JP2012090796A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To alleviate disappointment of a player caused by a reduction in the number of continuation times of a special game state.SOLUTION: A microcomputer for performance control counts the number of jackpot decision times before the microcomputer for game control decides to set the type of a specific game state to be an initial hit B (the number of continuous occurrence times of an initial hit A), executes a second jackpot state performance (performance for enabling a player to remember a more advantageous state) when the calculated count exceeds a prescribed count (a difference between a counted value and a prescribed value is less than the prescribed value), and executes a first jackpot state performance differing from the second jackpot state performance when the calculated count is not more than the prescribed number of times (the difference between the counted value and the prescribed value is not less than the prescribed value).

Description

  The present invention includes variable display means for starting the variable display of the identification information based on the entry of the game medium into the starting area and deriving and displaying the display result, and the predetermined specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display means. A game such as a pachinko machine that makes a transition to a special game state that is easier to shift to a specific game state than when it is in a normal state when a predetermined transition condition is satisfied when a predetermined transition condition is satisfied. Related to the machine.

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

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

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

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

  In addition, as a gaming machine, an upper limit number (a limit value, that is, an end condition for the special gaming state) is established (that is, a limiter is established). There is a gaming machine that informs the player of the remaining number of times until the number of times until the function is activated (see, for example, Patent Document 2). Note that the gaming machine described in Patent Document 2 does not notify the exact remaining number of times, but notifies the player in such a manner that the player can estimate the remaining number of times.

JP 2008-284069 A JP 2007-252483 A

  In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 2, no consideration is given to the effect when the number of times that the special gaming state can be continued has decreased. Since the special game state is a more advantageous game state for the player, the player has a strong interest in the number of times that the special game state can be continued.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can reduce a player's disappointment due to a decrease in the number of times that a special gaming state can be continued.

(1) The gaming machine according to the present invention has special identification information (for example, a special symbol) based on the fact that a game medium (for example, a game ball) has entered a starting area (for example, a winning area of the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20). When variable display means (for example, special symbol display 8) for starting and displaying the variable display and deriving and displaying the display result is provided, and a predetermined specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol) is derived and displayed on the variable display means And a game machine that shifts to a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state) that is advantageous to the player before the display result is displayed on the variable display means based on the fact that the game medium has entered the starting area. Next, pre-determining means for determining whether or not to display the specific display result (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, the processing of steps S53 and S54 is executed. Part), and the gaming state after being controlled to a specific gaming state, a normal state (for example, a low base state) and a special state (for example, a high base state) in which the game medium is more likely to enter the starting area than the normal state. The game state control means (for example, the part that executes the processing of steps S475, 480, 482, and 486 in the game control microcomputer 560) and the predetermination means determine that the specific display result is obtained. The count value of the counting means is updated so as to approach a predetermined value based on the fact that the count value of the counting means is initialized based on the fact that a predetermined initialization condition (for example, the second big hit) is satisfied. Numerical value updating means for setting a value (for example, a part for executing the processing of steps S476, S478, S485 in the game control microcomputer 560) The game state control means has a predetermined probability of occurrence (for example, 1/20: see FIG. 24A) when the specific display result is derived and displayed in the normal state and controlled to the specific game state. Control to a special state (see FIG. 24A: in particular, when using the table shown in FIG. 24A in the low base state), and the specific display result is derived and displayed in the special state and controlled to the specific gaming state When this is done, at least until the count value of the counting means reaches a predetermined value, it is controlled to the special state without controlling to the normal state (see FIG. 24B), and when it reaches the predetermined value, the predetermined continuation probability (For example, refer to 18/20: FIG. 24 (B)). The system is further provided with a specific effect means for performing a predetermined effect during the special state and the specific game state controlled in the special state. Means After the specific display result is derived and displayed in the normal state and controlled to the specific gaming state, the difference between the count value of the counting means and the predetermined value is controlled by a predetermined number (for example, 30-5 ( When the value of the low base initial hit counter) is equal to or greater than 25), the first aspect (for example, the first big hit effect) is started as a predetermined effect, and the difference is less than a predetermined number (for example, 25). In some cases, the production of the second mode (for example, the second big hit production) is started.
According to such a configuration, the disappointment of the player due to the execution of the effect of the second mode, that is, the state in which the count value of the counting unit is close to the predetermined value, which is determined as the special state, is reduced. can do.

(2) In the gaming machine of the above (1), remaining number suggesting effect means for suggesting a difference between the predetermined value and the count value of the counting means (for example, steps S957, S962, S965 in the effect control microcomputer 100) S966, S968, and S989), and the remaining number suggesting effect means updates the numerical value updating means so that the count value of the counting means approaches a predetermined value (for example, the value of the big hit number counter is set to -1). ), A reduction update means for reducing and updating the number of differences to be suggested (corresponding to the value of the notification counter) (for example, in the production control microcomputer 100, the part that executes the process of step S962), When the numerical value updating means sets an initial value in the counting means, the number of suggested differences is not updated or the actual number of differences (for example, the predetermined value is 0) When the big hit number counter is down-counted, the initial value setting update means (for example, in the production control microcomputer 100, steps S964 to S966 are updated to a number smaller than the value of the big hit number counter). S987 and S988 are executed), and when the number less than the number of actual differences is suggested, the number of suggested differences is increased and updated so as to be closer to the number of actual differences. Means (for example, a portion for executing the processing of steps S964 to S966, S987, and S988 in the production control microcomputer 100), and the increase update means has an actual difference number of the first numerical value (for example, 10). Less than the first numerical value, the update rate is increased at a higher rate than in particular (FIGS. 52B and 52C). Irradiation) may be configured so.
According to such a configuration, when the count value of the counting unit decreases (when the remaining number decreases), an effect that the numerical value for notification increases is likely to be executed, and therefore, the entertainment of the game given to the player by the notification of the remaining number Can be improved.

(3) In the gaming machine of the above (1) or (2), when the count value of the counting means reaches a predetermined value (for example, 0), the increase updating means sets the number of suggested differences to an upper limit value (for example, It may be configured to be 30) which is the same value as the initial value.
According to such a configuration, the number corresponding to the initial value (corresponding to the upper limit value) is notified as the number suggested immediately before the game state is shifted to the normal state, so that the interest of the game is not lowered. Can be.

(4) In the above gaming machines (1) to (3), the specific effect means is such that the difference between the count value of the count means and the predetermined value is equal to or less than a predetermined value (for example, 30-15 (big hit number counter) If it is determined that the specific gaming state is to be established when the value of () is equal to or less than 15), the second aspect of the effect may be executed (see steps S878 to S879 in FIG. 47).
According to such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the player's disappointment when the count value of the counting means approaches the predetermined value due to the effect of the second aspect.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a relay board | substrate, an effect control board, a lamp driver board | substrate, and an audio | voice output board | substrate. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows a timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the change of a gaming state, etc. FIG. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the variable display of a normal symbol and a decoration symbol, the control state of a variable winning ball apparatus, the variable display of a special symbol, and a jackpot game state. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a gate switch passage process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol hit determination process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the normal symbol hit determination table. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol fluctuation pattern setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol fluctuation | variation process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a process during normal electric-power-object opening. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit determination process. It is explanatory drawing which shows a jackpot determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the big hit classification determination table. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol change start process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows the big winning opening opening pre-processing. It is a flowchart which shows a big winning opening open process. It is a flowchart which shows a big winning opening open process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control main process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a command analysis process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the random number which an effect control means uses. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration design change start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the stop symbol of a decoration symbol. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a process table. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the production | presentation performed according to the content of a process table. It is a flowchart which shows a process during decoration design change. It is a flowchart which shows a decoration design change stop process. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol variation start designation command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit display corresponding | compatible process. It is explanatory drawing which shows production | presentation during a big hit. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end corresponding process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end corresponding process. It is a flowchart which shows an addition effect lottery process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an addition production | presentation determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the addition frequency table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an addition effect. It is explanatory drawing which shows the addition production | presentation determination table in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the addition production | presentation process in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows a part of jackpot end corresponding | compatible process in 2nd Embodiment.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32A or the gate 32B and is detected by the gate switch 32a or the gate switch 32b, the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the state of the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 changes from an unfavorable state to the player (an open state). . In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, there is provided a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls (number of gate passages) that have passed through the gates 32A and 32B. Each time a game ball passes to the gate 32A or the gate 32B, the normal symbol storage memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time the variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one. In this embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of gate passages is 4. However, the upper limit value may be larger. Further, the upper limit value may be changed according to the gaming state.

