether or not to shift to a special game that is more advantageous to the player than a normal game, triggered by entering the starting winning opening,
Special game control means for executing the special game when the winning / failing lottery is a win,
A means for shifting the gaming state to any one of a plurality of types of gaming states at a predetermined gaming state transition timing, and the next winning lottery is won from the end of the special game until the predetermined first end is reached. Probability variation means for setting the probability of becoming a probability variation state higher than the normal probability state, and the ease of entering the starting prize opening from the end of the special game until the predetermined second end is reached. Specific game control means including a ball entry variation means for making a higher entry easier state;
When the winning / losing lottery is a win, the probability varying means is activated with a higher probability than the probability that the probability varying means is deactivated, and the probability varying means is activated and the entry varying means is deactivated. More advantageous to the player than the first gaming state, the second gaming state in which the probability changing means is inactive and the entry changing means is not in operation, and the entering changing means is in operation. The game state is determined based on the transition probability according to the game state at that time to be shifted to the third game state, which is the game state, and the first terminal state is reached in the first game state Specific determination means for making a decision to shift to the second gaming state if
Game state holding means for storing state information that can identify which state the gaming state is, and holding the state information at that time when the power is shut off;
Trigger control means for restoring the gaming state before power-off based on the state information stored in the gaming state holding means, triggered by the next power-on after power-off,
With
In the case of winning in the first gaming state, the specific determination means is configured to change the probability changing means and the input so as to shift to the first gaming state with a probability higher than the probability of shifting to the second gaming state or the third gaming state. Whether or not the ball changing means is activated is determined, and in the case of winning in the second gaming state, the probability variation so as to shift to the third gaming state with a higher probability than the probability of shifting to the first gaming state or the second gaming state. And determining whether or not the ball changing means is operated, and in the case of winning in the third gaming state, the third game has a higher probability than the probability of shifting to the first gaming state or the second gaming state after the special game. Determining whether or not the probability changing means and the ball changing means are to be moved to a state,
In response to the state information stored in the gaming state holding unit, the activation control unit has a different appearance from a normal appearance in response to the next power-on after power-off. A bullet ball game machine characterized by executing a control suggesting which game state is to be started by operating.   The special game control means may execute a special game with a relatively small profit in the case of winning in the first gaming state among a plurality of types of special games having different profits that can be obtained by the player. 2. The ball game machine according to claim 1, wherein there is a high possibility of executing a special game which is high and has a relatively large profit in the case of winning in the third gaming state. The gaming state holding means stores state information that can specify a state at the time of power interruption in a period until the first end when the power is cut off in the first gaming state,
The activation control means changes the operation of the object to be controlled according to the range of the remaining period from the power shutdown in the first gaming state to the first ending period, and from which state in the first gaming state The ball game machine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by suggesting whether the game is resumed. The activation control means includes
Based on a predetermined operation confirmation condition, execute an operation confirmation process for confirming normal operation of the gaming machine including the operation of the specific control target when the power is turned on,
The operation suggesting which game state is to be started is performed as a part of the operation of the specific control target performed in the execution process of the operation check process at power-on. 4. A ball game machine according to any one of 3 to 4. It further comprises an operation input means for receiving an external operation input,
The activation control means executes control that suggests a state in which the gaming state is started in a predetermined limited period triggered by a predetermined operation input made through the operation input means. The bullet ball game machine according to claim 1, wherein: As the start prize opening, a first start prize opening and a position different from the first start prize opening are provided at positions where it is difficult to enter a ball from the first start prize opening in a normal state. Including two starting prize openings,
The entry variation means is a state in which the ease of entering the second start winning opening is higher than the ease of entering the first start winning opening in the easy entry state,
The special game control means may be the first game if the hit is triggered by a ball entering the first starting winning award among a plurality of types of special games having different profits that can be obtained by the player. A special game with a relatively low profit is executed at a higher probability than the hit triggered by entering the starting start hole of No. 2, and the hit is triggered by entering the second starting prize opening. If so, a special game having a relatively large profit is executed with a higher probability than a hit triggered by entering the first start winning opening. Ball game machine.

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