JP2012065948A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To effectively execute each performance in a game machine which executes a start winning performance and a timer performance.SOLUTION: The game machine executes the start winning performance following a prescribed start winning performance pattern on the basis of the ball-in of a game ball to a start pocket, decides a specified start winning performance pattern from the plurality of stored start winning performance patterns, and starts the execution of the timer performance following a prescribed timer performance pattern when a measurement time by a timer means reaches a preset prescribed start time. The game machine also limits the specified start winning performance pattern being an object to be decided when it is determined that the prescribed start time comes during the execution of the start winning performance based on the measurement time obtained by the timer means.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly to a pachinko gaming machine.

  In the pachinko gaming machine, the start winning effect is executed with a predetermined effect pattern when the game ball enters the start port. In such a gaming machine, a gaming machine that produces an effect (timer effect) at a predetermined timing based on the elapsed time of the timer is known (for example, see Patent Document 1).

JP 2010-115305 A

  However, if the timing for executing the start winning effect overlaps with the timing for executing the timer effect, the effects of the respective effects are lowered, and there is a risk that the gaming interest will be reduced. In particular, when the contents of the effects of the start winning effect and the timer effect are similar (for example, when the same character or the same movable object is used), the effect of each effect is greatly reduced.

  Accordingly, it is an object to effectively execute the respective effects in the gaming machine that executes the start winning effect and the timer effect.

In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention provides:
Start winning effect execution means for executing a start winning effect according to a predetermined start winning effect pattern, based on a game ball entering a start port provided on the game board;
Start winning effect pattern storage means for storing a plurality of the start winning effect patterns;
Start winning effect pattern determining means for determining the predetermined start winning effect pattern from a plurality of the start winning effect patterns stored in the start winning effect pattern storage means;
Timer means for measuring time;
Timer effect execution means for starting execution of a timer effect according to a predetermined timer effect pattern when the time measured by the timer means reaches a predetermined start time set in advance,
The start winning effect pattern determining means, based on the time measured by the timer means, if the execution period of the start winning effect overlaps with a predetermined period before and after the predetermined start time, the predetermined start to be determined It is characterized by limiting the winning effect pattern.

  According to the present invention, when the timer effect and the start prize effect are executed in duplicate, the timer effect can be executed in preference to the start prize effect by restricting the appearance of a predetermined start prize effect. It is possible to prevent the timer effect and the start winning effect from being executed redundantly. As a result, it is possible to prevent a decrease in effect that can occur when the timer effect and the start winning effect are executed in an overlapping manner, and each effect can be executed effectively.

  Here, the “predetermined period before and after the predetermined start time” is set in advance as a time before and after the predetermined start time set by the timer means. And a predetermined period after reaching the start time. Further, the predetermined period before reaching the predetermined start time and the predetermined period after reaching the predetermined start time may be the same time or different times (whichever period is set longer) It doesn't matter) Alternatively, one period may be set to zero and only the other period may be set. For example, when 10 minutes before and 5 minutes after the predetermined start time are set as a predetermined period before and after the predetermined start time, the start timing of the start winning effect is determined as 12 minutes before the predetermined start time based on the timer means, When it is determined that the execution period of the start winning effect is 4 minutes, the predetermined start winning effect pattern to be determined is limited.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention,
The start winning effect pattern storage means includes a first start winning effect pattern including effects related to the timer effect pattern, and a second start winning effect not including effects related to the timer effect pattern. I remember the production pattern,
The start winning effect pattern determining means limits the specific start winning effect pattern to be determined by determining the second start winning effect pattern as the predetermined start winning effect pattern. .

  Thereby, it is possible to prevent the specific effect of the content related to the timer effect from being executed in the start winning effect. As a result, it is possible to effectively prevent a reduction in the rendering effect due to the repeated execution of the specific performance related to the timer performance. Note that the “production of related contents” includes, for example, an effect that operates the same effect member, an effect that causes the same character to appear on the effect display device, and an effect that uses the same background color.

  As another invention, the start winning effect pattern determining means may limit a predetermined start winning effect pattern to be determined as long as it is a predetermined pre-start period before reaching a predetermined start time.

  In this way, during the predetermined period before the start of the timer effect, the start prize effect pattern to be determined is uniformly limited so that the start prize effect pattern is determined when the start prize effect pattern is determined. It is not necessary to determine whether the start time of the timer effect comes during execution, and the control for determining the start winning effect pattern can be simplified.

  Further, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the timer effect executed by the timer effect executing means is related to the timer effect executed by other game machines and is a common effect executed simultaneously. It is characterized by being configured as.

  According to the present invention, the timer effect is a common effect that is simultaneously executed among a plurality of gaming machines by restricting the execution of the start winning effect during the predetermined period before the start time of the timer effect. It becomes easier for the player to recognize.

  According to the above configuration of the present invention, each effect can be effectively executed in the gaming machine that executes the start winning effect and the timer effect.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment to which the present invention is applied. It is a front view of a game board. It is a front view of a central apparatus. It is a timing chart which shows the execution timing of a common effect. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of an electronic controller. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a main job. It is a flowchart which shows the first half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the second half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows a start winning process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol fluctuation | variation display process. It is a flowchart which shows a hit game process. It is a flowchart which shows a process at the time of a hit game end. It is a flowchart which shows a common production | presentation execution process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the change of the production | presentation display apparatus accompanying the progress of a common production. It is a flowchart which shows a start winning effect execution process. It is a block diagram of the game system which consists of several game machines with which a common effect is performed. It is a block diagram which shows the modification of the game system which consists of several game machines with which a common effect is performed. It is a front view of the game board provided with the stage production device. It is a block diagram which shows the modification of the game system which consists of several game machines with which a common effect is performed. It is a block diagram which shows the modification of the game system which consists of several game machines with which a common effect is performed.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following, a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter simply referred to as a gaming machine) of a type (so-called “seven machine type”) in which a jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed in response to the end of the special symbol variation display, and the jackpot game is triggered by this. Examples to which the present invention is applied will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the front portion of the gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame 2, a middle frame 3, a front frame 4, an upper plate portion 5, a lower plate portion 6, a locking device 9, a game board 20, and the like. In FIG. 1, detailed illustration of the game board 20 is omitted. Further, the middle frame 3 is not clearly shown in FIG. 1 because the front frame 4 and the like are arranged on the front side.

  The outer frame 2 is a wooden plate-like body assembled into a substantially rectangular frame shape. The middle frame 3 is made of plastic and constitutes the main body frame of the gaming machine 1. The middle frame 3 is fitted inside the outer frame 2 and is pivotally supported at the left end so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 2. The middle frame 3 includes a frame body portion that occupies about 2/3 of the upper side and a lower plate portion that occupies about 1/3 of the lower side. The game board 20 and the front frame 4 are provided so as to overlap each other on the front side of the frame body part, and the upper plate part 5 and the lower plate part 6 are provided on the front side of the lower plate part. Note that the game board 20 is detachably attached to the frame body portion (the middle frame 3). The lower plate portion is provided with a launcher unit (not shown) constituting launching means for launching a game ball onto the game board 20, and a ball feeder (not shown) for supplying the game ball to the launcher unit.

  The front frame 4 is disposed on the front side of the middle frame 3 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. The front frame 4 is made of plastic, and a circular opening 4a is formed in order to make the board surface of the game board 20 arranged on the back side visible. A substantially rectangular transparent plate frame (not shown) including a transparent plate such as a glass plate corresponding to the opening 4a is attached to the back surface of the front frame 4. Lamps such as LEDs (not shown) are provided around the game board 20 in the front frame 4. These lamps are turned on / off or blinking as the game progresses in order to enhance the gaming effect.

  The upper plate part 5 is provided on the lower side of the front frame 4 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. The upper dish part 5 includes a dish outer edge part 5a, a discharge port 5b for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1, and a ball release button 5c for discharging the game balls of the upper dish part 5 to the lower dish part 6. It has. On the upper surface of the dish outer edge portion 5a, an effect button 5d (one mode of operation means), a ball lending button 5e, and the like are provided.

  The lower plate part 6 is provided below the upper plate part 5. A discharge port 6 a for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1 to the lower plate portion 6 is provided in the approximate center of the lower plate portion 6. An ashtray 7 is provided at the left end of the lower dish portion 6. At the right end of the lower plate part 6, a launching handle 8 is provided for a player to operate a launching device unit (not shown). The firing handle 8 is provided with a touch switch 8a as contact detection means (contact detection sensor) for detecting that the player is touching. On the left side surface of the launch handle 8, a launch stop switch 8b that is operated by the player to temporarily stop the launch of the game ball is disposed.

  The locking device 9 is provided at the center of the right end of the middle frame 3 and is used to lock the front frame 4 when it is closed.

  Further, the gaming machine 1 is provided with speakers 10a to 10d for generating sound effects and the like corresponding to the gaming state. The speakers 10 a to 10 d are composed of upper speakers 10 a and 10 b provided at the upper part of the gaming machine 1 and lower speakers 10 c and 10 d provided at the lower part of the gaming machine 1. Further, a prepaid card unit 13 (CR unit) is mounted on the left side of the gaming machine 1.

  Next, the surface structure of the game board 20 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 20. The game board 20 is a substantially rectangular wooden plate-like body and is detachably attached to the middle frame 3, and its back side is covered by a back mechanism board (not shown).

  As shown in FIG. 2, a substantially circular game area 21 is formed on the game board 20 by an outer rail 22 and an inner rail 23 provided on the surface (board surface) of the game board 20. In the gaming area 21, gaming devices such as a central device 24, a normal symbol operating gate 28, a special winning device (special electric accessory) 33, a starting port 29, winning ports 34, 35, 36, and 37 are arranged. Yes. In addition, a number of obstacle nails are arranged in the game area 21 in consideration of the position balance with each gaming device.

  The central device (center accessory) 24 is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game area 21. The central device 24 is mainly composed of a symbol display device 25 and a fixed decorative member 26. In this embodiment, a large liquid crystal display device is used as the symbol display device 25, and various effects are displayed in the display area of the symbol display device 25. Although not shown, the symbol display device 25 is provided with a normal symbol display area for displaying normal symbols, a special symbol display area for displaying special symbols, and the like. The fixed decorative member 26 is provided so as to surround the display area of the symbol display device 25. The inner periphery of the fixed decorative member 26 is slightly smaller than the display area of the symbol display device 25. For this reason, when viewed from the front, a part of the inner periphery side of the fixed decorative member 26 overlaps the display area of the symbol display device 25. Further, as shown by a broken line in FIG. 2, the effect member 100 is provided on the back side of the fixed decorative member 26.

