JP2012161568A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a technique for improving the operating efficiency of a game machine by imparting motivation to desire to increase a storage number of a lottery element to a player.SOLUTION: In the game machine, when a total storage number of a first special symbol and a second special symbol reaches a prescribed maximum value, a normal mode is transferred to a special mode, and a special mode performance is executed. When a result of an internal lottery corresponds to winning during the execution of the special mode performance, a premium big winning performance set with performance contents different from a normal big winning performance is executed instead of a normal big winning performance set with normal performance contents. Accordingly, the game machine can impart the motivation to desire to increase the storage number so as to view the premium big winning performance to the player to improve the operating efficiency of the game machine.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that, when a lottery is performed in response to an occurrence of an event during a game, displays a symbol in a manner that indicates the result of the lottery after displaying a variation of the symbol.

  Conventionally, as this type of gaming machine, when the number of stored lottery elements (the number of reserved balls) reaches the upper limit, the number of invalid balls of the game balls won at the starting port is counted, and the appearance probability of the number of invalid balls There is known a technique for setting a reach pattern to appear from among “super reach”, “special reach”, and “premium reach” (for example, Patent Document 1).

In this prior art, the appearance probability of “premium reach”, which has a very low appearance probability in a normal state, is increased as the number of invalid balls increases.
For this reason, according to the technique of Patent Document 1, even when the game ball wins the start opening in a state where the number of stored lottery elements has reached the upper limit, the loss feeling given to the player is reduced. It is thought that you can.

JP 2003-334319 A

  In general, the maximum number of lottery elements stored during a game is determined to be 4 (8 if there are two special symbols). For winnings after the maximum value, the normal winning process ( For example, only a three-ball payout process) is performed.

  For this reason, in the technique of Patent Document 1, as the number of invalid balls increases, the appearance probability of “premium reach” is increased and the feeling of loss given to the player is reduced. When the value reaches the upper limit, the game ball is stopped.

  In addition, even if the number of stored lottery elements has not reached the upper limit, if a super reach effect (reach effect with a high degree of reliability with a big hit) has occurred, a player can play a game ball. The launch may be stopped and the game may be stopped. In this regard, as in the technique of Patent Document 1, if a “premium reach” occurs, the big hit is fixed at that point, and after passing the premium reach, it is guaranteed that the game will shift to the big hit game. The player is expected to stop launching the game ball even more.

  Therefore, not only premium reach production but also reach production with high expectation to some extent, even if the memory number of lottery elements has not reached the upper limit, the player is willing to increase the memory of lottery elements May decrease, and the operating efficiency (out) of the gaming machine may decrease.

  Therefore, the present invention provides a motivation to increase the number of lottery elements stored for a player even when a highly anticipated reach effect is executed, and improves the operating efficiency of the gaming machine. It is an object of the present invention to provide a technology that can be applied.

The present invention employs the following means for solving the above problems. The wording in parentheses is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this.
Solution 1: In the gaming machine of the present invention, when the first event or the second event occurs during the game (the occurrence of a prize at the left starting prize opening, the occurrence of a prize at the right starting prize opening), the first lottery respectively Using the lottery element acquisition means for acquiring the element or the second lottery element and either the first lottery element or the second lottery element, the player's profit (for example, the profit that the variable winning device is activated) When the internal lottery (special symbol lottery) related to is performed, the first symbol or the second symbol corresponding to the first lottery element or the second lottery factor (special symbol; The first symbol or the second symbol is stopped and displayed in a manner representing the result of the internal lottery (for example, a manner associated with winning in advance). Design chart And a start condition (after the elapse of the stop display time of the first symbol or the second symbol, or the first condition that enables the variable display of either the first symbol or the second symbol to be started by the symbol display means. The first lottery element or the second lottery element acquired by the lottery element acquisition means when the first event or the second event occurs before the symbol and the second symbol are not stored) Lottery element storage means for storing the symbols in the order in which they are acquired up to a predetermined upper limit number, and after the first symbol or the second symbol is displayed by the symbol display means, the lottery element storage means at the time of stop display. When both the first lottery element and the second lottery element are stored, the internal lottery is executed using the first lottery element or the second lottery element in the order in which the first lottery element is acquired. A lottery executing means for executing the internal lottery using the first lottery element or the second lottery element stored when only one of the element or the second lottery element is stored; When the first symbol or the second symbol is stopped and displayed in a specific winning manner by the display means, a special game execution that executes a special game (15 round jackpot game, etc.) to which a special condition different from normal is applied Means, special game effect execution means for executing a special game effect corresponding to the special game at the special game executed by the special game execution means (effect during 15 round big hit game), and at least within the variation time After executing the variable display effect (scroll display of the effect symbol) corresponding to the variable display of the first symbol or the second symbol by the symbol display means, the symbol display A symbol effect execution means for executing a stop display effect (stop display of the effect symbol) corresponding to the stop display of the first symbol or the second symbol by the means, the first lottery element by the lottery element storage means, and the When the total stored number of second lottery elements reaches a predetermined maximum value, special mode transition means for shifting from the normal mode to the special mode, and when the special mode transition means shifts to the special mode, the symbol effect Upon execution of the variable display effect by the execution means, the special mode effect execution means for executing the special mode effect corresponding to the special mode, and the result of the internal lottery during execution of the special mode effect by the special mode effect execution means. When winning, the special game effect executed by the special game effect execution means is set to the normal special content set as the normal game content. Instead of game effects, said normal special game effects is the gaming machine, characterized in that it comprises a special bonus game demonstration execution means for executing a special special game effects set to different effect contents.

  The gaming machine of the present invention performs an internal lottery using lottery elements (first lottery element or second lottery element) corresponding to each of a plurality of symbols (at least the first symbol and the second symbol). However, even if there are multiple symbols, the internal lottery is not performed in parallel. In other words, when the gaming machine of the present invention performs one internal lottery, it displays a variation of the corresponding symbol, stops and displays the symbol in a manner representing the result of the internal lottery, and then performs the next internal lottery. Run.

  In order to execute the internal lottery, an event (first event or second event) that becomes a lottery trigger must be generated as a precondition. For this reason, the player plays a game with the initial goal being to generate an event that will be the lottery opportunity. The first event and the second event, which are the lottery opportunities, occur randomly (or accidentally or randomly). When the first event or the second event occurs randomly as described above, the first lottery element or the second lottery element is acquired each time. The first lottery element and the second lottery element correspond to the first symbol and the second symbol, respectively.

  On the other hand, it takes a certain amount of time (variation time and stop display time) from when the first symbol or second symbol is displayed to the stop display, and once the symbol display is started. Then, the next lottery is not performed until the stop display is completed. For this reason, if an event that becomes a lottery trigger occurs during the symbol variation display (or before the stop display is completed), the lottery elements acquired thereby are stored in the order of acquisition.

  Then, when the symbol start condition (for example, the symbol is not changing and the previous change has been confirmed, the symbol stop display has been confirmed) is satisfied. An internal lottery is performed using the elements in the order in which the elements are acquired, and the display of the first symbol or the second symbol is started again. However, a predetermined upper limit (for example, four per symbol) is provided for the number of memories, and the number of memories does not increase beyond this upper limit.

  In the gaming machine of the present invention, when the first symbol or the second symbol is stopped and displayed, (1) if both the first lottery element and the second lottery element are stored, the first lottery element or the second lottery element is displayed. An internal lottery is executed using the acquired order. (2) If only one of the lottery elements is stored, the lottery element is executed using the stored lottery element. For this reason, as long as the number of memorized elements of the first lottery element or the second lottery element remains, the first symbol or the second symbol is displayed in the order in which the lottery elements are acquired.

  In addition, a certain amount of time (fluctuation time) is required for the display of changes in symbols every time. If the player plays a game with the goal of generating a lottery opportunity during that time, lottery elements are stored in the order of acquisition. Therefore, the internal lottery will be performed without interruption. Thereby, continuity is given to each internal lottery, and the game can be advanced with a good tempo.

  In this way, when the game is progressed at a good tempo, and the result of the internal lottery corresponds to winning, a special game (for example, 15 round big hit game) is executed, and in this special game, a special game effect (each (Production on the LCD screen during the round) is executed. Special games are basically games such as 15 round jackpot games, but are 15 round jackpots, but short-term jackpots such as jackpots that can provide the same profits as 5 round jackpots or 2 round jackpots. It is a concept that includes jackpot games and the like.

  Here, the gaming machine of the present solution means that when the total stored number of the first lottery element and the second lottery element reaches a predetermined maximum value, the normal mode is changed to the special mode, and the special mode is changed. Special mode effect is executed. This special mode is only a production mode and does not change the winning probability of the internal lottery. Therefore, even if the normal mode is changed to the special mode, the internal state is not changed, and the special mode is changed while the internal state is maintained. For example, if the winning probability of the internal lottery is low, the mode is shifted to the special mode with the low probability state. If the winning probability of the internal lottery is high, the mode is shifted to the special mode with the high probability state. . In addition, the normal mode is a mode other than the special mode. For example, the winning probability of the internal lottery is high as well as the mode in which the winning probability of the internal lottery is low and the time is not reduced (the normal mode of the embodiment). A mode that is a probability and is in a non-time shortened state (a yukata mode of the embodiment) and the like are also included.

  If the result of the internal lottery corresponds to winning during execution of the special mode effect, an effect different from the normal special game effect is used instead of the normal special game effect (normal jackpot effect) set in the normal effect content. A special special game effect (premium jackpot effect) set in the content is executed.

  For this reason, if a big hit is made during execution of the special mode effect, the player can see the special special game effect. Therefore, the player can be motivated to increase the number of stored lottery elements in order to see special special game effects, and improve the operating efficiency of the gaming machine (extend out). it can.

  In addition, the special mode of the present invention is a mode that is shifted when the total stored number of the first lottery element and the second lottery element reaches a predetermined maximum value, so that the player can play the game ball with his / her own intention. It is possible to shift to the special mode relatively easily if the launching is continued. For this reason, it is possible to give the player a sense of satisfaction (a sense of accomplishment of his own ability) that he “saw a special special game effect by himself”.

  Furthermore, since the special mode of the present invention is a mode that is shifted when the total number of memories reaches a predetermined maximum value, it is a mode that can be shifted even during the fluctuation of the first symbol or the second symbol. . Therefore, not only the premium reach effect but also the reach effect with a certain degree of expectation occurs, there is an effect that the launch of the game ball is not stopped.

Furthermore, the special mode of the present invention is not a pre-decision effect (so-called pre-read effect) for determining the result of the internal lottery with respect to the lottery element in advance, or a notice effect indicating the reliability for the big hit of the change. There will be no unfortunate production at the moment when is executed.
For example, regarding the pre-reading effect, in the case of a pre-reading effect with low jackpot reliability, when the pre-reading effect is executed, a feeling of regret that all memories will be unwinned. On the other hand, in the case of a prefetching effect with a high jackpot reliability, the player may stop launching a game ball when the prefetching notice is generated.

  On the other hand, the special mode of the present invention is not a mode that enters on condition that there is a lottery element with a high expectation degree of winning in the memory, but the total memory number is simply set to a predetermined maximum value. It is a mode that is shifted when triggered, and the special mode itself is a flat mode that is neither high nor low in expectation. For this reason, there is no unfortunate performance at the moment when the special mode effect is executed, and a new game can be exhibited by adopting such a special mode effect.

  Solution 2: The gaming machine according to the present invention further includes a normal mode shift means for shifting from the special mode transferred by the special mode shift means to the normal mode when a specific condition is satisfied. It is a gaming machine characterized by comprising.

  According to Solution 2, since the special mode is shifted to the normal mode when a specific condition is satisfied, the special mode does not continue forever, and the condition for shifting to the normal mode is appropriately introduced. , The diversity of games can be improved. In addition, the player can be devised not to shift to the normal mode, or can be motivated to move to the special mode again even after shifting to the normal mode. Operation efficiency can be improved.

  Solution 3: The gaming machine of the present invention is the first design executed by the symbol display means when the normal mode transition means is shifted to the special mode by the special mode transition means in the resolution means 2. Alternatively, the number of changes corresponding to the number of times of change display and stop display of the second symbol is counted, and when the counter value reaches a predetermined value, it is determined that the specific condition is satisfied. It is a gaming machine to play.

  According to the solution 3, the number of fluctuations since the transition to the special mode is counted, and when the counter value reaches a predetermined value, it is determined that a specific condition is satisfied and the transition to the normal mode is made. Therefore, an easy-to-understand mode transition can be realized by setting a clear standard of the number of fluctuations.

  Solving means 4: The gaming machine of the present invention is characterized in that, in the solving means 3, during the execution of the special mode effect by the special mode effect executing means, the first lottery element and the second lottery element by the lottery element storage means. When the total stored number reaches a predetermined maximum value, the special mode transition means executes processing for maintaining the special mode, and the normal mode transition means performs the first symbol executed by the symbol display means. Alternatively, the gaming machine is characterized in that the counter value of the number of times of change corresponding to the number of times of change display and stop display of the second symbol is reset.

In the solution 4, when the condition for shifting to the special mode is satisfied again during execution of the special mode effect, a process for maintaining the special mode is executed, and the counter value of the number of fluctuations counted during the special mode is It will be reset once.
For this reason, according to the solving means 4, even if the counter value of the number of fluctuations counted during the special mode is gradually counted and approaches the value for ending the special mode, the total stored number is again When the predetermined maximum value is reached, the special mode continues and the counter value of the number of fluctuations is reset. As a result, the player can be given a willingness to reach the predetermined maximum value again, and the operating efficiency of the gaming machine can be improved.

  Solution 5: The gaming machine according to the present invention, in Solution 2, the variation display of the first symbol or the second symbol by the symbol display unit is any one of the variation patterns defined in advance. When the variation pattern determining means for selectively determining and the variation pattern determined by the variation pattern determining means satisfy a predetermined specific reach occurrence condition, the specific reach effect is performed during the execution of the variable display effect by the symbol effect executing means. Specific reach production execution means for executing the normal reach, wherein the normal mode transition means is a case where the special mode transition means has shifted to the special mode, and the specific reach production execution means When the game machine is executed, it is determined that the specific condition is satisfied.

  According to the solution 5, when the specific reach effect is executed during the special mode, it is determined that the specific condition is satisfied and the mode is shifted to the normal mode. Therefore, the special reach effect is executed until the specific reach effect is executed. The mode will continue. For this reason, the player can enjoy the special mode with peace of mind regardless of the number of fluctuations until the specific reach effect is executed.

  Solution 6: The gaming machine according to the present invention, in the solution 2, the variation display of the first symbol or the second symbol by the symbol display unit is any one of the variation patterns defined in advance. When the variation pattern determining means for selectively determining and the variation pattern determined by the variation pattern determining means satisfy a predetermined reach occurrence condition, the reach effect is executed during the execution of the variation display effect by the symbol effect executing means. And a reach production execution means, wherein the normal mode transition means is a case where the special mode transition means has shifted to the special mode, and the reach production execution means executes the reach production, and A gaming machine characterized in that, when a predetermined mode transition lottery is won, it is determined that the specific condition is satisfied.

  According to the solution 6, when the reach effect is executed during the special mode and the predetermined mode transition lottery is won, it is determined that the specific condition is satisfied and the mode is shifted to the normal mode. The special mode will continue until the reach effect is executed. However, even if the normal reach production is executed, if the selected mode transition lottery is not won, the normal mode will not be entered, so various expectations can be given to the player as to how long the special mode will continue. Gameability can be realized.

  Solution 7: The gaming machine of the present invention is the solution 5 or 6, wherein the normal mode shift means is the first symbol or the first symbol by the symbol display means when the special mode shift means has shifted to the special mode. Regarding the variation display of the second symbol, the gaming machine is characterized in that even if the specific condition is satisfied, it is not determined that the specific condition is satisfied.

In the solving means 7, regarding the change at the time of shifting to the special mode, even if the condition for returning to the normal mode is satisfied, the change to the normal mode is not performed. Even during a normal game, the total memory number may reach the predetermined maximum value, but the total memory number is the predetermined maximum value when a reach effect with a certain long variation time is being executed. It is easy to reach.
In this case, even if the special mode is entered during the execution of the reach effect, if the predetermined reach occurs and a specific condition is satisfied, the normal mode is immediately returned after the reach effect is completed. It will be.
Therefore, this solution improves the chance to play in the special mode by continuing the special mode even after the reach production has ended, as not to shift to the normal mode with respect to the fluctuation when shifting to the special mode. I am letting.

  Solution 8: The gaming machine according to the present invention provides the first storage display corresponding to the increase or decrease in the number of the first lottery elements stored by the lottery element storage means in any one of the solution means 1 to 7, and the lottery The memory number display effect is executed in such a manner that the second memory display corresponding to the increase or decrease of the memory number of the second lottery element by the element storage means is arranged and displayed in the order in which the first lottery element or the second lottery element is acquired. A memory number display effect executing means, a first light effect executing means which is installed on the game board and executes an effect by light, and a second light effect execution which is installed in the frame unit of the game board and executes an effect by light Addition by means of additional images for means, sound effect executing means for executing effects by sound, image effect executing means for executing effects by image, and effects by images executed by said image effect executing means Determination means for determining whether or not the execution can be executed, the special mode effect execution means, while the first symbol or the second symbol is variably displayed by the symbol display means, In the case where the special mode effect is executed by the special mode transition unit in accordance with the transition from the normal mode to the special mode, and the determination unit determines that the additional effect cannot be performed, The special mode effect is executed according to the effects produced by the memory number display effect executing means, the second light effect executing means, and the sound effect executing means, and the first symbol or the second symbol changes by the next symbol display means. A gaming machine, wherein the special mode effect is executed by an effect by the first light effect executing means and the image effect executing means at the time of display. .

  According to the solving means 8, when the special mode effect is executed in accordance with the transition to the special mode during the change of the first symbol or the second symbol, the additional effect is not executable (for example, the full screen effect). (1) First, as a first step, a special mode effect is executed by an effect produced by the memory number display effect executing means, the second light effect executing means, and the sound effect executing means. As the two stages, the special mode effect is executed by the effects of the first light effect executing means and the image effect executing means at the time of the next variation display of the first symbol or the second symbol.

  For example, when full-screen presentation is performed on a liquid crystal screen, the special mode presentation is executed by the “memory marker of the liquid crystal display”, “glass frame lamp, etc.”, “speaker” in the fluctuation that enters the special mode. The special mode effect by “board lamp”, “liquid crystal screen effect, etc.” is executed at the next fluctuation after the fluctuation entered. For this reason, when a full-screen effect is performed on the LCD screen, the special mode effect can be executed without blocking the full-screen effect. The remaining special mode effects can be executed to complement the special mode effects.

  Solution 9: The gaming machine according to the present invention provides a plurality of winning types including at least a specific winning type for the result of winning in the internal lottery performed by the lottery executing unit in any of the solving means 1 to 8. If a winning result is obtained by the internal lottery by the winning type prescribing means defined in advance and the lottery executing means, it is determined which of the plurality of winning types defined by the winning type prescribing means is combined. The special special game effect executing means is determined that the result of the internal lottery corresponds to winning and the winning type determining means determines that it corresponds to the specific winning type. In this case, the gaming machine is characterized by executing the special special game effect.

  According to the solving means 9, when it is determined that the result of the internal lottery corresponds to the winning and the winning type corresponds to the specific winning type, the special special game effect is executed, so the special mode effect is being executed. Even if the player wins, the special special game effect is not executed for all the wins, and the special special game effect can be executed only in the case of a specific winning type. For this reason, special special game effects can be flexibly executed according to the contents of special special game effects and game specifications prepared in advance.

  Solution 10: In the gaming machine according to the present invention, in any one of Solution 1 to 9, the special special game effect execution means displays the ending of a story developed during the game as the special special game effect. At least one of an effect, an effect of displaying a character that is not displayed in the normal special game effect, an effect of selecting a song that cannot be selected in the normal special game effect, and an effect of displaying a code that allows the player to acquire a special item The game machine is characterized by executing an effect including one effect.

  According to the solving means 10, as a special special game effect, (1) an effect of displaying the ending of a story developed during the game, (2) an effect of displaying a character that is not displayed in the normal special game effect, (3) normal An effect that allows selection of a music that cannot be selected in the special game effect, and (4) an effect that displays a code that allows the player to acquire a special item, etc., are executed.

Normally, such special effects are executed only when special games are continuously occurring or when special conditions (winning in a lottery with a very low winning probability) are met. Is.
On the other hand, in this solution, by providing a special route called winning during special mode production, the opportunity to see such special production is increased, the range of games is expanded, and the player's satisfaction The degree can be improved.

  Solution 11: The gaming machine of the present invention alternates between the first event and the second event regardless of the game state (normal state, time reduction state, high probability state) in any one of solution means 1 to 10. The game machine further comprises event generating means that can be generated.

  According to the solution 11, since it is possible to provide a gaming machine that can alternately generate the first event and the second event regardless of the gaming state, the first lottery element and the second event can be performed regardless of the gaming state. The total stored number of the two lottery elements is likely to reach a predetermined maximum value, and an opportunity to shift to the special mode can be generated effectively and frequently.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention, the special mode effect is executed when the total stored number of lottery elements reaches the predetermined maximum value and the mode is shifted to the special mode, and the special mode effect is executed if the big hit is made during the execution of the special mode effect. Since the special game effect is executed, the player can be motivated to increase the number of stored lottery elements in order to see the special special game effect, thereby improving the operating efficiency of the game machine. be able to.

It is a front view of a pachinko machine. It is a rear view of a pachinko machine. It is a front view which expands and shows a part of game board. It is a figure explaining the detail of the structure of a distribution apparatus. It is a figure explaining the principle of operation of a distribution device (1/2). It is a figure explaining the operation | movement principle of a distribution apparatus (2/2). It is a block diagram which shows the various electronic devices with which the pachinko machine was equipped. It is a flowchart (1/2) which shows the example of a procedure of a reset start process. It is a flowchart (2/2) which shows the example of a procedure of a reset start process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a power-off occurrence check process concretely. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an interruption management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a switch input event process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a 1st special symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a 2nd special symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the production | generation determination process at the time of acquisition. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol change pre-processing. It is a figure which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern selection table at the time of loss. It is a figure which shows the structure row | line | column of the 1st special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows the structure column of the 2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern selection table at the time of 15 round big hit winning. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a special symbol memory | storage area shift process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol stop display process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a display output management process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a variable winning apparatus management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big winning opening opening pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big prize opening / closing operation | movement process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big winning opening closing process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an end process. It is a continuation figure showing an example of a production picture corresponding to change display and stop display of a special symbol. It is a continuation figure which shows the example of production performed at the time of 2 round big hit winning, and the example of mode change production (1/2). It is a continuation figure which shows the example of the production performed at the time of 2 round big hit winning, and the example of mode change production (2/2). It is a continuation figure showing the flow of reach production performed at the time of big hit (winning) of “15 round probability variation symbol”. It is a continuation figure which shows partially an example of a big role production performed during a 15 round big hit game (1/2). It is a continuation figure which partially shows the example of the big role production performed during 15 round big hit game (2/2). FIG. 22 is a continuous diagram partially showing an example of a big-game effect executed during a 15-round big-hit game when the big-hit game continues (1/2). FIG. 22 is a continuous diagram partially showing an example of a big-game effect executed during a 15-round big-hit game when the big-hit game continues (2/2). It is a continuation figure shown about the example of production of special mode production. FIG. 25 is a continuous diagram partially showing an example of a big-bill effect executed during a 15-round big hit game in a special mode when a lottery result is a big hit during execution of a special mode effect (1/2). FIG. 25 is a continuous diagram partially showing an example of a big-bodied effect executed during a 15-round big hit game in a special mode when a lottery result is a big hit during execution of a special mode effect (2/2). It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of effect control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a special mode management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an operation | movement memory production | presentation management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of effect design management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an effect design change pre-process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of special mode effect selection processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the process at the time of variable winning apparatus operation | movement. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a lamp drive process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an acoustic drive process.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter abbreviated as “pachinko machine”) 1. FIG. 2 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 uses a game ball as a game medium, and a player borrows a game ball from a game hall operator to play a game with the pachinko machine 1. In the game of the pachinko machine 1, each game ball is a medium having a game value, and a privilege (profit) that the player enjoys as a result of the game is, for example, a game ball acquired by the player Based on the number of games, it can be converted into a game value. The overall configuration of the gaming machine will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[Overall configuration of gaming machine]
The pachinko machine 1 mainly includes an outer frame assembly 2, a glass frame unit 4, a tray unit 6 and a plastic frame assembly 7 (game machine frame) as its main body. Among these, the outer frame assembly 2 is a structure in which wood is combined in a vertically long rectangular shape, and the outer frame assembly 2 uses fasteners such as screws for island facilities (not shown) in the game hall. Are fixed.

  The other glass frame unit 4, tray unit 6, and plastic frame assembly 7 are attached to the island facility via the outer frame assembly 2, and these operate in an openable manner via a hinge mechanism (not shown). An opening / closing axis of a hinge mechanism (not shown) extends in the vertical direction along the left end as viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1.

  A unified lock unit 9 is provided on the right edge (left edge in FIG. 2) of the plastic frame assembly 7 when viewed from the front in FIG. Correspondingly, the glass frame unit 4 and the right edge (back side) of the outer frame assembly 2 are each provided with a locking tool (not shown). As shown in FIG. 1, in a state where the glass frame unit 4 and the plastic frame assembly 7 are closed with respect to the outer frame assembly 2, the unified lock unit 9 on the back side of the glass frame unit 4 and the plastic frame assembly together with the locking device. 7 cannot be opened.

  A cylinder lock 6 a with a key hole is provided on the right edge of the tray unit 6. For example, when an administrator of a game hall inserts a dedicated key into the keyhole and twists the cylinder lock 6a clockwise, the unified lock unit 9 operates to open the glass frame unit 4 and the tray unit 6 together with the plastic frame assembly 7. It becomes a state. When these are entirely opened from the outer frame assembly 2 to the front side (moved like a door), the back side of the pachinko machine 1 is exposed on the front side.

