JP2011218044A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of improving player's expectations for control to a specified game state by a series of performances and improving amusement of a game as a result.SOLUTION: A microcomputer for performance control executes data determination processing of determining whether there are determination data to be controlled to the specified game state among the determination data corresponding to two or more times of variable display of identification information including the variable display of identification information for ending a high probability state stored in a holding storage means, and executes a series of performances over two or more times of the variable display on the basis of the determination result of the data determination processing.

Description

  In the present invention, a player can play a predetermined game using a game medium, and the variable information is displayed in a variable manner based on the fact that the variable display start condition is satisfied after the game medium enters the start area. Variable display means for deriving and displaying the display result by starting, and when a predetermined specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display means, it is controlled to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player, and the specific gaming state is ended. Thereafter, until a specific number of times of variable display of identification information is executed, the gaming state is related to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine that has a high probability of being controlled to a specific gaming state compared to a normal 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 is the right that the state of the special variable winning ball device provided in the gaming area of the gaming machine is advantageous for a player who is easy to win, and the right for becoming advantageous for a player. Or a condition where a condition for paying out a winning ball is easily established.

  In a pachinko machine, if a predetermined specific display result is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display of identification information that is started in the variable display means based on the winning of a game ball in the starting area, it is specified Controlled to gaming state. The derived display is to stop and display the identification information.

  In addition, when a special condition is established such that the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes a special special display result of the specific display results in the variable display means, the gaming state is subsequently compared with that in the normal state. Some are configured to control to a high probability state with a high probability of being controlled to a specific gaming state (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The gaming machine described in Patent Literature 1 has a function of displaying the reach state in the variable display of the identification information when the high probability state ends.

JP 2004-65650 A

  In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, since the reach state is controlled in the variable identification information display when the high probability state ends, it is possible to improve the player's expectation at the final stage by the effect. Although the reach state is displayed, the ratio of being controlled to the specific game state is not high. That is, the reliability of the reach at that time (expectation to be a big hit) is not high. As a result, the player's expectation for reach production does not improve, and such production does not necessarily improve the interest of the game.

  Accordingly, the present invention provides a gaming machine that can improve the player's expectation that the game will be controlled to a specific gaming state by a series of effects, and as a result, improve the interest of the game. Objective.

In the gaming machine according to the present invention, a player can play a predetermined game using a game medium (for example, a game ball), and the game medium has a start area (for example, a first start prize opening 13 or a second start). The variable display start condition after entering the winning opening 14) (for example, when the total reserved memory number is not 0, and the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed) Based on the fact that the big hit game is not executed), variable display means for starting the variable display of the identification information and deriving and displaying the display result (for example, the first special symbol display 8a, the second special symbol) Display device 8b, effect display device 9) and a specific game state (for example, jackpot game state) advantageous to the player when a predetermined display result (for example, jackpot symbol) is derived and displayed on the variable display means The probability that the gaming state is controlled to the specific gaming state compared to the normal state until the variable display of the identification information for a specific number of times (for example, 74 times) is executed after the specific gaming state ends. Is a gaming machine that controls to a high-probability state (for example, a probability variation state), and an extraction means (for example, a game) that extracts determination data (for example, a big hit determination random number) when the game medium enters the starting area In the control microcomputer 560, a portion for executing the processing of steps S218A and S218B) and a storage unit for storing the determination data extracted by the extraction unit as a storage unit with a predetermined upper limit as a limit (for example, a first storage unit) (Holding storage buffer and second holding storage buffer) and based on the determination data stored in the holding storage means based on the start condition being satisfied. Pre-determining means for determining whether or not to control to a specific gaming state (for example, in the gaming control microcomputer 560, the part that executes the process of step S61), and the high probability state stored in the holding storage means Data determination processing for determining whether or not there is determination data to be controlled to a specific gaming state among the determination data corresponding to variable display of identification information multiple times including variable display of identification information to be ended (E.g., the part that executes the processing of steps S6005 and S6007 in the production control microcomputer 100 based on the processing of steps S221 to S223 in the game control microcomputer 560) and the determination of the determination means An effect execution means for executing a series of effects over a plurality of variable displays based on the result (example: For example, the production control microcomputer 100 is provided with a portion for executing the processes of steps S6010 to S6012, S6041 to S6043, and S841 to S844.
With such a configuration, it is possible to increase the execution frequency of a series of effects during the period controlled to the high probability state and to prevent the reliability from decreasing. In addition, the player's expectation of being controlled to the specific game state can be further improved, and as a result, the interest of the game can be further improved.

A normal variable winning device that can change between a first state in which a game medium is likely to enter the start area and a second state in which the game medium is difficult to enter or does not enter the start area as compared to the first state (for example, a variable prize) In the advantageous state control means (for example, in the microcomputer 560 for game control), including the ball device 15) and controlling the advantageous state in which the frequency of controlling the normally variable prize-winning device to the first state is increased after the specific gaming state is completed. The determination unit may be configured to execute a data determination process (see step S6002 in FIG. 39) based on the end of the advantageous state.
With such a configuration, the data determination process is executed based on the fact that the advantageous state in which the game medium is likely to enter the starting area has been completed, so that the disappointment of the player due to the completion of the advantageous state can be reduced. .

The determination means determines whether or not there is determination data to be controlled to the specific gaming state in the determination data stored in the holding storage means when the prior determination means determines to control the specific gaming state. Special determination processing is also executed (see steps S6032 to S6034 in FIG. 40), and the determination means determines that there is determination data corresponding to being controlled to the specific gaming state by the special determination processing. Special effect executing means for executing the special effect (for example, in the effect control microcomputer 100, a part for executing the processes of steps S6036 to S6038 and S841 to S844) may be provided.
With such a configuration, it is possible to notify the player that the game state is controlled to the specific game state and that the game state is further controlled to the specific game state based on the determination data stored in the holding storage means. Therefore, the interest of the game can be further improved.

When the special effect is executed by the special effect execution means, the prohibit means for prohibiting the execution of the special effect by the special effect execution means until the variable display of the identification information is executed a specific number of times (for example, a microcomputer for effect control) 100, a portion for executing the processes of steps S6039, S8313, and S8314) may be provided.
With such a configuration, the execution frequency of the special effect does not increase, so that the player can be prevented from getting bored with the special effect.

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 showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 4 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows a jackpot determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the big hit classification determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the type of jackpot and the game state after a jackpot game. It is explanatory drawing which shows a fluctuation pattern table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of the determination result designation command at the time of winning. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of the determination result designation command at the time of winning. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a pending | holding buffer. It is a flowchart which shows a winning time determination process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a display result designation | designated command transmission 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 a big hit end process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a series of effects. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU for production control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of the determination result memory buffer at the time of winning. It is explanatory drawing which shows the random number which the microcomputer for production control uses. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. 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 process data. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the production | presentation performed according to the content of a process table. It is a flowchart which shows an effect determination process. It is a flowchart which shows an effect determination process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an effect determination table. It is a flowchart which shows a process during decoration design change. 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 a big hit display process.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described 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) that can be opened and closed with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate (not shown) to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts (games to be described later) attached to them. A structure including the board 6).

  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, there are provided a surplus ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3, and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the hitting ball. 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.

  An effect display device 9 composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) is provided near the center of the game area 7. In the effect display device 9, variable display (fluctuation) of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) synchronized with the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is performed. Therefore, the effect display device 9 corresponds to a variable display device that performs variable display of decorative symbols as identification information. The effect display device 9 is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. When the first special symbol display 8a is executing variable display of the first special symbol, the effect control microcomputer executes the effect display using the effect display device 9 along with the variable display. 2 When the variable display of the second special symbol is executed on the special symbol display device 8b, the effect display is executed using the effect display device 9 along with the variable display. It becomes easy to grasp.

  A first special symbol display (first variable display means) 8 a that variably displays a first special symbol as identification information is provided on the left side of the top of the effect display device 9 in the game board 6. In this embodiment, the first special symbol display 8a is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the first special symbol display 8a is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. A second special symbol display (second variable display means) 8b that variably displays a second special symbol as identification information is provided on the right side of the upper portion of the effect display device 9 in the game board 6. The second special symbol display 8b is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the second special symbol display 8b is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9.

  In this embodiment, the type of the first special symbol and the type of the second special symbol are the same (for example, both 0 to 9), but the types may be different. Further, the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b may be configured to variably display numbers (or two-digit symbols) of, for example, 00 to 99, for example.

  Hereinafter, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as a special symbol, and the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator 8b may be collectively referred to as a special symbol indicator.

  For the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the first start condition or the second start condition, which is the variable display execution condition, is satisfied (for example, the game ball has the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening) 14 (after the game ball may pass through the first start winning opening 13 or the second starting winning opening 14), the variable display start condition (for example, when the number of stored memories is not 0) The variable display time (variable time) is started based on the fact that the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed and the jackpot game is not executed. The display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed when the time elapses, and winning means that a game ball has entered a predetermined area such as a winning opening, and the display result is derived and displayed. You And is to be stopped and displayed symbols (the example of identification information) eventually.

  The effect display device 9 is for decoration (effect) during the variable display time of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and during the variable display time of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b. The display design (decorative design) is variably displayed. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display of the decorative symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b and the variable display of the decorative symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Synchronous means that the start time and end time of variable display are substantially the same (may be exactly the same) and the variable display period is substantially the same (may be exactly the same). Further, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a and when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the decorative display that reminds the jackpot on the effect display device 9 The combination of is stopped and displayed.

  A winning device having a first start winning port 13 is provided below the effect display device 9. The game ball won in the first start winning opening 13 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the first start opening switch 13a.

  A variable winning ball device 15 having a second starting winning port 14 through which a game ball can be won is provided below a winning device having a first starting winning port (first starting port) 13. The game ball that has won the second start winning opening (second start opening) 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the second start opening switch 14a. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the game ball can be awarded to the second starting winning port 14 (it is easier to start winning), which is advantageous for the player. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state, it is easier for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 than the first starting winning opening 13. In addition, in a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, the game ball does not win the second start winning opening 14. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the closed state, it may be configured that the winning is possible (that is, it is difficult for the gaming ball to win) although it is difficult to win a prize.

  Hereinafter, the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14 may be collectively referred to as a start winning opening or a starting opening.

  When the variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to be in the open state, the game ball heading for the variable winning ball device 15 is very likely to win the second start winning port 14. The first start winning opening 13 is provided directly under the effect display device 9, but the interval between the lower end of the effect display device 9 and the first start winning opening 13 is further reduced, or the first start winning opening is set. The nail arrangement around the first start winning opening 13 is made difficult to guide the game balls to the first starting winning opening 13 so that the winning rate of the second starting winning opening 14 is increased. It is also possible to make the direction higher than the winning rate of the first start winning opening 13.

  Below the first special symbol display 8a, the number of valid winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13, that is, the first reserved memory number (the reserved memory is also referred to as the start memory or the start prize memory) is displayed 4. There is provided a first special symbol storage memory indicator 18a composed of two indicators (for example, LEDs). The first special symbol storage memory indicator 18a increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 each time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  Below the second special symbol display 8b is a second special symbol hold comprising four indicators (for example, LEDs) for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the second start winning opening 14, that is, the second reserved memory number. A storage indicator 18b is provided. The second special symbol storage memory display 18b increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 every time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the second special symbol display 8b is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  In addition, in the lower part of the display screen of the effect display device 9, there is provided a total pending storage display unit 18c for displaying the total number (total number of total pending storage) that is the sum of the first reserved memory count and the second reserved memory count. ing. As described above, if the summation pending storage display section for displaying the total number is provided, it is possible to easily grasp the total number of execution conditions that are not satisfied with the variable display start condition.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a special variable winning ball device 20 is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 includes an opening / closing plate, and when the specific display result (big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, and the specific display result (big hit symbol) on the second special symbol display 8b. When the open / close plate is controlled to be open by the solenoid 21 in the specific game state (big hit game state) that occurs when the symbol is derived and displayed, the big winning opening serving as the winning area is opened. The game ball that has won the big winning opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  A normal symbol display 10 is provided below the effect display device 9. The normal symbol display 10 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, “◯” and “x”) called normal symbols.

