JP2012005784A - Gaming machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a gaming machine capable of preventing fraudulent acts and also avoiding, as much as possible, determination as fraudulent acts for abnormality that can be caused in a normal game.SOLUTION: When a game ball enters any one of a plurality of winning gates installed in a game area, a prescribed number of prize balls are put out. The gaming machine is provided with: a ball entry detecting means for detecting ball entry in winning gates; a ball entry passage, through which game balls entering the winning gates can pass; an assembly section, in which game balls passing through the ball entry passage are assembled; and an assembly section detecting means for detecting game balls in the assembly section. A prescribed period is set so as to exceed the longest required time, in which a time required to reach the assembly section is the longest, in the plurality of winning gates. Then, the gaming machine is configured to put out the prize balls on the condition that the game ball is detected by the assembly section detecting means within a prescribed period after the ball entry is detected by the ball entry detecting means.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that gives a predetermined game value by entering a game ball into various winning ports including a start winning port.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a gaming machine is provided with a start winning opening, a large winning opening, and a plurality of other winning openings (for example, a normal winning opening). When a game ball enters these winning ports, the game ball is detected by a detection switch or the like provided at the winning port. Based on this, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out.

  For example, a sensor that can detect a game ball electrically or magnetically is often used as the detection switch. For this reason, there is a problem of an act of improperly acquiring the prize ball (an illegal act, a so-called goto act) by erroneously operating the detection switch by electrical means or magnetic means.

  Therefore, in the gaming machine shown in Patent Document 1, in particular, in the game state that is not a big win state with respect to the big prize opening, the detection switch for detecting the entry to the big prize opening is invalidated to obtain an illegal prize ball. Is not possible.

JP 2002-78917 A

  By the way, in the gaming machine shown in the above-mentioned patent document 1, an illegal gaming state is determined depending on whether or not it is a big hit state, and if it is an illegal gaming state, the detection switch is invalidated. There is a problem that an award winning ball that is not directly affected by whether or not, for example, a start winning a prize port or a normal winning a prize port cannot prevent an illegal prize ball from being paid out.

  In order to solve the above problem, for example, when the number of balls entered into the prize opening and the number of prize balls at the time of payout are not counted, it is judged that there was an illegal act, and an alarm etc. It is conceivable to take measures to generate

  However, if an attempt is made to judge fraudulent behavior by matching or mismatching the number of balls entered into the winning opening and the number of winning balls at the time of payout, the detection at the time of payout is inevitably because “pitch” is ahead of “payout”. The number tends to be smaller than the number detected when entering the ball. In other words, since “payout” is a process of following “entrance ball” (post-entry process), there is a possibility that the number of detections when entering the ball will temporarily increase. For example, in situations where jackpot games are played continuously, or when game balls are repeatedly entered and paid out, such as during probability-changing games, it is determined that there is a discrepancy rather than a match. May be more. For this reason, although it is playing normally, it judges that the fraudulent act was performed and performs an alarm (warning) etc. There is a problem of making the player uncomfortable.

  Therefore, in view of the above problems, the present invention can prevent an illegal act, and a game that can avoid being judged as an illegal act for an abnormality that may occur in a normal game as much as possible. The purpose is to provide a machine.

  In order to achieve the above object, a gaming machine according to the present invention is configured as follows.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, a plurality of winning holes provided in a gaming area and into which a game ball launched toward the gaming area can enter, and a predetermined number of prizes determined in advance for each of the winning holes. A gaming machine comprising: a prize ball payout means for paying out a ball; and a control means for executing payout of a prize ball by the prize ball payout means when a game ball enters the winning opening. Entry detection means for detecting that there is an entrance to the mouth, an entrance passage through which the game balls entered into the winning entrance can pass, and a gathering unit for collecting the game balls that have passed through the entrance passage; And a collecting unit detecting means for detecting a game ball at the collecting unit, and the control means is configured such that, for each of the winning ports, the gaming balls that have entered the winning port pass through the entering path and Among the time required to reach the gathering section, a predetermined period exceeding the longest required time And the payout of the prize ball by the prize ball payout means is made on condition that the game ball is detected by the gathering part detection means within the predetermined period after the entrance of the ball is detected by the entrance detection means. It is made to perform.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, the control means includes, for each of the winning holes, out of the time required for the game balls that have entered the winning hole to pass through the winning path and reach the collecting unit. And a specific period that is less than the shortest minimum required time is set, and the game ball is detected by the collective part detection unit after the specific period has elapsed since the entry of the ball was detected by the entrance detection unit The award ball is paid out by the award ball payout means.

  The invention according to claim 3 further includes prize ball abnormality occurrence notifying means for notifying that an abnormality has occurred in the payout of the prize ball, and the control means has entered the ball by the entry detection means. If no game balls are detected by the gathering unit detection means within the predetermined period after being detected, the prize ball abnormality notification means notifies the player without executing the prize ball payout by the prize ball payout means. It is made to perform.

  The invention according to claim 4 further includes a prize ball abnormality occurrence notifying means for notifying that an abnormality has occurred in the payout of the prize ball, and the control means has entered the ball by the entry detection means. When a game ball is detected by the gathering unit detection means before the specific period elapses after the detection, the prize ball abnormality occurrence notification is made without executing the prize ball payout by the prize ball payout means. The notification by means is executed.

  The invention according to claim 5 further includes a prize ball abnormality occurrence notifying means for notifying that an abnormality has occurred in the payout of the prize ball, and the control means detects the entry by the entry detection means. And when the game ball is detected by the gathering unit detecting means, the prize ball abnormality occurrence notifying means is notified without executing the prize ball paying out by the prize ball paying means. .

  The above “entrance path” is a concept including the vicinity of the entrance of the winning opening. Accordingly, at least the entrance to the entrance path is provided separately for each winning opening. However, the length (passage length) of the entrance path for each winning opening is not limited. For example, only the entrance of the winning opening may be separate, and the game balls that have passed through the entrance for each winning opening may subsequently pass the same route.

  The above “entrance detection means” may be, for example, in the vicinity of the “entrance” of the winning opening as long as it is a place where the entrance to the winning opening can be detected, or may be provided in the entrance path. Good.

  As the “predetermined period”, a time exceeding at least the longest required time is set.

  As the “specific period”, at least a time shorter than the minimum required time is set.

  According to the present invention, the game balls that have entered into any of the plurality of winning holes pass through the entrance path and reach the gathering section. When a game ball enters each winning opening, first, it is detected by the entering detection means that there has been a entering the winning opening, and then further detected by the gathering part detecting means. That is, the entrance detection means is provided between the “winning entrance” and “the place where the entrance path joins the gathering portion”.

  According to the present invention, a prize ball (game ball) is paid out only when a game ball is detected by the assembly portion detection means within “a predetermined period” after the entrance detection is detected by the entrance detection means. For this reason, in order for the winning ball to be paid out, it is necessary that the gaming ball actually enters the winning opening and reaches the gathering portion. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent an action (illegal action) that causes a malfunction so as to pay out the prize ball even though the game ball is not actually put in the winning opening.

  Here, as the “predetermined period”, a time exceeding the longest required time for which the required time for the game balls that have entered the winning opening to reach the gathering part is the longest is set. For this reason, assuming that the game ball is detected by the collective part detecting means after exceeding the above-mentioned maximum required time, such as when a game ball stays due to an obstacle such as a ball clogging in the vicinity of the entrance path or the collective part Also, the payout of prize balls will be executed. For this reason, the player may feel uncomfortable by taking measures such that all abnormalities that may occur when a game is played normally are determined to be illegal and the prize balls are not paid out. Can be avoided. Therefore, it is possible to prevent an illegal act and to avoid being judged as an illegal act as much as possible for an abnormality that may occur in a normal game.

  In addition, as the “specific period”, a time that is less than the shortest required time in which the required time until the game balls that have entered the winning opening reach the gathering portion is the shortest is set. For this reason, even in a situation where the game ball that has passed through the entrance path is detected by the gathering part detection means slightly before the shortest required time, the award ball is paid out without determining that this is illegal. be able to. Therefore, it is possible to prevent an illegal act and to avoid being judged as an illegal act as much as possible for an abnormality that may occur in a normal game.

It is a perspective view which shows the open state of the permeation | transmission member holding frame of the game machine which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. 1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a front view of the game board of a gaming machine. It is a back view of a gaming machine. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a gaming machine. It is a reverse view of the game board of a gaming machine. It is a figure explaining the entrance path and gathering part of a game machine. It is an expansion perspective view of the gathering part of a game machine. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the gathering part of a gaming machine. It is a top view of the gathering part of a game machine. It is the sectional view on the AA line of FIG. It is the BB sectional view taken on the line of FIG. It is CC sectional view taken on the line of FIG. It is the DD sectional view taken on the line of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of a big hit determination table and a hit determination table. It is a figure which shows an example of the symbol determination table. It is a figure which shows a big hit end time setting data table. It is a figure which shows an example of the special electric accessory operating mode determination table. It is a figure which shows an example of the open mode determination table for long hits, the open mode determination table for short hits, and the open mode determination table for small hits. It is a figure which shows the main process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the timer interruption process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the input control process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the 1st start winning opening detection switch input process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the special figure special electric control process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the special symbol memory | storage determination process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the big hit determination process in the main control board. It is a figure which shows the special symbol fluctuation | variation process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the special symbol stop process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the jackpot game process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the small hit game process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the special game completion | finish process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the common figure normal electric power control process in a main control board. It is a figure which shows the prize ball determination process in a main control board.

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

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an open state of the transmission member holding frame of the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a front view of the gaming machine 1. 3 is a front view of the gaming board of the gaming machine 1, FIG. 4 is a back view of the gaming machine 1, and FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the gaming machine 1.

As shown in FIG. 1, the gaming machine 1 includes a support body 2 and a door body 3 pivotally supported by the support body 2. The support 2 is composed of a frame that forms four sides by an upper plate 2a, a lower plate 2b, and side plates 2c and 2d. Each of the plates 2a to 2d is made of a material such as wood that is not easily deformed or distorted, and is connected by a connecting metal fitting so that an enclosed space is formed in a substantially rectangular shape.
Among these connecting metal fittings, a pair of hinges 4a and 4b project to the front side of the gaming machine 1 in the metal fitting connecting the upper plate 2a and the side plate 2c and the metal fitting connecting the side plate 2c and the lower plate 2b. It is fixed so that it may face at the position.

  The door 3 is pivotally supported by the pair of hinges 4a and 4b. The door body 3 can be opened and closed with respect to the support body 2. In the present embodiment, the door body 3 is constituted by the transmission member holding frame 5 and the game board holding frame 6. FIG. 1 shows a state in which the transmission member holding frame 5 is opened with respect to the support 2 and the game board holding frame 6 is closed with respect to the support 2. The transmission member holding frame 5 and the game board holding frame 6 are partly or entirely brought into contact with the front surface of the support 2 so that the support 2, the transmission member holding frame 5 and the game board holding frame 6 are substantially parallel. From the closed position, the back surface rotates to the open position separated from the front surface of the support 2.

  Like the support body 2, the transmission member holding frame 5 is composed of a frame body in which a substantially rectangular enclosed space is formed by four sides including an upper side 5a, a lower side 5b, and side sides 5c and 5d. A transparent member 7 covering the front surface is fixed in the surrounding space. In the present embodiment, the transparent member 7 is made of a transparent glass plate, but any material or shape can be used as long as a game board 17 (to be described later) can be seen through the transparent member 7. You may comprise with a synthetic resin etc. The material of the transmissive member holding frame 5 is not particularly limited, but is preferably made of a synthetic resin for the purpose of reducing the weight and improving the decorativeness. In this case, in particular, the reinforcing metal fitting 8 is fixed to prevent distortion or deformation. It is good to prevent.

Further, as shown in FIG. 2, on the front surface of the gaming machine 1, that is, on the front surface of the transmission member holding frame 5, there is a decorative lamp 9, an operation handle 10 for launching a game ball, and an upper plate for collecting the paid-out prize balls. 11. The decorative member 12 is fixed. In addition, the decorative member 12 is fixed so as to completely cover the speaker portion 21 provided inside, but the decorative member 12 does not have a sound emission hole for emitting sound from the speaker to the outside of the gaming machine. . That is, since the speaker unit 21 is completely covered with the decorative member 12, the speaker unit 21 cannot be viewed from the outside of the gaming machine. As shown in FIG. 1, the control board 14 for controlling the above-mentioned reinforcing metal fitting 8, the supply path 13 for sending a prize ball to the upper plate 11, the motor for changing the irradiation direction of the decorative lamp 9, etc. It is provided so as to be located on the back side of the gaming machine 1.
As is clear from FIGS. 1 and 2, the upper side 5a and the lower side 5b of the transmission member holding frame 5 are equal in length to the upper plate 2a and the lower plate 2b of the support 2, and the transmission member holding frame 5 When the support 2 and the transmissive member holding frame 5 are substantially parallel (when the transmissive member holding frame 5 is in the closed position), the upper side 5a is the upper plate 2a, and the side sides 5c and 5d are the side plates. The outer peripheral surfaces of 2c and 2d overlap with each other. Therefore, when the gaming machine 1 is viewed from the front, the upper plate 2a and the side plates 2c and 2d of the support 2 are covered with the transmissive member holding frame 5 and cannot be seen. However, the side edges 5 c and 5 d are formed shorter than the side plates 2 c and 2 d, and the lower plate 2 b of the support 2 is exposed to the front side of the gaming machine 1. The lower plate 2b of the support 2 is formed thicker than the upper plate 2a and the side plates 2c and 2d, and a decorative member 15 is fixed to the front side thereof.

  The transmitting member holding frame 5 is fixed with a pivot shaft 16a projecting above the side 5c and a pivot shaft 16b projecting below the side 5c. The pivot shaft 16a is fixed to the hinge 4a. The pivot shaft 16b is pivotally supported by the hinge 4b. Thereby, the transmissive member holding frame 5 is supported so as to be openable and closable with respect to the support 2. The structure for pivotally supporting the transmission member holding frame 5 on the support 2 is not limited to the above, and for example, a part of the side 5c of the transmission member holding frame 5 is formed in a convex shape, and this convex portion is formed. May be directly fitted to the hinges 4a, 4b and the support 2 to be pivotally supported.