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

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

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

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

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

  When a game ball wins a normal variable winning ball apparatus (which forms a winning area and a starting area) 20 and is detected by the winning opening switch 23, a special symbol jackpot determination is performed. In this embodiment, the probability that the special symbol is a big hit is 98/100 (98%) when the gaming state is the normal state, and is 1 when the gaming state is the probability variation state (also referred to as a high probability state). / 1 (100%). That is, it is determined that it is a big hit in almost all cases. When it is decided to win, the type of jackpot (type of jackpot) is determined.

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

  When the change of the special symbol is started based on the winning of the game ball to the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20, the stop symbol is derived and displayed after a predetermined time has elapsed. If it is decided to win, the special symbol display 8 displays and displays the big hit symbol as a special symbol stop symbol, and shifts to the big hit gaming state. When the jackpot game state is entered, the jackpot game is continued for two rounds. In this embodiment, until a predetermined period (for example, 0.5 seconds) elapses after the special variable winning device 15 is opened, or a predetermined number (for example, one) of hit balls is a large winning opening (special variable winning ball). Until winning the device 15) is one round in the jackpot game. Note that the opening period (round period) of the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 is arbitrary. Further, the number of prizes that can be awarded to the special variable winning ball apparatus 15 in the round period is arbitrary and may not be one.

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

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

  As described above, in this embodiment, in the low base state, the probability that the normal symbol is hit is low, but once the normal symbol is hit, the gaming state is changed to the high base state with a very high probability. Become. As a result, normal symbol hits occur continuously.

  In this embodiment, as a general rule, when the big hit is continuously generated for a predetermined number of times (30 times in this embodiment) in the high base state, the gaming state shifts to the low base state.

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

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

(2) Special design stop design:
As described above, the special symbols variably displayed on the special symbol display 8 are “0” to “9”. Among these, “1” is the first big hit symbol, “3” is the second big hit symbol, “5” is the first hit A symbol, and “7” is the first big hit B symbol. Further, “2” is the third big hit symbol, “4” is the first ′ big hit symbol, and “6” is the second ′ big hit symbol. Note that the off symbol is “0”.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Determine type of jackpot (for determining jackpot type)
(2) Random 2: Determine the variation pattern of the normal symbol (for variation pattern determination) (3) Random 3: Determine whether to generate a hit based on the normal symbol (for determination per ordinary symbol)
(4) Random 4: Determine initial value of random 3 (for determining random 3 initial value)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  Based on the fact that the game ball has passed the gate 32A or the gate 32B, a lottery regarding the normal symbol is executed, and based on the fact that the lottery result is a win, the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is released.

  As shown in FIG. 7A, a lottery regarding a special symbol is executed based on the fact that a game ball has won the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 corresponding to the starting port, and the first hit A of the big wins is set. If it is decided, the value of the big hit number counter is decremented by -1. Therefore, the value of the big hit number counter decreases. However, when the first initial hit A occurs, the value of the big hit number counter is initialized (30 is set). If it is determined to be the first hit B out of the big hits, the base state is changed to the high base state and the normal state (low probability state) is changed after the big hit game is ended.

  In the case of such control, a situation occurs in which the value of the big hit number counter is less than 30 when it is decided to make the initial hit B. As will be described later, after it is determined to be the first hit B, an additional effect (the effect illustrated in FIG. 54A: a remaining number suggesting effect that suggests a difference between the predetermined value and the count value of the counting means) Although it may be executed, if the value of the big hit number counter when it is determined to be the first hit B is less than a predetermined value (for example, 16), the extra effect may not be executed. . When the production starts when the value of the big hit number counter is small when it is decided to make the first hit B, the production starts from a substantially small initial value (for example, 15). This is because of a decrease.

  After the first hit B is generated, as shown in FIG. 7B, a lottery regarding a special symbol is executed based on the fact that the game ball has won the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 corresponding to the starting port, When it is decided to make the first big hit of the big hits (the big hit that will shift to the probability change state after the big hit game or the probability change state will continue), the value of the big hit number counter is updated (FIG. 24). (See also (B)). Specifically, it is -1. If it is decided to make the second big hit (the big hit that will shift to the normal state after the big hit game), the value of the big hit number counter is initialized (FIG. 24B). reference). Specifically, 30 is set. Even if it is decided to win any of the big hits, the gaming state (base state) is shifted to the high base state, or the high base state continues. Further, the third big hit of the big hits (the big hit that will shift to the probability change state after the big hit game or the probability change state will continue and the base state will be shifted to the low base state). When determined, the value of the big hit number counter is updated (see also FIG. 24B).

  When the limiter is activated, a lottery for a special symbol is executed based on the fact that a game ball has won the normal variable winning ball device 20 corresponding to the starting port, and the first big jackpot (hit game) Decided to be a normal hit (non-probable change state) and a big hit that will shift to a low base state) or a 2 'big hit (a big hit that will shift to a normal state and a high base state after a big hit game) (See FIG. 24C).

  Also, until the limiter is activated (the value of the big hit counter is 0), the gaming state is likely to be in a high-frequency winning state (specifically, a high base state), so the limiter is activated. It is relatively advantageous for the player to generate the second jackpot immediately before the number of times (which means that the number of jackpots that can be generated in the special gaming state becomes a limit value). This is because the value of the big hit number counter is initialized to 30 after the special game state continues for a long time, and the high base state is maintained. The high base state is a state in which a game ball is likely to win the normal variable winning ball device 20 (see FIG. 14A), and when a game ball wins the normal variable winning ball device 20 (starting area). In the case where a game ball is won), it will be a big hit at a rate of almost 100% (see FIG. 23), and there is a high possibility that it will shift to the special game state (probability change state) again (see FIG. 24B). . In addition, it is not very advantageous for the player that the first big hit or the third big hit (see FIG. 24B) occurs in the special game state. This is because the value of the big hit number counter approaches the limit value that will shift the gaming state to the normal state.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the variable display of normal symbols and decorative symbols, the control state of the variable winning ball apparatus, and the variable display of special symbols.

  As shown in FIG. 8, when the game ball passes through the gate 32A or the gate 32B, if the normal symbol can be changed, the normal symbol display 10 and the effect display device 9 may change the normal symbol and the decorative symbol. Executed. When the display result of the normal symbol is a winning symbol, the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is controlled to be open for a predetermined period (8 seconds in this embodiment). While the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is controlled to be in the open state, the game ball can win (pass) in the starting area, and the starting condition of the special symbol can be satisfied.

  If the special symbol display 8 is in a state where the variation of the special symbol can be started, the special symbol display 8 will display a special symbol based on the establishment of the special symbol start condition (the winning of the game ball to the normal variable winning ball device 20). The symbol variation is executed. When the display result of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol, a jackpot game is executed. In other words, the special winning opening (special variable winning ball apparatus 15) is controlled to be opened a predetermined number of times (for example, twice) with a closing time of a predetermined time (in this embodiment, 0.5 seconds). The opening time is 0.5 seconds in this embodiment. In other words, in this embodiment, the jackpot game time is 1.5 seconds. The jackpot display time for notifying that a big hit has occurred (in this embodiment, 0.2 seconds) and the jackpot end time for notifying the end of the big hit (in this embodiment, 0.2 seconds) ), The total time is 1.9 seconds.

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

  Further, the time during which the normally variable winning ball apparatus 20 is closed (in this embodiment, 3 seconds) is the time of the big hit game (in this embodiment, always 1.5 seconds: the big hit display time and the big hit) Considering the end time, it is longer than 1.9 seconds). Therefore, the next normal symbol variation is not started before the big hit gaming state is completed. As will be described later, since the probability variation flag and the high base flag are reset in the big hit gaming state, the gaming state is a normal state (non-probability variation state) and a low base state. In general, in the non-probability variation state and the low base state, a variation time longer than that in the high probability state and the high base state is selected as the variation time of the normal symbol. If it is configured so that the next normal symbol variation may start before the big hit gaming state ends, there is a high possibility that a long time will be selected as the normal symbol variation time. Since the normal variable winning ball apparatus 20 is not opened while the normal symbol is changing, it is disadvantageous for the player. However, as shown in FIG. 8, in this embodiment, since the next normal symbol variation does not start before the big hit gaming state is completed, there is no disadvantage to the player.