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting left and right lamps (designs can be visually recognized when lit). For example, if the lower lamp is lit at the end of variable display, it is a hit. . When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In other words, the state of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is a state that is advantageous from a disadvantageous state for the player when the normal symbol is a stop symbol (a state in which a game ball can be awarded at the second start winning port 14). To change. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having four indicators (for example, LEDs) for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a game ball passing through the gate 32, that is, every time a game ball is detected by the gate switch 32a, the normal symbol storage memory display 41 increases the number of indicators that are turned on by one. Then, each time the variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of indicators that are lit is reduced by one. Further, in the probability variation state where the probability of being determined to be a big hit as compared to the normal state is high, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 The opening time becomes longer and the number of opening times is increased. That is, the game ball is controlled to be in a high base state that is controlled so as to make it easier for the game ball to start and win (that is, the variable display execution conditions in the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b and the effect display device 9 are easily established). Transition. Further, in this embodiment, even in the short time state (the game state in which the special symbol variable display time is shortened), the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 becomes long and the number of times of opening is increased.

  Instead of extending the time during which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state (also referred to as the open extended state), the normal symbol display unit 10 shifts to a normal symbol probability changing state in which the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display unit 10 will be a hit symbol is increased. Depending on the situation, the high base state may be entered. When the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In this case, by performing the transition control to the normal symbol probability changing state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the frequency at which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is increased. Therefore, if the normal symbol probability changing state is entered, the opening time and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased, and a state where it is easy to start a winning (high base state) is achieved. That is, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 can be increased when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol or the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probabilistic symbol. It changes to an advantageous state (a state where it is easy to win a start). It should be noted that increasing the number of times of opening is a concept including changing from a closed state to an open state.

  Moreover, you may transfer to a high base state by shifting to the normal symbol time short state where the fluctuation time (variable display period) of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display 10 is shortened. In the normal symbol short-time state, the variation time of the normal symbol is shortened, so that the frequency of starting the variation of the normal symbol increases, and as a result, the frequency of hitting the normal symbol increases. Therefore, when the frequency that the normal symbol is won increases, the frequency that the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is increased, and the start winning state is easily set (high base state).

  In addition, the transition time of special symbols and decorative symbols will be shortened by shifting to the short time state when the variation time (variable display period) of special symbols and decorative symbols is shortened. (In other words, the digestion of the stored memory becomes faster), and as a result, it is easier to start a winning and the possibility of playing a big hit game is increased.

  Furthermore, by making transitions to all the states shown above (open extended state, normal symbol probability change state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state), it will be easier to win a start (shift to a high base state). May be. In addition, it is easier to win a start (high base) by shifting to any one of the above states (open extended state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state). Transition to a state).

  On the left and right sides of the game area 7 of the game board 6, there are provided decorative LEDs 25 that are displayed blinking during the game, and at the lower part there is an outlet 26 for taking in a hit ball that has not won. In addition, two speakers 27R and 27L that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. A top frame LED 28a, a left frame LED 28b, and a right frame LED 28c provided on the front frame are provided on the outer periphery upper portion, the outer periphery left portion, and the outer periphery right portion of the game area 7. Also, a prize ball LED 51 that is turned on when there is a remaining number of prize balls is provided in the vicinity of the left frame LED 28b, and a ball cut LED 52 that is turned on when the supply ball is cut is provided in the vicinity of the right frame LED 28c. . The top frame LED 28a, the left frame LED 28b, the right frame LED 28c, and the decoration LED 25 are examples of effects light emitters provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1. In addition to the above-described various LEDs for production (decoration), LEDs and lamps for production are installed.

  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. When the game ball enters the first start winning opening 13 and is detected by the first start opening switch 13a, if the variable display of the first special symbol can be started (for example, the variable display of the special symbol ends, 1), the first special symbol display 8a starts variable display (variation) of the first special symbol, and the effect display device 9 starts variable display of decorative symbols. That is, the variable display of the first special symbol and the decorative symbol corresponds to winning in the first start winning opening 13. If the variable display of the first special symbol cannot be started, the first reserved memory number is increased by 1 on the condition that the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  When the game ball enters the second start winning opening 14 and is detected by the second start opening switch 14a, if the variable display of the second special symbol can be started (for example, the special symbol variable display ends, 2), the second special symbol display unit 8b starts variable display (variation) of the second special symbol, and the effect display device 9 starts variable display of the decorative symbol. That is, the variable display of the second special symbol and the decorative symbol corresponds to winning in the second start winning opening 14. If the variable display of the second special symbol cannot be started, the second reserved memory number is increased by 1 on condition that the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  Further, an operation button 150 as an operation means that can be operated by the player is provided on a member constituting the hit ball supply tray 3. The operation button 150 is provided with a pressing operation unit that can be pressed by the player. The operation button 150 may be provided with not only a pressing operation unit but also a rotation operation unit that can be rotated by a player. In that case, the player can perform a predetermined selection (for example, selection of effect) by rotating the rotation operation unit.

  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 incorporate at least the CPU 56 and the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. 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 (random numbers generated by the hardware circuit).

  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.

  The random number circuit 503 is a hardware circuit that is used to generate a random number for determination to determine whether or not to win a jackpot based on a display result of variable symbol special display. The random number circuit 503 updates numerical data in accordance with a set update rule within a numerical range in which an initial value (for example, 0) and an upper limit value (for example, 65535) are set, and starts at a random timing Based on the fact that the winning time is the reading (extraction) of the numerical data, it has a random number generation function in which the numerical data to be read becomes a random value.

  The random number circuit 503 includes a numeric data update range selection setting function (initial value selection setting function and upper limit value selection setting function), numeric data update rule selection setting function, and numeric data update rule selection. It has various functions such as a switching function. With such a function, the randomness of the generated random numbers can be improved.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 has a function of setting an initial value of numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. For example, a predetermined calculation is performed using the ID number of the game control microcomputer 560 stored in a predetermined storage area such as the ROM 54 (an ID number assigned with a different value for each product of the game control microcomputer 560). The numerical data obtained by the execution is set as the initial value of the numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. By performing such processing, the randomness of the random number generated by the random number circuit 503 can be further improved.

  The game control microcomputer 560 reads numerical data as random R from the random number circuit 503 when a start winning to the first start port switch 13a or the second start port switch 14a occurs, and performs a specific display based on the random R. It is determined whether or not to make a jackpot display result as a result, that is, whether or not to make a jackpot. When it is determined that the game is a big hit, the gaming state is shifted to a big hit gaming state as a specific gaming state advantageous to the player.

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power supply created on the power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). In particular, at least data corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means (the value of the special symbol process flag or the total pending storage number counter) and the data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls are stored in the backup RAM. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like occurs. Further, data corresponding to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are defined as data indicating the progress state of the game. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up.

  A power-off signal indicating that the power supply voltage from the power supply board has dropped below a predetermined value is input to the input port of the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the power supply board monitors the voltage value of a predetermined voltage (for example, DC30V or DC5V) used in the gaming machine, and when the voltage value decreases to a predetermined value (the power supply voltage is reduced). A power supply monitoring circuit that outputs a power-off signal indicating that). A clear signal (not shown) indicating that the clear switch for instructing to clear the contents of the RAM is operated is input to the input port of the game control microcomputer 560.

  Further, an input driver circuit 58 for supplying detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a and the count switch 23 to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. The main board also includes an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 that forms a big winning opening in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560. 31. Further, an information output circuit (not shown) for outputting 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 instructs the effect contents from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. An effect control command is received, and display control with the effect display device 9 that variably displays decorative symbols is performed.

  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 for storing information relating to effects such as decorative symbol process flags. The RAM may be externally attached. In this embodiment, the RAM in the production control microcomputer 100 is not backed up. 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. Furthermore, since the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 that is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 toward the inside of the main board 31 is restricted. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (the game control microcomputer 560 side). The output port 571 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit that is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 via the input port 107 receives an operation signal (press signal) according to the pressing operation to the operation button 150 by the player and an operation signal (rotation signal indicating the rotation amount) according to the rotation operation. Input from the operation button 150.

  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 supplies a current to a light emitter provided on the frame side such as the frame LED 28 based on a signal for driving the LED. Further, a current is supplied to the decoration LED 25 provided on the game board 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).

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by 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 (clear signal) of a 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 normal initialization processing (steps S10 to S15).

  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, probability variation flag, time reduction 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 prize 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 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 random number for normal symbol determination) to 0, but an arbitrary value or a predetermined value It may be initialized to. In addition, 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 random number for normal symbol determination) 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 in steps S11 and S12, for example, a normal symbol per-determining random number counter, a special symbol buffer, a total prize ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, and other flags for selectively performing processing according to the control state are initialized. Value is set.

  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.

  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 the type of the variation pattern or a random number for determining the variation pattern, and the display random number update process is for generating the display random number. This is a process for updating the count value of the counter. 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). It is a random number to determine. 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.

  In this embodiment, the reach effect is executed using a decorative symbol variably displayed on the effect display device 9. Further, when the display result of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the reach effect is always executed. When the display result of the special symbol is not a jackpot symbol, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether or not to execute the reach effect by lottery using a random number. However, it is the production control microcomputer 100 that actually executes the reach production control.

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process of steps S20 to S34 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether or not an on-state is turned on) is executed (step S20). The power-off signal is output, for example, when a power supply monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a decrease 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 switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, and the count switch 23 are input via the input driver circuit 58, and their state is determined (switch processing: step S21). ).

  Next, the CPU 56 has a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b, a normal symbol display 10, a first special symbol hold storage display 18a, a second special symbol hold storage display 18b, a normal symbol. A display control process for controlling the display of the on-hold storage display 41 is executed (step S22). About the 1st special symbol display 8a, the 2nd special symbol display 8b, and the normal symbol display 10, a drive signal is output with respect to each display according to the content of the output buffer set by step S32, S33. Execute control.

  Also, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each random number for determination such as a random number for determination per ordinary symbol used for game control is performed (determination random number update process: step S23). 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 S24 and S25).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S26). In the special symbol process, corresponding processing is executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the first special symbol indicator 8a, the second special symbol indicator 8b, and the special winning award 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 S27). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes a corresponding process according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect control command control process: step S28).

  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 S29).

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a prize ball process for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, and the count switch 23 (step S30). Specifically, the payout control micro mounted on the payout control board 37 in response to the winning detection based on any one of the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a and the count switch 23 being turned on. A payout control command (prize ball number signal) indicating the number of prize balls is output to the computer. 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 S31: output process).

  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 S32).

  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 the output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S33). For example, when the start flag related to the variation of the normal symbol is set, the CPU 56 switches the display state (“◯” and “×”) for the variation rate of the normal symbol every 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set. With such a speed, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer (for example, 1 indicating “◯” and 0 indicating “x”) is switched every 0.2 seconds. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a normal signal on the normal symbol display 10 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 in accordance with the display control data set in the output buffer.

  Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S34), 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 of steps S21 to S33 (excluding step S29) 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.

  When the shifted symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9, the decorative symbol variable display state starts after the variable symbol variable display is started. There is a case where a predetermined combination of decorative symbols that do not reach reach is stopped and displayed without reaching the reach state. Such a decorative display variable display mode is referred to as a “non-reach” (also referred to as “normal shift”) variable display mode when the variable display result is an out-of-order design.

  When the shifted symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9, the decorative symbol variable display state starts after the variable symbol variable display is started. After reaching the reach state, the reach effect is executed, and a predetermined combination of decorative symbols that does not eventually become a big hit symbol may be stopped and displayed. Such a variable display result of the decorative design is referred to as a variable display mode of “reach” (also referred to as “reach out”) when the variable display result is “out of”.

  In this embodiment, when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the reach effect is executed after the variable display state of the decorative symbol becomes the reach state. Finally, the decorative symbols are all stopped and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas of the effect display device 9.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1 (MR1): Determines the type of jackpot (15R jackpot, sudden probability variation jackpot) (for jackpot type determination)
(2) Random 2 (MR2): A variation pattern (variation time) is determined (for variation pattern determination)
(3) Random 4 (MR3): Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on the normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(4) Random 5 (MR3): Determine the initial value of random 3 (for determining the random 4 initial value)

  In step S23 in the game control process shown in FIG. 5, the game control microcomputer 560 uses a counter for generating the jackpot type determination random number (1) and the random number for determination per ordinary symbol (3). Count up (add 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers (random 2) or initial value random numbers (random 4). In addition, in order to improve a game effect, you may use random numbers other than said random number. In this embodiment, a random number generated by hardware incorporated in the game control microcomputer 560 (or hardware external to the game control microcomputer 560) is used as the jackpot determination random number.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54 and is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The jackpot determination table includes a normal-time jackpot determination table used in a normal state (a gaming state that is not a probability change state) and a probability change jackpot determination table used in a probability change state. Each numerical value described in the left column of FIG. 7 is set in the normal jackpot determination table, and each numerical value described in the right column of FIG. 7 is set in the probability variation big hit determination table. The numerical value described in FIG. 7 is a jackpot determination value.

  The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and uses the extracted value as the value of the jackpot determination random number (random R). If it matches the big hit determination value, the special symbol is decided to be a big hit (15R big hit described later, suddenly probable big hit). Note that the “probability” shown in FIG. 7 indicates the probability (ratio) of a big hit. Further, deciding whether or not to win a jackpot means deciding whether or not to shift to the jackpot gaming state. It also means deciding whether or not to make a jackpot symbol.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot type determination table stored in the ROM 54. In the jackpot type determination table shown in FIG. 8, when it is determined that the variable display result is a jackpot symbol, the jackpot type is set to “15R jackpot” based on the random number (random 1) for determining the jackpot type. And a table that is referred to in order to determine one of “suddenly probable big hits”.

  The 15R jackpot is a jackpot that allows a large number of times (for example, 15 times) the number of times that the big prize opening is opened in the jackpot gaming state, and changes the gaming state to the probable state when the jackpot gaming state ends. Suddenly probable big hits are big hits in the big hit gaming state where the number of opening of the big prize opening is small and the opening time of the big winning opening is very short (for example, the opening time is 0.1 seconds and the number of times of opening is twice). It is a big hit that shifts the gaming state after the game to the probability changing state (that is, it makes it appear to the player as if it has suddenly changed to the certainty state). Hereinafter, the sudden probability change big hit may be referred to as a sudden big hit or two rounds (2R) big hit.

  Further, in this embodiment, as an example, the stop symbol of the special symbol for suddenly probable big hit is “3”, and when the big hit is 15R, the stop symbol of the special symbol is “7”. That is, the jackpot type and the special symbol stop symbol type correspond to each other.

  FIG. 8 (A) shows a case where the jackpot type is determined by using the stored memory based on the fact that the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13 (that is, when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed). A big hit type determination table (for the first special symbol) is shown. FIG. 8B shows a case in which the jackpot type is determined using the holding memory based on the fact that the game ball has won the second start winning opening 14 (that is, when the second special symbol is displayed in a variable manner). A big hit type determination table (for the second special symbol) is shown.

  In the high base state, there are more opportunities for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 than the game ball wins the first start winning opening 13, so the second special symbol shown in FIG. There are many occasions where the big hit type determination table for use is used. Further, in the low base state, there is no opportunity for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14, so the jackpot type determination table for the first special symbol shown in FIG. 8A is used.

  Note that only when using the jackpot type determination table for the first special symbol shown in FIG. 8 (A), it may be assigned to “suddenly probable big hit”, and the jackpot for the second special symbol shown in FIG. 8 (B). When the type determination table is used, it is not distributed to “suddenly probable big hit” (that is, “suddenly probable big hit” may be determined only when the first special symbol variation display is performed). Even when the variation display of the second special symbol is performed, it may be distributed to “suddenly probable big hit”.

  In this embodiment, the jackpot type is determined using a predetermined random number, but the stop pattern of the special symbol is determined using the predetermined random number, and the jackpot type is determined according to the determined special symbol type. It may be determined.

  In addition, when a special symbol stop symbol is determined using a predetermined random number, and a jackpot type is determined according to the determined special symbol type, one symbol or a plurality of symbols may be determined. Depending on the game state at that time, there may be a case where the game is shifted to the short time state after the end of the big hit game, or there is a case where it is not possible to shift to the time reduction state.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing the type of jackpot and the gaming state after the jackpot game. As shown in FIG. 9, after the big hit game based on the sudden probability change big hit, the game state is controlled to the probability change state and the high base state. After the big hit game based on the 15R big hit, the gaming state is controlled to the probability changing state and the high base state. Even after the big hit game based on the 15R big hit, the gaming state is controlled to the probability changing state and the high base state. After the big hit game based on the 15R big hit, the gaming state is controlled to the probability changing state and the high base state.

  Note that the probability variation state (high probability state) is maintained until a special symbol variable display 74 (variable display with the display result as an off symbol) is executed after the big hit game. Further, the high base state is maintained until a special symbol variable display (variable display using the display result as a symbol after the display) is executed 70 times after the big hit game.

  Further, in this embodiment, the number of rounds of jackpot game executed when a sudden probability change jackpot occurs suddenly is 2. However, if the opening time of each round is extremely short compared to the case of 15R jackpot, it is more than two rounds. May be a large number of rounds. For example, it may be the same as the number of rounds of jackpot game executed when 15R jackpot occurs.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the big hit game is finished when the sudden probability change big hit occurs, the high base state is controlled, but the low base state may be controlled. In that case, you may comprise so that a small hit game can be performed. The small hit game is a game in which the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times (for example, two times) for a short time (for example, one second), but the probability state and the base state are not changed after the small hit game.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a variation pattern table stored in the ROM 54. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, there are six variation pattern tables, Tables A to F, as the variation pattern tables. Each variation pattern table stores determination values corresponding to the variation patterns. Note that FIG. 10 shows the number of determination values, not the determination values themselves.

  Table A is a variation pattern table used when the state is a high probability state and a low base state. Table B is a variation pattern table used when the display result of the special symbol is a big hit symbol when the state is a high probability state (probability variation state) and a high base state. The table C is a variation pattern table used when the display result of the special symbol is changed to a symbol in the high probability state and the high base state. The table D is a variation pattern table used when the display result of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol in the low probability state (normal state). The table E is a variation pattern table used when the display result of the special symbol is changed to a symbol in the low probability state.

  The table F is a variation pattern table used when 2R big hit is determined.

  If both the conditions for using the tables A to E and the condition for using the table F are satisfied, the use of the table F is given priority.

  In FIG. 10, “no reach” is a change mode (effect mode) in which the reach effect is not executed during the change of the decorative symbol. “Reach α” is a variation mode in which reach production of reach α is executed during the variation of the decorative design, and “reach β” is a reach β that is different from the reach α during the variation of the decorative design. This is a variation mode in which the reach effect is executed. “Special A” is a variation mode including a special effect such as a design slip effect. The “special B” is a special effect such as a design slip effect and a variation mode including an effect different from the special A.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIG. 11, 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 response to variable display of a special symbol. (Corresponding to the variation pattern XX, respectively). That is, when a unique number is assigned to each of the usable variation patterns shown in FIG. 10, there is a variation pattern command corresponding to each variation pattern specified by the number. “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number. The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the start of variation. Therefore, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the command 80XX (H), the effect display device 9 controls the effect display device 9 to start variable display of decorative symbols.

  Further, in this embodiment, if the variation pattern is the same, a common variation pattern command is used for the case where the big hit and the case where the big pattern is lost. However, the variation pattern command that specifies the variation pattern that is used when the variation pattern command that is used in the case of the big hit is different from the variation pattern command that is used when the variation pattern command is different. That is, the variation pattern command used in the case of a big hit may not be used in the case of a loss.

  In that case, for example, in the case of big hit, the fluctuation pattern is determined using the fluctuation pattern table for big hit, and in the case of loss, the fluctuation pattern is determined using the fluctuation pattern table for deviation. For example, a variation pattern command indicating the variation pattern of reach α based on the variation pattern table for jackpots and a variation pattern command indicating the variation pattern of reach α based on the variation pattern table for loss are used as different commands. In addition, the CPU 56 determines the variation pattern using the same variation pattern table for the case where the big hit and the case where the big hit is lost. For example, when the decision is made to use the variation pattern of the reach α, The variation pattern command may be used separately for the case where it is different from the case where it is different.

  Commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H) are effect control commands (display result designation commands) indicating whether or not to make a big hit and the type of big hit. The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the display result of the decorative symbols in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H), so the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H) are also referred to as display result specifying commands. .

  Command 8D01 (H) is an effect control command (first symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started. Command 8D02 (H) is an effect control command (second symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the second special symbol is started. The first symbol variation designation command and the second symbol variation designation command may be collectively referred to as a special symbol specifying command (or symbol variation designation command). Note that information indicating whether to start variable display of the first special symbol or variable display of the second special symbol may be included in the variation pattern command.

  Command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the variable display (fluctuation) of the decorative symbols is terminated and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed.

  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 gaming control microcomputer 560 transmits a power failure recovery designation command if data is stored in the backup RAM, and if not, initialization designation is performed. Send a command.

  Command 95XX (H) is an effect control command (first winning determination result specifying command) indicating the content of the first winning determination result (the result of the determination process executed when the first start winning is generated). . Command 96XX (H) is an effect control command (second winning determination result designation command) indicating the content of the second winning determination result (the result of the determination process executed when the second start winning is generated). . Hereinafter, the first winning determination result specifying command and the second winning determination result specifying command may be collectively referred to as a winning determination result specifying command.

  In this embodiment, in the winning determination process (see FIG. 17), which will be described later, the game control microcomputer 560 determines which determination value is the value of the big hit determination random number when a start winning occurs. Then, data indicating the determination result is set in the EXT data of the determination result designation command at the time of winning, and control to transmit to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed.

  Command 9F00 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating a customer waiting demonstration.

  Commands A001 and A003 (H) are effect control commands for displaying a fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of a big hit game (hereinafter also referred to as a big hit start designation command or a fanfare designation command). The effect control commands for designating the start of a big hit game include a big hit start designation command indicating the start of a big hit game based on 15 big hits (15R big hit game) and a sudden big hit start designation command.

