JP2012148170A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine not having risk of inviting misunderstanding of a player or spoiling interest.SOLUTION: In this game machine, specific time shortening winning ending a special game and bringing a state into a time shortening state in a state that the player does not become aware is performed in addition to probability variation winning as a big winning state is provided. A performance determined according to various kinds of winning/losing states is performed on a performance display device. When determining the performance, a game state in winning/losing decision is decided, and when the specific time shortening winning occurs during probability variation, a display performance wherein a plurality of performing symbols are not aligned in the same symbol, and a display performance indicating a change into the time shortening state from a probability variation state are performed as a performance corresponding to the specific time shortening winning. Thereby, the risk that a performance just like occurrence of an advantageous change is performed to invite the misunderstanding of the player or to spoil the interest can be avoided though a game state does not change advantageously to the player when the specific time shortening winning occurs during the provability variation.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that plays a game by firing a game ball toward a game board surface.

  Various gaming machines are known as gaming machines that play a game by firing a gaming ball toward the surface of the gaming board. Among these gaming machines, a so-called pachinko machine is provided with a plurality of winning holes on the surface of the game board. When a gaming ball enters one of the winning holes, the gaming ball is paid out as a winning ball. Can be received.

  Among these winning holes, special winning holes called “starting holes” and “large winning holes” are provided. When a game ball is inserted into the starting port, the symbol display is started on the symbol display device provided on the game board surface, and after the symbol is displayed variably for a while, the symbol is stopped and displayed on any symbol. If the symbol stopped and displayed at this time is a predetermined “winning symbol”, the special winning opening is opened only for a predetermined period and a so-called special game is started. When the big winning opening is opened, the game ball can easily enter and the player can acquire a lot of prize balls, so the state where the symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device is “big hit” Sometimes called.

  In addition, in order to further enhance the player's interest by giving changes to the game, after the end of the special game, depending on the type of winning symbol, a game state called “probability change state” or a game called “short-time state” Starting a state is also widely done. Here, the “probability change state” is a gaming state in which the probability that the symbol display device stops and displays the winning symbol after the symbol variation display is started is set to a high probability. In addition, the “short time state” is a gaming state in which the variation display time of the symbols in the symbol display device is shortened and the game ball is easy to enter the starting port. In this way, if the “probability change state” or “time-short state” is started according to the type of winning symbol after the special game is finished, the game is changed and it is easy to generate a big hit again. Because it is possible, the interest of the player can be further enhanced.

  Further, in recent years, depending on the type of winning symbol, a technique has been proposed in which a special game is started but ended in a short period in which almost no winning ball is obtained, and the subsequent game state is changed to a probable state (Patent Document 1). ). In the present specification, such a hit mode is referred to as “specific probability change hit”. The specific probability change is disadvantageous compared to a general hit mode in that a prize ball cannot be obtained during a special game, but since a prize ball is not obtained and the game is completed in a short period of time, the player performs a special game. It is normal not to notice what happened. Therefore, when a specific probability change hit occurs, if an effect is given to notify this, the player will feel as if the player has suddenly switched from the normal game state to the probability change state. It can be greatly increased to enhance the interest of the player.

JP 2004-329876 A

  However, such a specific probability change is a hit mode in which the special game is terminated and the probability change state is established without obtaining a prize ball. Therefore, even if a specific probability change occurs in the probability change state, there is no gain for the player. There is nothing to be done. Nevertheless, if the effect of notifying the occurrence of the specific probability change is performed, the player may be misunderstood that some kind of privilege can be obtained. In addition, after it has been found that no benefits can be obtained, the effect of notification is felt to be meaningless for the player, and there is a risk that the entertainment will be cooled. Furthermore, there is a possibility that the player may be discouraged and lose interest in the game, "What if it only has to happen when it is not in a probable state".

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems in the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that does not cause misunderstanding of the player or reduce interest in the game.

In order to solve at least a part of the problems described above, the gaming machine of the present invention employs the following configuration. That is, the gaming machine according to claim 1 is:
A large winning opening that can be switched between a closed state and an open state;
A symbol display device capable of displaying and stopping special symbols;
A determination unit for determining whether or not the special symbol is correct;
A symbol variation starting means for starting the variation display of the special symbol in response to the determination result;
A symbol variation stopping means for stopping and displaying the special symbol during variation display on the symbol display device when a predetermined variation time has elapsed;
As a result of the success / failure determination, when a winning symbol is obtained as a winning symbol corresponding to the winning symbol and the probability variation winning symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device, an operation of opening the special winning opening in a predetermined manner is performed. When a winning symbol is obtained as a result of the determination of success or failure and a symbol corresponding to the winning symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device, the special winning opening is shorter than the predetermined mode. A special prize opening opening means for performing an operation of opening only for a period,
As the gaming state, at least a non-probability change state in which the probability that the result of the determination of success or failure is a normal probability, a probability change state in which the probability is high and the variation time of the special symbol is shortened, It is possible to set the probability that the probability is the normal probability and the short time state in which the variation time of the special symbol is shortened, and the probability variation state is displayed by stopping the probability variation symbol on the symbol display device. Game state setting means for setting and setting the time-short state by stopping and displaying the specific time-short symbol on the symbol display device;
Display effect execution means for executing a predetermined display effect in an effect display device provided separately from the symbol display device;
A gaming machine equipped with
The display effect executing means includes
When the gaming state is set to the non-probability changing state or the probability changing state, a losing is obtained as a result of the success / failure determination, and a losing symbol corresponding to this losing is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device Performs a display effect in which multiple design symbols are not aligned with the same design,
When the gaming state is set to the non-probability changing state or the probability changing state, and the probability variation winning symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device, a display in which a plurality of effect symbols are arranged in the same symbol Directing,
When the gaming state is set to the probability variation state, when the symbol at the specific time short stop is displayed on the symbol display device, a display effect in which a plurality of effects symbols are not aligned with the same symbol, A display effect indicating a change from the certain change state to the short time state is performed.
A gaming machine according to claim 2 is the gaming machine according to claim 1,
The big winning opening means is obtained as a result of the success / failure determination, and when the specific probability variation winning symbol corresponding to the winning is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device, the big winning opening is displayed. Performing an opening operation for a period shorter than the predetermined mode;
The gaming state setting means sets the probability variation state by the specific probability variation symbol being stopped and displayed on the symbol display device,
When the game state is set to the non-probability change state, the display effect execution means is configured such that when the specific probability change symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device, a plurality of effect symbols are the same. It is characterized in that a display effect that is not uniform in a pattern and a display effect that indicates a change from the non-probability change state to the probability change state are performed.
The gaming machine according to claim 3 is the gaming machine according to claim 1 or 2,
When the game state is set to the non-probability change state, the display effect execution means has a plurality of effect symbols that are the same when the symbol time per symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device. It is characterized in that a display effect that does not match with a design and a display effect that indicates a change from the uncertain change state to the short time state are performed.

Further, the gaming machine of Reference Invention 1 disclosed for reference in this specification employs the following configuration. That is,
In a gaming machine that plays a game by firing a game ball toward the game board surface,
A starting opening where game balls can enter,
A large winning opening that can be switched between a closed state and an open state;
A symbol display device that displays symbols related to the success or failure, and is capable of displaying changes and stopping of the symbols;
A determination unit for determining whether or not the game ball has entered the start opening,
A symbol variation starting means for starting the variation display of the symbol in response to the determination result of the success / failure determining means;
A display effect executing means for executing a display effect using a plurality of effect symbols in an effect display device provided separately from the symbol display device, along with the variation display of the symbol,
A symbol variation stopping means for displaying the symbol being varied and displayed on the symbol display device when a predetermined variation time has elapsed; and
As a result of the success / failure determination, when a winning symbol is obtained as a winning symbol corresponding to the winning symbol and the probability variation winning symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device, an operation of opening the special winning opening in a predetermined manner is performed. As a result of the determination of success / failure, when a winning symbol corresponding to this hit is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device as a symbol corresponding to the winning symbol, the special winning opening is shorter than the predetermined mode. A special prize opening opening means for performing an operation of opening only for a period,
Either a non-probability change state in which the probability that the result of the success / failure determination is a hit is a normal probability and a probability change state in which the probability is a high probability can be set as a gaming state, and the probability change hit symbol or A game state setting means for setting the probability variation state when the specific probability variation symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device;
With
The display effect executing means includes
When the gaming state is set to the non-probability changing state or the probability changing state, when the probability change winning symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device, the plurality of effect symbols are arranged in the same symbol. Display presentation,
When the gaming state is set to the non-probability changing state or the probability changing state, a losing is obtained as a result of the success / failure determination, and a losing symbol corresponding to this losing is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device Performs a display effect in which the plurality of effect symbols are not aligned with the same symbol,
When the gaming state is set to the non-probability changing state, when the specific probability change symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device, the display effect in which the plurality of effect symbols are not aligned with the same symbol And a display effect indicating that the gaming state changes advantageously,
When the gaming state is set to the probability variation state, if the specific probability variation symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device, the display effect in which the plurality of effects symbols are not aligned with the same symbol, And a display effect indicating that the game state does not change.

In the gaming machine of the reference invention 1, even if a “specific probability change” occurs, the probability that a game ball will enter the big prize opening is low, but if it is not in the probability state, the probability determined to be the winning mode Is changed to a high probability, and the game state changes to a state advantageous to the player. On the other hand, if it is already in the probability state, even if the “specific probability change hit” occurs, it does not change to any advantageous state for the player. Therefore, when a “specific probability change” occurs when the probability variation state is set, a display effect in which a plurality of effect symbols are not aligned with the same symbol, and a display effect indicating that the gaming state does not change I do.
In this way, it is possible to avoid the effect that the game state does not change to an advantageous state for the player, but to change to an advantageous state. It is possible to avoid misleading the player or cooling the player's interest in the game.

In addition, the gaming machine of Reference Invention 2 disclosed for reference in this specification employs the following configuration. That is,
In a gaming machine that plays a game by firing a game ball toward the game board surface,
An opening that can be switched between an open state in which a game ball can enter and a normal state in which it is more difficult to enter the ball than the open state;
A large winning opening that can be switched between the open state and the normal state;
A symbol display device that displays symbols related to the success or failure, and is capable of displaying changes and stopping of the symbols;
A hit / miss state determination means for determining any one of the hit / miss modes including a normal hit, a probability change, a specific short time hit, and a disengagement when triggered by the game ball entering the start opening,
In response to the determination result of the hit / fail mode determining means, symbol variation starting means for starting the variation display of the symbol,
Display effect execution means for executing a predetermined display effect according to the determination result of the success / failure mode determination means with an effect display device provided separately from the symbol display device, along with the variation display of the symbol,
A symbol variation stopping means for stopping and displaying the symbol being variably displayed on the symbol display device according to the determination result of the success / failure mode determining means;
When the symbol stopped and displayed on the symbol display device corresponds to the normal hit or the probability variation, an operation of opening the big prize opening in a predetermined manner is performed, and the stop display is displayed on the symbol display device. In the case where the symbol made corresponds to the specific short time, a big winning opening opening means for performing an operation of opening the big winning opening for a period shorter than the predetermined mode;
When the symbol stopped and displayed on the symbol display device corresponds to the probability change, the symbol stopped and displayed on the symbol display device after the end of the operation of the big prize opening opening means Probability changing means for setting the probability determined when corresponding to the hit mode to a probability higher than normal,
When the symbol stopped and displayed on the symbol display device corresponds to any one of the hit modes, the variation time of the symbol on the symbol display device after the end of the operation of the winning opening opening means And a time-shortening means for extending the opening time of the starting port,
The display effect execution means displays on the effect display device the display corresponding to the detachment mode when the specific short time hit is obtained as the determination result of the success / failure mode determination means during the operation of the probability variation means. It is characterized by performing.

