JP2011234992A - Pachinko game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable a player to guess an expectation of a jackpot based on a prediction image without having poor variation in a combination of the prediction image.SOLUTION: When starting a variation (step S401: Yes), a performance controller 202 selects variable performance according to a variation of a special symbol (step S402). When the selected variation is specific variable performance (step S403: Yes), a scenario lottery determination whether to use a scenario is executed (step S404). When executing scenario performance (step S405: Yes), one scenario is selected from a plurality of scenarios previously stored (step S406). When not executing the scenario performance (step S405: No), a lottery of a prediction image in each step is executed (step S407). The prediction image of the scenario or the prediction image in each step selected by the lottery is displayed (step S408), and the processing is terminated.

Description

  The present invention relates to a pachinko gaming machine that performs a notice effect that suggests whether or not an effect develops during the change of the effect symbol.

  Conventionally, when a game ball launched into the game area of the game board wins a specific start opening, a random number is acquired at the start winning timing under the control of the main control unit, and this random number matches a predetermined jackpot random number In this case, pachinko gaming machines are widely used in which a special symbol is stopped at a symbol indicating a jackpot and the game is shifted to a jackpot gaming state.

  In such pachinko machines, the effect control that receives the result of the determination of the jackpot random number by the main control unit, and performs the effect by changing the plurality of effect symbols according to the change of the special symbol using the image display unit etc. Is provided. For example, the effect control unit increases the player's sense of expectation until reaching the jackpot by, for example, developing an effect with a high degree of expectation for the jackpot, such as a reach effect, when reaching the jackpot.

  The reach effect is, for example, when changing the three effect symbols (the first effect symbol to the third effect symbol), the first effect symbol and the second effect symbol are arranged on the effective line with the same or related symbols. Later, only the third effect symbol is changed, the effect time is made longer than usual, and the expectation for the jackpot is increased. When the third effect symbol stops at a symbol that is the same as or related to the first effect symbol and the second effect symbol, the jackpot effect is performed. If it does not stop at the same or related production design, it will be lost and the normal production will be restored.

  The production control unit performs various productions before reaching the production with high expectation for the jackpot. As an example, there is an effect of displaying a preview image such as a character image that suggests whether or not to develop a reach effect during the change of the effect symbol (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

JP 2000-126384 A

  However, in the above-described prior art, when displaying the preview image, the preview image is determined by lottery at each stage of the variation effect such as the change before reach and the change after reach. It was. Therefore, although a preview image corresponding to the degree of expectation can be displayed for each stage, a series of the preview images displayed for each stage cannot be related to the degree of expectation for the jackpot. As a result, the player has a problem that it is difficult to guess the degree of expectation for the jackpot based on the series of notice images, and the notice effect cannot be made highly interesting.

  If, for example, a predetermined series of preview images is displayed according to the degree of expectation for the jackpot, the player can extremely easily estimate the expectation for the jackpot based on the series of notice images, but for each stage. There is a risk that variations in the combination of displayed preview images will be scarce.

  The present invention eliminates the problems caused by the prior art described above, so that the player can estimate the degree of expectation for the jackpot based on a series of notice images without reducing the variation of the combination of notice images. Accordingly, an object is to provide a pachinko gaming machine that can make a notice production highly interesting.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the present invention employs the following configuration. Reference numerals in parentheses indicate correspondence with the embodiments in order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, and do not limit the scope of the present invention. The pachinko gaming machine (100) according to the present invention includes a special symbol variation means (301) for varying and stopping the determination result of the jackpot determination as a special symbol, and a special symbol variation that is suspended by the special symbol variation means (301). Depending on the time, the stage design is changed and the stage effect is developed step by step until the special design is stopped, and the stage during the stage production by the stage production stage (302). Notice effect means (303) for displaying a notice image suggesting the degree of expectation for the jackpot, and the notice effect means (303) is associated with the notice effect pattern associated with the notice image used in each stage during the fluctuating effect. Storage means (311) for storing a plurality of items corresponding to the variation effect, and the change performed by the variation effect means (302). When the effect is a predetermined variation effect, a determination unit (312) for determining whether or not to use a notice effect pattern stored in the storage unit (311) and a notification by the determination unit (312) When it is determined that an effect pattern is to be used, one of the notice effect patterns corresponding to the variation effect is selected from the notice effect patterns stored in the storage means (311), while the determination means (312) is selected. ), The selection means (313) for selecting the notice image at each stage by lottery and the notice effect pattern or the notice image selected by the selection means (313) are used. Display control means (314) for displaying a preview image sequentially for each stage as each stage during the fluctuating performance progresses. It is characterized in.

  According to the present invention, when the variation effect is a specific variation effect determined in advance, it is determined whether or not to use the notification effect pattern that associates the notification image used for each stage during the variation effect, and the determination result Accordingly, since one notice effect pattern corresponding to the changing effect is selected and the notice effect is performed, a series of connections can be provided to the notice image without reducing the variation of the combination of the notice images. Therefore, the player can estimate the degree of expectation for the jackpot based on a series of the preview images, and therefore, the effect of the effect of the notification effect can be enhanced, and the content of the effect during the change can be highly interesting. There is an effect.

It is a front view which shows an example of a pachinko gaming machine. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the control part of a pachinko game machine. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of a pachinko gaming machine. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a scenario. It is a flowchart which shows the timer interruption process which a main control part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the start port SW process which a main control part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol process which a main control part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the fluctuation pattern selection process which a main control part performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the variation pattern table for jackpots. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the variation pattern table for reach. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern table for loss. It is a flowchart which shows the production timer interruption process which a production supervision part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the command reception process which a production control part performs. It is a flowchart which shows the production | presentation selection process which an production supervision part performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the variation production pattern selection table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a notice determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a scenario lottery determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the outline | summary of the notice effect at the time of reach production. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the jackpot scenario selection table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the scenario selection table for reach loses. It is explanatory drawing which shows the transition of the production | presentation screen at the time of using the scenario E. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the transition of the production | presentation screen at the time of using the scenario E. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the preview image selection table in the stage 1. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the preview image selection table in the stage 2. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the preview image selection table in stage 3. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the preview image selection table in stage 4. It is explanatory drawing which shows the outline | summary of the notice effect in a pseudo | simulation continuous fluctuation effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the jackpot pseudo-continuous scenario selection table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a reach lose pseudo-simultaneous scenario selection table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the transition of the production | presentation screen at the time of using the scenario X. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the transition of the production | presentation screen at the time of using the scenario X. FIG.

  Exemplary embodiments of a pachinko gaming machine according to the present invention will be explained below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(Embodiment)
(Basic configuration of pachinko machine)
First, a basic configuration of a pachinko gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of a pachinko gaming machine. As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a game board 101. A launcher is disposed at a lower position of the game board 101. The game ball launched by driving the launching unit rises between the rails 102 a and 102 b and reaches the upper position of the game board 101, and then falls within the game area 103.

  A plurality of nails are provided in the game area 103, and the game balls fall in an unspecified direction by the nails. In the game area 103, a windmill and various winning openings (such as a start opening and a big winning opening) that change the falling direction of the gaming balls are arranged at positions in the middle of the falling of the gaming balls.

  An image display unit 104 is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game board 101. As the image display unit 104, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or the like is used. A first start port 105 is disposed below the image display unit 104, and a second start port 106 is disposed on the right side of the image display unit 104. The first start port 105 and the second start port 106 are winning ports for starting and winning.

  An electric tulip 107 is provided in the vicinity of the second start port 106. The electric tulip 107 takes a closed state (closed state) that makes it difficult to win the game ball to the second starting port 106 and an open state (opened state) that makes it easier to win than the closed state. Switching between these states is performed by a solenoid provided in the electric tulip 107.

  The electric tulip 107 opens based on the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery performed when the game ball passes through the gate 108 disposed above the second starting port 106. The gate 108 is not limited to the right side (the illustrated position) of the image display unit 104 and may be disposed at an arbitrary position in the game area 103.

  The electric tulip 107 has a longer opening time in the game state with a time saving, and makes it easier to guide the game ball to the second starting port 106. The time-reduced gaming state is a gaming state that is set after the time-saving jackpot is over.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 100 according to the present embodiment, in the normal gaming state, the player strikes the left and aims at the first starting port 105, while the player strikes the right in the time-saving gaming state or the jackpot gaming state. This is a type of gaming machine that aims at the second starting port 106 and plays.