  The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (special command during opening of a big winning opening) indicating a display during the opening of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big winning opening) indicating the closing of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX.

  The command A301 (H) is an effect control command (a jackpot end designation command) for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, designating the end of the jackpot game and designating that it was a 15R jackpot. The command A303 (H) is an effect control command (an abrupt big hit end designation command) that designates the end of a game with a sudden probability change big hit.

  Command B001 (H) is an effect control command (high base state designation command) for designating that the gaming state is the high base state. Command B002 (H) is an effect control command (low base state designation command) that designates that the gaming state is in the low base state. The high base state designation command and the low base state designation command may be collectively referred to as a base state designation command.

  The command B101 (H) is an effect control command (high probability state designation command) that designates that the gaming state is a certain change state. Command B102 (H) is an effect control command (low probability state designation command) that designates the normal state. The high probability state designation command and the low probability state designation command may be collectively referred to as a probability state designation command.

  Command C000 (H) is an effect control command (first reserved memory number addition designation command) that specifies that the first reserved memory number has increased by one. Command C100 (H) is an effect control command (second reserved memory number addition designation command) that specifies that the second reserved memory number has increased by one.

  Command C200 (H) is an effect control command (first reserved memory number subtraction designation command) that specifies that the first reserved memory number has decreased by one. Command C300 (H) is an effect control command (second reserved memory number subtraction designation command) that specifies that the second reserved memory number has decreased by one.

  In this embodiment, an effect control command indicating that the reserved memory number has increased or decreased is transmitted for the total reserved memory number, but an effect control command for designating the reserved memory number itself is transmitted. Also good.

  FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of the contents of the winning determination result designation command. FIG. 12 shows an example of the contents of the first winning determination result specifying command, and FIG. 13 shows an example of the contents of the second winning determination result specifying command. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, any display result of the special symbol is displayed in the determination result when the first winning prize opening 13 or the second starting prize opening 14 is generated. Data indicating whether the result is obtained is set in the EXT data.

  In the example shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the first winning determination result specifying command and the second winning determination result specifying command are separately defined, but they may be made common. For example, the determination result when the start winning to the first start winning opening 13 occurs is “out” and the determination result when the start winning to the second start winning opening 14 occurs is “out”. In some cases, the same winning determination result specifying command may be transmitted. In that case, the production control microcomputer 100 is transmitted immediately after the winning determination result designation command (see FIGS. 15 and 17). The first reserved memory number addition designation command and the second reserved memory number addition designation command. The start result winning opening is identified by the above.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) 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. Then, the display state of the effect display device 9 is changed according to the contents shown in FIGS. 11 to 13, the display state of the lamp is changed, or the sound number data is output to the audio output board 70. To do.

  For example, the game control microcomputer 560 designates a decorative pattern variation pattern each time a start winning is made and variable display of the special symbol is started on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b. The variation pattern command and the display result designation command (display result specifying command capable of specifying the display result) are transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100.

  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.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process (step S26) program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. In the special symbol process, a process for controlling the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the special winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process, the CPU 56 executes a start port switch passing process (step S321). Further, any one of steps S300 to S307 is performed.

  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 game control microcomputer 560 is in a state where the variable symbol special display can be started, the game control microcomputer 560 confirms the number of numerical data stored in the reserved storage buffer (total number of reserved storage). The stored number of numerical data stored in the hold storage buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the combined hold storage number counter. If the count value of the total pending storage number counter is not 0, it is determined whether or not the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is a big hit. In case of big hit, set big hit flag. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) according to step S301. The jackpot flag is reset when the jackpot game ends.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S301): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. Also, the variation pattern is determined, and the variation time in the variation pattern (variable display time: the time from the start of variable display until the display result is derived and displayed (stop display)) Decide to do. Also, a variable time timer for measuring the special symbol variable time is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) corresponding to step S302.

  Display result designation command transmission process (step S302): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. Control for transmitting a display result designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (3 in this example) corresponding to step S303.

  Special symbol changing process (step S303): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in step S301 times out, that is, the variation time timer value becomes 0), the design control microcomputer 100 determines the symbol. Control to transmit the specified command is performed, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (4 in this example) corresponding to step S304. The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the decorative symbols when receiving the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560.

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. After the display result of the special symbol is derived and displayed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S305 (5 in this example) when the big hit flag is set.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S305): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S306 (6 in this example). The pre-opening process for the big winning opening is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the pre-opening process for the big winning opening is also a process for starting the big hit game.

  Large winning opening opening process (step S306): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. A control for transmitting an effect control command for round display during the big hit gaming state to the effect control microcomputer 100, a process for confirming the completion of the closing condition of the big prize opening, and the like are performed. If the closing condition for the special prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S305 (5 in this example). 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, a process for setting a flag indicating a gaming state (for example, a probability change flag or a time reduction flag) is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process in step S321. In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first start port switch 13a is turned on (step S210A). If the first start port switch 13a is on, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the first reserved memory number counter for counting the first reserved memory number is 4 which is the upper limit value (step). S211A). If the value of the first reserved memory number counter is 4, the process proceeds to step S210B.

  If the value of the first reserved memory number counter is not 4, the CPU 56 increases the value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S212A) and increases the value of the total reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S213A). Further, the CPU 56 sets “first” in the area corresponding to the value of the total reserved memory number counter in the reserved specific area for storing the winning order to the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14. The indicated data is set (step S214A).

  In this embodiment, when the first start opening switch 13a is turned on (that is, when a game ball starts and wins the first start winning opening 13), data indicating “first” is stored in the reserved specific area. When the second start port switch 14a is turned on (that is, when a game ball starts and wins the second start winning port 14), data indicating “second” is set in the reserved specific area. To do. For example, the CPU 56 sets 01 (H) as data indicating “first” when the first start port switch 13a is turned on in the hold specific area, and the second start port switch 14a is turned on. In this case, 02 (H) is set as data indicating “second”. When there is no hold storage, 00 (H) is set in the hold specific area.

  FIG. 16A is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration example of the reserved specific area. As shown in FIG. 16A, an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the total reserved memory number counter is secured in the reserved specific area, and the first start winning opening 13 or the second start Data indicating “first” or “second” is set in order of winning based on winning in the winning opening 14. Accordingly, in the reserved specific area, the winning order to the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 is stored. The reserved specific area is formed in the RAM 55. Being formed in the RAM means an area in the RAM. FIG. 16A shows an example in which the value of the total pending storage number counter is 5. The first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55.

  Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in the storage area in the first reserved storage buffer (step S215A). In the process of step S215A, a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) and a variation pattern determination random number (random 2) that are software random numbers are extracted, Stored in the save area. Note that the variation pattern determination random number (random 2) is not extracted in the first start port switch passing process (at the time of start winning) and stored in the storage area in advance, but is extracted at the start of variation of the first special symbol. You may do it. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may directly extract a value from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern determination random number (random 2) in the variation pattern setting process.

  FIG. 16B is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of an area (holding storage buffer) for storing random numbers and the like corresponding to holding storage. As shown in FIG. 16B, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value of the first reserved storage number (4 in this example) is secured in the first reserved storage buffer. In addition, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value of the second reserved storage number (4 in this example) is secured in the second reserved storage buffer. The first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55. Further, a counter for generating a software random number and a reserved storage number counter are also formed in the RAM 55.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a winning determination process (step S218A). Next, the CPU 56 increases the number of lighting of the first special symbol reservation storage display 18a by 1 (step S219A). Moreover, control which transmits the 1st pending | holding memory number addition designation | designated command is performed (step S220A).

  When transmitting an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the CPU 56 sets the 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).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second start port switch 14a is turned on (step S210B). If the second start port switch 14a is on, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the second reserved memory number counter for counting the second reserved memory number is 4 which is the upper limit value (step). S211B). If the value of the second reserved memory number counter is 4, the process is terminated.

  If the value of the second reserved memory number counter is not 4, the CPU 56 increases the value of the second reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S212B) and increases the value of the total reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S213B). Further, the CPU 56 sets data indicating “second” in an area corresponding to the value of the total reserved storage number counter in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area) (step S214B).

  In addition, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in a storage area in the second reserved storage buffer (step S215B). As shown in FIG. 16B, the same number of storage areas as the upper limit value of the second reserved storage number are secured in the second reserved storage buffer. In the process of step S215B, the CPU 56 stores a value in a storage area corresponding to the value of the second reserved storage number counter in the second reserved storage buffer.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a winning determination process (step S218B). Further, the number of lighting of the second special symbol hold storage display 18b is increased by 1 (step S219B). Further, control is performed to transmit the second reserved memory number addition designation command (step S220B).

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the winning determination process in steps S218A and S218B.

  In this embodiment, at the timing when the variation of the special symbol and the decorative symbol is started, whether or not to make a big hit in the special symbol normal processing and the type of big hit are determined. Even at the timing of starting winning at the second starting winning opening 14, before the display of fluctuation based on the starting winning is started, it is determined whether or not it is a big hit by executing the winning determination process shown in FIG. To do. That is, it is determined whether or not a big hit is made in advance before the decorative symbol variation display is executed, and the effect control microcomputer 100 notifies the big hit based on the determination result. Perform a series of effects.

  In the winning determination process, the CPU 56 first compares the jackpot determination random number (random R) extracted in the processes of steps S215A and S215B with the normal jackpot determination value shown in the left column of FIG. It is confirmed whether or not to perform (step S221). When it is confirmed in the process of step S221 that the random number for random determination (random R) does not match the normal determination value, the CPU 56 sets a probability change flag indicating that the gaming state is a probability change state. It is confirmed whether or not (step S222). When the probability variation flag is set, the jackpot determination random number (random R) extracted in the processing of steps S215A and S215B is compared with the jackpot determination value at the time of probability variation shown in the right column of FIG. It is confirmed whether or not to perform (step S223).

  When the big hit determination random number (random R) matches one of the big hit determination values, the CPU 56 extracts the big hit type determination random number (random 1) extracted in the processing of steps S215A and S2154B and stored in the reserved storage buffer. The jackpot type is determined based on the determination (step S224). In step S225, when there is a start winning at the first start winning opening 13 (when the process of step S218A is executed in the start opening switch passing process shown in FIG. 15), the CPU 56 selects FIG. ) Is used to determine whether the big hit type is “2R big hit” (suddenly probable big hit) or “15R big hit”. When there is a start winning at the second start winning opening 14 (when the process of step S218B is executed in the start opening switch passing process shown in FIG. 15), the jackpot type shown in FIG. It is determined whether or not the big hit type is “15R big hit” using the determination table (for the second special symbol). Then, the process proceeds to step S225. However, in this embodiment, if it is determined that the big win is based on the second start winning, it will always be a 15R big win (see FIG. 8B). When there is a start winning for the mouth 14, it is not necessary to determine whether or not the “15R big hit” will be reached.

  If the jackpot determination random number (random R) does not match the jackpot determination value at the time of probability change, the process proceeds to step S225.

  In step S225, the CPU 56 performs a process of setting the EXT data corresponding to the determination results in steps S223 and S224 to the winning determination result designation command (step S226). Further, control is performed to transmit a winning determination result designation command in which EXT data is set to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S227). If it is determined in steps S221 and S223 that none of the jackpot determination values match, the CPU 56 sets EXT data corresponding to the loss in the winning determination result designation command.

  18 and 19 are flowcharts showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 confirms the value of the total pending storage number (step S51). Specifically, the count value of the total pending storage number counter is confirmed. If the total pending storage number is 0, the process is terminated.