Similarly to the transmission member holding frame 5, a game board holding frame 6 is rotatably supported on the hinges 4a and 4b. As shown in FIG. 1, the game board holding frame 6 is composed of a frame in which a substantially rectangular enclosure space is formed by four sides including an upper side 6a, a lower side 6b, a left side 6c, and a right side 6d. Game board stoppers 60a and 60b are provided on the left side 6c of FIG. 6, and game board fixtures 60c and 60d are provided near the right side 6d of the upper side 6a and the lower side 6b, respectively. Then, the game board 17 shown in FIG. 3 is fixed in the surrounding space by the game board stoppers 60a and 60b and the game board fixtures 60c and 60d.
The front surface of the game board 17 is provided with a plurality of nails, windmills, various winning holes through which game balls can enter, and an effect for production, etc. The liquid crystal display device 18 is fixed. In a state where the transmissive member holding frame 5 and the game board holding frame 6 are closed and the game is possible, the transmissive member 7 faces the game board 17 substantially in parallel with a predetermined interval, and the front surface of the game board 17 is Covered by the transmissive member 7.

  Here, various winning holes, winnings and the like provided on the game board 17 will be described with reference to FIGS. As described above, the operation handle 10 is rotatably provided at a lower position of the game board 17. When the player touches the operation handle 10, the touch sensor 3b (see FIG. 5) in the operation handle 10 detects that the player has touched the operation handle 10, and touches the launch control board 106 (see FIG. 5). Send a touch signal. When the firing control board 106 receives a touch signal from the touch sensor 3b, the firing control board 106 permits energization of the firing solenoid 4a (see FIG. 5). When the rotation angle of the operation handle 10 is changed, the gear directly connected to the operation handle 10 rotates and the knob of the firing volume 3a connected to the gear rotates. A voltage corresponding to the detection angle of the firing volume 3a is applied to a firing solenoid 4a provided in the game ball launching mechanism. When a voltage is applied to the firing solenoid 4a, the firing solenoid 4a operates according to the applied voltage, and has a strength according to the rotation angle of the operation handle 3 toward the game area 26. Is fired.

The game ball fired as described above rises between the rails 25 a and 25 b and reaches the upper position of the game board 17, and then falls within the game area 26. At this time, the game ball falls unpredictably by a plurality of nails (not shown) and windmills F provided in the game area 26.
The game area 26 is provided with a plurality of general winning openings 32. Each of these general winning openings 32 is provided with a general winning opening detection switch (general winning opening detection SW) 32a. When the general winning opening detection SW 32a detects the entry of a game ball, the game ball will be described later. It passes through the entrance path and reaches the gathering part within a predetermined period. This collective part is provided with a collective part detection SW 38a, and when a game ball is detected also in the collective part detection SW 38a, a predetermined prize ball (for example, 10 game balls) is paid out. In the present embodiment, the switch is denoted as “SW” as necessary.

  Further, in the game area 26, a normal symbol gate 33 is provided above the special winning opening 34 described later so as to pass the game ball. The normal symbol gate 33 is provided with a gate detection SW 33a for detecting the passage of the game ball. When the gate detection SW 33a detects the passage of the game ball, the normal symbol lottery described later is performed.

Further, at the lower position of the game area 26, similarly to the general prize opening 32, a first start prize opening 30 through which a game ball can be entered is provided. Further, a second start winning opening 31 is provided immediately below the first starting winning opening 30. As shown in FIG. 3, the second start winning prize port 31 has a pair of movable pieces 31b. The first mode in which the pair of movable pieces 31b is maintained in a closed state and the pair of movable pieces 31b. Is controlled to move to the second mode in which it is in the open state (FIG. 3 shows a state in which it is controlled to move to this second mode). In addition, when the 2nd start winning opening 31 is controlled to the said 1st aspect, the 1st starting winning opening 30 located right above the said 2nd starting winning opening 31 becomes an obstruction, and a game ball of Accepting is impossible or difficult. On the other hand, when the second start winning opening 31 is controlled in the second mode, the pair of movable pieces 31b function as trays, and it is easy to enter the game balls into the second starting winning opening 31. Become. That is, when the second start winning opening 31 is in the first mode, there is almost no opportunity for entering a game ball, and when it is in the second mode, the opportunity for entering a game ball is increased.
The first start prize opening 30 and the second start prize opening 31 are provided with a first start prize opening detection SW 30a and a second start prize opening detection SW 31a, respectively, for detecting the entry of game balls. When the detection SW detects the entry of a game ball, a right acquisition lottery (hereinafter referred to as “hit a lottery”) for executing a jackpot game, which will be described later, is performed. Also, when the detection SWs 30a and 31a detect the entry of a game ball, the game ball passes through a later-described entrance passage and reaches the gathering unit within a predetermined period. And when a game ball is detected in the set unit detection SW 38a at the set unit, a predetermined prize ball (for example, three game balls) is paid out.

As shown in FIG. 2, a special winning opening 34 is provided further below the normal symbol gate 33. The special winning opening 34 is normally kept closed by the special winning opening / closing door 34b, so that it is impossible to enter a game ball. On the other hand, when a special game, which will be described later, is started, the big prize opening / closing door 34b is opened, and the big prize opening / closing door 34b functions as a tray for guiding the game ball into the big winning opening 34, A game ball can enter the grand prize opening 34. The special winning opening 34 is provided with a special winning opening detection SW 34a, and when this special winning opening detection SW 34a detects the entry of a game ball, the game ball passes through the entry passage, which will be described later, within a predetermined period. To the gathering part. Then, when a game ball is detected also in the collection unit detection SW 38a at the collection unit, a predetermined prize ball (for example, 15 game balls) is paid out.
In the lower part of the grand prize opening 34, that is, at the bottom of the game area 26, all of the general prize opening 32, the first starting prize opening 30, the second starting prize opening 31, and the big prize opening 34 are entered. A discharge port 35 is provided for discharging game balls that have not been played.
Each of the winning opening detection SWs 30a, 31a, 32a, and 34a corresponds to the ball entry detecting means of the present invention, and the collective part detection SW 38a corresponds to the collective part detecting means of the present invention.

In addition, the game board 17 is provided with an effect device for performing various effects.
Specifically, a liquid crystal display device 18 composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD) or the like is provided at a substantially central portion of the game area 26. Above the liquid crystal display device 18, an effect accessory device is provided. 36 is provided. Furthermore, an effect lighting device 9 is provided at both the upper position and the lower position of the game board 17.

  The liquid crystal display device 18 displays an image while the game is not being performed, or displays an image according to the progress of the game. In particular, when a game ball enters the first start winning opening 30 or the second start winning opening 31, the decorative symbol for notifying the player of the lottery result is variably displayed. The decorative symbol is, for example, that three numbers are scroll-displayed, and the scrolling is stopped after a predetermined time, and a specific symbol (number) is displayed in an array. As a result, while the symbols are being scrolled, the player is given an impression that the lottery is currently being performed, and the player is notified of the lottery result by the symbols displayed when the scrolling is stopped. By displaying various images, characters, and the like during the decorative display of the decorative symbols, the player is given a high expectation that they may win a jackpot.

  The effect accessory device 36 gives a player a sense of expectation according to the operation mode. In the present embodiment, the effect accessory device 36 simulates a belt provided with a rotatable windmill member at the center. Depending on the performance, the windmill member rotates or the entire belt descends.

  In the present embodiment, an effect button (chance button) 37 that can be pressed by the player is provided obliquely above and to the left of the operation handle. For example, the effect button 37 is valid only when a message for operating the effect button 37 is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 18. The effect button 37 is provided with an effect button detection SW 37a. When the effect button detection SW 37a detects the player's operation, a further effect is executed according to this operation.

Below the game area 26, the first special symbol display device 40, the second special symbol display device 41, the normal symbol display device 42, the first hold indicator 43, the second hold indicator 44, the normal symbol hold display A device 45, a high probability state display device 46, and a time reduction state display device 47 are provided.
The special symbol display devices 40 and 41 are for displaying a lottery result of a jackpot lottery performed on condition that a game ball enters the start winning ports 30 and 31. In other words, a plurality of special symbols corresponding to the lottery lottery result are set, and the special symbol corresponding to the lottery lottery result is stopped and displayed on these special symbol display devices 40 and 41 so that the lottery result can be played. The person is informed. The special symbol display devices 40 and 41 are each composed of, for example, a plurality of LEDs. When a big win is won, a plurality of specific LEDs are lit, and when it is lost, a specific LED corresponding thereto is displayed. One lights up. The pattern represented by lighting up in this way becomes a special symbol, but this special symbol is displayed in a stopped state after being displayed in a variable manner for a predetermined time. In other words, whenever a special symbol change display is performed, a special symbol stop display is performed, and the lottery result of the jackpot lottery is notified. Moreover, in this embodiment, the display mode of the special symbols in the first special symbol display device 40 and the second special symbol display device 41 is not the same. That is, even if the same type of jackpot, the display mode of the special symbol in the first special symbol display device 40 and the display mode of the special symbol in the second special symbol display device 41 are different. In this case, even if the player learns the display mode of one of the special symbol display devices 40 and 41, the type of jackpot or the like cannot be grasped from the other display mode. The effect that the display mode of a symbol can be obscure is acquired. If a plurality of LEDs are turned on even in the case of a loss, it is also possible to make it difficult to determine whether it is a loss or a big hit.

  The normal symbol display device 42 is for notifying the lottery result of the lottery performed when the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 33 as an opportunity. When the winning lottery is won, the normal symbol display device 42 composed of LEDs is turned on, and then the second start winning port 31 is controlled to the second mode for a predetermined time. Note that this normal symbol also does not immediately notify the lottery result when the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 33, and the normal symbol display device 42 blinks until a predetermined time elapses. Is displayed in a variable manner. That is, the normal symbol display device 42 blinks until a predetermined time elapses. The blinking of the normal symbol display device 42 constitutes a normal symbol variation display, and the lighting of the normal symbol display device 42 constitutes a normal symbol stop display corresponding to the lottery result of the winning lottery.

By the way, during the special symbol variation display or during the special game in which the big winning opening / closing door 34b is activated, even if the game ball enters the start winning port 30, 31, the special symbol variation display is immediately performed. When the lottery result of the special prize lottery is not notified, the change display of the special symbol (notification of the lottery result of the special prize lottery) is suspended under a certain condition. More specifically, the right to display the variable of the special symbol in which the game ball enters and is retained at the first start winning opening 30 is reserved as the first hold (U1), and the game ball is retained at the second start winning opening 31. The right of variable display of special symbols that are reserved after entering the ball is reserved as the second reservation (U2).
For both of these holds, the upper limit reserved number is set to four, and the reserved number is displayed on the first hold indicator 43 and the second hold indicator 44, respectively. When there is one first hold (U1), the LED on the left side of the first hold indicator 43 is lit, and when there are two first holds (U1), 2 of the first hold indicator 43 is displayed. One LED lights up. In addition, when there are three first holds (U1), the left LED of the first hold indicator 43 blinks and the right LED is lit. When there are four first holds (U1), Two LEDs of the 1 hold indicator 22 blink. Further, on the second hold indicator 44, the reserved number of the second hold (U2) is displayed in the same manner as described above.

On the other hand, the upper limit reserved number is similarly set to 4 for the variable symbol display, and the reserved number is the same as that of the first special symbol hold display device 43 and the second special symbol hold display device 44. It is displayed on the normal symbol hold display device 45 depending on the mode.
The high-probability state display device 46 is composed of LEDs, and lights up under the condition that a high-probability state, which will be described later, is in the morning (when power is restored) before turning off the power. On the other hand, the short-time state display device 47 is also composed of LEDs, but this is lit not only at the time of wake-up but also when the power is turned on under the condition that it is in the short-time state.

  In the game board holding frame 6, below the fixed position of the game board 17, a sound output device 19 (bass speaker 19) and a launch device 20 that launches a game ball into the game area in response to an operation of the operation handle 10. Etc. are fixed.

  As shown in FIG. 4, a main control board 101, an effect control board 102, a payout control board 103, a power supply board 107, a game information output terminal board 108, and the like are provided on the back side of the gaming machine 1 (the back side of the gaming board 17). It has been. Further, the power supply board 107 is provided with a power plug 50 for supplying power to the gaming machine, a power switch (not shown), and the like.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the gaming machine 1. The gaming machine 1 includes a main control board 101, an effect control board 102, a payout control board 103, a lamp control board 104, an image control board 105, a launch control board 106, and a power supply board 107.

The main control board 101 controls the basic operation of the game. The main control board 101 includes a main CPU 101a, a main ROM 101b, and a main RAM 101c. The main CPU 101a reads out a program stored in the main ROM 101b based on an input signal from each detection SW or timer, performs arithmetic processing, directly controls each device or display, or outputs the result of the arithmetic processing. In response, a command is transmitted to another board. The main RAM 101c functions as a data work area during the arithmetic processing of the main CPU 101a.
The main control board 101 and the main CPU 101a correspond to the control means of the present invention.

  Connected to the input side of the main control board 101 are a general winning opening detection SW 32a, a gate detection SW 33a, a first starting winning opening detection SW 30a, a second starting winning opening detection SW 31a, a large winning opening detection SW 34a, and a gathering portion detection SW 38a. The detection signal of the game ball is input to the main control board 101.

  Further, on the output side of the main control board 101, a start winning port opening / closing solenoid 31c for opening / closing the pair of movable pieces 31b of the second start winning port 31 and a large winning port opening / closing for opening / closing the large winning port opening / closing door 34b. The solenoid 34c is connected, and the first special symbol display device 40, the second special symbol display device 41, the normal symbol display device 42, and the first hold indicator 43 that constitute the hold indicator, which constitute the symbol display device. , The second hold indicator 44, the normal symbol hold indicator 45, and the high probability state display device 46 and the short time state display device 47 constituting the state display device are connected, and various signals are output through the output port. Is done.

  The main ROM 101b of the main control board 101 stores a game control program and data and tables necessary for determining various games. The main RAM 101c of the main control board 101 is provided with a plurality of storage areas.

  Further, the main RAM 101 c constitutes a backup RAM as a nonvolatile storage means that is partly or wholly backed up by a backup power source created in the power supply substrate 107. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, the content of data in the main RAM 101c is stored for a predetermined period (until the backup power supply cannot be supplied because the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged). The main RAM 101c may be configured with a flash memory or the like without having a backup power source.

Further, the main control board 101 is directly mounted with a RAM clear switch 101d for instructing to clear the data contents of the main RAM 101c. The main control board 101 is mounted with an RTC (real time clock) 101e that outputs the current time. The main CPU 101a inputs a date signal indicating the current date or a time signal indicating the current time from the RTC 101e, and executes various processes based on the current date and time. The RTC 101e is normally operated by the power supply from the gaming machine when power is supplied to the gaming machine, and is powered by the power supplied from the backup power source mounted on the power supply board 107 when the gaming machine is powered off. Operate. Therefore, the RTC 101e can measure the current date and time even when the gaming machine is turned off.
Note that the RTC 101e may be provided with a battery on the main control board 101 and operated by such a battery. Further, without providing the RTC 101e, the time may be measured by counting up a counter provided in the main RAM 101c having a function as a backup RAM every predetermined time (for example, every 4 ms).