  FIG. 3 is a front view of the central device 24 and shows a state in which the game board 20 is removed. As shown in FIG. 3, the central device 24 is provided with a fixed decorative member 26 around the symbol display device 25. The central device 24 is provided with a frame member 27 for fixing the fixed decorative member 26 and the symbol display device 25 to the game board 20. In the frame member 27, the fixed decorative member 26 is fixed on the front surface side, and the symbol display device 25 is fixed on the back surface side. The frame member 27 is fixed to the back side of the game board 20. The fixed decorative member 26 is located on the front side of the game board 20 (side closer to the player).

  On the back side of the fixed decorative member 26, the effect member 100 is provided. The effect member 100 is configured as a movable accessory whose position and shape can be changed. The effect member 100 is configured as a movable decorative member. The effect member 100 corresponds to the outside of the display area of the symbol display device 25, the “storage position” in which part or all of the effect member 100 cannot be visually recognized, and the whole (corresponding to the entire display area of the symbol display device 25). Image) can be moved to an “exposed position” where it can be visually recognized. In FIG. 3, the production member 100 at the storage position is indicated by a diagonal line rising to the right. The storage position of the effect member 100 is the upper left corner of the frame member 27 when viewed from the front, and the exposure position of the effect member 100 is near the center of the display area of the symbol display device 25.

  Further, the display surface of the symbol display device 25 is located on the back side of the game board 20, and the effect member 100 is disposed between the display surface of the symbol display device 25 and the game board 20. Then, the effect member 100 is stored in the storage space on the back side of the game board 20 and the fixed decorative member 26 in the storage state described later in the storage position, so that the effect member 100 is stored in the game board 20 and the fixed decorative member 26. Hidden, the whole picture is invisible. In the present embodiment, the production member 100 is slightly larger than the storage space even in the contracted state, so that most (90% or more) of the production member 100 is stored and cannot be visually recognized, but the production member 100 is also produced in the storage position. A part of the member 100 (less than 10% of the whole and is incapable of grasping the whole image) is exposed (see FIG. 3). The portion of the effect member 100 exposed at this storage position has a design common to the surrounding fixed decorative member 26 where the exposed portion is located, and is unified in design and does not give the player a sense of incongruity. And the decoration around the display area of the symbol display apparatus 25 is comprised with the fixed decoration member 26. FIG.

  That is, by making the design of the fixed decorative member 26 and the exposed portion of the effect member 100 common, it is difficult to distinguish both. Accordingly, the storage space can be reduced, and the player can be provided with the same effect (impact) as storing all of the effect member 100 in the impact when it appears at the second position.

  The effect member 100 is provided with a plurality of blade members. The plurality of blade members are in a reduced state in which they overlap each other at the storage position, and can be transformed from the reduced state to an enlarged state in which each overlap is released at the exposed position. “Release the overlap” means that the overlapped portion in the reduced state is not overlapped. Each blade member of the effect member 100 has a substantially arc shape with a central angle of 120 °, and the outer peripheral portion has a shape imitating a petal. The expanded blade member has a shape imitating a sunflower flower.

  Returning to FIG. 2, the normal symbol operating gate 28 is provided on the left side of the central device 24. Inside the normal symbol operation gate 28, a normal symbol operation gate detection switch 28s (see FIG. 5) for detecting the passage of the game ball is provided. In the normal symbol display area, when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 28, the normal symbol starts to fluctuate in the normal symbol display area of the symbol display device 25, and after the predetermined time has elapsed, the normal symbol is set in advance. The display is stopped by a combination of symbols or a combination of symbols. When the normal symbol is hit and displayed as a combination of symbols, the start port (ordinary electric accessory) 29 is opened for a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds).

  The start port 29 is provided below the central position of the central device 24. The starting port 29 is an arrangement in which two entrances formed with game ball receiving ports for receiving game balls flowing down on the surface of the game board 20 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction, and a first starting port provided on the upper side. 29a and a second starting port 29b provided on the lower side.

  The first starting port 29a is configured as a fixed starting port in which the size of the game ball receiving port does not change and the possibility of entering the game ball is constant, and the game ball can always be entered. It has become. On the other hand, the second starting port 29b is a so-called tulip type and has a pair of wing pieces on the left and right, and the upper end gap between the pair of wing pieces serves as a game ball receiving port. The pair of wing pieces are each opened and closed by tilting in the left-right direction. By this opening and closing operation, the second starting port 29b is the size of the game ball receiving port of the pair of wing pieces. It is configured as a variable starter that changes.

  Inside the start port 29, there are a start port entrance detection switch 29s (see FIG. 5) for detecting the entrance of a game ball, and a start port solenoid 29c (see FIG. 5) for operating a pair of wing pieces. Is provided. The start opening ball detection switch 29s is composed of two types of switches: a switch that detects a game ball that has entered the first start opening 29a and a switch that detects a game ball that has entered the second start opening 29b. Yes. When the pair of wing pieces of the second start port 29b are opened to the left and right, the size of the game ball receiving port of the second start port 29b is enlarged from the normal time, and the second start port 29b is It becomes an open state where the possibility of entering the ball is increased. On the other hand, when the pair of wing pieces are erected, the size of the game ball receiving port of the second start port 29b is slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball (one game ball can pass). The second start port 29b is in a normal state (closed state) in which the possibility of entering a game ball is reduced (or entry is impossible). When the game ball enters the first start port 29a or the second start port 29b, a special symbol described later starts to fluctuate.

  The big prize device 33 is disposed below the start port 29. Here, the special winning device 33 includes a special winning opening 33a opened in a belt shape, an opening / closing plate 33b for opening / closing the special winning opening 33a, and a large winning opening solenoid 33c (for operating the opening / closing plate 33b). 5) and an incoming ball detection switch 33s (see FIG. 5) for detecting an incoming game ball.

  A left winning opening 34, 35, 36 and a right winning opening 37 are provided on the diagonally upper left and the diagonally upper right of the large winning device 33. Each of these winning openings is provided with a winning opening entering detection switch (not shown).

  In the special symbol display area of the symbol display device 25, when the game ball enters the start port 29, the special symbol starts to fluctuate, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the special symbol is stopped and displayed as a winning symbol or a missing symbol.

  In the present embodiment, a plurality of winning symbols are set. Specifically, “first probability variable big hit symbol”, “first normal big hit symbol”, “second probability variable big hit symbol”, “second normal big hit symbol” "," Small hit design "is set. As will be described later, the “first probability variable jackpot symbol” and the “first normal jackpot symbol” are jackpot symbols for starting the execution of the first jackpot game with the number of jackpot rounds of 15 rounds. The “second normal jackpot symbol” is a jackpot symbol that starts the execution of the second jackpot game with two rounds of jackpot rounds. Therefore, the “first normal jackpot symbol”, “first normal jackpot symbol”, “second probability variable” The “big hit symbol” and the “second normal big hit symbol” are also referred to as “15R probability variable big hit symbol”, “15R normal big hit symbol”, “2R probability variable big hit symbol”, and “2R normal big hit symbol”, respectively.

  In the present embodiment, a special symbol success / failure determination random number is provided that is acquired when a game ball enters the start port 29 and is used to determine whether or not to execute a jackpot game (special game). Yes. Furthermore, a special symbol determining random number for determining a stop symbol of the special symbol is provided.

  As the game ball enters the start port 29, a special symbol success / failure determination random number and a special symbol determination random number are acquired, and the acquired special symbol success / failure determination random number and special symbol determination random number are stored in the main control unit 200. Is stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM.

  The special symbol success / failure determination random number is set with a hit value for success / failure determination, and the special symbol success / failure random number acquired at the timing when the game ball enters the first start port 29a or the second start port 29b. Is determined to be a big hit if it matches the big hit value (hit winning value). The special symbol success / failure determination is performed when the special symbol starts the variable display.

  When the special symbol success / failure determination random number matches the winning value, it is determined to be a big hit, and the special symbol that is stopped and displayed in the special symbol display area is determined to be a big hit symbol (probability big hit symbol or normal big hit symbol). On the other hand, if the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is not a big hit (losing to the big hit lottery), the special symbol success / failure random number used for the determination (the random value lost to the big hit lottery) It is determined whether or not it matches (winning value lottery), and if it matches, it is determined that the game is a small hit, and the special symbol that is stopped and displayed in the special symbol display area is determined as the small bonus symbol. Also, if the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is neither big hit nor small hit, the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is out of order, and the special symbol that is stopped and displayed in the special symbol display area is determined to be out of symbol.

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when a game ball enters the first start port 29a or the second start port 29b and a special symbol random number is reserved, the reserved special symbol random number is a big hit game. A big hit pre-determination process (holding pre-reading) is performed to determine whether or not it is generated (whether or not the winning is held) when the holding occurs. In the big hit pre-determination process, when a game ball enters the first start port 29a or the second start port 29b and a special symbol random number is put on hold, in other words, the first start port 29a or the second start port 29b. When the jackpot lottery random number acquired when the game ball enters the game is stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200, it is held prior to the jackpot lottery (special symbol success / failure determination) Whether or not the big hit lottery random number is “hit hold” that generates a big hit is determined when the hold occurs. In addition, in the big hit pre-determination process, whether or not the type of winning hold is “probable hitting on hold” that generates a probable big hit using the special symbol determining random number acquired at the same time as the big hit lottery random number (special symbol determining random number) Whether the jackpot symbol determined in step 2 is a probable variation jackpot symbol) or “normal hit hold” that generates a normal hit (whether the jackpot symbol determined by the special symbol determination random number is a normal jackpot symbol) Is also done.