  If the total pending storage number is not 0, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first data among the data set in the pending specific area (see FIG. 16A) is data indicating “first”. (Step S52). If it is data indicating “first”, a special symbol pointer (a flag indicating whether special symbol process processing is being performed for the first special symbol or special symbol process processing is being performed for the second special symbol) is set to “first 1 "is set (step S53). If it is not data indicating “first”, that is, if it is data indicating “second”, data indicating “second” is set in the special symbol pointer (step S54).

  Next, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved storage number = 1 indicated by the special symbol pointer in the RAM 55 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S55). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 determines each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = 1 in the first reserved memory buffer. Is stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 reads each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = 1 in the second reserved memory buffer. Store in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55.

  Then, the CPU 56 decrements the count value of the reserved storage number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer, and shifts the contents of each storage area (step S56). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 decrements the count value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 and stores each storage area in the first reserved memory buffer. Shift content. When the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the count value of the second reserved memory number counter is decremented by 1, and the contents of each storage area in the second reserved memory buffer are shifted.

  That is, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 stores the first reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the first reserved memory buffer of the RAM 55. Each stored random number value is stored in a storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = n−1. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, each stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the second reserved memory buffer of the RAM 55. The random value is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n−1.

  Therefore, the order in which each random value stored in each storage area corresponding to each first reserved memory number (or each second reserved memory number) is extracted is always the first reserved memory number (or (Second reserved storage number) = 1, 2, 3, 4 in order.

  Then, the CPU 56 decreases the value of the total pending storage number by one. That is, 1 is subtracted from the count value of the total pending storage number counter (step S57).

  In the special symbol normal process, first, data indicating “first” indicating that the process is executed for the first start winning opening 13, that is, “first” indicating that the process is executed for the first special symbol. ”Or“ second ”indicating that the process is performed on the second special symbol, that is,“ second ”indicating that the process is performed on the second start winning opening 14. Data is set in the special symbol pointer. In the subsequent processing in the special symbol process, processing corresponding to the data set in the special symbol pointer is executed. Therefore, the process of steps S300 to S307 can be shared between the case where the first special symbol is the target and the case where the second special symbol is the target.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads a random R (a jackpot determining random number) from the random number buffer area and determines whether or not to make a jackpot. That is, it is determined whether or not the value of the jackpot determination random number matches one of the jackpot determination values (see FIG. 7) set in the jackpot determination table (step S61). The CPU 56 reads out the big hit determination random number extracted in step S215A of the first start port switch passing process or step S215B of the second start port switch passing process and stored in advance in the first hold memory buffer or the second hold memory buffer. The jackpot is determined (a process of comparing the jackpot determination random number value with the jackpot determination value).

  When the gaming state is a probabilistic change state (high probability state), the probability that a big hit will be higher than when the gaming state is a non-probability changing state (normal game state and short-time state). Specifically, the probability change jackpot determination table (a table in which the numerical values on the right side of FIG. 7 in the ROM 54 are set) in which a large number of jackpot determination values are set in advance and the number of jackpot determination values are the probability change jackpot determination table. And a normal big hit determination table (a table in which the numerical values on the left side of FIG. 7 in the ROM 54 are set) are set. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the gaming state is a probability variation state. If the gaming state is a probability variation state, the jackpot determination process is performed using the probability variation jackpot determination table, and the gaming state is normal. When in the gaming state or the short-time state, the big hit determination process is performed using the normal big hit determination table. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches one of the big hit determination values shown in FIG. 7, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a big hit.

  Note that whether or not the current gaming state is the probability variation state is determined by whether or not the probability variation flag is set. The probability variation flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, and is reset when the probability variation state is terminated. Specifically, it is determined to be a 15R jackpot or a sudden probability change jackpot, set in the process of ending the jackpot game, and when the jackpot is determined, the special symbol variation display is terminated and the stop symbol is stopped and displayed. Reset at timing.

  If it is decided to win, the process proceeds to step S65. Note that deciding whether to win or not is to decide whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state, but to decide whether or not to stop the special symbol display as a big hit symbol. But there is.

  If it is confirmed in step S61 that the value of the random R (random number for jackpot determination) does not match any jackpot determination value, the process proceeds to step S71.

  In step S65, the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag indicating that it is a big hit. Then, the jackpot type determination table indicated by the special symbol pointer is selected as a table used to determine the jackpot type as one of a plurality of types (step S66). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 selects the jackpot type determination table for the first special symbol shown in FIG. When the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 selects the big hit type determination table for the second special symbol shown in FIG.

  Next, the CPU 56 uses the selected jackpot type determination table to select a type (“15R jackpot” or “suddenly” corresponding to the value corresponding to the random number (random 1) for jackpot type determination stored in the random number buffer area. “Probable variation big hit”) is determined as the type of big hit (step S67). In this case, the CPU 56 determines the jackpot type that is extracted in step S215A of the first start port switch passing process or step S215B of the second start port switch pass process and stored in advance in the first hold memory buffer or the second hold memory buffer. The random number is read and the jackpot type is determined.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets data indicating the determined jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (step S68). For example, when the jackpot type is “15R jackpot”, “01” is set as data indicating the jackpot type, and when the jackpot type is “suddenly probable big hit”, “03” is set as data indicating the jackpot type. The

  Next, the CPU 56 determines a special symbol stop symbol (step S71). Specifically, when the big hit flag is not set, “−”, which is a missing symbol, is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the big hit flag is set, depending on the determination result of the big hit type, one of the big hit symbols “3” and “7” is determined as the special symbol stop symbol. That is, when the big hit type is determined to be “suddenly promising big hit”, “3” is decided as a special symbol stop symbol, and when “15R big hit” is decided, “7” is decided as a special symbol stop symbol. To do.

  In this embodiment, the case where the jackpot type is first determined and the stop symbol of the special symbol corresponding to the determined jackpot type is shown, but the method for determining the jackpot type and the stop symbol of the special symbol is as follows. It is not restricted to what was shown in embodiment. For example, a table in which a special symbol stop symbol and a jackpot type are associated in advance is prepared, and a special symbol stop symbol is first determined based on a random number for determining the big hit type. You may comprise so that a classification may also be determined.

  Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S72).

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, when the big hit type is 2R big hit, the CPU 56 selects the fluctuation pattern table (see FIG. 10F) at the time of 2R big hit (steps S91 and S92). That is, it is decided to use the fluctuation pattern table at the time of 2R big hit.

  When the type of jackpot is not 2R jackpot and the gaming state is a high probability state (probability variation state) and a low base state, a variation pattern table (see FIG. 10A) at the time of high probability low base is selected (see FIG. 10A). Steps S94 and S95). When the gaming state is a high probability state and a high base state, a variation pattern table (see FIGS. 10B and 10C) at the time of the high probability high base is selected (steps S96 and S97). When the gaming state is a low probability state, a variation pattern table (see FIGS. 10D and 10E) at the low probability is selected (steps S96 and S98).

  Next, the CPU 56 reads random 2 (random number for variation pattern determination) from the random number buffer area (the first reserved storage buffer or the second reserved storage buffer) (step S101), and selects it in the process of step S92, S95, S97 or S98. By referring to the table, the variation pattern is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S102). That is, the random 2 is compared with the determination value set in the selected table, and the variation pattern corresponding to the determination value that matches the random 2 value is used as the variation pattern to be used.

  When the fluctuation pattern table at the time of high probability and high base or the fluctuation pattern table at the time of low probability is selected, the CPU 56 is determined to make a big hit (when the big hit flag is set). ) In the process of step S102, when the table used in the case of a big hit (see FIGS. 10B and 10D) is determined to be out of place (the big hit flag is set) If not, a table (see FIGS. 10C and 10E) used in the case of a loss is used in the process of step S102.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the symbol variation designation command indicated by the special symbol pointer to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S103). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a first symbol variation designation command. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a second symbol variation designation command. Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit an effect control command (variation pattern command) corresponding to the determined variation pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S104).

  Next, the CPU 56 starts changing the special symbol (step S105). Further, a value corresponding to the variation time corresponding to the selected variation pattern is set in the variation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S106). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the display result designation command transmission process (step S302) (step S107).

  In the case where it is determined to be out of place, instead of determining the variation pattern regardless of the reach, it may be determined first whether or not to reach by a lottery process using a random number for reach determination. . Then, the variation pattern may be determined based on the determination result of whether or not to reach.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the display result designation command transmission process (step S302). In the display result designation command transmission process, the CPU 56 performs a control to transmit an effect control command (see FIG. 11) of any one of the display result 1 designation to the display result 3 designation in accordance with the determined jackpot type or loss. Do. Specifically, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S111). If not set, the process proceeds to step S115. When the big hit flag is set, it is confirmed whether or not the big hit type is 15R big hit (step S112). When the big hit type is 15R big hit, control is performed to transmit a display result 2 designation command (step S113). If the big hit type is not 15R big hit (sudden probability change big hit), control is performed to transmit a display result 3 designation command (step S114). Whether or not it is a 15R big hit can be specifically determined by checking whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S68 of the special symbol normal process is “01”.

  In step S115, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 1 designation command.

  Then, the CPU 56 decreases the number of lighting of the special symbol reservation storage display by 1 (step S116). In the process of step S116, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 decreases the number of lighting of the first special symbol hold storage display 18a by 1, and the special symbol pointer becomes “second”. ", The number of lighting of the second special symbol reservation storage display 18b is decreased by one. Further, control is performed to transmit the reserved memory count subtraction designation command indicated by the special symbol pointer to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S117). In step S117, when a value indicating "first" is set in the special symbol pointer, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a first reserved memory number subtraction designation command. Further, when a value indicating “second” is set in the special symbol pointer, control for transmitting the second reserved memory number subtraction designation command is performed. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S303) (step S118).

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the special symbol changing process (step S303) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol changing process, the CPU 56 decrements the variable time timer by 1 (step S125). When the variable time timer times out (step S126), the special symbol stop time symbol is derived and displayed (step S127), and the effect control is performed. Control is performed to transmit a symbol confirmation designation command to the microcomputer 100 (step S128). Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop process (step S304) (step S129). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process ends.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S131). If the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability change flag indicating the probability change state and the time reduction flag indicating the time reduction state if set (step S132). Control for transmitting a big hit start designation command or a sudden big hit start designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed (step S133). Specifically, when the type of jackpot is 15R jackpot, a jackpot start designation command is transmitted. When the big hit type is suddenly probable big hit, a sudden big hit start designation command is transmitted. Whether the big hit type is 15R big hit or suddenly probable big hit is determined based on the data indicating the big hit type stored in the RAM 55 (data stored in the big hit type buffer). .

  In addition, a value corresponding to the big hit display time (time for notifying that the big hit has occurred, for example, in the effect display device 9) is set in the big prize opening control timer (step S134). Further, the number of times of opening is set in the number of times of opening counter (step S135). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the pre-winner opening pre-processing (step S305) (step S136). In the process of step S135, the CPU 56 sets 15 times when the big hit type is 15R big hit, and sets 2 times when the big hit type is suddenly probable big hit.

  When the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56, when the probability variation flag is set (step S141), decrements the value of the variation counter that indicates the number of times the special symbol can be varied in the probability variation state by -1 ( Step S142). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the fluctuation counter is 0 (step S143). If it becomes 0, the probability variation flag is reset (step S144). Control is performed to transmit the low probability state designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S145). When the probability variation flag is set in the big hit end process (see FIG. 24), a predetermined value (“74” in this embodiment) is set in the variation counter.