  On the other hand, when the cylinder lock 6a is twisted counterclockwise, only the glass frame unit 4 is unlocked while the plastic frame assembly 7 remains locked, and the glass frame unit 4 can be opened. When the glass frame unit 4 is opened to the front side, the game board 8 is exposed directly, and in this state, the manager of the game hall can remove obstacles such as ball clogging in the board surface. When the glass frame unit 4 is opened, the lock mechanism (not shown) of the tray unit 6 is exposed. If the lock mechanism is released in this state, the tray unit 6 can be opened to the front side with respect to the plastic frame assembly 7.

  The pachinko machine 1 includes a game board 8 as a game unit. The game board 8 is supported by the plastic frame assembly 7 behind (inside) the glass frame unit 4. The game board 8 can be attached to and detached from the plastic frame assembly 7 with the glass frame unit 4 opened to the front side, for example. The glass frame unit 4 has a vertically oval window 4a formed at the center thereof, and a glass unit (no reference numeral) is attached in the window 4a. The glass unit is a combination of, for example, two transparent plates (glass plates) cut in accordance with the shape of the window 4a. The glass unit is attached to the back side of the glass frame unit 4 in an openable / closable manner via a hinge mechanism (not shown). A game area 8a (board surface) is formed on the front surface of the game board 8, and the game area 8a is visible to the player from the front side through the window 4a. When the glass frame unit 4 is closed, a space in which a game ball can flow down is formed between the inner surface of the glass unit and the game board surface.

  The saucer unit 6 has a shape projecting from the outer frame assembly 2 to the front side as a whole, and an upper dish 6b is formed on the upper surface thereof. The upper plate 6b can store a game ball (rental ball) lent to a player and a game ball (prize ball) acquired by winning a prize. In the tray unit 6, a lower tray 6c is formed at the lower position of the upper tray 6b. The lower tray 6c stores game balls that are further paid out when the upper tray 6b is full. The pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment is a so-called CR machine (model connected to the CR unit), and the game balls borrowed by the player are separately received from the payout unit 172 on the back side separately from the prize balls. 6b or lower pan 6c).

  A lending operation unit 14 is provided on the upper surface of the tray unit 6, and a ball lending button 10 and a return button 12 are arranged on the lending operation unit 14. When a player operates the ball lending button 10 with a valuable medium (for example, a magnetic recording medium, a storage IC built-in medium, etc.) inserted in a CR unit (not shown), the number corresponding to a predetermined frequency unit (for example, 5 degrees). (For example, 125) game balls are lent out. For this reason, a frequency display unit (not shown) is arranged on the upper surface of the lending operation unit 14, and the remaining frequency of the valuable medium put in the CR unit is displayed on this frequency display unit. The player can receive the return of the valuable medium with the remaining frequency by operating the return button 12. Although the CR machine is taken as an example in the present embodiment, the pachinko machine 1 may be a cash machine (a model not connected to the CR unit) different from the CR machine.

  In addition, an upper dish ball removal lever 6d is installed on the front surface of the tray unit 6 in front of the upper dish 6b in the upper position, and a lower dish ball removal button 6e in the center of the lower dish 6c. Is installed. The player can cause the game balls stored in the upper plate 6b to flow down to the lower plate 6c by sliding the upper plate ball removing lever 6d leftward, for example. Further, the player can, for example, push down the lower dish ball removal button 6e to drop the game balls stored in the lower dish 6c downward and discharge them. The discharged game ball is received by, for example, a ball receiving box (not shown).

  A grip unit 16 is installed at the lower right portion of the tray unit 6. The player operates the grip unit 16 to operate the launch control board set 174 and can launch (shoot) a game ball toward the game area 8a (ball launcher). The launched game ball rises along the left side edge of the game board 8, is guided by an outer band (not shown), and is thrown into the game area 8a. A large number of obstacle nails, windmills (without reference numerals in the drawing) and the like are arranged in the game area 8a, and the thrown-in game balls flow down in the game area 8a while being guided and guided by the obstacle nails and the windmill.

[Configuration of the board]
In the game area 8a, a starting gate 20, normal winning ports 22, 24, a right starting winning port 26, a variable starting winning device 28, a variable winning device 30, a distribution device 200, and the like are installed. The game balls thrown into the game area 8a randomly pass through the start gate 20 in the process of flowing down, pass through the sorting device 200, or the normal winning ports 22, 24 and the right starting winning port 26. Then, the variable start winning device 28 is won (entered). The game balls that have passed through the start gate 20 continue to flow down in the game area 8a, but the winning game balls are collected to the back side of the game board 8 through through holes formed in the game board.

  The variable start winning device 28 operates when a predetermined condition is satisfied (when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner), and accordingly, the left start winning port 28a can be awarded. (Ordinary electric appliance). The variable start winning device 28 has, for example, a pair of left and right movable pieces 28b, and these movable pieces 28b reciprocate in the left-right direction along the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. That is, as shown in the drawing, the left and right movable pieces 28b are in the closed position with the tip facing upward, and at this time, winning to the left start winning opening 28a is impossible (there is no gap through which game balls can flow). ing. On the other hand, when the variable start winning device 28 is operated, the left and right movable pieces 28b are displaced (expanded) from the closed position toward the open position, and the opening width of the left start winning port 28a is expanded to the left and right. During this time, the variable start winning device 28 is in a state in which a game ball can flow in, and generates a winning to the left start winning port 28a. Note that the arrangement (gauge) of the obstacle nails installed on the game board 8 is basically a mode in which it is easy to guide the flow of the game balls toward the variable start winning device 28, but the game balls are always variable. The inflow does not necessarily flow into the start winning device 28, but the inflow occurs only at random.

  Here, in the lower part of the ball discharge path 40f and the upper part of the variable start winning device 28 and the right start winning port 26, the sorting device 200 is arranged. The details of the structure of the distribution device 200 and the operation description will be described later.

  In addition, the above variable winning device 30 operates when a prescribed condition is satisfied (when a special symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode other than non-winning), and can be awarded to a big winning opening (no reference sign). (Special electric equipment, special winning event generation means). The variable winning device 30 is a device disposed on the left side of the upper end portion of the effect unit 40 (so-called upper attacker), and has, for example, one opening / closing member 30a. The opening / closing member 30a is displaced from the closed position toward the open position by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. As shown in the drawing, the opening / closing member 30a is in the closed position (closed state) with the tip facing upward (continuous with the effect unit 40), and at this time, winning in the grand prize opening is always impossible (big winning) The mouth is closed). When the variable winning device 30 is operated, the opening / closing member 30a is displaced so as to fall to the left with the lower end edge portion serving as a hinge, thereby opening the large winning opening (open state). During this time, the variable winning device 30 is in a state in which the inflow of game balls is not impossible, and can generate an event of winning a prize winning opening. At this time, the opening / closing member 30a also functions as a member for guiding the inflow of the game ball to the special winning opening.

  In addition, an out port 32 is formed in the game area 8 a, and game balls that have not won a prize are finally collected through the out port 32 to the back side of the game board 8. In addition, all the game balls that have been driven into the game area 8a, including the game balls won in the right start winning opening 26, the variable start winning device 28, and the variable winning device 30, are collected to the back side of the game board 8. The collected game balls are discharged out of the frame from the back side of the pachinko machine 1 through an out passage assembly (not shown), and further join a supply path of an island facility (not shown).

  The game board 8 is provided with a normal symbol display device 33 and a normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, for example, at the lower right position in the window 4a, as well as a first special symbol display device 34, a second special symbol display device 35, A first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, a second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a, and a game state display device 38 are provided (normal symbol display means, special symbol display means, lottery element storage means). Among these, the normal symbol display device 33, for example, turns on two lamps (LEDs) alternately to display the normal symbols variably, and stops and displays the normal symbols when the lamps are turned on or off. The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a displays 0 to 4 memory numbers depending on, for example, a combination of turning off, lighting, or blinking of two lamps (LEDs).

  FIG. 3 is an enlarged front view showing a part of the game board 8 (lower right position in the window 4a). The first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 can display the variation state and stop state of the special symbol by, for example, 7 segment LEDs (with dots), respectively (symbol display means).

  In addition, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a each display 0 to 4 memory numbers, for example, by combinations of extinguishing, lighting, or blinking of two lamps (LEDs). (Memory number display means). For example, when both lamps are off, 0 is stored, when 1 lamp is lit, 1 is displayed, and when the same lamp is flashing, 2 is displayed. When the other lamp is turned on, 3 stored numbers are displayed, and when the two lamps are both flashed, 4 stored numbers are displayed.

  When the game ball flows into the right start winning opening 26, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is displayed one by one in the sense of memorizing that a winning has occurred, and the special symbol changes in response to the winning. Each time is started, the display decreases by one. In addition, when the game ball flows into the variable start winning device 28 (the left start winning port 28a), the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is displayed one by one in the sense that it stores the winning, Each time the change of the special symbol is started in response to the winning, the display decreases by one. In the present embodiment, when the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the first special symbol can be started to fluctuate (at the time of stop display) in the right start winning opening 26. The display does not increase even if game balls flow in. Further, when the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a) is in a state in which the second special symbol can already start to change (when stopped). ) The display does not increase even if game balls flow into. That is, the number of displays (maximum 4) of each special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, 35a represents the number of winnings that have not yet started to change in the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

  The game state display device 38 includes four LEDs corresponding to, for example, jackpot type display lamps 38a and 38b, a probability variation state display lamp 38c, and a short time state display lamp 38d. In the present embodiment, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol described above. The operation memory lamp 35a and the game status display device 38 are attached to the game board 8 in a state where they are mounted on one integrated display board 89.

[Other configuration of the game board: see FIG. 1]
The game board 8 is provided with a production unit 40 from the center position to the right side. The effect unit 40 has an upper edge portion 40a that functions as a guide member that changes the flow direction of the game ball, and includes various decorative parts 40b and 40c on the inner side. The decorative parts 40b and 40c can enhance the decorativeness of the game board 8 by the three-dimensional modeling, and can perform a dramatic operation by emitting transmitted light using, for example, a built-in light emitter (LED or the like). In addition, a liquid crystal display 42 (image display, image effect execution means) is installed inside the effect unit 40. The liquid crystal display 42 includes various effect images including effect symbols corresponding to special symbols. Is displayed. As described above, the game board 8 impresses the player with the characteristics of the pachinko machine 1 based on the configuration of the board surface (design of a cell plate (not shown)) and the decoration of the effect unit 40.

  A ball guide passage 40d is formed at the left edge of the effect unit 40, and a rolling stage 40e is formed at the lower edge thereof. The ball guide passage 40d is opened obliquely upward to the left in the game area 8a. When a game ball flowing down in the game area 8a randomly flows into the ball guide path 40d, it passes through the inside and rolls. Released onto the stage 40e. The upper surface of the rolling stage 40e has a smooth curved surface. Here, the game ball can roll in the left-right direction. The game ball that has rolled on the rolling stage 40e will eventually flow into the lower game area 8a. A ball discharge path 40f is formed at the center position of the rolling stage 40e. At this time, the game balls that have flowed down from the rolling stage 40e to the ball discharge path 40f are likely to flow into the sorting device 200 directly below. In addition, the production unit 40 may be accompanied by a drive source (eg, a motor, a solenoid, etc.) together with a production movable body (eg, a character figure, decoration, etc.). In addition to the effect using the image by the liquid crystal display 42 and the effect by the light emitter, the movable body for effect can execute the effect accompanied by the operation of the tangible object. Due to the effects using these movable bodies, it is possible to demonstrate appealing power different from the effects using two-dimensional images.

[Configuration of the front of the frame]
In the glass frame unit 4, glass frame top lamps 46 and 48 and glass frame side lamps 50 are installed at a plurality of locations so as to surround the glass unit 8 as components for production. In addition, a tray lamp 52 is installed in the tray unit 6, and the tray lamp 52, the glass frame top lamps 46 and 48, and the glass frame side lamp 50 are integrally connected on the front surface of the pachinko machine 1 in appearance. Designed as if it were.

  The various lamps 46 to 52 described above perform effects by, for example, light emission (lighting and blinking, change in luminance gradation, change in color tone, and the like) of built-in LEDs. In addition, a pair of left and right glass frame speakers 54 and a glass frame middle speaker 55 are built in the upper part of the glass frame unit 4, and a saucer speaker 56 is provided on the right side of the lower plate 6 c in the saucer unit 6. Built in. These speakers 54, 55, and 56 output sound effects, BGM, voice, etc. (sound in general) and execute effects.

  In the center of the tray unit 6, an effect switching button 45 (operation input receiving means) is installed at a position in front of the upper tray 6b. The player operates the effect switching button 45 to switch the contents of the effect (for example, the background screen displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 42), for example, while the symbol is changing, during the big hit confirmation display, or during the big hit game It is possible to generate some effects (various notice effects, probable promotion effects, etc.).

[Configuration on the back side]
As shown in FIG. 2, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, there are a power supply control unit 162, a main control board unit 170, a dispensing device unit 172, a flow path unit 173, a launch control board set 174, and a dispensing control board unit 176. A back cover unit 178 and the like are installed. In addition, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, various electronic devices (including a control computer not shown) constituting the power supply system and control system of the pachinko machine 1, an external terminal board 160, a power cord (power plug) 164, A ground wire (ground terminal) 166, connection wiring (not shown), and the like are installed. The electronic devices will be further described later based on another block diagram (FIG. 7).

  The payout device unit 172 has, for example, a prize ball tank 172a and a prize ball case (no reference sign), and the prize ball tank 172a is installed on the upper edge (back side) of the plastic frame assembly 7. In this state, game balls replenished from a replenishment route (not shown) can be stored. The game balls stored in the prize ball tank 172a are guided to a prize ball case through an upper prize ball basket (not shown). The flow path unit 173 guides the game ball sent out from the payout unit 172 toward the tray unit 6 on the front side.

  The external terminal board 160 is an interface for connecting the pachinko machine 1 to an external electronic device (for example, a data display device, a hall computer, etc.). From the external terminal board 160, the game progress of the pachinko machine 1 is achieved. Various external information signals (for example, award ball information, door opening information, symbol determination number information, jackpot information, start opening information, etc.) indicating the state and maintenance state are output to an external electronic device. Yes.

  The power cord 164 secures a power source (electric power) necessary for the operation of the pachinko machine 1 by being connected to, for example, a power source device (for example, AC 24V) installed in an island facility of a game arcade. The ground wire 166 is also connected to a ground terminal installed in the island facility to secure the ground (ground) of the pachinko machine 1.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the details of the structure of the sorting apparatus 200.
Regardless of the gaming state, the distribution device 200 generates a winning at the right start winning opening 26 (occurrence of the first event) and generates a winning at the variable start winning apparatus 28 (the left starting winning opening 28a) (the second event). This is a device that can alternately generate (occurrence) (event generation means).
The sorting apparatus 200 includes a guide path 201 having a width that allows one game ball to pass therethrough. The guide path 201 has a tunnel-like structure, and two outlets (a first outlet 203 and a second outlet 204) are formed for one inlet 202. Therefore, the game ball that has entered the inlet 202 is guided to either the first outlet 203 or the second outlet 204. The guide path 201 is made of a transparent member, and the visibility of the game ball is ensured.

A cylindrical space is formed in the central portion of the guide path 201, and a windmill-shaped rotating body 205 is disposed in the space. The rotator 205 has three wing members 205a, b, and c extending in the radial direction from the central axis of the rotator 205. The rotating body 205 is not operated by electric or other power, but rotates when the game ball collides with the wing members 205a, b, and c.
Here, two protrusions 206 a and 206 b that restrict the rotation of the rotating body 205 are provided in the guide path 201 (near the middle of the first outlet 203 and the second outlet 204) in the lower part of the rotating body 205. Yes. Then, when the wing members 205a and 205b come into contact with the protrusions 206a and 206b, the rotation of the rotating body 205 is restricted.

  5 and 6 are diagrams for explaining the operating principle of the sorting apparatus 200. FIG. FIG. 5 shows a state where game balls are distributed to the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a), and FIG. 6 shows a state where game balls are distributed to the right start winning port 26. .

[Distribution to variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a)]
As shown in FIG. 5A, in the initial state, the wing member 205b of the rotating body 205 is in contact with the right protrusion 206b.
When the game ball 300 enters the entrance 202 in this state, the game ball 300 enters between the wing member 205a and the wing member 205c in the rotator 205, and the rotator 205 rotates counterclockwise (counterclockwise) by the weight of the game sphere 300. ).

  Then, as shown in FIG. 5B, when the rotating body 205 rotates counterclockwise, the game ball 300 is guided to the first outlet 203, and the game ball 300 is distributed to the variable start winning device 28 side. . The wing member 205a of the rotating body 205 is in contact with the left protrusion 206a, whereby the rotation of the rotating body 205 is restricted. The game balls 300 distributed to the variable start winning device 28 side may win the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a) as it is, or may be changed by being bounced by a nail above the variable start winning device 28. There is a case where the start winning device 28 is not won. In addition, depending on the state of the nail in the game area 8a, there is also a game ball 300 that wins the variable start winning device 28 without going through the sorting device 200. The member between the left start winning opening 28a and the nail above it is merely a passing gate.

[Distribution to the right start winning entrance 26]
As described above, when the distribution to the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a) is performed, the wing member 205a of the rotating body 205 is in contact with the left protrusion 206a. .
As shown in FIG. 6A, when the game ball 300 enters the entrance 202 in this state, the game ball 300 enters between the wing member 205b and the wing member 205c in the rotating body 205, and the weight of the game ball 300 is increased. As a result, the rotating body 205 rotates clockwise (clockwise).

  Then, as shown in FIG. 6B, when the rotating body 205 rotates clockwise, the game ball 300 is guided to the second outlet 204, and the game ball 300 is distributed to the right start winning opening 26 side. . The wing member 205b of the rotator 205 is in contact with the right protrusion 206b, whereby the rotation of the rotator 205 is restricted. The game balls distributed to the right start winning port 26 may be directly awarded to the right start winning port 26 as in the case of the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a) described above. In some cases, the right starting winning opening 26 may not be won by being hit by a nail above 26. There is also a game ball 300 that wins the right start winning opening 26 without going through the sorting device 200 depending on the state of the nail in the game area 8a.

  In the present embodiment, since such a distribution device 200 is adopted, a winning occurs at the right start winning opening 26 (occurrence of the first event) and a variable start winning apparatus 28 (the left starting winning opening 28a). The occurrence of winning (occurrence of the second event) occurs alternately at a relatively high frequency. However, the winning at the right start winning opening 26 may continue, or the winning at the left start winning opening 28a may continue.

[Control configuration]
Next, a configuration related to control of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing various electronic devices equipped in the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 includes a main control device 70 (main control computer) that serves as the center of the control operation. The main control device 70 mainly has a function of controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. Yes. The main controller 70 is built in the main control board unit 170 described above.

  The main controller 70 is equipped with a circuit board (main control board) on which a main control CPU 72 as a central processing unit is mounted. The main control CPU 72 includes a ROM 74 and a RAM (RWM) together with a CPU core and registers (not shown). ) This is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as 76 are integrated. The main controller 70 is equipped with a random number generator 75 and a sampling circuit 77. Among these, the random number generator 75 generates a hardware random number (for example, 0 to 65535 in decimal notation) for determining the big hit, and the generated random number is input to the main control CPU 72 through the sampling circuit 77. The In addition, the main controller 70 is equipped with peripheral ICs such as an input / output (I / O) port 79, a clock generation circuit (not shown), a counter / timer circuit (CTC), etc., and these are circuited together with the main control CPU 72. It is mounted on the board. A signal transmission path, a power supply path, a control bus, and the like are formed as wiring patterns on the circuit board (or the inner layer portion).

  The start gate 20 described above is integrally provided with a gate switch 78 for detecting the passage of a game ball. The game board 8 is provided with a right start winning port switch 80, a left start winning port switch 82 and a count switch 84 corresponding to the right start winning port 26, the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30, respectively. . Each start winning port switch 80, 82 is for detecting a winning of a game ball to the right start winning port 26 and the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a). The count switch 84 is for detecting the winning of a game ball to the variable winning device 30 (large winning opening) and counting the number. Similarly, the game board 8 is equipped with a winning opening switch 86 for detecting the winning of a game ball to the normal winning openings 22 and 24. Here, a configuration using a common winning opening switch 86 for all the normal winning openings 22 and 24 is given as an example, but for example, separate winning opening switches 86 are installed on the left and right sides of the board, and the left winning opening switch is provided. In 86, a winning of a game ball for the normal winning ports 22, 24 located on the left side of the board surface is detected, and in the right winning port switch 86, a winning of a game ball in the normal winning port 24 located on the right side of the board surface is detected. Also good.

  In any case, the winning detection signals of these switches 78 to 86 are input to the main control CPU 72 via an input / output driver (not shown). Due to the configuration of the game board 8, in this embodiment, the winning detection signals from the gate switch 78, the count switch 84, and the winning opening switch 86 are transmitted via the panel relay terminal plate 87, and are sent to the panel relay terminal plate 87. , Wiring patterns and connection terminals for relaying the respective winning detection signals are provided.

  The above-mentioned normal symbol display device 33, normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, first special symbol display device 34, second special symbol display device 35, first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a and game The state display device 38 is controlled in display operation based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72. The main control CPU 72 outputs control signals for the display devices 33, 34, 35, 38 and the lamps 33a, 34a, 35a according to the progress of the game, and controls the lighting state of each LED. The display devices 33, 34, 35, and 38 and the lamps 33a, 34a, and 35a are installed on the game board 8 in a state of being mounted on one integrated display board 89 as described above. A control signal is transmitted from the main control CPU 72 to the substrate 89 via the panel relay terminal board 87.

  Further, the game board 8 is provided with a normal electric accessory solenoid 88 and a big prize opening solenoid 90 corresponding to the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30, respectively. These solenoids 88 and 90 are operated (excited) based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72 to open and close (activate) the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30 respectively. The solenoids 88 and 90 also transmit control signals from the main control CPU 72 through the panel relay terminal plate 87 described above.

  In addition, a glass frame opening switch 91 is installed in the glass frame unit 4, and a plastic frame opening switch 93 is installed in the plastic frame assembly 7. When the glass frame unit 4 is opened alone, a contact signal from the glass frame opening switch 91 is input to the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72), and when the plastic frame assembly 7 is opened from the outer frame assembly 2. The contact point signal from the plastic frame opening switch 93 is input to the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72). The main control CPU 72 can detect the open state of the glass frame unit 4 and the plastic frame assembly 7 from these contact signals. When the main control CPU 72 detects the open state of the glass frame unit 4 or the plastic frame assembly 7, the main control CPU 72 generates a door opening information signal as the external information signal.

  On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a payout control device 92 is equipped (special privilege grant means). The payout control device 92 (payout control computer) controls the operation of the payout device unit 172 described above. The payout control device 92 is equipped with a circuit board (payout control board) on which a payout control CPU 94 is mounted. The payout control CPU 94 is also an LSI in which a semiconductor memory such as a ROM 96 and a RAM 98 is integrated together with a CPU core (not shown). It is configured. The payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94) controls the operation of the payout device unit 172 based on the prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, and executes the payout operation of the requested number of game balls. The main control CPU 72 generates a prize ball information signal as the external information signal together with the prize ball instruction command.

  In a prize ball case (not shown) of the payout device unit 172, a payout device substrate 100 is installed together with a payout motor 102 (for example, a stepping motor). The payout device substrate 100 is provided with a drive circuit for the payout motor 102. Yes. The payout device substrate 100 specifically controls the rotation angle of the payout motor 102 based on the payout number instruction signal from the payout control device 92 (the payout control CPU 94), and pays out the designated number of game balls from the prize ball case. Let it come out. The paid-out game balls are sent to the tray unit 6 through the payout flow path in the flow path unit 173.

  Further, for example, a payout path ball cut switch 104 is installed at an upstream position of the prize ball case, and a payout counting switch 106 is installed at a downstream position of the payout motor 102. When a prize ball is actually paid out by driving the payout motor 102, a count signal from the payout count switch 106 is input to the payout device substrate 100 each time. Further, when a ball break occurs at an upstream position of the prize ball case, a contact signal from the payout path ball break switch 104 is input to the payout device substrate 100. The dispensing device substrate 100 transmits the input count signal and contact signal to the dispensing control device 92 (dispensing control CPU 94). The payout control CPU 94 can detect the actual payout number and the out-of-ball state based on the signal received from the payout device substrate 100.

  Further, the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a full switch 161, for example, inside the lower plate 6c (the position of the bowl as viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1). The prize balls (game balls) that are actually paid out are discharged to the upper plate 6b through the flow path unit 173. When the upper plate 6b is full of game balls, As described above, it flows into the lower plate 6c. When the lower tray 6c is filled with game balls, the full tank switch 161 is turned ON, and a full tank detection signal is input to the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94). In response to this, even if the payout control CPU 94 receives a prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, it temporarily suspends further prize ball operations, and stores the unpaid prize ball remaining number in the RAM 98. Note that the RAM 98 can be backed up even when the power is cut off, so that even if a power failure (including momentary power failure) occurs during the game, the information on the number of remaining unsold prize balls will not be lost. .

  On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a firing solenoid 110 is installed together with the firing control board 108. In addition, a ball feeding solenoid 111 is provided in the tray unit 6. The launch control board 108, the launch solenoid 110, and the ball feed solenoid 111 constitute the launch control board set 174 described above, and the launch control board 108 is provided with drive circuits for the launch solenoid 110 and the ball feed solenoid 111. ing. Among these, the ball feed solenoid 111 performs an operation of sending out the game balls stored in the tray unit 6 one by one to a predetermined launch position in the launcher case. Moreover, the launch solenoid 110 hits the game ball sent to the launch position, and performs the operation of firing game balls one by one continuously (intermittently) toward the game area 8 as described above. The game ball is emitted at intervals of, for example, about 0.6 seconds (within 100 per minute).