  However, as described later, in this embodiment, a short variation time is used as the variation time of the normal symbol in the non-probability variation state and the low base state. Therefore, even if it is configured such that the next normal symbol change may be started before the big hit gaming state is finished, the possibility of an unfavorable opportunity for the player is reduced.

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

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

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

  The commands 8C01 (H) to 8C08 (H) are effect control commands for designating the contents of the special symbol stop symbol (display result) in the special symbol indicator 8. In other words, whether it is out of place, 1st big hit, 2nd big hit, 3rd big hit, 1 'big hit, 2' big hit, 2nd big hit, or first hit A This is an effect control command indicating whether or not the first hit B is to be made. Hereinafter, the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C08 (H) may be referred to as display result specifying commands.

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

  The command 8F01 (H) is an effect control command (special symbol variation start designation command) for informing the start of variation of the special symbol in the special symbol display 9. Command 8F02 (H) is an effect control command (special symbol variation end designation command) for notifying the end of variation of the special symbol in the special symbol display 9.

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

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

  Command A001 (H) is an effect control command (a jackpot start designation command) that designates that a jackpot game is to be started.

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

  Command A301 (H) is an effect control command (a jackpot end designation designation command) that designates that the jackpot game is to be terminated.

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

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

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

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

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

  The processes in steps S100 to S104 are as follows.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol normal process (step S100). In the normal symbol normal process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the normal symbol process timer (set in step S158 in FIG. 18 or step S167 in FIG. 19) has timed out (step S270). If not timed out, the value of the normal symbol process timer is decremented by -1 (step S278), and the process is terminated. If the normal symbol process timer has already timed out, it is confirmed whether or not the gate passing memory number is 0 (step S271). Specifically, the count value of the gate passing memory number counter is confirmed. If the gate passing memory number is 0, the process is terminated. If the gate passing memory number is not 0, the CPU 56 reads the normal symbol per-design random number and the variation pattern determining random number stored in the storage area corresponding to the gate passing memory number = 1 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. Store (step S272).

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

  In addition, the number of indicators lit in the normal symbol indicator 41 is reduced by 1 (step S274). In addition, a normal symbol reserved storage number subtraction designation command designating that 1 is subtracted from the gate passage storage number is transmitted (step S275). In addition, you may transmit the command which designates the gate passage memory | storage number after subtraction, without transmitting a normal symbol reservation memory | storage number subtraction designation | designated command.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a normal symbol variation pattern setting process (step S102) in the normal symbol process. In the normal symbol variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit game is in progress (the game state is a normal state and a low base state) (step S130A). Whether or not the jackpot game is being played is, for example, a value of a special symbol process flag from 4 (corresponding during execution of the jackpot display process) to 7 (corresponding during execution of the jackpot end process) (see also FIG. 20). It is confirmed by whether or not. When the big hit game is being played, the CPU 56 determines the variation time to be a short 5.0 seconds (step S130B). Then, control goes to a step S137.

  When the gaming state is not the normal state and the low base state (when it is at least one of the probability variation state and the high base state) or when the normal state or the low base state is not a big hit game, The CPU 56 checks whether or not the normal symbol hit flag is set (step S131). If the normal symbol per flag is set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the high base state flag is set to check whether or not the current gaming state is the high base state (step S132). . When the gaming state is not the high base state but the low base state, the low base per-variation pattern determination table is selected (step S133).

  When the gaming state is the high base state (when the high base state flag is set), a high base per-fluctuation pattern determination table used when winning in the high base state is selected (step S134).

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

  In this example, each variation pattern of the normal symbol is a variation pattern when the stop symbol of the decorative symbol is “offset symbol” (variation pattern dedicated to the loss), and when the stop symbol of the decorative symbol is “hit symbol” And the fluctuation pattern (variation pattern dedicated to hits).

  The fluctuation patterns dedicated to the detachment include a fluctuation pattern of normal fluctuation without reach, a fluctuation pattern of normal reach at the time of detachment (simple reach mode), and a fluctuation pattern with long reach.

  As a variation pattern dedicated to winning, the normal variation pattern at high base used only in the high base state, the normal reach variation pattern used only in normal gaming state, and only in the normal gaming state There is a variation pattern of super reach used.

  In the low base variation pattern determination table, a plurality of determination values corresponding to the variation patterns (variation patterns of “05 (H)” and “06 (H)” in FIG. 16) selected at the time of winning are displayed. Assigned.

  In the high base variation pattern determination table, only the determination value corresponding to the variation pattern (“02 (H)” in FIG. 16) selected only when winning in the high base state is set.

  When the normal symbol per flag is not set, the CPU 56 selects the deviation variation pattern determination table to be used when the deviation occurs (step S135).

  In the variation pattern determination table for deviation, a plurality of variation patterns (“01 (H)”, “03 (H)”, “04 (H)” in FIG. 16) selected only at the time of deviation are respectively selected. The judgment value is assigned.

  Then, the CPU 56 determines the variation pattern of the normal symbol using the variation pattern determination table selected in the processes of steps S133, S134, and S135 based on the value of the variation pattern determination random number stored in the random number storage buffer. (Step S136). Note that the CPU 56 selects the deviation variation pattern determination table in the low base state when making the deviation, and determines the variation pattern as a “normal variation” variation pattern in the high base state.

  Also, in this embodiment, when it is decided to make a deviation, the fluctuation pattern of the normal symbol is decided based on the fluctuation pattern determination random number and the deviation fluctuation pattern decision table. If it is determined, the reach determination random number may be used to determine whether or not to reach based on the value of the reach determination random number.

  In this embodiment, the variation pattern is used only when the stop symbol of the decorative symbol is "offset symbol". When the stop symbol of the decorative symbol is "winning symbol" It is distinguished from the fluctuation pattern dedicated to hits that are used only in the case of the pattern, but the fluctuation pattern that is used in both cases of “out of line” and “winning pattern” (for example, fluctuation patterns with long reach) And a variation pattern of super reach).

  Next, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the fluctuation time of the normal symbol specified by the fluctuation pattern in the normal symbol process timer (step S137). Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a variation pattern command according to the variation pattern determined in the process of step S136 (step S138).

  Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “2”) corresponding to the normal symbol variation process (step S102) (step S139).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  If it is determined in step S153 that the normal symbol per flag is not set, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the next variation waiting time (for example, 3.0 seconds) in the normal symbol process timer (step S158). ). Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “0”) indicating the normal symbol normal process (step S100) (step S159).

  In this embodiment, the game control means determines whether the next normal time until a time longer than the sum of the special symbol variation time and the jackpot gaming state period (for example, 1.5 seconds: see FIG. 8) has elapsed. Since there is a prohibition means for prohibiting the start of symbol variation, there is a possibility that the game ball will pass through the gate 32 during this period (a period during which normal symbol variation is not executed) and the value of the gate passing memory number will increase. When the jackpot gaming state ends, the possibility that the jackpot will occur again can be maintained.

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

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

  In step S166, the CPU 56 closes the normally variable winning ball apparatus (ordinary electric accessory) 20 (step S166). Also, a value corresponding to the next fluctuation waiting time (for example, 3.0 seconds) is set in the normal symbol process timer (step S167).

  Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “0”) indicating the normal symbol normal process (step S100) (step S168).

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

  The processes in steps S300 to S307 are as follows.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  After executing the big hit determination process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S55). If the big hit flag is not set, that is, if it is determined to be out of place, the process proceeds to step S61.

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

  FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram of a jackpot type determination table. As shown in FIG. 24, in the big hit type determination table, the table used until the first hit B is generated (see FIG. 24A), and the big hit count counter is running after the first hit B is generated. (When the value of the big hit number counter is 2 to 30: the value of the big hit number counter is the value before the start of fluctuation) and the limiter operation (value of the big hit number counter) Table (see FIG. 24C). In this embodiment, since the value of the big hit number counter is updated after the big hit game ends, for example, when the value of the big hit number counter is 1 when the CPU 56 predetermines the type of the big hit, After the big hit game ends, the value of the big hit number counter is updated to zero.

  In the process of step S56, the CPU 56 uses the table shown in FIG. 24A until the first hit B is generated. After the first hit B is generated, the CPU 56 uses the table shown in FIG. When the value of the counter is 1, the table shown in FIG. After the 1 'big hit or the 2' big hit has occurred, the table shown in FIG.

  In the table shown in FIG. 24 (A), 0 to 18 are set as determination values corresponding to the initial hit A (the big hit that will be changed to the probability variation state (high probability state) and the low base state after the big hit game). , 19 is set as a determination value corresponding to the first hit B (a big hit that will be in a normal state (low probability state) and a high base state after a big hit game).