  The big hit prior determination process is performed using the low probability lottery table when the probability variation function is not activated, and is performed using the high probability lottery table when the probability variation function is activated. Also, if the special symbol random number that is the target of the jackpot pre-determination process is probable per hit, the probability variation function will be activated after the big hit game started due to this probable hit hold, The jackpot pre-determination process for the special symbol random numbers held after the probability change hold is performed using the high probability lottery table. On the other hand, if the special symbol random number that is the target of the big hit pre-determination process is a normal hit, the probability variation function does not operate after the big hit game started due to the normal hit hold, A jackpot pre-determination process is performed on the special symbol random numbers held after the normal winning hold using the low probability lottery table.

  The special symbol is configured to change and display according to a predetermined change pattern. This variation pattern defines the variation time of the special symbol and the presence / absence of the reach effect in the variation (effect content). The variation pattern of the special symbol is selected by lottery from a variation pattern table in which a plurality of variation patterns are stored when the big hit lottery is executed. A plurality of special symbol variation pattern tables are prepared, and each is selected and used in accordance with the gaming state (special symbol variation mode).

  Next, the jackpot game (special game) will be described. When the special symbol stopped and displayed in the special symbol display area is a hit special symbol (when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit), the main control unit 200 is a big hit game that is relatively advantageous to the player ( Special game) is started. The big hit game is to give a player a profit (prize ball) with respect to entering the game ball into the big prize opening 33a by operating the big prize device 33, in other words, by opening and closing the big prize opening 33a a plurality of times. It is.

  During the big hit game (during special game), the big prize device 33 is operated, and a predetermined number of prize balls (for example, 15 for one pitch) according to the number of game balls entered into the big prize opening 33a. Award balls). Specifically, at the start of the big hit game, the big prize opening device (special electric accessory) 33 is continuously operated, and the big prize opening opening / closing operation for switching the big prize opening 33a between the open state and the closed state is continuously performed a plurality of times. Done. With the start of the operation of the special winning device 33, the special winning opening 33a is opened. This open state is ended when a predetermined end condition is established, and the open special winning opening 33a is closed. As a predetermined end condition, when the opening time of the big winning opening 33a reaches a predetermined time (30 seconds or 0.2 seconds in this embodiment), or the number of game balls that have entered the opened big winning opening 33a is It may be when the predetermined number (10 in this embodiment) is reached.

  When it is assumed that one round is from the start to the end of the open state of the big winning opening 33a, the big hit game is ended by performing a predetermined number of rounds. In the grand prize winning device 33, after the opening of the big prize winning opening 33a is finished, that is, after a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) has passed since the big winning prize opening 33a is closed, the big winning prize opening 33a is again opened. Round begins. The opening / closing operation of the grand prize winning opening 33a in which one round is from the start to the end of the big winning opening 33a is continuously repeated until the predetermined maximum number of continuous rounds is completed.

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, two types of jackpot games are provided according to the type of jackpot symbol. Specifically, when the jackpot symbol is the first jackpot symbol ("first normal jackpot symbol" or "first probability variable jackpot symbol") (special symbol success / failure judgment result is the first normal jackpot symbol or the first probability variation jackpot) In the case of the game), the “first big hit game” occurs. And, if the big hit symbol is the second big hit symbol ("second probability variable big hit symbol" or "second normal big hit symbol") (special symbol success / failure determination result was the second normal big hit symbol or the second positive variable big hit symbol) ), A “second big hit game (second probability variable big hit game, second normal big hit game)” occurs. Note that the second big hit game constitutes a specific hit game together with a small hit game described later.

  These first and second big hit games differ in the opening time (specified time) of the big winning opening 33a for one round. The opening time of the first jackpot game big winning opening 33a (the first big hit game big winning opening opening time) is a prescribed number (10) of entering the big winning opening 33a and the execution of the winning ball payout associated therewith. It is set as a time when the possibility is extremely high, and is preferably 25 to 30 seconds. In this embodiment, it is set to 26 seconds. The opening time of the big winning hole 33a for the second big hit game (the big winning hole opening time for the second big hit game) is a specified number (10) of the balls to the big winning hole 33a and the execution of the winning ball payout associated therewith. It is set as a time when the possibility is extremely low, and is preferably 0.1 second to 6 seconds, and is set to 0.2 seconds in this embodiment. It should be noted that the maximum continuation round number of the first jackpot game is set to 15 rounds, and the maximum continuation round number of the second jackpot game is set to 2 rounds. Based on the number of rounds of the first big hit game and the second big hit game, the “first probability variable big hit” is also called “15R probability big hit”, the “first normal big hit” is also called “15R normal big hit” “Two probability variation big hit” is also called “2R probability variation big hit”, and “second normal big hit” is also called “2R normal big hit”.

  Note that the opening / closing operation of the big prize opening relating to the second big hit game and the small hit game (specific hit game) is an opening time that is difficult for a game ball to enter, that is, an instant opening / closing operation that instantly opens and closes. It can be an action. In addition, the opening / closing operation (opening time) of the big winning opening relating to the second big hit game and the small winning game (specific hit game) may be an opening time shorter than the opening time of the big winning opening relating to the first big win game. it can.

  In the gaming machine of this embodiment, after the big hit game is finished, a specific game (so-called short-time game and probability variable game) in which the variable time shortening function, the open time extending function, and the probability varying function are activated is started. The variable time shortening function, the opening time extending function, and the probability varying function operate by setting the fluctuation shortening flag, the opening extension flag, and the probability changing flag to ON, respectively. The fluctuation time shortening function, the open time extension function, and the probability fluctuation function are realized by the control of the main control unit 200, and the main control unit 200 corresponds to the probability setting means of the present invention.

  When the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a normal jackpot (the special symbol stop symbol is the first normal jackpot symbol or the second normal jackpot symbol), after the jackpot game ends, the variable time shortening function and the second start port 29b The opening time extension function for extending the opening time starts to operate, and the short time game is started. The short-time game is realized by the control of the main control unit 200. The fluctuation time reduction function includes a normal figure fluctuation time reduction function for reducing the fluctuation time of a normal symbol and a special symbol for reducing the fluctuation time of a special symbol. The figure fluctuation time reduction function is included. By the activation of the opening time extension function, the opening time of the second start port 29b is extended from the first opening time (for example, 0.5 to 1 second) to the second opening time (for example, 4 to 6 seconds). The As a result, the frequency of entering the game ball into the second starting port 29b is higher than that at normal time (when the opening extension function is not activated). The fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function operate after the big hit game is finished until the next big hit game is started, or until the number of fluctuations of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number (100 times in this example). .

  If the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a probable big hit (the stop symbol of the special symbol is the first probable big hit symbol or the second probable big hit symbol), after the big hit game is over, the probability variation function will start and Be started. The probability variation game is realized by the control of the main control unit 200. In this probability variation game, the probability variation function that changes (improves) the probability of the special symbol success / failure determination, that is, the probability that the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the jackpot symbol. Operates. The probability variation function of this embodiment operates together with the variation time shortening function and the open time extending function.

  While the probability variation function is in operation, the probability of winning or failing determination increases, so that the probability that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination becomes a big hit is improved. Specifically, a normal probability success / failure determination table and a high probability success / failure determination table in which the number (type) of hit values is increased as compared with the normal probability success / failure determination table. During normal games (when the probability variation function is inactive), the normal probability determination table is used to determine whether or not, and during probability change games (when the probability variation function is in operation), a high probability determination table is used. Make a pass / fail decision. As a result, during the probability variation game (when the probability variation function is activated), the winning probability (the winning probability of the special symbol success / failure determination) becomes a high probability state.

  The probability variation function operates after the jackpot game is over until the next jackpot game is started. In this embodiment, the maximum execution period of the probability variation game is set until the number of fluctuations of the special symbol after the big hit game reaches 10,000 times until the next big hit game is substantially started. .

  When the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is the second big hit (the special symbol stop symbol is the second probability variable big hit symbol or the second normal big hit symbol), when the big hit game starts (second positive variable big hit symbol or the second normal big hit symbol) The operating state of the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function is maintained. That is, when the variation time shortening function and the opening time extension function are activated at the start of the big hit game, the variation time shortening function and the opening time extension function are activated even after the big hit game ends. On the other hand, if the fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function are not activated at the start of the big hit game, the fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function are not activated even after the big hit game ends.

  Therefore, when a big hit game is triggered by the stop indication of the second probability variable big hit symbol, the probability variation function is activated after the second big hit game ends with a short operation time of the big winning opening 33a and / or a low number of operations. In addition to the operation, the operating state of the open time extension function when the big hit game is generated is maintained. In this case, the probability variation function starts operating without changing the operating state of the starting port 29 (lower starting port 29b) that can be visually recognized by the player. In addition, when a big hit game is generated in response to the stop display of the second normal big hit symbol, the probability variation function is activated after the second big hit game ends with a short operation time of the big winning opening 33a and / or a low number of operations. It does not operate (the operation is terminated if it is activated), and the operation state of the open time extension function when the big hit game is generated is maintained. From this, it is possible to make it difficult for the player to recognize whether or not the probability variation function is activated after the second big hit game is over. In this way, a state in which the player has made it difficult to recognize that the probability variation function is operating is referred to as a `` probability non-informing state '', and a state in which the probability variation function is operating in the `` probability non-informing state '' It is called “latency probability variation state (internal probability variation state)”.

  In this “probability non-notification state”, a probability non-notification period in which the probability variation function is not operated is continued for a predetermined period after the end of the second big hit game.

  Next, the small hit game will be described. When the special symbol stopped and displayed in the special symbol display area is a small hit symbol (when the result of the small hit lottery is a small bonus), the main control unit 200 starts the small hit game. The small hit game is a hit game that is started by setting the small hit game flag to ON, and constitutes a specific hit game together with the second big hit game. In the small hit game, the big prize device 33 operates in the same manner as the second big hit game described above. In the small hit game according to the present embodiment, the large winning opening 33a is configured to be opened twice for 0.2 seconds, and the possibility that a game ball enters the large winning opening 33a is extremely low, so that the winning ball is paid out. The gaming state is not substantially accompanied. In addition, after the small hit game is completed, the operation state of the probability changing function and the open time extending function when the small hit game is generated (when the small hit symbol is stopped and displayed) is maintained.

  In the small hit game, since the operation of the second big hit game and the big prize device 33 is the same mode, the player can open and close the big winning opening 33a twice in a short time (a big winning opening opening pattern in the second big hit game) ) Cannot be discriminated whether the second big hit game or the small hit game has occurred. For this reason, it is possible to make it more difficult to recognize whether or not the probability varying function is activated after the operation of the big winning device 33 is finished (after the second big hit game or the small hit game is finished). Thus, the probability non-notification state can be made more effective due to the presence of the small hit game.