  Specifically, when the player strikes left, the launched game ball flows down the left side of the game area 103 as indicated by an arrow 130. On the other hand, when the player hits the right, the launched game ball flows down the right side of the game area 103 as indicated by an arrow 140. It should be noted that game balls that have not won the second start opening 106 by right-handing are almost won at the first start opening 105 due to the arrangement of the fixed accessory 141 below the second start opening 106 and a nail (not shown). It is supposed not to.

  A big prize opening 109 is provided below the second start opening 106. The big winning opening 109 is a winning opening that is intermittently opened when a big hit gaming state is reached and a predetermined number (for example, 15) of winning balls are paid out by winning a game ball.

  A normal winning opening 110 is provided on the side of the image display unit 104 or below. The normal winning opening 110 is a winning opening for paying out a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winning balls by winning a game ball. The normal winning opening 110 is not limited to the position shown in the figure, and may be arranged at an arbitrary position in the game area 103. At the bottom of the game area 103, there is provided a collection port 111 for collecting game balls that have not won any winning ports.

  In the lower right part of the game board 101, a special symbol display unit 112 for displaying special symbols is arranged. The special symbol display unit 112 displays a special symbol 1 display unit for displaying a first special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “special symbol 1”) and a special symbol for displaying a second special symbol (hereinafter referred to as “special symbol 2”). 2 display units.

  When a game ball wins the first starting port 105, a first winning lottery is performed. The special figure 1 display unit displays the special figure 1 in a variable manner and stops and displays the lottery result of the first lottery. When the game ball wins the second starting port 106, a second winning lottery is performed. The special figure 2 display unit displays the special figure 2 in a variable manner, and stops and displays the lottery result of the second lottery.

  In addition, a normal symbol display portion 113 for displaying normal symbols is arranged in the lower right portion of the game board 101. Here, the normal symbol is a symbol representing the lottery result of the normal symbol lottery. The normal symbol lottery is a lottery for determining whether or not to open the electric tulip 107 as described above. As the special symbol display unit 112 and the normal symbol display unit 113, for example, a 7-segment display is used.

  On the left side of the special symbol display unit 112 and the normal symbol display unit 113, a reserved ball display unit 114 that displays the number of reserved balls for the special symbol or the normal symbol is arranged. The reserved ball is a game ball that is won during a change of a special symbol or a normal symbol and is held in a held state.

  As the reserved ball display unit 114, for example, an LED is used. A plurality of LEDs serving as the holding ball display unit 114 are arranged, and the number of holding balls is indicated by turning on / off. Note that the notification of the holding ball is also made by display from the image display unit 104.

  A frame member 115 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the game area 103 of the game board 101. On the two sides which are the upper side and the lower side of the game area 103 in the frame member 115, an effect light part (frame lamp) 116 is provided. The effect light units 116 each have a plurality of lamps. Each lamp irradiates the player in front of the pachinko gaming machine 100, and the irradiation direction of light can be changed in the vertical direction so that the irradiation position moves along the abdomen from the top of the player. . Each lamp is driven by a motor (not shown) provided in the effect light unit 116 so as to change the light irradiation direction in the vertical direction.

  An operation handle 117 is disposed at a lower position of the frame member 115. The operation handle 117 includes a firing instruction member 118 that drives the above-described launching unit to launch a game ball. The firing instruction member 118 is provided on the outer peripheral portion of the operation handle 117 so as to be rotated clockwise as viewed from the player. The launching unit launches a game ball when the firing instruction member 118 is directly operated by a player.

  In the frame member 115, an effect button 119 for receiving an operation by the player is provided on the lower side of the game area 103. In the frame member 115, a cross key 120 is provided next to the effect button 119. Furthermore, the frame member 115 incorporates a speaker that outputs sound.

  Although illustration is omitted, for example, a director is provided at a predetermined position such as around the image display unit 104. This performance agent is connected to a solenoid or a motor, and is driven by driving of the solenoid or the motor.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 100, the arrangement positions of the first start opening 105 and the second start opening 106 are not limited to the arrangement positions described above. For example, the first start port 105 may be arranged in the right region, the second start port 106 and the electric tulip 107 may be arranged in a region where winning can be achieved by left-handed, or the first start port 105 and the second start The mouths 106 may be arranged close to the lower region of the image display unit 104, respectively.

(Internal configuration of control unit of pachinko machine)
Next, the internal configuration of the control unit of the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the control unit of the pachinko gaming machine 100. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 200 of the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a main control unit 201 that controls the progress of the game, an effect control unit 202 that controls the contents of the effect, and a prize ball control that controls the payout of prize balls. Part 203. The configuration of each control unit will be described in detail below.

(1. Main control unit)
The main control unit 201 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 211, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 212, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 213, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The

  The main control unit 201 functions to control the progress of the game of the pachinko gaming machine 100 by executing various programs stored in the ROM 212 while the CPU 211 uses the RAM 213 as a work area. Specifically, the main control unit 201 controls the progress of the game by setting the game state in addition to the winning lottery and the normal symbol lottery. The main control unit 201 is realized by a main control board.

  The CPU 211 executes basic processing as the game content progresses based on various programs stored in the ROM 212 in advance. The ROM 212 stores a hold storage program, a winning determination program, a winning symbol determination program, a special symbol variation program, a special winning opening control program, a game state setting program, and the like.

  The hold storage program is a program for storing the game ball detected by the first start port SW221 as a special 1 hold ball and storing the game ball detected by the second start port SW222 as a special 2 hold ball. The hit determination program is a program for performing a hit determination for the special 1 holding ball and the special 2 holding ball. There are big hits and small hits.

  The winning symbol determination program is a program for determining a winning symbol corresponding to the winning content. The jackpot symbol includes a long hit symbol that can be expected for winning and a short hit symbol that cannot be expected for winning. The winning symbol determination for the special 2 reserved ball makes it easier to win the winning symbol (long hit) advantageous to the player than the winning symbol determination for the special 1 reserved ball.

  The special symbol variation program is a program that stops the variation as a special symbol based on the hit determination or the determination result of the hit symbol determination. The determination result of the hit determination and the winning symbol determination for the special 1 holding ball is variably stopped as the special figure 1 of the special figure 1 display unit 112a, while the determination result of the hit determination and the winning symbol determination for the special 2 reserved ball is 2 is suspended as a special figure 2 of the display unit 112b. Note that the special symbol change for the special 2 reserved ball is performed with priority over the special 1 reserved ball.

  The big prize opening control program is a program for intermittently opening the big prize opening 109 for 15 rounds, for example, with a predetermined opening time corresponding to short win or long win as one round. The long winning time is to increase the number of appearances by increasing the opening time of the big winning opening 109 for each round (for example, 30 seconds) and opening the large winning opening 109 for a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 15 rounds). It is a jackpot to win.

  Short win is a big hit with almost no winnings that shortens the opening time of the big winning opening 109 per round (for example, 0.1 seconds) and opens the big winning opening 109 for a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 15 rounds). It is. In addition, the small hit is a hit that can hardly be expected of the winning ball, which behaves in the same manner as the short hit, with 15 seconds of opening for 15 seconds × 1 round.

  The gaming state setting program sets the gaming state after the winning end to the low probability gaming state or the high probability gaming state according to the winning symbol, and adds the gaming state with time shortening or the electric chew support to which the electric chew support is added. This is a program for setting a short-lived gaming state when not. The electric chew support is a function of shortening the normal symbol variation time and lengthening the opening time of the electric tulip 107. In the game state with time saving, the game is played by right-handed, and in the game state without time-shortening, the game is played by left-handed.

  The low probability gaming state is a gaming state in which it is difficult to win a jackpot. The high probability gaming state is about 10 times easier to win than the low probability gaming state. Here, the jackpot and the gaming state after the jackpot will be described with specific examples. The jackpots include per-probability length, per-probability short-range (per-accuracy short-range), normal per-length, normal per-short (per-rush short-term), and latent short-term per hit. In the case of the probability variation length and the sudden probability short winning, after the big hit, the state shifts to a high probability gaming state (probability varying gaming state) to which a short time game is added.

  In the case of a normal hit and a short hit, the game shifts to a low-probability gaming state (time saving gaming state) to which a short-time game is added after the big hit. In the case of a short-latency win, after the big hit, the game shifts to a high-probability gaming state (latent-probable gaming state) in which a short-time game is not added. In the case of the small hit, after the small hit, the game state before the start of the small hit is shifted, that is, there is no change in the gaming state.

  In addition, the main control unit 201 includes various switches (SW) for detecting a game ball, a solenoid for opening and closing an electric accessory such as a special prize opening 109, the above-described special figure 1 display unit 112a, and special figure 2 display. The unit 112b, the normal symbol display unit 113, the reserved ball display unit 114, and the like are connected.