  In the table shown in FIG. 24 (B), the first big hit (after the big hit game, the probability change state (high probability state) and the high base state are set, and the limiter number is updated (the value of the big hit number counter is decreased by 1). 0-12 is set as a judgment value corresponding to the big hit, and after the big hit (after the big hit game, the non-probability change state (low probability state: normal state) and the high base state, the limiter number initialization 13 to 16 are set as determination values corresponding to the performance (the big hit that will make the value of the big hit number counter 30). In addition, 17 to 19 are set as determination values corresponding to the third big hit (a big hit that will be changed to a probability change state (high probability state) and a high base state after the big hit game and the limiter number will be updated). . For example, the number of rounds in the big hit game is different between the first big hit and the third big hit.

  In this embodiment, when the limiter is not operated, the probability (probability change determination rate) determined to be a probable big hit (corresponding to the first big hit or the third big hit) is 80% (16/20). The probability variation rate of 80% means that the probability of hitting the probability variation in the normal state and shifting to the probability variation state is 80%, and that the probability variation is in the probability variation state and the probability variation state continues. This means that the ratio of being used is also 80%.

  Further, the probability that the high base state is determined when the limiter is not operated is 100%. 100% means that it is controlled to a high base state (an example of a special state) without being controlled to a low base state (an example of a normal state).

  When the limiter is activated (specifically, when the big hit number counter is decremented by 1 after the big hit game and its value becomes 0), when the limiter is activated as shown in FIG. In the table used when the value of 1 is 1), it corresponds to the 1 'big hit (the big hit that will be in the non-probability change state (low probability state: normal state) and high base state after big hit game) 0 to 17 are set as the determination values. In addition, 18 and 19 are set as determination values corresponding to the second 'big hit (the big hit that will be in the normal state and the low base state after the big hit game).

  When the limiter is activated (specifically, when the big hit number counter is decremented by 1 after the big hit game and its value becomes 0), the gaming state is always the normal state. That is, the probability variation state ends.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 24B and 24C, when the limiter is operated, the ratio determined for the big hit that becomes the high base state after the big hit game is higher than when the limiter is not operated. In this example, it is 100%. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the interest of the game from being reduced when the special game state end condition is satisfied.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 24A and 24B, the base state after the big hit game is controlled to the high base state at the first hit (first hit A or first hit B), and The ratio determined to the big hit (that is, the first hit B) to be controlled in the low probability state is that after the big hit game when the big hit occurs when the limiter is not operated (after the first hit B occurs) The base state is controlled to a high base state and lower than the ratio determined for the big hit (ie, the second big hit) that will be controlled to the low probability state.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 24 (A) and 24 (B), in the case of the first win, the ratio determined for the big hit where the gaming state after the big hit game becomes a high probability state (probability variation state) is When the big hit occurs after the first hit B occurs, the game state after the big hit game is different from the ratio determined for the big hit where the gaming state becomes a high probability state, but the big hit that is controlled to the high base state is determined. (The ratio determined for the jackpot that becomes a high probability state in the case of the first hit and the jackpot that becomes a high probability state after the first hit B is generated on condition that different ratios are maintained) Ratio) may be the same.

  Further, a jackpot where the gaming state after the jackpot game becomes a high probability state (probability variation state) is called a probability variation jackpot (initial hit A, first jackpot and third jackpot), and other jackpots may be called normal jackpots. In addition, a big hit where the gaming state (base state) after the big hit game becomes a high base state is called a high base big hit (first hit B, first big hit, second big hit, third big hit and first 'big hit), and others The big hit is sometimes called the low base hit.

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

  In step S61, the CPU 56 determines a special symbol stop symbol. However, in this embodiment, since only one type of jackpot symbol is provided according to the jackpot type, the jackpot symbol is also automatically determined by determining the jackpot type. Specifically, “1” is a first big hit symbol, “3” is a second big hit symbol, “5” is a first hit A symbol, and “7” is a first big hit B symbol. Further, “2” is a third jackpot symbol, “4” is a first ′ jackpot symbol, and “6” is a second ′ jackpot symbol. It should be noted that instead of using one type of stop symbol according to the type of jackpot, the jackpot symbol may be selected from a plurality of types of symbols.

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

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

  Thereafter, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value (for example, “1”) corresponding to the special symbol variation start process (step S301) (step S62). Then, the process ends.

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

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

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

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

  If the special symbol process timer has timed out, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S233). If the big hit flag is set, the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state and the high base state flag indicating the high base state are reset (step S234), and the effect control microcomputer 100 is reset. Control to transmit the big hit start designation command is performed (step S235). In addition, a value corresponding to the jackpot display time timer (a time when the effect display device 9 notifies that the jackpot has occurred, for example, 0.2 seconds) is set in the jackpot display time timer (step S236). In addition, 2 is set to the number-of-opening counter indicating the number of times of opening of the special winning opening (step S237). In the big hit display process, the number of times of opening (for example, 2) may be set in the number of times of opening counter. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value (for example, “4”) corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S304) (step S238).

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

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

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

  In addition, a value corresponding to the maximum time (for example, 29 seconds or 2 seconds) that can be opened in each round is set in the big prize opening control timer (step S406). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value (for example, “6”) according to the special winning opening opening process (step S306) (step S415).

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

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

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

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

  When the value of the number-of-opens counter is 0, the CPU 56 makes a big hit end time to the big prize opening control timer (eg, a time for notifying that the big hit game has ended, for example, the effect display device 9: 0.2 seconds, for example ) Is set (step S445), and the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value (for example, “7”) corresponding to the jackpot end process (step S307) (step S446).

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

  When the initial hit is A, the first big hit or the third big hit, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the big hit number counter by -1 (step S485). In addition, the probability variation flag is set, and when it is the first big hit or the third big hit, the high base state flag is set (step S486). Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value (specifically “0”) corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S487).

  When the first hit A occurs for the first time, the CPU 56 generates the first hit A for the first time after shifting from the state shown in FIG. 24C to the state shown in FIG. ), The big hit counter is initialized (set to 30). Whether or not the first hit A occurs for the first time, for example, is set for the first time when a predetermined flag is set when the limiter is activated and it is determined that the first hit A is set when the flag is set. The initial hit A is determined and the flag is reset. The CPU 56 also initializes the big hit number counter in the initialization process (for example, the process in step S12).

  When it is the second big hit, the CPU 56 sets a high base state flag (steps S474 and S475). Also, the big hit number counter is initialized (step S476). That is, 30 is set in the big hit number counter. Then, control goes to a step S487.

  When it is the first 'big hit or the second' big hit, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the big hit number counter by -1 (steps S477 and S478). The value of the big hit number counter becomes 0 by the processing of step S478, but in this case, the probability change flag remains reset (see step S234 in FIG. 27), and the gaming state is changed to the normal state (non-probability changing state). Become. That is, the limiter is activated. On the other hand, when it is the 1 'big hit, the CPU 56 sets a high base state flag (steps S479, S480). Then, control goes to a step S487.

  When it is the initial hit B, the CPU 56 sets a high base state flag (steps S481, S482). Then, control goes to a step S487. When the CPU 56 shifts from the state shown in FIG. 24C to the state shown in FIG. 24A, the first hit B occurs before the first hit A occurs. , The big hit number counter is initialized (30 is set). This is because the big hit number counter is not initialized when the first hit B occurs before the first hit A occurs.

  Further, in this embodiment, the value of the big hit number counter after the big hit game is executed after being determined to be the second big hit is initialized (see step S476), but thereafter (that is, in the normal state) ) When the first hit A or the first hit B is determined, the value of the big hit number counter may be initialized.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the first big hit or the third big hit is generated 30 times continuously in the special gaming state, the limiter is activated and the gaming state is shifted to the normal state. However, the 30th is a 1 'big hit or a 2' big hit. In addition, “continuous” means that a big hit is not continuously generated but a condition that no other type of big hit occurs. Further, the 30 times that the limiter is activated is an example, and the number of jackpots that the limiter is activated may be other than 30 times. Moreover, you may make it vary the frequency | count according to the kind of jackpot. For example, the number of times may be determined by lottery using random numbers.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 24 (C), in the case of the first big hit, the base state becomes a high base state after the big hit game, so the winning symbol is determined as a normal symbol stop symbol with high probability. (See FIG. 14), the opening / closing operation of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is executed. Therefore, although a start prize is generated with a high probability, even if the gaming state is a normal state, it is a big hit with a high probability (see FIG. 23).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  If the received display result specifying command is the first hit A designation command, the value of the low base first hit number counter is incremented by 1 (steps S643 and S644). Note that the low base initial hit count counter is a big hit (ie, initial hit A) corresponding to the fact that the initial hit (initial hit A or initial hit B) does not change the gaming state to the high base state after the big hit gaming state ends. This is a counter for counting the event, and is secured in the RAM of the effect control microcomputer 100. In addition, the low base initial hit count counter is set to 0 in the initialization process (step S701). When the first hit A occurs, the game control microcomputer 560 decrements the big hit number counter on the game control means side by -1. Further, for example, when the limiter is activated, the production control CPU 101 initializes the low base initial hit count counter (sets the value to 0).