  On the other hand, the grip unit 16 located on the front side of the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a firing lever volume 112, a touch sensor 114, and a firing stop switch 116. Among these, the firing lever volume 112 generates an analog signal proportional to the operation amount (so-called stroke) of the firing handle by the player. The touch sensor 114 detects that the player's body is touching the grip unit 16 (launching handle) from the change in capacitance, and outputs a detection signal. The firing stop switch 116 generates a firing stop signal (contact signal) in accordance with the player's operation.

  The above receiving tray unit 6 is provided with a launch relay terminal plate 118, and each signal from the launch lever volume 112, the touch sensor 114, and the launch stop switch 116 is sent via the launch relay terminal plate 118. Sent to. The drive signal from the launch control board 108 is applied to the ball feed solenoid 111 via the launch relay terminal board 118. When the player operates the firing handle, an analog signal (which may be an encoded digital signal) is generated by the firing lever volume 112 according to the operation amount, and the firing solenoid 110 is driven based on the signal at this time. Thereby, the strength of launching a game ball is adjusted according to the operation amount of the player. The drive circuit of the firing control board 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110 when the detection signal from the touch sensor 114 is off (low level) or when the firing stop signal is input from the firing stop switch 116. . In addition to this, the launch relay terminal plate 118 is connected with a lending device connection terminal plate 120 such as a game ball, and when the above-mentioned CR unit is not connected to this lending device connection terminal plate 120 such as a game ball, the launch is similarly performed. The drive circuit of the control board 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110.

  The tray unit 6 includes a frequency display board 122 and a rental / return switch board 123. Of these, the frequency display board 122 is provided with the display of the frequency display unit (7-segment LED for 3 digits). The lending / return switch board 123 has switch modules connected to the ball lending button 10 and the return button 12, respectively. When the ball lending button 10 or the return button 12 is operated, the operation signal is lended and It is transmitted from the return switch board 123 to the CR unit via the game ball rental device connecting terminal board 120. Further, a frequency signal indicating the remaining frequency of the valuable medium is transmitted from the CR unit to the frequency display board 122 via the game ball lending device connection terminal board 120. A display circuit (not shown) on the frequency display board 122 drives the display unit based on the frequency signal, and displays the remaining frequency of the valuable medium as a numerical value. If no valuable medium is inserted in the CR unit or the remaining frequency of the inserted valuable medium becomes zero, the display circuit of the frequency display board 122 drives the display device to display a demonstration (of the valuable medium). (Display for prompting input) can also be performed.

  Further, the pachinko machine 1 includes an effect control device 124 (effect control computer) as a control configuration. The effect control device 124 controls the effect accompanying the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. The effect control device 124 is also equipped with a circuit board (composite sub-control board) on which an effect control CPU 126 that is a central processing unit is mounted. The effect control CPU 126 includes a CPU core (not shown) and a semiconductor memory such as a ROM 128 and a RAM 130 as a main memory. The production control device 124 is provided at a position covered by the back cover unit 178 on the back side of the pachinko machine 1.

  The effect control device 124 is equipped with an input / output driver (not shown) and various peripheral ICs, as well as a lamp driving circuit 132 and an acoustic driving circuit 134. The production control CPU 126 performs production control based on the production command transmitted from the main control CPU 72, and gives commands to the lamp drive circuit 132 and the acoustic drive circuit 134 to provide various lamps (second light production execution means) 46. To 52 and the panel lamp (first light effect executing means) 53, or the sound (sound effect executing means) 54, 55, and 56 are actually outputted with sound effects and voices.

  The effect control device 124 and the main control device 70 are connected to each other via, for example, a communication harness (not shown). However, the communication between these is performed only in one direction from the main control device 70 to the effect control device 124, and communication in the reverse direction is not performed. Note that the communication harness may adopt a parallel format according to the bus width of various commands transmitted from the main control device 70 to the effect control device 124, or each driver IC (I / O). A serial format may be adopted according to the hardware configuration.

  The lamp driving circuit 132 includes a switching element such as a PWM (pulse width modulation) IC or a MOSFET (not shown). The lamp driving circuit 132 switches driving voltages (or duty switching) applied to various lamps including LEDs. ) And manage the operation such as light emission and flashing. In addition to the glass frame top lamps 46 and 48, the glass frame side lamp 50, and the saucer lamp 52, the various lamps include a decoration / production board lamp 53 installed in the game board 8. The panel lamp 53 corresponds to an LED incorporated in the above-described effect unit, or an LED incorporated in the variable start winning device 28, the variable winning device 30, or the like. Here, although the example in which the saucer lamp 52 is connected to the glass frame decorating board 136 is given, a saucer illuminated board is installed in the saucer unit 6, and the saucer lamp 52 is interposed via the saucer illuminated board. It may be configured to be connected to the lamp driving circuit 132.

  The acoustic drive circuit 134 is, for example, a sound generator that includes a sound ROM, an acoustic control IC, an amplifier, and the like (not shown). The acoustic drive circuit 134 drives the upper speaker 54 and the lower speaker 56 to perform acoustic output.

  In the present embodiment, a glass frame decoration board 136 is installed on the inner surface of the glass frame unit 4, and drive signals from the lamp drive circuit 132 and the acoustic drive circuit 134 pass through the glass frame decoration board 136 and various lamps 46. To 52 and speakers 54, 55, and 56. Further, the effect switching button 45 is connected to the glass frame decorating board 136, and when the player operates the effect switching button 45, the contact signal is input to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame decorating board 136. Is done. In addition, although the example which connected the production | presentation switch button 45 to the glass-frame decoration board 136 is given here, when installing said saucer illumination board, the production switch button 45 is connected to the saucer illumination board. Also good. In addition, the panel board 138 is installed in the game board 8, and a driving signal from the lamp driving circuit 132 is applied to the panel lamp 53 via the panel board 138.

  The liquid crystal display 42 is installed on the back side of the game board 8 and the display screen through the substantially rectangular opening formed in the game board 8 is visible. Further, an inverter board 158 is installed on the back side of the game board 8, and the inverter board 158 generates an AC power source that is applied to a backlight (for example, a cathode tube) of the liquid crystal display 42. Furthermore, an effect display control device 144 is installed on the back side of the game board 8, and the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 is controlled by the effect display control device 144. The effect display control device 144 is equipped with a display control CPU 146 that is a general-purpose central processing unit and a circuit board (effect display control board) on which a VDP 152 that is a display processor is mounted. Among these, the display control CPU 146 is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as a ROM 148 and a RAM 150 are integrated together with a CPU core (not shown). The VDP 152 is configured as an LSI in which a semiconductor core such as an image ROM 154 and a VRAM 156 is integrated with a processor core (not shown). The VRAM 156 can use a part of the storage area as a frame buffer.

  The ROM 128 of the effect control CPU 126 stores a basic program related to effect control, and the effect control CPU 126 executes effect control according to this program. The production control includes production control using various lamps 46 to 53 and speakers 54, 55, and 56 as described above, and production control by image display using the liquid crystal display 42. . The effect control CPU 126 transmits basic information (for example, effect number) related to the effect to the display control CPU 146, and the display control CPU 146 that receives the information transmits a specific effect image based on the basic information. Control the display.

  The display control CPU 146 outputs a more detailed control signal to the VDP 152. Receiving this, the VDP 152 accesses the image ROM 154 based on the control signal, reads necessary image data therefrom, and transfers it to the VRAM 156. Further, the VDP 152 expands the image data in the frame buffer for each frame (still image per unit time) on the VRAM 156, and individually handles each pixel (full color pixel) of the liquid crystal display 42 based on the buffered image data. To drive.

  In addition, a power supply control unit 162 (power supply control means) is provided on the back side of the plastic frame assembly 7. The power supply control unit 162 has a built-in switching power supply circuit. When external power (for example, AC 24V) is taken from the island facility through the power cord 164, necessary power (for example, DC + 34V, + 12V) can be generated therefrom. The electric power generated by the power supply control unit 162 is distributed to the main control device 70, the payout control device 92, the effect control device 124, and the inverter board 158. Furthermore, power is supplied to the launch control board 108 via the payout control device 92, and power is supplied to the CR unit via the game ball rental device connection terminal board 120. The low voltage power for logic (for example, DC + 5V) is generated by a power supply IC (3-terminal regulator or the like) built in each device. Further, as described above, the power supply control unit 164 is grounded (grounded) to the island facility through the ground wire 166.

  The external terminal plate 160 is connected to the payout control device 92, and various external information signals generated by the main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) pass through the payout control device 92 to the external terminal plate 160. Is output to the outside. The main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) and the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94) can output an external information signal to the outside of the pachinko machine 1 through the external terminal board 160. The signals output from the external terminal board 160 are collected by, for example, a hall computer (not shown) in a game hall. Here, the configuration via the payout control device 92 is taken as an example, but a configuration in which an external information signal is directly output from the main control device 70 to the external terminal board 160 may be used.

  The above is a configuration example relating to the control of the pachinko machine 1. Next, control processing executed by the main control CPU 72 of the main control device 70 will be described.

[Reset start (main) processing]
When the pachinko machine 1 is powered on, the main control CPU 72 starts a reset start process. The reset start process restores the gaming state based on the backup information saved at the previous power shutdown (so-called power recovery) or conversely clears the backup information, thereby adjusting the initial state of the pachinko machine 1 Process. The reset start process is positioned as a main process (main control program) for guaranteeing a stable gaming operation of the pachinko machine 1 after adjusting the initial state.

  8 and 9 are flowcharts showing an example of the procedure of the reset start process. Hereinafter, the process performed by the main control CPU 72 will be described step by step.

  Step S101: First, the main control CPU 72 sets the top address of the stack area in the stack pointer.

  Step S102: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 sets the vector-type interrupt mode (mode 2) and corrects the default RST-type interrupt mode (mode 0). Thus, thereafter, the main control CPU 72 can refer to an arbitrary address (however, the least significant bit is 0) as an interrupt vector and execute a designated interrupt handler.

  Step S103: The main control CPU 72 executes a standby process at reset. This process is for securing a certain standby time (for example, about several thousand ms) at the time of reset start (for example, power-on) and checking the main power-off detection signal during that time. Specifically, when the main control CPU 72 sets the loop counter for the waiting time, the main control CPU 72 bit-checks the input port of the main power-off detection signal while decrementing the value of the loop counter. The main power-off detection signal is input from, for example, a power monitoring IC that is a peripheral device. If the input of the main power-off detection signal is confirmed before the loop counter reaches 0, the main control CPU 72 restarts the process from the beginning. As a result, for example, the system can be protected when a main power switch (not shown) is turned on and off repeatedly within a short time (about 1 to 2 seconds).

  Step S104: Next, the main control CPU 72 permits access to the work area of the RAM 76. Specifically, the RAM protect setting value in the work area is reset (00H). As a result, thereafter, access to the work area of the RAM 76 is permitted.

  Step S105: Also, the main control CPU 72 performs initial setting of a mask register in order to set an interrupt mask. Specifically, a value for enabling the CTC interrupt is stored in the mask register.

  Step S106: The main control CPU 72 refers to the input signal from the previously cleared RAM clear switch and confirms whether or not the RAM clear switch has been operated (switch ON). If the RAM clear switch is not operated (No), step S107 is executed next.

  Step S107: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not backup information is stored in the RAM 76, that is, whether or not a backup validity determination flag is set. If the backup is normally completed in the previous power-off process and the backup validity determination flag (for example, “A55AH”) is set (Yes), then the main control CPU 72 executes step S108.

  Step S108: The main control CPU 72 executes a sum check on the backup information in the RAM 76. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sum-checks all areas of the work area of the RAM 76 (a user work area including a use-prohibited area and a stack area) except the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer. If the result of the sum check is normal (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S109.

Step S109: The main control CPU 72 resets the backup validity determination flag (for example, “0000H”).
Step S110: The main control CPU 72 clears the command waiting for transmission immediately before the occurrence of the previous power interruption.

  Step S111: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect control return process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 instructs the effect control device 124 to return a command (for example, a model designation command, a special symbol probability state designation command, a special figure destination determination effect command, an effect command when the working memory number is increased, and the action memory number. (Decrease effect command, count counter remaining command, special game state designation command, etc.). In response to this, the effect control device 124 performs the effect state (for example, the internal probability state, the effect symbol display mode, the operation memory count effect display mode, the sound output content, and the various lamps being executed at the time of the previous power shutdown. Light emission state, etc.) can be restored.

  Step S112: The main control CPU 72 executes state return processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets various values in the work area of the RAM 76 based on the backup information, and the gaming state (for example, the display state of special symbols, the internal probability state, The operation memory contents, various flag states, random number update states, etc.) are restored. The main control CPU 72 restores the backed up PC register value.

  On the other hand, when the RAM clear switch is operated at power-on (step S106: Yes), when the backup validity determination flag is not set (step S107: No), or when the backup information is not normal. (Step S108: No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to Step S113.

Step S113: The main control CPU 72 clears the stored contents other than the use prohibited area of the RAM 76. As a result, the work area and stack area of the RAM 76 are all initialized, and even if valid backup information is stored, the contents are erased.
Step S114: The main control CPU 72 performs initial setting of the RAM 76.

  Step S115: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs a command (command necessary for effect control) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 after the initial setting.

  Step S116: The main control CPU 72 executes a payout control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs an instruction command for starting the payout of prize balls to the payout control device 92.

  Step S117: The main control CPU 72 executes CTC initial setting processing, and performs initial setting of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) that is a peripheral device. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets an interrupt vector register and sets an interrupt count value (for example, 4 ms) in the CTC. As a result, when a CTC interrupt occurs next time, the main control CPU 72 can continue the processing from the program address of the PC register that has been backed up.

  When the above procedure is executed in the reset start process, the main control CPU 72 shifts to the main loop shown in FIG. 9 (connection symbol A → A).

  Step S118, Step S119: The main control CPU 72 executes the power interruption occurrence check process after prohibiting interruption. In this process, the main control CPU 72 performs bit check on the input port of the main power-off detection signal and monitors the occurrence of power-off (decrease in drive voltage). When the power is cut off, the main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffer corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the big prize opening solenoid 90, etc. Is backed up, and the sum result value is stored in the sum check buffer. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the valid value (for example, “A55AH”) in the backup validity determination flag area, prohibits access to the RAM 76, and stops (NOP) the process. On the other hand, if the power shutoff does not occur, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S120. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU executes the process at the time of the occurrence of power interruption as a non-maskable interrupt (NMI) process.

  Step S120: The main control CPU 72 executes an initial value update random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 increments random numbers for updating (changing) initial values of various software random numbers. In this embodiment, various random numbers (for example, hit determination random numbers corresponding to ordinary symbols, jackpot symbol random numbers, reach determination random numbers, variation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) other than jackpot determination random numbers (hardware random numbers) are generated on the program. ing. These software random numbers are updated by a loop counter within a predetermined range in another interrupt process (step S201 in FIG. 11). In this process, the initial value of the loop counter (all The random number of may not be the target). The initial value updating random number is used to randomly change the initial value, and in step S120, the initial value updating random number is updated. Note that the reason why step S120 is executed after the interruption is prohibited in step S118 is that the same process is executed in another interrupt management process (step S202 in FIG. 11), so there is a duplication (contention). ) To prevent the above). As described above, in this embodiment, the big hit determination random number is a hardware random number generated by the random number generator 75, and its update cycle is faster (eg, several μs) than the timer interrupt cycle (eg, several ms). Therefore, it is not necessary to update the initial value of the jackpot determination random number.

  Step S121, Step S122: The main control CPU 72 permits the interrupt and executes other random number update processing. The random numbers updated by this processing are random numbers (reach determination random numbers, variation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) that are not related to the determination of the winning type (winning type) among software random numbers. This process is performed for the remaining time when a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the main loop and the main control CPU 72 executes another interrupt management process (FIG. 11). The contents of the interrupt management process will be described later.

[Power failure check processing]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart specifically illustrating a procedure example of the power-off occurrence check process.
Step S130: First, the main control CPU 72 sets a condition for checking the occurrence of power interruption. This check condition can be set, for example, as an on-counter value for confirming that the main power-off detection signal is continuously output.

  Step S132: Next, the main control CPU 72 reads the main power-off detection switch input port and confirms whether or not the main power-off detection signal is output (checks a specific bit). Although not particularly illustrated, the main power-off detection switch is mounted on the main controller 70, for example, and this main power-off detection switch monitors the drive voltage supplied from the power control unit 162, and the voltage level is monitored. When the voltage falls below the reference voltage, the main power-off detection signal is output. Note that the main power-off detection switch may be built in the power control unit 162. When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the main power-off detection signal is not output at this time (No), the main control CPU 72 exits this process and returns to the reset start process. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the main power-off detection signal is output (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S134.

  Step S134: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the above check conditions are satisfied. Specifically, for example, 1 is subtracted from the on-counter value set in the previous step S130, and it is confirmed whether or not the result is 0. If the on-counter value is not yet 0 at this time (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to step S132 and reconfirms the main power-off detection switch input port. When the check condition is satisfied by repeating the loop from step S134 to step S132 (step S134: Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S136.

  Step S136: The main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffer corresponding to the test signal terminal and the command control signal in addition to the output port corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 and the big prize opening solenoid 90 as described above.

Step S138, Step S140: Next, the main control CPU 72 adds the entire contents excluding the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer in the work area of the RAM 76 in units of 1 byte, and repeats until the addition is completed for all areas. .
Step S142: When the calculation of the sum is completed for all the areas (Step S140: Yes), the main control CPU 72 stores the sum result value in the sum check buffer.

Step S144: Next, the main control CPU 72 stores the valid value in the backup validity determination flag area as described above.
Step S146: The main control CPU 72 stores “01H” indicating access prohibition in the protect value of the RAM 76, and prohibits access to the work area (including the use prohibition area and the stack area) of the RAM 76.
Step S148: Then, the main control CPU 72 enters a standby loop and stops all other processes in preparation for shutting off the main power supply. After the main power is cut off, the backup power is supplied from a backup power circuit (not shown) (for example, a circuit including a capacitive element mounted on the main controller 70), so the stored contents of the RAM 76 are lost even after the main power is turned off. Held without. The backup power supply circuit may be incorporated in the power supply control unit 162, for example.

  Through the above processing, all the information stored in the work area of the RAM 76 to be backed up (sum added) is retained in the RAM 76 even after the main power is turned off. The stored memory is restored as backup information when the power is turned off after confirming that the checksum is normal in the previous reset start process (FIG. 8).

[Interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing)]
Next, interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing) will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary procedure of interrupt management processing. The main control CPU 72 executes an interrupt management process every predetermined time (for example, several ms) based on the interrupt request signal from the counter / timer circuit. Each procedure will be described below.

  Step S200: First, the main control CPU 72 saves the values of the registers (accumulator A, flag register F, and general-purpose registers B to L) used during execution of the main loop in the save area of the RAM 76. Another value can be written in the registers (A to L) after the value is saved in the interrupt management process.

  Step S201: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a lottery random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 updates the value of the counter for generating various random numbers for lottery. The value of each counter is incremented in the counter area of the RAM 76 and loops within a specified range. The various random numbers include, for example, jackpot symbol random numbers, normal symbol random numbers determined, and the like.

  Step S202: The main control CPU 72 executes the initial value update random number update process also here. The content of the process is the same as described above.

  Step S203: The main control CPU 72 executes input processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 inputs various switch signals from an input / output (I / O) port 79. Specifically, an input state (ON / OFF) of a passage detection signal from the gate switch 78 and a winning detection signal from the right starting winning port switch 80, left starting winning port switch 82, count switch 84, and winning port switch 86. Lead.

  Step S204: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes switch input event processing. In this process, among the switch signals input in the previous input process, the determination of an event occurring during the game is made based on the winning detection signals from the gate switch 78, the right start winning port switch 80, and the left starting winning port switch 82. Depending on the event that occurred, further processing is executed. The specific contents of the switch input event process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  In this embodiment, when a winning detection signal (ON) is input from the right start winning port switch 80 or the left starting winning port switch 82, the main control CPU 72 performs internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol, respectively. It is determined that an event that triggers the event (lottery opportunity) has occurred. When the passage detection signal (ON) is input from the gate switch 78, the main control CPU 72 determines that an event serving as a lottery trigger corresponding to the normal symbol has occurred. If it is determined that any event has occurred, the main control CPU 72 executes a process corresponding to each event. The processing executed when a winning detection signal is input from the right start winning port switch 80 or the left starting winning port switch 82 will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S205, Step S206: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol game process and a normal symbol game process during the interrupt management process. These processes are for specifically proceeding with the game in the pachinko machine 1. Of these, in the special symbol game process (step S205), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol described above, or the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 34. (2) The variable display and stop display by the special symbol display device 35 are controlled, and the operation of the variable winning device 30 is controlled according to the display result. Details of the special symbol game process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  In the normal symbol game process (step S206), the main control CPU 72 controls the variable display and stop display by the normal symbol display device 33 described above, and controls the operation of the variable start winning device 28 according to the display result. To do. For example, the main control CPU 72 stores a random number (ordinary random number per symbol) acquired in response to the passage of the start gate 20 in the previous switch input event processing (step S204). The random number value is read out from the memory, and it is determined whether or not it falls within a predetermined hit range (operation lottery execution means). When the random number value falls within the hit range, the normal symbol display device 33 displays the normal symbol in a variable manner, and after stopping the normal symbol in a predetermined hit state, the main control CPU 72 switches the normal electric accessory solenoid 88 on. Excitingly activates the variable start winning device 28 (movable piece actuating means). On the other hand, if the random number value is out of the hit range, the main control CPU 72 performs a normal symbol stop display in a manner of deviation after the variable display.

  Step S207: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes prize ball payout processing. In this process, based on the winning detection signals input from the various switches 80, 82, 84, 86 in the previous input process (step S203), a prize ball instruction command for instructing the payout control device 92 the number of prize balls is issued. Output.

  Step S208: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes external information processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sends the above-mentioned external information signals (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, symbol determination number information, jackpot information, start port information, etc.) to the hall computer of the game hall through the external terminal board 160. Store in port output request buffer.

  In the present embodiment, among various external information signals, for example, “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” are output to the outside as jackpot information, so that an external electronic device (data display Can provide various jackpot information (external information signal output means). In other words, the jackpot information is divided into a plurality of “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” and output, so that the type of jackpot (winning type) from these combinations can be tabulated and managed by a hall computer (not shown) or internal Recognize changes in the probability state (low probability state or high probability state) or shortened state of symbol variation time, or generate a small hit (a hit where the condition device does not work) that is not classified as a “big hit” even if it is not winning Can be aggregated and managed. Based on the jackpot information, for example, a data display device (not shown) counts and displays the number of jackpot occurrences within the past several business days for each pachinko machine 1, and recognizes whether or not each jackpot is currently jackpot. Or for each table, it can be recognized whether or not the current symbol variation time is in a shortened state. In this external information processing, the main control CPU 72 controls each output state (set of ON or OFF) of “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” in detail.

  Step S209: The main control CPU 72 executes test signal processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates various test signals representing its internal state (for example, normal symbol game management state, special symbol game management state, jackpot, probability variation function in operation, time reduction function in operation). These are stored in the port output request buffer. With this test signal, for example, the internal state of the main control CPU 72 can be tested outside the main controller 70.

  Step S210: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes display output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 performs the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol. The lighting state of the operation memory lamp 35a, the game state display device 38, etc. is controlled. Specifically, the drive signal stored in the port output request buffer is output to the port in the previous special symbol game process (step S205) or the normal symbol game process (step S206). The drive signal is stored in the port output request buffer as byte data to be applied to each LED. As a result, each LED is driven in a predetermined display mode (a mode of performing symbol variation display, stop display, working memory number display, game state display, etc.).

  Step S211: The main control CPU 72 executes output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs the external information signal (byte data) stored in the port output request buffer in the previous external information processing (step S208). Further, the main control CPU 72 outputs the drive signals, test signals, and the like of the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 and the special prize opening solenoid 90 stored in the port output request buffer together.

  Step S212: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect control output process. In this processing, it is confirmed whether or not there is a command (command necessary for presentation control) that the main control CPU 72 should transmit to the presentation control device 124 in the command buffer. Output port.

  Step S213: The main control CPU 72 clears the port output request buffer stored by the current CTC interrupt.

  In the present embodiment, an example is given in which the processing (game control program module) of steps S205 to S212 is executed as a timer interrupt processing. However, these processings are executed by being incorporated in the main loop of the CPU. There is also a programming example.

  Step S214: When the above processing is completed, the main control CPU 72 stores a value (01H) for designating the end of interrupt in the interrupt program counter, and ends the CTC interrupt.

  Step S215, Step S216: Then, the main control CPU 72 restores the saved values of the registers (A to L) and permits the next CTC interrupt. Thereafter, the main control CPU 72 returns to the main loop (program address indicated by the stack pointer).

[Switch input event processing]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the switch input event process (step S204 in FIG. 11). Each procedure will be described below.

  Step S10: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input (a first event occurs) from the right start winning port switch 80 corresponding to the first special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S12 and executes the first special symbol memory update process. Specific processing contents will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, when no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S14.

  Step S14: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input (second event occurs) from the left start winning port switch 82 corresponding to the second special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S16 and executes the second special symbol memory update process. Here again, the details of the specific processing will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, if there is no input of a winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S18.

  Step S18: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input from the count switch 84 corresponding to the big winning opening. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S20 and executes a large winning mouth count process. In the big winning opening counting process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the variable winning device 30 every round during the big hit game. On the other hand, if no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S22.

  Step S22: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not a passage detection signal is input from the gate switch 78 corresponding to the normal symbol. When the input of the passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S24 and executes the normal symbol memory update process. In the normal symbol memory update process, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current number of normal symbol working memories is less than the upper limit number (for example, 4), and if it does not reach the upper limit number, obtains a random number per normal symbol To do. Further, the main control CPU 72 increments the normal symbol operating memory number by one. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the acquired random value per normal symbol in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. On the other hand, when no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 11).

