JP2011217980A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To make a player expect continuation of a special game state to the number of times practically exceeding an upper limit value by giving the opportunity of determining to shift to a specified game state again immediately after the number of times of continuation of the special game state reaches the upper limit value.SOLUTION: Normal symbols are variably displayed on the basis of the passing of a game ball through a gate, a normal winning is generated in almost all cases in a high base state, and control is performed to a normal winning game state. When a game ball enters a normal variable winning ball device opened in the normal winning game state, special symbols are variably displayed, a big winning is generated in almost all cases, and control is performed to a big winning game state. While the high base state is attained after the end of the big winning game state before the number of times of the big winning becomes 30 times, sometimes a low base state is attained when it reaches 30 times. The big winning game state to be controlled to the low base state originally continues until a normal variable winning ball device is closed, however, when the game ball enters the normal variable winning ball device, it is forcibly ended at that point of time.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, which is shifted to a specific gaming state when a predetermined specific display result is derived, and is normally after the specific gaming state ends when a predetermined transition condition is satisfied. The present invention relates to a gaming machine that shifts to a special gaming state that is easier to shift to the specific gaming state than when it is in a state.

  As a gaming machine, a game ball, which is a game medium, is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game ball wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Furthermore, variable display means capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, and when the display result of the variable display of the identification information in the variable display means becomes a specific display result, a predetermined game value Are configured to give the player.

  The game value means that the state of the variable winning ball device provided in the gaming area of the gaming machine is advantageous for a player who is easy to win and a right to become advantageous for a player. Or a condition where a condition for paying out a prize ball is easily established.

  In a pachinko machine, a specific display mode determined in advance is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display of a special symbol (identification information) that is started by variable display means based on the winning of a game ball at the start winning opening. If this happens, a “big hit” will occur. The derived display is to stop and display the symbol. When the big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state where the hit ball is easy to win. Hereinafter, the opening period of the grand prize opening may be referred to as a round.

  Further, when a special condition is established such that the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a special specific display result (special display result) of the specific display results in the variable display means, the specific game state (big hit game) Some are configured to shift to a special gaming state (for example, a probable change state) that is advantageous to a player who easily shifts to (state). In order to prevent the special display result from occurring continuously, that is, to prevent the special game state from continuing for a long period of time, the number of consecutive occurrences of the special display result (continuation of the special game state) There is a gaming machine provided with a function (hereinafter referred to as a limiter function) that limits the number of times (equivalent to the number of times) (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  Further, as a gaming machine, there is a gaming machine in which the probability of winning a big hit is 100% when a predetermined condition is satisfied (see, for example, Patent Document 2). In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 2, the predetermined condition is that the ratio of the number of prize balls acquired by the player to the number of game balls used by the player has decreased. Furthermore, as a gaming machine, there is a gaming machine that is controlled in a low-probability state while the jackpot control is being performed even if the jackpot is generated with the probability improvement symbols to be controlled in a probabilistic state ( For example, see Patent Document 3).

JP 2008-295672 A (paragraph 0093) JP 2004-417 A (paragraph 0036) JP 11-333081 A (paragraph 0091)

  In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, only the number of continuations of the special game state is limited by the limiter function, but considering the disclosure of Patent Document 2, the termination condition of the special game state is satisfied (that is, It is conceivable to set the probability of a big hit until the limiter function is activated to 100%. Note that the operation of the limiter function means that the number of continuations of the special gaming state reaches a predetermined upper limit number (limit value).

  By the way, in a pachinko gaming machine, the start winning opening that generates a winning to start variable display of special symbols changes between an open state in which game balls are easy to win and a closed state in which it is difficult to win (or cannot win). In many cases, a variable winning device is provided. The variable winning device is opened when the display result of the variable display of the normal symbol different from the special symbol that is started based on the passing of the game ball through the gate different from the start winning opening becomes the predetermined display result. It is to be done.

  Here, the number of continuations of the special game state reaches the upper limit by the game ball that has won the starting prize opening while the variable winning device is in the open state, the special game state after the limiter function works and the jackpot game state ends (Probability fluctuation state) may not occur. If this jackpot game state continues until the variable winning device is closed, after the variable winning device is closed, it becomes a low probability state, and the chance of opening the next variable winning device is limited. End up. In such a situation, the player's sense of expectation cannot be satisfied, and there is a concern that the interest of the game may be reduced.

  The present invention provides an opportunity to decide to shift to the specific gaming state again immediately after the number of continuations of the special gaming state reaches the upper limit value, and the special gaming state is continued until the number of times that substantially exceeds the upper limit value. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine that makes a player expect this to improve the fun of gaming.

In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine according to the present invention provides:
Variable display means (special symbol) for starting the variable display of the identification information (special symbol) and deriving the display result based on the fact that the game medium (game ball) has entered the starting region (the winning region of the normal variable winning ball device 20). Display device 8), when a predetermined specific display result is derived to the variable display means, the specific game state (big hit game state) is shifted to, and when the predetermined transition condition is satisfied, the specific game A gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine 1) that shifts to a special gaming state (high base state) that is easier to shift to the specific gaming state than when it is in a normal state (low base state) after completion of the state,
It has the starting area and can be changed between a first state (open state) in which game media easily enter the start area and a second state (closed state) in which game media are difficult to enter or do not enter the start area. Start winning device (ordinary variable winning ball device 20),
A means for determining whether or not the start winning device is to be changed to the first state based on the establishment of the normal start condition (passage of the gates 35A and 35B). (1/250) decides to change to the first state, and when in the special gaming state, changes to the first state with a second probability (249/250) higher than the first probability. Ordinary predetermination means (game controlling microcomputer 560) for determining
Means for starting variable display of normal identification information (ordinary symbol) based on the determination result of the normal prior determination means and deriving the display result, and averaging the time from the start to the end of variable display of the normal identification information Is a normal variable display means (effect display device) that performs variable display of the normal identification information so that it is a first time when it is in the normal gaming state and a second time that is equal to or less than the first time when it is in the special gaming state. 9, normal symbol display 10),
Start winning device control means (game control microcomputer 560) for changing the start winning device to the first state in accordance with the display result derived to the normal variable display means;
The game medium has a specific area different from the start area, and the game medium enters the specific area from a state in which the game medium is difficult to enter or does not enter the specific area (closed state) when the game area is shifted to the specific game state. A specific winning device (special variable winning ball device 15) that can be changed to a state that is easy to play (open state)
Specific decision means (game control microcomputer) that decides whether or not to shift to the specific game state based on the fact that the game medium has entered the starting area before the display result is derived to the variable display means. 560 (steps S53 to S56)),
Variable display control means (game control microcomputer 560) for starting variable display of the identification information in the variable display means based on the determination result of the specific determination means and deriving the display result;
Specific game state control means (game control microcomputer 560) for controlling to the specific game state in accordance with the display result derived to the variable display means;
Numeric data changing means (game controlling microcomputer 560 (steps S61, S62)) for changing the value of predetermined numerical data,
The specific determination means includes
In almost all cases, it is determined to shift to the specific gaming state (see FIG. 23), and the type of the specific gaming state in the case of shifting to the specific gaming state is determined,
When the value of the predetermined numerical data (the value of the big hit number counter) is not the predetermined value (29), the type of the specific gaming state (corresponding to the type of big hit) is determined by the numerical data changing means. The specific game state (the big hit game state (FIG. 24) by the first big hit) that is updated so that the value of the numerical value data approaches the predetermined value and satisfies the predetermined transition condition after the end of the specific game state, Alternatively, the value of the predetermined numerical data is initialized by the numerical data changing means, and the specific gaming state (a big hit gaming state by a second big hit ( Fig. 24))
When the value of the predetermined numerical data is the predetermined value, the type of the specific gaming state is initialized by the numerical data changing means and the predetermined numerical data value is initialized by a predetermined end condition ( Either the specific gaming state (condition for ending the high base state) (the big hit gaming state by the second 2-B big hit (FIG. 24)) or the value of the predetermined numerical data is initialized by the numerical data changing means And determining whether or not the specific gaming state (the big hit gaming state by the second 2-A big hit (FIG. 24)) that does not satisfy the predetermined termination condition,
The gaming state control means shifts the gaming state after the specific gaming state is ended to the normal state when the specific deciding means has decided to establish the predetermined ending condition, and If it is determined by the determining means that the predetermined end condition is not satisfied, the game state after the end of the specific game state is transferred to the special game state assuming that the predetermined transfer condition is satisfied (game) Control microcomputer 560 (steps S234, S475, S477, S478): The high base state flag is not set in the case of the second-B big hit),
The specific game state control means has a period of time required from the start of variable display of the identification information in the variable display means to the end of control to the specific game state that satisfies the predetermined end condition. When the game medium does not enter the specific area while the specific winning device is being changed to a state where it is easy to enter the specific area, the start winning device starts to change to the first state. A period that is longer than the period required to end, and a period shorter than the period required from the start to change to the first state of the start winning device when the game medium enters the specific area. Thus, it is controlled to the specific gaming state (the total period from the start of variable symbol special display until the end of the big hit gaming state by the second-B big hit 8 5 seconds, although inherently longer than 8 seconds Average opening period, jackpot gaming state is terminated at that point in time when the game ball is finished in the special variable winning ball device 15 (FIG. 63))
It is characterized by that.

  In the above gaming machine, when it is determined that the start winning device is to be changed to the first state based on the establishment of the normal start condition, the start winning device is changed to the first state based on this, thereby entering the start region. It becomes easy for game media to enter. When a game medium enters the starting area and a specific display result is derived to the variable display unit based on the game medium, the specific game state is controlled. In addition, when a predetermined transition condition is satisfied, the game state is shifted to a special game state that is easier to shift to the specific game state than the normal game state after the specific game state ends.

  Here, when the specific display result is derived by the variable display means, it is determined that the transition to the specific game state is determined by the specific determination means, but the specific determination means is in the specific game state in almost all cases. And the type of the specific gaming state in the case of shifting to the specific gaming state is determined, but the type of the specific gaming state to be determined is the value of the predetermined numerical data being a predetermined value It depends on whether or not.

  When the value of the predetermined numerical data is not the predetermined value, the specific game state is established in which the predetermined end condition is satisfied although the value of the predetermined numerical data is updated so as to approach the predetermined value. However, when the value of the predetermined numerical data is a predetermined value, it may be determined that a specific gaming state is established that satisfies a predetermined end condition. If it is determined that the predetermined end condition is satisfied, the normal state is entered after the specific gaming state is ended.

  By the way, the start winning device is changed to the first state based on the determination of the normal prior determination means, so that the game medium can easily enter the start area, but from the start of the change of the variable winning device to the first state. A plurality of game media may enter the starting area by the end. Then, the value of the predetermined numerical data is a predetermined value in the determination of the specific determination means based on the entry of the game medium into the start area relatively early after the variable winning device is changed to the first state. As a result, the value of the predetermined numerical data may be initialized, and it may be determined that the specific gaming state satisfies the predetermined end condition.

  In this case, although the normal game state is controlled after the specific game state is ended, the value of the predetermined numerical data is initialized, so that the number of continuations of the special game state is newly counted from the beginning. Thus, the special gaming state can be continued until the predetermined number of times is reached. However, if the specific game state is ended as it is, the normal state is controlled after the specific game state is ended. When the normal gaming state is controlled, the probability that the normal predetermining means determines that the start winning device is changed to the first state is always the first probability. If it becomes like this, it will become difficult to control (or cannot be performed) even in the specific gaming state.

  On the other hand, in the above gaming machine, when it is determined that the specific gaming state that satisfies the predetermined ending condition is established, the variable display means displays the variable of the first identification information until the control of the specific gaming state is finished. The period required after starting is essentially a period longer than the period required from starting the change to the first state of the start winning device to ending it. If the specific gaming state that satisfies the predetermined termination condition is continued until the original period elapses, the gaming medium further enters the starting area until the change of the variable winning device to the first state is completed. However, after the special gaming state is completed, the specific determination means is not newly determined, and the normal state is controlled.

  However, if the game medium enters the specific area while the specific winning device is changed in the specific game state that satisfies the predetermined end condition, the identification information is displayed in the variable display means until the control of the specific game state is ended. The period required from the start of the variable display is shorter than the period required from the start of the change to the first state of the start winning device to the end thereof. In this case, the start winning device may still be changed to the first state even when the control to the specific gaming state that satisfies the predetermined termination condition is completed. If the game medium enters the starting area again before the change to the first state of the variable winning device is completed, the specific determination means is newly determined, and the identification based on the determination of the new specific determination means is performed. Since the special gaming state is controlled after the gaming state is finished, the special gaming state can be controlled when the change of the variable winning device to the first state is finished.

  In addition, even if it is determined by the determination of the new specific determination means that the specific game state is updated so that the value of the predetermined numerical data approaches the predetermined value, the specific game state that satisfies the predetermined end condition Since it is determined that the value of the predetermined numerical data is initialized, it is still far from the predetermined numerical data value becoming the predetermined value. Thereby, it is possible to increase the player's expectation by giving the opportunity for the special game state to continue until the number of times that substantially exceeds the upper limit value, and to improve the interest of the game.

  The start winning device may be constantly changed to the first state until the delay period is entered, or may be intermittently changed to the first state until the delay period is entered. Good. When changing to the first state intermittently, the transition to the delay period is made after the last change to the first state is completed. Similarly, in the case of a specific winning device, which will be described later, even when the game medium is changed to a state in which the game medium can easily enter the specific area when the game state is shifted to the specific game state, the game medium intermittently enters the specific area. It may be changed to an easy state.

The above gaming machine is
In the case of providing an effect means (effect control microcomputer 100) for performing a predetermined effect using an effect device (effect display device 9) provided in the gaming machine,
In the specific game state in which the value of the predetermined numerical data is initialized and the predetermined end condition is satisfied, the effect means enters the specific area while the specific winning device is changed. Sometimes, it is possible to execute a predetermined special effect (execution of special effect when a game ball wins a special variable winning ball device 15 (FIG. 63)).

In this case, it is clearly shown to the player that the special gaming state is continued until the number of times that the upper limit value is substantially exceeded, so that the player clearly shows the player's expectation for the continuation of the special gaming state. It can be further increased.
A means for giving a game medium to a player based on a game medium entering the winning area including the start area and the specific area, and when the game medium enters the start area, It may further include a game medium providing means (game control microcomputer 560) for giving a larger number of game media (4 and 15 respectively) than when the medium enters.

  In this case, when the start winning device is changed to the first state and the game medium enters the start area, an increase in the number of game media possessed by the player can be expected, and the interest of the game can be improved. .

In the above gaming machine,
Preferably, the start winning device control means changes the start winning device to the first state over a period (8 seconds) longer than the duration (1.5 seconds) of the specific gaming state.

  In this case, the continuation period of the specific gaming state that is always controlled to the normal state is shorter than the period in which the start winning device is changed to the first state and the game medium can enter the starting region, so that the normal state The period during which the player is controlled can be shortened, and the player's expectation can be enhanced.

The above gaming machine is
In the case of providing an effect means (effect control microcomputer 100) for performing a series of effects (continuous effects) using an effect device (effect display device 9) provided in the gaming machine,
The production means starts the series of productions on the condition that the special game state is entered (steps S924 to S927), and continuously executes the series of productions until a predetermined end condition is satisfied (steps). S958: In the case of the second-B big hit, the continuous production execution flag is reset and the production is not continued).

  In this case, it is possible to make the player pay attention to a series of effects in the effect device until the value of the numerical data reaches a predetermined value, and the effect of the player until the value of the numerical data reaches the predetermined value is further increased by the effect. Can be improved.

Also, the gaming machine is
In the case of providing an effect means (effect control microcomputer 100) for performing a predetermined effect using an effect device (effect display device 9) provided in the gaming machine,
The rendering means is configured such that when the value of the predetermined numerical data is not a predetermined value, the specific determining means initializes the value of the predetermined numerical data by the numerical data changing means and after the specific gaming state ends. An effect is provided to notify that it is determined to initialize the value of the predetermined numerical data at a time later than the time when it is determined that the specific gaming state (second big hit) is established to satisfy the predetermined transition condition. Delay notification means (production control microcomputer 100 (steps S643, S935 to S938)).

  In this case, it is possible to further improve the player's sense of expectation for the continuation of the special gaming state by shifting the timing for notifying that the value of the numerical data is initialized.

In the above gaming machine,
The game area includes a first area (a left area in the game area 7) and a second area (a right area in the game area 7) that the player can select as a launch destination of the game medium.
Both the specific winning device and the start winning device may be provided in any one of the first region and the second region (second region).

  In this case, the player may always aim at a specific area in the game area and launch the game medium in order to achieve the entry of the game medium into the start area and the entry of the game medium into the specific area. The game can be performed efficiently.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a relay board | substrate, an effect control board, a lamp driver board | substrate, and an audio | voice output board | substrate. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows a timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the change of a gaming state, etc. FIG. It is a timing chart for explaining variable display of normal symbols and decorative symbols, variable display of special symbols, normal hit gaming state, big hit gaming state, and high base / low base control. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a gate switch passage process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol hit determination process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the normal symbol hit determination table. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol fluctuation pattern setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol fluctuation | variation process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a process during normal electric-power-object opening. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit determination process. It is explanatory drawing which shows a jackpot determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the big hit classification determination table. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol change start process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows the big winning opening opening pre-processing. It is a flowchart which shows a big winning opening open process. It is a flowchart which shows a big winning opening open process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control main process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration design change start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the stop symbol of a decoration symbol. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a process table. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the production | presentation performed according to the content of a process table. It is a flowchart which shows a process during decoration design change. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration design change stop process. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol variation start designation command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change start corresponding | compatible process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change response process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a continuation effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a continuation effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a continuation effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a continuation effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a continuation effect. It is a flowchart which shows a continuation effect control process. It is a flowchart which shows a continuation effect control process. It is a flowchart which shows a part of command analysis process in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change start corresponding | compatible process in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows a part of continuation effect control process in 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an effect mode change process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern selected while being controlled by the jackpot game state in 4th Embodiment. It is a timing chart for demonstrating the variable display of a normal symbol and a decoration symbol, the variable display of a special symbol, the normal hit game state, the big hit game state, and the high base / low base control in the fourth embodiment. It is a timing chart for demonstrating the variable display of a normal symbol and a decoration symbol, the variable display of a special symbol, the normal hit game state, the big hit game state, and the high base / low base control in the fifth embodiment. It is a timing chart for demonstrating the variable display of a normal symbol and a decoration symbol, the variable display of a special symbol, the normal hit game state, the big hit game state, and the high base / low base control in the sixth embodiment. It is a timing chart for demonstrating the variable display of a normal symbol and a decoration symbol, the variable display of a special symbol, the normal hit game state, the big hit game state, and the high base / low base control in the seventh embodiment. It is a timing chart for demonstrating the variable display of a normal symbol and a decoration symbol, the variable display of a special symbol, the normal hit game state, the big hit game state, and the high base / low base control in the eighth embodiment.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1 that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as seen from the front.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be opened and closed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) installed to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts attached to them (excluding game boards described later). Is a structure including

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, an extra ball receiving tray (lower plate) 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hit ball supply tray 3 and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for launching the game balls are provided. . A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. In addition, a game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6 in which a game ball that has been struck can flow down.