  If the received effect control command is another command, the effect control CPU 101 sets a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (step S651). Then, control goes to a step S611.

  FIG. 35 is an explanatory diagram showing random numbers used by the effect control microcomputer 100. As shown in FIG. 35, in this embodiment, the effect control microcomputer 100 uses an additional effect determination random number SR1 and an additional number determination random number SR2. Note that random numbers other than these may be used to enhance the effect.

  The random number for determining the additional effect is a random number for determining whether or not to execute the additional effect. The extra effect is the number of jackpots until the limiter is activated when the limiter is activated and the player is informed of the number of jackpots that can occur before the gaming state changes from the special gaming state to the non-special gaming state. The counter for counting is initialized (in this example, the big hit number counter is set to 30 regardless of the value of the big hit number counter at that time). This is an effect that increases the number of times the player is notified.

  When the second big hit occurs, the value of the big hit number counter becomes 30, but in this embodiment, “30” is not always notified in the extra effect. The number of times less than “30” may be notified. The random number for determining the number of additions is a counter for determining the number of times notified to the player in the addition effect.

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol process process (step S706) in the main process. In the decorative design process, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs any one of steps S800 to S803 according to the value of the decorative design process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

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

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

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

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

  FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the decorative symbol process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S811). The variation pattern command reception flag is an effect control command (that is, a variation variable) that designates a variation pattern of a decorative symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in synchronization with the variable symbol variable display in the processes of steps S614 and S616. This is set when it is confirmed that the (pattern command) has been received. If the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variation pattern command reception flag is reset (step S812). Then, the value of the decorative symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S813).

  FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing the decorative symbol variation start process (step S801) in the decorative symbol process shown in FIG. In the decorative symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 reads the received variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area of the RAM (step S820). Further, the display result (stop symbol) of the decorative symbol is determined in accordance with the received normal symbol display result specifying command (ordinary symbol deviation designation command, normal symbol designation command) (step S821). When a normal symbol deviation designation command is received, a normal symbol deviation designation command reception flag is set, and when a normal symbol designation command is received, a normal symbol designation command reception flag is set (FIG. 33). reference). The effect control CPU 101 stores data indicating the determined decorative symbol stop pattern in the decorative symbol display result storage area. Then, the set normal symbol deviation designation command reception flag or the normal symbol designation command reception flag (ordinary symbol display result specifying command) is reset (step S822).

  FIG. 39 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a decorative symbol stop pattern in the effect display device 9. In the example shown in FIG. 39, when the display result of the normal symbol is a win, the effect control CPU 101 determines a combination of effect symbols having three symbols as stop symbols. When the display result of the normal symbol is out of place, a combination of effect symbols other than the above is determined. However, when a reach effect is involved, a combination of effect symbols in which two left and right symbols are aligned is determined. Whether or not a reach effect is involved is determined based on the received variation pattern command.

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

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

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

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command (step S830).

  FIG. 40 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the process table. The process table is a table in which process data referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls effect devices (effect components) such as the effect display device 9 according to the process data set in the process table. The process table includes data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, and lamp control execution data are collected. The display control execution data includes, for example, data indicating each variation mode constituting the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the decorative symbol (display of the effect display device 9 in addition to the decorative symbol display mode) Including effects other than decorative designs on the screen). Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. Further, the production time in the production mode is set in the process timer set value. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table, displays the decorative pattern in the form set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value, and displays the character image or background displayed on the display screen. Control to display. Further, the blinking of the light emitter (frame LED 28 and the like) is controlled in a manner set in the lamp control execution data.

  The process table shown in FIG. 40 is prepared according to each effect control pattern.

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

  FIG. 41 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the effects executed according to the contents of the process table. As shown in FIG. 41, the effect control CPU 101 executes effect control according to effect control execution data in the process table. That is, when the time according to the timer value set in the process timer set value has elapsed, according to the next effect control execution data in the process table, by repeating the process of controlling the light emitters such as the effect display device 9 and the LED, The effect during the change of the decorative pattern is realized once. In this embodiment, the image data related to the variation of the decorative design is not set in the process table. As will be described later, the decoration control CPU 101 writes the image data indicating the display state of the decorative design to the VRAM every time the variation control timer times out, thereby realizing the decorative design variation. Further, the sound number data related to the sound effect is not set in the process table. Since the control data corresponding to the sound number data stored in the sound data ROM 704 is a collection of data indicating the sound effect or sound output mode in a predetermined time period (for example, a decorative symbol fluctuation period) in time series, The control CPU 101 outputs the sound number data to the sound output board 70, for example, at the start of decoration pattern variation. When it is desired to interrupt the sound output based on the already-output audio data, the effect control CPU 101 may output, for example, sound number data indicating the interruption to the audio output board 70.

  In the process of step S830 shown in FIG. 38, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table according to the variation pattern designated by the variation pattern designation command.

  The effect control CPU 101 starts a process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table (step S831). Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound number data corresponding to the variation pattern to the sound output board 70 (step S832). Further, the control of the effect device (the effect display device 9 as the effect part and various LEDs as the effect part) is executed according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1) (step S833). , S834). That is, in accordance with the display control execution data, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image (including decorative symbols) according to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to control various LEDs to be turned on / off.

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

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

  FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing the decorative symbol variation process (step S802) in the decorative symbol process. In the decorative symbol variation process, the effect control CPU 101 decrements the values of the process timer, variation time timer, and variation control timer by 1 (steps S841A, S841B, S841C).

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

  If the variation control timer has timed out (step S846), on condition that the special symbol is changing or that the big hit game is not being played (step S847), the effect control CPU 101 displays the left, right and right decorative symbols. Image data of the next display screen (screen to be displayed after 30 ms has elapsed since the last decorative symbol display switching time) is created and written in a predetermined area of the VRAM (step S848). By executing the processing of step S848, the effect control device 9 implements decorative pattern variation control. The VDP 109 outputs a signal based on data obtained by superimposing image data of a predetermined area and image data based on display control execution data set in the process table to the effect display device 9. As such, the effect control device 9 displays the background image, the character image, and the decorative design in the decorative design variation. Also, a predetermined value is reset in the fluctuation control timer (step S849).

  If the special symbol is changing or a big hit game, the process of step S848 is not executed. If the special symbol is changing or the big hit game is being played, the process of step S848 is not executed. Therefore, during the special symbol change or the big hit game, the decorative symbol change is interrupted. During special symbol variation or big hit games, display is executed by processing such as special symbol variation response processing (step S883) and round response processing (step S886) in the effect control process (see FIG. 44). An effect based on the control is executed in the effect display device 9.

  In addition, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the variable time timer has timed out (step S851). If the variation time timer has timed out, the value of the decorative symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation stopping process (step S803) (step S853). Even if the variation time timer has not timed out, if the symbol confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (step S852), the value of the ornament symbol process flag is set to the ornament symbol variation stop processing (step It is updated to a value corresponding to S803) (step S853). Even if the variation time timer has not timed out, if the symbol confirmation designation command is received, the process shifts to control to stop variation.For example, a variation pattern command indicating a long variation time due to noise between substrates is received. Even in such a case, the variation of the decorative symbol can be terminated when the regular variation time has elapsed (when the variation of the special symbol has ended). In the process table used for decorative pattern variation control, process data during decorative pattern variation display is set. That is, the sum of the process timer set values of the process data 1 to n in the process table illustrated in FIG. 40 corresponds to the decorative symbol variation time. Therefore, at the time of confirming that the process timer of the last process data n has timed out in the process of step S841, there is no process data to be switched (display control execution data and lamp control execution data), and the decorative design based on the process table The production control ends.

  FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol variation stopping process (step S803) in the decorative symbol process. In the decorative symbol variation stop process, first, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not a symbol confirmation command reception flag indicating that an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) for instructing the decorative symbol variation stop has been received is set. Confirmation is made (step S861). When the symbol determination command reception flag is set, control is performed to stop and display the determined stop symbol (out of symbol or winning symbol) (step S862).

  If the stop symbol of the decorative symbol derived and displayed in step S862 is a winning symbol, the normal symbol of the stop symbol is also derived and displayed (stop display), and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened and closed. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the winning symbol is stopped and displayed, a display for suggesting a game method is displayed on the effect display device 9 (step S853). The display for suggesting the game method is the area where the variable winning ball device 15 is provided (in this embodiment, the left area in the game area 7 is the first area and the right area is the second area). In this case, it is a display for notifying that the game ball is launched aiming at the second area), and as an example, a character display of “aiming right” is performed.

  Then, the value of the decorative symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S864).

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

  FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S707) in the effect control process. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs any one of steps S881 to S888 according to the value of the effect control process flag.

  In the effect control process, it is possible to execute an effect process according to the variation of the special symbol using an effect device such as the light emitter, the speaker 27, and the effect display device 9. The processes in steps S881 to S888 are as follows.

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

  Special symbol variation start corresponding process (step S882): A value corresponding to the variation time is set in a variation time timer (different from the variation time timer used in the decorative symbol process). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol variation handling process (step S883).

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

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

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

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

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

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

  FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing special symbol variation start designation command reception waiting processing (step S881) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the special symbol variation start designation command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the special symbol variation start designation command reception flag is set (step S911). If the special symbol variation start designation command reception flag is set, the special symbol variation start designation command reception flag is reset (step S912). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol variation start corresponding process (step S882) (step S913).

  In the special symbol change start corresponding process, the effect control CPU 101 sets a value corresponding to the special symbol change time in the change time timer, and sets the value of the effect control process flag to the special symbol change corresponding process (step S883). Update to the corresponding value.

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

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

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

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

  FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing the jackpot display corresponding process (step S885) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the big hit display corresponding process, the CPU 101 for effect control confirms whether or not the big hit effect display screen has been started (step S871).

  Whether or not it is after the display of the big hit effect display screen is started, for example, a flag is set when executing the processing of steps S875, S877, and S878, and it is confirmed whether or not the flag is set. It is determined by doing.

  When the jackpot effect display screen has not yet started, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the jackpot start designation command reception flag indicating that the jackpot start designation command indicating the start of the jackpot game has been received is set. Confirmation is made (step S872). When the big hit start designation command reception flag is set, the big hit start designation command reception flag is reset (step S873).

  Then, the production control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the big hit type is the initial hit B (step S874). If it is the first hit B, the value of the low base first hit count counter is checked (step S875). When the value of the low base first hit number counter is not more than a predetermined value (5 in this example), the first big hit effect is started (step S876). That is, the first big hit effect screen is displayed on the effect display device 9. Note that the low base initial hit count counter is a big hit corresponding to the fact that the initial hit (the big hit generated when the value of the big hit count counter is 0) does not change the gaming state to the high base state after the big hit gaming state ends (that is, This is a counter for counting the number of times A).

  When the value of the low base initial hit count counter exceeds a predetermined value, the second big hit effect is started (step S877). In other words, the second big hit effect screen is displayed on the effect display device 9.

  In this embodiment, since the value of the big hit number counter is decremented by 1 even when the first hit A occurs, if the value of the low base first hit number counter exceeds a predetermined value, the first hit This means that when B occurs, the difference between the value of the big hit number counter and the value that activates the limiter is less than a predetermined number. That is, when the difference between the value of the big hit number counter and the value for operating the limiter is less than the predetermined number, the effect of the second mode is started. In this embodiment, the low base initial hit number counter is used, but the big hit number counter is used to determine whether the big hit effect is the first big hit effect or the second big hit effect. May be.

  Further, the first big hit effect and the second big hit effect are continuously executed even after the big hit game ends. That is, paying attention to the second big hit effect, the second big hit effect is in the high base state (except during the big hit game) and the big hit gaming state (the first hit B is generated) controlled in the high base state. The gaming state will be executed in the high base state until the limiter is activated. The effect control CPU 101 ends, for example, the first big hit effect and the second big hit effect when the limiter operates.

  When the big hit type is the first big hit, the second big hit, or the third big hit (big hit that occurs after being controlled to the high base state) (step S878), the value of the big hit number counter is a predetermined value. (For example, 15) or more (step S879), the second big hit effect is started (step S880). Note that the value of the big hit number counter being equal to or greater than a predetermined value means that the difference between the value of the big hit number counter and the value that causes the limiter to operate is equal to or smaller than the predetermined value.

  FIG. 48 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the first big hit effect and the second big hit effect. As shown in FIGS. 48A and 48B, the second big hit effect (see FIG. 48B)) is the same as the first big hit effect (see FIG. 48A)). This is an effect that reminds the player that the situation is more advantageous. In other words, after a big hit (for example, first hit A) corresponding to not changing the gaming state to the high base state after the gaming state is ended, corresponds to changing the gaming state to the high base state. When a big hit (for example, the first hit B) occurs, the player feels disappointed due to the fact that the big hit corresponding to not going into the high base state has continued by emphasizing the player that it will be in an advantageous gaming state. ease.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the first hit A occurs, the value of the big hit number counter is decremented by 1 (see step S485 in FIG. 31 and step S958 shown in FIG. 49). When the value of the big hit number counter becomes 0, the limiter operates. However, when the first hit A occurs continuously, when the first hit B (becomes a high base state after the big hit game) occurs, The value is closer to 0 at which the limiter will operate than the initial value (30 in this example). In other words, it is disadvantageous for the player that the first hit A is continuously generated many times before the first hit B is generated. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the value of the low base initial hit counter exceeds a predetermined value, the effect control CPU 101 makes the player feel as if an advantageous state has occurred. The player's feeling of disappointment is alleviated by executing the performance during the big hit of 2.

  When a big hit (all big hits in this embodiment) that actually sets the gaming state to the high base state when the big hit number counter is running after the first hit B occurs By executing the second big hit effect, the player's feeling of disappointment when the value of the big hit number counter is approaching a value that will actuate the limiter is alleviated.

  When the display of the big hit effect display screen is started, the production control CPU 101 indicates that it has received the special winning opening open designation command indicating that it has received the special winning opening open designation command. It is confirmed whether or not a winning command opening designation command reception flag is set (step S891). If the special winning opening open designation command reception flag is set, the special winning opening open designation command reception flag is reset (step S892), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the handling process during round. (Step S893).

  FIGS. 49 and 50 are flowcharts showing the jackpot end corresponding process (step S888) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the big hit end handling process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the big hit end time timer is set (step S951). When the big hit end time timer is set, the process proceeds to step S971. If the jackpot end time timer is not set, it is checked whether the jackpot end designation command reception flag is set (step S952). When the jackpot end designation command reception flag is set, the jackpot end designation command reception flag is reset (step S953), and the jackpot end time timer is set to the jackpot end time (corresponding to the time required for the jackpot end processing in the game control means). Is set to a value corresponding to the time (step S954).

  Further, when the big hit type is the first hit B, the effect control CPU 101 sets an initial value (30) in the notification counter, and the effect display device 9 according to the value of the notification counter Is displayed (steps S956 and S957).

  Further, when the big hit type is the initial hit A, the effect control CPU 101 decrements the value of the big hit number counter by −1 (steps S958 and S959).

  When the big hit type is the first big hit, the third big hit or the second 'big hit, the effect control CPU 101 decrements the value of the big hit number counter by -1, and sets the value of the notification counter to -1. Then, the effect display device 9 performs display in a mode corresponding to the value of the notification counter (steps S961 and S962).

  In addition, when the big hit type is the second big hit, the effect control CPU 101 initializes the big hit number counter (step S964). That is, 30 is set in the big hit number counter. Then, after the extra effect lottery process is executed (step S965), the effect display device 9 displays an aspect corresponding to the value of the notification counter (step S966).

  In addition, when the big hit type is the 1 'big hit, the production control CPU 101 initializes the big hit number counter (sets 30), sets an initial value (30) in the notification counter, and produces an effect display. In the device 9, a display according to the value of the notification counter is displayed (steps S967 and S968).