  The power supply board 107 is provided with a backup power supply composed of a capacitor. The power supply voltage supplied to the gaming machine is monitored, and when the power supply voltage falls below a predetermined value, the power interruption detection signal is sent to the main control board 101 and the effect control. Output to the substrate 102. More specifically, when the power interruption detection signal becomes high level, the main CPU 101a and the sub CPU 102a become operable, and when the power interruption detection signal becomes low level, the main CPU 101a and sub CPU 102a become inactive.

  The effect control board 102 mainly controls each effect such as during game play or standby. The effect control board 102 includes a sub CPU 102a, a sub ROM 102b, and a sub RAM 102c, and is connected to the main control board 101 so as to be communicable in one direction from the main control board 101 to the effect control board 102. . The sub CPU 102a reads out the program stored in the main ROM 101b based on the command transmitted from the main control board 101 or the input signal from the effect button detection switch 17a and the timer and performs arithmetic processing. Based on the above, the corresponding data is transmitted to the lamp control board 104 or the image control board 105. The sub RAM 102c functions as a data work area when the sub CPU 102a performs arithmetic processing.

The sub ROM 102b of the effect control board 102 stores an effect control program and data and tables necessary for determining various games.
For example, an effect mode determination table (not shown) for determining an effect mode based on a command received from the main control board 101 is stored in the sub ROM 102b.

  In addition, the sub RAM 102c of the effect control board 102 is provided with a plurality of storage areas.

The payout control board 103 performs game ball launch control and prize ball payout control. The payout control board 103 includes a payout CPU 103a, a payout ROM 103b, and a payout RAM 103c, and is connected to the main control board 101 so as to be capable of two-way communication. The payout CPU 103a reads out the program stored in the payout ROM 103b based on the input signal from the payout ball counting switch 32 and the timer for detecting whether or not the game ball has been paid out, and performs arithmetic processing. Based on this, the corresponding data is transmitted to the main control board 101. The payout control board 103 is connected to a payout motor 31 of a prize ball payout device for paying out a predetermined number of prize balls from the game ball storage unit to the player. The payout CPU 103a reads out a predetermined program from the payout ROM 103b based on the payout number designation command transmitted from the main control board 101, performs arithmetic processing, and controls the prize ball payout device 26 to play a predetermined prize ball. Pay to the person. At this time, the payout RAM 103c functions as a data work area during the calculation process of the payout CPU 103a.
Also, it is confirmed whether a game ball lending device (card unit) (not shown) is connected to the payout control board 103, and if a game ball lending device (card unit) is connected, the game control ball 106 is caused to fire a game ball. Send launch control data to allow that.
The payout control board 103 corresponds to a prize ball payout means of the present invention.

When the launch control board 106 receives the launch control data from the payout control board 103, the launch control board 106 permits the launch. Then, the touch signal from the touch sensor 3b and the input signal from the launch volume 3a are read out, the energization of the launch solenoid 4a is controlled, and the game ball is launched.
Here, the number of pulse voltages applied to the firing solenoid 4a is set to about 99.9 (times / minute) based on the frequency based on the output period of the crystal oscillator provided on the firing control board 106. As a result, the number of games played in one minute is about 99.9 (pieces / minute) because one shot is fired each time the pulse voltage is applied to the firing solenoid 4a.
In the present embodiment, the touch sensor signal from the touch sensor 3 b is transmitted from the launch control board 106 to the effect control board 102 via the payout control board 103 and the main control board 101.

  The lamp control board 104 controls lighting of the effect lighting device 9 provided on the game board 2 and controls driving of the motor for changing the light irradiation direction. In addition, energization control is performed on a drive source such as a solenoid or a motor that operates the effect accessory device 36. The lamp control board 104 is connected to the effect control board 102, and performs the above-described controls based on data transmitted from the effect control board 102.

  The image control board 105 includes an image CPU, an image ROM, an image RAM, and a VRAM (not shown) for performing image display control of the liquid crystal display device 18, and an audio CPU, an audio ROM, and an audio RAM. The image control board 105 is connected to the effect control board 102 so as to be capable of bidirectional communication, and the liquid crystal display device 18 and the audio output device 19 are connected to the output side thereof.

The image ROM stores a large number of image data such as effect symbols and backgrounds displayed on the liquid crystal display device 18, and the image CPU reads a predetermined program based on a command transmitted from the effect control board 102. Then, predetermined image data is read from the image ROM to the VRAM, and display control in the liquid crystal display device 18 is performed. The image CPU performs various image processing such as background image display processing, effect symbol display processing, and character image display processing on the liquid crystal display device 18, but the background image, effect symbol image, and character image are displayed on the liquid crystal display. The image is superimposed on the display screen of the device 18.
That is, the effect design image and the character image are displayed so as to be seen in front of the background image. At this time, if the background image and the design image overlap at the same position, the design image is preferentially stored in the VRAM 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. .

  The audio ROM stores a large amount of audio data output from the audio output device 19, and the audio CPU reads out a predetermined program based on a command transmitted from the effect control board 102 and Audio output control is performed in the output device 19.

  Next, with regard to the path (the entrance path) until the game balls that have entered the respective winning entrances of the gaming machine 1 (starting winning entrances 30, 31, general winning entrance 32, large winning entrance 34) reach the gathering part, This will be described with reference to FIGS.

  The game balls that have entered the respective winning holes (starting winning ports 30, 31, general winning port 32, large winning port 34) of the gaming machine 1 are first set to the winning port detecting SWs (start winning port detecting SWs 30a, 31a, general winning ports). Detected by the mouth detection SW 32a and the special winning opening detection SW 34a), and then passes through the ball entering paths A to D and reaches the gathering portion 38. Then, in this collective portion 38, the collective portion detection SW 38a further detects game balls (game balls passing through the entrance paths A to D).

  FIG. 6 shows the entrance paths A to D and the gathering portion provided on the game board 17 side from these control boards when the main control board 101 and the effect control board 102 provided on the back of the game board 17 are removed. It is a figure for demonstrating 38. FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically illustrating the entrance paths A to D and the gathering portion 38.

  On the back side of the game board 17, there is a entrance passage A through which a game ball entered the first start winning opening 30 can pass, a entrance passage B through which a game ball entered the second start winning opening 31 can pass, Entry paths C1, C2, C3, and C4 through which game balls that have entered the general prize opening 32 can pass, and a entrance path D through which game balls that have entered the big prize opening 34 can pass are provided. . A collecting portion guide path 39 and a collecting portion 38 are provided on the downstream side (the lower side of the game board 17) of these entrance paths. On the upstream side of the winning paths A to D (the upper side of the game board 17 and the side facing the entrance of each winning opening), the winning opening detection SWs 30a to 34a are arranged. Each of the winning opening detection SWs 30a to 34a has a hole through which one game ball can pass, and when the game ball passes through the hole, it is detected that there is a ball in the winning hole. Has become.

  Although not shown in part, an inclination is formed toward the downstream side of the game board 17 (below the game board 17) from each prize opening to each prize opening detection SW. The game ball that has entered the ball rolls according to the inclination of the game ball due to its own weight, and is guided to each winning hole detection SW.

  The entrance path A is a path in which the game balls have an inclination toward the downstream side of the game board 17, and the game balls flow down the entrance path A to the gathering portion guide path 39. Discharged.

  In addition, the winning ball paths B, C1 to C4 and D are paths for directing the game ball in the downward direction, and pass through the second start winning hole detection SW 31a, the general winning hole detection SW 32a, and the big winning hole detection SW 34a. The played game balls are discharged directly to the collecting portion guide path 39 directly under the entrance paths B, C1 to C4 and D.

  In the present embodiment, since there are a plurality (four) of the general winning openings 32, the corresponding general winning opening detection SWs 32a are also provided correspondingly (four), but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a ball entering passage that collects game balls entered from a plurality of general winning openings 32 may be provided, and the general winning opening detection SW 32 a may be provided in this entering passage E. Specifically, the entrance paths C1, C2, and C3 are once combined into one entrance path (this is referred to as the entrance path E), and a game is played from the entrance path E toward the collecting portion guide path 39. Try to drain the ball. And it is good also as what provides general winning opening detection SW32a in this entrance path E. In this way, it is not necessary to provide the winning opening detection SW 32a related to the plurality of general winning openings 32, and the number of components of the winning opening detection SW 32a can be reduced.

  The gathering part guide path 39 has a curved shape with the gathering part 38 as the lowest end. The game balls discharged from the respective entry paths collide with the collective part guide path 39 and then roll toward the collective part 38.

  The collective portion 38 is inclined downward toward the tip end portion of the collective portion 38 (a “straight upper portion 80” described later), and the game balls collected in the collective portion 38 are collected in the collective flow formed in the collective portion 38. After passing through the path 38 </ b> A and passing through the collective part detection SW 38 a provided at the tip part (“linear part 80”), it falls into the discharge ball passage 90. In addition, the game ball that has passed through the discharge port 35 falls into the discharge ball passage 90 as it is from the flow-down basket 35A. Although not shown in detail, the discharge ball passage 90 discharges the game ball launched into the game area 26 to the outside of the game machine (for example, a device for circulating the game ball provided in the island facility). It is a passage.

  The gathering unit 38 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 8 is an enlarged perspective view of the gathering portion 38, and FIG. 9 is a longitudinal sectional view of the gathering portion 38. FIG. 10 is a plan view of the collective portion 38 as viewed from above the game board 17. 11 is a sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 10, FIG. 12 is a sectional view taken along line BB, FIG. 13 is a sectional view taken along line CC, and FIG. 14 is a sectional view taken along line DD.

  As shown in these drawings, the assembly portion 38 is integrally formed of a resin such as plastic so as to include a ball receiving portion 60, a meandering portion 70, and a linear portion 80. The ball receiving portion 60 is sized and shaped to fit into the recess 39A in the gathering portion guide path 39, and receives a game ball rolling on the gathering portion guide path 39 by being fitted into the recess 39A. It becomes possible. The ball receiving portion 60 is formed with a high peripheral side wall 61 so that the game balls U rolling on the collecting portion guiding path 39 can be stacked in multiple stages, and the bottom surface thereof forms the collecting flow path 38A. . The horizontal width of the collective flow path 38A is formed to be slightly wider than the diameter of the game ball U. Further, as shown in FIG. 10, the bottom surface of the ball receiving portion 60 is formed so as to be inclined downward toward the center line of the collective flow path 38A, thereby forming a ball guiding strip 62.

  As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the meandering portion 70 is configured such that the height of the side walls 71a and 71b of the collecting flow path 38A can be stacked in multiple stages by the game balls U, and the side walls 71a and 71b The enclosed collective flow path width is set to a substantially constant width that allows the game balls U to flow down in a single row, and the both side walls are formed in a longitudinal wave plate shape that is repeatedly bent in the downward direction of the ball flow. Further, the bottom surface of the meandering portion 70 is formed so as to meander along a ball guide strip 72 continuous from the ball receiving portion 60 as shown in FIG.

  Moreover, the longitudinal corrugated plate shape of both side walls 71a and 71b is formed in a shape in which the downstream portion is bent at a more acute angle than the upstream portion as shown in FIG. Further, the meandering shape of the ball guiding strip 72 is also formed in a shape in which the downstream portion is bent at an acute angle rather than the upstream portion.

  The straight portion 80 provided downstream of the meandering portion 70 has side walls 81a and 81b connected to the both side walls 71a and 71b, thereby providing a collective flow path 38A that allows the game balls U to flow down in a single-stage aligned state. It is formed in a straight line, and a collective portion detection SW 38a is provided at the tip thereof. This collective part detection SW 38a also has a hole through which one game ball can pass, like the above-described winning opening detection SWs 30a to 34a, and when the game ball passes through this hole, The arrival at the gathering unit 38 is detected. Further, on the bottom surface of the linear portion 80, a sphere guide strip 82 that is continuous from the meandering portion 70 is formed as shown in FIG.

  As described above, in the gathering portion 38, the game balls U stacked in multiple stages of the ball receiving portion 60 move to the meandering portion 70. Then, in accordance with the waveform of the inner surfaces of the side walls 71a and 71b and the meandering shape of the ball guiding strip 72, the game ball U flows down while repeatedly swinging in the width direction. For this reason, the stacking of the game balls U is gradually eliminated as it flows down, and the game balls U are arranged in a single stage to reach the linear portion 80. In this way, the meandering portion 70 is formed with the longitudinal corrugated plate shape of the side walls 71a and 71b in a shape in which the downstream portion is bent at an acute angle with respect to the upstream portion. The U flows smoothly without clogging, and the game ball gradually swings to the left and right as it reaches the downstream portion, so that stacking can be reliably eliminated.

  Therefore, even if a path (aggregation part 38) that collects the game balls that have passed through the plurality of entrance paths A to D is provided, the game balls are swung in the aggregation part 38 while flowing down, Balls can be naturally aligned, and ball clogging that tends to occur in the gathering portion 38 can be reliably eliminated. In addition, according to this embodiment, it is not necessary to attach separate parts, such as the conventional ball | bowl leveling member and a vibration generator, to the gathering part 38, cost can be reduced, and a ball | bowl clogging can be eliminated reliably. .

  Next, processing related to the progress of the game in the gaming machine 1 will be described.

  Details of the various tables stored in the main ROM 101b will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B are diagrams illustrating a jackpot determination table that is referred to when determining whether or not the special symbol variation stop result is a jackpot. FIG. 15A is a jackpot determination table referred to in the first special symbol display device 40, and FIG. 15B is a jackpot determination table referred to in the second special symbol display device 41. In the tables of FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B, although the winning probabilities for small hits are different, the jackpot probabilities are the same.
Specifically, the jackpot determination table is composed of a low-probability random number determination table and a high-probability random number determination table, and refers to the gaming state to select the low-probability random-number determination table or the high-probability random-number determination table. Based on the selected table and the extracted random number value for determining the special symbol, it is determined whether it is “big hit”, “small hit” or “lost”.