  Further, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag indicating that the time reduction state is set (step S146). If not set, the process proceeds to step S147. When the time reduction flag is set, the value of the time reduction counter indicating the number of times the special symbol can be changed in the time reduction state (high base state) is decremented by 1 (step S147). When the value of the time reduction counter after subtraction becomes 0 (step S148), the CPU 56 resets the time reduction flag (step S149). Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a low base state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S150). When the time reduction flag is set in the big hit end process (see FIG. 24), a value smaller than the value set in the fluctuation number counter (“70” in this embodiment) is set in the time reduction number counter. The

  Thereafter, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S151).

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process. In the jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot end display timer is operating (step S160). If the jackpot end display timer is operating, the process proceeds to step S164. If the jackpot end display timer is not in operation, the jackpot flag is reset (step S161), and control for transmitting a jackpot end designation command is performed (step S162). In the process of step S162, the CPU 56 transmits a big hit end designation command when it is a 15R big hit, and sends a sudden big hit end designation command when it is a sudden probability change big hit. And the value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time (big hit end display time) that the big hit end display is performed in the effect display device 9 is set in the big hit end display timer, and the big hit end display timer is operating. (Step S163), and the process is terminated.

  In step S164, 1 is subtracted from the value of the jackpot end display timer. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end display time has elapsed (step S165). If not, the process ends.

  If the jackpot end display time has elapsed, the CPU 56 sets a probability change flag to change the gaming state to a probability change state (step S170). Further, “74” as a predetermined value is set in the variation counter (step S171). Furthermore, a time reduction flag is set to change the gaming state to a time reduction state (high base state) (step S172). Further, “70” is set in the hour / short time counter (step S173). And control which transmits the high probability state designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for production control is performed (step S174). Further, control for transmitting a high base state designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed (step S175).

  Thereafter, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S176).

  In this embodiment, “74” is set in the variation count counter and “70” is set in the time reduction count counter. However, these values are merely examples, and are larger than the values set in the variation count counter. Other values may be used as long as the value set in the time reduction counter is small.

  Next, a series of effects executed over a plurality of variable displays will be described. FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a series of effects (hereinafter also simply referred to as “effects”). In the example shown in FIG. 25, when the variable display (fluctuation) of the identification information is performed in the left middle right symbol display areas 9L, 9C, 9R (see FIG. 25A) on the display screen of the effect display device 9. In addition, an image 9 b prompting the operation of the operation button 150 for the effect is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9, and an indicator image 9 a indicating the progress of the effect is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9 ( FIG. 25B).

  If the player performs an operation (for example, a pressing operation) on the operation button 150 during a series of effects, the display amount (frequency display) of the indicator in the image 9a increases (FIGS. 25C to 25C). G)). A predetermined character image 9c is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9 during the variable display (fluctuation) of the decorative symbol whose display result is a big hit symbol, and an image of “achievement!” Is displayed (FIG. 25 (H), (I)). Thereafter, the display result is derived and displayed on the effect display device 9.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, effect control CPU 101) as effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (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 S706.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and performs a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S705).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S706). In the effect control process, the 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.

  27 to 30 are flowcharts showing specific examples of command analysis processing (step S705). 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 CPU 101 confirms the content 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 a ring buffer type command reception buffer capable of storing six 2-byte effect control commands. (Formed in RAM). A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 analyzes which command (see FIG. 11) is the effect control command stored in the command reception buffer.

  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 power-on specification command (initialization specification command) (step S615), the effect control CPU 101 displays an initial screen on the effect display device 9 indicating that the initialization process has been executed. Control is performed (step S616). The initial screen includes an initial display of predetermined decorative symbols.

  Further, if the received effect control command is a power failure recovery designation command (step S617), a predetermined power failure recovery screen (screen for displaying information notifying the player that the gaming state is continuing) is displayed. Display control is performed (step S618).

  If the received effect control command is a variation pattern command (step S621), the effect control CPU 101 stores the received variation pattern command in a variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM (step S622). Then, a variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S623).

  If the received effect control command is a display result designation command (step S625), the effect control CPU 101 forms the received display result designation command (display result 1 designation command to display result 3 designation command) in the RAM. Is stored in the display result designation command storage area (step S626).

  If the received effect control command is a symbol confirmation designation command (step S627), the effect control CPU 101 sets a confirmed command reception flag (step S628).

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

  If the received effect control command is a surprise big hit start designation command (step S633), the effect control CPU 101 sets a sudden big hit start designation command reception flag (step S634).

  If the received effect control command is a special winning opening open designation command (step S635), the production control CPU 101 sets a special winning opening open designation command reception flag (step S636).

  If the received effect control command is a designation command after opening the big prize opening (step S637), the production control CPU 101 sets a designation command reception flag after opening the big prize opening (step S638).

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot end designation command (step S641), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot end designation command reception flag (step S642). If the received effect control command is a sudden big hit end designation command (step S643), the production control CPU 101 sets a sudden big hit end designation command reception flag (step S644).

  If the received effect control command is any of the first winning determination result specifying commands (any of winning determination result 1 specifying command to winning determination result 3 specifying command) (step S645), the effect controlling CPU 101 The winning determination result corresponding to the received first winning determination result designation command is stored in the temporary storage area for the first winning determination result in the RAM or the register of the CPU 101 for effect control (step S646).

  If the received effect control command is any second winning determination result designation command (any of winning determination result 21 designation command to winning determination result 22 designation command) (step S647), the effect control CPU 101 Then, the winning determination result corresponding to the received second winning determination result designation command is stored in the temporary storage area for the second winning determination result in the register of the RAM or the CPU 101 for effect control (step S648).

  If the received effect control command is the first reserved memory number addition designation command (step S651), the effect control CPU 101 increments the value of the total reserved memory counter by 1 (step S652). In addition, the production control CPU 101 updates the display of the number of reserved memories in the total reserved memory display unit 18c (step S653). That is, the number of displayed images (for example, circles) is increased by one.

  Further, in the winning determination result storage buffer in the RAM, the winning determination result stored in the temporary storage area for the first winning determination result in the process of step S646 is set in the area corresponding to the value of the total pending storage number counter. (Step S654). Then, the contents of the temporary storage area for the first winning determination result are cleared (step S655).

  If the received effect control command is the second reserved memory number addition designation command (step S657), the effect control CPU 101 increments the value of the total reserved memory counter by 1 (step S658). Further, the production control CPU 101 updates the display of the number of reserved memories in the total reserved memory display unit 18c (step S659). That is, the number of displayed images (for example, circles) is increased by one.

  Further, in the winning determination result storage buffer, the winning determination result stored in the temporary storage area for the second winning determination result in the process of step S648 is set in the area corresponding to the value of the total pending storage number counter. (Step S660). Then, the contents of the temporary storage area for the second winning determination result are cleared (step S661).

  FIG. 31 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of an area (a winning determination result storage buffer) for storing a winning determination result. As shown in FIG. 31, in this embodiment, eight storage areas are secured in the winning determination result storage buffer. Note that the number of storage areas need not be eight (for example, four).

  If the received effect control command is the first reserved memory number subtraction designation command (step S665), the effect control CPU 101 decrements the value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S666). Also, the value of the summation pending storage counter is decremented by 1 (step S667). Then, the display of the number of reserved memories in the total reserved memory display unit 18c is updated (step S668). That is, the number of images (for example, circles) displayed on the summed hold storage display unit 18c is reduced by one. Specifically, for example, the leftmost image among the displayed images is deleted, and the other images are moved to the left side.

  Further, the production control CPU 101 shifts the contents of the reserved storage area (step S669). That is, the first winning determination result (the winning determination result corresponding to the variable display executed this time) stored in the holding storage area is deleted.

  If the received effect control command is the second reserved memory number subtraction designation command (step S670), the effect control CPU 101 decrements the value of the second reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S671). Also, the value of the summation pending storage counter is decremented by 1 (step S672). Then, the display of the number of reserved memories in the total reserved memory display unit 18c is updated (step S673). That is, the number of images (for example, circles) displayed on the summed hold storage display unit 18c is reduced by one.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 shifts the contents of the reserved storage area (step S674). That is, the first winning determination result (the winning determination result corresponding to the variable display executed this time) stored in the holding storage area is deleted.

  If the received effect control command is a high probability state designation command (step S680), the effect control CPU 101 sets a high probability flag (step S681). If the received effect control command is a low probability state designation command (step S682), the effect control CPU 101 resets the high probability flag (step S683). Further, a low probability transition flag indicating that the transition from the high probability state (probability change state) to the low probability state (normal state) is set (step S684).

  If the received effect control command is a high base state designation command (step S685), the effect control CPU 101 sets a high base flag (step S686). If the received effect control command is a low base state designation command (step S687), the effect control CPU 101 resets the high base flag (step S688). Further, a low base transition flag indicating that the transition has been made from the high base state to the low base state is set (step S689).

  If the received effect control command is another command, effect control CPU 101 sets a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (step S691). Then, control goes to a step S611.

  FIG. 32 is an explanatory diagram showing random numbers used by the production control microcomputer 100. As shown in FIG. 32, in this embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 uses the first to third final stop symbol determination random numbers SR1-1 to SR1-3 and the effect determination random number SR2. Note that random numbers other than these may be used in order to enhance the effect.

  The random numbers SR1-1 to SR1-3 for determining the first to third final stop symbols are “left”, “middle”, “in” in the display area of the effect display device 9 as stop symbols that are variable display results of the decorative symbols. This is a random number used to determine a decorative symbol (final stop symbol) to be stopped and displayed in each “right” symbol display area. The final stop symbols are three decorative symbols that are finally stopped and displayed in each of the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas when the variable display of the decorative symbols ends. The combination of the big hit symbols of the decorative symbols is determined by any one of the random numbers SR1-1 to SR1-3 for determining the first to third final stop symbols.

  The effect determination random number SR2 is a random number for determining whether or not to execute a series of effects.

  FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S706) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs one of steps S800 to S807 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed. In the effect control process, the display state of the effect display device 9 is controlled to realize variable display of decorative symbols, but control related to variable display of decorative symbols synchronized with the change of the first special symbol is also the second. Control related to variable display of decorative symbols synchronized with the variation of special symbols is also executed in one effect control process.

  Further, the variable display of the decorative symbol synchronized with the variation of the first special symbol and the variable display of the decorative symbol synchronized with the variation of the second special symbol may be executed by separate effect control process processing. Good.

  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 effect control 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 variation of the ornament symbol is started. Then, the value of the effect control 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 effect control 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 effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) or the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  Big hit display process (step S804): After the end of the variation time, control is performed to display a screen for notifying the effect display device 9 of the occurrence of the big hit. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the in-round processing (step S805).

  In-round processing (step S805): Display control during round is performed. If the round end condition is satisfied, if the final round has not ended, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the post-round processing (step S806). If the final round has ended, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot end effect process (step S807).

  Post-round processing (step S806): 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 process (step S805).

  Big hit end effect processing (step S807): In the effect display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit game state has ended. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control 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). If the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variation pattern command reception flag is reset (step S812). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S813).

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing a decoration symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the decorative symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 executes effect determination processing (step S820). The effect control CPU 101 also displays the decorative symbol display result (ie, the received display result specifying command and the variation pattern command) based on the data stored in the display result specifying command storage region and the variation pattern command storage region (that is, the received display result specifying command and the variation pattern command). (Stop symbol) is determined (step S821A). The determined decorative symbol display result is stored in a decorative symbol display result storage area formed in the RAM.