  Note that the process of step S968 corresponds to a special effect process executed when the notification update condition is satisfied when the count value of the counting means reaches a predetermined value.

  In step S971, the production control CPU 101 decrements the value of the jackpot end time timer by one. When the value of the big hit end time timer becomes 0 (the big hit end time has elapsed) (step S972), when the big hit type is the first big hit, the third big hit or the initial hit A, the flag is being changed. Is set (step S973). When it is other than the first big hit, the third big hit, and the first hit A, the probability changing flag is reset (step S974). When the big hit type is the initial hit B, the first big hit, the second big hit, the third big hit or the first 'big hit, the high base state flag is set (step S975). When it is other than the initial hit B, the first big hit, the second big hit, the third big hit and the first 'big hit, the high base state flag is reset (step S976). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol variation start designation command reception waiting process (step S881) (step S977).

  FIG. 51 is a flowchart showing the extra effect lottery process in step S965. The effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not to execute the extra effect in the extra effect lottery process. The extra effect is the number of jackpots until the limiter is activated when the limiter is activated and the player is informed of the number of jackpots that can occur before the gaming state changes from the special gaming state to the non-special gaming state. The counter for counting is initialized (in this example, the big hit number counter is set to 30 regardless of the value of the big hit number counter at that time). The effect control CPU 101 determines how much the number of notifications to the player is to be increased if it is determined to execute the extra effect. .

  As shown in FIG. 51, the effect control CPU 101 uses the first table of the effect addition determination tables stored in the ROM when the value of the notification counter is smaller than 5 in the effect addition lottery process. It is determined whether or not to use the additional effect (steps S981, S982). Further, when the value of the notification counter is 5 or more and the value of the big hit number counter is smaller than 10, it is added using the second table of the added effect determination tables stored in the ROM. Is determined (step S983, S984). If the value of the big hit number counter is 10 or more, it is determined whether or not to execute the extra effect using the third table of the extra effect determination tables stored in the ROM (step S985). .

  FIG. 52 is an explanatory diagram of an effect determination table. In the effect determination table, a determination value that is compared with the random number SR1 for determining the additional effect and corresponding to executing the additional effect is set. As shown in FIG. 52, when the first table is used (when the value of the notification counter is 5 or less), it is determined to execute the extra effect at the highest rate. Also, when using the second table (when the value of the big hit number counter is 10 or less), it is higher than when using the third table (when the value of the big hit number counter exceeds 10). It is decided to add the performance at a rate.

  The effect control CPU 101 extracts the added effect determination random number SR1 in the processes of steps S982, S984, and S985, and executes the added effect in which the value of the added effect determination random number is set in the effect determination table. If it matches any one of the determination values corresponding to that, it is decided to execute the extra effect.

  The value of the notification counter is a value notified to the player, and the display effect for notifying the value of the notification counter is that the numerical value updating means sets the count value of the counting means (corresponding to the value of the big hit number counter) to a predetermined value ( In this example, in the notification effect informing the player that the count value of the counting means approaches a predetermined value in response to updating (subtraction in this example) so as to approach 0) at which the limiter operates. Equivalent to. If the value notified to the player is close to the value at which the limiter is activated by the processing of steps S981 and S982, the extra effect is executed at a high rate. Also, if the value of the big hit counter is close to the value at which the limiter will operate (however, it is far from the predetermined value compared to the value of the notification counter for which the first table is to be used) A directing effect is executed at a high rate.

  When the effect control CPU 101 decides to execute the extra effect (step S986), it determines the extra number using the extra number table (step S987). Specifically, the number-of-additions determination random number SR2 is extracted, and the number of additions corresponding to the determination value in the number-of-additions table that matches the value of the number-of-additions determination random number is determined.

  If it is determined not to perform the extra effect (step S986), the value of the notification counter is decremented by 1 (step S989).

  FIG. 53 is an explanatory diagram of an example of the extra number table. In the example shown in FIG. 53, the number of additions “5” corresponds to the determination value “1”, the number of additions “10” corresponds to the determination value “2”, and the number of additions “15” corresponds to the determination value “3”. To do. However, in any case, if the value of the notification counter exceeds 29 when the number of additions is added to the value of the notification counter, 29 is set as the upper limit. For example, when the value of the notification counter is “23” and the number of additions is determined to be “15”, the number of additions determined in the process of step S987 is “6”.

  The effect control CPU 101 adds the number of additions determined in the process of step S987 to the value of the notification counter (step S988). The display effect corresponding to the value of the notification counter after the addition number is added is executed in the process of step S966.

  In this embodiment, even when the value of the big hit number counter is set to 30 (see step S964 in FIG. 50), the value of the notification counter is not increased to 30. That is, it is not notified until “30” which is the initial value of the big hit number counter. However, if it is decided to execute an extra effect in the case of the second big hit (corresponding to the case where the notification update condition is satisfied), the number of times that the player is notified (occurs before the limiter is activated). The number of possible jackpots (though it may be less than the actual number of times) increases so that the player can be expected. )

  In the case of the first big hit, the number of times that the player is notified is the same as the number of big hits that can be generated before the limiter actually operates (see steps S967 and S968 in FIG. 50). . That is, when the 1 'big hit occurs, “30” which is the initial value of the big hit number counter is notified.

  In this embodiment, when the first big hit is generated, the production control microcomputer 100 sets “30” as the initial value in the big hit number counter and sets “30” in the notification counter. However, a value smaller than “30” may be set in the notification counter.

  In this embodiment, when the second big hit occurs, “30” as an initial value is set in the big hit number counter, and the value of the notification counter is increased by “29” as an upper limit by lottery. Alternatively, the value of the notification counter is set to “−1” (see step S989), but the value of the notification counter may not be updated instead of changing the value of the notification counter to “−1”.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the second big hit occurs, the notification counter value is increased up to “29” when it is determined to execute the extra effect by lottery. However, the notification counter As a condition for increasing the value, it may be weighted that the value of the notification counter is smaller than the value of the big hit number counter.

  Note that the number of notifications to the player may be less than the number of big hits that can occur before the limiter actually operates, so the notification is made even though the value of the big hit number counter is not zero. The counter value may become zero. In such a situation, the CPU 101 for effect control stops the value of the notification counter to -1 without stopping the value of the notification counter in the process of step S962.

  FIG. 54 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an extra effect. In the example shown in FIG. 54, the extra effect is realized by the meter image 9a. When the probable big hit occurs when the gaming state is the normal state, as shown in FIGS. 54A and 54A, a display effect for informing “30” is executed as the notification effect.

  Thereafter, the number of notifications every time a big hit occurs decreases (see 54 (A), (b), and (c)). Specifically, the amount notified by the meter image 9a (black portion in FIG. 54) decreases. When the second big hit occurs and it is determined to execute the extra effect, the effect control CPU 101 uses the meter image 9a as the count value of the counting means (the limiter is activated). The value is changed so as to remind the player that the user has moved away from the (value) (see FIGS. 54A and 54D). That is, the amount notified by the meter image 9a is increased. Specifically, the value suggested to the player by the meter image 9a increases.

  FIG. 54 (B) shows an example when the extra effect is not executed. When the probable big hit occurs when the gaming state is the normal state, as shown in FIGS. 54 (B) (a), a display effect that notifies “30” is executed as the notification effect, and then the big hit The number of times of notification is reduced every time it occurs (see FIGS. 54B, 54B, and 54C), but if it is decided not to perform the extra effect even if the second big hit occurs, The meter image 9a is not changed so that the number of times increases (see FIGS. 54B and 54D). That is, the number of differences between the predetermined value corresponding to operating the limiter and the count value of the counting means is not updated.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
In the first embodiment, when the notification update condition is satisfied, the additional effect is immediately executed. However, the additional effect may be executed in a plurality of times.

  In the second embodiment, when the notification update condition is satisfied, the effect control means executes the additional effect in a plurality of times.

  FIG. 55 is an explanatory diagram showing an effect determination table in the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, the effect determination table includes a determination value corresponding to “execute an additional effect immediately” (not separately executed) and “execute an additional effect in multiple times” (divided) A determination value corresponding to (execution of an additional effect) is set.

  FIG. 56 is a flowchart showing an extra effect lottery process in the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 extracts the add-on effect determining random number SR1, and executes the add-on effect using the value of the add-on effect determining random number and the effect determining table shown in FIG. Is determined (steps S981 to S985). If it is decided to immediately execute the extra effect (step S986A), the processes of steps S987 and S988 are executed. If it is not decided to immediately execute the extra effect, the divided extra effect is executed. Is determined (step S991), the number of times of addition is determined using the number-of-additions table (step S992). Further, the number of times of addition is divided into the number of the first half and the number of the second half (step S993). Note that the processing in step S992 is the same as the processing in step S987.