  It should be noted that the probability non-notification state that occurs after the first big hit game, the second big hit game, and the small hit game ends is realized by the control of the main control unit 200.

  Next, common effects will be described. The “common effect” is an effect in which a plurality of gaming machines 1 simultaneously start effects of the same content at the same timing, and is also referred to as “timer effect”. The common effects include not only the completely identical effect modes in each gaming machine 1 but also the effect modes that are mutually related in each gaming machine 1 (the player can recognize some relationship).

  As for the common effect, an effect having the same content is performed in the effect display device 25 of each gaming machine 1. In the common effect of the present embodiment, an effect having contents related to a specific effect described later is performed. Specifically, as a common effect, in the display area of the effect display device 25 of each gaming machine 1, the effect member 100 appears on the front surface, the background color changes to a common color, or a common character appears. You can make it. The gaming machine 1 that is the target of the common effect may be a gaming machine group including a plurality of gaming machines 1 that are arranged side by side and / or facing each other in the island facilities of the gaming hall, for example. In the present embodiment, the plurality of gaming machines 1 where the common effects are performed are configured such that the control units (main control unit 200, sub-control unit 260, etc.) of each gaming machine 1 independently control the common effects. ing.

  In this embodiment, each gaming machine 1 starts a common performance at a predetermined start time, but the end timing of the common performance is different for each gaming machine 1, and the gaming machine 1 that is not in the latent probability changing state has a predetermined condition. In the gaming machine 1 that is in the latent probability changing state, the common effect is continued until the end of the execution period. The gaming machine 1 in the latent probability changing state performs the probability changing notification effect (probability notification effect) for notifying that the hit probability is in the high probability state at the end of the execution period of the common effect, and ends the common effect. To do. In addition, when a win is made during execution of the common performance, it is notified whether the lottery probability is high or low before starting the hit game, during the hit game, or after the hit game ends. Probability notification effects can also be made.

  In addition, when the common effect is executed, but there is no game machine that is in the latent probability changing state, the common effect is sequentially terminated every time the predetermined condition is satisfied (the random number lottery is won, the number of times the special symbol is changed, etc.). Even after the last gaming machine finishes the common effect, the probability change notification effect is not executed.

  FIG. 4 is a timing chart showing the execution timing of the common effect. As shown in FIG. 4, in the present embodiment, the game machine 1 is performed on the basis of power-on or the end of the previous common performance. Specifically, after the power is turned on to all the gaming machines 1, the execution of the first common effect is started when a first predetermined time t1 (20 minutes in this embodiment) elapses. Then, after the end of the first common effect, the execution of the second common effect is started when a second predetermined time t2 (20 minutes in this embodiment) elapses. In the present embodiment, since the end timing of the common effect is different for each gaming machine 1, the second common effect is the second predetermined time t2 (this implementation) after the first common effect ends for all the gaming machines 1. It starts when 20 minutes) in the example. The third and subsequent common effects are also started in the same manner as the second common effect.

  The sub-control unit 260 performs the execution of the common effect (timer effect), the measurement of the elapsed time from the power-on that triggers the start of the common effect (timer effect), and the elapsed time from the end of the previous common effect. Is called. For this reason, the sub-control unit 260 corresponds to the timer means and timer effect executing means of the present invention.

  Next, the start winning effect performed based on the game ball entering the start port 29 will be described. In the start winning effect, a symbol variation effect in which the effect symbol is variably displayed along with the special symbol variation display, and a specific effect using the effect member 100, the character image, and the background image are performed.

  First, the symbol variation effect using the effect symbol will be described. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, an effect symbol display unit 25 a for displaying effect symbols is provided in the display area of the effect display device 25. When the effect member 100 is in the stored state (see FIG. 2), the effect symbol display unit 25a is largely provided near the center of the display area of the effect display device 25, and when the effect member 100 is in the exposed state (see FIG. 2). 3) is provided small in the lower right of the display area of the effect display device 25.

  The effect symbol of the effect symbol display unit 25a is displayed in conjunction with the special symbol in the special symbol display area. Moreover, the site | part except the effect design display part 25a among the display screens of the effect display apparatus 25 is a background display area in which various background designs including a character, a figure, a symbol, a character, etc. are displayed. As described above, since the effect display device 25 is arranged in the center of the game board 20, the player usually pays attention to the display content (particularly the effect symbol) in the display area of the effect display device 25 and plays the game. Will be done.

  In this embodiment, a three-digit number symbol consisting of “1” to “9” is used as the effect symbol, and the effect symbol display unit 25a displays a right symbol display area in which the right symbol is displayed, and a middle symbol. The middle symbol display area and the left symbol display area where the left symbol is displayed are composed of three symbol display areas. Each symbol display area has a symbol variation direction set in a direction substantially orthogonal to the arrangement direction of these display areas, in this case, in the vertical direction (vertical direction).

  When the special symbol is displayed in the special symbol display area, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed on any of the symbols, the directing symbol is a symbol corresponding to the special symbol's stop symbol. Stopped display. Thereby, the result ("winning" or "disappearing") of the special symbol winning / failing determination is notified by the effect symbol. In the production design, a combination of even symbols with the same three digits corresponds to the first normal jackpot symbol of the special symbol, and a combination of odd symbols with the same three digits corresponds to the first positive variable jackpot symbol of the special symbol, other than the jackpot symbol The combination of symbols corresponds to the special symbols. And, out of symbols, winning combinations such as “1, 2, 3”, etc., odd numbers, such as “1, 3, 5”, and unreachable combinations such as “7, 6, 7”, etc. Chance symbols (so-called chance eyes), which are predetermined specific out-of-design symbols other than symbols, also correspond to special symbols of special symbols (second normal big hit symbol, second probability variable big hit symbol, small hit symbol) . Thus, in this embodiment, when the special symbol is any one of the second normal big hit symbol, the second probability variable big hit symbol, and the small hit symbol, the stop display mode of the effect symbol is the same. For this reason, it is not possible to determine the result of the special symbol success / failure determination ("winning" or "displacement") and the type of winning (second positive variation big hit, second normal big hit, small hit) according to the effect symbols. In addition, it can be estimated that the special symbol may have become one of the second normal big hit symbol, the second probability variable big hit symbol, or the small hit symbol due to the stop of the chance symbol.

  Next, the specific effect of the start winning effect will be described. In the present embodiment, as a specific effect, a jackpot notice effect for informing the result of the jackpot determination process described above (possibility of occurrence of a jackpot) is performed. A specific effect (a jackpot notice effect) is performed in conjunction with a symbol variation effect (effect symbol variation display) performed by the effect display device 25. The specific effect (a jackpot notice effect) is an effect related to the above-mentioned common effect. Specifically, as a specific effect, in the display area of the effect display device 25, the effect member 100 appears on the front surface, the background color changes to a predetermined color (for example, red), or a predetermined character appears. Or Thereby, it can be shown in advance that the result of the current symbol variation effect or the result of the symbol variation effect (the result of the jackpot lottery) performed in accordance with the subsequent reservation is a big hit.

  The start winning effect (the symbol variation effect and the specific effect) includes a variation start command (a variation pattern designation command and a stop information designation command) transmitted from the main control unit 200 at the start of variation of the special symbol, and a game to the start port 29. It is configured to be performed under the control of the sub-control unit 260 based on the start winning command transmitted from the main control unit 200 when entering the ball. In other words, the sub-control unit 260 performs selection of the contents of the effect performed in the start winning effect and execution of the start winning effect. The ROM of the sub control unit 260 stores a plurality of start winning effect patterns. For this reason, the sub-control unit 260 corresponds to the start winning effect execution means and the start winning effect pattern storage means of the present invention.

  The start winning effect (design variation effect, specific effect) is executed according to a specific start winning effect pattern selected and determined from a plurality of start winning effect patterns. There are multiple start winning effect patterns, and each effect pattern is different in design variation effect pattern (effect pattern variation pattern), execution type of specific effect (big hit notice effect) or whether or not to execute Yes. The start winning effect pattern is set at the start of the symbol variation effect (at the start of variation of the effect symbol) based on the determination result of the special symbol and the jackpot advance determination result.

  Of the start winning effects, an effect pattern of effect variation (effect pattern variation pattern) is set based on the result of determining whether or not the special symbol is correct. The variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 indicates the variation pattern of the special symbol. Specifically, the variation pattern special time, the presence / absence of reach production, etc. The contents are shown. The main control unit 200 determines a variation pattern of the special symbol at random (by random number lottery) according to the determination result of the special symbol. Then, based on the variation pattern of the special symbol determined by the main control unit 200, the sub-control unit 260 determines an effect pattern (effect pattern variation pattern) of the symbol variation effect. Further, the stop information designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 indicates a special symbol stop symbol, and the main control unit 200 determines whether the special symbol is determined according to the result of the special symbol determination. A stop symbol is determined at random (by random number lottery). Then, based on the stop information designation command indicating the stop symbol of the special symbol determined by the main control unit 200, the sub control unit 260 determines the stop symbol of the effect symbol to be stopped and displayed on the effect symbol display unit 25a.

  The type of execution or the presence / absence of execution of a specific effect (a jackpot notice effect) among the start winning effects is set at the start of the symbol variation effect (at the start of variation of the effect symbol) based on the result of the jackpot prior determination. Specifically, when the big hit determination result is an affirmative result (hit hold for generating a big hit), a specific effect is executed. On the other hand, when the big hit determination result is a negative result (outgoing hold that does not generate a big hit), the specific effect is not executed. However, when the big hit determination result is a negative result (out of hold without generating a big hit), there are a case where the specific effect is not executed and a case where the specific effect is executed as so-called “gase”.