  FIG. 36 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a decorative symbol stop symbol. In the example shown in FIG. 36, when the received display result designation command indicates a 15R jackpot (when the received display result designation command is a display result 2 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 uses the stop design as a stop symbol. The combination of the decorative symbols with the three symbols is determined.

  When the received display result designation command suddenly shows a probable big hit (when the received display result designation command is a display result 3 designation command), the production control CPU 101 is a sudden big hit as a stop symbol. The combination of “135”, which is the chance chance, is determined.

  And in the case of detachment, a combination of decorative symbols other than the above is determined. However, when a reach effect is involved, a combination of decorative symbols in which two left and right symbols are aligned is determined. Whether or not a reach effect is involved can be determined by a variation pattern command. In a predetermined case, the stop symbol is set to “794” which is a special symbol. The predetermined case is a case where the low base shift flag is set.

  Specifically, the production control CPU 101 is, for example, a case where it is not decided to make a symbol that is out of place, and a case where it is not decided to reach (specified by a variation pattern command). Extracts SR1-1 to SR1-3, determines the left symbol using SR1-1, determines the middle symbol using SR1-2, and determines the right symbol using SR1-3. If the determined left and right symbols match, the right symbol is shifted by one symbol. When it is decided to reach (specified by the fluctuation pattern command), SR1-1 to SR1-2 are extracted, the left and right symbols are decided using SR1-1, and SR1-2 is used. Determine the middle symbol. When the determined left middle right symbol is a chance or a special symbol, for example, the right symbol is shifted by one symbol.

  In case of suddenly probable big hit, the left middle right stop symbol is determined as a chance. If it is decided to win 15R, SR1-1 is extracted, and SR1-1 is used to determine the left middle right stop symbol (a combination of decorative symbols with left middle right symbols aligned). . Then, the determined stop symbol is stored in the storage area.

  As for the decorative symbol, a stop symbol that recalls a big hit is called a big hit symbol. A stop symbol that recalls a 15R jackpot is called a jackpot symbol. And a stop symbol that reminds of a loss is called a loss symbol.

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 resets the low base shift flag when the low base shift flag is set (step S821B).

  The low base transition flag is set when the high base state transitions to the low base state (see FIG. 30). However, in the computer embodiment, after the big hit game is finished (in this embodiment, the game When the variable display is executed 70 times, the high base state is shifted to the low base state. That is, the state in which the low base transition flag is set is when the 71st variable display is started after the gaming state is controlled to the probability changing state.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not an effect execution flag or a special effect execution flag is set (step S822). The effect execution flag may be set in the process of step S820 executed when variable display (fluctuation) of the current decorative symbol is started, or when the variation of the decorative symbol executed in the past is started. The set state that is set in the process of step S820 executed in step S820 may be maintained. Further, the special effect execution flag is set in the process of step S820.

  When the effect execution flag or the special effect execution flag is set, the process proceeds to step S827.

  When neither the effect execution flag nor the special effect execution flag is set, the received variation pattern command is read from the variation pattern command storage area of the RAM (step S823). Then, a process table (see FIG. 37) corresponding to the variation pattern is selected (step S824). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S825).

  In addition, the CPU 101 for effect control, according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1), effects device (effect display device 9 as an effect component, effect component as an effect component) Control of the various lamps and the speaker 27 as a production component is executed (step S826). For example, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image 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 perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27.

  If the effect execution flag is set, the process table corresponding to the effect is selected in the effect determination process in step S820.

  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 S827). Further, a predetermined time is set in the fluctuation control timer (step S828).

  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.

  Further, when writing the 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 by, for example, 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.

  Thereafter, the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol changing process (step S802) (step S829).

  FIG. 37 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the 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 obtained by collecting a plurality of process timer set values and combinations of display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data (effect control execution data). The display control execution data includes data indicating each variation mode constituting the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the decorative symbols. Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. The process timer set value is set with a change time in the form of the change.

  The process table shown in FIG. 37 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. A process table is prepared for each variation pattern. In addition, a process table is also provided for executing effects related to jackpot notification and effects during the jackpot game.

  FIG. 38 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an effect executed in accordance with the contents of the process table. As shown in FIG. 38, the effect control CPU 101 executes effect control according to the process data (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, An effect such as a background during the change of a decorative pattern is realized.

  In this embodiment, the image data related to the variation of the decorative design is not set in the process table. The variation of the decorative pattern itself is directly controlled by the effect control CPU 101 without using the process table.

  In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 performs control so that the decorative pattern is variably displayed by the change pattern corresponding to the change pattern command on a one-to-one basis. The variation pattern to be used may be selected from a plurality of types of variation patterns corresponding to.

  39 and 40 are flowcharts showing the effect determination process. In the effect determination process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the effect execution flag is already set (step S6001). If it is set, the process proceeds to step S6031. When the effect execution flag is not set, it is confirmed whether or not the low base shift flag is set (step S6002). If the low base shift flag is not set, the process shifts to step S6031. If the low base transition flag is set, the process proceeds to step S6004.

  In step S6004, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the value of the total pending storage number counter is zero. If the value of the total pending storage number counter is 0, the process ends. In this case, a series of effects is not executed.

  If the value of the total pending storage number counter is not 0, it is checked whether or not the value of the total pending storage number counter exceeds 4 (step S6005). If the value of the total pending storage number counter is 4 or less, the winning determination result of the number indicated by the total pending storage number counter is read from the winning determination result storage buffer (step S6006). If the value of the total pending storage number counter exceeds 4, four winning determination results are read from the winning determination result storage buffer (step S6007). It should be noted that the four winning-time determination results are the ones with the older occurrence times. In the example shown in FIG. 31, it is the determination result at the time of winning which is stored in the storage area of the area numbers 1 to 4 among the areas with the area numbers 1 to 8.

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the read winning determination result includes a winning determination result indicating 15R jackpot (step S6008). If there is no winning determination result indicating 15R big hit, the process proceeds to step S6015.

  If there is a winning determination result indicating 15R jackpot, the storage area number where the winning determination result indicating 15R jackpot is stored is set (step S6009). If there is a winning determination result indicating a plurality of 15R jackpots, the effect control CPU 101 sets the area number (the largest area number) of the latest storage area in the process of step S6009.

  Next, an effect execution flag is set (step S6010). In addition, an effect process table corresponding to the value of the effect counter is selected (step S601: effect counter value 1). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S6012). Further, according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1), an effect device (the effect display device 9 as an effect component, various lamps as an effect component, and an effect component) The control of the speaker 27) is executed (step S6013).

  In this embodiment, a series of effects are executed over a variation of the number of decorative symbols corresponding to the value set in the effect counter in the process of step S6009. At the time of change, the effects are executed based on the process table of each effect. For example, the effects executed based on the process table of effects selected when the value of the effect counter is other than 1 in the process of step S6011 are shown in FIGS. 25 (B), 25 (C), 25 (D), (E), the effects as illustrated in FIGS. 25F and 25G (except for the control of the indicator image 9a). Further, the effects executed based on the process table of effects selected when the value of the effect counter is other than 1 are the effects as illustrated in FIGS. However, in the case of 15R big hit, an “achievement!” Image as shown in FIG. 25I is displayed. However, if 15R big hit is not reached, the image is not displayed.

  In step S6015, the effect control CPU 101 extracts the effect determination random number. Then, it is determined whether or not to execute a series of effects using an effect determination table as shown in FIG. 41 (step S6016). That is, it is determined that a series of effects is executed when the value of the random number for effect determination matches one of the determination values set corresponding to “perform effect”.

  If it is decided to execute the effect (step S6017), the effect counter is set to 4 or the total number of pending storage (step S6018), and the process proceeds to step S6010.

  In the process of step S6018, the CPU 101 for effect control sets the sum hold memory number in the effect count counter when the sum hold memory number is 4 or less, and sets 4 in the effect count counter when it exceeds 4. .

  In step S6031, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the special effect prohibition flag is set. If the special effect prohibition flag is set, the process proceeds to step S6040.

  In this embodiment, a series of effects may be executed even when there is no winning determination result indicating 15R jackpot among the read winning determination results, but among the read winning determination results If there is no winning determination result indicating 15R big hit, a series of effects may not be executed.

  In this embodiment, when there is no winning determination result indicating 15R jackpot among the read winning determination results, it is determined to execute a series of effects at a certain rate (see FIG. 41). You may make it change the ratio determined to perform a series of effects according to the total number of pending storage. In that case, for example, the ratio determined to execute a series of effects is increased as the total number of pending storages increases.

  In addition, when there is no winning determination result indicating 15R jackpot among the read winning determination results, the effect control CPU 101 sequentially performs lottery processing (for example, the number of times corresponding to the number of read winning determination results) Using a table in which a determination value corresponding to “execute performance” is set at a ratio of 50% of the range of values that can be taken by the random number, and the extracted random number value matches the determination value, the effect is executed If there is a lottery process decided to execute the production, a series of productions may be executed.

  After that, when the special effect prohibition flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the display result specifying command stored in the display result specifying command storage area is a display result specifying command for 15R jackpot. (Step S6032). That is, it is confirmed whether or not the received display result designation command indicates 15R big hit. In other words, it is confirmed whether or not the decorative symbol variable display (variation) stop symbol to be started is a jackpot symbol.

  If the received display result designation command indicates 15R jackpot, the winning determination result (the winning determination result stored in the storage area of the winning determination result storage buffer) for the total number of pending storages is included. It is confirmed whether or not there is a determination result at the time of winning that results in 15R big hit (step S6034).

  When there is such a winning determination result, the effect control CPU 101 sets a special effect executing flag (step S6035). Further, a process table corresponding to the special effect is selected (step S6036). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S6037). Further, according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1), an effect device (effect display device 9 as an effect component, various lamps as an effect component, and an effect component) The control of the speaker 27) is executed (step S6038). Further, a special effect prohibition flag is set (step S6039).

  When the process of steps S6032 to S6038 is executed, and when the variation of the decorative symbol having the display result as the big win symbol is started, the winning determination result includes the winning determination result which is 15R big hit. Special production starts.

  In other words, the special effect is that the display result of this time is a big hit symbol during the change of the decorative symbol with the display result as the big hit symbol, and the display result in the variation of any decorative symbol based on the reserved memory is the big hit symbol. The effect is to notify the player that there is something. The special effect is an effect different from a series of effects and the like, and a special character image that is not displayed in other cases is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9 or is not displayed in other cases. The effect is to make a background design.

  Further, once the special effect is executed by executing the process of step S6031, execution of the special effect is prohibited again until a predetermined condition is satisfied. The predetermined condition is, for example, a transition from a high probability state (probability variation state) to a low probability state.

  In step S6040, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not an effect execution flag indicating execution of a series of effects is set. If the effect execution flag is set, an effect process table corresponding to the value of the effect counter is selected (step S6041). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S6042). Further, according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1), an effect device (the effect display device 9 as an effect component, various lamps as an effect component, and an effect component) The control of the speaker 27) is executed (step S6043).

  42 and 43 are flowcharts showing the decorative symbol variation process (step S802) in the effect control process shown in FIG. 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, the control state for the effect device (effect parts) is changed based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data set next (step S844).

  If the variation control timer has timed out (step S845), the effect control CPU 101 displays the next display screen of the left, middle and right decorative symbols (displayed 30 ms after the previous decorative symbol display switching time). Image data of a power screen is created and written in a predetermined area of the VRAM (step S846). In this way, the effect control device 9 implements decorative pattern variation control. 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. As such, the effect control device 9 displays the background image, the character image, and the decorative design in the decorative design variation. Further, a predetermined value (for example, a value corresponding to 30 ms) is reset in the variation control timer (step S847).