[First special symbol memory update process]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol memory update process (step S12 in FIG. 12). Hereinafter, the procedure of the first special symbol memory update process will be described in order.

  Step S30: First, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the first special symbol working memory number counter to check whether or not the working memory number is less than the maximum value (for example, 4). The working memory number counter represents the number (the number of sets) of big hit determination random numbers and big hit symbol random numbers stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. Here, the random number storage area of the RAM 76 is divided into eight sections (for example, 2 bytes each) used in common for the first special symbol and the second special symbol, and each section has a big hit decision random number and a big hit symbol. Random numbers can be stored one by one. At this time, if the value of the working memory number counter corresponding to the first special symbol has reached the maximum value (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 12). On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter is less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S31.

  Step S31: The main control CPU 72 adds one first special symbol working memory number. The first special symbol operation memory number counter is stored, for example, in the operation memory number area of the RAM 76, and the main control CPU 72 increments (+1) the value. Based on the counter value added here, the lighting state of the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is controlled by the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11).

  Step S32: The main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot determination random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (acquisition of first lottery element, lottery element acquisition means). The random value is acquired by specifying the pin address of the random number generator 75. In the case where the main control CPU 72 performs 8-bit processing, the address designation is performed twice for each upper byte and lower byte. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot determination random number value from the designated address, the main control CPU 72 saves it at the transfer destination address as a jackpot determination random number corresponding to the first special symbol.

  Step S33: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The acquisition of the random number value is also performed by designating the address of the jackpot symbol random number counter area. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot symbol random number value from the designated address, the main control CPU 72 saves it at the transfer destination address as a jackpot symbol random number corresponding to the first special symbol.

  Step S34: Also, the main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires a reach determination random number and a variation pattern determination random number from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 as a random value related to the variation condition of the first special symbol (variation pattern determination element acquisition means) ). Similarly, these random number values are acquired by designating the address of the random number counter area for variation. When the main control CPU 72 acquires the reach determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number from the designated address, it saves them in the transfer destination address.

  Step S35: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number, and variation pattern determination random number together to a random number storage area used in common in the first special symbol and the second special symbol, These random numbers are stored as a set in an empty section in the area. The order (for example, first to eighth) is set in the plurality of sections. If all the first to eighth sections are empty at this stage, the random numbers are stored in order from the first section. Alternatively, if the first section is already filled and the other second to eighth sections are empty, the random numbers are stored in order from the second section. However, regarding the first special symbol, only four sections can be used (the same applies to the second special symbol). Therefore, even if there is an empty section, if four sections are already used for the first special symbol, no more random numbers of the first special symbol are stored. Note that the random number storage area is read out in a FIFO (First In First Out) format.

  Step S36: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game management state (internal state) is a big hit. If it is not during the big hit (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S37 and S38. If it is a big hit (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips steps S37 and S38 and proceeds to step S38a. The reason why this determination is made in the present embodiment is that the pre-reading effect is not performed during the big hit.

  Step S37: When the current game management state (internal state) is other than the big hit (step S36: No), the main control CPU 72 executes an effect determination process at the time of acquisition for the first special symbol. This process determines the result of the internal lottery in advance (before the start of fluctuation) based on the jackpot determination random number and the jackpot symbol random number of the first special symbol respectively acquired in the previous steps S32 to S34, and thereby the production contents This is for determination (so-called “look ahead”). The specific processing contents will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S38: After returning from the at-acquisition effect determination process, the main control CPU 72 next sets the upper bytes (for example, “B8H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command for the first special symbol. This high-order byte data describes that the command type is “for special figure destination determination effect relating to the first special symbol”. Since the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command is set in the previous acquisition effect determination process (step S37), the upper byte is combined with the lower byte, for example. Will be generated.

  Step S38a: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories regarding the first special symbol. Specifically, for the preceding value (for example, “BBH”) of the upper byte representing the type of command, a 1-word length in which the increased number of working memories (for example, “01H” to “04H”) is added to the lower byte. A production command is generated. At this time, for the lower byte, the second place is set to “0” by default to indicate that the value is “result (change information) due to increase in number of working memories”. That is, if the lower byte is “01H”, it indicates that the current working memory number has become “01H” as a result of increasing by one from the previous working memory number “00H”. Similarly, if the lower byte is “02H” to “04H”, it is increased by one from the previous working memory numbers “01H” to “03H”, so that the current working memory number is “02H” to “02H”. 04H ". The preceding value “BBH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is the working memory number command for the first special symbol.

  Step S39: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output setting process for the first special symbol. This process is for transmitting the special figure destination determination effect command generated in the previous step S38, the effect command for increasing the number of working memories generated in step S38a, and the start opening winning tone control command to the effect control device 124. (Memory number notification means).

  When the above procedure is completed or the first special symbol operation memory number has reached 4 (step S30: No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 12).

[Second special symbol memory update process]
Next, FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol memory update process (step S16 in FIG. 12). Hereinafter, the procedure of the second special symbol memory update process will be described in order.

  Step S40: The main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter to check whether or not the working memory number is less than the maximum value (for example, 4). Similarly to the above, the second special symbol actuated memory number counter represents the number (number of sets) of jackpot determination random numbers and jackpot symbol random numbers stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. At this time, if the value of the second special symbol operation memory number counter reaches the maximum value (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 12). On the other hand, if the value of the second special symbol operation memory number counter is still less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S41 and thereafter.

  Step S41: The main control CPU 72 increments the second special symbol working memory number by one (increments the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter). Similarly to the previous step S31 (FIG. 13), the lighting state of the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is controlled by the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11) based on the counter value added here. Will be.

  Step S42: The main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot determination random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (acquisition of second lottery element, lottery element acquisition means). The method for acquiring the random number value is the same as step S32 (FIG. 13) described above.

  Step S43: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The method for acquiring the random value is the same as that in step S33 (FIG. 13) described above.

  Step S44: The main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires a reach determination random number and a variation pattern determination random number regarding the variation condition of the second special symbol from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76. Acquisition of these random values is also performed in the same manner as step S34 (FIG. 13) described above.

  Step S45: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot determination random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach determination random number and variation pattern determination random number together to the random number storage area used in common in the first special symbol and the second special symbol, These random numbers are stored as a set in an empty section in the area. The storage method is the same as step S35 (FIG. 13) described above.

  Step S45a: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game management state (internal state) is a big hit. If it is not a big hit (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S46 and S47. Conversely, if it is a big hit (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips steps S46 and S47 and proceeds to step S48. The reason why this determination is made in the present embodiment is that the pre-reading effect is not performed during the big hit.

  Step S46: When it is other than big hit (step S45a: No), next, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect determination process at the time of acquisition for the second special symbol. This process determines the result of the internal lottery in advance (before the start of the change) based on the big hit determination random number and the big hit symbol random number of the second special symbol obtained in the previous steps S42 to S44, respectively, It is for judging. Here, in the previous step S45a, it is determined whether or not the big hit is made, except for the big hit, the result of the internal lottery can be determined in advance for the second special symbol, and the result can be used for the prefetching effect. Because. The specific processing contents will be described later.

  Step S47: After returning from the effect determination process at the time of acquisition, the main control CPU 72 sets the upper byte (for example, “B9H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command. This high-order byte data describes that the command type is “for special figure destination determination effect relating to the second special symbol”. Similarly, since the lower byte of the special figure destination determination effect command is set in the previous effect determination processing at the time of acquisition (step S46), for example, one word is synthesized by combining the upper byte with the lower byte. A long command will be generated.

  Step S48: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command for increasing the number of working memories with respect to the second special symbol. Here, a one-word-length production command in which the increased number of working memories (for example, “01H” to “04H”) is added to the lower byte with respect to the preceding value (for example, “BCH”) representing the command type. Is generated. Similarly, for the second special symbol, the second place of the lower byte is set to “0” by default to indicate that the value is “a result of an increase in the number of working memories (change information)”. it can. The preceding value “BCH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is an operating memory number command for the second special symbol.

  Step S49: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output setting process for the second special symbol. As a result, preparation for transmitting a special figure destination determination effect command, an effect command for increasing the number of operating memories, a start opening winning sound control command, and the like regarding the second special symbol to the effect control device 24 is performed (memory number notifying means). . When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 12).

[Acquisition process during acquisition]
FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of an acquisition effect determination process. The main control CPU 72 executes this acquisition effect determination process in the first special symbol memory update process and the second special symbol memory update process (step S37 in FIG. 13 and step S46 in FIG. 14) (predetermined determination). Execution means). As described above, this processing is executed for each of the first special symbol (when winning the right start winning opening 26) and the second special symbol (when winning the variable start winning device 28). Therefore, the following description may correspond to a process related to the first special symbol and a process related to the second special symbol. Hereinafter, the contents of the processing will be described along each procedure.

  Step S50: The main control CPU 72 sets the lower byte (for example, “00H”) of the special figure destination determination effect command (point determination information). The byte data set here represents the standard value of the command (at the time of loss).

  Step S52: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot determination random number as the first determination random value. The random numbers to be loaded here are those stored in the RAM 76 in the first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 14). .

  Step S54: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the loaded random number is outside the range of the winning value (here, the lower limit value or less). Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sets a comparison value (lower limit value) in the A register, and subtracts the loaded random number value from this comparison value. The comparison value (lower limit value) is defined in advance according to the winning probability of the internal lottery in the pachinko machine 1. Next, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the calculation result is 0 or a positive value from the value of the flag register, for example. As a result, if the loaded random number is outside the range of the winning value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S80.

  Step S80: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a variation pattern information preliminary determination process at the time of deviation (variation pattern preliminary determination means, destination determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates the variation pattern destination determination command described above for the variation time at the time of disconnection. In the variation pattern destination determination command generated here, prior determination information regarding the variation time (or variation pattern number) particularly when the “time reduction function” is activated is reflected. For example, if the current state is when the “time reduction function” is activated, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the “out-of-reach fluctuation fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)” based on the loaded reach determination random number. Judge whether there is. As a result, when the fluctuation time corresponds to “outlier reach fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to “short-time / non-shortening fluctuation time”. In the case of reach variation, it is also possible to determine a “reach group (type of reach)” from the reach mode random number and generate a variation pattern destination determination command from the result. On the other hand, when the fluctuation time does not correspond to the “outlier reach fluctuation (non-shortening fluctuation time)”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to the “short / mid-shortening fluctuation time”. Alternatively, if the current state is when the “time reduction function” is inactive (low probability state), the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the “normally out of reach reach fluctuation” based on the loaded reach determination random number. It is determined whether or not. As a result, when the fluctuation time corresponds to “normally deviation reach fluctuation”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to “normally deviation reach fluctuation time”. On the other hand, when the fluctuation time does not correspond to “normally deviation reach fluctuation”, the main control CPU 72 generates a fluctuation pattern destination determination command corresponding to “normal deviation fluctuation time”. Further, the variation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the effect command output setting process (steps S39 and S49) as described above.

  When the above procedure is executed, the main control CPU 72 ends the acquisition-time effect determination process, and returns to the caller's first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 14). On the other hand, if it is determined in the previous step S54 that the loaded random number is not outside the range of the winning value but within the range (step S54: No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S56.

  Step S56: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is set. The probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is set when there is a winning value among the jackpot determination random numbers stored so far, although the fluctuation has not yet started. Specifically, if there is a winning value in the jackpot decision random number stored so far, if the jackpot symbol random number paired with this corresponds to “probability variation”, for example, the probability state schedule flag “A0H” is set. This value represents a flag value for setting as a schedule that a high probability state is to be set in advance determination (prefetching determination) of the jackpot determined random number acquired after the jackpot determined random number. On the other hand, if there is a winning value in the jackpot decision random number stored so far, and the jackpot symbol random number paired with this corresponds to "non-probable (normal) symbol", the probability state For example, “01H” is set in the schedule flag. This value represents a flag value for setting as a schedule that a normal (low) probability state is set in advance determination (prefetching determination) of the big hit determination random number acquired after this big hit determination random number. If the winning value does not exist in the big hit determination random numbers stored so far, the flag value is reset (00H). The value of the probability state schedule flag is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76, for example. Here, an example is given in which the advance hit determination is strictly performed using the “probability state schedule flag”. However, when the advance hit determination is simply performed based on the current probability state, step S56 and the subsequent steps are performed. Step S58, step S60, step S62, step S76, etc. may be omitted.

  If the probability state schedule flag has not yet been set (step S56: No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S66.

  Step S66: In this case, the main control CPU 72 sets the comparison value for the next low probability (normal time) in the A register. The comparative value for low probability is also defined in advance according to the winning probability at the low probability in the pachinko machine 1.

  Step S68: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the “current probability state flag”. This probability state flag indicates whether or not the current internal state has a high probability (probably changing), and is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76. If the current probability state is a high probability (probably changing), the value “01H” is set as the state flag, and if the current probability state is low (normally), the value of the state flag is reset (“00H”). ").

  Step S70: Then, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the loaded current special symbol probability state flag does not represent a high probability (≠ 01H), and if the result indicates a high probability (No). Next, step S64 is executed.

  Step S64: The main control CPU 72 sets a comparative value for high probability. As a result, the low-probability comparison value set in the previous step S66 is rewritten. The high probability comparison value is defined in advance according to the winning probability at the high probability in the pachinko machine 1.

  As described above, when the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is not yet set and the current internal state is high probability, the comparison value is rewritten for high probability and the next step S72 is performed. Will be executed. On the other hand, when it is confirmed in the previous step S70 that the current probability state flag does not represent a high probability (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips step S64 and executes the next step S72.

  Step S72: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the random number loaded in the previous step S52 is outside the range of the winning value. That is, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the jackpot determination random number value from the comparison value set for each state. Similarly, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the calculation result is a negative value (<0) from the value of the flag register, and if the result is that the loaded random number is outside the range of the winning value (Yes). The main control CPU 72 executes the above-described deviation pattern information prior determination process (step S80). On the other hand, if the loaded random number is not outside the range of the winning value but is within the range (No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S74.

  Step S74: The main control CPU 72 executes a jackpot symbol type determination process. This process is for determining the big hit type (winning type) at that time based on the big hit symbol random number paired with the big hit decision random number. For example, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot symbol random number for each symbol stored in the first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 14). Then, the calculation using the comparison value is executed in the same manner as in step S54 described above, and it is determined from the result whether the jackpot type corresponds to “non-probable variation (normal) symbol” or “probability variation symbol”. The main control CPU 72 stores the determination result at this time as a special symbol destination determination value, and proceeds to the next step S76.

  Step S76: The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result. Specifically, when the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 represents “non-probable change (normal) symbol”, the main control CPU 72 sets the value “01H” in the probability state schedule flag. On the other hand, when the special symbol destination determination value represents “probability variation”, the main control CPU 72 sets the value “A0H” in the probability state schedule flag. As a result, in the subsequent processing, it is determined that “flag set has been completed” in step S56.

  Step S78: The main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol destination determination value stored in the previous step S74 as the lower byte of the special symbol destination determination effect command. As the special symbol destination determination value, for example, “01H” is set when it corresponds to “non-probable (normal) symbol”, and “A0H” is set when it corresponds to “probable variation”. In any case, by setting the lower byte data here, the standard lower byte data “00H” set in the previous step S50 is rewritten.

  Step S79: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes big hit hour fluctuation pattern information preliminary determination processing (fluctuation pattern preliminary determination means, destination determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates the above-described variation pattern destination determination command for the variation time at the big hit. In the variation pattern destination determination command generated here, for example, prior determination information related to the reach variation time (or variation pattern number) at the time of big hit is reflected. Further, the variation pattern destination determination command generated here is set in the transmission buffer in the effect command output setting process (steps S39 and S49) as described above.

  The above is the procedure before the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is set (before the internal first hit). On the other hand, when the probability state schedule flag is set through the previous step S76, the following procedure is executed. However, when the previous hit determination is performed only with the current probability state as described above, it is not necessary to execute the following step S56, step S58, step S60, step S62, and step S76.

  Step S56: When the main control CPU 72 confirms that a value has already been set in the probability state schedule flag (Yes), it next executes step S58.

  Step S58: The main control CPU 72 first sets a low probability (normal time) comparison value in the A register.

  Step S60: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads a “probability state schedule flag”. The probability state schedule flag is for setting a probability state in a subsequent determination based on the immediately preceding determination result as described above, and is stored in the flag area of the RAM 76. . If the probability state based on the immediately preceding destination determination result is scheduled to shift to a high probability (probability change), “A0H” is set as the value of the probability state schedule flag as described above. If the probability state based on is scheduled to return to a low probability (normal), “01H” is set as the value of the probability state schedule flag.

  Step S62: Then, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the loaded probability state schedule flag does not represent a high-probability schedule (≠ 01H), and if the result indicates a high-probability schedule (No Then, step S64 is executed to set a comparative value for high probability.

  As described above, when the probability state schedule flag based on the previous determination result is already set and the value is a high probability, the next step S72 and subsequent steps after rewriting the comparison value for the high probability. Will be executed. On the other hand, when it is confirmed in the previous step S62 that the probability state schedule flag does not represent a schedule with a high probability but a schedule with a normal (low) probability (Yes), the main control CPU 72 performs a step. S64 is skipped and the subsequent step S72 and subsequent steps are executed. Thus, in the present embodiment, it is possible to make a prior jackpot determination in consideration of subsequent changes in internal state (normal probability state → high probability state, high probability state → normal probability state) based on the previous determination result. .

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 13) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 14).

[Special design game processing]
Next, the details of the special symbol game process executed in the interrupt management process (FIG. 11) will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the special symbol game process. The special symbol game process includes an execution selection process (step S1000), a special symbol change pre-process (step S2000), a special symbol change process (step S3000), a special symbol stop display process (step S4000), and a variable winning device management process. This is a configuration including a subroutine (program module) group of (Step S5000). First, the basic flow of the special symbol game process will be described along each process.

  Step S1000: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S2000 to S5000) from the “jump table”. For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the special symbol game process as the return destination address in the stack pointer.

  Which process is selected as the next jump destination differs depending on the progress of the process performed so far (special symbol game management status). For example, if the special symbol has not yet started changing display (special symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation pre-processing (step S2000) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the special symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed (special symbol game management status: 01H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation processing (step S3000) as the next jump destination, and the special symbol variation is in progress. If the process has been completed (special symbol game management status: 02H), the special symbol stop displaying process (step S4000) is selected as the next jump destination. In this embodiment, the jump destination address is specified by the “jump table” and the process is selected. However, apart from such a selection method, a “process flag”, a “process selection flag”, or the like is used. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU selects a process to be executed next. In such a programming example, the CPU CALLs each process in a single way, and at the top step, the conditional branch (continuation / return) is performed by referring to the flag one by one. However, in the selection method of this embodiment, the main control is performed. There is no need for the CPU 72 to call each process one by one.

  Step S2000: In the special symbol variation pre-processing, the main control CPU 72 performs an operation to prepare conditions for starting the variation display of the special symbol. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S3000: In the special symbol variation processing, the main control CPU 72 performs drive control of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 while counting the variation timer. Specifically, an ON or OFF drive signal (1 byte data) is output for each segment and dot (0th to 7th) of the 7-segment LED. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the passage of time, whereby a special symbol is displayed in a variable manner.

  Step S4000: In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Similarly, an ON or OFF drive signal is output for each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED. However, the pattern of the drive signal is constant, whereby a special symbol is stopped and displayed.

  Step S5000: The variable winning device management process is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning mode (a mode other than non-winning) in the previous special symbol stop display process. For example, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of a big hit of 15 rounds, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state (a special gaming state advantageous to the player) occurs. During the big hit game, the jump destination is set in the variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the special symbol variation display is not performed. In the variable winning device management process, the large winning opening solenoid 90 is excited for a predetermined time (for example, 29 seconds or until 9 winnings are counted) for a predetermined number of continuous operations (for example, 2 times, 15 times), As a result, the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed in a predetermined pattern (continuous operation of the special electric accessory). In the meantime, by allowing the variable winning device 30 to win the game balls intensively, the player is given an opportunity to collect a lot of prize balls (special game execution means). Note that the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 at the time of the big win is referred to as “round”, and if the total number of continuous operations is 15 times, these may be collectively referred to as “15 rounds”. In the present embodiment, not only 15 round big hits but also multiple types of 2 round big hits are provided as the types of big hits. Also, for the 15 round big hit, there are a plurality of winning types (winning symbols) provided therein.

  Further, when the main control CPU 72 sets the large winning opening opening pattern (number of rounds, number of opening / closing operations per round, opening time, etc.) in the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 performs the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 for one round. Each time it is finished, the value of the round number counter is incremented by one. The value of the round number counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a round number command representing the value of the round number counter. The round number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 11). When the value of the round number counter reaches the set number of continuous operations, the main control CPU 72 ends the big hit game (big player) only for that round.

  When the big hit game ends, the main control CPU 72 changes the state after the big hit game (high probability state, time reduction state) based on the game state flag (probability variation function operation flag, time reduction function operation flag). In the “high probability state”, the probability variation function is activated, and the winning probability in the internal lottery becomes, for example, about ten times higher than usual (specific game state transition means, high probability state transition means, high probability state setting means). In the “time shortening state”, the time shortening function is activated, and the special symbol variation time is set to a normal length (for example, about 2 to 12 seconds; except for the case where reach variation is performed). The state is shifted from the time shortening state to a state where the variation time is shortened (for example, about 1.5 seconds) compared to the non-time shortening state. In addition, while the time reduction function is activated, the special symbol variation time is shortened, and the normal symbol lottery has a high probability (for example, low probability of about 25/251 → about 249/251). The fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened (for example, about 10 seconds when not in operation → about 1 second) and the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is extended (for example, about 0.3 seconds when inactive → 2. Since it is extended to about 5 seconds), and the number of times of opening increases (for example, it increases from 1 to 2 when it is not in operation), the game ball is fired for a long time (all memory of normal symbols is interrupted and variable start) The operation memory of the second special symbol is less likely to be interrupted (so-called electric chew support) as long as it is not interrupted for a period of time that the winning device 28 stops operating). Note that the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state” may be transferred to only one of them in terms of control, or may be transferred in accordance with both of them.

[Multiple winning types]
In the present embodiment, for the above-mentioned “15 round jackpot”, for example, (1) “15 round probability variable jackpot” and (2) “15 round normal (non-probability) jackpot” are provided as a plurality of winning types (this) There may be more). In addition to “15 round big hits”, in this embodiment, for example, (3) “2 rounds probable big hits” and (4) “2 rounds normal big hits” are provided as a plurality of winning types (special winning types) (this) There may be more).

  The winning type corresponds to the type of the first special symbol or the second special symbol that is stopped and displayed at the time of winning. For example, “15 round probability variation jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “15 round probability variation symbol”, and “15 round normal jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “15 round probability symbol”. Further, “2 round probability variation jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “2 round probability variation symbol”, and “2 round normal jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “2 round regular symbol bonus”. For this reason, in the following description, “winning type” is appropriately referred to as “winning symbol”.

[15 round normal design]
First, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “15 round normal symbol” mode in the special symbol stop display processing described above, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state occurs (special game execution). means). In this case, the special winning opening is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the first round, and this continues until the 15th round. For this reason, the “15-round normal symbol” jackpot game gives the player 15 balls (prize balls) for the round. Note that when a predetermined number of times (for example, 9 times = 9 game balls) is generated within one round, the special winning opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. In this case, since the “probability changing function” is not activated, the privilege to shift to the “high probability state” is not given to the player. However, even if the “time reduction function” is inactive in the previous game, by operating the “time reduction function” after the end of the big hit game, there is a privilege to shift to the “variable time reduction state”. It is given to the player.

[15 round probability variation pattern]
Alternatively, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “15-round probability variation symbol” mode in the previous special symbol stop display process, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state occurs (special game executing means) ). In this case, the special winning opening is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the first round, and this continues until the 15th round. Each of these “15 round probable symbols” jackpot games will also give the player 15 balls (prize balls) for 15 rounds. Further, when a predetermined number of times (for example, 9 times = 9 game balls) is generated within one round, the big winning opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. Then, for example, by operating the “probability changing function” after the big hit game is finished, a privilege to shift to the “high probability state” is given to the player as a result. Also, in this case, even if the “time reduction function” is inactive in the previous game, by operating the “time reduction function” after the big hit game is finished, the “variable time reduction state” is also achieved. A privilege to be transferred is given to the player.

[2-round probability variable design]
Alternatively, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of “2 round probability variation” in the previous special symbol stop display process, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the short-term jackpot gaming state occurs (special Game execution means). However, since the 2-round jackpot game ends in an extremely short time compared to the 15-round jackpot game, there is almost no winning in the big winning opening. Therefore, the big hit game of “2 round probability variation design” is completed within a short period of time without giving a substantial play (prize ball) to the player. Instead, if the winning type corresponds to “2 round probability variation symbol”, for example, the “probability variation function” is activated after the jackpot game is ended, and as a result, the privilege of shifting to the “high probability state” Granted to a person. Such a “two-round probability variation pattern” gives the player the impression that a “high probability state” suddenly occurs without going through a clear big hit game.

  In any case, if the winning symbol falls under either of the above “15-round probability variation symbol” or “2-round probability variation symbol”, the player is given a privilege to shift the internal state to the “high probability state” after the big hit game ends. Is granted. In addition, if the internal lottery is won in the “high probability state” and the winning symbol at that time corresponds to either “15 round probability variation symbol” or “2 round probability variation symbol”, the “high probability state” will be maintained even after the jackpot game ends. Is continued (resumed). On the other hand, if the internal lottery is won in the “high probability state” and the above “15 round normal symbol” is met, the internal state returns to the normal probability state (low probability state) after the big hit game is over. Needless to say, if the internal lottery is won in the normal probability state and it falls under “15 round normal symbol”, the internal state is maintained in the normal probability state even after the big hit game ends.