For example, according to the low probability random number determination table in the first special symbol display device 40 shown in FIG. 15A, two special symbol determination random numbers “7” and “317” are determined to be big hits. . On the other hand, according to the high probability random number determination table, “7”, “37”, “67”, “97”, “127”, “157”, “187”, “217”, “247”, “277” , “317”, “337”, “367”, “397”, “427”, “457”, “487”, “517”, “547”, “577” 20 special symbol determination random numbers Is determined to be a big hit. Further, regardless of whether the low probability random number determination table or the high probability random number determination table is used, the special symbol determination random number values are “50”, “100”, “150”, and “200”. If it is a random number value for symbol determination, it is determined as “small hit”. If the random number is other than the above, it is determined as “lost”.
Therefore, since the random number range of the special symbol determination random number is 0 to 598, the probability of being determined to be a big hit at a low probability is 1 / 299.5, and the probability of being determined to be a big hit at a high probability is 10 times. It is 1 / 29.95. In addition, the probability determined to be a small hit is 1 / 149.75 for both low and high probabilities.

FIG. 15C is a diagram illustrating a hit determination table that is referred to when determining whether or not the stop result of the normal symbol variation is determined to be a win.
Specifically, the hit determination table is composed of a random time determination table in the non-short gaming state and a random number determination table in the short time gaming state, and refers to the gaming state, and in the non-short gaming state random number determination table or in the short time gaming state A random number determination table is selected, and based on the selected table and the extracted random number value for winning determination, it is determined whether it is “winning” or “lost”.
For example, according to the non-time / short game state random number determination table shown in FIG. 15C, it is determined that one hit determination random number value “0” is a hit. On the other hand, according to the short game state random number determination table at this time, ten hit determination random numbers from “0” to “9” are determined to be winning. If the random number is other than the above, it is determined as “lost”.
Therefore, since the random number range of the winning determination random value is 0 to 10, the probability of being determined to be a big hit in the non-short game state is 1/11, and the probability of being determined to be a big hit in the short time gaming state is 10 times. It is 10/11.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a symbol determination table for determining a special symbol stop symbol.
FIG. 16 (a) is a symbol determination table for determining a stop symbol at the time of a big hit, and FIG. 16 (b) is a symbol determination table for determining a stop symbol at the time of a small hit, FIG. 16 (c). Is a symbol determination table for determining a stop symbol at the time of losing. More specifically, the symbol determination table is also configured for each special symbol display device, and includes a symbol determination table for the first special symbol display device and a symbol determination table for the second special symbol display device.

The special symbol type (stop symbol data) is determined by the symbol determination table on the basis of the extracted jackpot symbol random value or small symbol random number value. For example, in the case of jackpot, the jackpot symbol random number value is referred to, and if the jackpot symbol random number value is “30”, “01” (first special special symbol 1) is determined as stop symbol data. In addition, the random number value for the small hit symbol is referred to at the time of the small hit, and if the random number value for the small hit symbol is “50”, “09” (special symbol B for small bonus) is determined as the stop symbol data. Furthermore, when it is lost, “00” (special symbol 0) is determined as stop symbol data without referring to the random number value.
Then, at the time of starting the change of the special symbol, an effect designating command is generated as special symbol information based on the determined special symbol type (stop symbol data). Here, the effect designating command is composed of 1-byte data, and 1-byte MODE for identifying the control command classification and 1-byte indicating the content (function) of the executed control command. DATA. The same applies to a variation pattern designation command and a start winning designation command described later.

  As will be described later, the game state after the jackpot (see FIG. 17) and the jackpot mode (see FIG. 18) are determined by the type of special symbol (stop symbol data), so the type of special symbol is a jackpot It can be said that the game state after the end and the jackpot mode are determined.

FIG. 17 is a jackpot end setting data table for determining the gaming state after the jackpot ends. According to the jackpot end setting data table shown in FIG. 17, the setting of the high probability game flag, the number of high probability games based on the type of special symbol (stop symbol data) and the game state at the time of jackpot winning stored in the game state buffer Setting of (X), setting of a short time game flag, and setting of the number of short time games (J) are performed.
It should be noted that “00H” in the gaming state buffer indicating the gaming state at the time of winning the big win indicates gaming state information in which neither the short-time gaming flag nor the high probability gaming flag is set, and “01H” indicates that the short-time gaming flag is set. Although the high probability game flag is not set, the game state information is set. “02H” is the game state information in which the short-time game flag is set but the high probability game flag is not set. "" Indicates game state information in which both the short-time game flag and the high probability game flag are set.

  The features of the jackpot end setting data table shown in FIG. 17 are as follows. In the first special symbol display device 40, a first special symbol 2 (corresponding to stop symbol data 02, short hit), a first special symbol 3 ( When the stop symbol data 03 (corresponding to short winning) is determined, the setting of the short-time game flag and the number of short-time games are varied based on the winning game state stored in the game state buffer.

For example, in the case of the first specific special symbol 2 (stopped symbol data 02), the high probability game flag is set after the jackpot is finished, and the game can proceed in the high probability game state regardless of the data in the game state buffer. The high probability game number (X) which is a long period is set to 10000 times. At this time, if the data in the gaming state buffer is “00H” indicating a low probability gaming state and a non-temporary gaming state, or is a high probability gaming state and indicates a non-temporary gaming state. In the case of “01H”, the short-time game flag is not set, and the short-time game number (J) is also set to zero. On the other hand, if the game state buffer is other data (02H, 03H), the short-time game flag is set and the short-time game number (J) is set to 10,000 times.
This makes it possible to change the number of short-time games (J) to be given depending on the game state, and to give the player the enjoyment of what the game state is when the big win is won.

FIG. 18 is a special electric accessory operating mode determination table for determining the opening / closing conditions of the special winning opening 34. The table of FIG. 18 determines the number of round games played in the jackpot game and the opening mode table of the big prize opening 34 based on the type of special symbol (stop symbol data).
In addition, in this embodiment, although the table determined by the 1st special symbol display apparatus 40 and the 2nd special symbol display apparatus 41 is different, this is only an example and both the special symbol display apparatuses 40, What kind of table is determined in 41 may be set as appropriate.

FIG. 19 is an opening mode determination table showing details of the opening mode table of the big winning opening 34 determined in FIG. 18, FIG. 19A is a long hit release mode determination table, and FIG. FIG. 19 (c) is a small hit use release mode determination table.
Specifically, the number of round games (R), the number of times of opening (K), the opening time, and the closing time are stored in association with each other.

Here, the short hit release mode determination table in FIG. 19 (b) and the small hit release mode determination table in FIG. 19 (c) differ in the number of round games (R) and the number of releases (K). However, the actual opening / closing door 34b has the same number of opening / closing operations (15 times), and the opening time (0.052 seconds) and closing time (2.000 seconds) are the same. The person cannot distinguish whether it is a small hit or short hit from the appearance. Thereby, the pleasure which makes a player guess whether it is a small hit or a short win can be provided. However, it is not limited to setting exactly the same opening time and closing time, and any difference that cannot determine whether the player has a small hit or short hit is acceptable.
In addition, the opening time of “short win” or “small hit” (0.052 seconds) is shorter than the time (about 0.6 seconds) at which one game ball is fired as described above. Even if the open / close door 34b is opened, it is difficult to win the big prize opening 34, and the "short win" or "small win" opening mode can be said to be an "unfavorable opening mode". On the other hand, since the “long hit” release time (29.5 seconds) is longer than the time (about 0.6 seconds) at which one game ball is fired, it can be said to be an “advantageous release mode”.

(Description of gaming state)
Next, the gaming state when the game progresses will be described. In the present embodiment, the game progresses in any one of the “low probability gaming state”, “high probability gaming state”, “time / short gaming state”, and “non-time / short gaming state”. However, while the game is in progress, if the game state is “low probability game state” or “high probability game state”, it is always “time-short game state” or “non-time-short game state”. In other words, there are cases of “low probability gaming state” and “short-time gaming state” and “low probability gaming state” and “non-short-time gaming state”. .
Further, the gaming state when the “low probability gaming state” and the “non-temporary gaming state” are referred to as “normal gaming state”. Note that the gaming state when the game is started, that is, the initial gaming state of the gaming machine 1 is set to “normal gaming state” (“low probability gaming state” and “non-short game state”).

In the present embodiment, the “low probability gaming state” means that in the jackpot lottery performed on condition that a game ball has entered the first start winning opening 30 or the second starting winning slot 31, the winning probability of jackpot is The game state set to 1 / 299.5. The jackpot winning here is to acquire a right to execute a “long win game” or a “short win game” which will be described later.
On the other hand, the “high probability gaming state” means a gaming state in which the jackpot winning probability is set to 1 / 29.95. Therefore, in the “high probability gaming state”, it is easier to acquire the right to execute “game per long” or “game per short” than in the “low probability gaming state”.

  In the present embodiment, “non-short-time gaming state” means that in the normal symbol lottery performed on condition that the game ball has passed through the normal symbol gate 33, the time required for the lottery is set as long as 29 seconds, and The game state in which the opening control time of the second start winning award 31 when winning the winning is set as short as 0.2 seconds. That is, when the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 33, the normal symbol lottery is performed, and the lottery result is determined 29 seconds after the lottery is started. If the lottery result is a win, then the second start winning opening 31 is controlled to the second mode for about 0.2 seconds.

On the other hand, the “short-time gaming state” means that the time required for drawing the normal symbol is 3 seconds, which is shorter than the “non-short-time gaming state”, and the second starting prize when winning in the win. The opening control time of the mouth 31 is 3.5 seconds, which means a gaming state set longer than the “non-short game state”. Furthermore, in the “non-short game state”, the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery is set to 1/11, and in the “short time game state”, the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery is set to 10/11. Is set.
Therefore, in the “short time gaming state”, the second start winning opening 31 is more easily controlled to the second mode as long as the game ball passes through the normal symbol gate 33 than in the “non-short time gaming state”. As a result, in the “short-time gaming state”, the player can proceed with the game without substantially reducing the number of game balls.
Note that the probability of winning in the normal symbol lottery may be set so that it does not change in any of the “non-short-time gaming state” and the “time-short gaming state”.

(Explanation of hit type)
In the present embodiment, two types of big hits “long hit” and “short hit” and two types of “small hit” are provided.

In the present embodiment, the “long win game” means that a long hit game is executed in a jackpot lottery performed on condition that a game ball has entered the first start winning opening 30 or the second start winning opening 31. A game executed when a right is acquired.
In the “long game”, a round game in which the special winning opening 34 is opened is performed a total of 15 times. The total opening time of the grand prize opening 34 in each round game is set to a maximum of 29.5 seconds, and if a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 9) enter the big prize opening 34 during this time, one round The game ends. In this “long game”, when a game ball enters the big winning opening 34, a predetermined prize ball (for example, 15 game balls) is paid out. In other words, “game per long” is a game in which a lot of prize balls can be obtained because a game ball enters the big prize opening 34 and a player can obtain a prize ball according to the prize.

In the present embodiment, “short win game” means that a short win game is executed in a big win lottery performed on condition that a game ball has entered the first start winning opening 30 or the second start winning opening 31. A game executed when a right is acquired.
In the “short win game”, a round game in which the special winning opening 34 is opened is performed a total of 15 times. However, in each round game, the special winning opening 34 is opened only once, and the opening time is set to 0.052 seconds. During this time, when a predetermined number of game balls (for example, 9 balls) enter the big prize opening 34, one round game is finished. However, since the opening time of the big prize opening 34 is extremely short as described above, Hardly enters, and even if a game ball enters, only one or two game balls enter at most in one round game. In this “short win game”, when a game ball enters the big winning opening 34, a predetermined prize ball (for example, 15 game balls) is paid out.

In the present embodiment, “small hit game” means that a small hit game is executed in a big hit lottery performed on the condition that a game ball has entered the first start winning opening 30 or the second start winning opening 31. A game executed when a right is acquired.
In the “small winning game”, the big prize opening 34 is opened 15 times as in the “short winning game”. The opening time, opening / closing timing, and opening / closing mode of the big winning opening 34 at this time are the same as the “short win game”, or the player cannot discriminate between “small win game” and “short win game”. Approximate to a difficult degree. However, when a game ball enters the special winning opening 34, a predetermined prize ball (for example, 15 game balls) is paid out in the same manner as described above.

In the present embodiment, the “long win game” and the “short win game” are referred to as “big hit game”, and the “big hit game” and the “small hit game” are collectively referred to as “special game”. That's it.
In the main control board 101, a flag is stored in the game state storage area of the main RAM 101c so as to grasp which game state is the current game state.
Also, the game state is changed from one game state to another game state after winning the jackpot and finishing the jackpot game as a result of the jackpot lottery.
In the present embodiment, a plurality of types of “big jackpots” are provided, and the type of “big jackpot” is determined according to the type of special symbol (type of jackpot symbol) determined by winning the jackpot. Then, after the jackpot ends, the subsequent gaming state changes according to the type of jackpot symbol. In the case where “small hit” is won, the gaming state such as “high probability gaming state” or “short-time gaming state” is not changed after the “small hit gaming state” ends. For example, when “small hit” is won in the “high probability gaming state”, the “high probability gaming state” continues even after the “small hit gaming state” ends.

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

(Main processing of main control board)
The main process of the main control board 101 will be described with reference to FIG.

  When power is supplied from the power supply board 107, a system reset occurs in the main CPU 101a, and the main CPU 101a performs the following main processing.

(Step S10)
First, the main CPU 101a performs initialization processing. In this process, the main CPU 101a reads a startup program from the main ROM 101b and initializes a flag stored in the main RAM 101c in response to power-on.

(Step S20)
Subsequent to step S10, the main CPU 101a performs an effect random number update process for updating the random number value for variation pattern and the random value for reach determination.

(Step S30)
After step S20, the main CPU 101a updates the special symbol determination initial value random number, the big hit symbol initial value random number, and the small hit symbol initial value random number. Thereafter, the processes of step S20 and step S30 are repeated until a predetermined interrupt process is performed.

(Timer interrupt processing of main control board)
The timer interrupt process of the main control board 101 will be described with reference to FIG.

  A clock pulse is generated every predetermined period (4 milliseconds) by the reset clock pulse generation circuit provided on the main control board 101, thereby executing a timer interrupt process described below.

(Step S100)
First, the main CPU 101a saves information stored in the register of the main CPU 101a in the stack area.

(Step S110)
Subsequent to step S100, the main CPU 101a updates the special symbol time counter, updates the special game timer counter such as the opening time of the special electric accessory, updates the normal symbol time counter, Time control processing for updating various timer counters such as update processing is performed. Specifically, a process of subtracting “1” from the special symbol time counter, the special game timer counter, the normal symbol time counter, and the general electricity open time counter is performed.