  Next, the production control CPU 101 checks whether or not the production execution flag is set (step S851). If the effect execution flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S854. If the effect execution flag is set, it is confirmed whether or not the operation button 150 has been operated via the input port 107 (see FIG. 3) (step S852). When it is confirmed that the operation button 150 has been operated, the effect control CPU 101 increases the display amount (frequency display) in the indicator image 9a (step S853).

  It should be noted that the effect control CPU 101 always increases the degree of increase (amount that increases in response to one operation button 150 operation) by a fixed amount in response to one operation button 150 operation. However, for example, it may be made different depending on the value of the production counter and the display amount displayed at that time. For example, when the value of the production counter is large (the initial stage of a series of productions), if the display amount is already large, the increase amount is reduced. Further, when the value of the effect counter is small (the latter stage of a series of effects), if the display amount is small, the increase amount is increased.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 changes the degree of increase between the case where there is a plurality of winning determination results corresponding to 15R big hit and the case where there is no one corresponding to 15R big hit. May be. For example, when there is no one corresponding to 15R big hit, the degree of increase is made smaller than in the case where there is one corresponding to 15R big hit among a plurality of winning determination results.

  In addition, in the process of step S852, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the pressing operation unit on the operation button 150 is operated, but may confirm whether or not the rotation operation unit is operated.

  In addition, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the variable time timer has timed out (step S854). When the variation time timer has timed out, if a series of effects has been executed, the display amount (frequency) of the indicator image 9a is stored in the storage area of the RAM (step S856). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation stop process (step S803) (step S857). Even if the variable time timer has not timed out, if the confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (step S855), the effect control CPU 101 executes the processes of steps S856 and S857. .

  FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing a decoration symbol variation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the decorative symbol variation stop process, the effect control CPU 101 resets the confirmed command reception flag if the confirmed command reception flag is set (step S8301). In addition, control for deriving and displaying a stop symbol is performed according to the data (data indicating the stop symbol) stored in the decorative symbol display result storage area (step S8302).

  When the effect execution flag is set, the value of the effect number counter is decremented by 1 (steps S8303 and S8304). If the value of the production counter is 0, the production execution flag is reset (steps S8305 and S8306).

  In addition, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not it is decided to make a big hit (step S8307). Whether or not it is decided to win is confirmed by, for example, a display result designation command stored in the display result designation command storage area. In this embodiment, it can be confirmed whether or not it is determined to be a big hit based on the determined stop symbol. If it is not determined to be a big hit, the process proceeds to step S8311.

  When it is determined to be the big hit, the CPU 101 for effect control selects a process table corresponding to the effect (fanfare effect) for notifying the start of the big hit (step S8321).

  Then, the production control CPU 101 starts a process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table (step S8322). Further, according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1), an effect device (the effect display device 9 as an effect component, various lamps as an effect component, and an effect component) The control of the speaker 27) is executed (step S8323). Further, a value corresponding to the jackpot display time is set in the effect timer (step S8324).

  Thereafter, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) (step S8325).

  In step S8311, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the low probability transition flag is set. If the low probability transition flag is set, the low probability transition flag is reset (step S8312), and it is confirmed whether or not the special effect prohibition flag is set (step S8313). If the special effect prohibition flag is set, the special effect prohibition flag is reset (step S8314).

  The effect control CPU 101 deletes the indicator image 9a from the display screen of the effect display device 9 (step S8315). Thereafter, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S8316).

  FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing the jackpot display process (step S804) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the jackpot display process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the big winning opening open designation command reception flag indicating that the special winning opening open designation command has been received is set (step S861). If the special prize opening opening designation command reception flag is set, the process proceeds to step S866.

  When the special prize opening opening designation command reception flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S862). When the process timer times out (step S863), the process data is switched. That is, the process timer setting value set next in the process table is set in the process timer (step S864). Further, the control state of the rendering device is changed based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data set next (step S865).

  In step S866, the effect control CPU 101 resets the special winning opening open designation command reception flag. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the in-round processing (step S805) (step S867).

  As described above, in this embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 performs variable display of the identification information a plurality of times including the variable display of the identification information in which the high probability state stored in the holding storage means ends. Data determination processing for determining whether or not there is determination data to be controlled in the specific gaming state in the determination data corresponding to (for example, the processing of steps S221 to S223 in the game control microcomputer 560) Steps S6005 and S6007) are executed, and a series of effects are executed over a plurality of variable displays based on the determination result (see Steps S6010 to S6012, S6041 to S6043, and S841 to S844). In the period controlled by the probability state, the execution frequency of a series of effects can be increased. It is possible to prevent that the reliability is lowered also. In addition, the player's expectation of being controlled to the specific game state can be further improved, and as a result, the interest of the game can be further improved.

  In the above-described embodiment, a series of effects are executed from the variable display that starts after the transition to the low base state. However, when the variable display ends, the transition to the low base state occurs (that is, When the big hit game after the end of the variable display ends, the game shifts to the low base state.) A series of effects may be executed from the variable display. Specifically, a series of effects may be executed from a variable display started when the value of the variation counter is “1”.

  In other words, the production control microcomputer 100 recognizes that the advantageous state in which the frequency of controlling the normally variable prize-winning device to the first state (the state in which the game medium easily enters the starting area) is increased after the variable display is ended. When variable display of information is started, a series of effects may be executed.

  In the above embodiment, as an example of a series of effects, an effect is used in which the display amount (frequency display) in the indicator image 9a continuously increases over a plurality of variable displays. Such an effect is an example.

  For example, an effect having a predetermined story characteristic may be executed over a plurality of variable displays, and an effect may be executed in which the result of the story is displayed based on the determination result of the jackpot determination or the variation pattern. . For example, when a soccer game or a battle effect is played such that an enemy ally character fights, and if the team wins 15R, the ally wins the game or the teammate character wins the battle. For example, an effect may be made such that the teammate loses the game or the teammate character loses the battle. Further, for example, instead of displaying the result such as winning or losing, an effect may be executed in which a predetermined story such as a story is developed in order over a plurality of variable displays.

  In the above embodiment, a so-called button effect in which a series of effects are executed on condition that the operation means such as an operation button is operated is exemplified. However, a so-called step-up effect is executed as a series of effects. May be. The step-up effect is an effect executed during variable display (variation display) of symbols executed for one start winning prize, and in particular, an effect mode (display, sound, lamp (including LED), movable object, etc. Is a production that changes in multiple stages. In general, the greater the number of changes (number of steps), the higher the reliability of the big hit.

  Furthermore, when a button effect is executed as a series of effects, the background on the display screen of the effect display device 9 may be changed when the operation button 150 is pressed a predetermined number of times. For example, when the operation button 150 is pressed a predetermined number of times, it changes from a background reminiscent of the morning to a background reminiscent of the daytime, and when the operation button 150 is pressed a predetermined number of times, the day is recalled. Change from a background to a background reminiscent of night. Further, when such an effect is performed, if it is out of place, the predetermined number of times the operation button is pressed until the background type is switched may be increased as compared with the case where 15R is a big hit. That is, in the case of falling off, the background type may be difficult to change.

  In addition, as an effect using the operation means, for example, a press signal indicating that the operation button 150 has been pressed (output from the operation button 150) is valid over a plurality of variable displays where the effect is executed. A plurality of periods may be defined, and when the operation button 150 is pressed during the effective period, the content of the effect may be changed (for example, the background type is changed).

  Moreover, you may make it use the image of a specific pattern as a series of effects.

  In addition, as a series of effects, effects of moving objects, effects by sound, effects by lamps (LEDs), effects that start on the condition that the player has operated an operation means (for example, a push button, joystick, cross key) Etc. may be used.

  In addition, the effect executed on the condition that the player operates the operation means is not the effect using the indicator image 9a as in the above embodiment, but the effect of the movement of the movable object, the sound, the lamp (LED) You may make the production. When performing an effect by sound, an effect in which the melody sound continues over a plurality of variable displays is performed, but when the 15R big hit is reached, the melody is completed, and when it is out of the way, the melody is halfway Sound output may be stopped.

  In addition, the production control microcomputer 100 performs a successful production in a series of productions (for example, the display amount (frequency display) in the indicator image 9a is 100%, or the teammate character wins the battle production). The reach effect may be executed on the condition that the effect is executed.

  In the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a low base state designation command when the initial value is 70 and the value of the time counter is 0 (step S173 in FIG. 24 and FIG. 23). The production control microcomputer 100 starts a series of productions on the condition that the low base state designation command is received (see steps S687 and S689 in FIG. 30 and step S6002 in FIG. 39). In addition, since a series of effects are executed over the variable display corresponding to up to four in the total pending storage at that time (see steps S6005 to S6007 in FIG. 39), the series of effects is a low base. From the transition to the state until the high probability state ends ( In the embodiment of the serial, to be executed only on the variable display during) the 71-74 th after shifting to the high probability and high base state.

  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 sound control and lamp 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. 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 enables a player to play a predetermined game using a game medium, and starts variable display of identification information and derives and displays a display result when a variable display start condition is satisfied. It can be applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine equipped with.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8a 1st special symbol display device 8b 2nd special symbol display device 9 Production display device 13 1st starting winning port 14 2nd starting winning port 20 Special variable winning ball device 31 Game control board (main board)
56 CPU
80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 101 Production control CPU
109 VDP
150 Operation buttons 560 Microcomputer for game control

Claims (4)

It is possible for a player to play a predetermined game using the game medium, and after the game medium enters the start area, the variable display of the identification information is started based on the fact that the variable display start condition is satisfied and displayed. Variable display means for deriving and displaying the result, and when a predetermined specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display means, it is controlled to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player, and after the specific gaming state is finished, A gaming machine that controls the gaming state to a high probability state that has a higher probability of being controlled to the specific gaming state than when the gaming state is in a normal state until a variable number of times of identification information display is executed,
Extraction means for extracting determination data when a game medium enters the starting area;
A storage unit for storing the determination data extracted by the extraction unit as a storage unit with a predetermined upper limit as a limit;
Pre-determining means for determining whether to control to the specific gaming state based on the data for determination stored in the holding storage means based on the establishment of the start condition;
The specific gaming state is controlled in the determination data corresponding to variable display of the identification information for a plurality of times including the variable display of the identification information for ending the high probability state stored in the holding storage means. Determination means for executing a data determination process for determining whether or not the determination data is present;
A game machine comprising: an effect execution means for executing a series of effects over a plurality of variable displays based on the determination result of the determination means. Including a first variable state in which a game medium is likely to enter the start area and a second state in which the game medium is difficult to enter or not enter the start area as compared to the first state;
An advantageous state control means for controlling an advantageous state in which the frequency of controlling the normally variable prize-winning device to the first state is increased after the specific gaming state is completed;
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit executes a data determination process based on the end of the advantageous state. The determination means includes the determination data to be controlled to the specific gaming state in the determination data stored in the holding storage means when the prior determination means determines to control the specific gaming state. Execute special judgment processing to determine whether or not
The special effect execution means which performs a special effect based on having determined that there exists the said data for determination corresponding to the said determination means being controlled to a specific game state by the said special determination process. Item 3. The gaming machine according to Item 2. 4. When the special effect is executed by the special effect executing means, a prohibiting means for prohibiting the execution of the special effect by the special effect executing means until the variable display of the identification information for a specific number of times is executed. The gaming machine described.

Images