[2 round normal design]
Alternatively, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “two-round normal symbol” mode in the special symbol stop display process, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the short-term big hit gaming state occurs (special). Game execution means). However, since the 2-round jackpot game ends in an extremely short time compared to the 15-round jackpot game, there is almost no winning in the big winning opening. Therefore, the “two-round normal symbol” jackpot game is completed within a short period of time without giving a substantial play (prize ball) to the player. In addition, when the winning type corresponds to “two round normal symbol”, neither the “probability changing function” nor the “time shortening function” is activated after the big hit game ends. As a result, if the state before the big hit is the “high probability state”, the state is shifted to the “low probability state”, and if the state before the big hit is the “low probability state”, the “low probability state” is maintained. Is done. Such a “two-round normal symbol” has the significance of terminating the “high probability state”.

[Small hits]
In the present embodiment, small wins are provided as winning types other than non-winning. When winning a small winning game, a small winning game is performed separately from the big winning game, and the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed (special game executing means). That is, when the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit state in the special symbol stop display process, the small hit game (the variable winning device 30 is activated in the normal probability state or the high probability state). (Game) is executed (in this embodiment, no small hit is set for the second special symbol). In such a small winning game, the variable winning device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, twice), but hardly wins in the big winning opening as in the two-round big winning game. In addition, even if the small hit game ends, the “probability change function” does not operate, and the “time reduction function” does not operate, so it goes to the “high probability state” or “time reduction state”. The privilege to be transferred is not granted (it is not a prerequisite for that). Also, even if you win a small hit in the “high probability state”, the “high probability state” will not end after the game of that small hit, and even if you win a small hit in the “time reduction state” The “time reduction state” does not end after the end of the small hit game (except when the upper limit is reached).

[Special symbol change pre-treatment]
FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special symbol variation pre-processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S2100: First, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the first special symbol working memory number or the second special symbol working memory number remains (greater than 0). This confirmation can be made with reference to the value of the working memory number counter stored in the RAM 76. When the number of working memories of both the first special symbol and the second special symbol is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 executes a demonstration setting process in step S2500.

  Step S2500: In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates a demonstration effect command. The demonstration effect command is output to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 11). When the demo setting process is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. When returning, it returns to the end address as described above (and so on).

  On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter of either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is greater than 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2200.

  Step S2200: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol storage area shift process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 reads the lottery random numbers (big hit decision random number, big hit symbol random number) stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76 in the order of acquisition. At this time, if random numbers are stored in two or more sections, the main control CPU 72 reads and erases (consumes) the random numbers in order from the first section, and then moves (shifts) the remaining random numbers one by one to the previous section. ) The read random number is stored, for example, in another temporary storage area. Each random number stored in the temporary storage area is used for internal lottery in the next jackpot determination process. In the present embodiment, random numbers are read in the order stored (acquired) in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. Further, in this process, the main control CPU 72 subtracts one value of the working memory number counter (the one of the first special symbol or the second special symbol which has been subjected to the random number shift) stored in the RAM 76, and after the subtraction Is set to “Number of working memories at start of change”. Thereby, the display mode of the number stored by the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a or the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a changes (decreases by 1) in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11). . When the procedure so far is finished, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2300.

  Step S2300: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit determination process (internal lottery). In this process, the main control CPU 72 first sets a range of the big hit value and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (lottery execution means). The range of the jackpot value set at this time is different between the normal probability state and the high probability state (when the probability variation function is activated). In the high probability state, the range of the jackpot value is expanded to about 10 times that of the normal probability state. The If the random value read at this time is included in the range of the big hit value, the main control CPU 72 sets the big hit flag (01H), and then proceeds to step S2400.

  When the above big hit flag is not set, the main control CPU 72 sets the range of the small hit value next in the same big hit determination process, and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (lottery execution). means). The “small hit” here is other than non-winning (out of), but is different from “big hit”. That is, “big hit” generates an opportunity (game milestone) to shift to the above “high probability state” or “time reduction state”, but “small hit” does not generate such an opportunity. However, “small hit” is positioned as satisfying the condition for operating the variable winning device 30 as in the case of “big hit”. The range of the small hit value set at this time may be different between the normal probability state and the high probability state (when the probability variation function is activated), or may be the same. In any case, if the read random number value is included in the range of the small hit value, the main control CPU 72 sets the small hit flag, and then proceeds to step S2400. As described above, in the present embodiment, as the hit range corresponding to other than the non-winning, the range of the big hit value and the small hit value is defined in advance in the program. Each of them may be written in the ROM 74, read out, and the big hit determination may be performed while comparing with the random value.

  Step S2400: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) is set for the big hit flag in the previous big hit determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the jackpot flag (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2402.

  Step S2402: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) is set in the small hit flag in the previous big hit determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the small hit flag (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2404. The main control CPU 72 may determine the big hit (for example, 01H is set) or the small hit (for example, 0AH is set) according to the value of the common hit flag without separately preparing the big hit flag and the small hit flag.

  Step S2404: The main control CPU 72 executes an off-time stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets stop symbol number data at the time of disconnection by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of loss) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. These commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 11).

  In this embodiment, since the 7-segment LED is used for the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35, for example, the display mode of the stop symbol at the time of disconnection is always set to one segment (the central bar). It is possible to fix the stop symbol number data to one value (for example, 64H) by keeping only the “−”) lighting display. In this case, the storage capacity used in the program can be reduced, the processing load on the main control CPU 72 can be reduced, and the processing speed can be improved.

  Step S2405: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a deviation variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the fluctuation pattern number at the time of deviation for the special symbol (fluctuation pattern determination means, fluctuation time determination means). The variation pattern number is used to distinguish the variation display type (pattern) of the special symbol or to correspond to the variation time required for the variation display. Since the fluctuation time at the time of loss differs depending on whether or not it is the above “time reduction state”, in this process, the main control CPU 72 loads the gaming state flag and the current state is “time reduction state”. Check if it exists. In the “time shortening state”, the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection is basically set to a shortened time (for example, about 1.5 seconds), except when the reach fluctuation is performed. Even if not in the “time shortening state”, the fluctuation time at the time of losing is, for example, the “variable display start operation memory number (0-3)” set in step S2200 or the first special It may be shortened based on the total number of working memories of the symbol and the second special symbol. Note that the symbol stop display time at the time of disconnection is constant (for example, about 0.5 seconds) regardless of the variation pattern. The first main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined variation time (at the time of disconnection) in the variation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of disconnection in the stop symbol display timer.

  In the present embodiment, when the result of the internal lottery is a non-winning result, for example, a “reach effect” is generated and the control is performed so that the “reach effect” is not generated. It is said. The “variation pattern selection table at the time of loss” preliminarily defines variation patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of effects such as “non-reach effect” and “reach effect”. One of the fluctuation patterns is selected from the inside. The reach production includes various reach production such as normal reach production, long reach production, super reach production, and the like.

[Example of variation pattern selection table for loss]
FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of the deviation variation pattern selection table.
This selection table is a table to be used at the time of a loss (when it corresponds to non-winning) (variation pattern defining means, varying time defining means). In addition, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. “1” to “8” of “variation pattern number” are assigned to each “comparison value”.

  Fluctuation pattern numbers “1” to “5” correspond to fluctuation patterns that are out of reach without performing a reach effect, and fluctuation pattern numbers “6” to “8” are fluctuation patterns that are out of reach after reaching. It corresponds. Among these, the fluctuation pattern 6 (fluctuation pattern number “6”) corresponds to a fluctuation pattern that becomes a deviation after the normal reach effect, for example. The variation pattern 7 (variation pattern number “7”) corresponds to, for example, a variation pattern that is lost after a long reach effect. Further, the fluctuation pattern 8 (fluctuation pattern number “8”) corresponds to a fluctuation pattern that is lost after, for example, a super reach effect (specific reach effect). Note that such a variation pattern selection table is also used in the prior determination process of the effect determination process at the time of acquisition (FIG. 15) (the same applies to the big hit).

  The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the comparison value. A variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the variation pattern determination random value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201 "is compared with the random value. In this case, since the random value is equal to or smaller than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “2” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

[Refer to Fig. 17: Special symbol change pre-processing]
The above steps S2404 and S2405 are control procedures when the big hit determination result is out of place (in the case other than non-winning), but the determination result is a big hit (step S2400: Yes) or a small hit (step S2402: Yes). The main control CPU 72 executes the following procedure. First, the case of jackpot will be described.

  Step S2410: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit stop symbol determination process (winning type determination means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol (stop symbol number at the time of jackpot) for each special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) based on the jackpot symbol random number. The relationship between the jackpot symbol random number value and the type of winning symbol is defined in advance in the special symbol determination data table (winning type defining means). For this reason, the main control CPU 72 can determine the type of winning symbol based on the big hit symbol random number from the stored contents by referring to the big hit symbol stop selection table in the big hit symbol stop determination process.

[Winning pattern at the time of big hit]
In the present embodiment, there are four types of winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a big hit. The four types are “2-round normal symbol”, “2-round probability variable symbol”, “15 round normal symbol”, and “15 round probability variable symbol”. Note that each of the four types of winning symbols may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, in the case of “15 round probability variation symbol”, “15 round probability variation symbol a”, “15 round probability variation symbol b”, “15 round probability variation symbol c”, and so on.

In the present embodiment, the first special symbol and the second special symbol are different in the type of winning symbol selected at the time of the big winning of the internal lottery corresponding to each. That is, at the time of the big winning of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol, any one of “2 round normal symbol”, “2 round probability variable symbol”, “15 round normal symbol”, and “15 round probability variable symbol” is selected.
On the other hand, at the time of the big winning of the internal lottery corresponding to the second special symbol, “15 round normal symbol” or “15 round probability variation symbol” is selected. For this reason, the main control CPU 72 distinguishes the objects that can be selected as the winning symbol depending on whether the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

[First Special Symbol Big Stop Stop Symbol Selection Table]
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a configuration column of the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. When the result of the big jackpot corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 determines the winning symbol type with reference to the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table shown in FIG.

  In the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the distribution value by winning symbol, and each distribution value “10”, “20”, “50” is set to 100. Corresponds to the ratio of cases. In the second column from the left, “2-round normal symbol”, “2-round probability variation symbol”, “15 round normal symbol”, and “15 round probability variation symbol” corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the big hit corresponding to the first special symbol, the ratio of “2 round normal symbol” is 10/100 (= 10%), and the rate of “2 round probability variation symbol” is 100 minutes. 20 (= 20%). Further, the ratio of selecting “15 round normal symbol” is 20/100 (= 20%), and the ratio of selecting “15 round probability variable symbol” is 50/100 (= 50%). The size of each distribution value corresponds to the selection ratio for each winning symbol using a jackpot symbol random number. Therefore, the selection ratio of the probability variation symbol for the first special symbol as a whole is 70%.

  In any case, if the current jackpot result corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the jackpot symbol random number, and the selection ratio shown in the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table To select the winning symbol selectively. Further, in the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as a stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. The stop symbol command is described by, for example, a combination of MODE value-EVENT value, and among these, the MODE value “B1H” of the upper byte is selected when the winning symbol of this time is the big hit of the first special symbol. Represents. Further, the EVENT values “00H”, “01H”, “02H”, and “03H” in the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding in the selection table. Therefore, for example, if the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol, and “2 round normal symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command at the time of winning is described as “B1H00H” It will be.

  As described above, when the selected symbol is selected from the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 determines a big hit stop symbol number for the first special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

[2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a configuration column of the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. When the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 determines the winning symbol type with reference to the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table shown in FIG.

  Also in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the distribution value by winning symbol, and each of the distribution values “30” and “70” is the case where the denominator is 100. It corresponds to the ratio. Similarly, in the second column from the left, “2 round normal symbol”, “2 round probability variable symbol”, “15 round normal symbol”, and “15 round probability variable symbol” corresponding to each distribution value are shown. . That is, at the big hit corresponding to the second special symbol, the ratio of “15 round normal symbol” is 30/100 (= 30%), and the proportion of “15 round probability variation symbol” is selected. It is 70/100 (= 70%). Therefore, also for the second special symbol, the selection ratio of the probability variation symbol as a whole is 70%. However, in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the distribution values for “2-round normal symbol” and “2-round probability variation symbol” are not set.

  When the result of this big hit corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the big hit symbol random number, and selects the winning symbol with the selection ratio shown in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table To decide. Similarly, in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as the stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. Again, the stop symbol command is described by the combination of the above MODE value-EVENT value. Among these, the MODE value “B2H” of the upper byte is the one selected when the winning symbol of the second special symbol is the current winning symbol. It represents that. Also, the EVENT values “02H” and “03H” in the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding to the selection table. For this reason, for example, if the result of this jackpot corresponds to the second special symbol, and “15 round normal symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command will be described as “B2H02H”. .

  As described above, when the selected symbol is selected from the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 determines a big hit stop symbol number for the second special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

  Note that the selected winning symbols are different between the first special symbol and the second special symbol as described above, for example, for the following reason. That is, when shifting to the “high probability state” or “time shortening state”, the variable start winning device 28 operates more frequently than in the normal time (when the time shortening function is not activated), so the second special symbol The working memory of is difficult to break. And if you exclude “2 round jackpots” from the winning type for the second special symbol, it will be difficult to draw “2 round jackpots” especially in the “high probability state” and “time saving state”. There is an advantage that there is little inconvenience.

[Refer to Fig. 17: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2412: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit hour variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200. The main control CPU 72 sets the determined variation time value in the variation timer, and sets the stop display time value in the stop symbol display timer. In general, in the case of big hit reach fluctuation, a fluctuation time longer than that at the time of loss is determined.

  In the present embodiment, when the result of the internal lottery corresponds to 15 rounds big hit (15 round normal big hit or 15 rounds probable big hit), for example, a “reach effect” is generated to produce a big hit. . In the “15th round big hit winning variation pattern selection table”, a plurality of types of variation patterns corresponding to “reach production” are defined. A pattern will be selected. The reach production includes various reach production such as normal reach production, long reach production, super reach production, and the like.

[Example of the variation pattern selection table when winning 15 rounds big hit]
FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of a variation pattern selection table at the time of winning 15 rounds.
This selection table is a table used when a 15-round big hit is won (a variation pattern defining unit, a variation time defining unit). In addition, this selection table has a structure in which, for example, “comparison value” and “variation pattern number” are stored as a set of 1 byte each in order from the head address. The “comparison value” includes, for example, eight different values “101”, “201”, “211”, “221”, “231”, “241”, “251”, “255 (FFH)”. “13” to “20” of “variation pattern number” are assigned to each “comparison value”.

  The variation pattern numbers “13” to “20” all correspond to the variation pattern that is a hit when the reach effect is performed. Among these, the variation patterns 13 to 17 (variation pattern numbers “13” to “17”) correspond to, for example, the variation patterns that are hit after the super reach effect. Further, the variation patterns 18 and 19 (variation pattern numbers “18” and “19”) correspond to, for example, the variation pattern that is a hit after the long reach effect. Furthermore, the fluctuation pattern 20 (fluctuation pattern number “20”) corresponds to the fluctuation pattern that is a hit after the normal reach effect, for example.

  The main control CPU 72 sequentially compares the obtained variation pattern determination random value with the “comparison value” in the variation pattern selection table, and if the random value is equal to or less than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 corresponds to the comparison value. A variation pattern number is selected (variation pattern determination means). For example, if the variation pattern determination random value at that time is “190”, the main control CPU 72 determines that the random value exceeds the comparison value when compared with the first comparison value “101”. 201 "is compared with the random value. In this case, since the random value is equal to or smaller than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects “14” as the corresponding variation pattern number.

[Refer to Fig. 17: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2414: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit other setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the game state flag is selected regardless of whether the winning symbol type (big hit stop symbol number) determined in the previous step S2410 is “2 round probability variation symbol” or “15 round probability variation symbol”. As a result, the value (01H) of the probability variation function activation flag is set in the flag area of the RAM 76 (high probability state transition means, probability variation function activation means). Further, the main control CPU 72 resets the value of the probability variation function operation flag as the gaming state flag when the type of winning symbol determined in the previous step S2410 is “15 round normal symbol” or “2 round normal symbol”. (Low probability state setting means, low probability state transition means).

  In addition, the main control CPU 72 selects all winning symbols whose types of winning symbols (hit stop symbol number) determined in the previous step S2410 are “15 round normal symbol”, “15 round probability variation symbol”, and “2 round probability variation symbol”. The main control CPU 72 sets the time shortening function operation flag value (01H) as a game state flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 (time shortening state transition means, time shortening function operation means). However, the “two-round probability variation symbol” is limited to the case where the internal state is a high probability state (electrical chew support will be performed for the two-round probability variation winning in the so-called latent probability variation state).

  In the process of step S2414, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (big hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the big hit time stop symbol number. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a lottery result command (at the time of the big hit) together with the stop symbol command (at the time of the big hit). The stop symbol command and the lottery result command are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

Next, processing for small hits will be described.
Step S2407: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of winning symbol at the time of small hit (stop symbol number at small hit) based on the big hit symbol random number. Similarly, the relationship between the big winning symbol random number value and the type of winning symbol at the time of small hitting is preliminarily defined in the special symbol selection table at small hitting (winning type defining means). In this embodiment, in order to reduce the load on the main control CPU 72, the winning symbol at the time of the small hit is determined using the big hit symbol random number, but a dedicated random number may be used separately.

[Winning pattern for small hits]
In the present embodiment, the winning symbol at the time of small hitting is only one type of “twice open small hitting symbol”. However, other types such as “one time opening small hit symbol” and “three times opening small hit symbol” may be prepared. As described above, “small hit” as a result of the internal lottery is not an opportunity for the subsequent state to change to “high probability state” or “time reduction state”, and thus is essential for this type of pachinko machine. A “one-time small hit symbol” can be provided without being bound by the definition of “two rounds (two times open) or more”.

  Step S2408: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hit hour variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200 (variation pattern determination means, variation time determination means). ). Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the determined variation time value in the variation timer, and sets the stop display time value in the stop symbol display timer. In the present embodiment, in the case of a small hit, a variation pattern equivalent to that at the time of variation is selected.

  Step S2409: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hitting and other setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (small hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the stop symbol number at the time of small hit. In addition, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of a small hit) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The stop symbol command and the lottery result command are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step S2415: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes special symbol variation start processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects the fluctuation pattern data based on the fluctuation pattern number (out of time / hit). At the same time, the main control CPU 72 sets a special symbol variation start flag in the flag area of the RAM 76. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a change start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. This variation start command is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000) as the next jump destination and returns to the special symbol game process.

[Fig. 16: Special symbol change processing, special symbol stop display processing]
In the special symbol fluctuation processing, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the fluctuation timer from the register to the timer counter as described above, and then the timer according to the passage of time (clock pulse count number or interrupt counter value). Decrement the counter value. The main control CPU 72 controls the special symbol variation display as described above until the value becomes 0 while referring to the value of the timer counter. When the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display in-progress process (step S4000) as the next jump destination.

  In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the special symbol stop display based on the stop symbol determined in the stop symbol determination process (steps S2404, S2407, and S2410 in FIG. 17). The main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The symbol stop command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the stop symbol is displayed for a predetermined time in the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 deletes the symbol changing flag.

[Special symbol memory area shift processing]
FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol storage area shift process. When the value of the operation memory counter corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol is larger than “0” in the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing (step S2100: Yes in FIG. 17), the main control CPU 72 Executes this special symbol storage area shift process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S2210: The main control CPU 72 refers to the random number storage area and confirms whether or not the oldest memory corresponds to the first special symbol. This confirmation can be realized by confirming whether or not a random number corresponding to the first special symbol is stored in the first section of the random number storage area of the RAM 76. At this time, if it is confirmed that the oldest memory does not correspond to the first special symbol (No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S2212.

  Step S2211: The main control CPU 72 designates the second special symbol as the target special symbol. This designation is performed, for example, by setting “02H” as the target symbol designation value.

  Step S2214: On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the oldest memory corresponds to the first special symbol (Step S2210: Yes), the main control CPU 72 designates the first special symbol as the target special symbol. The designation in this case is performed, for example, by setting “01H” as the target symbol designation value.

  Step S2216: The main control CPU 72 shifts the random number storage area of the RAM 76. The details of the specific processing are as already described in the previous special symbol change pre-processing.

  Step S2218: The main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the operation memory counter for the target special symbol designated in either step S2212 or step S2214. For example, if the current target special symbol is the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 subtracts (-1) the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol.

  Step S2220: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets “the number of operation memories at the start of fluctuation” from the value of the operation memory counter after the subtraction. Here, for both the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the value of the operation memory counter may be added and the “number of operation memories at the start of change” may be set.

Step S2222: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the target special symbol is the second special symbol.
Step S2224: When the target special symbol is the second special symbol (step S2222: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command for reducing the number of working memories with respect to the second special symbol. The effect command set here is also generated as a one-word-length command, but its structure is in contrast to the above-described “effect command when increasing the number of working memories”. That is, the production command at the time when the number of working memories decreases is lower than the value of lower bytes (for example, “00H” to “03H” that represents the number of working memories after reduction with respect to the preceding value (for example, “BCH”) of the upper bytes representing the command type )) And an additional value (for example, “10H”) meaning “decrease in the number of working memories accompanying consumption” is further added (logical sum) to the lower byte value. Therefore, for the lower byte, the second value becomes “1” by ORing the addition value “10H”, and this value indicates “the result (change information) due to the decrease in the number of working memories”. It will be a thing. In other words, if the lower byte of the command is “13H”, it means that the number of working memories up to the previous time “4” (command notation is “14H”) is reduced by one, so that the number of working memories this time is “3” (command The notation is “13H”). Similarly, if the lower byte is “12H” to “10H”, it means that the number of working memories “3” to “1” up to the previous time (command notation is “13H” to “11H”) is decreased by one respectively. This indicates that the current operation memory number is “2” to “0” (command notation is “12H” to “10H”). The preceding value “BCH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is the working memory number command for the second special symbol.

  Step S2226: When the current target special symbol is the first special symbol (step S2222: No), the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command for reducing the number of working memories with respect to the first special symbol. The command in this case is the same as the above except that the preceding value is a value (for example, “BBH”) indicating that the previous value is the working memory number command for the first special symbol.

Step S2228: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output process. This process is for transmitting the production command for reducing the number of working memories set in the previous step S2224 or step S2226 to the production control device 124 (memory number notification means).
When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 17).

[Special symbol stop display processing]
Next, FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol stop display process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S4100: The main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the stop symbol display timer (decrements by the interrupt period).

  Step S4200: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the stop display time has ended based on the value of the stop symbol display timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has not yet ended (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process, and jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 16) and repeatedly executes the special symbol stop display process in the next interrupt cycle.

  On the other hand, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has ended (Yes). In this case, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4250.

  Step S4250: The main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command. The symbol stop command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. Further, the main control CPU 72 deletes the symbol changing flag here.

  Step S4300: Here, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set. When the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4350.

[When winning]
Step S4350: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination of the jump table to “variable winning device management process”.
Step S4400: The main control CPU 72 sets “start of big role (during big hit game)” as an internal state flag for control. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command representing a big hit. The state command representing the big hit is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step S4500: The main control CPU 72 generates a continuous operation number command. The continuous operation number command can be generated based on the type of jackpot symbol (stop symbol number) determined in the previous jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 17). For example, if the type of jackpot symbol is any one of “15 round probability variation symbols”, the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing “15 rounds”. In the case of “2-round probability variation symbol”, the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing “2 rounds”. The generated continuous operation number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  When the above procedure is completed at the time of the big hit, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process.

[When not winning]
On the other hand, the following procedure is executed in cases other than the big hit.
That is, if the main control CPU 72 determines in step S4300 that the value of the big hit flag (01H) is not set (No), it next executes step S4600.

  Step S4600: The main control CPU 72 next checks whether or not the value of the small hit flag (01H) is set. If the value of the small hit flag (01H) is not set and is simply a deviation (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4602.

  Step S4602: The main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol variation pre-processing address as the jump destination address of the jump table.

  Step S4605: On the other hand, if the value (01H) of the small hit flag is set (step S4600: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the address of the variable winning device management process as the jump destination address of the jump table.

  Step S4606: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets “small hit start (medium hit)” as an internal state flag for control. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command indicating that a small hit is being made. The state command representing the small hit is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step 4610: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the count-down counter. In the “counting counter”, the counter values are set in the probability variation count area and the time reduction count area of the RAM 76 in the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state”. In this case, “number of times cut” is used, but the value of the number of times counter in the “high probability state” can be set to an extremely large value (for example, 10,000 times or more). By setting such an enormous value, it is possible to probabilistically guarantee that the “high probability state” will continue until the next winning is substantially obtained. In addition, when there is only a single “time reduction state” instead of the “high probability state”, the count-off counter is set to a standard numerical value (for example, 100 times).

  Step S4620: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the loaded counter value is zero. At this time, if the count cut counter value is already 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, when the count cut counter value is not 0 (No), after generating the count cut counter value command, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4630.

Step S4630: The main control CPU 72 decrements (subtracts 1) the count-down counter value.
Step S4640: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the subtraction result is not zero. As a result of the subtraction, when the value of the number cut counter is not 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, if the value of the number cut counter becomes 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S4650.

  Step S4650: Here, the main control CPU 72 resets a flag at the time of turning off the number of times function. The probability variable function operation flag or the time shortening function operation flag is reset, but since the value of the count counter is not zero in the “high probability state” as described above, it is practical. It is the time reduction function activation flag that is reset above. As a result, the time reduction state ends after the special symbol stop display. When the above procedure is completed, the process returns to the special symbol game process.

[Display output management processing]
Next, FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 11) executed in the interrupt management process. The display output management process includes a special symbol display setting process (step S1200), a normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), a state display setting process (step S1220), an operation memory display setting process (step S1230), and a continuous operation number display setting. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S1240).