  Specifically, the various SWs described above include a first start port SW221 that detects a game ball won in the first start port 105, and a second start port SW222 that detects a game ball won in the second start port 106. , A gate SW 223 that detects a game ball that has passed through the gate 108, a big winning opening SW 224 that detects a gaming ball that has won a prize winning opening 109, and a normal winning opening SW 225 that detects a gaming ball that has won a winning prize 110 Is connected to the main control unit 201.

  The detection results detected by the respective SWs (221 to 225) are input to the main control unit 201. A proximity switch or the like is used for these SWs. It should be noted that a plurality of the normal winning opening SW225 may be provided for each arrangement position of the normal winning opening 110.

  Further, as the solenoid, an electric tulip solenoid 231 that opens and closes the electric tulip 107 and a big prize opening solenoid 232 that opens and closes the big prize opening 109 are connected to the main control unit 201. The main control unit 201 controls driving of the solenoids (231 and 232).

  Further, the main control unit 201 is also connected to the effect control unit 202 and the prize ball control unit 203, and outputs various commands to the respective control units. For example, the main control unit 201 outputs commands such as a change start command and a change stop command to the effect control unit 202. Further, the main control unit 201 outputs a prize ball command to the prize ball control unit 203. The prize ball command includes information indicating the number of prize balls to be paid out.

(2. Production control unit)
The effect control unit 202 includes an effect control unit 202a, an image / sound control unit 202b, and a lamp control unit 202c, and has a function of controlling the effect contents of the pachinko gaming machine 100. The effect control unit 202a has a function of controlling the entire effect control unit 202 based on various commands received from the main control unit 201. The image / sound control unit 202b has a function of controlling the image and sound based on the instruction content from the production control unit 202a. The lamp controller 202c has a function of controlling lighting of lamps provided on the game board 101, the frame member 115, and the like.

(2-1. Director of Production)
First, the configuration of the production control unit 202a will be described. The production control unit 202a includes a CPU 241, a ROM 242, a RAM 243, a real-time clock (hereinafter referred to as "RTC") 244, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  CPU241 performs the process which determines the content of production based on the various programs previously memorize | stored in ROM242. The ROM 242 stores various programs necessary for the CPU 241 to execute the above processing. The RAM 243 functions as a work area for the CPU 241. The data set in the RAM 243 when the CPU 241 executes various programs is output to the image / sound controller 202b and the lamp controller 202c at a predetermined timing.

  The production control unit 202a uses the RAM 243 as a work area while the CPU 241 executes various programs such as a production selection program, a scenario selection determination program, a scenario selection program, and a display control program stored in the ROM 242. It functions to control the entire control unit 202. The ROM 242 stores a plurality of a series of notice groups in which a plurality of notice images are combined to develop the notice image in stages.

  The effect selection program is a program that selects the effect contents according to the variation time of the special symbol that is varied as the jackpot determination result. The scenario selection determination program is a program for determining whether or not to use a scenario in accordance with the variation effect. The scenario selection program is a program for selecting one notice effect pattern from the notice effect patterns stored in the ROM 242 and associated with the notice images used for each stage during the change effect according to the change effect. . The display control program is a program for displaying a preview image sequentially with the progress of each stage during the variation effect using the selected preview effect pattern.

  The RTC 244 counts and outputs real time. The RTC 244 continues timing operation by a backup power source (not shown) even when the power of the pachinko gaming machine 100 is cut off. Note that the RTC 244 is not limited to the example in which the RTC 244 is arranged in the production control unit 202 such as the production control unit 202a, but may be arranged in the main control unit 201. Further, the RTC 244 may be arranged alone.

  In addition, an effect button 119 is connected to the effect control unit 202a, and data indicating that the effect button 119 has been operated (pressed) from the player is input. In addition, a cross key 120 is connected to the production control unit 202a, and data corresponding to the key selected by the player is input.

(2-2. Image / Audio Control Unit)
Next, the configuration of the image / sound controller 202b will be described. The image / sound control unit 202b includes a CPU 251, a ROM 252, a RAM 253, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like.

  The CPU 251 executes image and sound generation and output processing. The ROM 252 stores a program for image and sound generation and output processing, various image data such as background images, effect design images, and character images necessary for the processing, various sound data, and the like. The RAM 253 functions as a work area for the CPU 251 and temporarily stores image data to be displayed on the image display unit 104 and audio data to be output from the speaker 254.

  That is, the image / sound control unit 202b executes various programs such as a preview image display program stored in the ROM 252 while the CPU 251 uses the RAM 253 as a work area, and thereby based on an instruction from the production control unit 202a. Functions to control image and sound. The notice image display program is a program that selects and outputs a notice image such as a character image to be displayed on the image display unit 104 based on the effect command from the effect control unit 202a.

  Further, the CPU 251 executes various image processing and audio processing such as background image display processing, effect design variation / stop display processing, and preview image processing based on the instruction content instructed from the effect supervising unit 202a. At this time, the CPU 251 reads image data and audio data necessary for processing from the ROM 252 and writes them in the RAM 253.

  Image data such as background images, effect design images, and preview images written in the RAM 253 is output to the image display unit 104 connected to the image / sound control unit 202b and superimposed on the display screen of the image display unit 104. Is displayed. The effect design image is displayed so as to be seen in front of the background image. Further, the preview image is displayed so as to be seen in front of the effect symbol image. When the background image and the effect design image overlap at the same position, the effect design image is given priority by referring to the Z value of the Z buffer of each image data by a known hidden surface removal method such as the Z buffer method. To be stored in the RAM 253.

  The audio data written in the RAM 253 is output to the speaker 254 connected to the image / audio control unit 202b, and audio based on the audio data is output from the speaker 254.

(2-3. Lamp control unit)
Next, the configuration of the lamp control unit 202c will be described. The lamp control unit 202c includes a CPU 261, a ROM 262, a RAM 263, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The CPU 261 executes processing for turning on the lamp and the like. The ROM 262 stores various programs necessary for executing the above processing, control data used for lamp lighting necessary for the processing, and the like. The RAM 263 functions as a work area for the CPU 261.

  The lamp control unit 202c is connected to the effect light unit (frame lamp) 116, the panel lamp 264, and the effect agent 265, and outputs data for lighting control and data for operation control. Thereby, the lamp control unit 202c functions to control the lighting of the lamps provided on the game board 101, the frame member 115, and the like, and the operation of the effect actor 265.

  The production control unit 202 is composed of different boards using the production control unit 202a, the image / sound control unit 202b, and the lamp control unit 202c, but these are incorporated on the same printed board. It may be configured. However, even when they are incorporated on the same printed circuit board, their functions are assumed to be independent.

(3. Prize ball control unit)
Next, the configuration of the winning ball control unit 203 will be described. The prize ball control unit 203 includes a CPU 281, a ROM 282, a RAM 283, an input / output interface (I / O) (not shown), and the like. The CPU 281 executes a prize ball control process for controlling a prize ball to be paid out. The ROM 282 stores a program necessary for the processing. The RAM 283 functions as a work area for the CPU 281.

  The prize ball control unit 203 is connected to a payout unit (payout drive motor) 291, a launch unit 292, a fixed position detection SW 293, a payout ball detection SW 294, a ball presence detection SW 295, and a full tank detection SW 296. .

  The prize ball control unit 203 controls the payout unit 291 to pay out the number of prize balls at the time of winning. The payout unit 291 includes a motor for paying out a predetermined number from the game ball storage unit. Specifically, the winning ball control unit 203 receives the winning game balls that have won the winning units 291 (the first starting port 105, the second starting port 106, the big winning port 109, the normal winning port 110) with respect to the payout unit 291. Control to pay out the corresponding number of prize balls.

  In addition, the prize ball control unit 203 detects the operation of launching the game ball with respect to the launch unit 292 and controls the launch of the game ball. The launcher 292 launches a game ball for a game, and includes a sensor that detects a game operation by the player, a solenoid that launches the game ball, and the like. When the prize ball control unit 203 detects a game operation by the sensor of the launch unit 292, the prize ball control unit 203 intermittently fires a game ball by driving a solenoid or the like in response to the detected game operation, thereby playing the game area 103 of the game board 101. A game ball is sent out.

  The prize ball control unit 203 is connected to various detection units for detecting the state of the game ball to be paid out, and detects the payout state for the prize ball. These detection units include a fixed position detection SW293, a payout ball detection SW294, a ball presence detection SW295, a full tank detection SW296, and the like. For example, the prize ball control unit 203 realizes its function by a prize ball control board.