  In the gaming machine of the reference invention 2, when the game ball of the starting port enters, the success / failure mode includes a plurality of success / failure modes including “normal hit”, “probable hit”, “short time per specified time”, and “off”. In addition to being determined from any of the above, the symbol display means starts the variable display of symbols. Then, the symbols that are variably displayed are stopped and displayed with the symbols that correspond to the determined rejection mode. At this time, if the symbol that is stopped and displayed is a symbol corresponding to an aspect other than “displaced”, the big winning opening is opened in a predetermined manner, but in particular, the symbol corresponding to the “specific probability variation” aspect In such a case, as compared with the case of the symbol corresponding to “normal hit” or “probable hit”, the operation for opening the big prize opening is performed for a short period of time. In addition, when the symbol displayed in a stopped state corresponds to the “probable hit” mode, the stop display mode is determined as one of the winning modes after the operation of opening the big prize opening is completed. The probability that the probability is higher than normal (that is, the state where the probability changing means is activated).

  In a gaming machine having such a configuration, even if a “short time for a specific time” occurs, it is unlikely that a game ball will enter the winning prize opening, but if the probability variation means is not activated, it will be displayed on the symbol display device. Since the variation time of the symbol is shortened and the opening time of the start port is extended, the game state changes to a state advantageous to the player. On the other hand, if the probability changing means has already been operated, the operation of the probability changing means ends. Therefore, when a “short time for a specific time” occurs, the gaming state changes to a disadvantageous state for the player. Therefore, if the probability changing means is activated when the change of the symbol is started, a display effect corresponding to the off-state is performed on the effect display device even if the “specific time short hit” occurs. Here, the display effect corresponding to the mode of losing is not limited to the effect of stopping and displaying the design in the mode of losing, for example, displaying a new effect screen, or some or all of various effects performed at the time of losing Can be included.

  In this way, it is possible to avoid the effect that the game state does not change to an advantageous state for the player, but to change to an advantageous state. It is possible to avoid misleading the player or cooling the player's interest in the game.

In the gaming machine of Reference Invention 2 described above, during the operation of the probability varying means, the symbol variation display is started on the symbol display device, and the symbol stopped and displayed by the symbol variation starting means is “specific time shortening”. In the case of a symbol corresponding to the “winning” mode, a predetermined special effect may be performed as a display effect corresponding to the off mode performed on the effect display device.
As described above, when the short time hit occurs during the operation of the probability changing means, the operation of the probability changing means is ended, so that the game state changes in a disadvantageous direction for the player. Therefore, in such a case, the player can make a strong impression that the game state may change in an unfavorable direction if a predetermined special effect is performed instead of the display effect corresponding to the losing. As a result, the game is rich in changes, and it is possible to strongly attract interest in the game.

Of course, even in such a gaming machine, when the symbol corresponding to the “specific probability change” mode is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device during the operation of the probability varying means, the “specific” is displayed on the effect display device. Instead of an effect corresponding to “probable hit”, a display effect corresponding to an outlier may be performed.
In this way, depending on the case where the gaming state changes in a direction that is unfavorable for the player or does not change unfavorably for the player but does not change in any advantageous direction. Thus, an appropriate display effect can be performed.

Alternatively, in the gaming machine of the reference invention 2 described above, when the variable display of the symbol is started on the symbol display device during the operation of the time shortening means, the symbol stopped and displayed on the symbol display device is “specified”. Even in the case of a symbol corresponding to the “short-time win” mode, a display effect corresponding to the off-mode may be performed on the effect display device.
Although it is unlikely that a game ball will enter the big prize opening even if a short hit occurs at a specific time, if the time reduction means is not activated, the time for changing the symbol will be shortened and the opening time of the start opening will be extended. Thus, the game state changes to an advantageous game state for the player. On the other hand, if the time reduction means has already been activated, even if the specific time reduction hit occurs, the time period may be extended, but the gaming state does not change advantageously for the player. Therefore, if the time shortening means is activated when the change of the symbol is started, even if the symbol corresponding to the specific short time is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device, the mode of detachment on the effect display device A display effect corresponding to is performed.
In this way, it is possible to avoid the effect that the state of the game changes to a state that is advantageous to the player even though the time period is extended at most. As a result, it is possible to avoid misleading the player or cooling the player's interest in the game.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a gaming machine that does not cause a misunderstanding of the player or reduce interest in the game.

It is a front view of the gaming machine of the present embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the board surface structure of a game board. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the symbol display apparatus mounted in the gaming machine of a present Example. It is explanatory drawing which shows the screen structure of the effect display apparatus mounted in the game machine of a present Example. It is the block diagram which showed the structure of the control circuit in the game machine of a present Example. It is explanatory drawing which showed notionally the mode that the normal symbol is variably displayed. It is explanatory drawing which showed notably the mode that the special symbol was variably displayed. It is explanatory drawing which illustrated the one aspect | mode of the effect performed with an effect display apparatus. It is the block diagram which expressed the process currently performed inside various control boards paying attention to the function. It is the flowchart which showed the rough flow of the game control processing performed by CPU mounted in the main control board. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a normal electric accessory stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a part of special symbol game process. It is the flowchart which showed the remaining part of the special symbol game process. It is explanatory drawing which showed notionally the success / failure determination table referred in order to perform the determination of the special symbol's success / failure. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the special symbol fluctuation | variation pattern setting process performed in a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a special electric accessory game process. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the presentation control process performed by a sub control board. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the specific per production content setting process performed in production control processing. It is explanatory drawing which illustrated various production contents set up by specific per production content setting processing.

Hereinafter, in order to clarify the contents of the present invention described above, examples will be described in the following order.
A. Pachinko machine configuration:
A-1. Configuration on the front side of the device:
A-2. Game board configuration:
A-3. Configuration of control circuit:
B. Overview of the game:
C. Game machine control details:
C-1. Game control processing:
C-1-1. Special design game processing:
C-1-2. Special electric game game processing:
C-2. Production control processing:
C-3. Specific content production process:

A. Pachinko machine configuration:
A-1. Configuration on the front side of the device:
FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the front portion of the gaming machine 1 is mainly composed of a front frame 4, an upper plate portion 5, a lower plate portion 6, a game board 10, and the like. In FIG. 1, detailed illustration of the game board 10 is omitted. The front frame 4 is attached to a middle frame 3 (not shown), and the middle frame 3 is attached to a main body frame 2 (not shown). The middle frame 3 is formed of a plastic material and is attached to the inside of the main body frame 2. The main body frame 2 is a substantially rectangular frame formed by assembling wooden plate-like members, and forms an outer frame of the gaming machine 1. One end of the front frame 4 is pivotally supported with respect to the middle frame 3, and one end of the middle frame 3 is pivotally supported with respect to the main body frame 2. The game board 10 is detachably attached to the front side of the middle frame 3, and the front side is covered with the front frame 4.

  The front frame 4 is formed of a plastic material, and a circular opening 4a is formed at a substantially central portion. A transparent plate such as a glass plate is fitted in the opening 4a, and the board surface of the game board 10 disposed on the back side can be visually recognized. Further, the front frame 4 is provided with various lamps 4b to 4f for enhancing the game effect.

  An upper dish portion 5 is provided below the front frame 4, and a lower dish portion 6 is provided below the upper dish portion 5. Further, a locking device 9 is provided on the right side of the front frame 4, and a prepaid card type ball lending device 13 <CR unit) is provided on the left side of the front frame 4.

  The upper dish portion 5 is provided with a dish-shaped recess and a dish outer edge portion 5a formed so as to surround the recess. The game ball is thrown into a recess formed in the upper plate part 5 and supplied to the launching device unit 12 (see FIG. 5). The dish outer edge 5a is provided with various buttons such as a game ball lending switch 5b, a return switch 5c, and a discharge button for discharging the inserted game ball. Furthermore, a first speaker 5y having a plurality of long holes and a large number of small holes formed thereon is provided at a substantially central portion of the upper plate part 5.

  The lower plate part 6 is provided with a discharge port 6 a for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1, and the discharged game balls are stored in the lower plate part 6. Further, second speakers 6 c are provided on the left and right sides of the lower surface of the lower dish portion 6.

  A firing handle 8 is provided at the right end of the lower plate portion 6. The firing handle 8 is provided with a touch switch 8a for detecting that the player is touching the handle. The rotation axis of the launching handle 8 is connected to a launching device unit 12 (not shown) mounted on the back side of the lower pan 6, and when the player rotates the firing handle 8, the movement of the launching handle 8 is caused to the launching device unit 12. Then, a launch motor (not shown) built in the unit rotates, and a game ball is launched with a strength corresponding to the rotation angle. On the left side surface of the launch handle 8, a launch stop switch 8b that is operated by the player to temporarily stop the launch of the game ball is disposed.

A-2. Game board configuration:
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a board surface configuration of the game board 10. As described above, the game board 10 is detachably attached to the front side of the middle frame 3. As shown in FIG. 2, a substantially circular game area 11 surrounded by an outer rail 14 and an inner rail 15 is formed at the center of the game board 10.

  A central device 26 is provided in the approximate center of the game area 11, a variable winning device 18 is provided in a lower portion of the gaming area 11, and between the central device 26 and the variable winning device 18. A starting port (ordinary electric accessory) 17 is provided. The starting port (ordinary electric accessory) 17 is a so-called tulip type starting port configured such that a pair of blade pieces can be opened and closed on the left and right. Inside the start port 17, there are a start port (ordinary electric accessory) switch 17s (see FIG. 5) for detecting the passing of the game ball, and an ordinary electric accessory (start port) solenoid 17m for operating the wing piece. (See FIG. 5). When the pair of wing pieces are opened to the left and right, an opening state in which the game ball is likely to enter is in an open state, and the pair of wing pieces are upright, and the game ball is in a normal state in which the possibility of entering is small.

  An effect display device 27 is provided substantially in the center of the central device 26. The effect display device 27 is equipped with a liquid crystal screen, and can change and display various effect symbols such as character symbols and background symbols. Various symbols displayed on the screen of the effect display device 27 will be described later.

  A symbol display device 28 is provided at the lower left of the central device 26. Although the detailed configuration will be described later, the symbol display device 28 can display normal symbols, special symbols, and the like in a variable stop manner.

  A normal symbol operation gate 36 is provided at the left end of the game area 11, and a gate switch 36 s for detecting the passage of the game ball is provided inside the gate. Further, a lamp windmill 24 is provided between the normal symbol operating gate 36 and the central device 26. A number of obstacle nails 23 are provided between and around each of these gaming devices.

  In the variable winning device 18 provided below the central device 26, a large winning device 31 is provided substantially in the center. This special winning device 31 is composed of a special winning opening 31d that opens substantially in a substantially rectangular shape, a special winning opening solenoid 31m (see FIG. 5) for opening and closing the special winning opening 31d, and the like. The special winning opening 31d is in an open state when a predetermined condition to be described later is satisfied. As a result, the game ball enters the big winning opening 31d with a high probability, and is a special gaming state advantageous to the player. A gaming state is started. Note that a big prize opening switch 31s is provided inside the big prize opening 31d, and it is possible to detect a game ball won in the big prize opening 31d.

  An out port 48 is provided below the game board 10, and a back ball preventing member 58 is provided below the out port 48. The back ball prevention member 58 has a function of preventing a game ball that has returned without reaching the game area 11 from returning to the launch position.

  FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the symbol display device 28 mounted on the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment. The symbol display device 28 of the present embodiment is a specific example of the symbol display means of the present invention, and is mainly composed of a normal symbol display unit 29 and a special symbol display unit 30. The normal symbol display unit 29 includes a left normal symbol display unit 29a and a right normal symbol display unit 29b, and the special symbol display unit 30 includes a left special symbol display unit 30a and a right special symbol display unit 30b. Has been. The two normal symbol display portions 29a and 29b are configured by using light emitting diodes (LEDs), the left normal symbol display portion 29a lights red light, and the right normal symbol display portion 29b lights green light. It is possible to do. The special symbol display unit 30 uses a so-called 7-segment LED. Of these, the 7 segment portion constitutes the left special symbol display portion 30a, and the comma portion constitutes the right special symbol display portion 30b. Yes. The 7-segment portion and the comma portion can be lit with red, orange, or green light. In addition, the symbol display device 28 is also provided with a normal symbol hold display unit 29c and a special symbol hold display unit 30c. Each of these consists of four LEDs. The display contents of the symbol display device 28 having such a configuration will be described later.

  FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the screen configuration of the effect display device 27 installed in the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment. As described above, the effect display device 27 is mainly configured by using a liquid crystal display screen, and on the liquid crystal screen, three character symbols 27a, 27b, 27c and a background symbol 27d of the background are displayed. ing. Among these, the three character symbols 27a, 27b, and 27c are variably displayed in various manners in accordance with the display of the special symbol 30 shown in FIG. 3 so that a game can be produced. Detailed contents of the effects performed by the effect display device 27 will be described later.

A-3. Control circuit configuration:
Next, the configuration of the control circuit of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control circuit in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the control circuit of the gaming machine 1 is composed of a number of control boards, various boards, relay terminal boards, and the like. The main control board 200 that controls the success / failure involved, the sub-control board 220 that controls the control of the game using lamps and sound effects, and the effect control board 230 that controls the control of the game using the design symbols And a payout control board 240 for controlling the operation of paying out a rented ball and a prize ball, and a launch control board 260 for controlling the game ball. These control boards include a CPU that executes various logic operations and calculation operations, a ROM that stores various programs and data executed by the CPU, a RAM that stores temporary data when the program is executed, and peripheral devices. Peripheral device interface (PIO) for exchanging data with the CPU, an oscillator that outputs a clock for the CPU to perform operations, a watchdog timer for monitoring the CPU runaway, and a CTC (counter that periodically generates an interrupt signal) A variety of peripheral LSIs such as a timer circuit are connected to each other via a bus. Also, the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 5 represents the direction in which data or signals are input / output. In FIG. 5, only the CPU 201 and RAM 202 mounted on the main control board 200 are shown, and mounted on other control boards such as ROM, PIO, and sub-control board 220 mounted on the main control board 200. The CPU, RAM, ROM, etc., are not shown.

  As shown in the drawing, the main control board 200 receives a game ball detection signal from the start port switch 17s, the big prize port switch 31s, the gate switch 36s, etc. Are determined, commands for instructing various operations are output toward the sub-control board 220, the effect control board 230, the payout control board 240, the launch control board 260, and the like. Further, the main control board 200 includes a normal electric accessory solenoid 17m for opening and closing a pair of blade pieces provided at the start port 17, a large prize opening solenoid 31m for opening and closing the big prize opening 31d, and The symbol display device 28 for displaying the fluctuation stop of the normal symbol and the special symbol is connected via the relay terminal board, and outputs signals to these various solenoids 17m and 31m and the symbol display device 28. Thus, the operation is also controlled.

  When the sub-control board 220 receives various commands from the main control board 200, it analyzes the contents of the command and produces a game according to the result. That is, the command control board 230 that controls the above-described effect display device 27, the amplifier board 224 that drives the various speakers 5y and 6c, the decoration drive board 226 that drives the various LEDs and lamps for decoration, The game is rendered by outputting the drive signal.

  The payout control board 240 is responsible for various controls relating to so-called ball rental and prize ball payout. For example, when the player operates the ball lending switch 5b or the return switch 5c provided in the above-described upper plate part 5, this signal is transmitted from the ball lending display board 242 to the ball lending device 13 via the relay terminal board. Is done. The ball lending device 13 pays out a ball while exchanging data with the payout control board 240. When the main control board 200 outputs a prize ball payout command, the payout control board 240 receives this command and outputs a drive signal to the payout motor 109m to pay out the prize ball.

B. Overview of the game:
Next, an outline of the game performed in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment having the above-described configuration will be briefly described.

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, a game is performed as follows. First, when a player throws a game ball into the recess of the upper plate portion 5 and rotates the launch handle 8, the game balls thrown into the upper plate portion 5 are supplied to the launcher unit 12 one by one, The game area 11 is fired as described above with reference to FIG. The strength at which the game ball is launched can be adjusted by the rotation angle of the launch handle 8, and the player can aim the game ball by changing the rotation angle of the launch handle 8.

  When the launched game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 36 provided on the left side of the game area 11, the normal symbol variation display is started on the symbol display device 28. As described above with reference to FIG. 3, the symbol display device 28 is provided with the left normal symbol display unit 28a and the right normal symbol display unit 28b. The left normal symbol display unit 28a is configured to be capable of lighting red light, and the right normal symbol display unit 28b is configured to be capable of lighting green light. When the normal symbol variation display is started, the left and right normal symbol display portions 28a and 28b perform blinking display.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram conceptually showing a state in which normal symbols are variably displayed. The normal symbol in the variable display can take the four states shown in the figure. First, the state shown in FIG. 6A represents a state in which the left normal symbol display unit 29a is turned on and the right normal symbol display unit 29b is turned off. FIG. 6B shows a state where both the left normal symbol display unit 29a and the right normal symbol display unit 29b are lit. FIG. 6C shows a state in which the left normal symbol display unit 29a is turned off and the right normal symbol display unit 29b is turned on. FIG. 6D shows the left normal symbol display unit 29a and the right normal symbol display. Each of the portions 29b represents a state where the light is extinguished. During the normal symbol variation display, these four display states are displayed in such a manner that they are switched one after another at a high speed, and when a predetermined time elapses, they are stopped and displayed in one of the four display states. At this time, when the display is stopped in a predetermined display state, a so-called normal symbol is hit and the start port 17 is in an open state for a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds). In the present embodiment, the display state shown in FIG. 6C, that is, the state in which the left normal symbol display unit 29a is turned off and the right normal symbol display unit 29b is lit is set for the normal symbol. Yes.

  If the game ball passes through the normal symbol operation gate 36 during the normal symbol variation display, the passing of the game ball is stored as the number of holdings, and after the current normal symbol variation display is completed, the variation display is displayed. Done. Up to four normal symbol holds can be stored, and the stored number of normal symbols is displayed on the normal symbol hold display section 29c (see FIG. 3).

  Next, when a game ball enters the start port 17 that is in an open state, a special symbol variation display is started. The special symbol is displayed by the special symbol display unit 30 as described with reference to FIG. As described above, the special symbol display unit 30 of this embodiment is composed of the left special symbol display unit 30a composed of 7-segment LEDs and the right special symbol display unit 30b of the comma portion. The symbol display sections 30a and 30b can be lit in red, orange, or green.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram conceptually showing a state in which special symbols are variably displayed. During the special symbol variation display, the symbol “A” or “Y” is displayed on the left special symbol display unit 30a, and the comma “.” Is displayed on the right special symbol display unit 30b. Further, “A” and “Y” in the left special symbol display unit 30a and the comma “.” In the right special symbol display unit 30b can take three states of red, orange, and green. In the special symbol display unit 30 of the present embodiment, these display states can be combined to display 12 types of states shown in FIG. In the figure, the 7-segment LED or the comma portion that is finely hatched indicates that it is lit in a red state. In addition, a little rough hatching indicates that it is lit and displayed in an orange state, and a rough hatching indicates that it is lit and displayed in a green state. . When the special symbol variation display is started, these 12 types of display states are displayed in such a manner that they are switched one after another at a high speed, and when a predetermined time elapses, the display is stopped and displayed in any state.

  Among the 12 types of display modes shown in FIG. 7, a combination of red “Y” and red “comma” (hereinafter, this combination is expressed as “red Y-red dot”), and The combination of orange “Y” and red “comma” (that is, “orange Y-red dot”) is an off symbol, and the remaining 10 combinations of symbols are hit symbols. After the special symbol is variably displayed on the symbol display device 28, when the symbol that has been stopped is a winning symbol, a so-called special gaming state is started, and a gaming state in which the special winning opening 31d is opened in a predetermined manner ( Round) is repeated a predetermined number of times.

  If a game ball enters the start port 17 during the special symbol variation display, the game ball entry is stored as the number of special symbols held, and after the current special symbol variation display ends, Fluctuation display is performed. It is possible to store up to four special symbols on hold, and the number of stored special symbols is displayed on the special symbol hold display section 30c (see FIG. 3).

  In addition, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, in addition to “normal hit symbol” and “probability variable symbol”, “specific probability variable symbol” and “specific short-time symbol” are provided. In FIG. 7, “normal winning symbol” is surrounded by a broken line, and “probable variation winning symbol” is surrounded by a solid line. In addition, the “specific probability variation symbol” is surrounded by a one-dot chain line, and the “specific time-short symbol” is surrounded by a two-dot chain line. When the special symbol of the symbol display device 28 is stopped and displayed as “normal winning symbol” or “probable winning symbol”, the special gaming state is started and the round in which the special winning opening 31d opens in a predetermined manner is 15 Repeat until round. As described above, since the game ball can easily enter when the special winning opening 31d is in the open state, the player can acquire a large number of prize balls before the 15th round is completed. Such a game state is a so-called “hit”. In addition, even after the special game state ends, for a while, the opening time of the start port 17 is extended so that the game ball can easily enter the start port 17 and the fluctuation time of the normal symbol and the special symbol is shortened. State (so-called short-time state). In addition, when the winning symbol is “probable variation winning symbol”, the probability that the winning symbol is stopped and displayed again is set to a high value. A gaming state in which the probability of being stopped and displayed with a winning symbol is high is called a probability variation state (or probability variation state). In this way, when the “normal winning symbol” or the “probable variation winning symbol” is stopped and displayed, the player can proceed with the game very advantageously. It is normal to do.

  On the other hand, the special gaming state is also started when the special symbol on the symbol display device 28 is stopped and displayed as “specific probability change symbol” or “specific time per symbol”. After the special game state is finished, if the game is stopped with the “specific probability change symbol”, the above-described probability change state and the short time state are started. The short-time state is started. However, the special game state in the case of being stopped and displayed with these “specific probability change symbols” or “specific time-short symbols” ends in two rounds. In addition, one round ends when the grand prize winning opening 31d is opened for a very short time. For this reason, even if these “specific probability change hits” or “specific short hits” are stopped and a special game is started, almost no prize balls are paid out and the game ends in a very short time. The game is continued without noticing that the special game has been performed. As a result, when the symbol display device 28 is stopped and displayed with the “specific probability change symbol”, the player feels as if the normal gaming state has suddenly changed to the probability variation state, When the display is stopped by “design”, it feels as if the normal gaming state has suddenly switched to the short-time state. In addition, the number of rounds when stopped and displayed in the “specific probability variation symbol” or “specified short-term symbol” is the number of rounds when the “normal per symbol” or “probability variation symbol” is stopped (this example) If it is a plurality of times less than 15 times, it is possible to set 3 rounds, 4 rounds, etc. instead of 2 rounds.

  In this way, the special symbol variably displayed on the symbol display device 28 is stopped and displayed in which symbol greatly influences the gaming state. However, the 12 types of special symbols shown in FIG. 7 correspond to any one of “ordinary winning symbol”, “probable variation symbol”, “specific certain variation symbol”, “specified short-time symbol”, or “out-of-range symbol”. Such determination is not always easy. Therefore, in accordance with the above-described change stop display of the special symbol, the effect display device 27 also performs the effect of causing the character symbols 27a, 27b, and 27c to be displayed with the change stopped.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an aspect of the effect performed by the effect display device 27. As described above with reference to FIG. 4, the three character symbols 27 a, 27 b and 27 c are displayed on the liquid crystal display screen constituting the effect display device 27. When the variation display of the special symbol is started on the symbol display device 28 described above, also on the effect display device 27, these three character symbols 27a, 27b, and 27c start the variation display all at once. In the present embodiment, as a character design, a design in which nine numbers from “1” to “9” are designed is prepared.