  Among these, the special symbol display setting process (step S1200), the normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), and the operation memory display setting process (step S1230) are the first special symbol display device 34, the second, as already described. Generates drive signals to be applied to the LEDs of the special symbol display device 35, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol operation memory number display lamp 35a. And output processing.

  The state display setting process (step S1220) and the continuous operation number display setting process (step S1240) are processes for generating and outputting a drive signal to be applied to each LED of the gaming state display device 38. First, in the state display setting process, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the probability variation state display lamp 38c and the time reduction state display lamp 38d, respectively, according to the value of the probability variation function activation flag or the time reduction function activation flag. For example, if the value (01H) is set in the probability variation function operation flag when the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the probability variation state display lamp 38c. Note that the probability variation state display lamp 38c is switched to non-display (turned off) even if the probability variation function operation flag is set when the variation display of the special symbol is performed thereafter. On the other hand, if the value (01H) is set in the time reduction function operation flag, the main control CPU 72 turns on the lighting signal for the LED corresponding to the time reduction state display lamp 38d regardless of whether or not the power is turned on. Is output.

  The main control CPU 72 controls lighting of the big hit type display lamps 38a and 38b in the continuous operation number display setting process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal for one of the big hit type display lamps 38a and 38b based on the value of the above-mentioned continuous operation number command. At this time, one of the display lamps 38a and 38b corresponding to the big hit symbol designated by the continuous operation number command is the target of outputting the lighting signal. For example, if the value of the continuous operation number command specifies “15 rounds”, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38b representing “15 rounds (15R)”. If the value of the continuous operation number command specifies “2 rounds”, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38 a representing “2 rounds (2R)”.

[Variable winning device management process]
Next, details of the variable winning device management process will be described. FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating a configuration example of the variable winning device management process. The variable winning device management process includes a gaming process selection process (step S5100), a special winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200), a special winning opening / closing operation process (step S5300), a special winning opening closing process (step S5400), and an end. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S5500).

  Step S5100: In the game process selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S5200 to S5500). That is, the main control CPU 72 selects the program address of the process to be executed next from the jump table as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the variable winning device management process in the stack pointer as the return destination address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the operation (opening / closing operation) of the variable winning device 30 has not started yet, the main control CPU 72 selects the large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the winning opening opening pattern setting process has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the winning opening opening / closing operation process (step S5300) as the next jump destination, and has completed the winning opening opening / closing operation process. Then, the special winning opening closing process (step S5400) is selected as the next jump destination. When the big prize opening / closing operation process and the big prize opening closing process are repeatedly executed over the set number of continuous operations (number of rounds), the main control CPU 72 selects an end process (step S5500) as the next jump destination. . Hereinafter, each process will be described in more detail.

[Big prize opening pattern setting process]
FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special winning opening opening pattern setting process. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times that the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed and the time for each opening at the time of big hit or small hit. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S5202: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the current gaming state is a big game, that is, whether or not the big hit flag value (01H) is set in the flag area of the RAM 76. If the value of the big hit flag is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5204. On the other hand, if the value of the big hit flag is not set (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5212. Note that this procedure may be rewritten to refer to the value of the small hit flag (however, the logic of Yes / No is reversed).

[Procedure for jackpot]
First, the procedure for the big hit is as follows.
Step S5204: The main control CPU 72 executes a design-specific release pattern setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the winning pattern opening pattern (number of times of opening for each round and the time of each opening), the interval time between rounds, and the number of counts in one round (maximum) according to the current winning symbol. Set the number of winnings). The opening pattern for each winning symbol is the same as described in the item “plural winning types” in the special symbol game process (FIG. 16). Further, the interval time between rounds is set to, for example, about 2 seconds for the “2 round symbol” and about several seconds (for example, 2 to 2.5 seconds) for the “15 round symbol”. In addition, the number of counts in one round (maximum number of winnings) is 9 for all winning symbols, for example, but as mentioned above, winnings occur during an extremely short time (about 0.1 seconds). Is very rare (not impossible but extremely difficult).

  Step S5206: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds in the current jackpot game based on the jackpot winning symbol selected in the previous jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 17). Specifically, if the large category “15 round symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to 15 times. If “2 round symbols” is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to two. The number of execution rounds set here is stored in the buffer area of the RAM 76, for example, as a corresponding value on the program (“1” for 2 times, “14” for 15 times).

  Step S5208: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets a big hit opening timer based on the big winning opening opening pattern set in the previous step S5204. The timer value set here is the opening time per operation when the variable winning device 30 is operated. If a value of about 29.0 seconds is set as the value of the big hit release timer, the release time is a sufficient time (for example, a launch control board) that the big winning opening is easily generated during one release. The set 174 is a time during which 10 or more game balls are fired, preferably 6 seconds or more. On the other hand, if the value of the big hit release timer is set to 0.1 seconds, the release time is short (becomes difficult) even if it is not possible to win a big prize opening during one opening. This is a time (for example, a time shorter than 1 second, preferably a time shorter than a game ball firing interval by the firing control board set 174).

  Step S5210: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets a big hit interval timer based on the big winning opening opening pattern set in the previous step S5204. The timer value set here is the waiting time between rounds of big hits.

  Step S5220: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening / closing operation processing, and returns to the variable winning device management processing.

[Procedure for small hits]
Step S5212: On the other hand, in the case of a small hit (step S5202: No), the main control CPU 72 sets a “small hit opening pattern”. In the case of the present embodiment, for the “small hit opening pattern”, for example, an opening pattern of “0.1 second opening” is set for the first time and the second time. Since “small hit” has no concept of “round”, “open pattern” is also expressed as “first open” and “second open”.

  Step S5214: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of times that the special winning opening is opened based on the large winning opening opening pattern set in the previous step S5212, for example, two times. The number of releases set here is stored in a buffer area of the RAM 76, for example.

  Step S5216: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets a small hitting release timer. The timer value set here is the opening time per operation when the variable winning device 30 is operated. In the present embodiment, as described above, 0.1 seconds is set as the value of the small hitting release timer, and during such an opening time, there is hardly any winning in the big winning opening during one opening. It becomes a short time (becomes difficult) (for example, a time shorter than 1 second, preferably a time shorter than the interval between game balls fired by the launching device unit).

  Step S5218: The main control CPU 72 sets a small hitting interval timer. The timer value set here is a waiting time for each time when the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed a plurality of times at the time of a small hit, and this timer value is set to about 2 seconds, for example.

  Step S5220: When the above procedure is completed at the time of the small hit, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening / closing operation processing, and returns to the variable winning device management processing. Then, the main control CPU 72 executes a special winning opening / closing operation process.

[Big prize opening / closing operation processing]
FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special winning opening / closing operation process. This process is mainly for controlling the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along a procedure.

  Step S5302: The main control CPU 72 opens the special winning opening. Specifically, a drive signal to be applied to the special winning opening solenoid 90 is output. Thereby, the variable prize-winning apparatus 30 operates and shifts from the closed state to the open state.

  Step S5304: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an open timer countdown process. In this process, the countdown of the release timer set in the previous winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5208 or step S5216 in FIG. 26) is executed.

  Step S5306: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the opening time has expired. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the release timer after the countdown process is 0 or less. If the value of the release timer is not yet 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5308. Execute.

  Step S5308: The main control CPU 72 executes a winning ball count process. In this process, the number of game balls won in the variable winning device 30 (open winning opening) within the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the count value based on the winning detection signal input from the count switch 84 within the opening time.

  Step S5310: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (9). This predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (upper limit of the number of winning balls) allowed per opening (one round in the big hit, one in the small hit) as described above. If the count has not yet reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, since the jump destination is set to the large winning opening / closing operation process at the present stage, the main control CPU 72 repeatedly executes the procedure of the above steps S5302 to S5310.

  If it is determined in step S5306 that the opening time has expired (Yes), or if it is confirmed in step S5310 that the count has reached a predetermined number (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5312. It should be noted that since the release timer value is set for a short time for both the first hit and the second round release of the “two-round probability variation symbol” at the small hit, the main control CPU 72 normally performs step S5310. In most cases, it is determined in step S5306 that the opening time has ended before confirming that the count number has reached the predetermined number.

  Step S5312: The main control CPU 72 closes the special winning opening. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the special winning opening solenoid 90 is stopped. As a result, the variable winning device 30 returns from the open state to the closed state.

  Step S5314: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes interval standby processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes a countdown of the interval timer set in the above-described special winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5210 or step S5218 in FIG. 26). When the value of the interval timer becomes 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5316.

  Step S5316: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not it is in a big role (during big hit game). If the current game is a big game (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5318. On the other hand, if the current game is a small hit (No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5322.

  Step S5318: The main control CPU 72 increments the value of the opening number counter. Note that the value of the number-of-releases counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example.

  Step S5320: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the incremented number-of-releases counter has reached the number set within the current round. Here, the reason why the “number of times set in the current round” is determined is to deal with an opening pattern of “opening the variable winning device 30 multiple times within one round of big hit”, for example. . In the present embodiment, since such an open pattern is not particularly employed, the “number of times set in the current round” is set once for each round. Therefore, since the counter value reaches the set number of times in one opening / closing operation (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next proceeds to step S5322.

  If a pattern in which a plurality of opening / closing operations are repeated in one round as described above is employed, the counter value has not yet reached the set number of times at the end of one opening (No). In this case, when the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process, the jump destination is set to the big winning opening / closing operation process at the present stage, and thus the procedure from step S5302 to step S5320 is repeatedly executed. As a result, the increment of the number-of-releases counter proceeds in step S5318, and when the counter value reaches the set number of times (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5322.

  Step S5322: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening closing process, and returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, the main control CPU 72 executes a special winning opening closing process.

[Large prize closing process]
FIG. 28 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a special winning opening closing process. This special winning opening closing process is for continuing the operation of the variable winning device 30 or terminating the operation. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along a procedure.

  Step S5401: First, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game is a big game (big hit game), and if it is a big game (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5402.

  Step S5402: The main control CPU 72 increments the round number counter. Thereby, for example, the value of the round number counter is “1” at the stage where the first round ends and the second round is reached.

  Step S5404: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the incremented round number counter value has reached the set number of execution rounds. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value (1-14) of the round number counter after increment, and if the value is less than the set number of execution rounds (1-14 after 1 subtraction) (No) Next, step S5405 is executed.

  Step S5405: The main control CPU 72 generates a round number command from the current round number counter value. This command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process as described above. The effect control device 124 can confirm the current number of rounds based on the received round number command.

  Step S5406: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the big prize opening / closing operation process.

  Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process.

  When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes a big prize opening opening / closing operation process which is the next jump destination in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 25). Then, after execution of the special prize opening / closing operation process, through the execution of the special prize opening closing process, the main control CPU 72 executes the special prize opening closing process again, and repeatedly executes the above steps S5402 to S5408. Thereby, the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 is continuously executed until the actual round number reaches the set execution round number (2 times or 15 times).

  When the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (step S5404: YES), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5410.

  Step S5410, Step S5412: In this case, when the main control CPU 72 resets the round number counter (= 0), it sets the next jump destination to the end process.

  Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process. As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the end process is selected this time.

[Small hit]
On the other hand, in the case of a small hit, the procedure is as follows (special operation execution means).
Step S5411: When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the current game is not playing a major role (step S5401: No), the main control CPU 72 increments the value of the number-of-releases counter.

  Step S5413: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the incremented number-of-releases counter has reached the set number of times of release. The number of times of opening is set in the previous big opening opening pattern setting process (step S5214 in FIG. 26). If the value of the opening number counter has not yet reached the set opening number (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5416.

Step S5416: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the special winning opening / closing operation process.
Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process.

  When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes a big prize opening opening / closing operation process which is the next jump destination in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 25). And after execution of the big prize opening / closing operation process, through the execution of the big prize opening closing process, the main control CPU 72 executes the big prize opening closing process again, and until the number of times of opening reaches the set number of times of opening, Steps S5416 and S5408 are repeatedly executed through steps S5401 to S5413 (No). Thereby, the opening / closing operation of the variable prize device 30 is repeatedly executed until the actual number of times of opening reaches the set number of times of opening (2 times).

  When the actual number of times of opening at the small hit reaches the set number of times of opening (step S5413: Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5414.

  Step S5414, Step S5412: In this case, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the end process when the release counter is reset (= 0).

  Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process. As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the end process is selected this time.

〔End processing〕
FIG. 29 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the end process. This end process is for preparing conditions for ending the operation of the variable prize apparatus 30. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S5502: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set, and if the value of the big hit flag is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5503. To do.

  Step S5503, Step S5504: In this case, the main control CPU 72 resets the big hit flag (00H). As a result, the big hit gaming state ends on the control processing of the main control CPU 72. In addition, the main control CPU 72 deletes “big hit” from the internal state flag and declares the end of the major role as the internal state in the control processing.

Step S5505: The main control CPU 72 deletes the continuous operation number command here.
Step S5506: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value (01H) of the probability variation function operation flag is set. This flag is set in the big hit other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 17) during the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing.

  Step S5508: When the value of the probability variation function operation flag is set (step S5506: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the probability variation number (for example, about 10,000 times). The set value of the probability variation number is stored, for example, in the probability variation counter area of the RAM 76 and becomes the above-described number cut counter value. The probability variation number set here is the upper limit number of times that the variation of the special symbol (internal lottery) is performed in a high probability state in the subsequent games. However, if a huge number of times such as 10,000 is set as described above, there is almost no chance that the non-winning will continue so far (the winning probability at the time of high probability is, for example, 1/39 to 1/39) The degree of probability) will continue until the next winning. On the other hand, when a substantial upper limit is set in the high probability state, the probability variation number is set to a realistic number (for example, about 10 times) (so-called number cut probability change). If the value of the probability variation function activation flag is not set (step S5506: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5508.

  Step S5510: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the time reduction function operation flag (01H) is set. This flag is also set in the big hit other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 17) during the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing.

  Step S5512: If the value of the time reduction function operation flag (variable time reduction function operation flag) is set (step S5510: Yes), the main control CPU 72 determines the number of time reductions (for example, about 100 times or about 10,000 times). Set. The value of the set time reduction count is stored in the time count area of the RAM 76 as described above. The number of times of time reduction set here is the upper limit number of times to shorten the variation time of the special symbol in subsequent games. If the value of the time shortening function activation flag is not set (step S5510: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute step S5512.

  Step S5514: The main control CPU 72 generates a state designation command based on various flags. Specifically, a state designation command representing “normal” is generated as the gaming state when the big hit flag is reset or the big game ends. If the high-probability state function activation flag is set, a state designation command indicating “high probability” is generated as the internal state, and if the time reduction function activation flag is set, the internal state is “reduced time”. A state designation command representing “medium” is generated. These state designation commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  The procedure so far is a big hit, but in the case of a big hit (step S5502: No), the following procedure is executed.

  Steps S5520 and S5522: In the case of a small hit, the main control CPU 72 resets the value of the small hit flag (00H) and deletes “small hit” from the internal state flag. In the case of small hits, the internal condition device does not operate in particular, so such a procedure is merely for the purpose of erasing the flag.

  Step S5516: In any case, after the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the special winning opening opening pattern setting process.

  Step S5518: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 16) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol change pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process.

[Example of production image]
Next, the effect image actually displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 in the pachinko machine 1 will be described with some examples. As described above, when the big hit internal lottery is performed in the pachinko machine 1, the variation pattern (variation time) is determined under the control of the main control CPU 72, and the variation display by the first special symbol and the second special symbol is performed. (Design display means). However, as described above, the first special symbol and the second special symbol itself are lighted and blinked by 7-segment LEDs, so that they have poor appeal. Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1, the variable display effect using the effect symbol is performed as described above.

  The effect designs include, for example, a left effect symbol, a middle effect symbol, and a right effect symbol, which are displayed side by side on the left, middle, and right on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (see FIG. 1). ). Each effect design is a design of a picture card with a character attached together with the numbers “1” to “9”, for example. Among these, for the left effect symbol, a symbol row is arranged in ascending order of “1” to “9”, and for the middle effect symbol and the right effect symbol, the numbers are “9” to “1”. ”Are arranged in descending order. Such a symbol sequence is variably displayed so as to flow (scroll) in the vertical direction in the left region, middle region, and right region on the screen.

  FIG. 30 is a continuous diagram showing an example of the effect image corresponding to the change display and stop display of the special symbol. Here, an example of the change display effect and the stop display effect performed using the effect symbol is shown for the variation of the special symbol at the time of non-winning (out). This variable display effect is performed between the start of the variable display of the special symbol (here, the first special symbol, but may be the second special symbol) and the stop display (including the fixed stop). It corresponds to a series of productions. The stop display effect is an effect that represents that the special symbol is stopped and displayed and the result of the internal lottery at that time is a combination of the effect symbols. Here, before explaining the specific contents of the control processing, the basic flow of the change display effect and stop display effect for each change employed in the present embodiment will be described.

[Before change display]
FIG. 30A: For example, in a state before the first special symbol starts to change (a state where the demonstration effect is not being performed), a row of three effect symbols is displayed large on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. ing. At this time, in accordance with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the effect symbol is also stopped.

  Also, markers (represented by reference numerals M1 and M2 in the figure) indicating the number of working memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol are displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (pre-change display area X1). (First memory display, second memory display). These markers M1 and M2 indicate the number of operating memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol corresponding to the respective display numbers (the number of displays of the first special symbol operating memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operating memory lamp 35a). The number of displays is increased or decreased in conjunction with the change in the number of working memories during the game. In order to facilitate visual discrimination, the markers M1 and M2 are displayed with, for example, an uncolored circular figure of the marker M1 corresponding to the first special symbol, and the marker M2 corresponding to the second special symbol is, for example, It is displayed as a colored circle.

  Further, the markers M1 and M2 are displayed side by side in the order in which the operation memory of the first special symbol or the operation memory of the second special symbol is acquired. In the example of (A) in FIG. 30, since two markers M1 and two markers M2 are alternately lit and displayed (total of four), the number of working memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is respectively Each of them is two, and their working memories are alternately stored (acquired) (stored number display effect executing means). Note that a total of eight markers M1 and M2 are displayed, four each.

  Further, during the variation display of the effect symbols, for example, the fourth symbol (reference numerals Z1 and Z2 are attached in the diagram) is displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. The fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are “fourth effect symbols” following the left, middle, and right effect symbols, and are displayed in a synchronized manner during the change display of the effect symbols. The fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are simply simple colors (for example, “□” figure) with a color, and for example, changing the display color can express a variable display. The fourth symbol Z1 corresponds to the first special symbol, and the fourth symbol Z2 corresponds to the second special symbol.

  Further, the fourth symbols Z1, Z2 are stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, white display color) corresponding to the deviation. This is to objectively clarify that the result display effect is correctly performed and the pachinko machine 1 is operating normally. Therefore, if the result of the internal lottery is actually “2 round big hit” or “15 round big hit” instead of “out of”, the 4th pattern is displayed in a manner corresponding to them (for example, red display color or green display color). Z1 and Z2 are stopped and displayed.

[Variable display production start]
FIG. 30B: For example, in synchronization with the start of the change of the first special symbol, the change display effect is started by the scroll change of the three symbol rows on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (the symbol effect). Execution means). In other words, in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol, the display of the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol is scrolled (flowed) in the vertical direction on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 so as to change the display. Production begins. The markers M1 and M2 are displayed on the band-like portion (pre-change display area X1) below the liquid crystal display 42 before the start of change, and the display is erased after the start of change. In the figure, the change display of the effect symbol is simply indicated by a downward arrow. In addition, during the variable display, each effect symbol is displayed in a transparent state (transparent display). At this time, an image (background image) that is the background of the effect symbol is displayed on the display screen in an easily visible state. ing.

  The background image in this case represents, for example, a landscape in which a female character wearing a yukata is sitting on a chaise lounge and relaxing as if the evening is cool. Such a background image expresses that the stay mode in the production is, for example, “normal mode”. In the present embodiment, the “normal mode” corresponds to a normal state in which the variation time shortening function is not activated and the probability variation function is also deactivated. In addition to this, various modes are provided for effects, and background images with different landscapes and scenes are prepared for each mode (status display effect execution means). The difference between these modes may correspond to an internal “time reduction state” or a “high probability state”. The mode corresponding to each internal state will be further described later. Although not specifically illustrated here, a mode in which a notice effect is performed by displaying an image of a character, an item, or the like on the display screen after that is also possible.

  Further, during the variation display of the effect symbols, the fourth symbol Z1 is variably displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the fourth symbol Z1 expresses the variation display by changing its display color.

[Left design stop]
In FIG. 30, (C): For example, when a certain amount of time (about half of the fluctuation time) has elapsed, the left effect design first stops changing. In this example, the effect symbol representing the number “8” is stopped at the middle position of the screen. Here, illustration of the background image is omitted (the same applies to the following).

[Example of production when the number of working memories decreases]
Here, as shown in FIG. 30 (B), since the number of working memories of the first special symbol decreases by one as the fluctuation starts, the number of markers M1 displayed is linked accordingly. It is reduced by one. For example, if there are four working memories so far, only the oldest (older) memory number display is hidden in the marker M1, and an effect consumed by the internal lottery is also performed. Thereby, it is possible to tell the player that the number of working memories for the first special symbol has decreased.

  In the example of (C) in FIG. 30, since the marker M1 at the head in the storage order is deleted, the number of markers displayed in the display area X1 before change becomes three, and therefore remains on the screen. There is an effect in which the three markers M1 and M2 are shifted by one each in one direction (here, the left direction). As a result, the context of the change in the number of working memories can be accurately expressed in the production, and the player can be intuitively and easily informed that the working memory has been consumed and decreased by one. it can.

[Right production symbol stop]
In FIG. 30, (D): After the left effect symbol, the right effect symbol stops changing thereafter. In this example, the effect symbol representing the number “3” is stopped at the middle position of the screen. Since it has already been determined that the reach state does not occur at this point, it is almost clear on the appearance that the current fluctuation is a non-reach (normal) fluctuation. Here, reach fluctuations due to slip patterns and the like are excluded. “Slip pattern” means, for example, that once the design symbol representing the number “7” stops, the design symbol slips by one symbol and the design symbol representing the number “8” stops, thereby developing reach It is to do. Alternatively, once the design symbol representing the number “9” stops, the design symbol that represents the number “8” stops as the design sequence slips by one symbol in the opposite direction. is there. In addition, for example, when an effect symbol representing a completely different number such as “5” is temporarily stopped and a character appears on the screen and the right effect symbol sequence is changed again, the number “8” is represented. There is also a pattern in which the production design stops and develops to reach.

[Stop display effect]
(E) in FIG. 30: The last medium effect symbol stops in synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol. If the result of the current internal lottery is non-winning and the first special symbol is stopped and displayed in a non-winning (out-of-game) manner, the staging display effect is also performed in a non-winning (out-of-game) manner. Is called. That is, in the illustrated example, the effect symbol representing the number “1” is stopped at the middle position of the screen. In this case, the combination of the effect symbols is “8”-“1”-“3”. Since this is a gap, it is expressed in the production that the current variation corresponds to the normal “out of range”. At this time, the fourth symbol Z1 is stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, white display color) corresponding to the dislocation.

  The above is an example of the change display effect and the result display effect (during non-winning) performed using the effect symbol for each change. Through such an effect, the player can have a sense of expectation for winning, and finally the result of the internal lottery can be clearly taught in the effect.

  In addition, the above example is for the case of non-winning, but at the time of big hit (winning), after the reach effect is executed during the variable display effect, the effect symbol is stopped and displayed in the big win mode in the result display effect. At this time, the stop display mode of the effect symbol basically corresponds to the winning symbol (stop display mode of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35) selected internally by the main control CPU 72. Selected.

[Example of production when winning two rounds of big hit]
FIG. 31 and FIG. 32 are continuous diagrams showing an example of an effect and a mode transition effect that are executed when a two-round big hit is won (at the time of two-round positive change winning or two-round normal winning). In addition, in the following description, the description is abbreviate | omitted suitably about the matter which is common in the production example mentioned above.

[Before starting variable display production]
In FIG. 31, (A): In the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, three lines of effect symbols are displayed large.

[Variable display production start]
In FIG. 31, (B): The change display effect is started by the scroll change of the three symbol rows on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42. Further, the fourth symbol Z1 is variably displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.

[Left design stop]
In FIG. 31, (C): The left effect design representing the number “1” stops at the middle position of the screen.

[Right production symbol stop]
In FIG. 31, (D): The right effect design representing the number “5” stops at the middle position of the screen.

[Stop display effect]
In FIG. 31, (E): The medium effect symbol representing the number “3” stops at the middle position of the screen. In this example, the stop display effect is performed in a manner similar to (or approximated to) the disappointment in terms of effect, although the symbol corresponding to the big hit of 2 rounds is stopped and displayed. In this case, since the combination of effect symbols is “1”-“3”-“5”, it is expressed on the effect that the current variation is not particularly different from the normal “out”. With such an effect, it is possible to remind the player that there has been a possibility of shifting to the “hidden probability change” state in subsequent games, and to suppress a decrease in the game motivation.

  Further, the fourth symbol Z1 is actually stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, yellow display color) corresponding to “2 round big hit”.

[Example of mode transition effect]
When the two round big hit is won, a mode transition effect is executed. This mode transition effect is executed, for example, at the timing when the “two round big hit” occurs. Note that such a mode transition effect is also executed when hitting a small hit.

(Door closing effect)
In FIG. 32 (F): During the round two big hits, doors (bags) appear from both sides of the display image, and a stunning closing effect is performed at the center.

(Door opening production)
(G) in FIG. 32: Next, the closed door quickly moves to the left and right of the display screen, and an effect (door opening effect) representing the operation of opening the door is performed.

[Mode transition (background change) production]
In FIG. 32 (H): When the door is opened, for example, the background image changes to a mode representing “Yukata mode” together with character information “Yukata mode entry!”. 32 (F) to FIG. 32 (H), the fourth symbol Z1 remains stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, yellow display color) corresponding to “two rounds big hit”.