  Further, a board external information terminal board 297 is connected to the main control unit 201, and various information executed by the main control unit 201 can be output to the outside. The prize ball control unit 203 is also connected to the frame external information terminal board 298, and can output various information executed by the prize ball control unit 203 to the outside.

  The main control unit 201, the effect control unit 202, and the prize ball control unit 203 having the above-described configuration are provided on different printed boards (main control board, effect control board, and prize ball control board). For example, the prize ball control unit 203 can be provided on the same printed circuit board as the main control unit 201.

(Functional configuration of pachinko gaming machine 100)
Next, the functional configuration of the pachinko gaming machine 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the pachinko gaming machine. In FIG. 3, the pachinko gaming machine 100 includes a main control unit 201 and a production control unit 202a. The main control unit 201 has a special symbol variation unit 301. The special symbol variation unit 301 variably stops the jackpot determination result as a special symbol. The special symbol changing unit 301 is realized by the CPU 211 of the main control unit 201. That is, the main control unit 201 executes the various programs stored in the ROM 212, thereby realizing the function of the special symbol variation unit 301.

  The production control unit 202a includes a variation production unit 302 and a notice production unit 303. The variation effect unit 302 varies the effect symbol in accordance with the variation time of the special symbol that is variably stopped by the special symbol variation unit 301 and develops the effect content in stages until the special symbol is stopped. Specifically, the “stage” is the same or related to the pre-reach fluctuation stage for changing the three effect symbols from the first effect symbol to the third effect symbol, the first effect symbol, and the second effect symbol. There are a normal reach stage in which only the third stage design is changed after stopping at the stage design, a development reach stage in which the reach stage is further developed, and the like.

  In addition to the above, “stage” includes, for example, each pseudo variation such as pseudo first, pseudo second, pseudo third, and pseudo fourth in the pseudo continuous variation effect. In the pseudo continuous variation effect, for example, when the second effect symbol is stopped, a slip effect different from the normal stop effect is performed, and the third symbol is made to stop at a predetermined effect symbol (chance symbol). By repeating the pseudo stop a plurality of times, it is an effect that is shown in a plurality of times of changes in the effect symbols with respect to a single special symbol change. The pseudo continuous variation effect is an effect that has a higher expectation level for a jackpot as the number of times of pseudo variation increases, that is, the effect of the fourth pseudo change. Furthermore, the “stage” can be, for example, a time range such as 4 seconds after the start of the fluctuation, the next 4 seconds, and the next 4 seconds in the fluctuation before reach or each pseudo fluctuation.

  The notice effect unit 303 displays a notice image that suggests the degree of expectation for the jackpot at each stage during the change effect by the change effect unit 302. The notice image displays a character image, a background image, a rectangular window image, a step-up image that gradually enlarges the window image, a character image such as a dialogue, a cut-in image into which a specific image is inserted, and a group of character images. Group notice images, etc. The notice effect unit 303 includes a storage unit 311, a determination unit 312, a selection unit 313, and a display control unit 314.

  The storage unit 311 stores a plurality of notice effect patterns (hereinafter referred to as “scenarios”) each associated with a notice image used for each stage during the change effect in association with the change effect. For example, the scenario is a variation effect that is a big hit in the development reach, a character image A that is displayed at the first fluctuation stage before the reach, a background image B that is displayed at the next normal reach stage, and a next development reach stage. This is associated with the window image C to be displayed. The storage unit 311 is realized by the ROM 242 of the production control unit 202a.

  The determination unit 312 determines whether or not to use the scenario stored in the storage unit 311 when the variation effect performed by the variation effect unit 302 is a predetermined variation effect. Specifically, the determination unit 322 determines whether to use a scenario by lottery. The winning ratio by lottery may be an arbitrary value set in advance. For example, the winning ratio may be set higher for a variation effect having a higher expectation level for the jackpot.

  When the determination unit 322 determines that the scenario is to be used, the selection unit 313 selects one scenario corresponding to the changing effect from the scenarios stored in the storage unit 311, while the determination unit 322 selects the scenario. When it is determined not to use, a notice image at each stage is selected by lottery. The display control unit 314 uses the scenario or the preview image selected by the selection unit 313 to display the preview image sequentially for each stage as each stage during the changing performance progresses.

  Note that the variation effect unit 302, the notice effect unit 303, the determination unit 312, the selection unit 313, and the display control unit 314 are realized by the CPU 241 of the effect control unit 202a. That is, the CPU 241 of the production control unit 202a implements each unit by executing various programs.

(Outline of this embodiment)
Next, an outline of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4A is a flowchart illustrating an outline of the present embodiment. In FIG. 4A, the effect control unit 202 determines whether or not it is a change start (step S401). If it is not the start of fluctuation (step S401: No), the process is terminated as it is. When it is a change start (step S401: Yes), the change production according to the change of the special symbol is selected (step S402).

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the selected variation is a specific variation effect (step S403). If it is not a specific variation effect (step S403: No), the process is terminated as it is. When it is a specific variation effect (step S403: Yes), the scenario lottery determination of whether to use a scenario is performed (step S404). As a result of the scenario lottery determination, when a scenario effect is executed (step S405: Yes), one scenario is selected from a plurality of scenarios stored in advance (step S406).

  In step S405, if the scenario effect is not executed as a result of the scenario lottery determination (step S405: No), the preliminary image for each stage is drawn (step S407). Thereafter, the preview image of the scenario or the preview image of each stage selected by lottery is displayed (step S408), and the process is terminated.

(Example scenario)
Next, an example of a scenario will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4B is an explanatory diagram of an example scenario. An explanatory diagram 420 shown in FIG. 4B shows a preview image at each stage of the variation effect. More specifically, the stage 1 of the fluctuation effect is the pre-reach fluctuation stage, the stage 2 of the fluctuation effect is the normal reach stage, the stage 3 of the fluctuation effect is the development reach stage, and the stage 4 of the fluctuation effect is the revival reach stage. The preview image displayed at each stage is not selected by lottery at each fluctuation stage, but is stored in advance as a scenario corresponding to a fluctuation effect.

  In the fluctuation stage before reach in the fluctuation effect shown in the explanatory diagram 420, for example, three step-up images are displayed as the notice image. The step-up image is displayed in the range of 1 to 3 times, and the greater the number of times, the higher the expectation for jackpot. By displaying the three step-up images, the player knows that the change before reach is a change with high expectation for the jackpot.

  In the normal reach stage, for example, three serif images are displayed as the preview image. The serif image is displayed in a range of 1 to 3, and the greater the number of times, the higher the expectation for jackpot. By displaying the three serif images, the player knows that the normal reach is a highly anticipated variation for the jackpot.

  In the development reach stage, for example, a small number of group notice images are displayed as the notice image. As the group notice image, one of small, medium and many is selected, and the greater the number of groups, the higher the degree of expectation for the big hit. By displaying a small number of group preview images, the player knows that the development reach variation is a variation with low expectation for the jackpot. In this development reach, for example, an effect that does not result in a big hit, such as losing a battle with an enemy, is performed.

  In the revival reach stage, for example, a cut-in image of a large screen is displayed as a preview image. One of small, medium, and large is selected as the cut-in image, and the larger the cut-in image, the higher the degree of expectation for the big hit. By displaying the cut-in image on the large screen, the player knows that the revival reach variation is a variation with high expectation for the jackpot. In this revival reach, the three effect symbols of the first effect symbol to the third effect symbol stop at the same effect symbol, and an effect indicating that the jackpot is won is performed.

  As described above, by storing the preview image as a scenario corresponding to the variation effect in advance, it is possible to provide a series of connections to the preview image. Thereby, the player can guess the expectation degree with respect to jackpot from a series of notice images.

(Timer interrupt processing)
Next, timer interrupt processing performed by the main control unit 201 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a timer interrupt process performed by the main control unit 201. The timer interrupt process is a process that interrupts the main control process executed by the main control unit 201 every predetermined period (for example, 4 ms) during the power supply period.

  In FIG. 5, the CPU 211 of the main control unit 201 performs a random number update process (step S501). The random number update process is a process for updating each random number by incrementing each random number, such as a jackpot random number, a jackpot symbol random number, a reach random number, or the like.

  After that, the first start port 105 or the second start port 106 is subjected to a switch process at the time of winning a prize (step S502). In the switch process, a game ball is detected by a first start port SW221 or a second start port SW222, which will be described later with reference to FIG. 6, or a gate SW process that acquires a random number every time a game ball is detected by the gate SW223. There is a start port SW process for acquiring a random number every time.