(Step S120)
Subsequent to step S110, the main CPU 101a performs a random number update process for the special symbol determination random number value, the big hit symbol random number value, the small hit symbol random number value, and the hit determination random number value.
Specifically, each random number counter is incremented by “1” to update the random number counter. When the addition result exceeds the maximum value in the random number range, the random number counter is reset to 0. When the random number counter makes one round, the random number is updated from the initial random number value at that time.

(Step S130)
After step S120, the main CPU 101a adds an initial value random number counter for special symbol determination, an initial value random number counter for jackpot symbol, and an initial value random number counter for jackpot symbol to update the random number counter by +1. I do.

(Step S200)
Subsequent to step S130, the main CPU 101a performs input control processing. In this process, the main CPU 101a inputs inputs to the general winning opening detection switch 32a, the gate detection switch 33a, the first starting winning opening detection switch 30a, the second starting winning opening detection switch 31a, and the big winning opening detection switch 34a. An input process is performed to determine whether or not there has been. Specifically, this will be described later with reference to FIGS.

(Step S300)
Subsequent to step S200, the main CPU 101a performs a special figure special power control process for controlling the special symbol and the special electric accessory. Details will be described later with reference to FIGS.

(Step S400)
Subsequent to step S300, the main CPU 101a performs a general-purpose normal power control process for controlling the normal symbol and the normal electric accessory. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

(Step S500)
Subsequent to step S400, the main CPU 101a performs prize ball determination processing. In this process, the main CPU 101a determines a winning ball for determining whether or not the game ball has been successfully won in the big winning opening 34, the first starting winning opening 30, the second starting winning opening 31, and the general winning opening 32. Process. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.
More specifically, when the general winning mouth prize ball counter, the big winning mouth prize ball counter, and the starting winning mouth prize ball counter updated in FIG. 22 to be described later are checked and determined to be normal winning. Sets a command for executing a payout of a prize ball corresponding to each winning opening.

(Step S550)
Following step S550, the main CPU 101a performs a payout control process. In step S550, if it is determined that a game ball has been normally entered in the big prize opening 34, the first start prize opening 30, the second start prize opening 31, and the general prize opening 32, the number of payouts corresponding to each A designated command is transmitted to the payout control board 103. Thereafter, predetermined data is subtracted from the prize ball counter corresponding to the sent out number designation command and updated.

(Step S600)
Subsequent to step S550, the main CPU 101a performs data creation processing of external information data, start winning port opening / closing solenoid data, large winning port opening / closing solenoid data, special symbol display device data, normal symbol display device data, and storage number designation command. .

(Step S700)
Following step S600, the main CPU 101a performs output control processing. In this process, a port output process is performed to output the signals of the external information data, start winning opening / closing solenoid data, and large winning opening / closing solenoid data created in S600. In addition, in order to turn on the LEDs of the special symbol display devices 40 and 41 and the normal symbol display device 42, a display device output process for outputting the special symbol display device data and the normal symbol display device data created in step S600 is performed. Do. Further, command transmission processing for transmitting a command set in the effect transmission data storage area of the main RAM 101c is also performed.

(Step S800)
Following step S700, the main CPU 101a restores the information saved in step S100 to the register of the main CPU 101a.

  The input control processing of the main control board 101 will be described using FIG.

(Step S210)
First, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not a detection signal is input from the general winning opening detection switch 32a, that is, whether or not a game ball has won the general winning opening 32. When the main CPU 101a receives a detection signal from the general winning opening detection switch 32a, the main CPU 101a updates the general winning opening prize ball counter used for winning balls by adding predetermined data.

(Step S220)
Subsequent to step S210, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the detection signal from the big prize opening detection switch 34a has been inputted, that is, whether or not the game ball has won the big prize opening 34. When the main CPU 101a receives a detection signal from the big prize opening detection switch 34a, the main CPU 101a adds predetermined data to the big prize mouth prize ball counter used for the prize ball and updates it, and also wins the big prize mouth 34. The winning prize entrance counter (C) for counting the number of game balls played is added and updated.

(Step S230)
Subsequent to step S220, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the detection signal from the first start winning opening detection switch 30a has been input, that is, whether or not the game ball has won the first starting winning opening 30. Predetermined data for performing the determination is set. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

(Step S240)
Subsequent to step S230, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the detection signal from the second start winning opening detection switch 31a has been input, that is, whether or not the game ball has won the second start winning opening 31. When the main CPU 101a receives a detection signal from the second start winning opening detection switch 31a, the main CPU 101a updates the start winning opening prize ball counter used for the winning ball by adding predetermined data and updates the second special symbol. If the data set in the reserved number (U2) storage area is less than 4, “1” is added to the second special symbol reserved number (U2) storage area, and the random number value for special symbol determination and the jackpot symbol disturbance The numerical value, the random number value for the small hit design, and the random value for reach determination are extracted, and the extracted random value is stored in the second special symbol storage area.
That is, when compared with the first start winning opening detection switch input process of FIG. 23 described later, the same process is performed although the area for storing data is different between the first special symbol storage area and the second special symbol storage area. .

(Step S250)
After step S240, the main CPU 101a determines whether the gate detection switch 33a has input a signal, that is, whether the game ball has passed through the normal symbol gate 33. Further, when the gate detection switch 33a inputs a signal, the main CPU 101a adds “1” to the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, and from a random number range (for example, 0 to 10) prepared in advance. One hit determination random number value is extracted, and the extracted random number value is stored in the normal symbol holding storage area. However, when “4” is stored in the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, “1” is added to the normal symbol holding number (G) storage area, or a random number for winning determination is extracted. The random number value extracted in the normal symbol holding storage area is not stored. When this process ends, the input control process ends.

  The first start winning opening detection switch input process of the main control board 101 will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S230-1)
First, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not a detection signal is input from the first start winning port detection switch 30a.
When the detection signal from the first start winning port detection switch 30a is input, the process proceeds to step S230-2, and when the detection signal from the first start winning port detection switch 30a is not input, the first The start winning port detection switch input process is terminated.

(Step S230-2)
Subsequent to step S230-1, the main CPU 101a performs a process of adding predetermined data to the start winning opening prize ball counter used for a prize ball and updating it.

(Step S230-3)
Subsequent to step S230-2, the main CPU 101a determines whether the data set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area is less than 4.

(Step S230-4)
If it is determined in step S230-3 that the data set in the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area is less than 4, the main CPU 101a stores the first special symbol hold count (U1). Add “1” to the area and store it.

(Step S230-5)
Subsequent to step S230-4, the main CPU 101a extracts a random number value for determining a special symbol, and searches for a free storage unit in order from the first storage unit in the first special symbol storage area. The extracted special symbol determination random number value is stored in the storage unit.

(Step S230-6)
Subsequent to step S230-5, the main CPU 101a extracts a jackpot symbol random number value, and searches for a vacant storage unit in order from the first storage unit in the first special symbol storage area. The random number for jackpot symbol extracted is stored in the storage unit.

(Step S230-7)
Subsequent to step S230-6, the main CPU 101a extracts the random numbers for the small bonus symbols, searches for the vacant storage units in order from the first storage unit in the first special symbol storage area, and becomes free. The small random number value for the small hit symbol is stored in the storage unit.

(Step S230-8)
Subsequent to step S230-7, the main CPU 101a extracts the random number value for variation pattern and the random number value for reach determination as the random number value for presentation, and is vacated in order from the first storage unit in the first special symbol storage area. The random number for fluctuation pattern and the random number for reach determination extracted in the free storage are stored.

  As described above, the special symbol determination random number value, the big hit symbol random number value, the small hit symbol random number value, the variation pattern random number value, and the reach determination random number value are stored in the predetermined storage unit of the first special symbol storage area. Will be.

(Step S230-9)
In step S230-9, the main CPU 101a generates a start winning designation command (first starting prize designation command) from the random value acquired in steps S230-5 to S230-8, and transmission data for production in the main RAM 101c. Set in the storage area. At this time, in order to update the first reserved number displayed on the first special symbol hold indicator 22, special symbol hold display data indicating the reserved number is set in a predetermined area of the main RAM 101c. When this process ends, the first start winning opening detection switch input process ends.
As described above, when a game ball enters the first start winning opening 30 and there is a vacancy in the storage unit of the first special symbol storage area, each random number value is not stored in the storage unit. When each random number value is stored in the storage unit with the smallest number and there is no space in the storage unit of the first special symbol storage area, each random number value is not extracted (stored) and the first start winning a prize detection switch The input process ends. However, even when there is no free space in the storage unit of the first special symbol storage area, a winning ball will be paid out with respect to a game ball entering the first start winning port 30.
In the present embodiment, detailed description of the second start winning a prize opening detection switch input process is omitted, but the first start winning award is also received when a signal is input from the second start winning a prize opening detection switch 31a. Processing similar to the mouth detection switch input processing is performed.

  With reference to FIG. 24, the special figure special power control processing of the main control board 101 will be described.

(Step S301) (Step S302)
First, the main CPU 101a loads the value of the special figure special electricity processing data (step S301), and refers to the branch address from the special figure special electric treatment data loaded in step S302.

(Step S310)
In the above step S302, if the special figure special electricity processing data = 0, the special symbol memory determination process is executed. Details will be described later with reference to FIGS. 25 and 26.

(Step S320)
In the above step S302, if the special figure special electric processing data = 1, the special symbol variation process is executed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

(Step S330)
In the above step S302, if the special figure special electricity processing data = 2, the special symbol stop process is executed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

(Step S340)
In step S302, if the special figure special electric processing data = 3, the big hit game processing is executed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

(Step S350)
In the above step S302, if the special figure special electric processing data = 4, the small hit game processing is executed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

(Step S360)
In the above step S302, if the special figure special electric processing data = 5, the special game end processing is executed. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The special symbol memory determination process of the main control board 101 will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S310-1)
First, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the special symbol is being changed. Here, if the special symbol variation display is in progress (special symbol time counter ≠ 0), the special symbol memory determination process is terminated.

(Step S310-2)
If it is determined in step S310-1 that the special symbol variation display is not in progress (special symbol time counter = 0), the main CPU 101a has a second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area of 1 or more. Determine whether.

(Step S310-3)
If it is determined in step S310-2 that the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area is “1” or more, the main CPU 101a stores the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area. “1” is subtracted from the stored value and stored.

(Step S310-4)
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S310-2 that the second special symbol hold count (U2) storage area is not 1 or more, the main CPU 101a has a first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area of 1 or more. It is determined whether it is.

(Step S310-5)
If it is determined in step S310-4 that the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area is “1” or more, the main CPU 101a stores the first special symbol hold count (U1) storage area. “1” is subtracted from the stored value and stored.

(Step S310-6)
Next, the main CPU 101a performs a shift process on the data stored in the special symbol reservation storage area corresponding to the special symbol reservation number (U) storage area subtracted in steps S310-2 to S310-5. Specifically, each data stored in the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit in the first special symbol storage area or the second special symbol storage area is shifted to the previous storage unit. Here, the data stored in the first storage unit is shifted to the determination storage area (the 0th storage unit). At this time, the data stored in the first storage unit is written in the determination storage area (0th storage unit), and the data already written in the determination storage area (0th storage unit) is stored in the special symbol hold storage. It will be erased from the area. Thereby, the special symbol determination random number value, the big hit symbol random number value, the small hit symbol random number value, the reach determination random number value, and the variation pattern random number value used in the previous game are deleted.
In the present embodiment, the second special symbol storage area is shifted with priority over the first special symbol storage area in steps S310-2 to S310-6. The first special symbol storage area or the second special symbol storage area may be shifted in the order of winning the crab, or the first special symbol storage area may be shifted with priority over the second special symbol storage area. Good.

(Step S311)
Next, the main CPU 101a stores the data (special symbol determination random number value, jackpot symbol random number value, small bonus symbol) written in the determination symbol storage area (the 0th storage unit) of the special symbol hold storage area in step S310-6. Jackpot determination processing is executed based on the random number for use. Details will be described later with reference to FIG.

(Step S312)
Subsequent to step S311, the main CPU 101a performs a variation pattern selection process.
The variation pattern selection process refers to a plurality of variation pattern determination tables (not shown) stored in advance in the main ROM 101b, and determines the jackpot determination result, the type of special symbol, the presence / absence of a short-time gaming state, the number of special symbol holds (U ), The variation pattern is determined based on the acquired reach determination random value and variation pattern random value.

(Step S313)
Subsequent to step S312, the main CPU 101a sets a variation pattern designation command corresponding to the determined variation pattern in the effect transmission data storage area.

(Step S314)
Subsequent to step S313, the main CPU 101a confirms the gaming state at the start of the change, and sets a gaming state designation command corresponding to the current gaming state in the effect transmission data storage area.

(Step S315)
Subsequent to step S314, the main CPU 101a starts the special symbol display on the special symbol display device 40 or 41. That is, when the information written in the processing area relates to the first hold, the first special symbol display device 40 blinks, and when the information relates to the second hold, the second special symbol display device 41 blinks.

(Step S316)
Subsequent to step S315, when the main CPU 101a starts the variation display of the special symbol as described above, the special symbol time counter sets the variation time (counter value) based on the variation pattern determined in step S312 to the special symbol time counter. Set to counter. The special symbol time counter is subtracted every 4 ms in step S110 (see FIG. 21).

(Step S317)
Subsequent to step S316, the main CPU 101a sets 00H to the demonstration determination flag. That is, the demonstration determination flag is cleared.

(Step S318)
Subsequent to step S317, the main CPU 101a sets the special symbol special electric processing data = 1, shifts the processing to the special symbol variation processing shown in FIG. 27, and ends the special symbol memory determination processing.

(Step S319-1)
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S310-4 that the first special symbol holding number (U1) storage area is not 1 or more, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not 01H is set in the demo determination flag. To do. At this time, if the demonstration determination flag is set to 01H, the main CPU 101a ends the special symbol storage determination process.

(Step S319-2)
If it is determined in step S319-1 that 01H is not set in the demo determination flag, the main CPU 101a does not set a demo designation command many times in step S319-3 described later. Set 01H to the demo judgment flag.

(Step S319-3)
Following step S319-2, the main CPU 101a sets a demonstration designation command in the effect transmission data storage area, and ends the special symbol memory determination process.

  The jackpot determination process will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S311-1)
First, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the high probability game flag is turned on in the high probability game flag storage area. The case where the high probability gaming flag is ON is a case where the current gaming state is a high probability gaming state.

(Step S311-2)
When the high probability gaming flag is turned on in step S311-1, that is, when it is determined that the current gaming state is the high probability gaming state, the main CPU 101a determines that the “high probability random number determination table”. Select.

(Step S311-3)
On the other hand, when the high probability gaming flag is not turned on in the above step S311-1, that is, when it is determined that the current gaming state is not the high probability gaming state (low probability gaming state), the main CPU 101a Select “Low probability random number determination table”.