  In the present embodiment, a plurality of start winning effect patterns are prepared for each of a plurality of variable times, and when the specific start winning effect pattern is determined from the plurality of start winning effect patterns, the execution time of the above-mentioned common effect is determined. Based on the (predetermined start time), the start winning effect patterns to be determined are limited, and some start winning effect patterns are excluded from the determination targets. Specifically, when determining the start winning effect pattern before starting the execution of the common effect, it is determined that a predetermined start time for starting the common effect during the execution of the start winning effect is reached with reference to the variation time. In this case, the specific start winning effect pattern to be determined is limited. The limitation of the start winning effect pattern to be determined (exclusion of some start winning effect patterns) is performed by determining only the effect pattern of the start winning effect that does not include the specific effect related to the common effect. That is, when the execution of the common effect is started during the execution of the start winning effect, the execution of the specific effect related to the common effect among the start winning effects is restricted. Here, the “specific effect related to the common effect” means, for example, a specific effect in which the effect member 100 operates when the operation (appearance) of the effect member 100 is selected as the common effect. . When a predetermined character image appears as a common effect, the specific effect in which the predetermined character image appears is limited.

  In another embodiment, when the start winning effect is started during the predetermined start period before the common effect starts to be executed, the start winning effect pattern to be determined is limited, and the specification related to the common effect is specified. Only the start winning effect pattern that does not include an effect can be determined. In the “pre-start period”, a time (for example, 5 minutes) longer than the effect time (for example, 4 minutes) of the start winning effect pattern having the longest effect time among the plurality of start winning effect patterns is set. As described above, the first common effect is started when the first predetermined time t1 (20 minutes in this embodiment) has elapsed since the power is turned on. The start of execution of related specific effects is limited. The second and subsequent common effects are started when the second predetermined time t2 (20 minutes in the present embodiment) has elapsed since the last common effect was completed on all the gaming machines 1, so that all the common effects are all performed. For 15 to 20 minutes after the game machine 1 is finished, the execution start of the specific effect related to the common effect is restricted.

  Thus, based on the execution time of the common effect, by limiting the start winning effect pattern to be determined (only the start prize effect pattern that does not include the specific effect related to the common effect is determined), When the common effect starts, it is possible to prevent a situation where the start winning effect including the specific effect related to the common effect has already been executed. As a result, it can be prevented that the execution time of these effects overlaps and the effect of the common effects is reduced. The common performance that is executed simultaneously in the gaming machine group is because, for example, the production members 100 appear all at once at the same time. If there is a gaming machine in which 100 has already appeared, the impact of the common performance that occurs at the same time (the appeal to the player) will be reduced.

  In addition, during the predetermined period before the start of execution of the common effect, the start prize effect pattern is being executed when determining the start prize effect pattern by uniformly limiting the start prize effect pattern to be determined. Therefore, it is not necessary to determine whether or not the start time of the common effect comes, and the control for determining the start winning effect pattern can be simplified.

  Moreover, the impact when a common effect is performed can be heightened by not making the specific effect relevant to a common effect appear in all the game machines for a fixed period. The predetermined period can be a predetermined period set before and after the execution time (predetermined start time) of the common effect (corresponding to “a predetermined period before and after the predetermined start time”). This period includes a predetermined period before the execution time of the common effect and a predetermined period after the execution time of the common effect. In addition, the predetermined period before the execution time of the common effect and the predetermined period after the execution time of the common effect may be the same time or may be different times (whichever period is longer It can be set). Alternatively, one period may be set to zero and only the other period may be set. For example, the predetermined period before the execution time of the common effect can be set for 10 minutes, and the predetermined period after the execution time of the common effect can be set to 0. In addition, when the 10 minutes before and 5 minutes after the execution time of the common effect are set as a predetermined period before and after the execution time of the common effect, the start timing of the start winning effect is 12 minutes before the predetermined start time based on the timer means. When it is determined that the execution period of the start winning effect is 4 minutes, the predetermined start winning effect pattern to be determined is limited. In addition, while the common effect is being executed on any of the gaming machines 1 in the gaming machine group (or during a predetermined common effect execution period regardless of whether or not the common effect is ended in the middle). In each gaming machine 1 constituting the gaming machine group, the execution of the start winning effect including the specific effect related to the common effect can be restricted.

  Next, the electronic control device of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the electronic control unit.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the electronic control unit includes a main control unit 200 and sub-control units 230, 260, and 280 connected to the main control unit 200. The sub control unit includes a payout control unit (prize ball control unit) 230, a sub control unit 260, and an effect display control unit 280. The main control unit 200 includes a main control board 200a, and the sub control units 230, 260, and 280 include a payout control board 230a, a sub control board 260a, and an effect display control board 280a, respectively, as peripheral control boards. Each of these control boards and other boards (a power board, a relay board, a drive board, a decoration board, an amplifier board, an effect button board, etc.) are arranged on the back side of the gaming machine 1.

  Each control unit 200, 230, 260, 280 is supplied with power from a main power source (not shown). Further, when the power is turned on, a system reset signal is transmitted to each control unit 200, 230, 260, 280. Note that the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment includes a backup power supply unit (not shown) that supplies an operating voltage to the main control unit 200 and the payout control unit 230 when the power is turned off. 200 and RAM data of the payout control unit 230 are held.

  The main control unit 200 constitutes a main control unit that controls the progress of the entire game. The main control unit 200 transmits command signals (command data) instructing processing contents to the sub control units 230 and 260, and each sub control unit 230. 260, 280 are configured to perform various controls based on the command signal.

  The CPU 200b of the main control board 200a constituting the main control unit 200 includes a CPU core, a built-in RAM (hereinafter simply referred to as RAM), a built-in ROM (hereinafter also simply referred to as ROM), etc., and is stored in the ROM. The control program controls operation of the entire gaming machine 1 (basic progress control of the game) using the RAM as a work area. Further, the main control unit 200 is configured by a CPU 200b as a main body to determine whether or not a special symbol is determined (hit lottery) by a determination program stored in the ROM. Further, the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 determines a specific variation pattern from the variation pattern table of the special symbol stored in the ROM when executing the special symbol validity determination. Note that the control cycle of the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 of this embodiment is set to 2 ms.

  A board input relay board 201 and a board output relay board 202 are connected to the main controller 200. The board input relay board 201 is connected with a normal symbol operation gate detection switch 28 s, a start entrance ball detection switch 29 s, and a grand prize entrance entrance detection switch 33 s so that these signals are input to the main control unit 200. It is configured. The board output relay board 202 is connected to a start opening solenoid 29c and a special prize opening solenoid 33c, and a control signal from the main control section 200 is output. Further, although not shown, the main control unit 200 is connected to a frame external terminal board having an external connection terminal for connection to an external device, and the main control unit 200 is connected to the external device. Signal output is possible. As described above, the main control unit 200 of each gaming machine 1 is connected to the main control unit 200 of another adjacent gaming machine 1 via the external terminal board.

  The payout control board 230a constituting the payout control unit 230 includes a CPU 230b having the same configuration as the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200. To the payout control unit 230, the launch control unit 250, the CR unit 13, and the like are connected. From the main control unit 200 to the payout control unit 230, commands such as a prize ball instruction command for instructing a prize ball payout, a game start permission signal for instructing a game start permission, and various launch control commands are transmitted. Various launch control commands include ball feed permission / prohibition, launch permission / prohibition, game start permission, and the like.

  When the CPU 230b of the payout control board 230a receives a prize ball instruction command from the main control unit 200, the CPU 230b of a game ball payout device (not shown) provided on the back side of the gaming machine 1 based on the number of prize balls indicated by the command. By paying off the payout motor, game balls are paid out (prize ball payout) for the designated number of prize balls. In this game ball payout (prize ball payout), game balls stored in a game ball tank (not shown) provided on the upper back side of the gaming machine 1 are supplied to a game ball payout device via a game ball rail (not shown). Then, the supplied game ball is discharged by rotating the payout motor of the game ball payout device.

  The firing control unit 250 is connected to a touch switch 8a, a firing stop switch 8b, and the like, and operation signals are input from these switches 8a and 8b. The CR unit 13 is connected to a ball lending button 5e and receives a ball lending signal.

  The sub-control unit 260 constitutes sub-control means for controlling various effects executed as the game progresses. The sub-control board 260a has a CPU 260b, a ROM, a RAM (not shown), an input / output port, etc. Circuit components and a sound generator are provided, and are connected to the main controller 200 at the input / output ports. The sub-control unit 260 is configured to control production using decoration display by various lamps, sound effects output from the speakers 10a to 10d, symbol display by the symbol display device 25, and the like.

  Various lamp control commands and various audio control commands are transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260. Various symbol control control commands for instructing display control of the effect symbols are transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the effect display control unit 280 via the sub-control unit 260. Various effect display control commands for instructing effect display control are simultaneously transmitted from the sub control unit 260 to the effect display control unit 280.

  An effect display control unit 280 is connected to the sub control unit 260. The effect display control board 280a is provided with arithmetic circuit components (not shown) having a CPU 280b, RAM, ROM, input / output port, VDP (video display processor), etc., and connected to the sub-control board 260 at the input / output port. ing. The effect display control unit 280 is connected to the symbol display device 25. The effect display control unit 280 is configured such that the CPU 280b performs display control of the symbol display device 25 using the RAM as a work area according to a control program stored in the ROM. The ROM of the effect display control unit 280 stores a plurality of effect image data (such as the image data relating to the above-described variation effect) displayed on the symbol display device 25.

  Various LEDs and lamps 262 are connected to the sub-control unit 260 via a decorative drive board 261. The various LEDs / lamps 262 are for enhancing the gaming effect, and these lamps are turned on / off or blinking in accordance with the progress of the game to enhance the gaming effect. In addition, an amplifier substrate 263 is connected to the sub-control unit 260. Speakers 10 a to 10 d are connected to the amplifier substrate 263. From the speakers 10a to 10d, various sounds, sounds, and the like are output in accordance with the progress of the game. Further, the effect button 5 d is connected to the sub-control unit 260 via the effect button board 264.

  The sub-control unit 260 selects various LED / lamp lighting / flashing patterns based on various commands from the main control unit 200 and the production button 5d (reception of a production pattern designation command, input of a production button operation signal, etc.). An execution process, a selection / output process of sound effect data output from the speakers 10a to 10d, an effect display pattern selection / execution process on the symbol display device 25, and the like are performed.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described based on a flowchart. FIG. 6 is an example of a main job performed under the control of the main control unit 200. The main job shown in FIG. 6 is executed by the CPU 200b mounted on the main control board 200a based on a program stored in a ROM (not shown) (an internal ROM of the CPU 200b or a ROM mounted on the main control board 200a). After the power-on process S100, each step of the game start process S200, the normal symbol game process S300, the normal electric accessory game process S400, the special symbol game process S500, and the winning game process S600 is reset by the timer (this implementation) It is repeatedly executed every 4 ms in the example. In the power-off generation process S50, when a power-off occurs due to a power failure or the like, the used registers and stack pointers are saved, the payout motor is stopped, and so on, and when a system reset occurs, the process proceeds to the power-on process S100. It has become.