  Thereafter, symbol processing is performed (step S503). The symbol processing includes special symbol processing which will be described later with reference to FIG. Furthermore, an electric accessory process is performed (step S504). The electric accessory process includes an electric chew process and a big prize opening process. Thereafter, a prize ball process is performed (step S505), and these output processes are performed (step S506).

(Start-up SW processing)
Next, the start port SW process performed by the main control unit 201 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the start port SW process performed by the main control unit 201. The start port SW process is a process content included in the switch process shown in step S502 of FIG.

  In FIG. 6, the CPU 211 of the main control unit 201 determines whether or not the first start port SW221 of the first start port 105 is ON (step S601). When the first start port SW221 is OFF (step S601: No), the process proceeds to step S607. When the first start port SW221 is ON (step S601: Yes), it is determined whether or not the count value U1 of the first start port detection counter that has counted the number of detections of the first start port SW221 is smaller than “4”. (Step S602).

  When the count value U1 is “4” (step S602: No), the process proceeds to step S607. When the count value U1 is smaller than “4” (step S602: Yes), “1” is added to the count value U1 (step S603). Then, the random number is acquired, and the acquired random number is stored in the RAM 213 (step S604). The random number is a hit random number, a design random number, a reach random number, or the like. The hit random number is a random number for determining any one of big hit, small hit, and loss. For example, one hit random number is randomly obtained from 300 random numbers from “0” to “299”. .

  The design random number is a random number for determining the type of hit (per probability variation length, per normal length, per latent probability per short, per unit of perceived shortness, per per unit of short time). One design random number is randomly obtained from the random number. The reach random number is a random number for determining whether or not a reach effect is performed. For example, one reach random number is randomly acquired from 250 random numbers “0” to “249”.

  Each acquired random number is stored in the RAM 213. The RAM 213 has a storage area for four reserved balls by winning the first start port 105. In this storage area, information indicating that the winning is made to the first starting port 105, winning random numbers, symbol random numbers, reach random number information, and the like are stored.

  Thereafter, a preliminary determination process is performed (step S605). In the pre-determination process, it is determined whether or not it is a winning using the winning random number acquired in step S604. In the prior determination process, in addition to the hit determination, symbol determination using a symbol random number or reach determination using a reach random number is performed. Thereafter, a special 1 reserved ball number increase command is set to indicate that the number of reserved balls has increased due to winning at the first starting port 105 (step S606).

  Then, it is determined whether or not the second start port SW222 of the second start port 106 is ON (step S607). If the second start port SW222 is OFF (step S607: No), the process is terminated as it is. If the second start port SW222 is ON (step S607: Yes), it is determined whether or not the count value U2 of the second start port detection counter that has counted the number of detections of the second start port SW222 is smaller than “4”. (Step S608).

  When the count value U2 is “4” (step S608: No), the processing is ended as it is. When the count value U2 is smaller than “4” (step S608: Yes), “1” is added to the count value U2 (step S609). Then, each random number is acquired, and the acquired random number is stored in the RAM 213 (step S610). The RAM 213 has a storage area for four reserved balls by winning the second starting port 106. In this storage area, information indicating that the winning is made to the second starting port 106, winning random numbers, symbol random numbers, reach random number information, and the like are stored.

  Thereafter, a preliminary determination process is performed (step S611). In the pre-determination process, the winning random number acquired in step S611 is used to determine whether or not it is a win, symbol determination using a symbol random number, and reach determination using a reach random number. Thereafter, a special 2 reserved ball number increase command is set to indicate that the number of reserved balls has increased due to winning at the second starting port 106 (step S612).

(Special symbol processing)
Next, the special symbol process included in the symbol process shown in step S503 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing special symbol processing performed by the main control unit 201.

  In FIG. 7, the CPU 211 of the main control unit 201 determines whether or not the winning game flag is ON (step S701). The winning game flag is a flag that is set in the stop process shown in step S714. Specifically, the winning game flag is set to ON when the stopped special symbol is a big hit, or is stopped. There is a small hit flag that is set to ON when the special symbol is small hit.

  If the winning game flag is ON (step S701: Yes), the process is terminated as it is. If the winning game flag is OFF (step S701: No), it is determined whether or not the special symbol is changing (step S702). If the special symbol is changing (step S702: Yes), step S711 is performed. Migrate to If the special symbol is not fluctuating (step S702: No), is the count value U2 of the second start port detection counter indicating the number of special 2 reserved balls due to winning at the second start port 106 equal to or greater than "1"? It is determined whether or not (step S703).

  When the count value U2 is “1” or more (step S703: Yes), “1” is subtracted from the count value U2 (step S704), and the process proceeds to step S707. In step S703, if the count value U2 is not equal to or greater than “1” (step S703: No), that is, if “U2 = 0”, the first start as the number of specially held balls by winning the first start port 105 It is determined whether or not the count value U1 of the mouth detection counter is “1” or more (step S705).

  If the count value U1 is not equal to or greater than “1” (step S705: No), that is, if “U1 = 0”, the process ends. When the count value U1 is “1” or more (step S705: Yes), “1” is subtracted from the count value U1 (step S706), and the process proceeds to step S707.

  In step S707, a hit determination process is performed (step S707). The winning determination process is a process for determining whether or not the winning random number acquired when the game ball wins the first starting opening 105 or the second starting opening 106 matches a preset winning random number. .

  Note that, as shown in steps S703 to S706, the special 2 reserved ball due to winning in the second start port 106 is prioritized and digested over the special 1 reserved ball due to winning in the first starting port 105. ing. Thereafter, variation pattern selection processing is performed (step S708). This variation pattern selection process is a process of selecting a variation pattern of a special symbol in accordance with the determination result of the hit determination process, and details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Thereafter, a change start command is set in the RAM 213 (step S709). Furthermore, the special symbol change is started (step S710). Then, it is determined whether or not the variation time selected by the variation pattern selection process has elapsed (step S711). If the fluctuation time has not elapsed (step S711: No), the processing is terminated as it is.

  When the fluctuation time has elapsed (step S711: Yes), a fluctuation stop command is set (step S712), and the special symbol fluctuation is stopped (step S713). Thereafter, the stop process is executed (step S714), and the process ends. In the stop process, when the special symbol that is stopped indicates a win, the win flag indicating that it is a win is set to ON, or the short time flag indicating the short-time gaming state is set to the number of remaining games. This is a process of turning OFF in response.

(Change pattern selection process)
Next, the variation pattern selection process shown in step S708 of FIG. 7 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern selection process performed by the main control unit 201.

  In FIG. 8, the CPU 211 of the main control unit 201 determines whether or not the winning includes the big hit and the small hit as a result of the hit determination process (step S801). If it is a win (step S801: Yes), either a big hit variation pattern table or a small hit variation pattern table is set according to the hit type (step S802). Details of the jackpot variation pattern table will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Then, a variation pattern random number determination process is performed using the set table (step S803). As a result of the variation pattern random number determination process, the determined variation pattern is set (step S804), and the process ends. In step S801, if it is not a win (step S801: No), a reach determination process for determining the presence or absence of reach is performed (step S805).

  And it is determined whether it is a reach (step S806). If it is reach (step S806: Yes), the reach variation pattern table is set (step S807), and the process proceeds to step S803. Details of the reach variation pattern table will be described later with reference to FIG. When it is not reach (step S806: No), the variation pattern table for loss is set (step S808), and the process proceeds to step S803. The details of the loss variation pattern table will be described later with reference to FIG.

(Example of variation pattern table for jackpots)
Next, an example of the jackpot variation pattern table will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9A is an explanatory diagram of an example of the big hit variation pattern table. 9-1, the jackpot variation pattern table 910 includes a plurality of variation patterns, a variation time required for each variation pattern, and a ratio at which each variation pattern is selected. The command is for specifying the variation pattern on the production control unit 202a side, and is transmitted to the production control unit 202a.

  As a specific example, the rate at which the variation pattern “R1” with a variation time of 20 seconds is selected is 1/249. When this variation pattern “R1” is selected, the variation effect selected on the production control unit 202a side is the normal reach shown in the reach contents in parentheses. Further, the rate at which the variation pattern “R5” with a variation time of 65 seconds is selected is 8/249. When this variation pattern “R5” is selected, the variation effect is development reach 1 + recovery reach 2 shown in parentheses.

  The rate at which the variation pattern “T1” with a variation time of 71 seconds is selected is 12/249. When this variation pattern “T1” is selected, the variation effect is pseudo triple + development reach 1 shown in parentheses. The “pseudo triple” means that the effect design is stopped three times. For example, in the quasi-continuous variation effect, a preview image is displayed that suggests that there is a possibility of developing into a quasi-continuous variation effect before a predetermined effect symbol (chance) stops. In the jackpot variation pattern table 910, the longer the variation time is, the higher the ratio is. That is, in the jackpot, the longer the variation time is, the easier it is to select.