[Yukata mode production]
In FIG. 32 (I): The background image is shifted from the “normal mode” to the “yukata mode”, and the next change in the second special symbol is started. In the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, the fourth symbol Z2 corresponding to the second special symbol is displayed in a variable manner.

[Production example at the time of big hit]
FIG. 33 is a continuous diagram showing the flow of reach production that is executed at the time of the big hit (winning) of the “15 round probability variation symbol”. Here, in addition to the reach effect, a variable display effect, a stop display effect, and a notice effect are included. In addition, an example of the notice effect (the notice effect before the occurrence of reach, the notice effect after the occurrence of reach) executed during the variable display effect will be described.

  In the following reach production, after the first special symbol display device 34 (or the second special symbol display device 35 may be used), the first special symbol is “15 round probability variation symbol” after the variation display is performed according to the variation pattern at the time of the big hit. (E.g. 7-segment LED “self”, “yo”, “mouth”, “巳”, “F”, “E”, “L”, “Γ”, etc.) The In addition, in FIG. 33, each production | presentation symbol is simplified and shown only as the number. The markers M1 and M2 and the fourth symbols Z1 and Z2 are not shown here. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the flow of production.

[Variable display effects]
In FIG. 33 (A): The left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol are vertically aligned on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 substantially in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol (or the second special symbol). The variable display effect is started by scrolling in a direction (for example, from top to bottom).

[Preliminary production before reach (first stage)]
(B) in FIG. 33: Next, in a relatively early stage of the variable display effect, the first stage pre-reach notice effect using the character's picture image (picture card) is performed. This pre-reach pre-announcement effect is a pre-announcement effect in which the change of the mode progresses in stages from one stage to a plurality of stages (for example, 2 to 5 stages) according to a predetermined order. The pattern image used in the pre-reach notice effect is located in front of the effect pattern that is displayed on the screen in a variable manner, for example, so as to appear suddenly from the left edge of the screen (other appearance modes) May be.) Note that the “pre-reach notice” means that a reach or a big hit is announced before any effect symbol is stopped and displayed. By executing such a “pre-reach announcement effect”, an effect of giving the player a sense of expectation that “it may develop into a reach = the possibility of a big hit increases” is obtained.

[Advance notice before the reach occurs (second stage)]
In FIG. 33C, after the first stage aspect of the pre-reach notice effect is executed, the change of the pre-reach notice effect proceeds to the second stage. Here, an effect using a character pattern image different from the previous one is performed as the notice effect before the occurrence of reach in the second stage. Specifically, another pattern image additionally appears from the right end of the screen, and is displayed so as to overlap the front of the previously displayed pattern image. The picture image displayed at this time is larger in size than the picture image displayed previously. And the effect by the sound output that the character expressed by the picture image emits a dialogue (for example, “I will reach” etc.) is also performed.

  Such a pre-reach notice announcement effect (second stage) using the second pattern image is one step further than the pre-reach notice effect (first stage) performed in FIG. It is a development type. In general, it may be expressed as “step-up notice” or the like, referring to the “pre-reach notice notice effect” that develops in this way. Here, an example is given in which the second-stage pattern image appears in the pre-reach notice effect, but the third-stage, fourth-stage, and fifth-stage pattern images appear and appear one after another. There may be. Further, for example, the size may be enlarged each time the third, fourth, and fifth-stage pattern images appear and appear one after another. Even at this stage, the variation display of the effect symbols is continued. In any case, it is possible to indicate to the player that there is a high possibility (expectation) that this change will be a big hit by making the change in the aspect of the pre-reach notice effect to more stages. (For example, the maximum expectation is suggested when progressing to the fifth stage).

[Stop of left design]
In FIG. 33 (D): The middle stage of the variable display effect is approached, and then the variable display of the left effect symbol is stopped. At this point, the effect symbol representing the number “6” is stopped at the upper left position of the screen, and the effect symbol representing the number “7” is stopped at the lower left position.

[Generation of reach state (reach production execution means)]
In FIG. 33 (E): Next to the left effect symbol, for example, the change display of the right effect symbol is stopped. At this point, the effect symbol representing the number “6” is stopped at the lower right position, and the effect symbol representing the number “7” is stopped at the upper right position of the screen. On the diagonal line (on two diagonal lines), two types of reach states of the numbers “6” — “being changed” — “6” and “7” — “being changed” — “7” have occurred. On the screen, an image that emphasizes two diagonal lines that are in a reach state on a diagonal line is displayed together. In addition, an effect of outputting a voice such as “Reach!” Is performed. Furthermore, in this example, since there are two candidates of numbers “6” and “7” for the medium effect design (so-called double reach and double template), it is a highly anticipated reach state. Also, in this case, if the number “7” is aligned, it is a probability variation jackpot, and if the number “6” is aligned, it is a non-probable variation jackpot. It is possible to make players feel various tensions.

  After the reach state occurs, the reach production at the time of winning is executed (however, at this point in time, the winning result has not yet been expressed). In the reach production, only the production symbols corresponding to the tempered numbers (here, “6” and “7”) are displayed on the screen, and the others are not displayed. At this time, the effect symbols may be displayed in a reduced state at the four corners of the screen. In the present embodiment, this reach production is a super reach production (specific reach production execution means).

[Preliminary notice after reach occurs (first time)]
In FIG. 33, (F): After a reach state occurs, for example, a notice effect after the occurrence of reach (first time) is performed in which images representing “heart” figures form a group and pass diagonally on the screen. . In this case, the image of the “heart group” is suddenly displayed on the screen so that the visual appeal to the player can be enhanced. By executing such a notice effect after the occurrence of visually lively reach, it is possible to obtain an effect of giving the player a greater expectation.

[Progress of reach production]
In FIG. 33 (G): Following the announcement effect after the first reach, for example, images representing the numbers “2” to “8” are displayed in a three-dimensional column on the screen. There is an effect in which numerical images are erased from the screen in the order of “2”, “3”, “4”. Such an effect is also intended to suggest (imply) or remind the player that the number “6” or “7” is a “hit” if it remains unerased to the end. Done in If the number “5” is erased and “6” remains in front of the screen, it is “ordinary (non-probable) big hit”, but if the number “6” is erased and “7” remains in front of the screen. It means “probable big hit”, and if the number “7” is also erased, it means “out of place”. In this case, for example, the number “8” is displayed on the screen after the number “7” is deleted. Therefore, during this time, the numbers “2”, “3”, “4”... Are erased in order, and as the number “5” approaches, the player's tension and expectation. The feeling will also increase. After this, for example, if up to the number “4” is erased on the screen, the next time the number “5” is finally erased, this time, “normal (non-probable) big hit” or “probable big hit” is possible. Because of the increased nature, the player's tension will increase at once.

[Preliminary notice after the occurrence of reach (second time)]
In FIG. 33 (H): When the reach production is approaching the final stage, the image of the character is suddenly displayed on the screen as if it was split into a close-up, and the content that the character emits some dialogue (or silently) (The content may be that of smiling). At this time, for example, the content of the reach effect is a development that “if the number“ 5 ”is erased, then the possibility of a big hit of“ 6 ”-“ 6 ”-“ 6 ”increases” ”. Therefore, by causing a character image to appear greatly at this timing, an effect of giving the player a sense of expectation that “may be a big hit” is obtained.

  As a reach production different from the above, for example, if “numbers“ 2 ”to“ 6 ”are erased and the number“ 7 ”is left unerased at the end,“ 7 ”-“ 7 ”- There is also the development that “7 is a promising big hit”. When the character image appears at such a timing, an effect of giving the player a sense of expectation that “it may finally be a promising big hit” is obtained.

[Result display effect]
In FIG. 33 (I): The last medium effect symbol stops substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. In this example, since the winning symbol internally corresponds to “15 round probability change”, the effect symbol representing the odd number “7” in the effect is stopped and displayed at the center of the screen.

  In FIG. 33 (J): For example, a confirmed stop display is also performed for a result display effect as an effect symbol substantially in synchronization with the confirmed stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. The effect design fixed stop display is performed, for example, in a state where the left, middle, and right effect symbols are restored to their initial sizes. By performing such confirmation stop display, the player can be informed that the final winning type has been confirmed in the production. In this case, the fourth symbol Z is stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, red display color) corresponding to “15 rounds probable big hit”.

  In this example, the case of “15 rounds probable big hit” is given as an example, but if the result of the internal lottery is “15 rounds normal big hit”, the left, middle, and right directing patterns will be shown through the reach effect. The stop display is made in a big hit mode composed of the same kind of combinations (for example, “6”-“6”-“6”). In this case, the fourth symbol Z is stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, green display color) corresponding to “15 round normal big hit”.

  In addition, if the result of the internal lottery is non-winning, the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed as the off symbol, so that the staging display effect is also performed in a manner of deviation in the same manner. Execution means). In this case, by displaying numbers “5” and “8” other than “6” and “7” in the center of the screen, unfortunately, an effect is provided informing that the current change did not result in a big hit. Such an effect is executed as an “out of reach reach effect”.

[Director-in-chief production (special game production)]
FIG. 34 and FIG. 35 are continuous diagrams partially showing an example of the big-bill effect performed during the 15-round big hit game.

[1 round]
In FIG. 34, (A): When the first round of the big hit game is started, the big role effect of the content corresponding to the progress status of the game “big hit” is executed. In the role-playing effect, for example, character information corresponding to the number of rounds “ROUND1” is displayed on the screen. In addition, an effect design (here, the number “7”) corresponding to the current winning design is displayed at the lower right corner of the screen. In this way, by continuously displaying the winning symbol (so-called “remaining eye”) even during the big hit game, it is possible to continuously teach the player that “15 rounds probable big hit”.

[Story introduction production]
In the first round of the jackpot game, an effect is introduced that introduces the story production executed during the current jackpot game. In the example shown in the figure, information such as “the beginning of the first episode festival” is displayed, and the player can be informed that the first episode of the story production will be started.

[2 rounds, music selection effect]
In FIG. 34 (B): In the second round of the big hit game, a BGM selection effect for selecting the BGM flowing during the current big hit game is performed. In the example shown in the figure, a female character utters the phrase “Please select a song”. On the left side of the LCD screen, selectable songs (Festival Boogie, Ueno Kid, Fireworks Story) are displayed. It is displayed. In the initial state, a note mark is displayed on the left side of the display area of the top song (Festival Boogie), and if the player does not take any action, the top song will be played at the end of the second round. Is selected.

  Here, when the player presses the effect switching button 45 once, the note mark moves to the second song (Ueno Kid), and when the second round ends in that state, the second song is selected. Is done. Furthermore, when the player performs an operation of pressing the effect switching button 45 once, the note mark moves to the third song (fireworks story), and when the second round is completed in that state, the third song is selected. .

  However, at this point, the fourth song (the portion where the Hatena mark is displayed) is not selectable, and the effect switch button is displayed with the note mark displayed on the left side of the third song (Fireworks Story). When 45 is pressed once, a note mark is displayed again on the left side of the display area of the top song (Festival Boogie). In any case, the music selected by the player is output as BGM from the speakers 54, 55, and 56 during the subsequent big hit game.

[3 rounds, story development]
In FIG. 34 (C): In the third round of the jackpot game, an effect is developed in which the contents of “First episode festival start” are developed. In the example shown in the figure, for example, a “female character wearing a yukata” is displayed large on the display screen, and the content of the story of “First Story” is developed. Thereafter, the contents of the story of “First episode” are also developed in rounds 4 to 14 during the big hit game.

[15 rounds]
In FIG. 35 (D): When the final 15 rounds are entered, character information corresponding to the number of rounds of “ROUND15” is displayed in the screen. In the illustrated example, the content of the last story of “Episode 1” is developed.

[At the end of a major role]
In FIG. 35 (E): At the timing when the big hit game is ended (during the end process), the big end effect of the content teaching the internal state to be transferred thereafter is executed. In this example, for example, text information “probability change mode entry” is displayed in the screen. By executing such a big game end effect, the player can be instructed to shift to the “high probability state” as a privilege after the big hit game ends.

  The above is an example of an effect executed during the first big hit game, but in this embodiment, when the big hit game is executed continuously (so-called consecutive resort), the first episode, the second episode, the third episode Like the story, the story production displayed in the previous jackpot game is to be continuously executed. With such game specifications, it is possible to increase the willingness to continue to see the story and improve the player's willingness to play. The continuation of the big hit game means a case where the winning with the 15 round probability variation symbol continues or the case where the 15 round big hit is won in a time shortened state after winning with the 15 round normal symbol.

[Director during big role]
FIG. 36 and FIG. 37 are continuous diagrams partially showing an example of a big-bill effect performed during a 15-round big hit game when the big hit game continues.

[The second big hit]
In FIG. 36, (A): The second story story effect is executed for the second big hit (second ream). Specifically, in the first round, information such as “2nd story at the seaside” is displayed, and a background image of the seaside and mountains is displayed. In the subsequent 2nd to 15th rounds, an effect is developed in which the story of “Second episode” is developed (the same applies to the following big hits).

[The fifth big hit]
In FIG. 36 (B): The fifth story story effect is executed at the fifth big hit (5th series). Specifically, in the first round, information such as “Episode 5 rival” is displayed, and a background image in which a female character and a female character different from the female character are displayed is displayed.

[10th big hit]
In FIG. 36 (C): The story effect of the 10th episode is executed at the 10th big hit (10 consecutive tenth). Specifically, information such as “Episode 10 Night Youkai” is displayed in the first round, and a female character who makes a face to a lantern haunted youkai is displayed.

[The 15th big hit]
In FIG. 37 (D): The 15th story story effect is executed at the 15th big hit (15th series). Specifically, in the first round, information such as “Episode 15 Mysterious Person” is displayed, and a female character wearing sunglasses is displayed.

[20th big hit]
In FIG. 37 (E): The story effect of the twentieth episode is executed at the 20th big hit (20th series). Specifically, in the first round, information such as “final talk last fireworks” is displayed, and a background image of a female character looking up at fireworks is displayed along with “a scene where fireworks are launched in the night sky”.

  Thus, when the big hit is continued 20 times, an effect of displaying the ending of the story developed during the game is performed, so that the satisfaction of the player can be improved. After that, if the big hit continues further, the story production is performed again from the first episode.

[Normal jackpot]
In FIG. 37 (F): If the 15-round normal big hit is won after the second big hit, the story effect ends there. In this case, during the big hit game, the story end effect is executed. More specifically, information such as “Farewell” is displayed in the first round, and an effect is produced in which a female character sheds tears. When the first big hit (first win) corresponds to the normal big hit, the story effect of the first episode is executed.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the special mode effect is executed based on the number of working memories before being consumed in the internal lottery, separately from the above-described variable display effect and result display effect. Such a special mode effect can be executed based on an effect command when the number of working memories is increased, an effect command when the number of working memories is decreased, and the like generated by the main control CPU 72. Hereinafter, a mode of the special mode effect will be described.

[Example of special mode production]
FIG. 38 is a continuous diagram showing an example of the special mode effect.

[Before starting variable display production]
In FIG. 38 (A): A row of three effect symbols is displayed large in the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. In the illustrated example, four markers M2 are displayed, three markers M1 are displayed, and are alternately lit and displayed (a total of seven).

[Variable display production start]
In FIG. 38 (B): The variable display effect is started by scrolling the three symbol rows on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42. At this time, the marker M2 corresponding to the operation memory of the second special symbol is deleted. Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is variably displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.

[Left design stop]
(C) in FIG. 38: The left effect symbol representing the number “2” stops at the middle position of the screen. In the pre-fluctuation display area X1, there is an effect in which the remaining six markers M1 and M2 are shifted in one direction (here, leftward) by one each.

[Right production symbol stop, production example when working memory increases]
(D) in FIG. 38: The right effect design representing the number “6” stops at the middle position of the screen. At this time, the number of working memories has increased by two (for example, a winning at the right start winning opening 26 occurs, and a winning at the left starting winning opening 28a immediately occurs), so that the marker M1 in the pre-change display area X1 And the effect which increases the marker M2 by 1 each (2 pieces in total) is performed. Such an effect is achieved by, for example, causing the marker M1 and the marker M2 to newly appear at positions where the marker M1 and the marker M2 have not been displayed before, so that the number of working memories corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol can be increased. This is done for the purpose of teaching the player that the number has been increased one by one.

[Special mode production]
(E) in FIG. 38: At this time, the total number of memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol has reached a predetermined maximum value (eight), so the special mode effect is executed. .
When the special mode is entered, an effect of emitting an aura (effect) (displaying an image similar to a flame) is performed from the left and right areas of the liquid crystal screen and the memory markers M1 and M2.
Note that this special mode is only a production mode, and the winning probability of the internal lottery does not change. Therefore, even if the normal mode is changed to the special mode, the internal state is not changed, and the special mode is changed while the internal state is maintained. For example, when the mode is shifted from the normal mode to the special mode, the effect of adding the effect image to the background image is performed without changing the background image in the normal mode. Further, when the mode is changed from the yukata mode to the special mode, an effect in which the effect image is added to the background image without changing the background image of the yukata mode is performed.

  Here, for the special mode, a special mode special color (for example, purple) is set, and the aura image is displayed in the special color. By executing such a visually lively special mode effect, it is possible to easily tell the player that the mode has changed to the special mode. It should be noted that special colors other than the special mode are not used as much as possible.

  Here, the special mode effects are basically (1) image effects by the storage markers M1 and M2 on the liquid crystal screen, (2) light effects by the panel lamp 53, and (3) various lamps 46 to 52 (glass). (4) Sound effects by speakers 54, 55 and 56, (5) Image effects by liquid crystal screen background effect (Aura) This is done by executing.

However, when it is determined that the effect (additional effect) by the background effect cannot be executed (for example, during the full-screen effect), the effect (1), (3), and (4) is special. A mode effect is executed, and in the next variable display effect, the effects according to (2) and (5) are added to the effects according to (1), (3), and (4) above, and the special effects according to (1) to (5) above are added. The mode production is to be executed. As described above, the reason why the effects (2) and (5) are not executed during the full screen effect is that the background effect may be difficult to display during the full screen effect, and the light effect by the panel lamp 53 is the full screen. This is because it is often linked to the production.
Here, the “full screen effect” is a concept that includes not only an effect performed using all areas of the liquid crystal screen, but also an effect performed using most of the liquid crystal screen (for example, more than half). . For example, when a special variation pattern effect that executes a super reach effect is selected, or a premium notice effect such as a premium notice effect that increases the player's expectation for a big hit compared to a normal notice effect. The case where the notice effect is selected is also included in the full screen effect.

[Direction during special mode (Special special game production)]
FIG. 39 and FIG. 40 are continuous diagrams partially showing an example of the big role production executed during the 15-round big hit game in the special mode when the lottery result is a big hit during execution of the special mode production.

[1 round]
In FIG. 39 (A): When the first round of the big hit game is started, the big role effect of the content corresponding to the progress status of the game “during the big hit” is executed. Originally, if the first big hit is applicable, the story production starts from “Episode 1”, but this big hit is a 15-round big hit game executed in the special mode. Because of this, the story production (premium ending production) from the “final story” is suddenly performed. In addition to the story production from the “final story”, other story productions that are not selected in the normal jackpot game (for example, introduction of characters appearing in the story production and explanation of reach production) Production, new story production after the final story, etc.) may be performed.

[2 rounds]
In FIG. 39 (B): In the second round of the big hit game, a BGM selection effect for selecting the BGM flowing during the current big hit game is performed. And since the big hit this time is a 15-round big hit game executed during the special mode, the “red fireworks” of the premium music displayed together with the image of the crown can be selected. This premium music is a music that cannot be selected in the normal 15-round jackpot game.

[3 rounds]
In FIG. 40 (C): In the third round of the jackpot game, an effect is displayed in which a code (QR code; registered trademark) that allows the player to acquire a special item is displayed. The player can obtain, for example, a URL for connecting to a dedicated server of the gaming machine manufacturer by reading this code with a camera attached to the portable terminal. Then, by accessing a dedicated server based on the acquired URL, data such as premium wallpaper and premium music can be stored in its own mobile terminal.

[4 rounds]
In FIG. 40 (D): In the fourth round of the jackpot game, an effect is displayed to display a premium character that is not displayed in the normal 15-round jackpot game effect. In the illustrated example, a cat character held by a female character is displayed.
In addition, each of these effects may execute any one effect, or may be any combination.

  Next, an example of a control method for specifically realizing the above effects will be described. The following control processes are used for the above-described change display effects, reach effects, advance notice effects before reach occurrence, memory number display effects, pre-read notice effects, etc., mode transition effects linked to this, special mode effects, etc. Is controlled through.

[Production control processing]
FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the effect control process executed by the effect control CPU 126. This effect control process is executed, for example, in a timer interrupt process (interrupt management process) separately from a reset start (main) process (not shown). The effect control CPU 126 generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined interrupt cycle (for example, a period of several tens of μs to several ms) during execution of the reset start process, and executes the timer interrupt process.

  The effect control process includes a command reception process (step S400), a special mode management process (step S400a), an operation memory effect management process (step S401), an effect symbol management process (step S402), a display output process (step S404), a lamp. This includes a subroutine group of drive processing (step S406), acoustic drive processing (step S408), effect random number update processing (step S410), and other processing (step S412). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect control process will be described along each process.

  Step S400: In the command receiving process, the effect control CPU 126 receives an effect command transmitted from the main control CPU 72. The effect control CPU 126 analyzes the received commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 according to type. The command for the effect transmitted from the main control CPU 72 includes, for example, a special figure destination determination effect command, a (special symbol) effect command when the operating memory number increases, a (special symbol) effect command when the operating memory number decreases, a start port Winning tone control command, demonstration effect command, lottery result command, variation pattern command, variation start command, stop symbol command, symbol stop command, state designation command, number of rounds command, error notification command, jackpot end effect command, variation pattern There are destination judgment commands and the like.

  Step S400a: In the special mode management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the process for managing the special mode described above. The contents of the special mode management process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S401: In the operation memory effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the execution of the above-described stored number display effect and the pre-reading notice effect using the markers M1 and M2. The contents of the working memory effect management process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S402: In the effect symbol management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the variable display effect and the result display effect using the effect symbols, and controls the effect contents during the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects effect patterns of various notice effects (notice effect before reach occurrence, notice effect after reach occurrence, etc.). The contents of the effect symbol management process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S404: In the display output process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) with basic control information of the effect contents (for example, the number of working memories of each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol). , An operation memory effect pattern number, a prefetch notice effect pattern number, a change effect pattern number, a change notice effect number, a background pattern number, etc.). Thereby, the effect display control device 144 (the display control CPU 146 and the VDP 152) controls the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 based on the instructed effect content (effect executing means).

  Step S406: In the lamp driving process, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the lamp driving circuit 132. In response to this, the lamp driving circuit 132 drives (turns on or off, blinks, changes in luminance gradation, etc.) the various lamps 46 to 52 and the panel lamp 53 based on the control signal. The details of the lamp driving process will be described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S408: In the next sound drive process, the effect control CPU 126 sends the effect contents (for example, BGM, sound data, etc. during the variable display effect, during the reach effect, during the mode transition effect, during the jackpot effect) to the sound drive circuit 134. Instruct. Thereby, the sound according to the production content is output from the speakers 54, 55, and 56. The contents of the acoustic driving process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S410: In the effect random number update process, the effect control CPU 126 updates various effect random numbers in the counter area of the RAM 130. The effect random number includes, for example, a random number used for selecting a notice and a random number used for a normal background change lottery (effect lottery).

  Step S412: In other processing, for example, when there is a movable body for presentation, the presentation control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the movable body driving IC. Although not particularly illustrated, the movable body is operated by a driving source such as a solenoid or a stepping motor, and produces an effect in synchronism with the display of an image by the liquid crystal display 42 or independently. These solenoids, stepping motors, and other drive sources can be connected to, for example, the panel illumination board 138 in FIG.

  Through the above-described effect control process, the effect control CPU 126 can comprehensively control the effect contents in the pachinko machine 1. Next, the contents of the special mode management process executed in the effect control process will be described.

[Special mode management processing]
FIG. 42 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary procedure of special mode management processing. Hereinafter, the contents will be described along a procedure example.

Step S800: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the total number of memories obtained by summing the number of memories of the first special symbol and the number of memories of the second special symbol is the maximum value (for example, eight). Specifically, whether or not the total stored number is the maximum value is confirmed by checking a command stored in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 (for example, an effect command when the working memory number increases or an effect command when the working memory number decreases). Can be confirmed.
If the total stored number is the maximum value (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S802. If the total stored number is not the maximum value (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S808.

  Step S802: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the special mode flag is ON. If the special mode flag is ON (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S804. If the special mode flag is OFF (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S806.

Step S804: The effect control CPU 126 resets the special mode counter value. In this case, since the special mode flag remains ON, the special mode is maintained as it is. Note that resetting the “special mode counter value” here means that the special mode is extended, and thus the counter value is reset from “0”.
Step S806: The effect control CPU 126 turns on the special mode flag. By turning on the special mode flag, the normal mode can be shifted to the special mode (special mode shifting means). The special mode flag is stored in the RAM 130.

  Step S808: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the special mode flag is ON. This processing is the same as the processing content of the previous step S802. If the special mode flag is ON (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S810. If the special mode flag is OFF (No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 41).

  Step S810: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the special mode end condition is satisfied. When the special mode end condition (specific condition) is satisfied (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S812. When the special mode end condition is not satisfied (No), the effect control CPU 126 performs the effect control process (FIG. Return to 41).

Here, the following three conditions can be adopted as the termination conditions for the special mode.
(1) When the mode is changed to the special mode, the number of times of change corresponding to the number of times of display and stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is counted (for example, incremented from 0 of the initial value), and the counter value is When the predetermined value (9 times or 20 times) is reached, it is determined that the special mode end condition is satisfied. This counter value is stored in the RAM 130 as a special mode counter value. If the predetermined value is set to 9 times, it is possible to stay in the special mode with respect to the change in the state where the number of memories is 8 and the remaining 8 memories. If the predetermined value is set to 20 times, it is possible to stay in the special mode for a while after digesting the memory for eight.