  The power-on process S100 is performed when the power is turned on and when the power is restored after the power is cut off. When the power is turned on, a RAM initialization process or the like is performed, and when the power is turned off, the game state is restored. The return setting is performed. In the game start process S200, detection of various switch states, update of various random numbers, prize ball payout control, and the like are performed.

  In the normal symbol game processing S300, first, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol is appropriate, and it is determined whether the normal symbol is to be stopped and displayed in the normal symbol display area. Next, after setting the normal symbol fluctuation display time, the normal symbol fluctuation display is started. When the variable display time has elapsed, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed with the determined symbol, and when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed, the operation of the normal electric accessory is started (second start-up). The mouth 29b is opened). In the normal symbol game process, the normal symbol variation display and stop display are performed as described above, and when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a winning symbol, the second start port 29b is activated. When the second start port 29b is actuated, the pair of blade pieces open to the left and right, and the second start port 29b is opened.

  In the ordinary electric accessory game process S400, it is determined whether or not the opening time for maintaining the second start port 29b in the open state has elapsed. If the open time has not elapsed, the second start port 29b is defined. It is determined whether or not a winning number has been won. When it is determined that the predetermined number of winnings has been won at the second starting port 29b in the open state, or when it is determined that the opening time of the second starting port 29b in the open state has elapsed, a pair of The blade piece is closed, and the second start port 29b is in a normal state (closed state).

  Next, the special symbol game process S500 will be described based on the flowcharts of FIGS. First, a start opening winning process is performed (S501). Here, the start opening winning process (S501) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  In the starting port winning process (S501), it is determined whether or not a winning (game ball has entered) has been won in the starting port 29 (first starting port 29a or second starting port 29b) (S501a), and the starting port 29 has been won. If it is determined that it has not been made (S501a: NO), the start port winning process (S501) is terminated, and the process proceeds to S504 in FIG. On the other hand, when it is determined that the start opening 29 has been won (S501a: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of special symbol reservations is less than 4 (S501b). As a result, when it is determined that the number of special symbol reservations is not less than 4 (4 or more) (S501b: NO), the start opening winning process is terminated and the process proceeds to S502 in FIG. 7A. If it is determined that the number of special symbol hold is less than 4 (S501b: YES), a special symbol random number is acquired (S501c). The special symbol random numbers include a jackpot lottery random number, a special symbol determination random number (a jackpot symbol determination random number), a reach random number, and the like. By acquiring the special symbol random number, the number of special symbol hold increases by one.

  Next, a prior determination process is executed (S501d). In the pre-determination process, it is pre-determined whether the special symbol random number acquired in the process of S501c is a random number corresponding to “hit hold” that causes the big hit game to start. As described above, this prior determination is performed according to the current setting status of the winning probability of the jackpot lottery. If the probability is high, the high probability lottery table is used, and if the probability is low, This is done using a low probability lottery table. Then, the special symbol random number acquired in S501c and the pre-determination result are stored in a predetermined area (pre-determination result storage unit) of the RAM (S501e), and a start winning prize command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S501f). The “start winning prize command” includes a number-of-holds designation command for designating the number of special symbols to be held, a pre-judgment result command indicating a big hit pre-judgment result, etc. It may consist of commands.

  Next, returning to FIG. 7A, it is determined whether or not the big hit game is being played (whether the big hit game flag or the small hit game flag is ON) (S504). As a result, if it is determined that the game is a hit game (the big hit game flag or the small hit game flag is ON) (S504: YES), the special symbol game process is terminated and the big hit game is not played (the big hit game) If it is determined that the flag and the small hit game flag are OFF) (S504: NO), it is determined whether or not the special symbol is changing (S505).

  As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol is changing (S505: YES), the process proceeds to S509 described later, and when it is determined that the special symbol is not changing (S505: NO). Then, it is determined whether or not it is during the special symbol stop display time (S506). Here, the stop display time of the special symbol is a time for determining the special symbol stopped and displayed. In this embodiment, the stop display time of the special symbol is “1 second”. If it is determined that it is during the special symbol stop display time (S506: YES), the process proceeds to S512 described later, and if it is determined that it is not during the special symbol stop display time (S506). : NO), it is determined whether or not the number of special symbol hold is zero (S507).

  As a result, when it is determined that the number of special symbol hold is zero (S507: YES), the special symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the number of special symbol reservations is not zero (S507: NO), special symbol variation display processing is performed (S508).

  Here, the special symbol variation display process will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, the random number for determining whether or not the special symbol is stored in the predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (the random number for determining whether or not the game ball has entered the starting port 29) is read (S508a). ), Special symbol winning / failing determination is performed (S508b). In the special symbol success / failure determination, if the probability variation function is operating (probability change game), the determination of success / failure at the time of probability variation, that is, the determination of success / failure is made in a state where the probability that the determination result is a big hit (high probability state). If it is determined that the probability variation function is not in operation (during normal game), it is determined whether or not there is a non-probability change, that is, whether the determination result is a big hit (low probability state). I do.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit (S508c). As a result, when it is determined that it is a big hit (S508c: YES), a big hit fluctuation pattern table setting process is performed (S508d), a fluctuation pattern determination random number is obtained, and a predetermined area (holding) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 is obtained. The random number for determining the big hit symbol stored in the storage area is read (S508e).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S508c that the game is not a big hit (S508c: NO), a lottery lottery is performed using a special symbol success / failure determination random number that is determined not to be a big hit, and the result is a big hit. It is determined whether or not (S508m). As a result, when it is determined that the game is a small hit (S508m: YES), a small hit variation pattern table setting process is performed (S508n), and a variation pattern determination random number and a small hit symbol determination random number are acquired (S508o). On the other hand, when it is determined that it is not a small hit (S508m: NO), a deviation variation pattern table setting process is performed (S508f), and a variation pattern determination random number and a failure symbol determination random number are acquired (S508g).

  Next, a variation pattern and a stop symbol of the special symbol are determined (S508h). As the special symbol variation pattern, a specific variation pattern is selected from the variation pattern table set in one of S508d, S508n, and S508f using the special symbol variation pattern determination random number acquired in S508e, S508o, and S508g. . The stop symbol of the special symbol is a probabilistic big hit symbol using the big hit symbol determining random number read in S508e, the small hit symbol determining random number read in S508o or the losing symbol determining random number acquired in S508g. Usually, it is determined as either a big hit symbol or a missed symbol.

  Next, according to the stop symbol and variation pattern determined in S508h, the variation display of the special symbol is started in the special symbol display area (S508i), and a symbol variation start command (variation pattern designation command and stop information is sent to the sub-control unit 260. (Designated command) is transmitted (S508j). The variation pattern designation command is a command for designating the variation pattern of the special symbol set in S508h, and the stop information designation command is a command for designating the special symbol stop symbol. When the symbol variation start command (variation pattern designation command and stop information designation command) is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260, the symbol variation effect (effect) is controlled under the control of the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 that have received these commands. Symbol variation display) is started. Then, 1 is subtracted from the number of special symbol reservations (S508k). The processing up to this point is when the special symbol variation display is started.

  Next, returning to FIG. 7A, if it is determined in S505 that the special symbol is changing (S505: YES), whether or not the changing display time of the changing special symbol has elapsed. Is determined (S509). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol variation display time has not elapsed (S509: NO), it is determined that the special symbol game processing is terminated and the special symbol variation display time has elapsed. In this case (S509: YES), the special symbol variation display is stopped (S510), and the special symbol stop display time is set (S511).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed (S512). As a result, if it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has not elapsed (S512: NO), the special symbol game processing is terminated, and it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed. If it is determined (S512: YES), it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol is a big hit symbol (S513 in FIG. 7B).

  As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is a big hit symbol (S513: YES), the special symbol stop symbol is the second big hit symbol (the second probability variable big hit symbol or the second normal big hit symbol). It is determined whether or not there is (S514). As a result, when the stop symbol of the special symbol is the second jackpot symbol (S514: YES), the opening pattern (2R jackpot opening pattern for 2R) for the second jackpot game is set ( S515) If the stop symbol of the special symbol is not the second big hit symbol (if it is the first big hit symbol) (S514: NO), the opening pattern of the big winning opening 33a for the first big hit game (15R big prize) Mouth opening pattern) is set (S516). Then, the big hit game flag is set to ON (S517). Thereby, the big hit game is started according to the big winning opening opening pattern set in the process of S515 or S516.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is ON (S518). If it is determined that the probability variation flag is ON (S518: YES), the probability variation flag is set to OFF (S519). Transition to processing. On the other hand, when it is determined that the probability variation flag is not ON (S518: NO), the process proceeds to S520 as it is.

  In the process of S520, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON. If it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not ON (S520: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S520: YES), the fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S521), and further the release extension flag is set to OFF (S522). Thereby, with the start of the big hit game, the probability variation function, the variation time shortening function, and the open time extension function stop operating.

  Next, when it is determined in the determination processing in S513 that the special symbol stop symbol is not a big hit symbol (S513: NO), it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol is a small hit symbol ( S523). As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is not a small hit symbol (S523: NO), the process proceeds to S526, and when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is a small hit symbol. (S523: YES), a small winning big opening opening pattern is set (S524). The small winning jackpot opening pattern is an opening pattern of the small winning jackpot 33a and has the same mode as the second jackpot game. Then, the small hit game flag is set to ON (S525). Thereby, the small hit game is started according to the big winning opening opening pattern for the small hit set in the process of S524.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S526). As a result, when it is determined that the variation shortening flag is not ON (S526: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the variation shortening flag is ON (S526: NO), the variation shortening is performed. The counter is decremented by 1 (S527), and it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening counter has become zero (S528). The fluctuation shortening counter is for counting the operating period of the fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extending function, and is set in the processing of S609f and S609k (see FIG. 11) described later according to the big hit symbol after the big hit game is finished. Is done.