  The member forming the lower plate 4 is configured in a stick shape (bar shape), for example, at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the lower plate body (for example, the central portion of the lower plate), and the player holds a plurality of pieces. A stick controller 122 that can be tilted in the direction (front / rear / left / right) is attached. The stick controller 122 includes an operation rod 122A held by the player, and a trigger button 121 is provided at a predetermined position of the operation rod 122A (for example, a position where the index finger of the operator is hooked when the player holds the operation rod 122A). (See FIG. 3). The trigger button 121 allows a predetermined instruction operation to be performed by performing a push-pull operation with a predetermined operation finger (for example, an index finger) while the player holds the operation rod 122A of the stick controller 122 with an operation hand (for example, the left hand). It is configured to be able to. A trigger sensor 125 (see FIG. 3) for detecting a predetermined instruction operation by a push-pull operation on the trigger button 121 or the like is built in the operation rod 122A. A tilt direction sensor unit 123 (see FIG. 3) for detecting a tilting operation with respect to the operating rod 122A is provided inside the main body of the lower pan below the stick controller 122. For example, the tilt direction sensor unit 123 includes two transmissive photosensors arranged in parallel to the board surface of the game board 2 on the left side of the center position of the operation rod 122A when viewed from the player's side facing the pachinko gaming machine 1. And four transmissive photosensors (vertical sensor pairs) arranged perpendicularly to the surface of the game board 6 on the right side of the center position of the operation rod 122A when viewed from the player side. Includes a transmissive photosensor. In addition, the attachment position of the stick controller 122 in the lower plate is not limited to the central portion of the lower plate, and may be a position near to the left or right.

  A member that forms the hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3 is, for example, a player who performs a predetermined instruction operation by a pressing operation or the like at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper plate body (for example, above the stick controller 122). A possible push button 120 is provided. The push button 120 mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically detects a predetermined instruction operation such as a pressing operation from a player. A push sensor 124 (see FIG. 3) for detecting a player's operation act on the push button 120 is provided inside the upper plate body at the position where the push button 120 is installed. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 1, the mounting positions of the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 are in a vertical positional relationship in the central portion of the upper plate and the lower plate. However, the position where the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 are attached may be shifted to either the left or right in the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4 while maintaining the vertical positional relationship. Further, the mounting positions of the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 are not in the vertical relationship, but may be in the horizontal relationship, for example.

  The trigger button 121 provided on the stick controller 122 is configured such that the player can perform an instruction operation by pushing and pulling with an operation finger while the player holds the operation rod 122A of the stick controller 122 with an operating hand. Yes. Further, the push button 120 is provided at a predetermined position of the glass door frame 2 forming the upper plate 3 separately from the stick controller 122. In a state where the player does not hold the operation rod 122A of the stick controller 122, the player can perform an instruction operation by depressing with an operating hand. Therefore, compared with the push button 120, the trigger button 121 is difficult to perform a continuous hitting operation that is a continuous instruction operation.

  Further, the stick controller 122 incorporates a vibrator motor 126 (see FIG. 3) for causing the stick controller 122 to vibrate. In this embodiment, for example, the center of gravity of the shaft of the vibrator motor 126 is biased or a weight is attached, and the vibrator motor 126 is rotationally controlled by the effect control microcomputer 100 to generate vibrations. Operate with vibration.

  Near the center of the game area 7 variably display a plurality of types of decorative decorations that can be identified based on the establishment of a predetermined starting condition (for example, the hit ball has passed the gate 32A or the gate 32B). An effect display device 9 for deriving and displaying the display result is arranged. In this embodiment, the effect display device 9 is configured by a liquid crystal display device (LCD), and is configured such that decorative symbols are displayed and controlled in three display areas (decorative symbol display areas) of left, middle, and right. Yes. The effect display device 9 that performs variable display of decorative symbols is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. Note that winning means that a game ball has entered a predetermined area such as a winning opening. Deriving and displaying the display result means stopping and displaying the symbol.

  In this embodiment, as the decorative symbols displayed in the three display areas of the effect display device 9, the symbols of the numbers “0” to “9” are used. During variable display (fluctuation) of decorative symbols, in principle, decorative symbols “0” to “9” are displayed in numerical order.

  A special symbol display (special symbol display device) 8 that variably displays a special symbol as identification information is provided on the right side of the effect display device 9. In this embodiment, the special symbol display 8 is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers “0” to “9”, for example. The special symbol display 8 may be configured to variably display more types of numbers such as “0” to “99” in order to make it difficult for the player to grasp a specific stop symbol. The special symbol display 8 that performs variable display of the special symbols is controlled by a game control microcomputer mounted on the game control board.

  In the effect display device 9, effect display related to variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 is also performed.

  A gate 32B is formed on the upper right side in the game area 7. The game ball that has passed through the gate 32B is detected by the gate switch 32b and then flows downward. A special variable winning ball apparatus (corresponding to a big winning opening) 15 is provided below the gate 32B. The game ball that has won the special variable winning ball device 15 is led to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the big winning opening switch 14a. The special variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened by a solenoid 16. When the special variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the gaming ball can be won, which is advantageous for the player.

  As shown in FIG. 1, an ordinary variable winning ball device 20 is provided below the special variable winning ball device 15 at the lower right in the game area 7. The normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 includes an opening / closing plate. When the symbol is derived and displayed on the normal symbol display 10, the opening / closing plate is controlled to be opened by the solenoid 21, so that the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is opened. It becomes a state. The game ball that has won the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is detected by the winning port switch 23. In the state where the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is in the closed state, the gaming ball cannot be won. However, in a state in which the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is in the closed state, it may be configured so that it is possible to win although it is difficult to win (that is, the game ball is difficult to win).

  On the left side of the effect display device 9, a normal symbol display 10 for variably displaying normal symbols is provided. In this embodiment, the normal symbol display 10 is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the normal symbol display 10 is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) “0” to “9”. Moreover, the small display is formed in, for example, a square shape. The normal symbol display 10 may be configured to variably display numbers (or two-digit symbols) from “00” to “99”, for example. Further, the normal symbol display 10 is not limited to the 7-segment LED, and is, for example, a display capable of lighting a predetermined symbol display (for example, a decoration lamp capable of alternately lighting and displaying “O” and “X”). It may be configured.

  Below the effect display device 9, a gate 32A is formed. The game ball that has passed through the gate 32A is detected by the gate switch 32a and then flows downward.

  Further, the special variable winning ball device 15 and the ordinary variable winning ball device 20 constitute a winning area that accepts a game ball and allows winning. When the normal variable winning ball device 20 is in the closed state, the game ball will not win the normal variable winning ball device 20, so the player aims at the right side area (second area) of the game area 7. Instead, the game ball is launched aiming at the left area (first area), and the game ball is caused to flow down from the first area to the area where the gate 32A is provided. Although not shown in FIG. 1, it is preferable that one or more normal winning holes are provided in the first region. Further, when a game ball passes through a gate provided in the first area, a predetermined number of prize balls may be paid out. This is because the player can be more likely to launch a game ball aiming at the first area. Further, the gate 32B and the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 may be provided in the left area of the game area 7. Further, the first area and the second area are not limited to the left side and the right side of the game area 7. Two areas other than the left side and the right side of the game area 7 may be designated as the first area and the second area on condition that the player can change the target area of the game ball.

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32A or the gate 32B and is detected by the gate switch 32a or the gate switch 32b, the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the normal winning game state as the special gaming state is entered. The normal winning gaming state includes a normal opening period in which the state of the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is changed to an open state, and a normal closing period in which the state of the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is maintained in a closed state after the normal opening period. There is. Even if the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is always open during the normal opening period, the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is intermittently opened (the normal opening period is until the final opening state ends). (In this embodiment, the former is assumed). Regardless of whether it is a normal opening period or a normal closing period, the game ball passes through the gates 32A and 32B even if the gate passing memory number is 1 or more while being controlled to the normal hit gaming state. Even so, the new variable display is not started on the normal symbol display 10.

  In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, there is provided a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls (number of gate passages) that have passed through the gates 32A and 32B. Each time a game ball passes to the gate 32A or the gate 32B, the normal symbol storage memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time the variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one. In this embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of gate passages is 4. However, the upper limit value may be larger. Further, the upper limit value may be changed according to the gaming state.

  The display screen of the effect display device 9 is provided with an area (hereinafter referred to as a normal symbol hold storage display unit 18d) for displaying the number of gate passages stored (the number of normal symbol reservations stored). The same number of LED lightings on the normal symbol storage memory display 41 is displayed on the normal symbol storage memory display 18d.

  In this embodiment, the effect display device 9 performs variable display of decorative symbols as decorative (effect) symbols during the normal symbol variable display period by the normal symbol display 10. That is, the variable display of the normal symbol by the normal symbol display 10 and the variable display of the decorative symbol by the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Note that the normal symbol display 10 that performs variable display of normal symbols is controlled by a game control microcomputer mounted on the game control board.

  At the lower part of the game area 7 of the game board 6, there is an out port 26 into which a hit ball that has not won a prize is taken. In addition, four speakers 27 that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the upper left and right and lower left and right outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a frame LED 28 provided on the front frame is provided.

  In the gaming machine, a ball striking device (not shown) that drives a driving motor in response to a player operating the batting operation handle 5 and uses the rotational force of the driving motor to launch a gaming ball to the gaming area 7. ) Is provided. A game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 7 through a ball striking rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then descends the game area 7. If the game ball passes through the gate 32A or the gate 32B and is detected by the gate switch 32a or the gate switch 32b, it is in a state where variable display of the normal symbol can be started (for example, not the opening operation of the normal variable winning ball device 20) When the normal symbol variable display is not executed), the normal symbol hit determination is performed. In this embodiment, the probability that the normal symbol is a hit (ordinary symbol winning probability) is 1/250 when the gaming state is the low base state, and the gaming state is the high base state (normal in this embodiment) When the symbol variation time is shortened compared to the normal gaming state, it is also a short state. Then, when variable display (variation) of the normal symbol is started on the normal symbol display device 10, variable display of the decorative symbol is started on the effect display device 9. If the normal symbol variable display cannot be started, the gate passing storage number for the normal symbol holding storage display 41 is increased by one. In this embodiment, the state that is in the short time state (high base state) corresponds to the special gaming state, and the gaming state that is not the special gaming state corresponds to the normal gaming state (normal state).

  In addition, the winning probability of the normal symbol when the gaming state is the low base state is not reduced to 1/250, and the winning probability of the normal symbol is regardless of whether the gaming state is the low base state or the high base state. May always be a ratio close to 100%. In that case, two types of opening patterns are used as the opening patterns of the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 when the winning is achieved. One opening pattern is a long-term opening pattern with a long opening period (a large number of opening times, or a long opening time, or a large number of opening times and a long opening time), and the other opening pattern is This is a short-period opening pattern in which the opening period is short (the number of times of opening is small, or the opening time of one time is short, or the number of times of opening is small and the opening time is short). When the opening of the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is controlled by the short period opening pattern, the opening period is controlled to be a short period such that there is almost no possibility that the game ball will win the ordinary variable winning ball apparatus 20. The game control microcomputer 560, when starting the change of the normal symbol, loses by lottery (the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is not released), either a short-term release pattern or a long-term release pattern hit. Decide on. In that case, it is preferable that the fluctuation result (stop symbol) of the normal symbol is a symbol corresponding to each of a hit, a hit with a short-term open pattern, and a hit with a long-term open pattern. In the high base state, a hit with an open pattern for a long time is selected at a higher rate (for example, 100% or a rate close to 100%) than in the low base state. A hit with a short-term open pattern is selected at a high rate (for example, 95%) and a hit with a long-term open pattern is selected at a low rate (for example, less than 1%) as compared to the state.

  When a game ball is won in the normal variable winning ball apparatus (which forms a winning area and a starting area) 20 and is detected by the winning opening switch 23, 15 prize balls are paid out to the player and special The symbol jackpot determination is performed. In this embodiment, the probability that the special symbol will be a big hit is 98/100 (98%) when the gaming state is the normal state, and 1/1 (100%) when the gaming state is the probable state. . That is, it is determined that it is a big hit in almost all cases. When it is decided to win, the type of jackpot (type of jackpot) is determined. Unlike the passing of game balls through the gates 32A and 32B, the winning of a game ball to the normal variable winning ball device 20 is not stored on hold.

  The winning probability of the special symbol when the gaming state is the normal state is not set to 98%, but the winning probability of the special symbol is always 100% regardless of whether the gaming state is the normal state or the probable state. It may be. In that case, for example, if it is decided to provide a number of types of jackpots (for example, those that will be in a high base state and those that will not be in a high base state after the jackpot), and that it will be a jackpot that will not be in a high base state So that there is no big hit.

  When the change of the special symbol is started based on the winning of the game ball to the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20, the stop symbol is derived and displayed after a predetermined time has elapsed. If it is decided to win, the special symbol display 8 derives and displays the big hit symbol as a special symbol stop symbol, and shifts to the big hit gaming state as the specific gaming state. Also in the big hit game state, there are a special opening period in which the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 is changed to an open state, and a special closing period in which the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 is maintained in a closed state after the special opening period. In the special opening period, the jackpot game is continued for two rounds. In this embodiment, until a predetermined period (for example, 0.5 seconds) elapses after the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened, or a predetermined number (for example, one) of hit balls is a big prize opening (special variable winning prize). Until the ball device 15) is won, it is one round in the jackpot game.

  Note that the period during which the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened per round (round period) in the special opening period is arbitrary. The number of rounds is also arbitrary and may be one round (that is, the special variable winning ball device 15 may be always open during the special opening period). Further, the jackpot gaming state may include only a special opening period and no special closing period (the final opening state ends and the jackpot gaming state also ends). Further, the number of prizes that can be awarded to the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 in the round period is arbitrary and may not be one. When a game ball wins the special variable winning ball device 15 in the round period, four prize balls are paid out per winning. Regardless of whether it is a special opening period or a special closing period, even if a game ball wins the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 while it is controlled in the jackpot gaming state, a new symbol is displayed on the special symbol display 8. The variable display is not started.

  If the big hit is a big hit corresponding to changing the gaming state to the high base state, the gaming state is shifted to the high base state when the big hit gaming state ends. When the gaming state is in the high base state, the probability that the stop symbol of the normal symbol becomes a winning symbol is 249/250, so that when the game ball passes through the gate 32A or the gate 32B, it is almost a hit. When winning, the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is opened, and when the game ball wins, the big hit determination and the big hit type determination are performed.

  If the big hit is a big hit corresponding to changing the gaming state to the low base state, the gaming state is shifted to the low base state when the big hit gaming state ends. When the gaming state is in the low base state, the probability that the stop symbol of the normal symbol becomes a winning symbol is 1/250, so the possibility that the gaming ball will hit even if it passes through the gates 32A, 32B is low, The possibility that the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is opened is low. As a result, it is difficult for a game ball to be won in the starting area, so that it is difficult to shift to the big hit gaming state.

  As described above, in this embodiment, in the low base state, the probability that the normal symbol is hit is low, but once the normal symbol is hit, the gaming state is changed to the high base state with a very high probability. Become. As a result, normal symbol hits occur continuously. In this embodiment, if the big hit is continuously generated for a predetermined number of times (in this embodiment, 30 times) in the high base state, the gaming state may shift to the low base state.

  Note that while being controlled to the big hit gaming state, the normal state (low probability state) and the low base state are controlled. Accordingly, when a new variable display is started on the normal symbol display 10 while being controlled to the big hit gaming state, the winning probability at that time becomes 1/250, so that it is almost lost, and the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is never opened. However, in this embodiment, a new variable display is not started on the normal symbol display 10 while being controlled to the big hit gaming state as will be described later.

  Next, the stop symbol of the normal symbol, the stop symbol of the special symbol, and the stop symbol of the decorative symbol will be described.

(1) Stop symbol for normal symbol:
Normal symbols variably displayed on the normal symbol display 10 are “0” to “9”. Of these, “7” is a winning symbol, and the others are outliers.

(2) Special design stop design:
As described above, the special symbols variably displayed on the special symbol display 8 are “0” to “9”. Of these, “1” is the first jackpot symbol, “3” is the second jackpot symbol, “5” is the second-A jackpot symbol, and “7” is the second-B jackpot symbol. . Also, the off symbol is “0”.

(3) Decorative design stop pattern:
As described above, the left, middle and right decorative symbols variably displayed on the effect display device 9 are “0” to “9”, respectively. Here, the off-design symbol is a symbol (for example, “358” or the like) in which the left, middle, and right ornament symbols are not aligned with the same symbol. It should be noted that the left and right decorative symbols are aligned in the same pattern (that is, reach), but the state in which only the decorative symbols in the middle are not aligned is also an outlier. The decorative symbol hit symbol is a symbol in a state where the left, middle, and right decorative symbols are aligned in the same symbol.

  In this embodiment, the stop symbol of the normal symbol and the stop symbol of the decorative symbol correspond to each other. That is, when the stop symbol of the normal symbol becomes a disjoint symbol, the stop symbol of the ornament symbol becomes a disjoint symbol, and when the stop symbol of the normal symbol becomes a hit symbol, the stop symbol of the ornament symbol also becomes a hit symbol.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. 2 also shows the payout control board 37, the effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to include the RAM 55 in addition to at least the CPU 56, and the ROM 54 may be external or internal. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached.

  The game control microcomputer 560 further includes a random number circuit 503 that generates hardware random numbers.

  In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 54, so that the game control microcomputer 560 (or CPU 56) executes (or performs processing) hereinafter. Specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

  Further, an input driver circuit 58 for supplying detection signals from the gate switches 32 a and 32 b, the big prize opening switch 14 a and the prize opening switch 23 to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. The main circuit board 31 also includes an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 and the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 (open / close plate) in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560. It is mounted on.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 performs display control of the special symbol display 8 that variably displays the special symbol, the normal symbol display 10 that variably displays the normal symbol, and the normal symbol hold storage display 41.

  An information output circuit (not shown) that outputs an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer is also mounted on the main board 31.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (configured by the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. The display control of the effect display device 9 which receives and variably displays the decorative design is performed.

  Further, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the frame LED 28 provided in the game frame via the lamp driver board 35 and displays the LED provided on the board side. Take control. Further, the sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled via the sound output board 70.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

  The effect control board 80 is equipped with an effect control microcomputer 100 including an effect control CPU 101 and a RAM (not shown). The RAM may be externally attached. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and receives a capture signal from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77 ( In response to the (effect control INT signal), an effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103. Further, the effect control CPU 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the effect display device 9 based on the effect control command.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the effect display device 9 in cooperation with the effect control microcomputer 100 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the production control microcomputer 100, and maps a VRAM therein. VRAM is a buffer memory for developing image data. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the effect display device 9 via the frame memory.

  The effect control CPU 101 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for reading out necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM stores in advance character image data and moving image data to be displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols, etc. (including decorative symbols), and background image data. ROM. The VDP 109 reads image data from the CGROM in response to the instruction from the effect control CPU 101. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data.

  The effect control command and the effect control INT signal are first input to the input driver 102 on the effect control board 80. The input driver 102 passes the signal input from the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the inside of the effect control board 80 (does not pass the signal in the direction from the inside of the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). It is also a unidirectional circuit as a regulating means.

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 3 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the LED to the lamp driver board 35 via the output port 105. Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 104.

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the LED is input to the LED driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED driver 352 amplifies a signal for driving the LED and supplies the amplified signal to each LED provided on the panel side. Moreover, it supplies to frame LED28 provided in the frame side.

  In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input driver 702. The voice synthesizing IC 703 generates voice or sound effect according to the sound number data and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speaker 27. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data. The control data corresponding to the sound number data is a collection of data indicating the sound effect or sound output mode in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, a decorative symbol variation period).

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as a signal indicating that the player's operation on the trigger button 121 is detected from the trigger sensor 125 via the input port 106. Further, the effect control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as a signal indicating that a player's operation on the push button 120 is detected from the push sensor 124 via the input port 106. Further, the effect control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as a signal indicating that the player's operation on the operation rod 122 </ b> A of the stick controller 122 is detected from the tilt direction sensor unit 123 via the input port 106. Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a drive signal to the vibrator motor 126 via the output port 105 in order to cause the stick controller 122 to vibrate.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the CPU 56 in the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When power is supplied to the gaming machine and power supply is started, the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, and the gaming control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) After executing a security check process, which is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid, the main process after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (step S3). After initialization of the built-in device (CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port), which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits)) is performed (step S4), the RAM is accessible (Step S5). In the interrupt mode 2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) built in the CPU 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is This mode indicates an interrupt address.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks the state of the output signal of the clear switch (for example, mounted on the power supply board) input via the input port (step S6). When the ON is detected in the confirmation, the CPU 56 executes a normal initialization process (steps S10 to S15, including S44 and S45).