  FIG. 8 (a) conceptually shows how the three character symbols 27a, 27b, and 27c are variably displayed. When a predetermined time elapses after the variable display is started, the left character symbol 27a is first stopped and displayed in any one of “1” to “9”, and then the right character symbol 27c is stopped and displayed. The middle character symbol 27b is stopped and displayed.

  The combination of the three character symbols 27a, 27b, and 27c that are stopped and displayed on the effect display device 27 is configured to be interlocked with the combination of the special symbols that are stopped and displayed on the symbol display device 28 described above. For example, when the special symbol of the symbol display device 28 stops at “normal hit symbol”, the three character symbols 27a, 27b, and 27c of the effect display device 27 are stopped and displayed with the same symbol representing an even number, In the case of stopping at “symbol”, the display is stopped with the same symbol representing an odd number. On the other hand, when the special symbol of the symbol display device 28 stops at “specific probability variation symbol” or “specific hourly short symbol”, the three character symbols 27a, 27b, and 27c are stopped and displayed in a predetermined combination that does not align with the same symbol. In the case of stopping at the “off symbol”, the three symbols are stopped and displayed in an arbitrary combination that does not match the same symbol.

  As described above, the special symbols displayed on the symbol display device 28 and the three character symbols 27a, 27b, and 27c displayed on the effect display device 27 correspond to each other in the display contents, and the respective display symbols are displayed. The timing for confirmation is also set the same. In addition, as shown in FIG. 2, the effect display device 27 is provided at a position that is more easily noticeable than the symbol display device 28, and the display screen is large and the display content is easy to understand. It is normal to play a game while looking at the screen of the device 27. Therefore, when the left character symbol 27a initially stopped and displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 27 and the right character symbol 27c subsequently stopped and displayed are the same symbol, it is stopped and displayed last. The player pays attention to the variation of the symbol so that the middle character symbol 27b may stop at the same symbol and become a so-called big hit state. In this way, the effect of variably displaying the last symbol with the two character symbols stopped at the same symbol is called a reach effect, and it is possible to increase the interest of the player by performing the reach effect. It has become.

  Further, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, even when the three character symbols 27a, 27b, and 27c are not aligned with the same symbol in the effect display device 27 (so-called “split eyes”), it is not always “out”. In some cases, the symbol display device 28 may be stopped and displayed as “specific probability variation symbol” or “specific time short symbol”. However, since the special symbols of the symbol display device 28 are set to similar symbols, it is difficult to discriminate between “deviated symbols” and “specific probability variation per symbol” or “specific short-time per symbol”. Also, the character symbols that are stopped and displayed on the effect display device 27 are exactly the same in that they are “split eyes” in which the three symbols are not aligned, and are difficult to discriminate. In addition, the special game state that is performed after "specific probability change per" or "specific time short hit" ends in a very short time without obtaining a prize ball. Is often not noticed.

  Eventually, when a “special probability change hit” or “specified short-time hit” occurs, the player is granted some kind of privilege suddenly (ie, without stopping at the winning symbol and thus without any special game) during the game. It is felt that the gaming state has changed advantageously. For example, when a “specific probability change hit” occurs, the game state suddenly switches to the probability change state even though the fluctuation of the symbol stops at “break” and no special game is played. I can feel it. Similarly, when a “short time for a specific time” occurs, the game state suddenly switches to the short time state even though the fluctuation of the symbol stops at “break” and no special game is played. It will feel like Giving a bonus to a player in such a form is something that has not been done with conventional gaming machines, and this seems to be novel for the player and can greatly enhance the interest in gaming. It has become.

  FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing processing performed inside various control boards in order to realize the above-described control, paying attention to functions. As shown in FIG. 5, the main control board 200 is composed of various electronic components such as the CPU 201 and the RAM 202. If attention is paid to the functions realized by these electronic components, the main control board 200 is as shown in FIG. It can be divided into “symbol fluctuation start part”, “symbol fluctuation stop part”, “big prize opening opening part”, “probability fluctuation part”, “short time part” and the like. These “symbol fluctuation start part”, “symbol fluctuation stop part”, “big prize opening opening part”, “probability fluctuation part”, and “time reduction part” are configured mainly by the CPU 201.

  Here, the “symbol variation start unit” means that, when it is detected that a game ball has entered the start port 17, the special symbol variation display on the symbol display device 28 described above is started, and whether or not the special symbol is correct / incorrect. Is a part that realizes the function of determining any of the following aspects: “normal hit”, “probable change hit”, “specific probability change hit”, “specified short-time hit”, and “out”. One specific example is shown. As described above, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the display on the symbol display device 28 and the display on the effect display device 27 are interlocked with each other, so that the variable display on the symbol display device 28 is started. Although it is indirect, it is to start the variable display of the effect display device 27, and to determine whether or not the special symbol is correct or not determines the correct or incorrect state of the character symbol displayed on the effect display device 27. It is also a thing.

  The “symbol fluctuation stop unit” is a part that realizes a function of stopping and displaying the symbol display device 28 with the determined special symbol after determining the special symbol to be stopped and displayed in accordance with the determined failure mode. A specific example of the symbol variation stopping means of the invention is shown. When the symbol display device 28 is stopped and displayed, the effect display device 27 is also stopped and displayed. Therefore, it is considered that the “symbol variation stopping unit” has a function of stopping the symbol variation in the effect display device 27. Is also possible.

  In addition, the “big winning opening” is determined by the above-mentioned “design variation start portion” as “winning” (ie, “normal winning”, “probable changing”, “specific certain changing”, “specific”). In the case of “one of the shortest times”), a part that realizes the function of repeating the operation of opening the special winning opening 31d in a predetermined manner by driving the special winning opening solenoid 31m only a predetermined number of times. There is a specific example of the special winning opening means of the present invention. In addition, the “large winning opening” of the present embodiment, when the rejection mode is “specific probability per hit” or “specific time per hit”, compared to “normal hit” or “probability per hit”, It is difficult for game balls to enter, and the large winning opening is opened only for a short period of time, and the number of opening the large winning opening is also multiple times (for example, two times less than in the case of “normal hit” or “probable hit” ).

  “Probability variation part” means that when the special symbol is “probability hit” or “specific probability change”, the “big winning opening opening” ends the operation of opening the big winning opening 31d. This is a part that realizes the above-described function of setting the probability variation state with respect to the “symbol variation start unit”, and shows a specific example of the probability variation means of the present invention. When the “symbol variation start portion” is set to the probability variation state, a game ball enters the start port 17 and the variation of the special symbol is started. The probability determined in the “hit” mode is higher than the normal probability. In addition, the “short-time portion” means that after the special winning pattern is “normal hit” or “specific short-time hit”, the “large winning opening opening” ends the operation of opening the large winning opening 31d. , A part for setting the effect of shortening the variation time of the special symbol to the “symbol variation stop portion” and realizing the function of extending the opening time of the start port 17, and one specific example of the time shortening means of the present invention Is shown. These “probability changing part” and “time saving part” both give gaming benefits so that the gaming state will be advantageous to the player after the operation of the “large winning opening” is completed. Therefore, these can be collectively understood as a “privilege grant unit” (privilege grant means).

  On the other hand, the sub control board 220 and the production control board 230 are also configured by various electronic components such as a CPU and a RAM. If attention is paid to the functions realized by these control boards, the two control boards are respectively It can be considered that the “display effect execution unit” is composed mainly of the CPU. Here, the “display effect execution unit” is determined between when the special symbol variation display is started by the “symbol variation start unit” and until the variation display is stopped by the “symbol variation stop unit”. This is a part that realizes a function of performing a predetermined display effect using the effect display device 27 in accordance with whether or not the special symbol is present, and shows a specific example of the display effect executing means of the present invention. For example, the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “winning” mode by changing the ending of the production depending on whether the special symbol is “normal hit” or “probable hit” and “out”. It is possible to produce an effect that greatly excites the joy of the time. In addition, when the special symbol's success / failure mode is “specific probability change per hit” or “specific time per hit”, as described above, the player feels as if the gaming state has suddenly changed to the probability change state or the time short state. By performing the production according to it, it is possible to make the player more impressed that the gaming state has changed advantageously and to enhance the interest in the game.

  However, even if the “specific probability change hit” occurs when the gaming state is in the probability variation state, the gaming state remains in the probability variation state and does not change to an advantageous state. Similarly, even if a “short time for a specific time” occurs when the gaming state is a short time state, the gaming state does not change to an advantageous state. Further, when the “specific short time hit” occurs when the gaming state is in the probability changing state, the probability changing state is changed to the time saving state, so that the gaming state is rather changed to a disadvantageous state. In such a case, if an effect similar to that in the case where the gaming state is advantageously changed, various adverse effects are concerned. For example, the player may misunderstand that some kind of gaming privilege is granted. In addition, after it has been found that the privilege cannot be obtained, the production is felt to be meaningless, and there is a possibility that the interest in the game is cooled.

  Therefore, in the “display effect execution unit” of the present embodiment, the “design variation start unit” does not perform a predetermined effect simply according to whether or not the special symbol is determined according to the “design variation start unit”. When the variation display of the special symbol is started, it is determined whether or not the “probability variation portion” and the “time saving portion” are operating, thereby changing the aspect of the effect. In other words, if a “specific probability change” occurs during the operation of the probability variation part or a “specific time reduction hit” occurs during the operation of the time-shortening part, it will be disregarded in place of the effects corresponding to the respective hit modes. An effect on the aspect of is performed. In such a case, no change occurs in the gaming state. Therefore, if an effect corresponding to “displacement” is performed, the game can be continued without causing the player to feel uncomfortable.

  In addition, when “specific short-time hit” occurs during the operation of the probability changing unit, an effect corresponding to “out” or a predetermined special effect is performed instead of an effect corresponding to “specific short-time hit” . In such a case, since the gaming state changes from the probabilistic state to the short-time state to an unfavorable state, it is possible to greatly reduce the sense of incongruity given to the player by performing an effect corresponding to “displacement”. it can. Alternatively, the following may be performed. First, a special effect corresponding to the change of the gaming state from the probability changing state to the time saving state is set in advance. And when “specific short-time hit” occurs during the operation of the probability varying means, the game state is changed by performing a special effect that has been set instead of the production corresponding to “specific short-time hit”. Try to impress the player that it has changed to an unfavorable state. By doing so, it is possible to give a greater change to the progress of the game, so that the player's interest can be strongly attracted to the game.

  In the following, details of the control executed centering on the main control board 200 and the sub control board 220 in order to realize such effects will be described in detail.

C. Game machine control contents:
The progress of the game performed in the gaming machine 1 is controlled by the main control board 200. Various effects performed as the game progresses are executed by the sub control board 220 and the effect control board 230 connected to the sub control board 220 under the control of the main control board 200. In the following, first, the game control process performed on the main control board 200 to advance the game will be described, and then the effect control process performed on the sub-control board 220 in order to produce an effect in accordance with the progress of the game. Will be described.

C-1. Game control processing:
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a rough flow of a game control process performed by the CPU 201 mounted on the main control board 200 to control the progress of the game. As shown in the figure, in the game control process, each process such as a prize ball-related process, a normal symbol game process, a normal electric player game process, a special symbol game process, and a special electric player game process is repeatedly executed. The time required for one round of processing is about 4 msec. Therefore, these various types of processing are repeatedly executed about every 4 msec. During these processes, various commands are transmitted to various control boards including the sub control board 220. By doing so, the game of the entire gaming machine 1 proceeds. The game control process performed by the CPU 201 mounted on the main control board 200 will be described below according to the flowchart.