(Step S311-4)
Next, the main CPU 101a uses the special symbol determination random number value written in the determination storage area (the 0th storage unit) of the special symbol hold storage area in step S310-6 (see FIG. 25) in step S311-2. Alternatively, the determination is made based on the “high probability random number determination table” or the “low probability random number determination table” selected in step S311-3.
More specifically, when the special symbol holding storage area shifted in step S310-6 is the first special symbol storage area, the jackpot determination table for the first special symbol display device of FIG. If the special symbol storage area shifted in step S310-6 is the second special symbol storage area, refer to the jackpot determination table for the second special symbol display device in FIG. Then, based on the special symbol determination random number value, it is determined whether it is “big hit”, “small hit”, or “lost”.

(Step S311-5)
Subsequent to step S311-4, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the jackpot determination is made as a result of the jackpot determination in step S311-4.

(Step S311-6)
If it is determined in step S311-5 that the game is a jackpot, the main CPU 101a determines the jackpot symbol random number value written in the determination storage area (the 0th storage unit) in the special symbol hold storage area in step S310-6. Is determined, a special symbol type (stop symbol data) is determined, and a jackpot symbol determination process for setting the determined stop symbol data in the stop symbol data storage area is performed.
Specifically, when the special symbol reserved storage area shifted in step S310-6 is the first special symbol storage area, the symbol determination table for the first special symbol display device (see FIG. 16A). ), When the special symbol storage area shifted in step S310-6 is the second special symbol storage area, the symbol determination table for the second special symbol display device (see FIG. 16A). ), Stop symbol data indicating the type of the special symbol to be stopped is determined based on the jackpot symbol random number value, and the determined stop symbol data is set in the stop symbol data storage area.
Note that the determined special symbol is used to determine “big hit” or “small hit” in the special symbol stop process of FIG. 28 as will be described later, as well as the big hit game process of FIG. 29 and the small hit of FIG. It is also used to determine the operating mode of the special winning opening 34 in the game process. Further, in the special game end process of FIG. 31, the game state and the specific game period after the jackpot end are set, and further, the specific game period after the end of the jackpot is set.

(Step S311-7)
Subsequent to step S311-6, the main CPU 101a generates an effect designating command corresponding to the special symbol for jackpot and transmits the effect transmission data to transmit the data corresponding to the special symbol to the effect control board 102. Set to area.

(Step S311-8)
Subsequent to step S311-7, the main CPU 101a determines the gaming state at the time of winning the big win from the information set in the gaming state storage area (the short-time gaming flag storage area, the high probability gaming flag storage area). Game state information indicating the game state is set in the game state buffer. Specifically, if both the short-time game flag and the high-probability game flag are not set, 00H is set. If the short-time game flag is not set but the high-probability game flag is set, 01H is set. If the short-time game flag is set but the high-probability game flag is not set, 02H is set. If both the short-time game flag and the high-probability game flag are set, 03H is set.
In this way, apart from the game state storage area (time-short game flag storage area, high-probability game flag storage area), the game state at the time of winning the jackpot is set in the game state buffer. Since the high-probability game flag and the short-time game flag in the state storage area (time-short game flag storage area, high-probability game flag storage area) are reset, after the jackpot ends, based on the game state at the time of winning the jackpot This is because the game state storage area cannot be referred to when determining the game state at the time of the big hit. As described above, by providing a game state buffer for storing game information indicating the game state at the time of winning the big hit, apart from the game state storage area, it is possible to refer to the game information in the game state buffer after the end of the big win Based on the gaming state at the time of winning the jackpot, it is possible to newly set a gaming state after the jackpot (such as a short-time gaming state and a short-time number of times).

(Step S311-9)
If it is not determined in step S311-5 that the game is a big hit, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the game is determined to be a big hit.

(Step S311-10)
If it is determined in step S311-9 that the game is a small hit, the main CPU 101a uses the small bonus symbol written in the determination storage area (the 0th storage unit) in the special symbol reserved storage area in step S310-6. The random number value is determined, the type of the special symbol is determined, and the small hit symbol determination process for setting the determined stop symbol data in the stop symbol data storage area is performed.
Specifically, referring to the symbol determination table of FIG. 16B, stop symbol data indicating the type of special symbol is determined based on the random number value for the small hit symbol, and the determined stop symbol data is used as the stop symbol. Set in the data storage area. In this embodiment, “small hit A” and “small hit B” have the same contents of the small hit game, but “small hit A” and “small hit B” have a special symbol display. The special symbols that are stopped and displayed on the devices 40 and 41 are different.

(Step S311-11)
Subsequent to step S311-10, in order to transmit data corresponding to the special symbol to the effect control board 102, the main CPU 101a generates an effect symbol designating command corresponding to the special symbol for the small hit, and transmits the effect transmission data. Set in the storage area.

(Step S311-12)
If it is not determined in step S311-9 that the game is a small hit, the main CPU 101a refers to the symbol determination table in FIG. 16C to determine a special symbol for losing and stops the determined losing The symbol data is set in the stop symbol data storage area.

(Step S311-13)
Subsequent to step S311-12, in order to transmit data corresponding to the special symbol to the effect control board 102, the main CPU 101a generates an effect symbol designation command corresponding to the special symbol for losing, and the transmission data storage area for the effect To set the jackpot determination process.

  The special symbol variation process will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S320-1)
First, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the variation time set in step S316 (see FIG. 25) has elapsed (whether special symbol time counter = 0). As a result, if it is determined that the variation time has not elapsed, the special symbol variation process is terminated and the next subroutine is executed.

(Step S320-2)
If it is determined in step S320-2 that the set time has elapsed, the main CPU 101a performs steps S311-7 and S311-11 in a routine process (big hit determination process) before the special symbol variation process. The special symbol set in S311-13 is stopped and displayed on the special symbol display devices 40 and 41. As a result, the jackpot determination result is notified to the player.

(Step S320-3)
Following step S320-2, the main CPU 101a sets a symbol determination command in the effect transmission data storage area.

(Step S320-4)
After the above step S320-3, when the main CPU 101a starts the special symbol stop display as described above, the main CPU 101a sets the symbol stop time (1 second = 1500 counter) in the special symbol time counter. The special symbol time counter is decremented by “1” every 4 ms in step S110.

(Step S320-5)
Subsequent to step S320-4, the main CPU 101a sets 2 in the special symbol special processing data, shifts the processing to the special symbol stop processing shown in FIG. 28, and ends the special symbol variation processing.

  The special symbol stop process will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S330-1)
First, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the symbol stop time set in step S320-4 has elapsed (whether special symbol time counter = 0). As a result, when it is determined that the symbol stop time has not elapsed, the special symbol stop process is terminated and the next subroutine is executed.

(Step S330-2)
If it is determined in step S330-1 that the special symbol time counter = 0, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not a flag is turned on in the time-saving game flag storage area. The case where the flag is turned on in the time-short game flag storage area is a case where the current game state is the time-short game state.

(Step S330-3)
If it is determined in step S330-2 that the flag is turned on in the time-saving game flag storage area, the main CPU 101a performs time-saving game end determination processing. Specifically, “1” is subtracted from (J) stored in the short-time game count (J) storage area and stored as a new remaining variation count (J), and the stored short-time game count (J) ) Is “0”, and if the number of short-time games (J) = 0, the flag stored in the short-time game flag storage area is cleared (OFF).

(Step S330-4)
If it is determined in step S330-2 that the flag is turned off in the time-saving game flag storage area, the main CPU 101a determines whether the flag is turned on in the high probability game flag storage area. The case where the flag is turned on in the high probability game flag storage area is a case where the current gaming state is a high probability gaming state.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S330-3 that the number of short-time games (J) is not 0, the main CPU 101a keeps the flag stored in the short-time game flag storage area ON. The process of S330-4 is executed.

(Step S330-5)
If it is determined in step S330-4 that the flag is turned on in the high probability game flag storage area, the main CPU 101a performs a high probability game end determination process. Specifically, “1” is subtracted from (X) stored in the high-probability game count (X) storage area and stored as a new high-probability game count (X). It is determined whether or not the number of times (X) is “0”. If it is determined that the number of times of high probability games (X) = 0, the flag stored in the high probability game flag storage area is cleared. (OFF).

(Step S330-6)
When it is determined in step S330-4 that the flag is turned off in the high probability game flag storage area, or when it is determined in step S330-5 that the number of high probability games (X) = 0 is not satisfied The main CPU 101a confirms the current gaming state and sets a gaming state designation command in the effect transmission data storage area.

(Step S330-7)
Following the step S330-6, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not it is a big hit. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the stop symbol data stored in the stop symbol data storage area is a jackpot symbol (stop symbol data = 01 to 06?).

(Step S330-8)
In step S330-7, when the jackpot symbol is not determined, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the jackpot symbol. Specifically, it is determined whether or not the stop symbol data stored in the stop symbol data storage area is a small hit symbol (stop symbol data = 07 to 10?).

(Step S330-9)
When it is determined in step S330-8 that the symbol is a small hit symbol, the main CPU 101a sets 4 to the special figure special electricity processing data, and moves the process to step S330-13.

(Step S330-10)
If it is determined in step S330-8 that the symbol is not a small hit symbol, the main CPU 101a sets 0 to the special symbol special electric processing data and shifts the processing to the special symbol memory determination processing shown in FIG.

(Step S330-11)
If the main CPU 101a determines in step S330-7 that the symbol is a jackpot symbol, the main CPU 101a sets 3 in the special chart special power processing data, and shifts the processing to the jackpot game processing shown in FIG.

(Step S330-12)
Following step S330-11, the main CPU 101a resets the gaming state and the number of time reductions. Specifically, the data in the high probability game flag storage area, the high probability game count (X) storage area, the short time game flag storage area, and the short time game count (J) storage area are cleared.

(Step S330-13)
Subsequent to step S330-9 or step S330-12, the main CPU 101a determines whether it is “long hit”, “short hit”, or “small hit” according to the stop symbol data. An opening command corresponding to the type is set in the effect transmission data storage area.

(Step S330-14)
Following the step S330-13, the main CPU 101a determines whether it is “long hit”, “short hit”, or “small hit” according to the stop symbol data, and the opening time according to these types Is set in the special game timer counter. The special game timer counter is subtracted every 4 ms in step S110. When this process ends, the special symbol stop process ends.

  The jackpot game process will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S340-1)
First, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not it is currently opening. Specifically, if “0” is stored in the round game count (R) storage area, it is currently being opened, so it is determined whether the round game count (R) storage area is currently open. To do.

(Step S340-2)
If it is determined in step S340-1 that the opening is currently in progress, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not a preset opening time has elapsed. That is, it is determined whether or not the special game timer counter = 0, and when the special game timer counter = 0, it is determined that the opening time has elapsed. As a result, when the opening time has not elapsed, the jackpot game process is terminated.

(Step S340-3)
If it is determined in step S340-2 that the opening time has elapsed, the main CPU 101a determines whether the winning is “long hit” or “short win” according to the stop symbol data. It determines and determines the open mode determination table according to the jackpot type.
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 18, depending on the stop symbol data, either the long hit release mode determination table (FIG. 19A) or the short hit release mode determination table (FIG. 19B). To decide.

(Step S340-4)
Subsequent to step S340-3, the main CPU 101a adds "1" to the current round game number (R) stored in the round game number (R) storage area and stores the result. In step S340-4, nothing is stored in the round game number (R) storage area. That is, since no round game has been performed yet, “1” is stored in the round game count (R) storage area.

(Step S340-5)
Subsequent to step S340-4, the main CPU 101a adds “1” to the current number of times of opening (K) stored in the number of times of opening (K) storage area and stores it.

(Step S340-6)
Subsequent to step S340-5, the main CPU 101a sets energization start data for the special prize opening / closing solenoid 34c. Thereby, the energization start data of the special winning opening / closing solenoid 34c is set, and the special winning opening / closing door 34b is opened.

(Step S340-7)
Subsequent to step S340-6, the main CPU 101a refers to the release mode determination table (see FIG. 19) determined in step 340-3 to determine the current round game number (R) and release number (K). Based on this, the opening time of the special winning opening 34 is set in the special game timer counter.

(Step S340-8)
Subsequent to step S340-7, the main CPU 101a transmits a special prize opening (R) round designation command for production in order to transmit information on the number of rounds to the production control board 102 in accordance with the number of round games (R). Set in the data storage area. In step S340-8, since the number of round games (R) is “1”, the special winning opening 1 round designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area.

(Step S340-9)
If it is determined in step S340-1 that the current opening is not in progress, the main CPU 101a determines whether the current ending is in progress. Ending here refers to processing after all preset round games have been completed.

(Step S340-10)
If it is determined in step S340-9 that the current ending is not in progress, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the special winning opening 34 is closed.

(Step S340-11)
When it is determined in step S340-10 that the special winning opening 34 is being closed, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the closing time set in step S340-20 to be described later has elapsed. Note that the closing time is also determined by whether or not the special game timer counter = 0 as in the opening time. As a result, when the closing time has not elapsed, the jackpot game process is terminated.

(Step S340-12)
When it is determined in step S340-11 that the closing time has elapsed, the main CPU 101a sets “1” to the current number of times of opening (K) stored in the number of times of opening (K) storage area. Is added and memorized.

(Step S340-13)
Subsequent to step S340-12, the main CPU 101a sets energization start data for the special prize opening / closing solenoid 34c. Thereby, the energization start data of the special winning opening / closing solenoid 34c is set, and the special winning opening / closing door 34b is opened.

(Step S340-14)
Subsequent to step S340-13, the main CPU 101a refers to the release mode determination table (see FIG. 19) determined in step 340-3 to determine the current round game number (R) and release number (K). Based on this, the opening time of the special winning opening 34 is set in the special game timer counter.

(Step S340-15)
Subsequent to step S340-14, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not K = 1, and if K = 1, in order to transmit information on the number of rounds to the effect control board 102, the round game Depending on the number of times (R), a special winning opening (R) round designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area. For example, if the number of round games (R) is “2”, a special winning opening 2 round designation command is set in the effect transmission data storage area. On the other hand, if K = 1 is not set, the jackpot game process is terminated without setting the big winning opening (R) round designation command in the effect transmission data storage area. In other words, the case where K = 1 means the start of a round, and therefore, the winning prize opening (R) round designation command is transmitted only at the start of the round.

(Step S340-16)
If it is determined in step S340-10 that the special winning opening 34 is not closed, the main CPU 101a determines whether the value of the special winning opening entry counter (C) has reached a predetermined number (for example, nine). Determine whether or not.