  If the clear switch is not on, check whether data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) was performed when power supply to the gaming machine was stopped (Step S7). When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process.

  When it is confirmed that the power supply stop process has been performed, the CPU 56 performs data check of the backup RAM area (step S8). In this embodiment, a parity check is performed as a data check. Therefore, in step S8, the calculated checksum is compared with the checksum calculated and stored by the same process in the power supply stop process. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area is different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, an initialization process that is executed when the power is turned on is not performed when the power supply is stopped.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 recovers the game state restoration process (steps S41 to S43) for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electrical component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. Process). Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S41), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55) (step S42). ). The work area is backed up by a backup power source. In the backup setting table, initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set. As a result of the processing in steps S41 and S42, the saved contents of the work area that should not be initialized remain as they are. The part that should not be initialized is, for example, data indicating the gaming state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, normal symbol process flag, probability variation flag, etc.), and the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output) Port buffer), a portion in which data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (step S43). Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

  In this embodiment, it is confirmed whether the data in the backup RAM area is stored using both the backup flag and the check data. However, only one of them may be used. That is, either the backup flag or the check data may be used as an opportunity for executing the game state recovery process.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). The RAM clear process initializes predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a big hit determination random number) to 0, but is initialized to an arbitrary value or a predetermined value. You may make it do. Alternatively, the entire area of the RAM 55 may not be initialized, and predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a big hit determination random number) may be left as it is. Further, the start address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area (step S12).

  By the processing of steps S11 and S12, for example, a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol buffer, a total prize ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, an award ball flag, a ball out flag, and a payout stop An initial value is set to a flag such as a flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state.

  Further, the CPU 56 initializes a sub board (a board on which a microcomputer other than the main board 31 is mounted) (a command indicating that the game control microcomputer 560 has executed an initialization process). Is also transmitted to the sub-board (step S13). For example, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the initialization designation command, the effect display device 9 performs screen display for notifying that the control of the gaming machine has been performed, that is, initialization notification.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a random number circuit setting process for initial setting of the random number circuit 503 (step S14). For example, the CPU 56 performs setting according to the random number circuit setting program to cause the random number circuit 503 to update the value of the random R (big hit determination random number).

  In step S15, the CPU 56 sets a CTC register built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every predetermined time (for example, 4 ms). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 4 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every 4 ms.

  When the execution of the initialization process (steps S10 to S15) is completed, the CPU 56 repeatedly executes the display random number update process (step S17) and the initial value random number update process (step S18) in the main process. When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are executed, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S16). Set (step S19). In this embodiment, the display random number is a random number for determining a variation pattern (variation pattern determination random number), and the display random number update process is a count value of a counter for generating a display random number. Is a process of updating. The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. In this embodiment, the initial value random number is the initial value of the count value of the counter for generating a random number for determining whether or not to win for a normal symbol (normal random number generation counter for normal symbol determination). This is a random number for determination (random 3 initial value determination random number). A game control process for controlling the progress of the game, which will be described later (the game control microcomputer 560 controls game devices such as an effect display device, a variable winning ball device, a ball payout device, etc. provided in the game machine itself. In the process of transmitting a command signal to be controlled by another microcomputer, or a game machine control process), the count value of the random number for determination per normal symbol is one round (the random number for determination per normal symbol is taken). When the value is incremented by the number of values between the minimum value and the maximum value of the possible values), an initial value is set in the counter.

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process in steps S21 to S35 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal has been output (whether or not an on-state has been turned on) is executed (step S21). The power-off signal is output when, for example, a voltage drop monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a drop in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals from the gate switches 32a and 32b, the big prize opening switch 14a, and the prize opening switch 23 are inputted through the input driver circuit 58, and the state determination is performed (switch processing: step S22).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes a display control process for controlling the display of the special symbol display 8, the normal symbol display 10, and the normal symbol hold storage display 41 (step S23). For the special symbol display 8 and the normal symbol display 10, control for outputting a drive signal to each display is executed according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S33 and S34.

  Next, processing for updating the count value of each counter for generating random numbers for determination such as random numbers for determining jackpot symbols used for game control is performed (determination random number update processing: step S24). The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number update process, display random number update process: steps S25 and S26).

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Determine type of jackpot (for determining jackpot type)
(2) Random 2: Determine the variation pattern of normal symbols (for variation pattern determination)
(3) Random 3: Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(4) Random 4: Determine initial value of random 3 (for determining random 3 initial value)

  In step S24 in the game control process shown in FIG. 5, the CPU 56 counts up the counter for generating (1) the big hit type determining random number and (3) the normal symbol determining random number (add 1). )I do. That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers or initial value random numbers. In order to enhance the game effect, random numbers other than the random numbers (1) to (4) may be used. In this embodiment, the big hit determination random number is a random number generated by the hardware (random number circuit 503) built in the game control microcomputer 560. The big hit determination random number is generated by the CPU 56 based on the program. A generated software random number may be used. In this case, it is preferable that the initial value of the big hit determination random number is changed (updated) using a software random number (big hit determination initial value determination random number) for determining the initial value of the big hit determination random number.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S27). In the special symbol process, the corresponding symbol is executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special winning award (special variable winning ball device 15) in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Next, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S28). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes a corresponding process according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the normal symbol display 10 and the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  In addition, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command related to display control of decorative symbols in the effect display device 9 (effect control command control process: step S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (step S30).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on the detection signals of the big prize opening switch 14a and the prize opening switch 23 (step S31). More specifically, the number of winning balls is indicated on the payout control microcomputer mounted on the payout control board 37 in response to detection of winning based on either the big winning opening switch 14a or the winning opening switch 23 being turned on. A payout control command (prize ball number signal) is output. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

  In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the CPU 56 relates to on / off of the solenoid in the RAM area corresponding to the output state of the output port. The contents are output to the output port (step S32: output processing).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol display control processing for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of the special symbol in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data according to the value of the special symbol process flag ( Step S33).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in an output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S34).

  Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S35), and the process is terminated.

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 4 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes in steps S22 to S34 (excluding step S30) in the timer interrupt process. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram for explaining changes in gaming state and the like.

  As shown in FIG. 7A, based on the fact that the game ball has passed the gate 32A or the gate 32B, a lottery regarding the normal symbol is executed, and based on the fact that the lottery result is a win, the normal variable winning ball device 20 is opened.

  Based on the fact that the game ball has won the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 corresponding to the starting port, a lottery regarding a special symbol is executed, and the first big jackpot of the big jackpot (whether to shift to the promiscuous state after the big jackpot gaming state? Or the value of the big hit number counter is updated. Specifically, +1 is added. The value of the big hit count counter when it is decided to change to the second big hit of big hits (the big hit that shifts to the normal state (non-probability change state) after the big hit gaming state or the normal state continues) Is initialized. Specifically, it is set to 0. Even if it is decided to win any of the big hits, the gaming state (base state) is shifted to the high base state, or the high base state continues.

  The above control is executed when the value of the big hit number counter does not reach a predetermined value (29 in this embodiment). When the value of the big hit counter reaches a predetermined value, as shown in FIG. 7 (B), a lottery regarding a special symbol is executed based on the fact that a game ball has won the normal variable winning ball device 20, If it is decided to make the 2-A big hit of the big hits, the high base state is continued after the big hit gaming state. If it is decided to make the 2nd-B big hit among the big hits, it shifts to the low base state after the big hit gaming state. Even if it is decided to win any of the big hits, the gaming state (probability variation / non-probability variation state) becomes the non-probability variation state after the big hit gaming state. In other words, when the limiter is activated, the gaming state shifts from the probability variation state to the non-probability variation state. Even if it is decided to make any big hit, the value of the big hit number counter is initialized. Specifically, it is set to 0. Note that “the limiter is activated” means that the number of jackpots that can be generated in the special gaming state becomes a limit value. However, in this embodiment, even if the number of jackpots reaches the limit value, the base state may remain in the high base state (specifically, when the second-A jackpot occurs).

  In addition, after the first big hit or the second big hit occurs for the first time, the gaming state is always the special gaming state (specifically, the high base state) until the limiter is activated. It means that the number of big hits that can be generated in the special game state becomes a limit value.) It is relatively advantageous for the player that the second big hit occurs immediately before. This is because the special game state continues for a long period of time, the value of the big hit counter is initialized to 0, and the high base state is maintained. The high base state is a state in which a game ball is likely to win the normal variable winning ball device 20 (see FIG. 14A), and when a game ball wins the normal variable winning ball device 20 (starting area). In the case where a game ball is won), it is a big hit at a rate of almost 100% (see FIG. 23), and there is a high possibility that the game state will shift to the special game state again (see FIG. 24). Also, the occurrence of the first big hit (see FIG. 24) in the special game state is not very advantageous for the player. This is because the value of the big hit number counter approaches the limit value that will cause the gaming state to shift to the uncertain change state.

  FIG. 8 is a timing chart for explaining the variable display of the normal symbol and the decorative symbol, the variable display of the special symbol, the normal hit gaming state, the big hit gaming state, and the high base / low base control. In FIG. 8, it is assumed that the lottery for the special symbol will not result in the second-B jackpot.

  As shown in FIG. 8, when the game ball passes through the gate 32A or the gate 32B, if the normal symbol can be changed, the normal symbol display 10 and the effect display device 9 may change the normal symbol and the decorative symbol. Executed. When the display result of the normal symbol is a winning symbol, the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is controlled to be open for a predetermined period (8 seconds in this embodiment). However, the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 does not end the normal hit gaming state at the end of the open state, but after being kept closed for a predetermined period (3 seconds in this embodiment) after that, The winning gaming state ends. While the normally variable winning ball device 20 is controlled to be in the open state, the game ball can win (pass) in the starting area, and the starting condition of the special symbol can be satisfied.

  If the special symbol display 8 is in a state where the variation of the special symbol can be started, the special symbol display 8 will display a special symbol based on the establishment of the special symbol start condition (the winning of the game ball to the normal variable winning ball device 20). The symbol variation is executed. When the display result of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the game is shifted to the jackpot gaming state. That is, the special winning opening (special variable winning ball apparatus 15) is controlled to be in an open state for a predetermined number of times (for example, twice) with a closing time of a predetermined time (in this embodiment, 0.2 seconds). The opening time is 0.5 seconds in this embodiment. Further, after the second open state ends, the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 is maintained in the closed state for a predetermined time (in this embodiment, 0.3 seconds), and then the big hit gaming state is ended.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the time during which the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is in the open state is longer than the special symbol variation time (always 0.5 seconds in this embodiment). Therefore, even if the variable variable winning ball apparatus 20 wins the game ball and the execution condition (corresponding to the start condition) of the special symbol is established, even if the display result of the special symbol is deviated and determined as the symbol, the normal variable winning symbol There is a high possibility that a game ball will win the normal variable winning ball device 20 again while the ball device 20 is in the open state, and the execution condition of the special symbol variation will be satisfied. As will be described later, in the normal state (non-probability variation state), the probability that the display result of the special symbol is determined to be a big hit symbol is 98%. Therefore, even if the display result of the special symbol is determined to be out of place, There is a high possibility that the display result of the special symbol is determined as a big hit symbol based on the winning of the game ball to the normal variable winning ball device 20. That is, in this embodiment, when the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is in the open state, a big hit will almost always occur.

  In addition, the total time (0.5 + 0.5 + 0.2 + 0.5 + 0.3 = 2 seconds) from the start of the special symbol variation display on the special symbol display 8 to the end of the jackpot gaming state is a normal variable prize. It is shorter than the time (3 seconds) that the ball device 20 is kept closed from the end of the open state to the end of the normal hit gaming state. Therefore, even if the game ball is won immediately before the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is changed from the open state to the closed state, and the special symbol is variably displayed on the special symbol display 8 based on this, even if it is controlled to the jackpot gaming state. The jackpot gaming state is always finished before the normal jackpot gaming state is finished and a new variable display can be started on the regular symbol display 8. Therefore, when a new variable display is started on the normal symbol display 9, it is not always controlled to the big hit gaming state (in this case, the low probability low base).

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command sent to the effect control board 80. In this embodiment, the effect control command has a 2-byte configuration. The first byte represents MODE (command classification), and the second byte represents EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always “1”, and the first bit (bit 7) of the EXT data is always “0”. Note that such a command form is an example, and other command forms may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.

  In the example shown in FIG. 9, the command 80XX (H) is an effect control command (variation pattern command) for designating a variation pattern of a decorative symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in synchronization with variable display of a normal symbol. (Corresponding to the variation pattern XX, respectively). The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the start of variation of the decorative pattern.

  Commands 8B00 (H) and 8B01 (H) are effect control commands for designating the contents of the stop symbol (display result) of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display 10. That is, it is an effect control command that indicates whether to make a difference or a win. Hereinafter, the commands 8B00 (H) and 8B01 (H) may be referred to as normal symbol display result specifying commands.

  Commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H) are effect control commands for designating the contents of the special symbol stop symbol (display result) in the special symbol display 8. That is, it is an effect control command indicating whether to make a disengagement, a first big hit, a second big hit, a second 2-A big hit, or a second 2-B big hit. Hereinafter, the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H) may be referred to as display result specifying commands.

  The command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation specifying command) for notifying the stop of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display 10 and designating the stop of variable display (fluctuation) of the decorative symbol on the effect display device 9.

  The command 8F01 (H) is an effect control command (special symbol variation start designation command) for notifying the special symbol variation start in the special symbol display 8. The command 8F02 (H) is an effect control command (special symbol variation end designation command) for notifying the end of variation of the special symbol in the special symbol display 8.

  Command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (initialization designation command: power-on designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Command 9200 (H) is an effect control command (power failure recovery designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is resumed. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command if data is stored in the backup RAM, and otherwise transmits an initialization designation command.

  The command 9F00 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating display during the customer waiting demonstration.

  Command A001 (H) is an effect control command (fanfare designation command) that designates that the big hit gaming state is started.

  The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (designating command during opening of a big prize opening) that designates display during a round in a two-round jackpot game. Command A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big prize opening) that designates display after the round (display of the interval between rounds) in the two round jackpot game. Note that the number of rounds displayed in “XX” is set.

  Command A301 (H) is an effect control command (ending designation command) that designates that the big hit game is to end.

  The command B0XX (H) is a command (a jackpot number designation command) for designating the number of jackpot occurrences in the special gaming state. Note that the game control microcomputer 560 may not transmit the jackpot number designation command, and the effect control microcomputer 100 may count the number of jackpot occurrences in the special game state. Further, the game control microcomputer 560 may transmit an effect control command indicating that the limiter is activated when the number of jackpot occurrences reaches a limit value (for example, 30). In that case, specifically, after the value of the big hit number counter reaches 29, when a big hit occurs, an effect control command indicating the operation of the limiter is transmitted.

  Command C4XX (H) is an effect control command (ordinary symbol reserved memory number designation command) for designating the number of gate winning memorized numbers (ordinary symbol reserved memory number) indicated by XX. Command C501 (H) is an effect control command (ordinary symbol reserved memory number subtraction designation command) for designating subtraction (decrease by 1) of the gate winning memorization number.

  When the effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the above-described effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31, for example, the contents shown in FIG. Accordingly, the display state of the effect display device 9 is changed, the display state of the LED is changed, and the sound number data is output to the audio output board 70.

  In this embodiment, the presentation control command has a 2-byte structure, the first byte represents MODE (command classification), and the second byte represents EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always set to “1”, and the first bit (bit 7) of the EXT data is always set to “0”. Note that such a command form is an example, and other command forms may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.

  In addition, as the transmission method of the effect control command, the effect control command data is output from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 via the relay board 77 by the eight parallel signal lines of the effect control signals CD0 to CD7, In addition to the effect control command data, a method of outputting a pulse-shaped (rectangular wave-shaped) capture signal (effect control INT signal) for instructing capture of the effect control command data is used. The 8-bit effect control command data of the effect control command is output in synchronization with the effect control INT signal. The effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 detects that the effect control INT signal has risen, and starts a 1-byte data capturing process through an interrupt process.

  Next, the normal symbol process (step S28) executed by the CPU 56 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol process. In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 detects that the gate 32 (gate 32A or gate 32B) is turned on, that is, that the game ball has passed through the gate 32 (step S111). S112) is executed. Thereafter, any one of steps S100 to S104 is executed. Hereinafter, the gate 32A and the gate 32B may be collectively referred to as the gate 32.

  The processes in steps S100 to S104 are as follows.

  Normal symbol normal processing (step S100): The CPU 56 can start the variation of the normal symbol (for example, when the value of the normal symbol process flag is a value indicating step S100, specifically, the normal symbol is processed). When the display 10 is not in a state where the normal symbol variation display is being executed and the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 is not in the open state, the value of the number of gate passing memories is confirmed. Specifically, the count value of the gate passing memory number counter is confirmed. If the gate passing memory number is not 0, it is determined whether or not to win (whether or not to stop the normal symbol as a winning symbol). Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (in this example, “1”) indicating the normal symbol variation pattern setting process (step S101).

  Normal symbol variation pattern setting process (step S101): When the game ball passes the gate 32, the variation pattern of variable display of the regular symbol (the production mode during symbol variation: the variation time is also specified by the variation pattern). It is selected from a plurality of types of variation patterns determined in advance according to the value of the extracted variation pattern determination random number (one of the display random numbers). Also, based on the determined variation pattern, the normal symbol process is set by setting a value corresponding to the variable display time (ordinary symbol variation time) until the normal symbol is variably displayed and derived and displayed in the normal symbol process timer. Start the timer. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (“2” in this example) corresponding to the normal symbol variation process (step S102).

  Normal symbol variation processing (step S102): The CPU 56 checks whether or not the normal symbol process timer has timed out, and if it has timed out, stops the variation of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display 10. In addition, an effect control command (design determination designation command) for designating stop of variable display of decorative symbols on the effect display device 9 is transmitted to the effect control board 80. Then, the normal symbol process timer is started by setting a value corresponding to the normal symbol stop symbol display time in the normal symbol process timer, and the value of the normal symbol process flag is set to a value indicating the normal symbol stop time processing (step S103) (step S103). In this example, it is updated to “3”).

  Normal symbol stop process (step S103): The CPU 56 checks whether or not the normal symbol stop symbol is a winning symbol. If it is not a winning symbol (if it is a missing symbol), the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (“0” in this example) indicating the normal symbol normal process (step S100). If the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol, the normal symbol process timer is started by setting a value corresponding to the normal electric accessory operating time in the normal symbol process timer. Also, the ordinary variable winning ball apparatus (ordinary electric accessory) 20 is opened. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (in this example, “4”) indicating the process for releasing the normal electric accessory (step S104).

  Processing during normal electric accessory release (step S104): When the normal symbol process timer has not timed out, the CPU 56 wins the number of game balls (start winning prize) to the normal electric accessory (ordinary variable winning ball apparatus 20). The number of winning prizes to the mouth 14) is counted. When the normal symbol process timer times out, the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is closed, and the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (in this example, “0”) indicating the normal symbol process (step S100).

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the gate switch passage processing. In the gate switch passage processing, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the count value (gate passage storage number) of the gate passage storage counter has reached the maximum value (“4” in this example) (step S115). If the maximum value has not been reached, the CPU 56 increments the count value of the gate passage storage counter by 1 (step S116), and the random number for determining the variation pattern (random 2) and the random number for determination per random symbol (random 3), which are software random numbers. Is extracted and stored in a storage area (ordinary symbol determination buffer) corresponding to the value of the number of gate passages stored (step S117). Further, the CPU 56 increases the number of lighting of the normal symbol hold storage display 41 by 1 (step S118). Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a normal symbol reserved memory number designation command indicating the gate passing memory number (ordinary symbol reserved memory number) (step S119). Note that the variation pattern determination random number value is not extracted in the process of step S117, but the variation pattern determination random number value is extracted at the start of variation of the normal symbol (for example, in the normal symbol variation pattern setting process). Also good.