  When starting the game control process, the CPU 201 mounted on the main control board 200 performs a process (pay ball related process) for paying out a game ball as a prize ball (S50). In this process, it is detected whether or not a game ball has entered a switch related to winning a game ball (such as the start opening switch 17s or the big prize opening switch 31s) among various switches connected to the main control board 200. To do. When a game ball is detected, the number of prize balls to be paid out is calculated, and then a process for outputting a prize ball number designation command to the payout control board 240 is performed.

  When the award ball number designation command output from the main control board 200 is added, the payout control board 240 interprets the contents of the command. And according to the result, a drive signal is output to the payout motor 109m mounted in the payout device 109, and the process of actually paying out the winning ball is performed.

  When the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 outputs a prize ball number designation command (S50), this time, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol game processing is performed, that is, whether or not the normal symbol variation stop display is performed (S100). ). Such a determination is made by detecting whether or not the game ball has passed through the normal symbol operation gate 36 or whether or not the number of normal symbols held (see FIG. 3) is set. If the game ball has passed through the normal symbol operation gate 36 or if the number of normal symbols held is set, it is determined that the normal symbol game processing is performed (S100: yes). It is determined not to be performed (S100: no). In addition, when the game ball passes the normal symbol operation gate 36 during the normal symbol variation display, an operation of adding until the number of normal symbols held reaches the upper limit “4” is also performed along with this determination.

  If it is determined that the normal symbol game process is to be performed (S100: yes), the normal symbol game process described below is performed (S150). On the other hand, when it is determined not to perform the normal symbol game process (S100: no), the normal symbol game process (S150) is skipped.

  In the normal symbol game process (S150), the following process is performed. First, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol is correct, and it is determined whether the normal symbol is stopped and displayed with the winning symbol (see FIG. 6C) or with any other outlier symbol. Next, after setting the normal symbol fluctuation display time, the normal symbol fluctuation display is started. When the variable display time has elapsed, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed with the determined symbol. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed at this time, the operation of the normal electric accessory is started. . In the normal symbol game process, as described above, the movement stop display of the normal symbol is performed, and when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning symbol, the process of operating the normal electric accessory is performed. When the ordinary electric accessory operates, the pair of blade pieces provided at the start port 17 rotate outward, and the start port 17 is in an open state.

  When the normal symbol game process is completed as described above, it is determined whether or not the normal electric accessory is operating (S190). If it is in operation (S190: yes), a process for stopping the ordinary electric accessory (ordinary electric accessory stopping process) is performed (S200). On the other hand, when the ordinary electric accessory is not operating (S190: no), it is not necessary to perform the ordinary electric accessory stopping process, and the process is skipped.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the flow of the ordinary electric accessory stopping process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates according to a flowchart. In the ordinary electric accessory stop process, first, it is determined whether or not a predetermined operating time of the ordinary electric accessory has passed (S202). As described above, when the ordinary electric accessory is operated, the start port 17 is in an open state, but when a predetermined time has elapsed, the pair of blade pieces are restored to the normal state in which they are upright again. Therefore, in S202, it is determined whether or not the normal electric accessory has reached a preset operation time. If it is determined that the operating time has been reached (S202: yes), after stopping the operation of the ordinary electric accessory (S206), the ordinary electric accessory game process is terminated and the game control shown in FIG. Return to processing. Note that the normal electric accessory operating time (that is, the opening time of the start port 17) is set to about 0.5 seconds in the normal gaming state, but is about 1.5 when the opening time extending function described later is operated. Extended to seconds.

  On the other hand, when a prescribed number of game balls enter the opening 17, the start port 17 returns to the normal state even when the opening time has not reached the set time. Correspondingly, if the operating time of the ordinary electric accessory has not reached the predetermined time (S202: no), it is determined whether or not a specified number of game balls have entered the ordinary electric accessory ( S204) When it is determined that a specified number of game balls have entered (S204: yes), the operation of the ordinary electric accessory is stopped and the ordinary electric accessory game process shown in FIG. 11 is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no prescribed number of balls (S204: no), the ordinary electric game game process shown in FIG. Return to the game control process shown in.

  As shown in FIG. 10, in the game control process, it is determined whether or not to start the special symbol game process when returning from the ordinary electric accessory stop process (S300). Such a determination is made as to whether or not a game ball has entered the start port 17, whether or not a special symbol holding number (see FIG. 3) is set, and whether or not the condition device is operating. Do by detecting. Here, the condition device is a device that is a condition for operating the accessory continuous operation device, and the special symbols are “normal hit symbol”, “probable hit symbol”, and “specific probability variable symbol” shown in FIG. This is a device that starts operation when any one of the “designated short time symbols” is stopped. The condition device operates the accessory continuous operation device, thereby starting a game (so-called special game) in which the special winning opening 31d is continuously opened. Then, it is determined that the special symbol game process is to be performed if the game ball has entered the start port 17 or if the number of special symbols to be held is set and the condition device is not in operation (S300: yes). In other cases, it is determined that the special symbol game process is not performed (S300: no). In addition, when a game ball enters the start port 17 during the special symbol variation display, an operation of adding until the number of special symbols held reaches the upper limit “4” is also performed along with this determination.

  If it is determined that the special symbol game process is to be performed as a result of the above determination (S300: yes), the special symbol game process described below is performed (S320). On the other hand, when it is determined not to perform the special symbol game process (S300: no), the special symbol game process (S320) is skipped.

C-1-1. Special design game processing:
12 and 13 are flowcharts showing the flow of the special symbol game process. When the special symbol game process is started, first, it is determined whether or not the special symbol is changing (S322). As described above with reference to FIG. 3, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the special symbol display unit 30 is provided in the symbol display device 28, and the special symbols can be variably displayed.

  If the special symbol on the special symbol display unit 30 is not changing (S322: no), it is determined whether it is during the display time for displaying the special symbol stop symbol (S324). That is, since the display time for the player to confirm the stop symbol is provided for a while after the change display of the special symbol is finished, it is determined whether or not the display time is during the display time. When it is confirmed that the special symbol is not variably displayed and the display time for displaying the special symbol stop time has elapsed (S324: no), the number of special symbols held is “0”. It is determined whether or not there is (S326). If the number of special symbol reservations is not “0”, in other words, if special symbol reservations remain (S326: no), whether or not the special symbol is appropriate is started.

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, prior to determining whether or not a special symbol is appropriate, it is determined whether or not the probability of jackpot occurrence is in a high probability state (probability variation state) (S328). The probability variation state is when the special symbol displayed on the special symbol display unit 30 is stopped at either the “probability variation symbol” or the “specific probability variation symbol” shown in FIG. It continues until the next special game starts. Therefore, in S328, it is determined whether or not the current gaming state is a probable change state. If the probable change is in progress (S328: yes), whether or not the special symbol is determined in a state where the probability of jackpot is set high. A determination is made (S330). On the other hand, if the probability change is not in progress (S328: no), whether the special symbol is true or not is determined with the probability of jackpot set to a normal value (S332).

  The special symbol determination is made by referring to the following determination table. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram conceptually showing a success / failure determination table referred to in order to determine whether or not a special symbol is successful in the special symbol game process of this embodiment. As shown in the figure, the success / failure determination table includes a probability change table shown in FIG. 14B and a non-probability change table shown in FIG. 14A. The special symbol success / failure determination random number is stored in association with one of the “normal hit”, “probability change”, “specific probability change”, “specific short-time hit”, and “out”. . Further, as is clear from a comparison between FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B, the probability change success / failure determination table has a higher probability of winning than the non-probability change success / failure determination table. Here, the special symbol success / failure determination random number is a random number that is acquired when a game ball enters the start port 17 and stored in the RAM 202 on the main control board 200. In S328 to S332 of the special symbol game process shown in FIG. 12, it is determined whether or not the probability change is in progress prior to the determination of whether or not the special symbol is correct. If the probability change is in progress, the success / failure determination table shown in FIG. With reference to whether or not the special symbol is determined, if the probability change is not in progress, the determination of whether or not the special symbol is determined is made with reference to the determination table of FIG. 14A. As described above, when it is determined whether or not the special symbol is appropriate, a process for setting a variation pattern of the special symbol is performed (S338).

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing (special symbol variation pattern setting processing) for setting a variation pattern of a special symbol in the special symbol game process. When the special symbol variation pattern setting process is started, first, it is determined whether or not the determination result is a positive hit (S3381). If it is a probability variation (S3381: yes), a variation pattern of the stop symbol and the special symbol for probability variation is determined (S3383). As shown in FIG. 7, since four symbols are set as the probability variation per symbol, one of the symbols is determined by lottery, and more than one variation pattern is set. One variation pattern is determined by lottery. Next, in preparation for opening the grand prize opening in the special electric accessory game process to be described later, the opening time of the big prize opening (large prize opening opening time) and the continuous operation number of the accessory continuous operation device are set to standard values. (S3385).

  On the other hand, when the result of the determination is not a positive hit (S3381: no), it is determined whether or not the normal hit is obtained (S3387). And when it is judged that it was normal hit (S3387: yes), by performing lottery, any one of the four normal hit symbols shown in FIG. 7 and the special symbol change After the pattern is determined (S3389), the opening time of the big winning opening (large winning opening opening time) and the number of continuous operations of the accessory continuous operating device are set to standard values (S3385).

  If the result of the determination is not a normal hit (S3387: no), it is next determined whether or not the hit is a specific probability change (S3391). And when it is judged that it is a specific probability variation (S3391: yes), a specific probability variation symbol and a special symbol variation pattern are determined (S3393). In the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, since only one specific probability variation symbol is set, if the determination result is a specific probability variation, a lottery is performed. The stop symbol can be determined without any change. Further, since only one special symbol variation pattern is set for specific probability variation, it can be determined without performing a lottery. Of course, it is also possible to provide a plurality of types of variation patterns corresponding to specific probability variation symbols and specific probability variation, and determine these by lottery.

  Once the stop symbol and special symbol variation pattern for the specific probability variation are determined in this way, the opening time of the big prize opening (large prize opening time) and the number of continuous operation of the accessory continuous operation device are the values for the specific probability variation. (S3395). In the present embodiment, the large winning opening opening time per specific probability change and specific time short is set to about 0.2 seconds, and the number of continuous operations is set to two.

  If it is determined that the result of the determination is not a specific probability variation (S3391: no), it is determined whether or not the specific time is short (S3397). If it is determined that the specific short time per win is determined (S3397: yes), the specific short time per symbol and the special symbol variation pattern are determined (S3399). Similarly to the above-mentioned specific probability variation, the specific short-time hit can be determined without performing a lottery because only one type of variation pattern of the winning symbol and the special symbol is set. Of course, it is also possible to set a plurality of special short-time symbols and variation patterns and determine them by lottery.

  Next, the opening time of the special winning opening (large winning opening opening time) and the number of continuous operations of the accessory continuous operation device are set to values for specific short time (S3401). In the present embodiment, the large winning opening opening time for the specific short time and the number of continuous operations are set to the same values as the large winning opening opening time and the number of continuous operations for the specific probability variation.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the result of the determination is not a short time at a specific time (S3397: no), it is not one of “probability per hit”, “normal hit”, “specific per hit per change”, or “specific short per hit”. Since it can be determined that the determination result is “displacement”, it is sufficient to determine a stop symbol and a variation pattern for removal. However, in the case of “disappearing”, there are a case where it is disengaged after the reach effect and a case where it disengages without reaching the reach effect. Therefore, before determining the stop symbol and the variation pattern, first, a lottery is performed to determine whether or not a reach effect is to be performed (S3403). Then, depending on the presence or absence of the reach effect, the stop symbol and the variation pattern of the special symbol are respectively determined by lottery (S3405).