(Step S340-17)
In the above step S340-16, if the special winning opening entrance counter (C) has not reached the predetermined number, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the set release time has elapsed (special game timer counter = 0). Or not). At this time, if the set release time has not elapsed, the jackpot game process is terminated.

(Step S340-18)
If it is determined in step S340-17 that the set release time has elapsed, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the number of releases (K) is the maximum number of releases per round.

(Step S340-19)
In step S340-18, if the number of times of opening (K) is not the maximum number of times of opening per round, the main CPU 101a sets energization stop data of the big prize opening / closing solenoid 34c. As a result, the energization stop data of the special prize opening / closing solenoid 34c is set, and the special prize opening / closing door 34b is closed.

(Step S340-20)
Subsequent to step S340-19, the main CPU 101a refers to the release mode determination table (see FIG. 19) determined in step 340-3 to determine the current round game number (R) and release number (K). Based on this, the closing time of the special winning opening 34 is set in the special game timer counter.

(Step S340-21)
If it is determined in step S340-18 that the number of times of opening (K) is the maximum number of times of opening per round, the main CPU 101a sets the energization stop data of the big prize opening / closing solenoid 34c. As a result, the energization stop data of the special prize opening / closing solenoid 34c is set, and the special prize opening / closing door 34b is closed.
In step S340-16, the main CPU 101a also performs the process of step S340-21 even when the value of the special winning opening entrance counter (C) has reached a predetermined number.

(Step S340-22)
Subsequent to step S340-21, the main CPU 101a sets 0 in the number-of-releases (K) storage area and clears the number-of-releases (K) storage area.

(Step S340-23)
Subsequent to step S340-22, the main CPU 101a sets 0 in the winning prize opening number (C) storage area and clears the winning prize opening number (C) storage area.

(Step S340-24)
Subsequent to step S340-23, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the round game number (R) stored in the round game number (R) storage area is the maximum.

(Step S340-25)
When the round game number (R) is not the maximum in step S340-24, the main CPU 101a sets “1” to the current round game number (R) stored in the round game number (R) storage area. Is added and memorized.

(Step S340-26)
When it is determined in step S340-24 that the round game number (R) is the maximum, the main CPU 101a resets the round game number (R) stored in the round game number (R) storage area. .

(Step S340-27)
Subsequent to step S340-26, the main CPU 101a determines whether it is a big hit of "long win" or "short win" according to the stop symbol data, and effects control the ending command according to the type of big hit In order to transmit to the board | substrate 102, it sets to the transmission data storage area for productions.

(Step S340-28)
After step S340-27, the main CPU 101a determines whether the big hit is “long win” or “short win” according to the stop symbol data, and sets the ending time according to the type of the big hit to the special game. Set to timer counter.

(Step S340-29)
Following step S340-28, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the set ending time has elapsed. Even when it is determined in step S340-9 that the current ending is being performed, the main CPU 101a performs the process of step S340-29.
At this time, if it is determined that the ending time has not elapsed, the jackpot game process is terminated as it is.

(Step S340-30)
When it is determined in step S340-29 that the ending time has elapsed, the main CPU 101a sets 5 in the special figure special electric processing data (this causes a special game end process to be described later to be executed. 31).

  The small hit game processing will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S350-1)
First, the main CPU 101a determines whether an opening command has already been transmitted.

(Step S350-2)
If it is determined in step S350-1 that the opening command has not been transmitted, the main CPU 101a determines the small hitting release mode determination table (FIG. 19C).

(Step S350-3)
If it is determined in step S350-1 that the opening command has already been transmitted, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the opening command is currently being opened.

(Step S350-4)
If it is determined in step S350-3 that the opening is currently in progress, the main CPU 101a determines whether a preset opening time has elapsed. That is, it is determined whether or not the special game timer counter = 0, and when the opening timer counter = 0, it is determined that the opening time has elapsed. Further, as will be described later, it is determined in step 350-8 that the special winning opening 34 is being closed, and it is also determined whether or not the closing time set in step S350-14 has elapsed. Note that the closing time is also determined by whether or not the special game timer counter = 0 as in the opening time.
As a result, when the set time has not elapsed, the small hit game process is terminated.

(Step S350-5)
If it is determined in step S350-4 that the set time has elapsed, the main CPU 101a sets “1” to the current operation count (K) stored in the release count (K) storage area. Is added and memorized.

(Step S350-6)
Subsequent to step S350-5, the main CPU 101a starts energizing the big prize opening / closing solenoid 34c and opens the big prize opening / closing door 34b.

(Step S350-7)
Subsequent to step S350-6, the main CPU 101a refers to the small hitting release mode determination table (FIG. 19C) determined in step 350-2, and determines the large number of releases (K). The opening time of the winning opening 34 is set in the special game timer counter.

(Step S350-8)
If it is determined in step S350-3 that the opening is not currently in progress, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the special winning opening 34 is closed. At this time, if it is determined that the device is closed, the processing after step S350-4 is performed.

(Step S350-9)
When it is determined in step S350-8 that the special winning opening 34 is not closed, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the ending is currently in progress.

(Step S350-10)
If it is determined in step S350-9 that the current ending is not in progress, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the value of the special winning opening entrance counter (C) has reached a predetermined number (for example, 9). To do.

(Step S350-11)
If it is determined in step S350-10 that the number of winning prize entry counters (C) has not reached the predetermined number, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the opening time has elapsed (special game timer counter = 0). Or not). At this time, if the set opening time has not elapsed, the small hit game processing is terminated.

(Step S350-12)
If it is determined in step S350-11 that the set opening time has elapsed, the main CPU 101a has the maximum number of times of current operation (K) stored in the opening number (K) storage area. It is determined whether or not. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 19C, in the case of “small hit”, the maximum number of times of opening is 15.

(Step S350-13)
When it is determined in step S350-12 that the number of times of opening (K) is not the maximum number of times of opening, the main CPU 101a sets energization stop data for the big prize opening / closing solenoid 34c. As a result, the special winning opening 34 is closed.

(Step S350-14)
Subsequent to step S350-13, the main CPU 101a refers to the small hitting release mode determination table (FIG. 19C) determined in step 350-2, and closes based on the number of times of opening (K). Set the time in the special game timer counter.

(Step S350-15)
In step S350-12, when it is determined that the number of times of opening (K) is the maximum number of times of opening, or in step S350-10, it is determined that the big prize opening counter (C) has reached a predetermined number. When the main CPU 101a is set, the energization stop data of the special winning opening / closing solenoid 34c is set. As a result, the special winning opening 34 is closed.

(Step S350-16)
Following step S350-15, when the main CPU 101a determines that the number of times of opening (K) has reached the maximum, the main CPU 101a resets the number of times of opening (K) stored in the number of times of opening (K) storage area.

(Step S350-17)
Subsequent to step S350-16, the main CPU 101a clears the winning prize opening number (C) storage area.

(Step S350-18)
Subsequent to step S350-17, the main CPU 101a sets an ending command in the effect transmission data storage area in order to transmit information on the end of the small hit game to the effect control board 102.

(Step S350-19)
Subsequent to step S350-18, the main CPU 101a sets a counter corresponding to the ending time in the special game timer counter in the special game timer counter of the main RAM 101c.

(Step S350-20)
Following step S350-19 or in step S350-9, if it is determined that the current ending is in progress, the main CPU 101a determines whether the ending time has elapsed. If it is determined that the ending time has not elapsed, the small hit game process is terminated.

(Step S350-21)
If it is determined in step S350-20 that the ending time has elapsed, the main CPU 101a sets 0 to the special symbol special processing data (this causes the special symbol memory determination processing described above to be executed). 25).

  The special game end process will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S360-1)
First, the main CPU 101a loads the stop symbol data set in the stop symbol data storage area and the game information in the game state buffer.

(Step S360-2)
Next, the main CPU 101a refers to the jackpot end setting data table shown in FIG. 17, and based on the stop symbol data loaded in step S360-1 and the game information in the game state buffer, the high probability game at the end of the jackpot. Whether or not to set the high probability flag in the flag storage area is processed. For example, if the stop symbol data is “03” and the game information in the game state buffer is “02H”, the high probability flag is set in the high probability game flag storage area.

(Step S360-3)
Following the step S360-2, the main CPU 101a refers to the jackpot end setting data table shown in FIG. 17, and based on the stop symbol data loaded in the step S360-1 and the gaming information in the gaming state buffer, A predetermined number of times is set in the remaining variation number (X) storage area of the stochastic gaming state. For example, if the stop symbol data is “02” and the game information in the game state buffer is “03H”, 10000 times is set in the remaining variation count (X) storage area of the high probability game state.

(Step S360-4)
Following step S360-3, the main CPU 101a refers to the jackpot end setting data table shown in FIG. 17, and based on the stop symbol data loaded in step S360-1 and the game information in the game state buffer, Processing to determine whether or not to set the short-time game flag in the game flag storage area is performed. For example, if the stop symbol data is “02” and the data in the game state buffer is “00H” or “01H”, the time-short game flag is not set in the time-short game flag storage area, but the game in the game state buffer When the information is “02H” or “03H”, the time-short game flag is set in the time-short game flag storage area.

(Step S360-5)
Following step S360-4, the main CPU 101a refers to the jackpot end setting data table shown in FIG. 17, and based on the stop symbol data loaded in step S360-1 and the game information in the game state buffer, A predetermined number of times is set in the remaining change count (J) storage area of the gaming state. For example, when the stop symbol data is “03” and the data in the game state buffer is “00H”, 0 is set in the remaining change count (J) storage area of the short-time game state and the game state buffer is in the game state buffer If the game information is not “00H”, 10,000 is set in the remaining change count (J) storage area of the short-time game state.

(Step S360-6)
Following step S360-5, the main CPU 101a confirms the gaming state and sets a gaming state designation command in the effect transmission data storage area.

(Step S360-7)
Subsequent to step S360-6, the main CPU 101a sets 0 to the special symbol special electric processing data (the special symbol memory determination processing is thereby executed, see FIG. 25).

  The ordinary power transmission control process will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S401)
First, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not a predetermined fluctuation time is set in the normal symbol time counter. That is, it is determined whether or not the second start winning opening 31 is opened and controlled in the second mode (whether or not the second starting winning opening 31 is open).

(Step S402)
If it is determined in step S401 that the second start winning opening 31 is not open, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the normal symbol is being stopped.

(Step S403)
If it is determined in step S402 that the normal symbol is not being stopped, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the normal symbol is being changed.

(Step S404)
If it is determined in step S403 that the normal symbol variation display is not being performed, the main CPU 101a determines that the normal symbol hold count (G) stored in the normal symbol hold count (G) storage area is 1 or more. Determine if there is. When the number of holdings (G) is “0”, the normal symbol fluctuation display is not performed, and thus the normal map normal power control process is terminated.

(Step S405)
If it is determined in the above step S404 that the number of normal symbols held (G) is “1” or more, the main CPU 101a determines from the value (G) stored in the special symbol holding number (G) storage area. The new number of holds (G) obtained by subtracting “1” is stored.

(Step S406)
Subsequent to step S405, the main CPU 101a performs a shift process on data stored in the normal symbol storage area. Specifically, each data stored in the first storage unit to the fourth storage unit is shifted to the previous storage unit. At this time, the data stored in the previous storage unit is written into a predetermined processing area and is erased from the normal symbol holding storage area.

(Step S407)
Subsequent to step S406, the main CPU 101a determines the winning random number value stored in the normal symbol holding storage area (win determining process). When a plurality of winning random numbers are stored, the winning random numbers are read in the stored order.
Specifically, with reference to the hit determination table shown in FIG. 15C, it is determined whether or not the extracted hit determination random number value is checked against the above table. For example, according to the above table, one hit determination random value of “0” out of the hit random numbers “0” to “10” is determined to be a hit in the non-short-time gaming state, and the short-time gaming state For example, ten hit determination random numbers from “0” to “9” out of the hit random numbers from “0” to “10” are determined to be wins, and the other random numbers are determined to be lost.

(Step S408)
Following step S407, the main CPU 101a performs symbol determination processing.
In the symbol determination process, referring to the result of the determination of the winning random number in step S407, the winning symbol is set when it is determined to be a winning symbol, and the lost symbol is set when it is determined to be a losing symbol.
The winning symbol here is a symbol in which the LED is finally turned on in the normal symbol display device 42, and the lost symbol is a symbol in which the LED is finally turned off without being turned on. The winning symbol set is to store a command to turn on the LED in the normal symbol display device 42 in a predetermined storage area, and the lost symbol set is a command to turn off the LED in the normal symbol display device 42. Is stored in a predetermined storage area.

(Step S409)
Subsequent to step S408, the main CPU 101a performs normal symbol variation time determination processing. In the normal symbol variation time determination process, it is determined whether or not the flag is turned on in the short-time game flag storage area, and if it is determined that the flag is turned on in the short-time game flag storage area, the normal symbol time counter When the counter corresponding to 3 seconds is set and it is determined that the flag is not turned on in the time-saving game flag storage area, the counter corresponding to 29 seconds is set to the normal symbol time counter. By this process, the time for displaying the normal symbols is determined. The normal symbol time counter is subtracted every 4 ms in step S110. In addition, when the flag is turned on in the short-time game flag storage area, the game state is in the short-time game state, and when the flag is not turned on, the game state is a non-short-time game state. When it is.

(Step S410)
Subsequent to step S409, the main CPU 101a starts normal symbol variation display on the normal symbol display device. The normal symbol variation display means that the normal symbol display device 42 blinks the LED at a predetermined interval and gives the player an impression as if it is currently being drawn. The normal symbol variation display is continuously performed for the time set in the normal symbol variation time determination processing in step S409. When this process is finished, the ordinary power transmission control process is finished.

(Step S411)
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S403 that the normal symbol variation display is being performed, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the set variation time has elapsed. That is, the normal symbol time counter is subtracted every 4 ms, and it is determined whether the set normal symbol time counter is zero. As a result, if it is determined that the set variation time has not elapsed, it is necessary to continue the variation display as it is, so that the normal symbol variation process is terminated and the next subroutine is executed.

(Step S412)
When it is determined in step S411 that the set variation time has elapsed, the main CPU 101a stops the variation of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display device 42. At this time, the normal symbol (winning symbol or lost symbol) set in the symbol determination process of step S408 is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display device 42. As a result, the result of the normal symbol lottery is notified to the player.

(Step S413)
Subsequent to step S412, the main CPU 101a sets a normal symbol determination command in the effect electrical data storage area.