(2) When the mode is shifted to the special mode and the super reach effect (specific reach effect) is executed, it is determined that the special mode end condition is satisfied. In this way, the special mode can be continued until a super reach effect with high hit reliability is generated.

(3) When the mode is shifted to the special mode, a reach effect (a reach effect such as a normal reach effect, a long reach effect, a super reach effect, etc.) is executed, and a predetermined mode shift lottery (for example, 1 / 2), it is determined that the special mode termination condition is satisfied. In this way, since the average shift to the normal mode is performed after the reach effect is executed two or three times on average, it can be taught that the shift to the normal mode is triggered by some reach effect.

  However, regarding the above (2) and (3), regarding the change when the mode is shifted to the special mode, control may be performed so as not to shift to the normal mode even if the condition for returning to the normal mode is satisfied. This is because, even during a normal game, the total stored number may reach a predetermined maximum value, but the total stored number is predetermined when a reach effect with a certain long variation time is being executed. Considering the point where the maximum value of is easily reached. In this case, even if the special mode is entered during the execution of the reach effect, if the predetermined reach occurs and the special mode end condition is satisfied, the normal mode is immediately resumed when the reach effect ends. Will end up. Therefore, with respect to the above (2) and (3), with respect to the change when the mode is shifted to the special mode, even if the conditions for returning to the normal mode are satisfied, the reach effect is achieved by preventing the shift to the normal mode. You can enjoy the game in the special mode by continuing the special mode even after the game is over.

Step S812: The effect control CPU 126 turns off the special mode flag. By turning off the special mode flag, it is possible to shift from the special mode to the normal mode (normal mode shift means).
When the above process is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 41).

Next, the contents of the action memory effect management process executed in the effect control process will be described.
[Working memory production management process]
FIG. 43 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the working memory effect management process. Hereinafter, the contents will be described along a procedure example.

  Step S700: First, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories has been received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130, and confirms whether or not the effect command at the time when the number of working memories increases is stored. When it is confirmed that the effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S702. If it is not possible to confirm that the effect command at the time of increasing the number of operating memories is stored (No), the effect control CPU 126 does not execute step S702.

  Step S702: The effect control CPU 126 executes an effect selection process when the number of working memories increases. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect for displaying the markers M1 and M2 corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol.

  Step S704: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the effect command at the time when the number of working memories decreases is received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the effect command when the number of working memories is reduced is stored. When it is confirmed that the production command when the number of working memories decreases is saved (Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes step S706. If it is not possible to confirm that the effect command at the time when the number of working memories decreases is stored (No), the effect control CPU 126 does not execute step S706.

  Step S706: The effect control CPU 126 executes effect selection processing when the number of working memories decreases. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect of sliding the markers M1 and M2 corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol and an effect of deleting each marker from the pre-change display area X1.

  Step S708: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the special mode flag is ON. When it is confirmed that the special mode flag is ON (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S710. If it is confirmed that the special mode flag is OFF (No), the effect control CPU 126 does not execute step S710.

Step S710: The effect control CPU 126 executes special mode storage number display effect selection processing (special mode effect executing means). Specifically, a process of selecting an effect (for example, (E) in FIG. 38) that causes the memory marker to generate an effect is executed.
When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 41).

[Direction design management processing]
FIG. 44 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the effect symbol management process. The effect symbol management process includes an execution selection process (step S500), an effect symbol change pre-process (step S502), an effect symbol change process (step S504), an effect symbol stop display process (step S506), and a variable winning device operation. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S508). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect symbol management process will be described along each process.

  Step S500: In the execution selection process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S502 to S508). For example, the effect control CPU 126 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the effect symbol management process in the “jump table” as the return address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the situation has not yet started the variation display effect, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol variation pre-processing (step S502) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the effect symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol variation processing (step S504) as the next jump destination, and if the effect symbol variation in-process has been completed, As a jump destination, the effect symbol stop display in-progress process (step S506) is selected. The variable winning device operating process (step S508) is selected as a jump destination only when the variable winning device management process (step S5000 in FIG. 16) is selected in the main control CPU 72. In this case, steps S502 to S506 are not executed.

  Step S502: In the effect symbol variation pre-processing, the effect control CPU 126 performs an operation of preparing conditions for starting the variable display effect using the effect symbol. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the reach effect according to various conditions (lottery result, winning type, variation pattern, etc.), or produces an effect pattern for the notice effect (reach occurrence other than the pre-reading notice effect pattern). Select a previous notice pattern, a reach notice pattern after reach, etc.). In addition, the production control CPU 126 also performs demonstration production control when the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S504: In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 126 generates control information instructing the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) as necessary. The contents of the effect symbol variation processing will be described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S506: In the effect symbol stop display process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the result display effect using the effect symbols and moving images in a manner corresponding to the result of the internal lottery. That is, the effect control CPU 126 instructs the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) to end the variable display effect and execute the result display effect. In response to this, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) ends the variable display effect that has been actually executed within the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and executes the result display effect. As a result, the result display effect is executed substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the special symbol, and the result of the internal lottery can be effectively taught (disclosure, notification, notification, etc.) to the player (execution of the symbol effect) means). However, in the present embodiment, the result display effect is executed in a manner similar to or close to the loss when winning two rounds or at a small hit.

  Step S508: In the variable winning device operation process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the effect during the small hit or the big hit. The contents of the variable winning device operating process will be described later with reference to another drawing.

[Preliminary design change processing]
FIG. 45 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the above-described effect symbol variation pre-processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S600: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not a demonstration effect command is received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not a demonstration effect command is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the command for demonstration effect is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S602.

  Step S602: The effect control CPU 126 executes a demo selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects a demonstration effect pattern. The demonstration effect pattern defines the contents of the effect indicating that the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the last address of the effect symbol management process. Then, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process as it is, and controls the contents of the demonstration effect based on the demonstration effect pattern in the subsequent display output process (step S404 in FIG. 41) and lamp driving process (step S406 in FIG. 41). To do.

  On the other hand, if it is confirmed in step S600 that the demonstration effect command is not stored (No), the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S604.

  Step S604: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current fluctuation is out of place (non-winning). Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not a lottery result command at the time of non-winning is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is saved (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S612. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is not saved (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S606. Note that whether or not the current variation is off can be confirmed based on a variation pattern command or a stop symbol command in addition to the lottery result command. In other words, if the current variation pattern command corresponds to the outlier normal variation or outlier reach variation, it can be determined that the current variation is outlier. Alternatively, if the current stop symbol command specifies a non-winning symbol, it can be determined that the current variation is out of sync.

  Step S606: If the lottery result command is other than non-winning (missing) (step S604: No), the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current fluctuation is a big hit. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the lottery result command at the time of the big hit is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of big hit is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S610. On the contrary, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of big hit is not stored (No), since only the lottery result command at the time of small hit is left, in this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S608. Whether or not the current variation is a big hit can also be confirmed based on a variation pattern command or a stop symbol command. That is, if the current variation pattern command corresponds to the big hit variation, it can be determined that the current variation is a big hit. If the current stop symbol command corresponds to the jackpot symbol, it can be determined that the current variation is a jackpot.

  Step S608: The effect control CPU 126 executes a small hit hour variation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command received from the main control CPU 72 (for example, “C0H00H” to “D0H7FH”). The effect pattern number is prepared in advance corresponding to the variation pattern command, and the effect control CPU 126 can select an effect pattern number corresponding to the variation pattern command at that time by referring to an effect pattern selection table (not shown). it can. The production pattern numbers may be prepared in pairs with the variation pattern commands, or a plurality of production pattern numbers may be prepared for one variation pattern command.

  When the effect pattern number is selected, the effect control CPU 126 refers to an effect table (not shown), and the effect symbol change schedule (change time, reach type and reach occurrence timing) corresponding to the change effect pattern number at that time, stop display The mode and the like are determined. Note that the types of effect symbols determined here correspond to the “combination of symbols at the time of a small hit”.

  Although the above procedure corresponds to “small hit”, if it corresponds to 15 round big hit or 2 round big hit, the effect control CPU 126 confirms that it is “big hit” in step S606 (Yes). In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S610.

  Step S610: The effect control CPU 126 executes a big hit hour fluctuation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command (for example, “E0H00H” to “F0H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72. The types of effect symbols determined here include those constituting the “combination at the time of two rounds big hit” in addition to those constituting the above “hit combination”. In addition, the combination at the time of 2 round big hits shall be a combination of regular numbers such as “1-2-3” and “3-5-7” as described above (so-called chance win) Can do. Note that, in the big hit effect pattern selection process, the process may be further branched for each big hit stop symbol. The contents of the big hit hour variation effect pattern selection process will be described later with reference to another drawing.

  In the case of non-winning, the following procedure is executed. In other words, when the effect control CPU 126 confirms that there is a shift in step S604 (Yes), it next executes step S612.

  Step S612: The effect control CPU 126 executes a deviation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at the time of deviation based on the variation pattern command (for example, “A0H00H” to “A6H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72. The effect pattern numbers at the time of losing are classified into “ordinary deviation fluctuation”, “short-time deviation fluctuation”, “outlier reach fluctuation”, and the like, and a fine reach fluctuation pattern is defined in “outlier reach fluctuation”. Note that which effect pattern number is selected by the effect control CPU 126 is determined based on the variation pattern command transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

  When the effect pattern number at the time of detachment is selected, the effect control CPU 126 refers to an effect table (not shown), and the effect symbol change schedule corresponding to the change effect pattern number at that time (change time, presence / absence of reach, occurrence of reach) , Reach type and reach occurrence timing) and stop display mode (for example, “7”-“2”-“4”, etc.).

  When any one of the above steps S608, S610, and S612 is executed, the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S614.

  Step S614: The effect control CPU 126 executes a notice selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the notice effect to be executed during the current variable display effect by lottery. The content of the notice effect is determined based on, for example, the result of internal lottery (winning or non-winning) and the current internal state (normal state, high probability state, time reduction state). As described above, the notice effect is for notifying the player of the possibility that the reach state will occur during the variable display effect, or for notifying that there is a possibility that it will eventually be a big hit. Therefore, the selection ratio of the notice effect is set to be low at the time of non-winning, but the selection ratio of the notice effect is set to be relatively high to increase the player's expectation at the time of winning.

  Step S616: The effect control CPU 126 executes special mode effect selection processing. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 executes a special mode effect selection process executed in the special mode. Note that the details of the specific control will be described later using still another flowchart.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (end address). As a result, in the subsequent effect symbol variation processing (step S504 in FIG. 44), the variation display effect and the result display effect are executed based on the actually selected variation effect pattern (effect execution means), and various A notice effect is executed based on the notice effect pattern (effect execution means). In addition, various stay mode effects are executed based on the background (stay) mode pattern selected here (effect execution means).

[Special mode effect selection process]
FIG. 46 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary procedure of special mode effect selection processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S910: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the special mode flag is ON. If the special mode flag is ON (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S912. If the special mode flag is OFF (No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 45). .

Step S912: The effect control CPU 126 executes special mode effect pattern selection processing (special mode effect executing means). Specifically, a process of selecting an effect (for example, (E) in FIG. 38) for generating an effect in the left and right areas of the liquid crystal screen is executed.
When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 45).

[Processing during production design variation]
FIG. 47 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the processing during the effect symbol variation. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S920: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the special mode flag is ON. If the special mode flag is ON (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S922, and if the special mode flag is OFF (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S926.

Step S922: The effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not the full screen effect is being performed (determination means). Specifically, the variation pattern command stored in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 is confirmed, and the variation pattern of the effect design based on the variation pattern command (variation time, reach type and reach occurrence timing, type of notice effect, etc.) ) In the example of FIG. 33, for example, the state before the reach state occurs ((A) to (D) in FIG. 33) is determined not to be a full screen effect, and the state after the reach state occurs is ( In FIG. 33 (E) to (J)), it can be determined that the full screen effect is being performed.
If it is determined that the full screen effect is being produced (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S926. If it is determined that the full screen effect is not being produced (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S924.

  Step S924: The effect control CPU 126 executes special mode effect pattern selection processing (special mode effect executing means). Specifically, a process of selecting an effect (for example, (E) in FIG. 38) for generating an effect in the left and right areas of the liquid crystal screen is executed.

Step S926: The effect control CPU 126 executes an effect symbol changing process. In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 126 generates control information instructing the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) as necessary. For example, when performing an effect using the effect switching button 45 during execution of the variable display effect using the effect symbol, the effect control CPU 126 monitors whether or not the player has operated the effect button, and an effect corresponding to the result is displayed. The control information on the contents (button effect) is instructed to the display control CPU 146.
When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (FIG. 44).

[Processing when the variable winning device is activated (special game effect execution means)]
FIG. 48 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of the variable winning device operating process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S930: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the special mode flag is ON. If the special mode flag is ON (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S932, and if the special mode flag is OFF (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S936.

Step S932: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current winning symbol is a winning symbol capable of executing a special special game effect. Specifically, the stop symbol command stored in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 is confirmed, and if the current winning symbol is “15 round probability variation symbol” or “15 round normal symbol”, a special special game effect is executed. If it is determined that the winning symbol is possible, and if the current winning symbol is “2 round probability variation symbol” or “2 round normal symbol”, it is determined that the symbol is not a winning symbol that can execute the special special game effect. The reason for making this determination is that the mode transition effect is executed at the time of winning in the “2-round probability variation symbol” or “2-round normal symbol”, while the special special game effect is not executed.
When it is determined that the current winning symbol is a winning symbol that can execute the special special game effect (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes Step S934, and the winning symbol that can execute the special special game effect is executed by the current winning symbol. If it is determined that it is not (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes Step S936.

  Step S934: The effect control CPU 126 executes a special special game effect selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 executes a special special game effect set to an effect content different from the normal special game effect instead of the normal special game effect set to the normal effect content (special special game effect). Execution means). Specifically, processing for selecting various premium jackpot effects (for example, FIG. 39, FIG. 40, etc.) is executed.

  Step S936: The effect control CPU 126 executes a normal special game effect selection process. Specifically, processing for selecting a normal jackpot effect (for example, FIGS. 34 to 37, etc.) is executed. In this processing, the effect control CPU 126 selects the contents of the prominent effect according to various conditions (for example, winning type). For example, in the case of 15 rounds probable big hit, the effect control CPU 126 selects a 15-round prominent effect pattern as the effect contents to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, and instructs this to the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146). (For example, the production examples in FIGS. 34 and 35). As a result, the image of the prominent effect is displayed on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the effect contents change as the round progresses.

  Or when it corresponds to "2 round big hits", production control CPU126 performs control which performs a mode change production (for example, production example of Drawing 31 and 32). In the case of “small hit”, the effect control CPU 126 performs control to execute the same effect as the mode transition effect (for example, the effect examples in FIGS. 31 and 32).

Step S938: The effect control CPU 126 turns off the special mode flag.
Step S940: The effect control CPU 126 resets the special mode counter value. Note that the resetting of the “special mode counter value” here means that the special mode is temporarily re-partitioned by a big hit, and thus the counter value is returned to the initial value “0”.
When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (FIG. 44).

[Lamp drive processing]
FIG. 49 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the lamp driving process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S950: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the special mode flag is ON. If the special mode flag is ON (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S952, and if the special mode flag is OFF (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S960.

Step S952: The effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not the full screen effect is being performed (determination means). A specific example of the determination is the same as in the previous step S922.
When it is determined that the full screen effect is being performed (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S954. When it is determined that the full screen effect is not being generated (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S956.

  Steps S954 and S956: The effect control CPU 126 executes a process of outputting a special mode control signal for the various lamps 46 to 52 (the glass frame top lamps 46 and 48, the glass frame side lamp 50, the saucer lamp 52). Specifically, the light emission processing mainly for the special mode dedicated color (for example, purple) is executed.

  Step S958: The effect control CPU 126 executes a process of outputting a special mode control signal for the panel lamp 53. Specifically, the light emission processing mainly for the special mode dedicated color (for example, purple) is executed.

  As described above, the reason for not executing the process of outputting the control signal for the special mode for the panel lamp 53 during the full-screen presentation is that the panel lamp 53 is more closely related to the presentation on the liquid crystal screen than the various lamps 46 to 52. This is because the light emission process related to is performed. Therefore, during the full screen effect, the light emission process is first performed by the various lamps 46 to 52 so that the content of the effect is not disturbed as much as possible, and the light emission process by the panel lamp 53 is performed after the full screen effect is completed. Note that the light emission process in the special mode is positioned as the light emission process having the second highest priority after the error notification, and is given priority over the light emission processes of other effects.

  Step S960: The effect control CPU 126 executes a process of outputting a normal control signal other than the special mode. Specifically, as described above, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a normal control signal to the lamp driving circuit 132. In response to this, the lamp driving circuit 132 drives (turns on or off, blinks, changes in luminance gradation, etc.) the various lamps 46 to 52 and the panel lamp 53 based on the control signal.

[Acoustic drive processing]
FIG. 50 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the acoustic driving process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S970: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the special mode flag is ON. If the special mode flag is ON (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S972. If the special mode flag is OFF (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S974.

  Step S972: The effect control CPU 126 executes processing for instructing special mode sound data. When entering the special mode, a rush sound effect is always generated, and after entering, a BGM dedicated to the special mode is generated until a reach state occurs. Note that the sound processing in the special mode is positioned as the sound processing having the second highest priority after the error notification, and is given priority over the sound processing of other effects.

  Step S974: The effect control CPU 126 executes a process of instructing normal time sound data. Specifically, as described above, the production control CPU 126 gives the acoustic drive circuit 134 the content of the production (for example, BGM, audio data, etc. during the variable display production, the reach production, the mode transition production, the jackpot production, etc. ) Thereby, the sound according to the production content is output from the speakers 54, 55, and 56.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the special mode effect is executed when the total stored number of the first special symbol and the second special symbol reaches the predetermined maximum value and the mode is shifted to the special mode. If a big hit is made during the mode production, the premium big hit production will be executed. Therefore, the player can be motivated to increase the total number of memories to see the premium big hit production. The operating efficiency of the machine can be improved.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be implemented with various modifications. The aspect of the effect mentioned in one embodiment is an example, and is not limited to the aspect of the effect described above.

  The images given in other production examples are merely examples, and these can be appropriately modified. Further, the structure, board configuration, specific set values, etc. of the pachinko machine 1 are preferable examples including those shown in the figure, and it goes without saying that these can be appropriately modified.

  In the embodiment described above, the event generating means that can alternately generate the first event and the second event has been described in the example of the sorting device 200. However, the left start winning port 28a and the right start winning port 26 are simply left and right. You may employ | adopt the structure arrange | positioned along with. Even with such a structure, the first event and the second event can be generated alternately.

  In the embodiment described above, the number of operating memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol has been described as an example of displaying with the marker on the liquid crystal screen. However, the number of operating memories is displayed by turning on / off the LED lamp. May be. In this case, as LED lamps, eight LED lamps corresponding to the maximum total number of memories are prepared, and a red LED and a blue LED are arranged in each LED lamp. In normal times, the number of working memories is expressed by turning on / off the red LED, and turning on / off both the red LED and the blue LED from the time when the special mode is entered until the special mode is exited. A dedicated color (for example, purple) can be expressed.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Game board 8a Game area 20 Start gate 26 Right start prize port 28 Variable start prize device 28a Left start prize port 33 Normal symbol display device 33a Normal symbol operation memory lamp 34 1st special symbol display device 35 2nd special symbol Display device 34a First special symbol operation memory lamp 35a Second special symbol operation memory lamp 38 Game state display device 42 Liquid crystal display 70 Main control device 72 Main control CPU
74 ROM
76 RAM
124 Production control device 126 Production control CPU

Claims (9)

Lottery element acquisition means for acquiring the first lottery element or the second lottery element, respectively, when the first event or the second event occurs during the game;
When an internal lottery relating to a player's profit is performed using either the first lottery element or the second lottery element, the second lottery element corresponding to the first lottery element or the second lottery element is triggered by this. A symbol display means for suspending and displaying the first symbol or the second symbol in a manner representing the result of the internal lottery after the symbol or the second symbol is variably displayed over a predetermined variation time;
If the first event or the second event occurs before the start condition that enables the variable display of either the first symbol or the second symbol to be started by the symbol display means is acquired, the lottery element acquisition Lottery element storage means for storing the first lottery element or the second lottery element acquired by the means up to a predetermined upper limit number;
After the first symbol or the second symbol is changed and displayed by the symbol display means, both the first lottery element and the second lottery element are stored by the lottery element storage means at the time of stop display. If the first lottery element or the second lottery element is used, the internal lottery is executed in the order in which the first lottery element or the second lottery element is acquired, while only the first lottery element or the second lottery element is stored. Lottery execution means for executing the internal lottery using the stored first lottery element or the second lottery element;
Special game execution means for executing a special game to which a special condition different from normal is applied when the first symbol or the second symbol is stopped and displayed in a specific winning manner by the symbol display means;
Special game effect execution means for executing a special game effect corresponding to the special game when the special game is executed by the special game execution means;
After executing the variation display effect corresponding to the variation display of the first symbol or the second symbol by the symbol display means at least within the variation time, the symbol display means of the first symbol or the second symbol A symbol effect execution means for executing a stop display effect corresponding to the stop display;
Special mode transition means for shifting from the normal mode to the special mode when the total number of stored first lottery elements and the second lottery elements by the lottery element storage means reaches a predetermined maximum value;
When the special mode transition means shifts to the special mode, the special mode effect execution means for executing the special mode effect corresponding to the special mode in the variable display effect by the symbol effect execution means,
If the result of the internal lottery corresponds to winning during the execution of the special mode effect by the special mode effect execution means, the special game effect executed by the special game effect execution means is set to the normal effect content. A gaming machine comprising: special special game effect execution means for executing a special special game effect set to an effect content different from the normal special game effect instead of the normal special game effect. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
A gaming machine, further comprising a normal mode shifting means for shifting from the special mode transferred by the special mode shifting means to the normal mode when a specific condition is satisfied. The gaming machine according to claim 2,
The normal mode transition means includes
When the special mode transition means shifts to the special mode, the number of fluctuations corresponding to the number of fluctuation display and stop display times of the first symbol or the second symbol executed by the symbol display means is counted, When the counter value reaches a predetermined value, it is determined that the specific condition is satisfied. The gaming machine according to claim 3,
During the execution of the special mode effect by the special mode effect execution means, when the total stored number of the first lottery element and the second lottery element by the lottery element storage means has reached a predetermined maximum value,
The special mode transition means includes:
Performing a process for maintaining the special mode;
The normal mode transition means includes
A gaming machine characterized by resetting a counter value of the number of fluctuations corresponding to the number of times of fluctuation display and stop display of the first symbol or the second symbol executed by the symbol display means. The gaming machine according to claim 2,
A variation pattern determining means for selectively determining one of a plurality of variation patterns defined in advance for the variation display of the first symbol or the second symbol by the symbol display means;
When the variation pattern determined by the variation pattern determining means satisfies a predetermined specific reach occurrence condition, the specific reach effect executing means for executing the specific reach effect during execution of the variable display effect by the symbol effect executing means is further provided. Prepared,
The normal mode transition means includes
When the special mode transition means shifts to the special mode and the specific reach effect execution means executes the specific reach effect, it is determined that the specific condition is satisfied. A gaming machine. The gaming machine according to claim 2,
A variation pattern determining means for selectively determining one of a plurality of variation patterns defined in advance for the variation display of the first symbol or the second symbol by the symbol display means;
When the variation pattern determined by the variation pattern determination unit satisfies a predetermined reach generation condition, the variation pattern determination unit further includes a reach effect execution unit that executes a reach effect during execution of the variation display effect by the symbol effect execution unit,
The normal mode transition means includes
When the special mode transition means shifts to the special mode, when the reach effect is executed by the reach effect execution means and a predetermined mode shift lottery is won, the specific condition is satisfied. A gaming machine characterized by being judged to have In the gaming machine according to claim 5 or 6,
The normal mode transition means includes
Regarding the variable display of the first symbol or the second symbol by the symbol display means when the special mode transition means has shifted to the special mode, the specific condition is satisfied even if the specific condition is satisfied. A gaming machine characterized by not judging that the condition is satisfied. In the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
First storage display corresponding to increase / decrease in the number of memories of the first lottery element by the lottery element storage means, and second storage display corresponding to increase / decrease in the number of memories of the second lottery element by the lottery element storage means And a memory number display effect executing means for executing a memory number display effect by a mode in which the first lottery element or the second lottery element is arranged and displayed in the order in which they are acquired,
A first light effect executing means installed on the game board and executing an effect by light;
A second light effect executing means installed in the frame unit of the game board and executing an effect by light;
Sound production execution means for performing production by sound;
Image effect execution means for executing an effect by an image;
About the effect by the image executed by the image effect execution means, further comprises a determination means for determining whether or not the additional effect by the additional image can be executed,
The special mode effect executing means is
While the first symbol or the second symbol is variably displayed by the symbol display means, the special mode effect is executed in accordance with the transition from the normal mode to the special mode by the special mode transition means. If the determination means determines that the additional effect cannot be executed, the special mode is generated by the effects of the stored number display effect execution means, the second light effect execution means, and the sound effect execution means. Executing an effect, and executing the special mode effect by the effect of the first light effect executing means and the image effect executing means at the time of the variable display of the first symbol or the second symbol by the symbol display means. A featured gaming machine. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
About the result at the time of winning obtained by the internal lottery by the lottery executing means, a winning type defining means for prescribing a plurality of winning types including at least a specific winning type,
A winning type determining means for determining which of a plurality of winning types defined by the winning type defining means when a winning result is obtained in the internal lottery by the lottery executing means; ,
The special special game effect executing means is
A gaming machine characterized in that the special special game effect is executed when the result of the internal lottery corresponds to winning and the winning type determining means determines that the specified winning type is applicable.

Images