  When the special symbol stop symbol and the variation pattern are determined according to the determination result by performing the above-described processing, the special symbol variation pattern setting process shown in FIG. Return to symbol game processing.

  When the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 returns from the special symbol variation pattern setting process, after starting the variation display of the special symbol on the symbol display device 28 (S340), the CPU 201 performs a process of subtracting 1 from the special symbol reservation number (S342). ). As described above, the symbol display device 28 of this embodiment can display the twelve kinds of special symbols shown in FIG. 7, and performs variable display by switching the display of these symbols one after another. Also, when the special symbol variation display is started, the number of special symbols held is consumed, so 1 is subtracted from the data of the number of special symbols stored in the RAM on the main control board 200. It is.

  When the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 subtracts 1 from the number of special symbol reservations, after outputting a change pattern designation command to the sub-control board 220 (S344), it outputs a special symbol stop information designation command (S346). . The variation pattern designation command output here is a command for designating the special symbol variation pattern determined in the special symbol variation pattern setting process shown in FIG. The special symbol stop information designation command is a command for designating a special symbol stop symbol determined together with the variation pattern.

  The variation pattern designation command and the special symbol stop information designation command are output toward the sub-control board 220. When the CPU 221 on the sub-control board 220 side receives these commands and acquires the special symbol variation pattern and the special symbol stop symbol, after determining the effect mode in the effect display device 27 based on these information, Various effects are performed. The effect mode determined by the sub-control board 220 is output to the effect control board 230, and the effect control board 230 controls the effect display device 27, so that various effects are performed. The process (effect control process) performed on the sub control board 220 will be described later.

  As described above, the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 determines the variation pattern of the special symbol and the stop symbol of the special symbol, and sends the variation pattern designation command and the special symbol stop information designation command corresponding to these to the sub-control board. When output is directed to 220, the special symbol game process shown in FIG. 12 is terminated, and the process returns to the game control process shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the special symbol on the special symbol display unit 30 is fluctuating in the process of S322 immediately after the special symbol game process is started (S322: yes), the fluctuation pattern of the special symbol is already stopped. It is considered that the symbol has been determined and the change in the special symbol has started. Therefore, it is determined whether or not the special symbol variation time has elapsed (S348). That is, since the variation time of the special symbol is determined in advance according to the variation pattern, it is determined whether a predetermined variation time has elapsed by setting the timer at the same time as the variation of the special symbol is started. If the variation time has not yet elapsed (S348: no), the special symbol game process is terminated as it is, and the process returns to the game control process shown in FIG. On the other hand, if it is determined that the variation time has elapsed (S348: yes), a symbol design command for the character design that is variably displayed on the effect display device 27 is output toward the sub-control board 220 (S350). The special symbol of the special symbol display unit 30 that is variably displayed on the symbol display device 28 is stopped and displayed (S352). Then, after setting a display time for stopping and displaying the special symbol on the symbol display device 28 (S354), it is determined whether or not the set display time has passed (S356). If the display time has not elapsed (S356: no), the special symbol game process is terminated as it is, and the process returns to the game control process shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, when the special symbol stop display time has elapsed (S356: yes), it is determined whether or not the special symbol that has been stopped and displayed is a symbol that will activate the condition device (S358 in FIG. 13). Here, the symbol that activates the condition device is one of the normal hit symbol, the probability variation hit symbol, and the specific hit symbol shown in FIG. 7 (that is, the hit symbol). In S358 of FIG. 13, it is determined whether or not the symbols stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 30 of the symbol display device 28 are those winning symbols.

  When the stop-displayed symbol is a symbol that activates the condition device (S358: yes), the condition device and the accessory continuous activation device are activated (S360). Here, the condition device is a device that becomes a condition for operating the accessory continuous operation device to be described later, and the special symbol is the above-mentioned “probable per symbol”, “normal per symbol”, “specific probability per unit”, Or it is an apparatus which starts the operation when the stop display is made with any of the “designated short-time symbols” and puts the special winning opening 31d into an open state. In addition, the accessory continuous operation device is a device that reopens the once closed special winning opening 31d. The details will be described with reference to another drawing. By operating the condition device and the accessory continuous operation device in this way, when the special symbol game process is exited and the game control process of FIG. It will be started and a special game will be started.

  Further, in the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment, the probability changing function and the time shortening function do not work when the condition device and the accessory continuous operation device are operated. The time reduction function is a function for shortening the time for which the symbols are variably displayed on the symbol display device 28 and the effect display device 27. Therefore, when the condition device and the accessory continuous operation device are operated in S360 of FIG. 13, it is determined whether or not the current gaming state is being changed (S362). If the probability change is in progress (S362: yes), the probability change function and the time shortening function are operating, so these functions are stopped (S364). On the other hand, if the current gaming state is not in a certain change (S362: no), it is checked whether or not the time is short (S368). (S370). Further, in the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment, when the time reduction function is activated, the function of extending the opening time of the ordinary electric accessory also works. Therefore, if the time reduction function is stopped in S364 or S370, the normal electric operation is performed. After the function opening time extension function is also stopped (S366), the special symbol game process shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 is exited, and the game control process shown in FIG. 10 is resumed. On the other hand, if the game state when the condition device and the accessory continuous action device are operated in S360 is neither probabilistic nor time-saving (S368: no), the special symbol game process is exited and the game control process is resumed. .

  As described above, the processing in the case where the special symbol stopped and displayed on the symbol display device 28 is a symbol that activates the conditional device (S358: yes) has been described. If the symbol is not activated (S358: no), the following processing is performed.

  First, it is determined whether or not the current gaming state is being changed (S372). As described above, in the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment, the probability variation state is set to continue until the next special gaming state occurs. Therefore, if it is determined that the current gaming state is a probability variation state (S372: yes), the special symbol game processing shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 is exited while maintaining the probability variation state, and the game of FIG. Return to control processing.

  If it is determined in S372 that the current gaming state is not being changed (S372: no), it is determined whether or not the time is short (S374). If it is determined that the time is short (S374: yes), after counting the number of fluctuations of the special symbol during the time reduction (S376), it is determined whether or not the number of fluctuations has reached a predetermined number (S378). In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the time reduction state is set to continue until the next special game state occurs or the special symbol rotates a predetermined number of times (here, 100 times). Therefore, if the current gaming state is short (S374: yes), it is determined whether or not the number of changes in the special symbol has reached a predetermined number (S378). If the predetermined number of times has been reached (S378: yes), the time reduction function is stopped (S380), and then the function for extending the ordinary electric accessory opening time is also stopped (S366), and then FIG. 12 and FIG. The special symbol game process shown in FIG. 10 is exited, and the game control process of FIG. 10 is resumed. On the other hand, if the number of fluctuations of the special symbol has not yet reached the predetermined number (S378: no), the special symbol game process is exited while maintaining the short time state, and the game control process of FIG. 10 is resumed.

C-1-2. Special electric game game processing:
As shown in FIG. 10, in the game control process, when returning from the special symbol game process, it is determined whether or not the condition device is in operation (S390). As described above, the condition device is a device that starts a so-called special game by operating the accessory continuous operation device. Therefore, the CPU 201 mounted on the main control board 200 starts the special electric accessory game process described below if the condition device is operating (S400). On the other hand, if the condition device is not in operation (S390: no), the special electric accessory game process (S400) is skipped.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the flow of the special electric accessory game process. A so-called special game state is generated by executing the special electric accessory game process. Hereinafter, the special electric accessory game process will be described with reference to FIG. 16, but as a preparation, the contents of a game called a so-called special game state will be briefly described.

  As described above with reference to FIG. 2, a special winning opening 31d is provided below the game board, and the special winning opening 31d is closed in a normal gaming state. However, when the special game is started, the special winning opening 31d is opened. The “special electric accessory” referred to in the present specification is a device that opens the special winning opening 31d. Since the big winning opening 31d is opened larger than the other winning openings, when the big winning opening 31d is in an open state, the game ball enters with high probability. The opened large winning opening 31d is once closed when a predetermined opening time elapses or a predetermined number of game balls enter, but becomes open again when a predetermined closing time elapses. The “container continuous operation device” referred to in this specification is a device that reopens the special winning opening 31d. A game from when the special winning opening 31d is opened until it is closed is called “round”. When these rounds are repeated and a predetermined number of rounds are consumed, the special game ends.

  In addition, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, “special probability variation per symbol” and “specific time per symbol” are set in the special symbol, and when the condition device and the accessory continuous operation device are activated by these symbols, The following special games are held. That is, after the special winning opening 31d is opened for about 0.2 seconds, it is closed immediately and one round is finished, and if this is repeated two rounds, the special game is finished. A special game performed in this manner is completed in a very short time with almost no game balls entering the grand prize opening 31d, and therefore, no prize balls are paid out. The game will continue without noticing that the game has been played.

  The special game described above is realized by the CPU 201 mounted on the main control board 200 performing the special electric accessory game process shown in FIG. Hereinafter, the detailed processing content will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the special electric accessory game process is started, the CPU 201 first determines whether or not the special winning opening 31d is open (S402). The special winning opening 31d is closed in the normal gaming state, and therefore, the special winning opening 31d is closed immediately after the start of the special game. Therefore, it is determined that the special winning opening is not open (S402: no), and it is determined whether or not the number of continuous operations of the special electric accessory has reached a predetermined number (S404). In the special symbol variation pattern setting process described above with reference to FIG. 15, the number of continuous operations of the special electric accessory is 15 times for “probable change” or “normal hit”, and for “specific probability change” or “specified short-time hit”. It is set to 2 times. The special electric accessory is a device that opens the special winning opening 31d. When a special gaming state occurs, the special electric accessory operates a predetermined number of times, and a predetermined number of rounds are repeated. . Corresponding to this, when the special winning opening 31d is closed (S402: no), whether or not the number of times of operation of the special electric accessory has reached a predetermined number, in other words, a predetermined number of rounds is determined. It is determined whether or not the processing has been completed (S404).

  As a matter of course, immediately after the special game is started, the number of times of operation of the special electric accessory has not reached the predetermined number (S404: no), so it is determined whether or not the closing time of the special winning opening has elapsed. (S406). The closing time of the big prize opening is a time during which the big prize opening 31d is in a closed state between rounds. Immediately after the special game is started, the special winning opening 31d is in a closed state, so it is naturally determined that the closing time of the special winning opening has passed (S406: yes), and the special winning opening 31d is opened. After having been made (S408), the special electric accessory game process shown in FIG. 16 is once ended, and the process returns to the game control process of FIG.

  When the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 returns to the game control process, as shown in FIG. 10, after performing a series of various processes after the prize ball related process (S50), the special electric game game process (S400) again. To start. As described above, the time required for the CPU 201 of the main control board 200 to execute the game control process shown in FIG. 10 once is about 4 msec. Therefore, the special electric accessory game process shown in FIG. 16 is also executed about every 4 msec. Then, when the special game is started and the special electric accessory game process of FIG. 16 is executed for the first time, as described above, the special winning opening 31d is opened in S406 and the process is ended as it is. When the second round process is performed after 4 msec, it is determined in S402 that the special winning opening 31d is being opened.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the opening time of the special winning opening 31d has reached a predetermined time (S410). As described above, in the special game, the special winning opening 31d is in an open state, but is closed when the opening time reaches a predetermined time or when a predetermined number of game balls enter the special winning opening 31d. In response to this, in S410, it is determined whether or not the opening time of the special winning opening 31d has reached a predetermined time. If the opening time has reached the predetermined time (S410: yes), after closing the special winning opening 31d (S414), the special electric accessory game process shown in FIG. 16 is exited, and the game control of FIG. Return to processing. On the other hand, if the opening time has not reached the predetermined time (S410: no), it is determined whether or not the number of game balls that have entered the special winning opening 31d has reached a specified number (S412). When the number of game balls reaches the specified number (S412: yes), the special winning opening 31d is closed (S414). On the other hand, when the prescribed number has not been reached (S412: no), the opening time of the special winning opening 31d has not yet reached the predetermined time, and the number of game balls that have entered the special winning opening 31d is also the prescribed number. Since the special winning combination game process shown in FIG. 16 is left open, the game control process shown in FIG. 10 is resumed.