  When transmitting an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the CPU 56 sets an address of a command transmission table (preliminarily set for each command in the ROM) corresponding to the effect control command as a pointer. . Then, the address of the command transmission table corresponding to the effect control command is set in the pointer, and the effect control command is transmitted in the effect control command control process (step S29).

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol normal process (step S100). In the normal symbol normal process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the normal symbol process timer (set in step S158 in FIG. 18) has timed out (step S270). If not timed out, the value of the normal symbol process timer is decremented by -1 (step S278), and the process is terminated. If the normal symbol process timer has already timed out, it is confirmed whether or not the gate passing memory number is 0 (step S271). Specifically, the count value of the gate passing memory number counter is confirmed. If the gate passing memory number is 0, the process is terminated. If the gate passing memory number is not 0, the CPU 56 reads the normal symbol per-design random number and the variation pattern determining random number stored in the storage area corresponding to the gate passing memory number = 1 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. Store (step S272).

  Then, the CPU 56 decreases the value of the gate passage storage number counter by 1 and shifts the contents of each storage area (step S273). That is, the random number value for determination per normal symbol and the random number value for determining the variation pattern stored in the storage area corresponding to the gate passing memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) are represented by the gate passing memory number = n−. 1 is stored in the storage area corresponding to 1. Therefore, the order in which the random numbers for determining normal symbols and the random numbers for determining variation patterns stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the respective numbers of stored passages of gates are always extracted as follows: , 3 and 4 in order.

  In addition, the number of indicators lit in the normal symbol indicator 10 is reduced by 1 (step S274). In addition, a normal symbol reserved storage number subtraction designation command designating that 1 is subtracted from the gate passage storage number is transmitted (step S275). In addition, you may transmit the command which designates the gate passage memory | storage number after subtraction, without transmitting a normal symbol reservation memory | storage number subtraction designation | designated command.

  Next, the CPU 56 executes a normal symbol hit determination process for determining whether to win or not based on the read random number value (step S276).

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a normal symbol hit determination process. As shown in FIG. 13, in the normal symbol hit determination process, the CPU 56 first determines whether or not the high base state flag is set to check whether or not the current gaming state is the high base state (step S91). ).

  The high base state is a gaming state that is controlled so that the starting condition of the game ball is easily established (that is, the execution condition of variable display in the special symbol display 8 is easily established). In this embodiment, the high base state corresponds to a short time state. In the case of a high base state, for example, the probability of hitting a normal symbol is higher, for example, than in the case of not being in a high base state (in the case of a low base state, that is, in a normal gaming state). It becomes easy. Specifically, the game ball is likely to win the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20. That is, the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 (normal variable winning ball apparatus) is likely to be in an open state, and the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is in a state in which the probability of hitting a normal symbol is increased compared to the low base state. Is in at least one state between the state where the number of times of opening is increased and the state where the opening time is extended (the state in which the normally variable winning ball apparatus is easily opened) or the variable display of the normal symbol Whether the time has been shortened (normal symbol variable display execution frequency is increased), or the normal variable winning ball apparatus is likely to be opened, and the normal symbol variation execution frequency is The state is increasing.

  When the gaming state is the normal gaming state, the CPU 56 selects the determination table per low base state (step S92), and when the gaming state is the high base state (when the high base state flag is set), the high base state is selected. A per-state determination table is selected (step S95). Then, the value of the random number for normal symbol determination read out in the process of step S272 is compared with the hit determination value set in the hit determination table (low base state determination table or high base state determination table) (step S93). ).

  FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing a normal symbol determination table (high base state determination table and low base state determination table). As shown in FIG. 14 (A), the probability determined to win in the high base state is 249/250. As shown in FIG. 14 (B), the probability of being determined in the low base state is 1/250 (0.4%). Therefore, when the gaming state is in the low base state, it is a hit with a low probability, and when it is in the high base state, it is a hit with an extremely high probability (100% in this example).

  If the result of the comparison in step S93 is a win (when the random number for normal symbol matches the value of any hit determination value) (step S94), the CPU 56 sets the normal symbol per flag. (Step S96).

  Then, in the normal symbol normal process, the CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag to a value (specifically “1”) indicating the normal symbol variation pattern setting process (step S101) (step S277).

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a normal symbol variation pattern setting process (step S102) in the normal symbol process. In the normal symbol variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the high base state flag to check whether the normal symbol per flag is set and whether the current gaming state is the high base state. It is confirmed whether it is (step S131). The CPU 56 determines whether or not the normal symbol per flag is set and whether or not the high base state flag is set, and the CPU 56 determines the variation pattern determination random number stored in the random number storage buffer. The variation pattern of the normal symbol is determined using the variation pattern determination table selected in the processes of steps S133, S134, and S135 (step S132). The selected variation pattern will be described later.

  Next, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the fluctuation time of the normal symbol specified by the fluctuation pattern in the normal symbol process timer (step S133). Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a variation pattern command according to the variation pattern determined in the process of step S136 (step S134). Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “2”) corresponding to the normal symbol variation process (step S102) (step S139).

  FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing a variation pattern used in this embodiment. In FIG. 16, “EXT” indicates EXT data of the second byte in the effect control command having a two-byte structure. “Time” indicates a normal symbol variation time (variable display period of identification information).

  In this example, each variation pattern of a normal symbol is distinguished into a variation pattern selected in a high base state and a variation pattern selected in a low base state. In addition, the variation pattern when the stop symbol of the decorative symbol is “out of symbol” (variation pattern for exclusive use only), and the variation pattern when the stop symbol of the decorative symbol is “per symbol” (variation pattern exclusively for hit) And are distinguished.

  The variation pattern selected at the time of high base (the variation pattern of “01 (H)” and “02 (H)” in FIG. 16) is the case where the stop symbol of the decorative symbol is “offset symbol” and the symbol “winning symbol”. In each case, one type is prepared and the variation time is 5.0 seconds. In the variation pattern selected at the time of low base (“03 (H)”, “04 (H)”, “05 (H)”, “06 (H)” in FIG. 16), the decorative symbol stop symbol is “ A normal and a long variation pattern are prepared for each of the cases of “out of symbol” and “winning symbol”, and one of them is selected. The fluctuation time in the normal fluctuation pattern is 9.5 seconds, but the fluctuation time in the long fluctuation pattern is 112.5 seconds. When the long fluctuation pattern is selected, the decorative pattern (ordinary pattern) A considerable amount of time is required from the start of variable display until the display result is derived.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol variation process (step S102). In the normal symbol variation process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the normal symbol process timer has reached 0, that is, whether or not the normal symbol process timer has timed out (step S141). If the normal symbol process timer has not timed out, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the normal symbol process timer by -1 (step S142).

  When the normal symbol process timer times out, that is, when the normal symbol change time has elapsed, the CPU 56 stops the normal symbol change in the normal symbol display 10 (step S143). Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a symbol stop designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S144).

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the normal symbol stop symbol display time in the normal symbol process timer (step S145). Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag to a value (specifically “3”) indicating the normal symbol stop time process (step S103) (step S146).

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol stop process (step S103). In the normal symbol stop process, the CPU 56 checks whether the value of the normal symbol process timer has reached 0, that is, whether the normal symbol process timer has timed out (step S151). If the normal symbol process timer has not timed out, the value of the normal symbol process timer is decremented by 1 (step S152).

  When the normal symbol process timer times out, that is, when the normal symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the normal symbol per flag is set (step S153).

  When the normal symbol hit flag is set, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the normal electric accessory operating time (for example, 8 seconds) in the normal symbol process timer (step S154). It should be noted that the normal electric accessory operating time may be different depending on whether the gaming state is the normal state or the probability changing state.

  Further, the CPU 56 opens the ordinary variable winning ball apparatus (ordinary electric accessory) 20 (step S155) and clears the value of the winning number counter to 0 (step S156).

  Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically, “4”) indicating the process for releasing the normal electric accessory (step S104) (step S157).

  If it is determined in step S153 that the normal symbol per flag is not set, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the next variation waiting time (for example, 2.0 seconds) in the normal symbol process timer (step S158). ). Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “0”) indicating the normal symbol normal process (step S100) (step S159).

  In this embodiment, the game control means determines whether or not the next normal time until a time longer than the sum of the special symbol variation time and the jackpot gaming state period (for example, 1.7 seconds: see FIG. 8) has elapsed. Since there is a prohibition means for prohibiting the start of symbol variation, there is a possibility that the game ball will pass through the gate 32 during this period (a period during which normal symbol variation is not executed) and the value of the gate passing memory number will increase. When the jackpot gaming state ends, the possibility that the jackpot will occur again can be maintained.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the process during the opening of the ordinary electric accessory (step S104). In the process of releasing the normal electric accessory, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the normal symbol process timer has reached 0, that is, whether or not the normal symbol process timer has timed out (step S161). If the normal symbol process timer has timed out, the process proceeds to step S166. If the normal symbol process timer has not timed out, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the normal symbol process timer by -1 (step S162).

  Further, when the winning opening switch 23 is on (step S163), the CPU 56 increments the value of the winning number counter by 1 (step S164). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the winning number counter has reached 8 (step S165). When the value of the winning number counter becomes 8, the process proceeds to step S166.

  In step S166, the CPU 56 closes the normally variable winning ball apparatus (ordinary electric accessory) 20 (step S166).

  Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “0”) indicating the normal symbol normal process (step S100) (step S167).

  Next, the control of the special symbol and the special winning opening will be described. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process (step S27) program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process, a process for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process, the CPU 56 performs any one of steps S300 to S307.

  The processes in steps S300 to S307 are as follows.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is zero. When the special symbol variable display can be started, the CPU 56 determines whether or not to win the jackpot (whether or not the special symbol variable display display result is the specific display result). In the case of a big hit, the big hit flag is set and the type of the big hit is determined. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (“1” in this example) corresponding to step S301.

  Special symbol variation start processing (step S301): This processing is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. The special symbol process timer is started by setting in the special symbol process timer a value corresponding to the variable display time (variation time) from the start of the special symbol variable display to the derivation display. In this embodiment, the variation time of the special symbol is a fixed time (that is, the variation pattern of the special symbol is one type). Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (“2” in this example) according to step S302.

  Special symbol changing process (step S302): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. When the variation time set in the special symbol variation start process has elapsed (the special symbol process timer set in step S301 has timed out), the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value corresponding to step S303 (in this example, “3 )).

  Special symbol stop process (step S303): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. The variable display on the special symbol display 8 is stopped and the stop symbol is displayed. Also, it is confirmed whether or not the big hit flag is set. When the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S304 (in this example, “4”). If the big hit flag is not set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 (in this example, “0”).

  Jackpot display process (step S304): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. When the time during which the production control microcomputer 100 performs control for notifying the occurrence of the big hit has elapsed, the CPU 56 sets the internal state (special symbol process flag) to a value corresponding to step S305 (in this example, “5”). ).

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S305): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. When the big hit display time has elapsed, the control for opening the big prize opening is started. Specifically, the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 to open the special winning opening. The number of rounds is counted by a counter. Also, the execution time (round time) of the special winning opening control process is set in the special winning opening control timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value according to step S306 (in this example, “6”). To do.

  Large winning opening opening process (step S306): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. Processing to confirm the establishment of the closing condition of the big prize opening is performed. When the closing condition of the special winning opening is established, the solenoid 21 is driven to close the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 to close the special winning opening. In addition, the time (interval time) from the end of the round to the start of the next round is set in the big prize opening control timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value (in this example, according to step S305). Update to “5”). When all the rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S307 (7 in this example).

  Big hit end process (step S307): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. In addition, processing for setting a flag indicating a gaming state (for example, a probability variation flag or a high base state flag) is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 (in this example, “0”).

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 can start the variation of the special symbol (when the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300 (for example, “0”), that is, the special symbol display. If the special symbol is not displayed on the device 8 and is not in the big hit gaming state (step S51), it is checked whether or not the winning opening switch 23 is turned on (step S52).

  When the CPU 56 confirms that the winning opening switch 23 is in the ON state, the CPU 56 extracts a value that becomes a random R (big hit determination random number) from the random number circuit 503 (step S53). Then, the CPU 56 executes a big hit determination process (step S54).

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the big hit determination process. As shown in FIG. 22, in the big hit determination process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the probability change flag is set in order to check whether or not the current gaming state is a probability change state (high probability state). (Step S81).

  When the gaming state is the normal state (when the probability variation flag is not set), the CPU 56 selects a normal big hit determination table used for the big hit determination in the normal state (step S82), and in step S53. The read jackpot determination random number value is compared with the jackpot determination value set in the normal-time jackpot determination table to determine whether or not to win. If the value of the big hit determination random number matches any of the big hit determination values, it is decided to win. Further, when the probability variation flag is set, the CPU 56 selects the probability variation big hit determination table (step S84), and is set in the value of the big hit determination random number read in step S53 and the probability variation big hit determination table. The jackpot determination value is compared (step S85).

  When it is decided to make a big hit (step S86), a big hit flag is set (step S87).

  FIG. 23A is an explanatory diagram showing a normal jackpot determination table, and FIG. 23B is an explanatory diagram showing a probability change jackpot determination table. As shown in FIG. 23A, 0 to 64225 is set as the big hit determination value in the normal big hit determination table. Since the value of the random number for jackpot determination can be in the range of 0 to 65535, the probability that the jackpot is determined in the normal gaming state (special symbol winning probability) is about 98%.

  As shown in FIG. 23B, 0 to 65535 is set as the big hit determination value in the probability change big hit determination table. Therefore, the probability that the jackpot is determined in the probability variation state (the winning probability of the special symbol) is 100%. It should be noted that, instead of always making a big hit in the probability variation state, the big hit may be made at a high rate (for example, 99%).

  As described above, in this embodiment, when the gaming state is the normal state, a big hit is made with a high probability, and when the gaming state is a probabilistic state, the big hit is always made (with a probability of 100%).

  In this embodiment, since the probability (special symbol winning probability) determined in the big hit in the probability variation state is 100%, the processing in steps S84 and S85 may not be executed. Further, when the probability variation flag is set, the big hit flag may be set immediately.

  After executing the big hit determination process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S55). If the big hit flag is not set, that is, if it is determined to be out of place, the process proceeds to step S63.

  When the jackpot flag is set, the CPU 56 extracts a value (random number for determining the jackpot type) from a counter for generating random 1: see FIG. Then, the jackpot type determination process is executed using the jackpot type determination table (step S56).

  FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram of a jackpot type determination table. As shown in FIG. 24, the big hit type determination table includes a table (see FIG. 24 (A)) used when the limiter is not operated (when the big hit number counter has not reached the predetermined value), and when the limiter is operated ( Specifically, there is a table (see FIG. 24B) used when the limiter is to be operated, that is, when the big hit number counter reaches a predetermined value.

  In the processing of step S56, when the value of the big hit number counter is less than the predetermined value = [limit value-1], the CPU 56 uses the table shown in FIG. In some cases, the table shown in FIG. In this embodiment, since the predetermined value is 29, when the value of the big hit number counter is less than 29, the table shown in FIG. 24A is used, and when the value of the big hit number counter is 29, FIG. The table shown in B) is used.

  When determining whether to use the table shown in FIG. 24A or the table shown in FIG. 24B, it is not determined based on the limit value (= 30), but a predetermined value = [ The determination is made based on whether or not the limit value is 1] because the value of the big hit counter is not changed when the process of step S56 is executed. For example, the value of the jackpot counter when the process of step S56 is executed for the variation of the special symbol when the 30th jackpot occurs is 29.

  In the table used when the limiter is not operated as shown in FIG. 24A, the first big hit (after the big hit gaming state, the probability variation state (high probability state) and the high base state, and the limiter number is updated (big hit) 0 to 18 is set as a determination value corresponding to the big hit (which increases the value of the number counter by 1), and the second big hit (after the big hit gaming state, the non-probability change state (low probability state: normal state) and 19 is set as a determination value corresponding to the high base state and the initialization of the limiter number (a big hit that will set the value of the big hit number counter to 0).

  In this embodiment, when the limiter is not operated, the probability (probability change determination rate) determined to be a probable big hit (corresponding to the first big hit) is 95% (1/20). The probability variation determination rate is 95%. The probability that the probability variation hits in the normal state and the transition to the probability variation state is 95%, and the probability variation big hit occurs in the probability variation state and the probability variation state continues. That is, 95% is used.

  Further, the probability that the high base state is determined when the limiter is not operated is 100%. 100% means that the ratio of being a big hit in the low base state and shifting to the high base state is 100%, and the high base state is continued in the case of the high base state. The percentage is also 100%.

  In the table used at the time of the limiter operation shown in FIG. 24 (B), the 2-A big hit (after the big hit gaming state, the non-probability change state (low probability state: normal state) and the high base state, 0 to 10 and 19 are set as judgment values corresponding to initialization (a big hit that sets the value of the big hit number counter to 0), and the second 2-B big hit (after the big hit gaming state, an uncertain change state) 11 to 18 are set as judgment values corresponding to the (low probability state: normal state) and the low base state, and the limiter number is initialized (the big hit number that sets the value of the big hit number counter to 0). Has been.

  In this embodiment, when the limiter is operated, the probability (probability change determination rate) that is determined to be a probable big hit is 0%. When the probability variation determination rate is 0%, the probability variation state always ends.

  In addition, when the limiter is activated, the probability that the high base state is determined is 60% (12/20). The probability determined to be in the low base state is 40% (8/20).

  Next, the CPU 56 stores symbol information (for example, information capable of specifying a special symbol stop symbol) in the symbol information buffer in the RAM 55 according to the display result (big hit type) determined in step S56 (step S57). ). The process in step S57 corresponds to a process for storing the big hit type.

  If the CPU 56 decides to make the first big hit, it increments the value of the big hit number counter by 1 (steps S58 and S62). If it is determined other than the first big hit, the value of the big hit number counter is initialized to 0 (step S61). Then, the process proceeds to step S63. When the limiter is activated (that is, when the value of the big hit counter is 29 (meaning that if the big hit occurs at that time, the number of big hits will be 30 which is the limit value)) A 2-A jackpot or a 2-B jackpot occurs.

  In step S63, the CPU 56 determines a special symbol stop symbol. However, in this embodiment, since only one type of jackpot symbol is provided according to the jackpot type, the jackpot symbol is also automatically determined by determining the jackpot type. Specifically, “1” is the first jackpot symbol, “3” is the second jackpot symbol, “5” is the second-A jackpot symbol, and “7” is the second-B jackpot symbol. It is. It should be noted that instead of using one type of stop symbol according to the type of jackpot, the jackpot symbol may be selected from a plurality of types of symbols.

  Further, since only one type of “0” is provided for the missing symbol, the missing symbol is automatically determined when it is determined to be a missing symbol.

  In this embodiment, it is determined whether or not the jackpot is first determined, and then the jackpot type is determined after the jackpot is determined. The determination method is not limited to the one shown in this embodiment. For example, if a table in which a judgment value is assigned to each jackpot type is prepared, and if it is determined to be any jackpot type based on the table, it is determined to be a jackpot It may be done. That is, whether or not to make a big hit and the type of big hit may be determined simultaneously. In addition, a table in which a special symbol stop symbol and a jackpot type are associated in advance is prepared, and when a special symbol stop symbol is first determined based on the random number for determining the big hit type, the corresponding jackpot is determined based on the determination result. You may comprise so that a classification may also be determined.