  When it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is not zero (S528: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is zero (S528: YES), The fluctuation shortening flag is turned off (S529), and the open extension flag is turned off (S530). As a result, the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function are deactivated.

  Next, the winning game process S600 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not a winning game is in progress (whether the big hit game flag or the small hit game flag is ON) (S601). As a result, if it is determined that the winning game is not being played (the big hit game flag and the small hit game flag are OFF) (S601: NO), the winning game process is ended and the winning game is being executed (the big hit game flag) If it is determined that the small winning game flag is ON) (S601: YES), it is determined whether or not the special winning opening 33a is open (S602). As a result, when it is determined that the special winning opening 33a is being opened (S602: YES), it is determined whether or not the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S603), and the special winning opening 33a is determined. When it is determined that the opening time has not elapsed (S603: NO), it is determined whether or not the specified winning number 33a has been won (whether or not the specified number of game balls have entered). (S604).

  As a result, when it is determined that the prescribed number of winnings has not been won in the big winning opening 33a (S604: NO), the winning game process is terminated and the prescribed winning number has been won in the big winning opening 33a. When it is determined (S604: YES) or when it is determined that the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S603: YES), the special winning opening 33a is closed (S605).

  If it is determined in S602 that the special winning opening 33a is not open (S602: NO), it is determined whether or not a winning game end condition is satisfied (S606). In the determination process of S606, if the first big hit game, the number of rounds of the big hit game has reached 15 rounds, if the second big hit game, whether the number of rounds of the big hit game has reached two rounds, If the game is a small hit game, it is determined whether or not the number of times of opening / closing the large winning opening 33a has reached two.

  As a result, when it is determined that the winning game end condition is not satisfied (S606: NO), it is determined whether or not the closing time (interval time) of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S607). When it is determined that the closing time of the special winning opening 33a has not elapsed (S607: NO), the winning game process is terminated and it is determined that the closing time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed. (S607: YES), the special winning opening 33a is opened (S608).

  When it is determined in S606 that the winning game end condition is satisfied (S606: YES), a winning game end process is performed (S610). Here, the winning game end process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In the winning game end process, first, the winning game flag (big hit game flag or small hit game flag) is set to OFF (S610a). Next, it is determined whether or not the current hit is a probability variation big hit (first probability variation big hit or second probability variation big hit) (S610b). As a result, when it is determined that the probability variation is a big hit (S610b: YES), the probability variation flag is set to ON (S610c). Thereby, the operation of the probability variation function starts (becomes a high probability state).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the finished winning game is accompanied by the operation of the opening time extension function (S610d). In the processing of S610d, the winning game ended is “first probability variable big hit game (15R probability variable big hit game)” or “second probability variable big hit game (2R probability variable big hit game) generated when the open time extension function is activated”. If it is determined that it is accompanied by the operation of the opening time extension function, and the winning game that has been completed is “the second probability variable big hit game (2R probability variable big hit game) that occurred when the opening time extension function was not activated”. In addition, it is determined that the operation is not accompanied by the operation of the open time extension function. If it is determined that the opening time extension function is not activated (S610d: NO), the winning game process is terminated, and if it is determined that the opening time extension function is operated (S610d: YES). ), The fluctuation shortening flag is set to ON (S610e), the open extension flag is set to ON (S610f), and the fluctuation shortening counter is set to 10,000 times (S610g). As a result, the operation of the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function starts.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in the determination process of S610b that the current hit is not a probable big hit (S610b: NO), it is determined whether or not the current hit is a normal big hit (S610h). As a result, when it is determined that it is not a normal big hit (that is, when the current hit is a small hit) (S610h: NO), the hit game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the normal big hit is ( S610h: YES), it is determined whether or not the normal jackpot game ended this time is accompanied by the operation of the opening time extension function (S610i). In the processing of S610i, the completed normal big hit game is the “first normal big hit game (15R normal big hit game)” or “the second normal big hit game generated when the open time extension function is activated (2R normal big hit game)” ”Is determined to be accompanied by the operation of the opening time extension function, and the finished normal big hit game is“ the second normal big hit game (2R normal big hit game) generated when the open time extension function is not operated ”. In some cases, it is determined that the operation is not accompanied by the opening time extension function. If it is determined that the opening time extension function is not activated (S610i: NO), the winning game process is terminated, and if it is determined that the opening time extension function is operated (S610i: YES). ), The fluctuation shortening flag is set to ON (S610j), the open extension flag is set to ON (S610k), and the fluctuation shortening counter is set to 100 times (S610l). As a result, the operation of the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function starts.

  Next, the common effect execution process performed by the sub control unit 260 will be described. FIG. 12 is an example of a common effect execution process performed under the control of the sub-control unit 260, and is executed as a subroutine of a main routine (not shown). The common effect processing shown in FIG. 12 is executed by the CPU 260b mounted on the sub control board 260a in accordance with a program stored in a ROM (not shown) (an internal ROM of the CPU 260b or a ROM mounted on the sub control board 260a). Moreover, FIG. 13 is explanatory drawing which shows the change of the some effect display apparatuses 25 of the gaming machine group accompanying progress of a common effect. In the example illustrated in FIG. 13, it is assumed that a common effect is performed in a gaming machine group including five adjacent gaming machines 1.

  First, it is determined whether or not it is the start timing of the common performance (S701). The start timing of the common effect is determined by the elapsed time from when the gaming machine 1 is powered on or when the previous common effect ends. For this reason, in the determination process of S701, it is determined whether or not the predetermined time t1 has elapsed since the power-on of the gaming machine 1 or whether or not the predetermined time has elapsed since the end of the previous common effect. Note that the gaming machines 1 constituting the gaming machine group are turned on substantially simultaneously by using the island power supply (the timer means is activated (time measurement) at the same time).

  As a result of the determination process of S701, when it is determined that it is not the start timing of the common effect (S701: NO), the standby state is entered until the start timing of the common effect arrives. On the other hand, when it is determined that it is the start timing of the common effect (S701: YES), the common effect is started (S702). At this time, the common effect is started in all the gaming machines 1 included in the gaming machine group that is the target of the common effect. In the present embodiment, the common effect is started by bringing the effect member 100 to the exposed state (see FIG. 3) with the effect display device 25 corresponding to each gaming machine 1 that is the target of the common effect.

  Next, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time S1 has elapsed since the start of the common effect (S703). As a result, when it is determined that the predetermined time S1 has not elapsed since the start of the common effect (S703: NO), the standby state is maintained until the predetermined time S1 has elapsed. On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined time S1 has elapsed since the start of the common effect (S703: YES), it is determined whether or not a common effect end lottery described later has ended (S704). When it is determined that the process has not been completed (S704: NO), it is determined whether or not the latent probability changing state is set (S705). In the determination process of S705, only the gaming machine 1 that is in the latent probability changing state at the start of the common performance may be the target, or the gaming machine 1 that is in the latent probability changing state after the start of the common performance may be the target.

  As a result, when it is determined that the latent probability variation state is not established (S705: NO), a common effect end lottery is executed (S706). In this lottery process, the common effect is terminated with a predetermined probability, and can be terminated with a probability of 1/2, for example. When it is determined not to end by the lottery process, the common effect is executed without changing the latent probability change. Accordingly, the player can maintain a sense of expectation that his / her table may be in the latent probability changing state. In addition, if there is a vacancy in the gaming machine group, it is possible to attract the player to the vacancy by suggesting that it may be a latent probability change state by executing (continuing) the common effect, and in turn the gaming machine The operating rate can be improved.

  Further, this common effect end lottery process may be a player participation type. Specifically, in this lottery process, the player is instructed to press an operation button provided on the frame member of the gaming machine 1, and the common effect ends at the timing when the player presses the operation button, or Whether to continue can be determined (lottery), and the determination result (lottery result) can be notified. As a mode of notification, when it is determined to end the common effect, when it is determined to end the common effect and to continue the common effect, it is notified by continuing the common effect. be able to. Further, in the gaming machine 1 that is determined to end the common effect, the common effect ends in the middle of the execution period.

  Here, in this embodiment, the fourth gaming machine 1 from the left in FIG. 13 is in the latent probability changing state (high probability state), and the first, second, third, fifth gaming machine 1 from the left is the latent. It is assumed that it is not a probability variation state (normal probability state). Then, the common effect end lottery is executed on the first, second, third, and fifth gaming machines 1 from the left that are not in the latent probability changing state (S706), among which the third and fifth gaming machines 1 from the left are common. A decision to end the effect is made, and a decision is made to continue the common effect in the first and second gaming machines 1 from the left (S706). Thereby, in the effect display device 25 corresponding to the first, second, and fourth gaming machines 1 from the left, the exposed state (appearance) of the effect member 100 is continued and the common effect is continued.

  Next, when it is determined in S705 that the latent probability is changed, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time S2 has elapsed since the start of the common effect (S707). As a result, if it is determined that the predetermined time S2 has not elapsed since the start of the common effect in some of the gaming machines 1 (S707: NO), the standby state is maintained until the predetermined time S2 has elapsed. On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined time S2 has elapsed since the start of the common effect in some of the gaming machines 1 (S706: YES), it is determined whether or not the latent probability changing state is set (S708). If it is determined that the latent probability variation state is present (S708: YES), a probability variation notification effect indicating that the probability variation function is in a high probability state is executed (S710). On the other hand, when it is determined that the latent probability variation state is not established (S708: NO), the common effect is terminated (S709). In the present embodiment, since the fourth gaming machine 1 from the left in FIG. 13 is in the latent probability changing state, the first and second gaming machines 1 from the left as shown in FIG. , And the display area of the effect display device 25 corresponding to the fourth gaming machine 1 is displayed in red, thereby executing a probability change notification effect for notifying that the gaming machine 1 is in a high probability state. Thereby, in the gaming machine 1 that is not in the latent probability changing state, the common effect ends in the middle of the execution period, and in the gaming machine 1 that is in the latent probability changing state, the common effect ends at the end of the execution period. Become.