(Example of reach variation pattern table)
Next, an example of the reach variation pattern table will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9B is an explanatory diagram of an example of a reach variation pattern table. 9-2, the reach variation pattern table 920 includes a plurality of variation patterns, a variation time required for each variation pattern, and a ratio at which each variation pattern is selected. The command is for specifying the variation pattern on the production control unit 202a side, and is transmitted to the production control unit 202a.

  In the reach variation pattern table 920, variation patterns are stored in the same manner as the variation patterns stored in the jackpot variation pattern table 910 shown in FIG. In the variation patterns S1 to S6 shown in the reach variation pattern table 920, the longer the variation time during reach production, the lower the ratio to be selected, that is, the longer the variation time, the less likely it is to be selected. By using the jackpot variation pattern table 910 and the reach variation pattern table 920 shown in FIG. 9A, in the reach production, the longer the variation pattern variation time, the higher the expectation for the jackpot. The shorter the change time, the lower the expectation for jackpot.

(Example of variation pattern table for loss)
Next, an example of the variation pattern table for loss will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9C is an explanatory diagram of an example of the variation pattern table for loss. 9-3, the variation pattern table 930 for loss includes a plurality of variation patterns, the number of reserved balls, the variation time required for each variation pattern, and the ratio at which each variation pattern is selected. The number of held balls indicates the number of held balls stored at the start of fluctuation.

  As a specific example, when the number of reserved balls is “1” or “2”, a variation pattern of 12 seconds is selected. Further, when the number of reserved balls is “3”, a variation pattern of 8 seconds is selected. Furthermore, when the number of reserved balls is “4”, a variation pattern of 3 seconds is selected. Thus, when the number of reserved balls is large, a quick game is enabled by shortening the variation time.

(Production timer interrupt processing performed by the Production Management Department)
Next, the effect timer interruption process performed by the effect control unit 202a of the effect control unit 202 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an effect timer interruption process performed by the effect supervising unit 202a. This effect timer interruption process is a process in which the effect supervising unit 202a performs an interruption operation to the main effect control process performed by the effect supervising unit 202a every predetermined period (for example, 4 ms) during activation.

  In FIG. 10, the CPU 241 of the production control unit 202a executes a command reception process that is performed when a command is received from the main control unit 201 (step S1001). The command reception process will be described later with reference to FIG. Thereafter, a command transmission process for transmitting a command to the image / audio control unit 202b or the lamp control unit 202c is executed (step S1002), and the process ends.

(Command reception processing)
Next, the details of the command reception process performed by the production control unit 202a shown in step S1001 of FIG. 10 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing command reception processing performed by the production control unit 202a. In FIG. 11, the CPU 241 of the production control unit 202a determines whether or not a reserve ball number increase command has been received from the main control unit 201 (step S1101).

  The retained ball number increase command is a command set in the start port SW process of the main control unit 201 (see step S606 and step S612 in FIG. 6). When the reservation ball number increase command is not received (step S1101: No), the process proceeds to step S1104. When the reserve ball number increase command is received (step S1101: Yes), a reserve ball number addition process for adding the reserve ball number is executed (step S1102).

  Then, the reserved ball number command indicating that the number of reserved balls has increased is set in the image / sound controller 202b and the lamp controller 202c (step S1103). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not a variation start command indicating the variation start of the special symbol has been received (step S1104). The change start command is a command set in the special symbol processing by the main control unit 201 (see step S709 in FIG. 7).

  When the change start command is not received (step S1104: No), the process proceeds to step S1106. When the change start command is received (step S1104: Yes), the effect selection process is executed (step S1105). Details of the effect selection process will be described later with reference to FIG. 12, but information on the variation time of the special symbol obtained by analyzing the variation start command is used and has the same reproduction time as this variation time. This is done by selecting a production.

  Thereafter, it is determined whether or not a change stop command for stopping the effect symbol has been received (step S1106). The change stop command is a command indicating change stop of the special symbol, and is a command set in the special symbol process of the main control unit 201 (see step S712 in FIG. 7).

  When the fluctuation stop command is not received (step S1106: No), the process is terminated as it is. When the change stop command is received (step S1106: Yes), the process during end of change effect is executed (step S1107), and the process ends. In addition, the process during the end of the variation effect is a process of ending the effect mode according to the gaming state according to the number of times of change.

(Direction selection process)
Next, details of the effect selection process shown in step S1105 of FIG. 11 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an effect selection process performed by the effect control unit 202a. In FIG. 12, the CPU 241 of the production control unit 202a analyzes the change start command (step S1201). Specifically, in step S1201, analysis is performed on the gaming state of the main control unit 201, whether it is a win or not, whether it is a reach, whether to stop the chance eye, or the like.

  Then, the reserved ball number subtraction process for subtracting the reserved ball number is executed (step S1202). Thereafter, a variation effect pattern selection process for selecting an effect symbol and selecting a variation effect pattern according to each mode is executed (step S1203). In the variation effect pattern selection process, a variation effect pattern selection table is used, which will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Thereafter, a notice determination process is performed using a notice determination table described later with reference to FIG. 14 (step S1204). As a result of the notice determination process, when there is no notice (step S1205: No), the process proceeds to step S1212. As a result of the notice determination process, if there is a notice (step S1205: Yes), it is determined whether or not it is a specific variation pattern for performing a reach effect (step S1206). The specific variation pattern that performs the reach effect is a variation pattern that is associated with a scenario that is a preview image in advance.

  When it is a specific variation pattern (step S1206: Yes), a scenario lottery determination process for determining whether or not to select a scenario is executed (step S1207). In the scenario lottery determination process, a scenario lottery determination table described later with reference to FIG. 15 is used. When scenario lottery is executed as a result of the scenario lottery determination process (step S1208: Yes), it is determined whether or not the variation pattern is a jackpot variation pattern (step S1209).

  When the variation pattern is a jackpot (step S1209: Yes), that is, when the variation pattern is the variation pattern R1 to R6, T1, T2, or the like of FIG. 9-1, the jackpot scenario selection table described later with reference to FIG. Is set (step S1210), and a scenario selection process for selecting a scenario is executed (step S1211). Thereafter, a change effect start command indicating start of change of the effect symbol is set (step S1212), and the process ends.

  In step S1209, when the variation pattern is a reach loss variation pattern (step S1209: No), that is, when the variation pattern is the variation pattern S1 to S6, U1, U2, or the like of FIG. The reach-losing scenario selection table is set (step S1213), and the process proceeds to step S1211.

  In step S1206, when it is not a specific variation pattern that performs reach production (step S1206: No), a normal notice selection process is executed (step S1214), and the process proceeds to step S1212. In the normal notice selection process, a notice image is selected at each stage using a notice image selection table which will be described later with reference to FIGS. In step S1208, when the scenario lottery is not executed as a result of the scenario lottery determination process (step S1208: No), the process proceeds to step S1214.

(Example of variation production pattern selection table)
Next, an example of the variation effect pattern selection table will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the variation effect pattern selection table. In FIG. 13, a variable effect pattern selection table 1300 associates a command with an effect pattern for each loss or jackpot. The command is transmitted from the main control unit 201. In each command, “h” indicates a command at the time of loss, “s” and “u” indicate commands at the time of reach loss, and “r” and “t” indicate commands at the time of jackpot (FIG. 9- 1 to FIG. 9-3).

  As a specific example, when a command “h1” is received from the main control unit 201, an effect pattern of “12-second normal loss” is selected. Further, when the command “s5” is received from the main control unit 201, an effect pattern of reach loss of “Development reach 1 + Recovery reach 2” is selected. In addition, when the “r5” command is received from the main control unit 201, an effect pattern of “development reach 1 + resurrection reach 2” that develops a jackpot is selected.

  In the variation effect pattern selection table 1300, one effect pattern is associated with one command from the main control unit 201. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a plurality of effect patterns are associated with one command. In association with each other, one effect pattern may be selected from a plurality of effect patterns by lottery.

(Example of notice determination table)
Next, an example of the notice determination table used in the notice determination process (step S1204 in FIG. 12) will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the notice determination table. In FIG. 14, the notice determination table 1400 indicates the ratio at which the presence / absence of the notice effect indicating whether or not to perform the notice effect is selected.