  Thereafter, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value (for example, “1”) corresponding to the special symbol variation start process (step S301) (step S64). Then, the process ends.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the special symbol variation start process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol variation start process, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the variation time of the special symbol in the special symbol process timer (step S211). In this embodiment, the variation time of the special symbol is a fixed time (for example, 0.5 seconds) regardless of whether the display result (stop symbol) of the special symbol is a loss or a big hit. And CPU56 starts the fluctuation | variation of a special symbol (step S212). Also, control is performed to transmit a special symbol variation start designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S213). Further, control for transmitting the display result specifying command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed (step S214). Thereafter, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value (for example, “2”) corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S302) (step S215). In this embodiment, the variation pattern is the same regardless of whether it is a loss or a big hit, but the CPU 56 may select a variation pattern to be used from a plurality of types of variation patterns.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the special symbol changing process (step S302) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol changing process, first, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the special symbol process timer by 1 (step S221). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the special symbol process timer has timed out (that is, whether or not the value of the special symbol process timer is 0) (step S222). . When the special symbol process timer has timed out, the CPU 56 stops the variation of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 and derives and displays the stopped symbol (step S223).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a special symbol variation end designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S224). Also, a value corresponding to the symbol stop time, which is a period during which the special symbol stop symbol is stopped and displayed in the special symbol process timer, is set (step S225). Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value (for example, “3”) corresponding to the special symbol stop process (step S303) (step S226).

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S303) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the special symbol process timer by 1 (step S231). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the special symbol process timer has timed out (that is, whether or not the value of the special symbol process timer is 0) (step S232). If not timed out, the process is terminated.

  If the special symbol process timer has timed out, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S233). If the big hit flag is set, the probability change flag indicating the probability change state and the high base state flag indicating the high base state are reset (step S234), and the effect control microcomputer 100 is hit big. Control to transmit a start designation command is performed (step S235). In addition, a value corresponding to the big hit display time (for example, the time when the effect display device 9 notifies that the big hit has occurred) is set in the big hit display time timer (step S236). In addition, 2 is set to the number-of-opening counter indicating the number of times of opening of the special winning opening (step S237). In the big hit display process, the number of times of opening (for example, 2) may be set in the number of times of opening counter. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value (for example, “4”) corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S304) (step S238).

  When the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value (for example, “0”) corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S241).

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the pre-opening process for the special winning opening in the special symbol process (step S305). In the big prize opening pre-processing, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the big prize opening control timer by 1 (step S401). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0 (step S402). If the value of the big prize opening control timer is not 0, the process is terminated.

  When the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0, the CPU 56 designates the big prize opening opening designation command (A1XX) for designating the display state according to the number of rounds during the opening of the big prize opening (during round). (H)) is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S403). Note that the CPU 56 recognizes the number of rounds by checking the value of the number-of-releases counter for counting the number of rounds in the big hit gaming state. Then, the CPU 56 controls to open the special winning opening (special variable winning ball apparatus 15) by driving the solenoid 21 (step S404), and decrements the value of the opening number counter by -1 (step S405).

  Further, a value corresponding to the maximum time that the big prize opening can be opened in each round is set in the big prize opening control timer (step S406). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value (for example, “6”) according to the special winning opening opening process (step S306) (step S415).

  FIG. 29 and FIG. 30 are flowcharts showing the special winning opening opening process (step S306) in the special symbol process. In the special prize opening opening process, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the special prize opening control timer by -1 (step S420).

  Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the special winning opening control timer has become 0 (step S421). If the value of the big prize opening control timer is not 0, it is confirmed whether or not the prize opening switch 23 is turned on (step S432). If the prize opening switch 23 is not turned on, the process is terminated. When the winning opening switch 23 is turned on, the value of the winning number counter (large winning opening winning number counter) for counting the number of winning game balls to the big winning opening is incremented by 1 (step S433). Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the winning number counter is a predetermined number (for example, 1) (step S434). If the value of the winning number counter is not a predetermined number, the process is terminated. Note that the determination order of S421 and S432 may be reversed.

  When the value of the winning prize control timer is 0, or when the value of the winning number counter is a predetermined number, the CPU 56 drives the solenoid 21 to win the winning prize (special variable winning ball device 15). Is closed (step S435). Then, the value of the winning number counter is cleared to 0 (step S436).

  Next, the CPU 56 confirms the value of the opening number counter (step S438). When the value of the number-of-opening counter is not 0, the CPU 56 designates the post-big prize opening after-opening designation command (A2XX (H)) for designating the display state according to the number of rounds after the big prize opening is opened (after the round is completed). ) Is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S439). Then, a value corresponding to the time (interval period) from the end of the round to the start of the next round (interval period) is set in the big prize opening control timer (step S440), and the value of the special symbol process flag is set to the big prize opening. It is updated to a value (for example, “5”) corresponding to the pre-release process (step S305) (step S441).

  If the value of the opening number counter is 0, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a big hit number designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S445). The value of the big hit number counter is set in the second byte (EXT data) of the big hit number designation command.

  Then, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the jackpot end time (for example, the time to notify the effect display device 9 that the jackpot gaming state has ended) in the jackpot control timer (step S448), and the special symbol process flag Is updated to a value (for example, “7”) corresponding to the big hit end process (step S307) (step S449).

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process. In the big hit ending process, the CPU 56 first decrements the value of the big prize opening control timer by -1 (step S471). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0 (step S472). If the value of the big prize opening control timer is not 0, the process is terminated. When the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit is the first big hit (step S473).

  When it is the first big hit, the CPU 56 sets a probability variation flag and a high base state flag (steps S473, S478). Then, control goes to a step S481. When it is the second big hit, the CPU 56 sets a high base state flag (steps S474 and S475). When it is the 2-A big hit, the CPU 56 sets a high base state flag (steps S476 and S477).

  Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value (specifically “0”) corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S481).

  In this embodiment, the limiter is activated when large hits occur 30 times in succession in the probability variation state. The type of jackpot determined when the value of the jackpot counter is 29, which is a predetermined value (when the jackpot occurs at that time, the number of jackpot occurrences becomes 30 which is the limit value) This is because it is a big hit that will not set the probability variation flag after the end of the big hit gaming state. However, the 30 times that the limiter is activated is an example, and the number of jackpots that the limiter is activated may be other than 30 times. Moreover, you may make it vary the frequency | count according to the kind of jackpot. For example, the number of times may be determined by lottery using random numbers.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80. The production control microcomputer 100 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 4 ms) is performed (step S701). . Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 executes a random number update process for updating the counter value of a counter for generating a predetermined random number (step S702). Then, the timer interrupt flag is monitored (step S703). If the timer interrupt flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S702. When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S704), and executes the effect control process of steps S705 to S707.

  In the effect control process, the effect control microcomputer 100 first analyzes the received effect control command and executes a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S705). Next, the production control microcomputer 100 executes a decorative symbol process (step S706). In the decorative symbol process, the variation control of the decorative symbol in the effect display device 9 is executed. Further, the effect control process is executed (step S707). In the effect control process, a process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the effect display device 9 is executed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  33 and 34 are flowcharts showing the command analysis process (step S704) in the effect control process. The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control microcomputer 100 checks the contents of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

  The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal, and is stored in a buffer area formed in the RAM. In the command analysis process, it is analyzed which command (see FIG. 9) is the effect control command stored in the buffer area.

  In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S611). Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. When the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer (step S612). When read, the value of the read pointer is incremented by +2 (step S613). The reason for +2 is that 2 bytes (1 command) are read at a time.

  If the received effect control command is a variation pattern command (an effect control command for designating a variation pattern of a decorative symbol variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in synchronization with variable display of a normal symbol as described above) (step In step S614, the effect control CPU 101 stores the variation pattern command in the variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM (step S615). Then, a variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S616).

  If the received effect control command is a normal symbol deviation designation command (step S620), the effect control CPU 101 sets a normal symbol deviation designation command reception flag (step S621).

  If the received effect control command is a normal symbol designation command (step S622), the effect control CPU 101 sets a normal symbol designation command reception flag (step S623).

  If the received effect control command is a symbol confirmation designation command (step S624), the effect control CPU 101 sets a symbol confirmation designation command reception flag (step S625).

  If the received effect control command is a normal symbol reserved memory number designation command (step S626), the effect control CPU 101 counts the number indicated by the second byte data (EXT data) of the normal symbol reserved memory number designation command. Is displayed on the normal symbol storage storage display unit 18d (step S627).

  If the received effect control command is a normal symbol reserved memory number subtraction designation command (step S628), the effect control CPU 101 reduces the display of the normal symbol reserved memory display unit 18d by 1 (step S629).

  If the received effect control command is a special symbol variation start designation command (step S631), the effect control CPU 101 sets a special symbol variation start designation command reception flag (step S632).

  If the received effect control command is a special symbol variation end designation command (step S633), the effect control CPU 101 sets a special symbol variation end designation command reception flag (step S634).

  If the received effect control command is a display result specifying command (outgoing designation command, first jackpot designation command, second jackpot designation command, second-A jackpot designation command, second-B jackpot designation command) (step S641). The effect control CPU 101 stores the display result specifying command in the display result specifying command storage area formed in the RAM (step S642).

  If the received effect control command is a big hit count designation command (step S651), the effect control CPU 101 uses the number indicated by the second byte data (EXT data) of the big hit count designation command as the big hit count area in the RAM. (Step S652). Hereinafter, the value stored in the big hit count area may be referred to as a big hit count counter value.

  If the received effect control command is another command, effect control CPU 101 sets a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (step S670). Then, control goes to a step S611.

  The effect control CPU 101 can grasp that the limiter is activated by the big hit number designation command (for example, after receiving the big hit number designation command whose second byte data is “29”, the second byte The limiter is activated when the big hit number designation command with the data of “0” is received.), The game control microcomputer 560 is configured to transmit an effect control command indicating the operation of the limiter. If so, it knows that the limiter is activated by that command.

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing the decorative symbol process process (step S706) in the main process. In the decorative design process, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs any one of steps S800 to S803 according to the value of the decorative design process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern command has been received from the game control microcomputer 560. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag set in the command analysis process is set. If the variation pattern command has been received, the value of the decorative symbol process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation start process (step S801).

  Decoration symbol variation start processing (step S801): Control is performed so that the decoration symbol and the variation of the ornament symbol are started. Then, the value of the decorative symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol changing process (step S802).

  Decoration symbol variation processing (step S802): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern and monitors the end of the variation time. When the variation time ends, the value of the decorative symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation stop process (step S803).

  Decoration symbol variation stop process (step S803): Based on the reception of the effect control command (design determination designation command) for instructing all symbols to stop, the variation of the ornament symbol is stopped and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Take control. Then, the value of the decorative symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the decorative symbol process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S811). The variation pattern command reception flag is an effect control command (that is, a variation variable) that designates a variation pattern of a decorative symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in synchronism with variable display of a normal symbol in the processes of steps S614 and S616. This is set when it is confirmed that the (pattern command) has been received. If the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variation pattern command reception flag is reset (step S812). Then, the value of the decorative symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S813).

  FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol variation start process (step S801) in the decorative symbol process shown in FIG. In the decorative symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 reads the received variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area of the RAM (step S820). Further, the display result (stop symbol) of the decorative symbol is determined in accordance with the received normal symbol display result specifying command (ordinary symbol deviation designation command, normal symbol designation command) (step S821). When a normal symbol deviation designation command is received, a normal symbol deviation designation command reception flag is set, and when a normal symbol designation command is received, a normal symbol designation command reception flag is set (FIG. 33). reference). The effect control CPU 101 stores data indicating the determined decorative symbol stop pattern in the decorative symbol display result storage area. Then, the set normal symbol deviation designation command reception flag or the normal symbol designation command reception flag (ordinary symbol display result specifying command) is reset (step S822).

  FIG. 38 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a decorative symbol stop pattern in the effect display device 9. In the example shown in FIG. 38, when the display result of the normal symbol is a win, the effect control CPU 101 determines a combination of effect symbols having three symbols as stop symbols. When the display result of the normal symbol is out of place, a combination of effect symbols other than the above is determined. However, when a reach effect is involved, a combination of effect symbols in which two left and right symbols are aligned is determined. Whether or not a reach effect is involved is determined based on the received variation pattern command.

  The effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for determining the stop symbol, and uses the stop symbol determination table in which the data indicating the combination of the decorative symbol and the numerical value are associated with each other to generate the stop symbol of the decorative symbol. decide. That is, the stop symbol is determined by selecting data indicating a combination of decorative symbols corresponding to a numerical value that matches the extracted random number.

  In addition, as for the decorative design, the stop design that reminds of winning is called the winning design. In addition, a stop symbol that recalls a loss is called a loss symbol.

  In this embodiment, the variation pattern used when the normal symbol display result is a win is different from the variation pattern used when the normal symbol display result is out of order. The CPU 101 can determine whether the display result of the normal symbol is wrong or not based on the received variation pattern command. Therefore, the stop symbol of the decorative symbol may be determined based only on the received variation pattern command.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command (step S829).

  FIG. 39 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of a process table. The process table is a table in which process data referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls effect devices (effect components) such as the effect display device 9 according to the process data set in the process table. The process table includes data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, and lamp control execution data are collected. The display control execution data includes, for example, data indicating each variation mode constituting the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the decorative symbol (display of the effect display device 9 in addition to the decorative symbol display mode) Including effects other than decorative designs on the screen). Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. Further, the production time in the production mode is set in the process timer set value. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table, displays the decorative pattern in the form set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value, and displays the character image or background displayed on the display screen. Control to display. Further, the blinking of the light emitter (frame LED 28 and the like) is controlled in a manner set in the lamp control execution data.

  The process table shown in FIG. 39 is prepared according to each effect control pattern.

  In addition, when the effect display device 9 does not execute an effect other than the change of the decorative design when the change of the decorative design (variable display) is performed in synchronization with the change of the normal design (variable display), the decorative design process is performed. In processing, the process table is not used.

  FIG. 40 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the effects executed according to the contents of the process table. As shown in FIG. 40, the effect control CPU 101 executes effect control according to effect control execution data in the process table. That is, when the time according to the timer value set in the process timer set value has elapsed, according to the next effect control execution data in the process table, by repeating the process of controlling the light emitters such as the effect display device 9 and the LED, The effect during the change of the decorative pattern is realized once. In this embodiment, the image data related to the variation of the decorative design is not set in the process table. As will be described later, the decoration control CPU 101 writes the image data indicating the display state of the decorative design to the VRAM every time the variation control timer times out, thereby realizing the decorative design variation. Further, the sound number data related to the sound effect is not set in the process table. Since the control data corresponding to the sound number data stored in the sound data ROM 704 is a collection of data indicating the sound effect or sound output mode in a predetermined time period (for example, a decorative symbol fluctuation period) in time series, The control CPU 101 outputs the sound number data to the sound output board 70, for example, at the start of decoration pattern variation. When it is desired to interrupt the sound output based on the already-output audio data, the effect control CPU 101 may output, for example, sound number data indicating the interruption to the audio output board 70.

  In the process of step S829 shown in FIG. 37, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table according to the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command.

  The effect control CPU 101 starts a process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table (step S830). If the continuous effect is not being executed (step S831), the effect control CPU 101 outputs the sound number data corresponding to the variation pattern to the audio output board 70 (step S832). Further, the control of the effect device (the effect display device 9 as the effect part and various LEDs as the effect part) is executed according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1) (step S833). , S834). That is, in accordance with the display control execution data, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image (including decorative symbols) according to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to control various LEDs to be turned on / off.

  It should be noted that, due to the processing in step S831, during the execution of the continuation effect, the decoration pattern change and the effect accompanying the decoration pattern change are not executed. In step S831, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the continuous effect is being executed based on whether or not the continuous effect execution flag set in the effect control process is set.

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command in the variation time timer (step S835). Further, a predetermined time is set in the fluctuation control timer (step S836). Note that the predetermined time is, for example, 30 ms, and the presentation control CPU 101 writes image data indicating the display state of the left, middle, and right decorative patterns to the VRAM every time the predetermined time elapses, and image data in which the VDP 109 is written to the VRAM. Is output to the effect display device 9, and the effect display device 9 displays an image corresponding to the signal, whereby the variation of the decorative design is realized. Thereafter, the value of the decorative symbol process flag is set to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol changing process (step S802) (step S837).

  When the image control CPU 101 writes image data in a predetermined area of the VRAM, the effect control CPU 101 actually performs control to write the image data into the VRAM, for example, in a V blank interrupt process based on the V blank interrupt. Therefore, the effect control CPU 101 temporarily stores data to be written to the VRAM in a predetermined area of the RAM, and performs control to write the data in the predetermined area of the RAM to the VRAM by the V blank interrupt process. The V blank interrupt is an interrupt generated by the VDP 109 in the same cycle as the cycle of the vertical synchronization signal supplied to the effect display device 9. For example, when the screen change frequency (frame frequency) of the effect display device 9 is 30 Hz, the generation period of the V blank interruption is 33.3 ms, and when the frame frequency is 60 Hz, the occurrence of the V blank interruption is generated. The period is 16.7 ms. In this example, data is written to the VRAM by the V blank interrupt processing, but data may be written to the VRAM in other processing. Other processes are, for example, a timer interrupt based on a timer built in for production control, or a decorative symbol changing process. In addition, when the process which writes data in VRAM in other processes is performed, it is preferable to perform the process for synchronizing with an execution period and the period of V blank interruption regularly, for example.

  FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing the decorative symbol variation process (step S802) in the decorative symbol process. In the decorative symbol variation process, the effect control CPU 101 decrements the values of the process timer, the variation time timer, and the variation control timer by 1 (steps S840A, S840B, and S840C).

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S841). If the process timer has timed out, the process data is switched (step S842). That is, the process timer is started again by setting the process timer set value set next in the process table in the process timer (step S843). Further, on the condition that the continuous production is not being executed (step S844), the control state for the production device (production component) is changed based on the display control execution data and the lamp control execution data set next (step S844). S845).

  If the continuous effect is being executed, the process of step S845 is not executed. Therefore, the display effect corresponding to the variation of the decorative design is interrupted during the continuous effect execution. In step S844, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the continuous effect is being executed depending on whether or not the continuous effect executing flag set in the effect control process is set.

  When the variation control timer has timed out (step S846), on the condition that the continuation effect is not being executed (step S847), the effect control CPU 101 displays the next display screen of the left, middle and right decorative symbols ( Image data of a screen that should be displayed after 30 ms has elapsed since the last decorative symbol display switching time is created and written in a predetermined area of the VRAM (step S848). By executing the process of step S848, the decorative display pattern variation control is realized in the effect display device 9. The VDP 109 outputs a signal based on data obtained by superimposing image data of a predetermined area and image data based on display control execution data set in the process table to the effect display device 9. In this way, the effect display device 9 displays the background image, the character image, and the decorative design in the variation of the decorative design. Also, a predetermined value is reset in the fluctuation control timer (step S849).

  When the special symbol is changing or in the big hit gaming state, the process of step S848 is not executed. In step S847, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the continuous effect is being executed based on whether or not the continuous effect execution flag set in the effect control process is set. When the special symbol is changing or in the big hit game state, the process of step S848 is not executed, so that the decorative symbol change is interrupted during the special symbol change or the big hit game state. When the special symbol is changing or in the big hit gaming state, the display is executed by processing such as special symbol changing effect processing (step S883) or round processing (step S885) in the effect control process (see FIG. 43). An effect based on the control is executed in the effect display device 9.

  In addition, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the variable time timer has timed out (step S851). If the variation time timer has timed out, the value of the decorative symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation stopping process (step S803) (step S853). Even if the variation time timer has not timed out, if the symbol confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (step S852), the value of the ornament symbol process flag is set to the ornament symbol variation stop processing (step It is updated to a value corresponding to S803) (step S853). Even if the variation time timer has not timed out, if the symbol confirmation designation command is received, the process shifts to control to stop variation.For example, a variation pattern command indicating a long variation time due to noise between substrates is received. Even in such a case, the variation of the decorative symbol can be terminated when the regular variation time has elapsed (when the variation of the special symbol has ended). In the process table used for decorative pattern variation control, process data during decorative pattern variation display is set. That is, the sum of the process timer setting values of the process data 1 to n in the process table illustrated in FIG. 39 corresponds to the decorative symbol variation time. Therefore, at the time of confirming that the process timer of the last process data n has timed out in the process of step S841, there is no process data to be switched (display control execution data and lamp control execution data), and the decorative design based on the process table The production control ends.

  FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing the decorative symbol variation stopping process (step S803) in the decorative symbol process. In the decorative symbol variation stop process, first, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not a symbol confirmation command reception flag indicating that an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) for instructing the decorative symbol variation stop has been received is set. Confirmation is made (step S861). If the symbol confirmation command reception flag is set, control is performed to stop and display the determined stop symbol (out of symbol or winning symbol) on the condition that the continuous effect is not being executed (step S862) ( Step S863).

  When the stop symbol of the decoration symbol derived and displayed in step S863 is a winning symbol, the stop symbol of the normal symbol is also derived and displayed (stop display), and the opening / closing operation of the special variable winning ball device 15 is executed. . Therefore, in this embodiment, when the winning symbol is stopped and displayed, a display for suggesting a game method is performed on the effect display device 9 (step S854). The display for suggesting the game method is the area where the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 is provided (in this embodiment, the left area in the game area 7 is the first area, and the right area is the second area. In this case, it is a display for notifying that the game ball is launched aiming at the second area), and as an example, a character display of “aiming right” is performed.

  Then, the value of the decorative symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S865).

  In this embodiment, the production control CPU 101 performs control to stop and display the decorative symbols in response to receiving the symbol confirmation designation command from the game control microcomputer 560, but the variable time timer has timed out. The decorative design may be stopped and displayed based on the above.

  FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S707) in the effect control process. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 executes the continuous effect control process (step S880), and then performs one of steps S881 to S888 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed. The continuous effect control process will be described later.

  In the effect control process, it is possible to execute an effect process according to the variation of the special symbol using an effect device such as the light emitter, the speaker 27, and the effect display device 9. In addition, when the value of the big hit number counter indicating the number of continuations of the special game state is not 0, the effect display device 9 continuously executes an effect capable of attacking the character by the player, for example. Control. “Continuously executed” means that a series of effects are executed over a plurality of variations. A series of effects are continuously executed even during the big hit gaming state. The “series of effects” is an effect in which the story is continuous, and is also referred to as a continuous effect hereinafter.

  The processes in steps S881 to S888 are as follows.

  Special symbol variation start designation command reception waiting process (step S881): It is confirmed whether or not a special symbol variation start designation command is received from the game control microcomputer 560. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a special symbol variation start designation command reception flag set in the command analysis process is set. If the special symbol variation start designation command has been received, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the special symbol variation start corresponding process (step S882).

  Special symbol variation start corresponding process (step S882): When a predetermined condition is satisfied, control for starting a continuous effect is performed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol variation handling process (step S883).

  Special symbol variation processing (step S883): The end of the variation time of the special symbol is monitored. When the variation time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol variation end corresponding process (step S884).

  Special symbol variation end correspondence processing (step S884): In the case of big hit, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit display correspondence processing (step S885), and in the case of a loss, special symbol variation start designation It is updated to a value corresponding to the command reception waiting process (step S881).

  Big hit display corresponding process (step S885): For example, control for displaying a screen for notifying the effect display device 9 of the occurrence of a big hit is performed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the round handling process (step S886).

  Processing during round (step S886): For example, display control during round is performed. When the round end condition is satisfied, if the final round is not ended, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the post-round response process (step S887). If the final round has ended, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit end corresponding process (step S888).

  Post-round handling process (step S887): For example, display control between rounds is performed. If the round start condition is satisfied, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the in-round response process (step S886).

  Big hit end processing (step S888): For example, in the effect display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol variation start designation command reception waiting process (step S881).

  FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing special symbol variation start designation command reception waiting processing (step S881) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the special symbol variation start designation command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the special symbol variation start designation command reception flag is set (step S911). If the special symbol variation start designation command reception flag is set, the special symbol variation start designation command reception flag is reset (step S912). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol variation start corresponding process (step S882) (step S913).

  FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing special symbol variation start corresponding processing (step S882) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the special symbol change start corresponding process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the continuous effect execution flag (a flag indicating that the continuous effect is being executed) is set (step S924). If the continuous effect execution flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S932.

  In addition, when it is determined that the special symbol display result is a big hit (step S925), the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the continuous effect (step S926). Further, a continuous effect execution flag is set (step S927). Whether or not it is decided to win the display result of the special symbol is determined based on the data stored in the display result specifying command storage area (see steps S641 and S642 in FIG. 34).

  If the process table corresponding to the continuous effect is selected, the effect that is continued based on the process table is subsequently executed until a predetermined condition is satisfied. That is, a continuous effect is executed.

  Further, in this embodiment, the big hit that occurs when the continuous effect execution flag is not set is the first big hit or the second big hit, but any of the big hits increases the gaming state after the big hit gaming state ends. Since the transition to the base state is made, the continuation effect is started on the condition that the transition to the special game state is made.

  Then, the production control CPU 101 starts a process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table. Note that the process timer used in the effect control process is a timer different from the process timer used in the decorative symbol process. Further, the sound number data corresponding to the continuation effect is output to the sound output board 70 (step S929). Further, the control of the effect device (the effect display device 9 as the effect part and various LEDs as the effect part) is executed according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1) (step S930). , S931).

  Next, the production control CPU 101 sets a value corresponding to the variation time of the special symbol in the variation time timer (step S932), and the value of the production control process flag corresponds to the special symbol variation response process (step S883). The value is updated (step S933).

  The value corresponding to the variation time of the special symbol set in the variation time timer is a value corresponding to the variation time of one special symbol.

  In this embodiment, the effect corresponding to the change of the special symbol is not executed in the effect device (the effect display device 9, the light emitter such as the LED 27, the speaker 27), but the change of the special symbol is performed using the effect device. An effect corresponding to may be executed.

  FIG. 46 is a flowchart showing special symbol variation handling processing (step S883) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the special symbol variation handling process, the effect control CPU 101 decrements the value of the variation time timer by -1 (step S941).

  In addition, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the variable time timer has timed out (step S942). When the variation time timer has timed out, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol variation end response process (step S884) (step S944). Even if the variation time timer has not timed out, if the special symbol variation end designation command reception flag indicating that the special symbol variation end designation command has been received is set (step S943), the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to step S944. Execute the process. Note that the special symbol variation end designation command reception flag is reset in the special symbol variation in-direction production termination process.

  FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end corresponding process (step S888) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the big hit end handling process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the big hit end time timer is set (step S951). When the big hit end time timer is set, the process proceeds to step S956. If the jackpot end time timer is not set, it is checked whether the jackpot end designation command reception flag is set (step S952). When the jackpot end designation command reception flag is set, the jackpot end designation command reception flag is reset (step S953), and the jackpot end time timer is set to the jackpot end time (corresponding to the time required for the jackpot end processing in the game control means). Is set to a value corresponding to the time (step S954).

  When the jackpot end time timer is operating, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the jackpot end time timer (step S956). Then, the production control CPU 101 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end time timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end time has elapsed (step S957). If not, the process ends. When the jackpot end time has elapsed, the CPU 101 for effect control confirms the type of jackpot. The jackpot type is confirmed by the display result specifying command stored in the display result specifying command storage area.

  If it is the second-B big hit, the continuous effect execution flag is reset (step S958). In cases other than the 2nd-B big hit, the continuous effect execution flag is not reset and the continuous effect continues (see step S923 in FIG. 45). If it is the second-B big hit, the continuation effect will end. That is, it is possible to execute a continuous effect from the beginning. This is because an effect process table is selected again in the processing of steps S923, S925, and S926 shown in FIG.

  If it is the first big hit, the probability changing flag is set (step S959). If it is not the first big hit, the probability changing flag is reset (step S960). It should be noted that when the probability changing flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 may perform an effect suggesting that the probability changing state is present.

  In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 sets / resets the probability change flag based on the received display result specifying command, but the game control microcomputer 560 is in the probability change state or the non-probability change state (normally An effect control command indicating that the state is) may be transmitted.

  On the other hand, if it is the second-B big hit, the high base state flag is reset (step S961). If it is not the second-B big hit, the high base state flag is set (step S962).

  In this embodiment, the production control CPU 101 sets / resets the high base state flag based on the received display result specifying command. However, the game control microcomputer 560 operates in the high base state or the low base state. It is also possible to transmit an effect control command indicating that this is true.

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol variation start designation command reception waiting process (step S881) (step S963).

  In this embodiment, the effect using the effect device (the effect display device 9, the light emitter, and the speaker 27) is not executed for the big hit game state, but the effect using the effect device is executed during the big hit game state. You may do it.

  48 to 52 are explanatory diagrams illustrating an example of a continuous effect (a series of effects).

  In the continuation effect illustrated in FIG. 48, an image 9a that prompts the operation of the stick controller 122 is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9 in addition to characters indicating the purpose of the continuation effect (see FIG. 48A). . Next, an image 9c showing the aim, images 9d and 9e showing the target, and a meter-like image 9b indicating the remaining number of the big hit counter (the number of big hits that can be generated before the limiter operation) are displayed (FIG. 48 ( B)).

  The production control microcomputer 100 moves the image 9c indicating the aim on the screen in accordance with the operation state of the stick controller 122 by the player (see FIGS. 48C and 48D), or whether the shell is fired. Such an image is displayed (see FIG. 48E).

  During the progress of the continuous effect, the effect control microcomputer 100 changes the state of the meter-shaped image 9b according to the number of executions of the special symbol variable display (see FIGS. 48B to 48E). ). That is, display control is performed so that the number of times suggesting the remaining number (the number of possible big hits) decreases.

  In the example shown in FIGS. 48 (F) and 48 (G), after the notification image 9f indicating that the shell has hit is displayed in the image indicating the target, the notification image 9g indicating that some value has been given to the player. Is displayed. When the notification image 9g is displayed, the effect control microcomputer 100 displays a portion indicating the remaining number of times of the meter-like image 9b as 100%.

  In the example shown in FIGS. 48 (F) and 48 (G), before the limiter is operated, the second big hit (initializing the limiter number (making the big hit number counter value 0)) This is an example that is executed when the error occurs.

  49, the states shown in FIGS. 49A to 49E are the same as the states shown in FIGS. 48A to 48E. However, in the example shown in FIG. 49, after the notification image 9f indicating that the shell has hit is displayed on the image showing the target (see FIG. 49F), it indicates that some value has been given to the player. The notification image 9g is not displayed (see FIG. 49G).

  In the example shown in FIGS. 49 (F) and 49 (G), before the limiter is activated, a first big hit (a big hit that updates the number of limiters (increases the value of the big hit number counter by 1)) occurs. It is an example that is executed when Therefore, the production control microcomputer 100 performs display control to reduce the portion suggesting the remaining number of times of the meter-like image 9b (see FIG. 49G).

  50 and FIG. 51, the states shown in FIGS. 50A to 50G are the same as the states shown in FIGS. 49A to 49G. However, in the example shown in FIGS. 50 and 51, an image 9h of a character (“Boss Appearance”) notifying that a special target has appeared is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9 (FIG. 50 (H )reference).

  The example shown in FIG. 50 (H) corresponds to an effect for suggesting that there is a possibility that the special game state (for example, the high base state) may be ended by operating the limiter when another big hit occurs. To do. That is, the value of the big hit number counter when the effect shown in FIG. 50 (H) is executed is “29”.

  Following the effects shown in FIG. 50 (H), the effects of FIGS. 51 (I) and (J) to (M), or the effects of FIGS. 51 (I) and (N) to (Q) are executed. . In the example shown in FIG. 51I, the special target is indicated by an image 9e.

  In the effects of FIGS. 51I and (J) to (M), an image is displayed as if a shell was fired toward the aim (see FIGS. 51 (J) and (K)), and an image 9e indicating the target. A notification image 9f indicating that the shell has hit is displayed (see FIG. 51L). Thereafter, a portion suggesting the remaining number of times of the meter-like image 9b is displayed as 100% (see FIG. 51M).

  51 (I) and (N) to (Q), an image is displayed as if a shell was fired toward the aim (see FIGS. 51 (N) and 51 (M)), indicating the target. A notification image 9i indicating that the shell did not hit is displayed on the image 9e (see FIG. 51 (P)). Thereafter, an image 9j indicating that the effect has ended is displayed (see FIG. 51 (Q)). Note that the image 9j indicating that the production has ended corresponds to an image for suggesting the transition to the low base state.

  51 (I) and (J) to (M) are produced when the limiter operates, the second-A big hit (initializing the limiter number (setting the value of the big hit number counter to 0) is as follows. This is an effect that is executed when a big hit that will result in a high base state occurs. 51 (I) and (N) to (Q) are produced when the limiter operates, the second-B big hit (initializes the number of limiters (sets the value of the big hit number counter to 0), low This is an effect that is executed when a big hit that will be in the base state occurs.

  The example of the continuous effect shown in FIG. 52 is an example when the player does not operate the stick controller 122 when the continuous effect is being executed. As shown in FIGS. 52 (A) to 52 (E), the production control microcomputer 100 performs display control for gradually reducing the portion that suggests the remaining number of times of the meter-like image 9b. Thereafter, when the remaining number of times becomes 0, an image 9j indicating that the effect has ended is displayed (see FIG. 52F).

  53 and 54 are flowcharts showing the continuous effect control process (step S880) shown in FIG. In the continuous effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the continuous effect execution flag indicating that the continuous effect is being executed is set (step S1000). If the continuous effect execution flag is not set, the process is terminated. The continuous effect execution flag is set in the process of step S927 shown in FIG. That is. It is set when the execution of the continuous effect based on the process table corresponding to the continuous effect is started.

  Production process execution data (see FIG. 39) for realizing the movement of the target images 9d and 9e during the continuous production and the background of the screen is set in the process table corresponding to the continuous production. In addition, the effect at the start of the continuous effect (see FIG. 48A, etc.) is executed by the processing of steps S929 to S931 shown in FIG.

  When the continuous effect execution flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 changes the state of the meter-shaped image 9b in accordance with the value of the big hit number counter (step S1002: FIG. 48 (B) to ( E) etc.). In other words, display control is performed so that the portion suggesting the remaining number of times (the number of possible big hits) is sized according to the value of the big number counter.

  Also, the value of the process timer is decremented by 1 (step S1003). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S1004). If the process timer has timed out, the process data is switched. That is, the process timer is started again by setting the process timer set value set next in the process table in the process timer (step S1005). Further, the control state for the effect device (effect component) is changed based on the display control execution data and the lamp control execution data set next (step S1006).

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 confirms an operation detection signal from the tilt direction sensor unit 123 provided at the lower portion of the stick controller 122 via the input port 107 (see FIG. 3) (step S1007). When the state of the operation detection signal is changed, the position of the image 9c indicating the aim is changed according to the changed operation detection signal, that is, according to the tilt direction of the stick controller 122 (step S1008).

  In this embodiment, it is detected that the stick controller 122 has been moved by the tilt direction sensor unit 123, but the stick controller 122 is rotatably provided and a sensor for detecting the rotation is provided, and a signal from the sensor is provided. May be used in combination to change the position of the image 9c indicating the aim.

  In addition, when the number of big hits reaches a predetermined number [in this example, (the limit value is 30) -1], the effect control CPU 101 sets one of the target images 9d and 9e as a special target. Change (steps S1011 and S1012: see FIG. 50H).

  The effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the push button 120 of the stick controller 122 has been pressed via the input port 106 (see FIG. 3) (step S1021). If the push button 120 has not been pressed, the process proceeds to step S1035. When the push button 120 is pressed, the content of the continuous effect is changed according to the situation.

  That is, in the processing of steps S1022 and S1023, when the display result specifying command (see step S642 in FIG. 34) stored in the display result specifying command storage area is the second jackpot designation command (see FIG. 9), After displaying the notification image 9f indicating that the shell has hit the image indicating the target in the effect display device 9 (see FIGS. 48E and 48F), the notification indicating that some value has been given to the player. An image 9g is displayed (see FIG. 48G).

  If the display result specifying command stored in the display result specifying command storage area is the first jackpot designation command (see FIG. 9) in the processes of steps S1024 and S1025, the effect display device 9 displays an image indicating the target. A notification image 9f indicating that the shell has hit is displayed (see FIGS. 49E and 49F).

  When the display result specifying command stored in the display result specifying command storage area is the 2-A jackpot specifying command (see FIG. 9) in the processing of steps S1031 and S1032, the effect display device 9 indicates the target. After displaying the notification image 9f indicating that the shell has hit the image, the portion indicating the remaining number of times of the meter-like image 9b is displayed as 100% (see FIGS. 51K, 51L, and 51M). ).

  If the display result specifying command stored in the display result specifying command storage area is the second-B jackpot designation command (see FIG. 9) in the processing of steps S1033 and S1034, the effect display device 9 indicates the target. After displaying a notification image 9i indicating that the shell did not hit the image, an effect end image (image indicating that the effect has ended) 9j is displayed (FIGS. 51 (O), (P), (Q)). reference).

  With the control described above, when the player presses the push button 120, an effect that suggests the gaming state after the big hit gaming state is completed is realized according to the determined big hit type.

  If the player wins the 2-B jackpot without performing any operation (step S1035), the effect control CPU 101 displays the effect end image 9j on the effect display device 9 (FIG. 52). (See (F)).

  The effect control CPU 101 detects, for example, that the state of the operation detection signal from the tilt direction sensor unit 123 has changed, or the push button 120 indicates that the player does not perform any operation. A flag is set when it is detected that the button is pressed, and when the flag is not set, it is determined that the player has not performed any operation.

  The processing shown in FIG. 54 displays the effect end image as shown in FIG. 51 (Q) or FIG. 52 (F) (see steps S1034 and S1036), but see the second 2-B jackpot FIG. 24). When it becomes, the continuation effect ends (see step S958 in FIG. 47).

  In the processing shown in FIG. 53 and FIG. 54, when the push button 120 is pressed, control according to the display result specifying command stored in the display result specifying command storage area is executed (steps). (See S1022 to S1034), the display result specifying command storage area retains the last received one until the next display result specifying command is received, so in practice the processing of steps S1022, S1024, S1031, and S1033 Then, for example, it is determined as “Y” in a predetermined period from the time when the display result specifying command is received (however, when the next display result specifying command is received before the predetermined period elapses). So that

  Further, the display content of the portion indicating the remaining number of times of the meter-like image 9b may be different from the value of the big hit number counter. For example, in most cases, the content may be displayed close to 100% (for example, 80%), and when the remaining number of times becomes smaller than a certain value, it may be decreased rapidly from that point.

  In this embodiment, on the condition that the player has operated the stick controller 122, an image for suggesting the type of jackpot (notification image for suggesting the second jackpot shown in FIG. 48). 9f, a notification image 9g, a notification image 9f for suggesting the first jackpot shown in FIG. 49, and a notification image 9f) for suggesting the second 2-A jackpot shown in FIG. The images (notification images 9i and 9j shown in FIG. 51) for displaying or suggesting that the limiter has been operated are displayed on the effect display device 9, but these are not subject to the player's operation. The image may be displayed.

  In that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 does not require the player's operation, and the jackpot type specified by the display result specifying command received from the game control microcomputer 100 and the value of the jackpot counter 48, the notification image 9f and the notification image 9g for suggesting the second jackpot shown in FIG. 48, the notification image 9f for suggesting the first jackpot shown in FIG. 49, and FIG. A notification image 9f for suggesting the 2-A big hit, a notification image 9i and an image for suggesting that the limiter shown in FIG. 51 is activated (also a suggestion that it is the second-B big hit). Control to display 9j on the effect display device 9 is performed.

  As described above, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment, the winning symbol is derived by the lottery performed based on the passing of the game ball through the gate 32A or 32B, and the symbol is derived to the normal symbol display 10. Then, it is controlled to the normal hit gaming state. In the normal winning gaming state, the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is opened, and a gaming ball can be won. When a game ball wins the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 in an open state, a big win lottery is performed. When a big hit is made in the big win lottery, the big win symbol is derived to the special symbol display 8 and controlled to the big hit gaming state.