  Next, the start winning effect execution process performed by the sub-control unit 260 will be described. FIG. 14 is an example of a start winning effect execution process performed under the control of the sub-control unit 260, and is executed as a subroutine of a main routine (not shown). 14 is executed by the CPU 260b mounted on the sub control board 260a in accordance with a program stored in a ROM (not shown) (an internal ROM of the CPU 260b or a ROM mounted on the sub control board 260a).

  First, it is determined whether or not a change start time command transmitted from the main control unit 200 has been received in the processing of S508j (FIG. 9) (S800). As a result, when it is determined that the change start command has not been received (S800: NO), the start winning effect execution process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the change start command has been received (S800: YES), it is determined whether or not it is within the limited period of the start winning effect (S801). The “start winning effect limitation period” is set to a predetermined pre-start period (for example, 5 minutes) until the start time of the common effect as described above.

  As a result, when it is determined that it is not within the limited period of the start winning effect (S801: NO), a specific start winning effect pattern is determined from all the start winning effect patterns (S802). On the other hand, if it is determined that the start winning effect is within the limited period (S801: YES), a specific start winning effect pattern is determined from the start winning effect pattern not including the specific effect related to the common effect (S803). ). Then, the execution of the start winning effect is started in accordance with the start winning effect pattern determined in S802 or S803 (S804). The predetermined time S1 is shorter than the predetermined time S2. For example, S1 can be 5 minutes and S2 can be 10 minutes. In this embodiment, the number of common effect end lotteries is set to one, but the number can be increased to a plurality of times. In this case, each time the common effect end lottery is performed, the common effect is continued because the gaming machine 1 that is executing the common effect in a state where the latent effect is not changed at a predetermined probability gradually ends. As a result, the possibility of latent probability change increases, and the player's preference can be enhanced.

  As in the present embodiment described above, when the start winning effect pattern is determined, if it is determined that the predetermined start time at which the common effect is started during the execution of the start winning effect, it is determined. By limiting the start winning effect pattern, the common effect can be preferentially executed. Thereby, it can prevent that a common production | presentation and a start winning effect (especially specific production | generation) are performed repeatedly. As a result, the common effect using the same specific effect and the start winning effect are executed in duplicate, so that it is possible to prevent the impact of the common effect that is simultaneously executed in the gaming machine group from being reduced. The production can be executed effectively.

  In particular, when the common effect and the specific effect are effects of related contents using the effect member 100, if these effects are executed in duplicate, the effect of the common effect is greatly reduced. On the other hand, in this embodiment, by limiting the start winning effect pattern to be determined based on the execution time of the common effect, it is possible to prevent the common effect and the specific effect of related contents from overlapping, A common performance can be effectively performed.

(Other embodiments)
As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to this, Unless it deviates from the range described in each claim, it is not limited to the description word of each claim, and those skilled in the art Improvements based on the knowledge that a person skilled in the art normally has can be added as appropriate to the extent that they can be easily replaced.

  For example, in each of the embodiments described above, a start winning effect pattern that does not include a specific effect related to the common effect is determined during a predetermined period before the start of the common effect (for example, 5 minutes). Although the start winning effect pattern is limited, the start winning effect pattern to be determined is determined by determining the start winning effect pattern in which the effect time is set shorter than the period until the start time of the common effect. May be restricted. For example, when the start winning effect pattern is determined 4 minutes before the start time of the common effect, when determining the start prize effect pattern including the specific effect related to the common effect, the effect time is 4 minutes. Decide on a shorter one. As a result, the execution of the start winning effect is completed before the execution of the common effect, so that it is possible to select an effect pattern including a specific effect until the last minute. Thereby, the fall of the production effect by performing the related common production | presentation and a start winning production | presentation redundantly can be prevented, and each production | presentation can be performed effectively.

  In each of the above embodiments, the start winning effect (specific effect) is limited to a predetermined pre-start period (for example, 5 minutes) leading to the start time of the common effect. In addition to this, the execution of the common effect is performed. You may comprise so that execution of a start winning effect may be restrict | limited also during the period and the period after predetermined completion | finish (for example, 5 minutes) from the completion | finish of execution of a common effect.

  In each of the above embodiments, the start winning effect (specific effect) is configured to be limited based on the execution time of the common effect. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the execution of the start winning effect is not limited. When the start winning effect is already executed at the start time of the common effect, the execution of the common effect may be limited. This also prevents the common effect and the start winning effect (specific effect) from being executed redundantly, thereby preventing the deterioration of the effect due to the common effect and the start winning effect being executed redundantly. And each effect can be effectively executed.

  Further, in each of the above embodiments, the first common effect is executed after the first predetermined time t1 has elapsed since the power was turned on, and the second common effect is performed after the second predetermined time t2 has elapsed since the completion of all the common effects. Although it is configured to execute, the timing for executing the common effect can be arbitrarily set. For example, a common effect may be executed every time a predetermined time (for example, 20 minutes) has elapsed since the power is turned on, or the time is measured in units of 24 hours using a real-time clock, and a preset predetermined time ( For example, a common effect may be executed every hour).

  In each of the above embodiments, the main control units 200 of the plurality of gaming machines 1 constituting the gaming machine group are not communicated with each other, and each gaming machine 1 is configured to control the common performance independently. Not limited to this, other configurations may be adopted. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, the main control unit 200 or the sub-control unit 260 of the gaming machine 1 transmits signals bidirectionally, and the gaming machine group cooperates to determine which number of latent probability changes, or how many It is also possible to control the common performance while recognizing whether or not the latent probability is changed. In this case, detailed control such as ending the common effect gradually (for example, two out of ten) can be performed.

  For example, in the configuration shown in FIG. 16, signals are transmitted bidirectionally between the plurality of gaming machines 1 and the hall computer 300, and the hall computer 300 is configured to control common effects. That is, the hall computer 300 measures the elapsed time and determines the start time of the common performance. Each gaming machine 1 executes a common effect according to a control signal from the hall computer 300. In this configuration, the hall computer 300 corresponds to the timer means.

  Moreover, in each said Example, although it comprised so that a common production | presentation might be performed using the production | presentation display apparatus 25, as shown in FIGS. Production can also be performed.

  FIG. 17 is a front view of the gaming machine 1 provided with the stage effect device 11, and FIG. 18 is a configuration diagram of a gaming system including the game machine 1, the table effect device 11, and the hall computer 300. As shown in FIG. 17, the stage effect device 11 is provided on the upper part of the outer frame 2. The stage effect device 11 is provided with a plurality of display portions 11a, and each of the plurality of display portions 11a can be blinked or lit. As shown in FIG. 18, the stage effect device 11 operates in response to a control signal from the hall computer 300. In order to prevent fraud, the electronic control device (main control unit 200, sub-control unit 260, etc.) of the gaming machine 1 is not directly connected, and a signal from the stage effect device 11 to the gaming machine 1 Cannot be entered. In the configuration shown in FIG. 18, a signal is transmitted in one direction from the hall computer 300 to the table-top production device 11 of each gaming machine 1, and the hall computer 300 is configured to control the common production.

  FIG. 19 is a modification of the gaming system shown in FIG. In the configuration shown in FIG. 19, each of the plurality of tabletop effecting apparatuses 11 includes a control CPU, and a signal indicating a gaming state is transmitted from the gaming machine 1 to the corresponding tabletop effecting apparatus 11. It is configured to control the common effects by transmitting signals bidirectionally between the effect devices 11 and allowing each table effect device 11 to know the gaming state (lottery probability) of the gaming machine group.

  Moreover, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, it is good also as a structure which does not communicate between the gaming machine 1 and another apparatus, or between the stage production | presentation apparatus 11 and another apparatus. In this case, each gaming machine 1 or each stage production device 11 has a timer means for measuring the elapsed time, and when the time measurement from the time of power-on is being performed, If the time is measured in units of 24 hours with the elapsed time since the power is turned on (simultaneously) as a reference, a common effect should be performed every predetermined time with the predetermined time as a reference. Good.

  In addition, a predetermined time (t1) from the time of power-on, which is the start timing of the common effect, or a predetermined time (t2, t3,... T) after all the gaming machines end the common effect is a single time. A predetermined value (for example, 20 minutes) may be set, or selected from a plurality of predetermined values (for example, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 20 minutes) by random lottery at the end of the common performance. Also good.

  In addition, in the plurality of gaming machines 1 that are the targets of the common effect, when there is a gaming machine 1 that is executing the probability change notification effect when the execution of the common effect is started, the common effect is excluded except for the gaming machine 1. Can be started.

  In addition, in a plurality of gaming machines 1 to be subjected to a common effect, when there is a game machine 1 that is executing a winning game when the execution of the common effect is started, the common effect is started except for the gaming machine 1 Alternatively, the execution start of the common effect may be delayed until the game is completed at the gaming machine 1 and the execution of the common effect including the gaming machine 1 may be started.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine, 11 ... Table-top production | presentation apparatus, 20 ... Game board, 21 ... Game area | region, 25 ... Production | presentation display apparatus, 29 ... Start-up port, 200 ... Main control part, 260 ... Sub-control part (Start prize-winning effect execution means , Start winning effect pattern storage means, timer means, timer effect execution means), 300... Hall computer.

Claims (3)

Start winning effect execution means for executing a start winning effect according to a predetermined start winning effect pattern, based on a game ball entering a start port provided on the game board;
Start winning effect pattern storage means for storing a plurality of the start winning effect patterns;
Start winning effect pattern determining means for determining the predetermined start winning effect pattern from a plurality of the start winning effect patterns stored in the start winning effect pattern storage means;
Timer means for measuring time;
Timer effect execution means for starting execution of a timer effect according to a predetermined timer effect pattern when the time measured by the timer means reaches a predetermined start time set in advance,
The start winning effect pattern determining means, based on the time measured by the timer means, if the execution period of the start winning effect overlaps with a predetermined period before and after the predetermined start time, the predetermined start to be determined A gaming machine characterized by restricting winning effect patterns. The start winning effect pattern storage means includes a first start winning effect pattern including effects related to the timer effect pattern, and a second start winning effect not including effects related to the timer effect pattern. I remember the production pattern,
The start winning effect pattern determination means limits the specific start winning effect pattern to be determined by determining the second start winning effect pattern as the predetermined start winning effect pattern. The gaming machine according to claim 1.   The timer effect executed by the timer effect executing means is related to a timer effect executed in another gaming machine and is configured as a common effect executed simultaneously. The gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2.

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