  Specifically, in the case of a loss, the rate at which the notice effect is performed is “30/100”. In the case of reach lose, the ratio at which the notice effect is performed is “70/100”. In the case of a big hit, the rate at which the notice effect is performed is “90/100”. Thus, the higher the degree of expectation for the jackpot, the easier it is for the notice effect to be performed.

  Note that in the notice determination table 1400, the ratio of the notice effect to be performed is different for each “losing time”, “reach loss time”, and “big hit time”, but it may not be different. Specifically, the ratio at which the notice effect is performed may be set to, for example, “50/100” regardless of “at the time of loss”, “at the time of reach loss”, and “at the time of big hit”.

(Example of scenario lottery determination table)
Next, an example of the scenario lottery determination table used in the scenario lottery determination process (step S1207 in FIG. 12) will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the scenario lottery determination table. In FIG. 15, a scenario lottery determination table 1500 indicates whether or not a scenario is selected indicating whether or not a scenario lottery is to be performed, and the rate at which the scenario is selected. Specifically, the rate at which the scenario is selected is “70/100”.

  Further, the ratio of not performing the scenario lottery is “30/100”. As described above, a scenario is easily selected at the time of a change in a specific change pattern in which the scenario is associated in advance.

(Summary of notice production at the time of reach production)
Next, the outline of the notice effect at the time of the reach effect will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of the notice effect at the time of the reach effect. In FIG. 16, an explanatory diagram 1600 shows a preview image at each stage. When the notice effect is performed, for example, in stage 1 (variation before reach), for example, any one of step-up, speech, and airplane is displayed. In stage 2 (normal reach), for example, any one of cut-in, group, and background is displayed. In stage 3 (development reach), for example, one of the aura to be displayed around the hero and the weapon equipped with the hero are displayed. In stage 4 (resurrection reach), for example, any one of the flag displayed on the background and the flag that closes the screen is displayed. A notice effect is performed by such a combination of notice images.

  In this embodiment, for simplification of explanation, one notice image is displayed at each stage. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a plurality of notice images are displayed at each stage. It is also possible to do. Specifically, it is possible to display step-up and an airplane in stage 1.

(Example of scenario selection table)
Next, an example of the scenario selection table will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 and 18. FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram of an example of the jackpot scenario selection table. FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a reach / losing scenario selection table. The jackpot scenario selection table is a table set in step S1210 of FIG. 12, and the reach lose scenario selection table is a table set in step S1213 of FIG.

  In FIG. 17 and FIG. 18, the jackpot scenario selection table 1700 and the reach lose scenario selection table 1800 are made up of a command for determining a fluctuating effect and a scenario. The scenario is set in advance for a preview image to be displayed at each stage of the variation effect. In the jackpot scenario selection table 1700, a specific example will be described. In the case of “normal reach” scenario A corresponding to the command r1, three step-up images with high expectation are displayed in the pre-reach fluctuation that is stage 1. Then, a large-screen cut-in image with high expectation is displayed in the normal reach fluctuation of stage 2. Thereafter, the three effect symbols are stopped and the jackpot is determined.

  Further, in the case of scenario E of “Development reach 1 + Recovery reach 2” corresponding to the command r5, a zebra airplane image with high expectation is displayed in the pre-reach fluctuation that is stage 1, and the expectation degree in normal reach fluctuation that is stage 2 Displays a background image of a high night. Further, a white aura with a low expectation level is displayed in the development reach fluctuation of stage 3. In the development reach, for example, there is a production that does not result in a big hit, such as losing a battle with an enemy. In the stage 4 revival reach change, the zebra habit image is displayed. Thereafter, the three effect symbols are stopped and the jackpot is determined.

  By displaying a series of preview images based on such a scenario, the player can relate the series of preview images and the jackpot and guess the jackpot.

  In the scenario selection table for reach loses 1800, a specific example will be described. In the case of the “normal reach” scenario a corresponding to the command s1, one step-up image with a low expectation level is displayed in the pre-reach fluctuation that is stage 1. Then, a small-screen cut-in image with a low expectation level is displayed in the normal reach fluctuation of stage 2. Thereafter, the three effect symbols are stopped and the loss is confirmed.

  Further, in the case of scenario e of “Development reach 1 + Recovery reach 2” corresponding to the command s5, a red airplane image with a medium expectation level is displayed in the pre-reach fluctuation that is stage 1, and the expectation degree in the normal reach fluctuation that is stage 2 Displays the background image of the evening in. Further, a white aura with a low expectation level is displayed in the development reach fluctuation of stage 3. In the development reach, for example, there is a production that does not result in a big hit, such as losing a battle with an enemy. A red haze image is displayed in the stage 4 revival reach variation. Thereafter, the three effect symbols are stopped and the loss is confirmed.

  By displaying a series of preview images according to such a scenario, the player can associate a series of the preview images with the loss and can guess that there is a low possibility of a big hit.

(Example of production screen)
Next, an example of the effect screen will be described with reference to FIGS. 19 and 20. 19 and 20 are explanatory diagrams showing transition of the effect screen when the scenario E is used. The scenario E is used when the fluctuating production “development reach 1 + resurrection reach 2” leading to the jackpot is performed (see FIG. 17). In FIG. 19, on the effect screen 1910 of the image display unit 104, a change image 1901 of the effect symbol and a “zebra airplane” that is the notice image 1911 in the stage 1 (change before reach) are displayed. “Zebra airplane” is a preview image with high expectation for jackpot. After the effect screen 1910 is displayed, when the reach effect is developed, the effect screen 1920 is entered.

  On the effect screen 1920, “background night” which is the preview image 1921 in stage 2 (normal reach fluctuation) is displayed. “Background night” is a preview image with high expectation for the jackpot. When a predetermined time elapses after the effect screen 1920 is displayed, the effect screen 1930 is displayed. On the effect screen 1930, the weapon “Combo”, which is the notice image 1931 of the stage 3 (development reach fluctuation), is displayed. “Combo” is a preview image with low expectation for jackpot. When a predetermined time elapses after the effect screen 1930 is displayed, the effect screen 2010 is displayed. The effect screen 2010 displays an image in which the main character with a club is defeated. In the case of a change that does not carry out “revival reach”, this effect screen 2010 is displayed and then the next change is made.

  When a predetermined time elapses after the effect screen 2010 is displayed, the effect screen 2020 is displayed. On the effect screen 2020, “Zebra 襖”, which is the notice image 2021 of stage 4 (revival reach fluctuation), is displayed. “Zebra Pass” is a preview image with high expectation for jackpot. After the effect screen 2020 is displayed, when a predetermined time has elapsed, an image that opens the bag is displayed, and the effect screen 2030 is displayed.

  The effect screen 2030 displays an image in which the hero with a club wins the enemy. Thereafter, the screen shifts to the effect screen 2040. On the effect screen, the effect symbols 2041 are all stopped with the same symbol, and a message that the winner has been won is displayed. And it shifts to jackpot game.

(Example of preview image selection table)
Next, an example of the notice image selection table used in the normal notice selection process (step S1214 in FIG. 12) will be described using FIGS. 21-1 to 21-4. FIG. 21A is an explanatory diagram of an example of the preview image selection table in stage 1. FIG. 21B is an explanatory diagram of an example of the preview image selection table in stage 2. FIG. 21C is an explanatory diagram of an example of the preview image selection table in stage 3. FIG. 21D is an explanatory diagram of an example of the preview image selection table in stage 4.

  21A to 21D, the preview image selection tables 2110, 2120, 2130, and 2140 indicate the rate at which the preview image is selected. The notice image selection tables 2110, 2120, 2130, and 2140 shown in FIG. 21-1 to FIG. 21-4 select the notice image in the pre-reach fluctuation for each case of loss, reach loss, and big hit. Shows the percentage.

  Specifically, at the time of a loss that does not shift to reach production, it is easy to select a preview image with a low expectation level for the jackpot. At the time of this loss, since it does not develop to reach production, the selection of the preview image after stage 2 is not performed. At the time of reach lose, it is easy to select a preview image with a medium level of expectation for the jackpot. At the big hit time, it is easy to select a notice image with high expectation for the big hit.

  When normal notice selection processing is performed using the notice image selection tables 2110, 2120, 2130, and 2140, the notice image at each stage is selected according to the degree of expectation for the jackpot. Since it is selected by lottery each time, a series of notice images will be different each time.

  That is, in the normal notice selection process, it is difficult for the player to guess the contents of the effects that will be developed later or guess the jackpot based on a series of notice images. In this way, instead of using a scenario every time, the usual notice selection process is also performed, so that the variation of the notice effect can be increased and the scenario cannot be easily understood by the player. be able to. Therefore, it is possible to make the player guess the connection of the notice effects, and a series of notice effects can be made more important for the player.