  In addition, there are a high base state and a low base state as states that determine the probability of winning in the lottery that determines whether or not to control to the normal hit gaming state (not only the probability is determined), but in the high base state The winning probability is almost 249/250, whereas in the low base state, the winning probability is 1/250 and hardly wins. Depending on the type of jackpot (however, in most cases it will be in the high base state), it will be determined whether it will be in a high base state or a low base state after the jackpot game state ends. Even if it is determined, the low base state is maintained while being controlled in the jackpot gaming state.

  By the way, the normal winning gaming state includes a normal opening period in which the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is opened for 8 seconds. Just before the end of the normal opening period, a game ball is placed in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20. Sometimes you win. Assuming that a game ball wins the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 at the same time as the end of the normal opening period, a special symbol variable display is displayed for 0.5 seconds from there, and the jackpot gaming state is further set for 1.5 seconds. Be controlled. This 1.5 second jackpot gaming state is a period of low base state, so when trying to start variable display of a new normal symbol on the normal symbol display 10 during this period, the result is almost all In some cases it will be lost.

  However, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to this embodiment, the normal winning gaming state includes a normal closing period of 3 seconds in which the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is maintained in the closed state after the normal opening period of 8 seconds. Even during the normal closing period, the normal symbol display 10 does not start the variable display of a new normal symbol. The normal closing period of 3 seconds is longer than 2 seconds, which is the total period from the start of variable display of special symbols to the end of the jackpot gaming state, so the normal symbols are controlled while being controlled in the jackpot gaming state. A new variable display is not started on the display 10. That is, except for the case where the low base state is controlled based on the 2-B jackpot, there is no lottery regarding the normal symbols in the low base state. Even if it is controlled to the state, it is possible to prevent the player from being controlled to the normal hit gaming state without being hit by the variable display of the normal symbol for a long period of time.

  Further, 8 seconds of the normal opening period in which the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is opened in the normal winning gaming state is set to a period longer than 1.5 seconds of the period controlled to the big winning gaming state. . As a result, it is possible to shorten the period in which the jackpot gaming state in which the lottery regarding the regular symbols always has a low base and to increase the player's expectation.

  Also, when a game ball wins the special variable winning ball device 15 that is opened in the big hit gaming state, or when a game ball wins the normal variable winning ball device 20 that is opened in the normal hit gaming state. In each case, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. In the former case, the number of prize balls to be paid out is 4, whereas in the latter case, the number of prize balls to be paid out. Is 15 pieces. Thereby, in particular, the display result of the hit on the normal symbol display 10 is derived and the number of game balls possessed by the player can be expected by being controlled to the normal hit game state. Can be improved.

  The game control microcomputer 560 determines that the jackpot is to be a big hit in almost all cases, and when the value of the big hit number counter does not reach a predetermined value, the big hit type is updated and the big hit number counter value is updated. The first jackpot that will establish the transition condition to the special gaming state after the gaming state ends, or the value of the jackpot counter is initialized and the transition condition to the special gaming state after the jackpot gaming state ends Decide whether to be the second big hit that will be established, when the value of the big hit number counter reaches a predetermined value, the type of big hit, the value of the big hit number counter is initialized and the special game state end condition Or the value of the big hit number counter is initialized and the end condition of the special gaming state is satisfied. Decide whether or not to be the 2nd-A jackpot that will not be, and when the jackpot gaming state is finished, if it is decided to satisfy the termination condition of the special gaming state, transition the gaming state to the normal state If the condition for ending the special gaming state is determined not to be satisfied, the game state is shifted to the special gaming state because the transition condition to the special gaming state is satisfied. It is possible to improve the player's expectation until the end condition of the state is satisfied, and to improve the interest of the game when the end condition of the special game state is satisfied.

  Further, when the value of the big hit number counter does not reach a predetermined value, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the big hit type as the first big decision type random value for determining the big hit type as the first decision value (judgment values 0 to 10 in FIG. 24). ) Or the second determination value (determination values 11 to 18 in FIG. 24), it is determined to be the first jackpot, and the value of the big hit type determination random number is the third determination value (in FIG. 24). If it matches the determination value 19), it is determined to be the second jackpot, and when the value of the jackpot type determination random number becomes a predetermined value, the jackpot type is set to the first jackpot type determination random number value. 24 is determined to be the second-A big hit when it matches the third determination value (determination value 19 in FIG. 24), and the big hit type determining random number The value is the second determination value (FIG. 2 If the value of the big hit type determining random number matches the first judgment value or the second judgment value, the decision is made to be the second-B big hit. The advantage / disadvantage distribution for the player differs depending on whether the value of the big hit number counter becomes a predetermined value or not, and the interest of the game can be improved.

  Further, the continuous effect that is continuously executed until the value of the jackpot number counter reaches a predetermined value causes the player to pay attention to the effect that is executed on the effect display device 9 until the value of the jackpot number counter reaches a predetermined value. It is possible to improve the player's expectation until the value of the jackpot counter reaches a predetermined value.

  The player can adjust the left and right sides of the game area 7 as the launch destination of the game ball by adjusting the hit ball operation handle 5, but the special variable winning ball device 15 and the ordinary variable winning ball device 20 Is also provided in the area on the right side of the game area 7. In order to realize that the player can win the game ball in the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 and the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20, the player always aims at the right side of the game area 7 and fires the game ball. Therefore, the game can be performed efficiently.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
In the first embodiment, when a second big hit (a big hit that will initialize the value of the big hit number counter after the end of the big hit gaming state) occurs in the special gaming state, a notification to that effect ( 49 (F) and (G) are performed) (see steps S1022 and S1023), but at a time later than the time when the notification is determined to be the second big hit. You may make it perform.

  In the second embodiment, when the second big hit occurs, a notification that the second big hit has occurred is performed after the variable display of the special symbol is executed a predetermined number of times thereafter.

  FIG. 55 is a flowchart showing a part of the command analysis processing in the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, when the received display result specifying command is the second jackpot designation command, the presentation control CPU 101 sets the notification postponement flag and initially sets the postponement variation counter value to 0. (Step S643).

  FIG. 56 is a flowchart showing special symbol variation start corresponding processing in the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 sets the continuation effect flag (step S924), and when the notification postponement flag is set (step S935), the postponement variation counter is set. The value is incremented by 1 (step S936). When the value of the postponement variation counter reaches a predetermined value (for example, 5), a screen for notifying the second big hit is displayed on the effect display device 9 (step S938). Further, the notification postponing flag is reset (step S939).

  Other processes are the same as those of the first embodiment. However, in the second embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 deletes the screen for notifying the second jackpot in the special symbol variation end handling process. In the second embodiment, the processes in steps S1022 and S1023 shown in FIG. 53 are not executed.

  Note that the screen for notifying the second jackpot is, for example, a screen as shown in FIG.

  In addition, regarding the delay of notification of the occurrence of the second jackpot, in this example, the delay is made until five special symbol variations are completed, but five jackpots may occur during that time. If the value of the big hit count counter when the notification postponement flag is set is close to the limit value (for example, 25 or more), there is a possibility that the limiter has already been activated when the notification timing of occurrence of the second big hit has arrived. There is. In order to avoid such a situation, when the value of the big hit number counter is close to the limit value, the notification of the second big hit occurrence is not delayed, or the second hit before the limiter is activated. A value at which notification of occurrence of a big hit is executed may be set in the postponement variation counter.

  Further, in this embodiment, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes the effect for notifying the second big hit during the change of the special symbol, but the second big hit is made in the big hit gaming state or in the big hit end process. You may perform the effect for alerting | reporting. Further, in this embodiment, when the notification postponement flag is set, if a special symbol change is executed a predetermined number of times, an effect for notifying the second jackpot is executed, but the notification postponement flag is set. When a predetermined number of big hits occur, an effect for informing the second big hit may be executed.

  Further, in this embodiment, the notification about the second big hit is always delayed, but it may be determined whether the notification is caused by lottery, or the degree of delay may be determined by lottery ( For example, determine how many times the special symbol changes will be notified). In that case, for example, when the second jackpot designation command is received (see step S643), for example, it is determined whether or not to set the notification postponement flag by lottery using a random number, or by lottery using a random number, for example. In step S937, a predetermined value to be compared is determined.

  Further, in this embodiment, the notification about the second big hit is delayed, but the notification (the notification as shown in FIGS. 49F and 49G) is also delayed for the first big hit. Also good.

  By delaying the notification about the second jackpot in this way, the player's sense of expectation for the continuation of the high base state can be further improved.

Embodiment 3 FIG.
In the third embodiment, the mode of the continuous effect is changed according to the value of the big hit number counter. FIG. 57 is a flowchart showing a part of the continuous effect control process in the third embodiment. In the third embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 executes an effect mode change process for changing the effect mode of the continuous effect in the continuous effect control process (step S1001).

  FIG. 58 is a flowchart showing the effect mode changing process. In the effect mode changing process, if the value of the big hit number counter is less than 8, the effect control CPU 101 changes the display screen of the effect display device 9 to the notification A screen at a rate of 90% and produces an effect at a rate of 10%. The display screen of the display device 9 is changed to the notification B screen (steps S1041 and S1042). If the value of the big hit number counter is less than 25, the display screen of the effect display device 9 is changed to the notification A screen at a rate of 20%, and the display screen of the effect display device 9 is changed to the notification B screen at a rate of 80%. (Steps S1043 and S1044). If the value of the big hit number counter is 25 or more, the display screen of the effect display device 9 is changed to the notification B screen at a rate of 100% (step S1045). Other processes are the same as those in the first embodiment.

  The notification A screen is, for example, a screen with a blue background color, and the notification B screen is, for example, a screen with a red background color. Note that the content of the continuation effect is the same as the content illustrated in FIGS. However, you may make it change the production | presentation aspect of a continuous production by changing the content of a continuous production.

  With the above control, the background color tends to be blue when the value of the big hit counter is small, and the background color tends to be red when the value of the big hit counter is medium. When the value of is close to the limit value, the background color is red.

  In other words, the continuous production is composed of multiple stages of production (transition from production on a screen with a blue background to production on a red screen, or from production on a screen with a red background to blue production. There may be a transition to an effect on the screen.) The effect control CPU 101 selects an effect at any one of a plurality of effects. When the effect on the screen with the blue background color and the effect on the screen with the red background color are regarded as different effects, the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the big hit number counter. In response, any aspect of the effect is selected.

  In this embodiment, two types of modes of production on the blue screen and production on the red screen are illustrated as modes that can be selected, but there are three or more modes that can be selected. There may be.

  In this embodiment, the player can predict the number of big hits (remaining number of times) that can occur before the probable change state ends according to the mode of the continuous effect. For example, if the background color is blue, it can be expected that the remaining number is large, and if the background color is red, the remaining number can be expected to be small. In this embodiment, the meter-like image 9b indicating the remaining number of the big hit counters may not be displayed on the effect display device 9.

  Moreover, instead of realizing a plurality of types of effect modes of continuous effects by changing the background color, for example, a plurality of types of effect modes are realized by changing the degree of change in the remaining number of times of the meter-like image 9b. May be. For example, it decreases rapidly in the first mode, and gradually decreases in the second mode. Even in such a control, the suggestion of the remaining number of times by the meter-like image 9b and the number of jackpots are not strictly matched, but are generally linked.

  Note that the first embodiment and the second embodiment may be used together, or the first embodiment and the third embodiment may be used together. The first to third embodiments may be used in combination.

Embodiment 4 FIG.
In this embodiment, the normal closing period in the normal jackpot gaming state is only 1.5 seconds, and 2 seconds from the start of variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 10 to the end of the jackpot gaming state. Is shorter. Therefore, if a game ball wins the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 immediately before the normal opening period ends, the big hit game state controlled based on this will not be finished, that is, a big hit other than the second-B big win. Even if it is controlled to the low base state, the variable display of a new normal symbol may be started on the normal symbol display 10.

  However, in this embodiment, when variable display of a new normal symbol is started on the normal symbol display 10 in the low base state when being controlled to the jackpot gaming state, it is controlled to the jackpot gaming state. The selection of the variation pattern is different from the low base state (low base state controlled based on the second 2-B jackpot) when not. FIG. 59 is a diagram showing an example of a variation pattern selected while being controlled to the jackpot gaming state. As shown in the figure, the variation pattern selected while being controlled in the jackpot gaming state is the same as in the other low base state in the case of a big hit, but the variation time in the case of a loss Only one second is selected.

  FIG. 60 is a timing chart for explaining variable display of normal symbols and decorative symbols, variable display of special symbols, normal hit gaming state, big hit gaming state, and high base / low base control in this embodiment. . In FIG. 60, it is assumed that the lottery regarding the special symbol will not result in the second-B jackpot.

  As shown in the drawing, based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the gate 32A or the gate 32B, the normal symbol display 10 and the effect display device 9 change the normal symbol and the decorative symbol, and the display result of the normal symbol is the winning symbol. In this case, the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is controlled to be open for 8 seconds. Thereafter, the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is maintained in the closed state for 1.5 seconds, and then the normal hit gaming state is ended. While the normally variable winning ball device 20 is controlled to be in the open state, the game ball can win (pass) in the starting area, and the starting condition of the special symbol can be satisfied.

  If the special symbol display 8 is in a state where the variation of the special symbol can be started, the special symbol display 8 will display a special symbol based on the establishment of the special symbol start condition (the winning of the game ball to the normal variable winning ball device 20). The symbol variation is executed. When the display result of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the game is shifted to the jackpot gaming state. That is, the special winning opening (special variable winning ball apparatus 15) is controlled to be in an open state for a predetermined number of times (for example, twice) with a closing time of a predetermined time (in this embodiment, 0.2 seconds). The opening time is 0.5 seconds in this embodiment. Further, after the second open state ends, the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 is maintained in the closed state for a predetermined time (in this embodiment, 0.3 seconds), and then the big hit gaming state is ended.

  As shown in FIG. 60, during the total period from the start of the variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 until the end of the jackpot gaming state, the normal variable winning ball before the end of the normal winning gaming state. It is 2 seconds longer than 1.5 seconds when the device 20 is kept closed. Therefore, if a game ball wins the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 immediately before the normal opening period ends, the big hit gaming state controlled based on this will continue even after the normal winning gaming state ends. is there. When there is a gate passing memory, the normal symbol display 10 starts variable display of a new normal symbol at the same time as the normal hit gaming state ends, but at this time it is still controlled to the big hit gaming state. In most cases, it is lost, but the variation pattern to be selected is selected to have a very short variation time of 1 second. When 1 second has elapsed from the start of the normal symbol variable display and the variable display ends, if there is further memory passing through the gate, a new variable variable normal display is normally displayed following the end of the previous variable display. It starts with the symbol display 10. At the start of this new variable display, 2.5 seconds have elapsed since the end of the normal release period in the previous normal hit gaming state, so the big hit gaming state has been ended by that time. In the high base state, the lottery regarding the normal symbol is performed.

  As described above, even when the big hit gaming state (that is, the low base state) is still continued at the time when the normal winning gaming state ends, the fluctuation pattern of the normal symbol started at that time is the fluctuation time. Is very short. Then, even if the lottery regarding the normal symbol is almost lost due to the low base state in the jackpot game state, if there is a memory passing through the gate, the variable display of a new normal symbol is started immediately. Or, even if there is no gate passing memory, if the game ball passes through the gate 32A or 32B, the variable display of a new normal symbol is started immediately. When the variable display of these normal symbols is started, since the big hit gaming state has already ended, the lottery regarding the normal symbols can be performed in the high base state. As a result, even if it is controlled to the low base state while being controlled to the big hit gaming state, it will not be controlled to the normal hit gaming state without being hit by variable display of normal symbols over a long period of time. Can be prevented.

Embodiment 5 FIG.
Also in this embodiment, the normal closing period in the normal jackpot gaming state is only 1.5 seconds, and 2 seconds from the start of variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 10 to the end of the jackpot gaming state. Is shorter. Therefore, if a game ball wins the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 immediately before the normal opening period ends, the big hit game state controlled based on this will not be finished, that is, a big hit other than the second-B big win. Even if it is controlled to the low base state, the variable display of a new normal symbol may be started on the normal symbol display 10.

  In this embodiment, the selection of the variation pattern shown in FIG. 59 is not applied when being controlled to the big hit gaming state, but a predetermined number of times (for example, two times) after the normal winning gaming state ends. This is applied when variable display of normal symbols is performed.

  FIG. 61 is a timing chart for explaining variable display of normal symbols and decoration symbols, variable display of special symbols, normal hit gaming state, big hit gaming state, and high base / low base control in this embodiment. . In FIG. 61, it is assumed that the 2nd-B jackpot is not won in the lottery regarding the special symbol.

  As shown in FIG. 61, also in this example, when a game ball wins the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 immediately before the normal opening period ends, the big hit gaming state controlled based on the game ball is the normal winning game. May continue after the condition ends. When there is a gate passing memory, the normal symbol display 10 starts variable display of a new normal symbol at the same time as the normal hit gaming state ends, but at this time it is still controlled to the big hit gaming state. In most cases, it will result in a loss, but since the normal bonus game state ends, it is still the first normal symbol variation display, so the variation pattern selected is very short with a variation time of 1 second. Selected. When 1 second has elapsed from the start of the normal symbol variable display and the variable display ends, if there is further memory passing through the gate, a new variable variable normal display is normally displayed following the end of the previous variable display. It starts with the symbol display 10. At the start of this new variable display, 2.5 seconds have elapsed since the end of the normal release period in the previous normal hit gaming state, so the big hit gaming state has been ended by that time. In the high base state, the lottery regarding the normal symbol is performed.

  As described above, even when the big hit gaming state (that is, the low base state) is still continued at the time when the normal hit gaming state is ended, it is selected from the end of the normal big hit gaming state to a predetermined number of times. The variation pattern of normal symbols has a very short variation time. Then, even if the lottery regarding the normal symbol is almost lost due to the fact that the big hit gaming state continues and the low base state after the normal winning gaming state ends, if there is memory passing through the gate, a new one will be immediately The variable display of normal symbols is started. Or, even if there is no gate passing memory, if the game ball passes through the gate 32A or 32B, the variable display of a new normal symbol is started immediately. When the variable display of these normal symbols is started, since the big hit gaming state has already ended, the lottery regarding the normal symbols can be performed in the high base state. As a result, even if it is controlled to the low base state while being controlled to the big hit gaming state, it will not be controlled to the normal hit gaming state without being hit by variable display of normal symbols over a long period of time. Can be prevented.

Embodiment 6 FIG.
In this embodiment, the length of the special opening period for changing the special variable winning ball device 15 to the open state in the jackpot gaming state from the start of the variable symbol special display to the display result derivation is any type. In the case of a big hit, it is the same as each of the above embodiments. The length of the special closing period for maintaining the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 in the closed state after the special opening period in the jackpot gaming state is the same as that in each of the above embodiments in the jackpot gaming state based on the jackpot other than the second-B jackpot. However, in the jackpot gaming state based on the second-B jackpot that is controlled to the low base state after the jackpot gaming state ends, it is assumed that there are 6.8 seconds. That is, it is assumed that the period controlled to the jackpot gaming state based on the second 2-B jackpot is only 8 seconds which is the same as the normal opening period in which the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is changed to the opened state in the normal jackpot gaming state. . That is, when the 2nd-B jackpot is generated, the time required from the start of variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 to the end of the jackpot gaming state is determined by the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20. It is longer than the time for changing to the open state.

  FIG. 62 is a timing chart for explaining variable display of normal symbols and decorative symbols, variable display of special symbols, normal hit gaming state, big hit gaming state, and high base / low base control in this embodiment. . In this example, it is assumed that the value of the jackpot count counter immediately before the normal jackpot gaming state is started is 28 and is controlled to the high base state. When the first game ball wins the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 in the normal opening period of 8 seconds in which the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is in the open state, the value of the big hit number counter is updated to 29. A first jackpot is generated and controlled to the jackpot gaming state. The time required for the end of the jackpot gaming state after the variable symbol display is started on the special symbol display 8 based on the winning of the first game ball is 2 seconds. Even if the game ends, the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is still in an open state, and is controlled to a high base state as the jackpot gaming state ends.