  In addition, the CPU 101 for effect control extracts, for example, a random number in the process of step S993, and a determination value that matches the extracted random number (each determination value includes a plurality of types of addition times (the number of additions (the first half )) And the latter number of times (corresponding to any combination of the number of additions (second half)).

  Then, the value of the extra number (first half) is added to the notification counter (step 994), and the extra number (second half) is stored in the RAM (step S995). Further, the value of the number of additions (first half) is set in the re-addition start determination counter (step S996), and a re-addition necessity flag is set (step S997).

  Other processes in the extra effect lottery process are the same as the processes in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 57 is a flowchart showing a part of the jackpot end corresponding process in the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, in the big hit end handling process, the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the big hit number counter when the big hit type is the first big hit, the third big hit or the second 'big hit. -1 and the value of the notification counter is decreased by 1 (steps S961, S962A). When the type of big hit is not the first big hit or the third big hit (when it is the second big hit), the notification A display according to the counter value is displayed (steps S962B and S962C).

  When the type of jackpot is the first jackpot or the third jackpot, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the re-addition necessity flag is set (step S962D). If the re-addition necessary flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S962I.

  If the re-addition necessity flag is set, the value of the re-addition start determination counter is decremented by 1 (step S962E), and it is confirmed whether or not the value of the re-addition start determination counter has become 0 (step S962F). ). When the value of the re-addition start determination counter becomes 0, the value of the number of additions (second half) stored in the re-addition start determination counter is added to the value of the notification counter (step S962G), The re-addition necessity flag is reset (step S962H). Then, the effect display device 9 displays an aspect according to the value of the notification counter (step S962I).

  When the notification update condition is established by the control as described above, an extra effect divided into two times is realized. The other processes in the big hit end handling process are the same as those in the first embodiment.

  In this embodiment, the presentation effect is executed in two steps, but may be executed in three or more steps. Further, in this embodiment, after a notification effect corresponding to the number of additions (first half) is executed, if a big hit for the number of additions (first half) occurs, a notification effect corresponding to the number of additions (second half). However, the number of jackpots that occur between the first notification effect and the next notification effect is an example of adding the number of times (the first half), and another number of jackpots has occurred. In this case, the next notification effect may be executed.

  The reason why the processes of steps S962D to S962I are not executed in the case of the second 'big hit is that the limiter operates in the case of the second' big hit.

  In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the initial value set in the big hit number counter is “30” (maximum value), and the value of the big hit number counter is 1 each time a big hit occurs. The limiter is activated when the value of the big hit counter becomes “0” as a predetermined value. However, the initial value is set to “0” in the big hit counter and the value of the big hit counter is generated every time a big hit occurs. 1 is added, and the limiter may be activated when the value of the big hit number counter reaches “30” (maximum value, that is, an upper limit value) as a predetermined value.

  Further, in the first embodiment and the second embodiment, when a big hit occurs, the gaming machine is shifted to the high base state with a high probability after the big hit game is finished, and in the high base state, it is normal with a high probability. A gaming machine that has a high probability of winning a start when the symbol of a stop symbol becomes a winning symbol, and that has a high probability of winning if a start winning occurs. In other words, once a big hit has occurred, the gaming machine has a high probability of continuously generating big hits.

  However, when a big hit occurs, the probability change state is controlled with a high probability after the big hit game ends, and until a predetermined number of variable displays are completed (the value of the variation counter is subtracted from the initial value, for example, to 0 as a predetermined value) The present invention can also be applied to a gaming machine controlled to a high base state.

  When the present invention is applied to such a gaming machine, a predetermined big hit (for example, the period of the big hit gaming state is extremely short before the value of the variation counter reaches the predetermined value, but the probability change state is controlled after the big hit game ends. When a big hit to be made: a so-called sudden probability change big hit occurs, the fluctuation counter is initialized. Then, the effect control microcomputer 100 uses the notification counter to execute an extra effect as in the case of the first embodiment and the second embodiment.

  As described above, in the above embodiment, the value of the big hit number counter is set to the predetermined value in response to the fact that the effect control unit has updated the value of the big hit number counter so as to approach a predetermined value (for example, 0). When a notification effect (for example, the effects shown in FIGS. 54A, 54B, and 54C) is executed to notify the player that the vehicle is approaching, and a predetermined notification update condition is satisfied (for example, a second jackpot occurs) In addition, when the extra effect is executed by lottery, the mode of the notification effect is changed so as to remind the player that the value of the jackpot counter is far from the predetermined value (FIG. 54 ( A) (see (d)), when the value of the big hit number counter is closer to the predetermined value than the first numerical value (for example, 10), compared to when the value is farther from the predetermined value than the first numerical value. A high proportion of notification production Since it is changed (addition effect is executed) (see FIGS. 52 (B) and 52 (C)), when the value of the big hit counter is decreased (the remaining number of times until the limiter is operated (the number of possible big hits)) When the number of remaining times is reduced), an effect of notifying the player that the remaining number of times has increased is easily executed, so that it is possible to improve the interest of the game given to the player by notifying the remaining number of times.

  In addition, the effect control means is away from the predetermined value than the second numerical value when executing the notification effect that recalls the second numerical value (for example, a value smaller than 5) closer to the predetermined value than the first numerical value. Since the mode of the notification effect is changed at a higher rate than when the notification effect reminiscent of the value (for example, a value of 5 or more) is executed (see FIGS. 52 (A) and (B)), the notification is performed. When the value to be played is reduced (when the remaining number of notifications is reduced), it becomes easier to perform an effect to notify the player that the remaining number has increased, and the entertainment of the game given to the player by the notification of the remaining number of times Can be improved.

  In addition, the effect control means sets the gaming state to the high base state after the big hit (for example, the first hit A) corresponding to not changing the gaming state to the high base state after the gaming state is ended a number of times in succession. When a big hit (for example, the first hit B) corresponding to the occurrence occurs, an effect (for example, the second big hit shown in FIG. 48 (B)) that emphasizes to the player that the game state is advantageous. Since the medium effect) is executed, it is possible to relieve the disappointment of the player due to the fact that the big hit corresponding to not being in the high base state has continued and the short time until the limiter is activated.

  In the above embodiment, the high base state is assumed as the special state (special game state), but the special state may be a high probability state (probability change state).

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

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

  In the above embodiment, the variation time of the special symbol is constant, but there may be a plurality of variation times of the special symbol.

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

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, since the gaming machine is provided with a stick controller 122 as an operation means, for example, a big hit effect on condition that the player performs an operation using the stick controller 122. (See FIG. 48) may be started. In addition, when such an effect is not performed, the operation means may not be provided.

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

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

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

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

Claims (1)

Variable display means for starting variable display of special identification information and deriving and displaying a display result based on the entry of the game medium into the start area, and a predetermined specific display result derived and displayed on the variable display means A gaming machine that transitions to a specific gaming state that is advantageous to the player,
Predetermining means for deciding whether to derive and display the specific display result before the display result is derived and displayed on the variable display means based on the fact that the game medium has entered the starting area;
A game state control means for controlling the game state after being controlled to the specific game state to either a normal state or a special state in which a game medium is more likely to enter the starting area than the normal state;
The counting means updates the count value of the counting means so as to approach a predetermined value based on the fact that the pre-determining means has determined to be the specific display result, and the counting means is based on a predetermined initialization condition being satisfied. Numerical value updating means for setting an initial value to the count value of
The gaming state control means includes
When the specific display result is derived and displayed in the normal state and controlled to the specific gaming state, the special state is controlled with a predetermined occurrence probability,
When the specific display result is derived and displayed in the special state and controlled to the specific gaming state, at least the count value of the counting means is not controlled to the normal state until the specific value reaches the predetermined value. Control to the special state with a predetermined continuation probability when the predetermined value is reached,
A specific effect means for performing a predetermined effect during the special state and during the specific game state controlled in the special state;
The specific effect means, when the specific display result is derived and displayed in the normal state and controlled to the specific gaming state, and then controlled to the special state, the count value of the counting means and the predetermined value When the difference is greater than or equal to a predetermined number, the first aspect of the effect is started as the predetermined effect, and when the difference is less than the predetermined number, the second aspect of the effect is started. .

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