  While the game control process of FIG. 10 is repeatedly executed, whether the opening time of the special winning opening 31d reaches a predetermined time (S410: yes in FIG. 16) or a predetermined number of games in the special winning opening 31d. The ball enters (S412: yes), and the special winning opening 31d is closed (S414). Thus, one round of game is completed. Then, when the special electric accessory game process is executed next, it is determined in S402 that the special winning opening 31d is closed (S402: no), and it is determined whether or not a predetermined number of rounds have ended (S404). If all rounds have not been completed (S404: no), after confirming that the closing time of the big prize opening has reached a predetermined time (S406: yes), the big prize opening 31d is again opened and a new one is opened. A round is started (S408). As described above, when the symbol for which the condition device is to be activated is “specific probability variation symbol” or “specific short-time symbol”, the opening time of the special winning opening 31d is about 0.2. Since it is set to the second, the opening time elapses immediately even if the special winning opening 31d is opened (S410: yes), and it is closed again (S414), and one round is completed.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in S404 that the predetermined number of rounds have been completed (S404: yes), the operation of the condition device and the accessory continuous operation device is stopped to end the special game (S416). In addition, as described above, when the symbol that causes the condition device to operate is “designated probability variation per symbol” or “specific time per symbol”, the number of rounds is set to two, Immediately after, it is determined that the predetermined number of rounds have ended (S404: yes), and the operation of the condition device and the accessory continuous operation device is stopped (S416).

  When the special game is completed as described above, it is determined whether or not the special symbol for operating the condition device is the “probable variation per symbol” or the “specific certain variation per symbol” (S418). And when it is judged that it is any of these symbols (S418: yes), after the operation of the probability variation function is started (S420), the opening time extension function and the time-shortening function of the ordinary electric accessory are started. (S428, S430), the special electric accessory game process shown in FIG. 16 is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the special symbol that causes the condition device to operate is neither the “probable variation per symbol” or the “specific certain variation per symbol” (S418: no), “normal per symbol” or “specific Since it is considered that the condition device has been activated by the “short-time symbol”, after starting the opening time extension function and the short-time function of the ordinary electric accessory without starting the operation of the probability changing function (S428, S430), The special electric accessory game process shown in FIG. 16 is terminated, and the process returns to the game control process of FIG.

  As described above, when the special electric accessory game process shown in FIG. 16 is started by the “specific probability variation symbol” or “specific time short symbol”, the special gaming state is completed in a very short time. Resulting in. Furthermore, since the three character symbols displayed on the effect display device 27 corresponding to these symbols are also the same “disjoint” as when “disconnected”, the special game can be played without the player's knowledge. When it is “per certain specific change”, the probability change function, open time extension function, and short time function start operation, and when “per specific time short period”, the open time extension function and short time function are activated. Will start.

  The CPU 201 mounted on the main control board 200 can advance the game of the gaming machine 1 by repeatedly performing the game control process as described above. As the game progresses, various commands such as a special symbol variation pattern designation command, a stop information designation command, and a symbol stop command are output to the sub-control board 220. The sub control board 220 performs various effects based on the command output in this way. In addition, when a “specific probability change hit” or “specific short-term hit” occurs, the special game can be terminated without the player being aware, and the operation of the probability change function or the time reduction function can be started. If the presentation corresponding to this is performed on the sub-control board 220, it is possible to greatly enhance the interest of the player. Hereinafter, a process (effect control process) in which various commands output from the main control board 200 are received and the sub control board 220 performs a game effect will be described.

C-2. Production control process:
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the flow of effect control processing performed by the sub-control board 220 to produce a game. This process is a process that is automatically started by the CPU 221 mounted on the sub control board 220 after power is supplied to the sub control board 220 after completion of a predetermined initial operation. Hereinafter, it demonstrates according to a flowchart.

  In the effect control process, first, it is determined whether or not a special symbol variation pattern designation command is received from the main control board 200 (S1002). Here, the special symbol variation pattern designation command is a command that is set in the special symbol variation pattern setting process described above with reference to FIG. 15 and designates the variation pattern. When a special symbol determination is made in the special symbol game process of FIG. 12, a special symbol variation pattern designation command is output from the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 220. Therefore, the sub-control board 220 is output. The CPU 221 can know whether or not a special symbol has been determined based on whether or not this command has been received. If it is determined that a special symbol variation pattern designation command has not been received (S1002: no), the process waits while repeating this determination until a command is received.

  On the other hand, if a variation pattern designation command has been received (S1002: yes), it is determined whether a special symbol stop information designation command has been received (S1004). Here, the special symbol stop information designation command is a command for designating a special symbol stop symbol set in the special symbol variation pattern setting process described above with reference to FIG. This command is output continuously. If it is determined that a special symbol stop information designation command has not been received (S1004: no), the process stands by while repeating this determination until a command is received.

  When it is determined that the special symbol variation pattern designation command and the special symbol stop information designation command have been received in this way (S1002: yes, S1004: yes), the result of the determination as to whether or not the main control board 200 performs is “specific certain variation”. It is determined whether or not “winning” or “specified short-time winning” is met (S1006). As described above, the special symbol stop information designation command is a command for designating a special symbol stop symbol. Therefore, whether or not the result of the determination is "specific probability change per hit" or "specific short time per hit" A determination can be easily made based on such a command.

  If it is determined that it falls under “specific probability change hit” or “specific short-term hit” (S10096: yes), if the effect according to the current game state is not executed, the effect content becomes inappropriate, and the game There is a risk that it will cool off the interests of the elderly. Therefore, in order to prevent this from happening, a specific hit effect content setting process described later is performed (S1100). On the other hand, if the determination result is neither “specific probability change hit” nor “specific short time hit” (S1006: no), the specific hit effect content setting process may be skipped.

  When the special symbol variation pattern designation command and special symbol stop information designation command output from the main control board 200 are received and the above processing is performed, the designated variation pattern (or the specific per effect production content setting processing is set) The display of the character symbol on the symbol display device 28 is started in a manner corresponding to the effect content), and various effects are output (S1008). In such processing, the variation pattern and specific effect contents may be associated in advance and an effect corresponding to the change pattern may be started, or a plurality of effect contents may be set for the change pattern. In addition, it is good also as performing a lottery and determining the specific production content.

  Next, it is determined with which symbol the character symbol that is changing is to be stopped and displayed (S1010). That is, in the special symbol stop information designation command, the special symbols of the symbol display device 28 are “normal hit symbol”, “probable variable symbol”, “specific certain variable symbol”, “specific short-time symbol”, and “out of symbol”. Therefore, the sub-control board 220 displays the stop symbol of the character symbol in alignment with the special symbol that is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device 28 based on such information. Perform the decision process. For example, if the special symbol is stopped and displayed with the "normal hit symbol", the stop symbol is determined so that the three character symbols are aligned with the same number of even numbers, and if the stop symbol is displayed with the "probable hit symbol", The stop symbols are determined so that the same number of odd numbers are aligned. In addition, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed with “specific probability variation per symbol” or “specific short time per symbol”, it is determined that the three character symbols are aligned with a predetermined “split eyes”, and the special symbol is “ In the case of “out of symbol”, the three character symbols are determined so as to be aligned at any “disjoint” (however, different from the specific probability variation or the specific short time per unit). In addition, in the specific hit effect content setting process described later, when the process of setting the effect content corresponding to the specific hit (specific probability change or specific short time hit) is performed, the character design is stopped according to the set content. The design may be changed.

  After determining the character symbol stop symbol, the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 determines whether or not a symbol symbol stop command has been received (S1012). If the symbol stop command has not been received (S1012: no), the process stands by until the command is received. When a symbol stop command is received (S1012: yes), the character symbol is stopped and displayed with the previously determined stop symbol (S1014). In this way, the effect content is determined by various commands supplied from the main control board 200, and when the symbol stop command is received, the change display of the symbol is stopped. An appropriate effect is performed in accordance with the game control process (see FIG. 10) to be performed.

  When the character symbol is stopped and displayed as described above, the game state is stored for reference in the specific hit effect content setting process described later (S1016), and then the process returns to the top step and the following series of processes are performed. repeat. In the effect control process of this embodiment, it is determined whether or not the probability variation function is operating and whether the time reduction function is operating as the gaming state, and a flag indicating the determination result is displayed as a sub-control board 220. Is stored at a predetermined address of a RAM mounted on the. If the special symbol win / fail determination result is “specific probability change” or “specific short-time hit” (S1006: yes), a specific hit production content setting process described below is performed, depending on the gaming state. By setting the production contents, the production display device 27 always performs an appropriate production.

C-3. Specific content production process:
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing (specific per-effects content setting processing) for setting effect content according to the game state in the effect control process. This process is a process that is performed by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 when the determination result of the special symbol is either “specific probability change hit” or “specific time short hit”. Hereinafter, it demonstrates according to a flowchart.

  When the specific hit effect content setting process is started, first, a process of reading the stored game state is performed (S1102). The gaming state is stored at a predetermined address in the RAM by the CPU 221 of the sub-control board 220 in the above-described effect control process, and by reading the gaming state, whether or not the probability changing function is activated, and the speed reduction function is It is possible to determine whether it is operating.

  Next, it is determined based on the read gaming state whether or not the current gaming state is being changed (S1104). If the gaming state is not in the process of change (S1104: no), it is determined whether or not the time is short (S1112). As a result, when it is determined that the time is not short (S1112: no), when the gaming state is neither probable nor time-saving (in the normal gaming state), "specific probability per hit" or "specific short-time per hit" occurs. In this case, after setting the effect content corresponding to the win (S1116), the specific hit effect content setting process of FIG. 18 is terminated and the process returns to the effect control process shown in FIG. . As described above, when the “specific probability change hit” or “specific time short hit” occurs in the normal gaming state, the player feels as if the probability change state or the short time state has suddenly started. In accordance with this, in the effect control process, an effect when the game state changes advantageously (effect corresponding to the winning) is performed, and as a result, it is possible to greatly enhance the interest of the player. The content of the effect (the content of the effect corresponding to the winning) when the winning game state changes advantageously will be described later with reference to another drawing.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the gaming state is in a short time (S1112: yes), it is determined whether or not the special symbol win / fail determination result is “specific time short hit” (S1114). As shown in FIG. 17, since the variation pattern designation command and the special symbol stop information designation command are output from the main control board 200 prior to the specific hit effect content setting process, whether or not it is determined based on the command. It can be easily determined whether or not the result is "short for a specific time". If it is not “short for specific time” (S1114: no), it is considered that the determination result is “specific probability change”. In this case, after setting the production content corresponding to the win (S1116). ), The specific hit effect content setting process in FIG. 18 is terminated, and the process returns to the effect control process shown in FIG. As described above, when a “specific probability change hit” occurs during the time reduction, the player feels as if the time reduction state has suddenly switched to the probability change state. In accordance with this, in the effect control process, an effect (effect content corresponding to the hit) when the game state changes advantageously is performed.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the determination result of the special symbol is “short for a specific time” (S1114: yes), it can be determined that “short for a specific time” has occurred during the short time. As described above, even if the “specific time saving hit” occurs during the time reduction, the gaming state does not change advantageously for the player as far as it appears. However, as described above, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, a finite period is set for the time reduction (in this embodiment, until the special symbol fluctuates 100 times). When the “winning” occurs, the time limit is shortened, and in fact, the player changes slightly to an advantageous state. Therefore, in such a case, after setting the effect content to the effect content corresponding to the small hit (S1118), the specific hit effect content setting process of FIG. 18 is ended, and the process returns to the effect control process of FIG. If it carries out like this, in an effect control process, an appropriate effect can be performed with respect to the progress of a game. Alternatively, in such a case (in the case where a “short time for a specific time” occurs during the time reduction), the gaming state does not change favorably for the player at first glance. Therefore, for the sake of simplicity, it is also possible to set production contents (production contents 1) corresponding to a later-described deviation. Even if it does in this way, since suitable production according to the progress situation of a game can be performed, it does not give a misunderstanding to a player or cool a player's interest.