  When the second game ball is won while the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is in the open state, the value of the big hit number counter is 29 at this time, so that the second big hit occurs. Become. Here, it is assumed that the second 2-B jackpot is generated when 0.5 seconds have elapsed since the variable symbol display was started based on the winning of the second game ball. In this case, the period during which the special variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to be in the open state is 1.2 seconds, which is the same as the case where other jackpots are generated, but the period during which the special variable winning ball device 15 is maintained in the closed state. Is 6.8 seconds, and it takes 8 seconds for the jackpot gaming state to end.

  Since the winning of the game ball to the normal variable winning ball device 20 is not stored on hold, even if the game ball wins the normal variable winning ball device 20 later than the game ball that generated the second-B jackpot, the special symbol display The variable display of a new special symbol is not started in the device 8, and therefore, a new jackpot lottery is not performed. Also, since the jackpot gaming state controlled based on the 2-B jackpot continues for 8 seconds, the normal release period always ends before this is finished, and it is newly controlled to the normal winning gaming state. Unless otherwise, the game ball will not win the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 after the 2nd-B jackpot gaming state ends. Accordingly, when the second-B jackpot is generated, the normal winning gaming state is terminated without generating another jackpot. After the jackpot gaming state based on the 2-B jackpot is over, it will be controlled to the low base state even after the jackpot gaming state is finished, so the low base state will continue unless a new win occurs in the lottery for normal symbols Will be.

  As described above, when the value of the jackpot count counter reaches the limit value, the second-B jackpot that is controlled to the low base state is generated with a relatively high probability. Based on the occurrence of the second-B jackpot, The controlled jackpot gaming state continues for the same 8 seconds as the normal opening period in the normal winning gaming state. During this time, even if a new game ball is won in the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20, the special symbol display 10 does not start the variable display of a new special symbol, and therefore the second generated previously -A jackpot other than the jackpot won't occur. Since the jackpot gaming state controlled based on the occurrence of the second 2-B jackpot continues for 8 seconds, the normal winning gaming state is always ended at this time.

  For this reason, another game ball from the time when the value of the jackpot counter reaches the limit value and the second-B jackpot with control to the low base state occurs until the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is closed. Even if a prize is won, it will not be controlled to a high base state unless another normal winning gaming state occurs. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the control in the high base state from being continued until the number of times that the limit value is substantially exceeded, and it is possible to suppress the shot characteristics.

Embodiment 7 FIG.
In this embodiment, the length of the special opening period for changing the special variable winning ball device 15 to the open state in the jackpot gaming state from the start of the variable symbol special display to the display result derivation is the type of jackpot The same as in the sixth embodiment. However, the jackpot gaming state based on the second-B jackpot, which is controlled to the low base state after the jackpot gaming state ends, is basically controlled only for a period of 6.8 seconds. When the ball wins, it is forcibly terminated at that time (if the special variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, it is changed to the closed state at that time). In other words, when the 2nd-B jackpot is generated, the time taken from the start of variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 until the end of the jackpot gaming state is essentially a normal variable prize. It is longer than the time required for the ball device 20 to be changed to the open state, but shorter than the time required for the normal variable winning ball device 20 to be changed to the open state on condition that the game ball wins the special variable winning ball device 15. Become. Further, when the game ball wins the special variable winning ball device 15 while being controlled to the big hit gaming state based on the occurrence of the second-B jackpot, a special image is displayed on the effect display device 9 from there for a predetermined period. A special effect is displayed.

  FIG. 63 is a timing chart for explaining the variable display of the normal symbol and the decorative symbol, the variable display of the special symbol, the normal hit gaming state, the big hit gaming state, and the high base / low base control in this embodiment. . In this example, the second game ball is won while the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is in the open state, and the same as in the example of FIG. 62 until the second 2-B jackpot is generated based on this. It is. If the game ball is not won in the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 during this period when the second 2-B jackpot is generated, the game is controlled to the jackpot gaming state. Even if a game ball wins the normal variable winning ball device 20 after the generated game ball, the special symbol display 8 does not start the variable display of a new special symbol, and therefore a new jackpot. There will be no lottery.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 63, when a game ball is won in the special variable winning ball device 15 while being controlled to the big hit game state by the occurrence of the second-B big hit, the big hit game state is compulsory at this time. To be terminated. At this time, the value of the jackpot count counter is initialized to 0, but even if the jackpot gaming state ends, the low probability low base state is maintained. However, if the normal variable winning ball device 20 is still open when the jackpot gaming state is forcibly terminated, if the game ball wins the normal variable winning ball device 20 before it is closed, Based on this, a new jackpot lottery will be performed. The value of the jackpot count counter is updated and the first jackpot is generated in almost all cases, and the jackpot game state is controlled. After the jackpot gaming state is finished, the low base state is controlled to the high base state.

  As described above, when the value of the jackpot count counter reaches the limit value, the second-B jackpot that is controlled to the low base state is generated with a relatively high probability. Based on the occurrence of the second-B jackpot, The controlled jackpot gaming state continues for the same 8 seconds as the normal opening period in the normal winning gaming state. However, if a game ball wins the special variable winning ball device 15 while being controlled to the jackpot gaming state, the jackpot gaming state is forcibly terminated, and the normal variable winning ball device 20 is still opened at this point. There may be. When a new game ball wins before the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is closed, a big win different from the second-B big win that has occurred in most cases is generated, and the big win gaming state based on this When is finished, the high base state is controlled.

  For this reason, when the value of the jackpot counter reaches the limit value and the second-B jackpot accompanied by the control to the low base state occurs, the special variable winning ball device 15 is finished until the jackpot gaming state based on this is finished. If the game ball wins, the jackpot gaming state is forcibly terminated, and if the normal variable winning ball device 20 is still open at that time, the gaming state after the normal variable winning ball device 20 is closed This leaves an opportunity to control the to a high base state. Moreover, when a game ball wins the normal variable winning ball device 20 by taking advantage of this chance and is controlled to the high base state again, in any case, the limit value of the big hit number counter due to the occurrence of the second 2-B big hit. Since has been initialized, it is still far from reaching the next limit value. Thereby, it is possible to increase the player's expectation by giving the opportunity for the high base state to continue until the number of times that the limit value is substantially exceeded, and to improve the interest of the game.

  Further, the number of times that the limit value is substantially exceeded by the special effect executed when the game ball wins the special variable winning device 15 while being controlled to the jackpot gaming state based on the occurrence of the second-B jackpot. Since it is clearly shown to the player that the opportunity to continue the high base state is given, it is possible to further enhance the player's expectation for the continuation of the high base state.

Embodiment 8 FIG.
In this embodiment, the length of the special opening period for changing the special variable winning ball device 15 to the open state in the jackpot gaming state from the start of the variable symbol special display to the display result derivation is any type. In the case of a big hit, it is the same as each of the above embodiments. Any type of jackpot is assumed to be the same as each of the above embodiments. The length of the special closing period for maintaining the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 in the closed state after the special opening period in the jackpot gaming state is the same as that in each of the above embodiments in the jackpot gaming state based on the jackpot other than the second-B jackpot. However, in the jackpot gaming state based on the second-B jackpot that is controlled to the low base state after the jackpot gaming state ends, it is 0.3 seconds as in the case of the jackpot gaming state based on other types of jackpots It may be the same 6.8 seconds as in the sixth and seventh embodiments.

  In other words, the second 2-B jackpot in this embodiment includes the second 2-B1 jackpot, in which the time controlled in the jackpot gaming state including the time for variable symbol special display is 2 seconds, and 8.5 seconds. For example, 11 to 13 are set as determination values corresponding to the second B1 big hit, and 14 to 18 are set as determination values corresponding to the second B2 big hit. . As described above, in the present embodiment, depending on the type of the 2-B jackpot, the time required from the start of variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 until the end of the jackpot gaming state is an ordinary variable winning ball. There are cases where it becomes longer or shorter than the time during which the apparatus 20 is changed to the open state. Further, a special effect for displaying a special image on the effect display device 9 is executed while being controlled to the jackpot gaming state based on the occurrence of the second-B1 jackpot.

  FIG. 64 is a timing chart for explaining variable display of normal symbols and decorative symbols, variable display of special symbols, normal hit gaming state, big hit gaming state, and high base / low base control in this embodiment. . This example is the same as the example in FIG. 62 until the second game ball is won while the normal variable winning ball device 20 is in the open state. In this example, it is assumed that the second 2-B1 jackpot is generated as the second jackpot based on the winning of the second game ball. The time required for the end of the jackpot gaming state after the variable symbol display is started on the special symbol display 8 based on the winning of the second game ball is 2 seconds. Even if the game ends, the low base state is still continued, but the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is still in an open state when the jackpot gaming state ends.

  When another game ball wins before the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 that has been opened when the jackpot gaming state based on the No. 2-B1 jackpot ends is closed, a new jackpot is made based on this. A lottery will be held. At this time, the value of the jackpot number counter is updated and the first jackpot is generated in almost all cases, and the jackpot game state is controlled. After the jackpot gaming state is finished, the low base state is controlled to the high base state.

  As described above, when the value of the jackpot counter reaches the limit value, the second-B jackpot that is controlled to the low base state with a relatively high probability occurs. The second-B2 jackpot that continues the jackpot gaming state for 8 seconds (8.5 seconds from the start of the variable symbol special display), which is the same as the normal opening period in the gaming state, and 1.5 seconds as with other types of jackpots There is a second-B1 jackpot that continues the jackpot gaming state for only 2 seconds from the start of the variable symbol special display. Of course, when the 2nd-B2 jackpot is reached, the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is always closed when the jackpot gaming state ends, but when the 2nd-B1 jackpot is reached, the jackpot gaming state is reached. The normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 may still be in an open state at the time when is completed. When a new game ball wins before the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is closed, a big win different from the second-B big win that has occurred in most cases is generated, and the big win gaming state based on this When is finished, the high base state is controlled.

  For this reason, if the value of the jackpot counter reaches the limit value and the second-B jackpot is determined as the second-B jackpot with the control to the low base state, the jackpot gaming state is still finished when the second-B1 jackpot is determined. If the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is in the open state, there remains a chance to control the gaming state after the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is closed to the high base state. Moreover, when a game ball wins the normal variable winning ball device 20 by taking advantage of this chance and is controlled to the high base state again, in any case, the limit value of the big hit number counter due to the occurrence of the second 2-B big hit. Since has been initialized, it is still far from reaching the next limit value. Thereby, it is possible to increase the player's expectation by giving the opportunity for the high base state to continue until the number of times that the limit value is substantially exceeded, and to improve the interest of the game.

  Furthermore, the special effect executed while being controlled to the jackpot gaming state based on the occurrence of the No. 2-B1 jackpot gave the opportunity to continue the high base state until the number of times exceeding the limit value substantially. This is clearly shown to the player, so that the player's expectation for the continuation of the high base state can be further enhanced.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications and applications are possible. Hereinafter, modifications of the above-described embodiment applicable to the present invention will be described.

  In each of the above embodiments, the winning probability of the special symbol when the gaming state is the normal gaming state (normal state) is 98%, but the winning probability of the special symbol when the gaming state is the normal state is 98%. Instead, regardless of whether the gaming state is a normal state or a probable variation state, the winning probability of a special symbol may always be 100%. In that case, if the stop symbol of the normal symbol becomes a winning symbol and the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is released and a start winning occurs, the stop symbol of the special symbol will always be a big hit, so check the gaming state and determine the big hit There is no need to switch the table or set the big hit flag. In addition, it is not necessary to check whether or not a big hit is made by the big hit flag. Therefore, the program capacity can be reduced and the processing load can be reduced.

  Further, when the winning probability of the special symbol is set to 100%, the jackpot determination random number itself may be eliminated and the jackpot determination process may be omitted. In that case, since the big win is decided when the start winning of the special symbol occurs, the big hit flag may be set when the start winning of the special symbol occurs. When the change of the special symbol is finished and the special symbol is stopped, it is confirmed that the jackpot flag is set. When the jackpot flag is set, the process shifts to the pre-opening process for the big prize opening. Alternatively, the big hit flag may not be set when a special symbol start winning occurs. In this case, when the variation of the special symbol is finished and the special symbol is stopped, the process is automatically shifted to the pre-opening process for the big prize opening. According to such a configuration, the program capacity can be reduced and the processing load can be reduced.

  In the above embodiment, the variation pattern that can specify the variation time of the special symbol is one type, and the variation time of the special symbol is constant, but there are a plurality of variation patterns that can identify the variation time of the special symbol. It is also possible to select a variation pattern corresponding to the result of jackpot determination or the result of jackpot type in the special symbol variation start processing in the special symbol process processing. In addition, a variation pattern command that can identify the variation pattern determined in the special symbol variation start process is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100, and the effect control microcomputer 100 identifies a variation pattern (variation time) identified by the variation pattern command. ) May be executed.

  Further, in the above embodiment, when the transition is made to the high base state (short-time state), the winning probability of the special symbol cannot be improved, but the winning probability of the normal symbol is improved (see FIG. 14). ). Further, in the probability variation state and the short time state, not only the winning probability of the normal symbol but also any one of the shortening of the variation time of the ordinary symbol, the shortening of the variation time of the special symbol, and the extension of the opening time of the ordinary variable winning ball apparatus 20 May be controlled to a state in accordance with the improvement of the probability of winning a normal symbol, or may be controlled to a combination of any of them, and further controlled to a combination of all of them. You may do it. Note that the winning probability of the normal symbol may be improved in accordance with the shift of the short time state.

  In the above-described embodiment, the effect control board 80, the audio output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as a board on which a circuit for controlling the effect device is mounted. May be mounted on one substrate. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) on which a circuit for controlling the effect display device 9 and the like is mounted, and a second circuit on which circuits for controlling other effect devices (LED, speaker 27, etc.) are mounted. You may make it provide two board | substrates with an effect control board | substrate.

  In the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 directly transmits a command to the effect control microcomputer 100. However, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits another command (for example, FIG. 3). The sound output board 70 and the lamp driver board 35 shown in FIG. 5 or the sound / lamp board having the function of the circuit mounted on the sound output board 70 and the function of the circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35). A control command may be transmitted and transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 on the effect control board 80 via another board. In that case, the command may simply pass through another board, or the sound output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound / lamp board are equipped with control means such as a microcomputer, and the control means receives the command. In response to this, control related to voice control and light emitter control is executed, and the received command is changed as it is or, for example, to a simplified command to control the effect display device 9. You may make it transmit to 100. Even in that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control in accordance with the effect control command directly received from the game control microcomputer 560 in the above-described embodiment. Display control can be performed in accordance with commands received from the board 35 or the sound / lamp board.

  The present invention is applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine in which a start winning is likely to occur when the variable winning ball device (ordinary electric accessory, special variable winning ball device 15) is open.

1 Pachinko machine 8 Special symbol display device 9 Production display device 10 Normal symbol display device 15 Special variable winning ball device (big prize opening)
20 Ordinary variable winning ball equipment (ordinary electric equipment)
31 Main board 32A, 32B Gate 80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 560 Game control microcomputer

Claims (7)

Variable display means for starting the variable display of the identification information and deriving the display result based on the fact that the game medium has entered the start area, and when a predetermined specific display result is derived to the variable display means A gaming machine that shifts to a specific gaming state, and when a predetermined transition condition is satisfied, shifts to a special gaming state that is easier to shift to the specific gaming state than when the specific gaming state is finished ,
A start winning device having the start area and capable of changing between a first state in which a game medium easily enters the start area and a second state in which the game medium is difficult to enter or does not enter the start area;
A means for determining whether or not to change the starting prize-winning device to the first state based on the establishment of the normal starting condition, and to change to the first state with a first probability when in the normal gaming state. Ordinary pre-determining means for determining that it is to be changed to the first state with a second probability higher than the first probability when in the special gaming state;
The means for starting the variable display of the normal identification information based on the determination result of the normal prior determination means and deriving the display result, wherein the average time from the start to the end of the variable display of the normal identification information is the normal game Normal variable display means for variably displaying the normal identification information so as to be a first time when in a state, and a second time equal to or less than the first time when in the special gaming state;
Start winning device control means for changing the start winning device to the first state in accordance with the display result derived to the normal variable display means;
It has a specific area different from the start area, and when the game medium is shifted to the specific game state, it is difficult for the game medium to enter the specific area or from the state where the game medium easily enters the specific area. A specific winning device that can be changed,
Specific determination means for determining whether or not to shift to the specific gaming state based on the fact that a game medium has entered the starting area, before the display result is derived to the variable display means;
Variable display control means for starting variable display of the identification information and deriving a display result in the variable display means based on the determination result of the specific determination means;
Specific game state control means for controlling to the specific game state according to the display result derived to the variable display means;
Numeric data changing means for changing the value of predetermined numeric data,
The specific determination means includes
In the almost all cases, it is determined to shift to the specific gaming state, and the type of the specific gaming state in the case of shifting to the specific gaming state is determined,
When the value of the predetermined numerical data is not a predetermined value, the type of the specific gaming state is updated by the numerical data changing means so that the value of the predetermined numerical data approaches the predetermined value. The specific gaming state that satisfies the predetermined transition condition after completion of the specific gaming state is set, or the value of the predetermined numerical data is initialized by the numerical data changing means, and after the specific gaming state is ended Decide whether to make the specific gaming state to satisfy a predetermined transition condition,
When the value of the predetermined numerical data is equal to the predetermined value, the type of the specific gaming state is set by the numerical data changing means so that the value of the predetermined numerical data is initialized and a predetermined end condition is set. Determining whether the specific gaming state to be established or whether the predetermined numerical data value is initialized by the numerical data changing means and the predetermined ending condition is not established;
The gaming state control means shifts the gaming state after the specific gaming state is ended to the normal state when the specific deciding means has decided to establish the predetermined ending condition, and If it is determined by the determining means that the predetermined termination condition is not satisfied, the gaming state after the specific gaming state is terminated is transferred to the special gaming state as the predetermined transition condition is satisfied,
The specific game state control means has a period of time required from the start of variable display of the identification information in the variable display means to the end of control to the specific game state that satisfies the predetermined end condition. When the game medium does not enter the specific area while the specific winning device is being changed to a state where it is easy to enter the specific area, the start winning device starts to change to the first state. A period that is longer than the period required to end, and a period shorter than the period required from the start to change to the first state of the start winning device when the game medium enters the specific area. Thus, the gaming machine is controlled to the specific gaming state. Providing production means for performing a predetermined production using a production device provided in the gaming machine,
In the specific game state in which the value of the predetermined numerical data is initialized and the predetermined end condition is satisfied, the effect means enters the specific area while the specific winning device is changed. The game machine according to claim 1, wherein a predetermined special effect is executed. A means for giving a game medium to a player based on a game medium entering the winning area including the start area and the specific area, and when the game medium enters the start area, The game machine according to claim 1, further comprising game medium providing means for providing a larger number of game media than when the medium enters. The start winning device control means changes the start winning device to the first state over a period longer than the duration of the specific gaming state. The gaming machine described. Providing directing means for performing a series of effects using the effect device provided in the gaming machine,
The said effect means starts the said series of effects on condition that it transfers to the said special game state, and performs the said series of effects continuously until predetermined end conditions are satisfied. The gaming machine according to any one of 1 to 4. Providing production means for performing a predetermined production using a production device provided in the gaming machine,
The rendering means is configured such that when the value of the predetermined numerical data is not a predetermined value, the specific determining means initializes the value of the predetermined numerical data by the numerical data changing means and after the specific gaming state ends. A delay notification means for performing an effect of notifying that it is determined to initialize the value of the predetermined numerical data at a time later than the time when it is determined to be in the specific gaming state that satisfies the predetermined transition condition; The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the gaming machine is included. The game area includes a first area and a second area that the player can select as a launch destination of the game medium,
The game area includes a first area and a second area that the player can select as a launch destination of the game medium,
The specific winning device and the start winning device are both provided in one of the first region and the second region. 7. The gaming machine described in 1.

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