(Applying scenario to pseudo continuous variation production)
Next, the case where a scenario is applied to a pseudo continuous variation effect will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of the notice effect in the pseudo continuous variation effect. In FIG. 22, an explanatory diagram 2200 shows a preview image at each stage. Each stage shows a pseudo variation in a pseudo continuous variation effect.

  When the notice effect is performed in the pseudo continuous variation effect, for example, in stage 1 (the first pseudo time), for example, any one of step-up, serif, and airplane is displayed. Similarly, in step 2 (pseudo second time) to step 4 (pseudo fourth time), for example, any one of step-up, serif, and airplane is displayed. A notice effect is performed by such a combination of notice images.

(Example of scenario selection table for pseudo continuous variation production)
Next, an example of the scenario selection table in the pseudo continuous variation effect will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram of an example of the jackpot pseudo-continuous scenario selection table. FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a reach-losing simulated continuous scenario selection table. The jackpot pseudo-continuous scenario selection table is a table set in step S1210 of FIG. 12, and the reach lose pseudo-simultaneous scenario selection table is a table set in step S1213 of FIG.

  In FIG. 23 and FIG. 24, the jackpot pseudo-continuous scenario selection table 2300 and the reach lose pseudo-simultaneous scenario selection table 2400 are composed of a command for determining a variation effect and a scenario. The scenario is a pre-stored notice image to be displayed at each stage of the variation effect.

  In the jackpot pseudo-continuous scenario selection table 2300, a specific example will be described. In the case of the scenario X of “pseudo triple + development reach 1” corresponding to the command t1, the degree of expectation for the jackpot in the first pseudo stage 1 The “red airplane” image in the middle is displayed, and in the second pseudo phase, which is stage 2, the “three times” image with a high expectation level for the jackpot is displayed. Furthermore, in the third pseudo stage, which is stage 3, a “zebra airplane” image having a high expectation level for the jackpot is displayed. After that, the process shifts to development reach 1 via normal reach. After the transition to normal reach, for example, a big hit announcement effect may be performed using scenario B shown in FIG. With the development reach 1, the three production symbols are stopped and the jackpot is confirmed.

  By displaying a series of preview images based on such a scenario, the player can guess the expectation for the continuation of the pseudo continuous variation effect and the jackpot based on the series of the preview images, and consequently the jackpot Can be guessed.

  In the reach-losing pseudo-continuous scenario selection table 2400, a specific example will be described. In the case of the “pseudo triple + development reach 1” scenario x corresponding to the command u1, the expectation degree for the jackpot at the first pseudo stage of stage 1 A “white airplane” image with a low is displayed, and in the second pseudo phase, which is stage 2, a “two-line” image with a medium degree of expectation for the jackpot is displayed. Further, in the third pseudo stage, which is stage 3, an “red airplane” image with a medium degree of expectation for the jackpot is displayed. After that, the process shifts to development reach 1 via normal reach. After shifting to the normal reach, for example, a notice effect for reach loss may be performed using the scenario b shown in FIG. With the development reach 1, the three effect symbols are stopped and the loss is confirmed.

  By displaying a series of preview images based on such a scenario, the player can guess the expectation for the continuation of the pseudo continuous variation effect and the jackpot based on the series of the preview images, which can be a big hit. It is possible to guess that the nature is low.

(Example of production screen)
Next, an example of the effect screen will be described with reference to FIGS. 25 and 26. 25 and 26 are explanatory diagrams showing transition of the effect screen when the scenario X is used. Note that the scenario X is used when the fluctuating effect “pseudo triple + development reach 1” leading to the jackpot is performed (see FIG. 23). In FIG. 25, on the effect screen 2510 of the image display unit 104, a change image 2501 of the effect symbol and a “red airplane” that is the preview image 2511 in the stage 1 (pseudo first time) are displayed. “Red Airplane” is a preview image with medium expectations for jackpots. When a predetermined time elapses after the effect screen 2510 is displayed, the effect screen 2520 is displayed.

  On the effect screen 2520, the third effect symbol 2521 is pseudo-stopped at the chance symbol. The pseudo stop is a slight shaking and is not an official stop. After the pseudo stop, after a predetermined time elapses, the process shifts to the pseudo second change shown in the effect screen 2530. On the effect screen 2530, “3 lines” which is the preview image 2531 in the stage 2 (pseudo second time) is displayed. “Three lines” is a preview image with high expectation for the jackpot.

  When a predetermined time elapses after the effect screen 2530 is displayed, the screen shifts to the effect screen 2540. On the effect screen 2540, the third effect symbol 2541 is pseudo-stopped with a chance symbol. After the pseudo stop, after a lapse of a predetermined time, the process shifts to a pseudo third change shown in the effect screen 2610. On the effect screen 2610, “Zebra airplane” which is the notice image 2611 of the stage 3 (pseudo third time) is displayed. “Zebra airplane” is a preview image with high expectation for jackpot. After displaying the effect screen 2610, when a predetermined time elapses, the screen shifts to the effect screen 2620.

  The effect screen 2620 shows normal reach. After this normal reach, it shifts to a development reach and reaches a big hit. In this way, even in the pseudo continuous variation effect, by performing the effect by a series of scenarios, the player can continue the pseudo continuous variation effect or guess the jackpot based on the series of preview images. The production effect can be enhanced.

  In the above description, each stage of the fluctuation effect is each reach fluctuation stage or each pseudo fluctuation stage of the pseudo-continuous fluctuation effect. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to set the stage in each time range, such as 4 seconds of the next, and the next 4 seconds. For example, at the stage of each pseudo-variation (pseudo first time), the notice image displayed for the first 4 seconds, the notice image displayed for the next 4 seconds, and the notice image displayed for the next 4 seconds are changed. You may memorize | store beforehand as a scenario corresponding to production. Even with such a configuration, the player can infer continuation of the pseudo continuous variation effect or the jackpot based on a series of the notification images, and can enhance the effect of the notification effect.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, according to the degree of expectation for the jackpot, a scenario that associates a preview image to be used for each stage during the variation presentation is selected, and the announcement presentation is performed using this scenario. Since this is done, it is possible to provide a series of connection of the preview images. That is, it is possible to make the player associate the connection between the series of the preview images and the jackpot. For example, when a certain notice image is displayed, the player can guess a notice image to be displayed next and can play a game with expectation. In this way, the player can estimate the degree of expectation for the jackpot based on a series of notice images, enhance the effect of the notice effect, and make the contents of the changing effect more interesting.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the scenario is not used, the appearance of the notice image and the contents of the notice image are determined by the normal lottery, so that the notice image at each stage may be changed each time. Yes, you can increase the variation of the notice effect. That is, the variation of the notice effect can be increased while the expectation degree for the big hit can be estimated. Therefore, it is possible to make it difficult to get tired of the notice effect, and it is possible to make the contents of the effect that is changing interesting.

100 Pachinko machines 104 Image display unit 201 Main control unit 211 CPU
212 ROM
213 RAM
202 Production control unit 202a Production control unit 202b Image / sound control unit 202c Lamp control unit 241 CPU
242 ROM
243 RAM
301 Special symbol variation part (special symbol variation means)
302 Fluctuation production part (fluctuation production means)
303 Advance notice section (notice effect means)
311 storage unit (storage means)
312 Determination unit (determination means)
313 Selection unit (selection means)
314 Display control unit (display control means)

Claims (1)

Special symbol variation means for variably stopping the determination result of the jackpot determination as a special symbol,
According to the variation time of the special symbol that is variably stopped by the special symbol variation means, the variation effect means that varies the effect symbol and develops the effect content step by step before the special symbol is stopped,
At each stage during the fluctuation production by the fluctuation production means, the notice production means for displaying a notice image suggesting the degree of expectation for the jackpot;
With
The notice effect means is
Storage means for storing a plurality of notice effect patterns each associated with the notice image used for each stage during a change effect in correspondence with the change effect;
A determination means for determining whether or not to use a notice effect pattern stored in the storage means when the change effect performed by the change effect means is a predetermined change effect;
When it is determined by the determining means that the notice effect pattern is to be used, one notice effect pattern corresponding to the variable effect is selected from the notice effect patterns stored in the storage means, while the determining means When it is determined that the notice effect pattern is not used by the selection means for selecting the notice image at each stage by lottery,
Display control means for displaying the notice image sequentially for each stage with the progress of each stage during the fluctuating effect using the notice effect pattern or notice image selected by the selection means;
A pachinko gaming machine characterized by comprising:

Images