(Step S414)
When the normal symbol stop display is started as described above, the main CPU 101a sets the symbol stop time (1 second = 1500 counter) in the normal symbol time counter. The normal symbol time counter is subtracted by “1” every 4 ms in S110.

(Step S415)
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S402 that the normal symbol is stopped, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the normal symbol stop time set in step S414 has ended (normal symbol time counter). = 0). As a result, if the set normal symbol stop time has not ended, the general-purpose power control process ends.

(Step S416)
If the main CPU 101a determines in step S415 that the set normal symbol stop time has expired, the main CPU 101a stops the normal symbol displayed in step S415 (set in the symbol determination process in step S408). It is determined whether or not the normal symbol) is a winning symbol. If the set normal symbol is a losing symbol, the ordinary symbol power control process is terminated.

(Step S417)
In the above step S416, when the set normal symbol is a winning symbol, the main CPU 101a performs an open time determination process.
In the opening time determination process, first, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the short time game flag is turned on in the short time game flag storage area, and determines that the short time game flag is turned on in the short time game flag storage area. In other words, if the current gaming state is the short-time gaming state, a counter corresponding to 3.5 seconds is set in the public power open time counter.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the short-time game flag is not turned on in the short-time game flag storage area, that is, when the current game state is not the short-time game state, the normal power open time counter corresponds to 0.2 seconds. Set the counter.

(Step S418)
Subsequent to step S417, the main CPU 101a sets start winning port opening / closing solenoid energization start data. As a result, energization of the start winning opening / closing solenoid 31c is started, and the second starting winning opening 31 is opened and controlled to the second mode.

(Step S419)
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S401 that the second start winning opening 31 is being opened, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the normal power release time set in step S417 has elapsed. . That is, the normal power open time counter is subtracted every 4 ms, and it is determined whether or not the set normal power open time counter = 0. If the set public power open time has not elapsed, the general-purpose power control process is terminated.

(Step S420)
If it is determined in step S419 that the set normal power open time has elapsed, the main CPU 101a sets start winning port opening / closing solenoid energization stop data. As a result, the energization of the start winning opening / closing solenoid 31c is stopped, the second starting winning opening 31 returns to the first mode, and it becomes impossible or difficult to enter the game ball again.

  Next, the winning ball determination process will be described with reference to FIG.

(Step S501)
First, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not a game ball has been detected by any of the winning opening detection SWs 30a, 31a, 32a, and 34a. At this time, if it is determined that no winning hole is detected in any of the winning hole detection SWs, the process proceeds to step S515, and it is determined that the winning ball is detected by any of the winning hole detection SWs. In the case where it is determined, the main CPU 101a moves the process to the next step S502.

(Step S502)
Subsequent to step S501, the main CPU 101a receives a prize ball counter (general winning mouth prize ball counter, grand prize) updated by the above-described input control process (see FIG. 22) and step S230-2 (see FIG. 23). Checks the winning ball counter and the starting winning port winning ball counter), and performs a process for preparing the payout of the winning ball related to the winning port where the winning has been made (the winning ball payout preparation process). Specifically, a payout ball payout provided in a predetermined storage area in the main RAM 101c is provided with a flag (prize ball payout preparation flag) for preparing payout of a winning ball corresponding to the winning hole detection SW in which a winning ball is detected. Set in the preparation flag storage area. For example, when a winning ball is detected by the start winning hole detection SWs 30a and 31a, three winning ball payout preparation flags are set in the winning ball payout preparation flag storage area, and a winning ball is detected by the big winning hole detection SW 34a. If it is, 15 prize ball payout preparation flags are set in the prize ball payout preparation flag storage area.

(Step S503) (Step S515)
Following step S502, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the winning timer is currently being measured. At this time, if it is determined that the winning timer is being measured, the winning ball determination process is terminated, and if it is determined that the winning timer is not being measured, the process proceeds to the next step S504.
Also, in the above-described step S501, when it is determined by any winning opening detection SW that no winning is detected, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the winning timer is currently being measured. At this time, if it is determined that the winning timer is not being measured, the winning ball determination process is terminated. If it is determined that the winning timer is being measured, the process proceeds to the next step S505.

(Step S504)
Subsequent to step S503, the main CPU 101a starts measuring a winning timer. The winning timer is counted up when a winning ball is detected by each winning mouth detection SW. The maximum measurable time that can be measured by this winning timer is the time required for the game balls to enter the winning portion of the winning openings 30, 31, 32, and 34 before reaching the gathering section 38. A specified time that sufficiently exceeds the required time for the longest time (this is referred to as “the longest required time L”) is set. In the present embodiment, the prize winning opening that takes the longest time from the game ball entering the winning prize opening until reaching the gathering portion 38 is the general prize arranged on the left side of the front view in FIG. The entrance 32 is a winning entrance through which the game ball passes through the entrance passage C4, and the time required for the game ball entering the general winning entrance 32 to reach the gathering portion 38 is, for example, 5 seconds. ing. Therefore, the maximum measurable time that can be measured by the winning timer in this embodiment is 10 seconds.

(Step S505)
In step S505, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed. As the predetermined period, a time (for example, 7 seconds) longer than the longest required time L is set. At this time, if it is determined that the predetermined period has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S512. If it is determined that the predetermined period has not elapsed, the process proceeds to next step S506.

(Step S506)
Subsequent to step S505, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the error notification flag is turned on. The error notification flag is a flag that is turned ON / OFF in an error notification flag storage area provided in a predetermined storage area in the main RAM 101c. At this time, if it is determined that the error notification flag is ON, the process proceeds to step S514. If it is determined that the error notification flag is not ON, the process proceeds to the next step S507. .

(Step S507)
Subsequent to step S506, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not a game ball is detected by the gathering unit detection SW 38a. At this time, when it is determined that the game ball is not detected by the gathering part detection SW 38a, the award ball determination process is terminated, and when it is judged that the game ball is detected by the gathering part detection SW 38a, the next The process proceeds to step S508.

(Step S508)
Following step S507, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not a specific period has elapsed. As this specific period, the required time when the required time to reach the gathering section 38 is the shortest among the winning openings 30, 31, 32, 34 (this is referred to as "the shortest required time S"). Even a short time is set. In the present embodiment, the winning opening with the shortest time required for reaching the gathering section 38 after the game ball has entered the winning opening is the second starting winning opening 31, and the second starting winning opening The time required for the game ball entering the ball 31 to reach the gathering unit 38 is, for example, 2 seconds. For this reason, 1 second is set as the specific period. At this time, if it is determined that the specific period has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S513. If it is determined that the specific period has elapsed, the process proceeds to the next step S509.

(Step S509)
Subsequent to step S508, the main CPU 101a determines whether or not the error notification flag is ON. Since this process is the same as the process in step S506, description thereof is omitted. At this time, if it is determined that the error notification flag is ON, the process proceeds to step S514. If it is determined that the error notification flag is not ON, the process proceeds to the next step S510. .

(Step S510)
Subsequent to step S509, the main CPU 101a sets a prize ball payout command corresponding to the prize ball payout preparation flag set in step S502. The command set here is transmitted to the payout control board 103, and the payout control board 103 executes payout of the winning ball set in step S510.

(Step S511)
Following step S510, the main CPU 101a ends the measurement of the winning timer. As a result, the winning ball determination process ends.

(Step S512)
If it is determined in step S505 that the longest required time L has not elapsed, the main CPU 101a turns on the error notification flag.

(Step S513)
If it is determined in step S508 that the minimum required time S has not elapsed, the main CPU 101a turns on the error notification flag.

(Step S514)
If it is determined in step S506 or step S509 that the error notification flag is ON, the main CPU 101a sets an error notification command. The command set here is transmitted to the effect control board 102, and an “error notification” for notifying that a failure has occurred in the payout of the prize ball by the effect control board 102 is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 18, the audio output device 19, It is executed by various lamps. The “error notification” may be in any form that informs the game attendant of abnormality of the prize ball, for example, displaying “Error occurred in prize ball” or making a sound. At this time, the main CPU 101a turns off the error notification flag. Even after the error notification command is set, the measurement of the winning timer is ended in step S509.
The effect control board 102, the lamp control board 104, the image control board 105, the liquid crystal display device 18, the audio output device 19, and various lamps correspond to the prize ball abnormality occurrence notifying means of the present invention.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the “predetermined period” is set to a time that exceeds the longest required time L that takes the longest time required for the game balls that have entered each winning opening to reach the gathering part. Is done. For this reason, if a game ball stays due to an obstacle such as a ball clogging in the vicinity of the entrance paths A to D or the gathering portion 38, the gaming ball is collected by the gathering portion detection SW 38a after the longest required time L is exceeded. Even if is detected, the payout of the prize ball is executed. For this reason, the player may feel uncomfortable by taking measures such that all abnormalities that may occur when a game is played normally are determined to be illegal and the prize balls are not paid out. Can be avoided.

In addition, as the “specific period”, a time that is less than the shortest required time S at which the time required for the game balls that have entered the winning holes to reach the gathering unit 38 is the shortest is set. For this reason, even in a situation where the game ball that has passed through the entrance paths A to D is detected by the gathering portion detection SW 38a slightly before the shortest required time S, the winning ball is not judged as illegal. Can be paid out.
From these things, while being able to prevent an illegal act, it can be avoided as much as possible that it is judged as an illegal act with respect to the abnormality which may occur in a normal game.

  Next, the outline of the effect control board 102 will be briefly described.

  In the effect control board 102, based on the data transmitted from the main control board 101, a command related to effect data such as an effect pattern to be executed by the image control board 105 and the lamp control board 104 is determined, and the command is subjected to image control. Transmit to the board 105 and the lamp control board 104. When the command related to the above-described effect data is transmitted from the effect control board 102 to the image control board 105 and the lamp control board 104, the following control is performed on the image control board 105 and the lamp control board 104.

  When controlling the liquid crystal display device 18 on the image control board 105, the sound CPU reads out the sound output device control program from the sound ROM based on the received data, and controls the sound output in the sound output device 19. When data is transmitted from the effect control board 102 to the image control board 105, the image CPU reads a program from the image ROM, and controls image display on the liquid crystal display device 18 based on the received effect command.

  In the lamp control board 104, the effect actor device operation program is read based on the received data to control the operation of the effect agent device 36, and the effect illumination device control program based on the received effect data. And the lighting device for effect 9 is controlled.

(References to other embodiments)
The above embodiment is one form of the gaming machine 1 of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the described embodiment, and does not depart from the scope of the technical idea shown in the claims. It can be changed into various forms.

  In addition, although this embodiment demonstrated the case where one game ball entered, it is not restricted to this. For example, if a plurality of prize-winning timers are provided in advance and the game is performed by operating the prize-winning timer for each consecutively entered game ball, a plurality of game balls continuously enter one prize opening. Even in the case of a ball, the same effect as in the present embodiment can be obtained. In addition, if a dedicated winning timer is provided for each winning opening in advance, and each winning timer for which a winning is detected is measured by each winning timer, a plurality of winning balls are entered at the same time. Even in the case of a ball, the same effect as in the present embodiment can be obtained. In addition, when a large number of winning timers are not provided as described above, for example, when two winning timers are provided and there is further winning after a specific period elapses after the first winning is detected. In this case, the winning ball is paid out on condition that a game ball is detected by the gathering unit detection SW 38a after a specific period is exceeded by the winning timer which has been measured by the first winning ball. If there is a further entry after a specific period of time has been detected, a measurement with a winning timer (second winning timer) that is different from the winning timer that has been started by the first entry is made. It is assumed that a winning ball is paid out on condition that a game ball is detected by the gathering unit detection SW 38a when the time measured by the second winning timer is equal to or shorter than a predetermined period. Thus, for example, when a game ball continuously enters the same winning opening, or when a plurality of winning openings enter at the same time, it is possible to deal with the plurality or consecutive winning balls. Is possible. Therefore, the same effect as this embodiment can be achieved even when a plurality of game balls enter a single winning opening or when a gaming ball enters a plurality of winning openings at the same time. It becomes.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 30 1st start winning opening 31 2nd starting winning opening 32 General winning opening 34 Large winning opening 38 Collecting part 39 Collecting part guideway 60 Ball receiving part 70 Meandering part 80 Linear part 90 Discharge ball passage 30a 1 Start winning port detection SW
31a Second start winning opening detection SW
32a General prize opening detection SW
34a Large prize opening detection SW
38a Collecting part detection SW
38A Collecting flow path 39A Recesses A to D Entrance path L Longest required time S Shortest required time

Claims (5)

A plurality of winning holes provided in the gaming area and into which game balls launched toward the gaming area can enter; and a prize ball paying means for paying out a predetermined number of winning balls predetermined for each of the winning holes; A game machine comprising: control means for executing payout of a prize ball by the prize ball payout means when a game ball enters the prize opening;
Entry detection means for detecting that there has been an entry in the winning opening;
A entrance path through which game balls entered in the winning opening can pass;
A gathering unit for gathering game balls that have passed through the entrance path;
Collecting part detecting means for detecting game balls at the collecting part;
With
The control means includes
For each winning opening, a predetermined period exceeding the longest required time among the time required for the game balls that have entered the winning opening to pass through the entering passage and reach the gathering portion is set. ,
The prize ball is paid out by the prize ball paying means on condition that a game ball is detected by the gathering part detecting means within the predetermined period after the entrance is detected by the entrance detecting means. A featured gaming machine. The control means includes
A specific period that is less than the shortest minimum required time among the time required for the game balls that have entered the winning opening to pass through the entering passage and reach the gathering portion is set for each winning opening. With
The winning ball is paid out by the winning ball paying means on condition that a game ball is detected by the collecting unit detecting means after the specific period has elapsed since the entering detection by the entering detection means. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein: A prize ball abnormality notification means for notifying that an abnormality has occurred in the payout of the prize ball;
The control means includes
When no game ball is detected by the gathering unit detection means within the predetermined period after the entrance detection is detected by the entrance detection means, the prize ball is not paid out by the prize ball payout means. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the prize ball abnormality occurrence notifying means is notified. A prize ball abnormality notification means for notifying that an abnormality has occurred in the payout of the prize ball;
The control means includes
When a game ball is detected by the gathering unit detection means before the specific period has elapsed since the entry detection by the entry detection means, the payout of the prize ball by the prize ball payout means 3. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein notification by said prize ball abnormality occurrence notification means is executed without executing. A prize ball abnormality notification means for notifying that an abnormality has occurred in the payout of the prize ball;
The control means includes
When no incoming ball is detected by the incoming ball detecting means, and when a game ball is detected by the collecting unit detecting means, the prize ball abnormality occurs without causing the prize ball paying means to perform payout. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the notification by the notification means is executed.

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