  If it is determined in S1104 that the gaming state is in the probability change (S1104: yes), it is determined whether or not the special symbol win / fail determination result is “specific probability change hit” (S1106). And when it is judged that it is “specific probability variation hit” (S1106: yes), since “specific probability variation hit” occurred during probability variation, it is possible to obtain a new merit for the player. Absent. Therefore, in such a case, after setting the effect content to the effect content (effect content 1 described later) corresponding to “out” (S1110), the specific hit effect content setting process in FIG. 18 is terminated. In this way, in the effect control process, an effect corresponding to the losing is performed, and it is possible to perform an effect without a sense of incongruity with the progress of the game.

  On the other hand, in view of the fact that the specific hit effect content setting process in FIG. 18 is started when either “specific probability change hit” or “specific time short hit” occurs, in the determination of S1106, “specific probability change hit” If it is determined that there is not, it can be determined that a “short time for a specific time” has occurred during the probability change. In such a case, as described above, the gaming state changes from the probabilistic state to the short-time state, so that it is not advantageous to the player, but on the contrary, it changes in a disadvantageous direction. Therefore, processing for setting the production content to the production content 2 corresponding to the deviation, which is different from the production content 1 described above, is performed (S1108). Then, after finishing the specific hit effect content setting process of FIG. 18, the process returns to the control effect process of FIG. In this way, in response to the gaming state switching from the probabilistic state to the short-time state, the effect display device 27 will perform an appropriate effect, and the player's interest in the game can be further attracted. It becomes.

  FIG. 19 is an explanatory view exemplifying various types of effects set in the specific hit effect content setting process described above. As described above with reference to FIG. 18, in the specific hit effect content setting process, depending on the game state when “specific probability change hit” or “specific short-time hit” occurs, One of the following effects is set: “corresponding effect content 1”, “disappearing effect content 2”, and “small hit corresponding effect content”. When these effects are started, first, an image imitating the reel of the slot machine is displayed on the screen of the effect display device 27. FIG. 19A illustrates a state where a reel image of the slot machine is displayed. Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 19B, after the three reels of the slot machine start to rotate all at once, the symbols on the left reel are stopped and displayed.

  FIG. 19C conceptually shows that the symbol on the left reel is stopped. At this stage, the symbols on the middle reel and the right reel are still rotated. As shown in the drawing, the first reel is stopped at a symbol representing “7”. This symbol is a symbol for winning a so-called bonus combination in the slot machine, and the player's expectation is greatly enhanced by the first reel being stopped and displayed with the symbol “7”. It should be noted that the symbol to be first displayed in a stopped manner is not limited to “7” as long as it is a symbol for winning a bonus combination, and any symbol may be used.

  Next, symbols are stopped and displayed in the order of the middle reel and the right reel. The symbols that are stopped and displayed at this time are different depending on the effect contents set in the specific hit effect content setting process of FIG. First, when “actual content corresponding to winning” is set, the symbol of the middle reel is stopped and displayed with the symbol “7”, and the winning state of the bonus combination is reached (see the left side of FIG. 19D). (See diagram). If such an effect is performed, the player will naturally pay attention to the effect on the screen in anticipation of winning the bonus combination. After that, the design of the right reel is stopped and displayed with the design of “7”, and the effect of winning the bonus combination is performed (see the diagram on the left end of FIG. 19E).

  As described above with reference to FIG. 18, in the specific hit production content setting process, “winning production content” is set when there is neither a certain change nor a short time (normal game state) or This is the case where a “specific short hit” occurs or a “specific probability change hit” occurs during a short time. In this case, the game state changes in a direction advantageous to the player, such as suddenly switching from the normal game state to the probable change state or the short time state, or switching from the short time state to the sudden change state. Therefore, after the player's attention is drawn on the screen of the effect display device 27 and the effect that the bonus combination is won is performed, the gaming state is changed in a direction advantageous to the player. As a result, it becomes possible to greatly enhance the interest of the player.

  On the other hand, when the “departure-related production content 1” is set, the middle reel is stopped at the symbol “7” to reach a reach state (see the left diagram in FIG. 19D), then the right The reel performs an effect of stopping and displaying with symbols other than “7” (see the second diagram from the left in FIG. 19E).

  As described above, “offset-response production content 1” is set when “specific probability change hit” occurs during probability change. In this case, for the player, what changes in the game state Does not occur. Therefore, the last reel is stopped and displayed with a symbol other than “7”, and an effect that the bonus combination is not won is performed. In this way, if the bonus combination is not won, even if the game is continued without any change in the game state, the player will not feel uncomfortable.

  On the other hand, when the production content is set to “production content 2 corresponding to detachment”, the symbol of the middle reel is stopped and displayed with a design that does not reach any of the symbols, in addition to “7” ( In the middle of FIG. 19D), the symbol on the right reel is stopped and displayed at an arbitrary symbol so as to be in a so-called completely disengaged state (see the second diagram from the right in FIG. 19E).

  As described above with reference to FIG. 18, “departure-related effect content 2” is set when “specific short-term hit” occurs during probability change. In this case, the game state is changed from the probability change state. Suddenly, the situation changes in a disadvantageous direction to the player. Therefore, as described above, if the design of each reel does not reach the reach state and the effect of stopping in the state of complete detachment is performed, even if the game state changes in a disadvantageous direction, the player is concerned regarding that. Can avoid feeling uncomfortable.

  Further, when the production content is set to “production content corresponding to small hits”, the following production is performed. First, the symbol of the middle reel does not reach the reach of “7” (that is, the reach of the bonus combination), but the small combination is stopped at a symbol that can be won (see the diagram on the right side of FIG. 19D). As described above, since the reel that stops first is stopped at a symbol (here, the symbol “7”) that the bonus combination can win, the player also stops at the symbol “7” for the middle reel. I'm expecting that, and I will be disappointed when symbols other than "7" stop. However, since the small role can win, he will pay attention to the movement of the right reel without losing interest. And in such a state, the effect which stops the symbol of a right reel with the symbol which a small role wins is performed (refer the figure of the right end of FIG.19 (e)).

  As described above with reference to FIG. 18, “actual content corresponding to small hits” is set when “specific short-term hits” occur during a short time. Although it is not known that it has changed favorably, in practice, the time limit for shortening the time has been extended, and it has changed slightly but advantageously. Therefore, if the effect that the small role is won is performed, it becomes possible for the player to easily recognize such a change in the gaming state.

  In the above description, it is assumed that when the “short time per specific time” occurs during the time reduction, the effect of winning the small role is performed. However, in this case, since it seems that the gaming state has not changed at first glance, the winning combination of the bonus combination is in the reach state, as in the case where the “specific probability change hit” occurs during the probability change. It is good also as performing the production | generation which becomes unsatisfied through (Production content 1 corresponding to losing). Even in this case, the game can be continued without causing the player to feel uncomfortable.

  In addition, the above-described production of “production content 1 corresponding to losing” is not limited to the occurrence of “specific probability change” or “specific short-time hit”, but is also performed when the determination result of the special symbol is “out”. It is. That is, as one of the variation pattern designating commands output from the main control board 200 to the sub-control board 220 when the result of determining whether the special symbol is appropriate or not, it corresponds to the above-described “departure-related effect content 1”. Fluctuation pattern specification command is set. When the sub-control board 220 receives this variation pattern designation command, the above-described effect (the effect that the winning of the bonus combination is not achieved through the reach state) is performed. As a result, even if the determination result of the special symbol is simply “out”, the player expects that the gaming state will be advantageously changed when the above-described effect is started. This can be further enhanced.

  On the other hand, the above-mentioned production of “production content 2 corresponding to losing” is a special production that is performed only when a “short time for a specific time” occurs during probability change. That is, the production of “departure production content 2” constitutes one aspect of the “predetermined special production” of the present invention. Of course, the predetermined special effect does not have to be similar to the other effects as described above. For example, an ally character and an enemy character fight and an ally character loses. It may be a production that is completely different from other productions, such as a simple production.

  While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited thereto, and is not limited to the wording of each claim unless it departs from the scope described in each claim. Improvements based on the knowledge that a person skilled in the art normally has can also be added as appropriate to the extent that those skilled in the art can easily replace them.

1 ... Pachinko machine, 17 ... Start port,
27 ... production display device, 28 ... symbol display device, 31d ...
200... Main control board (design variation starting means, design variation stopping means, special winning opening opening means, game state setting means), 220... Sub control board (display effect executing means)

Claims (3)

A large winning opening that can be switched between a closed state and an open state;
A symbol display device capable of displaying and stopping special symbols;
A determination unit for determining whether or not the special symbol is correct;
A symbol variation starting means for starting the variation display of the special symbol in response to the determination result;
A symbol variation stopping means for stopping and displaying the special symbol during variation display on the symbol display device when a predetermined variation time has elapsed;
As a result of the success / failure determination, when a winning symbol is obtained as a winning symbol corresponding to the winning symbol and the probability variation winning symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device, an operation of opening the special winning opening in a predetermined manner is performed. When a winning symbol is obtained as a result of the determination of success or failure and a symbol corresponding to the winning symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device, the special winning opening is shorter than the predetermined mode. A special prize opening opening means for performing an operation of opening only for a period,
As the gaming state, at least a non-probability change state in which the probability that the result of the determination of success or failure is a normal probability, a probability change state in which the probability is high and the variation time of the special symbol is shortened, It is possible to set the probability that the probability is the normal probability and the short time state in which the variation time of the special symbol is shortened, and the probability variation state is displayed by stopping the probability variation symbol on the symbol display device. Game state setting means for setting and setting the time-short state by stopping and displaying the specific time-short symbol on the symbol display device;
Display effect execution means for executing a predetermined display effect in an effect display device provided separately from the symbol display device;
A gaming machine equipped with
The display effect executing means includes
When the gaming state is set to the non-probability changing state or the probability changing state, a losing is obtained as a result of the success / failure determination, and a losing symbol corresponding to this losing is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device Performs a display effect in which multiple design symbols are not aligned with the same design,
When the gaming state is set to the non-probability changing state or the probability changing state, and the probability variation winning symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device, a display in which a plurality of effect symbols are arranged in the same symbol Directing,
When the gaming state is set to the probability variation state, when the symbol at the specific time short stop is displayed on the symbol display device, a display effect in which a plurality of effects symbols are not aligned with the same symbol, A gaming machine characterized by performing a display effect indicating a change from the probability variation state to the time-short state. The big winning opening means is obtained as a result of the success / failure determination, and when the specific probability variation winning symbol corresponding to the winning is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device, the big winning opening is displayed. Performing an opening operation for a period shorter than the predetermined mode;
The gaming state setting means sets the probability variation state by the specific probability variation symbol being stopped and displayed on the symbol display device,
When the game state is set to the non-probability change state, the display effect execution means is configured such that when the specific probability change symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device, a plurality of effect symbols are the same. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a display effect that does not match in a design and a display effect that indicates a change from the non-probability change state to the probability change state are performed. When the game state is set to the non-probability change state, the display effect execution means has a plurality of effect symbols that are the same when the symbol time per symbol is stopped and displayed on the symbol display device. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein a display effect that does not match in a design and a display effect that indicates a change from the uncertain change state to the time-short state are performed.

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