JP2012239832A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a technique for sufficiently securing the valid time of an operation input reception means, thereby effectively performing a presentation using the operation input reception means.SOLUTION: Not only the variation time (T1, T3, T5, T7, T9) of special symbols but also the stop-display time (T2, T4, T6, T8, T10) of the special symbols are set to time ranges of the valid time for validating the operation input of a presentation switch button. Thus, the operation input of the presentation switch can be received over the entire period from starting variation of the special symbols till stopping the variation of the special symbols, and from starting stop-display of the special symbols till ending the stop-display of the special symbols, and the valid time of the presentation switch button can be sufficiently secured. Thus, when performing the presentation using the presentation switch button over two or more times of variation of the special symbols, since the valid time of the presentation switch button is not interrupted, a longer valid period is secured.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that, when a lottery opportunity occurs during a game, displays a symbol in a manner that displays a result of a lottery after a symbol change display.

  Conventionally, as this type of gaming machine, there is known a technology that uses a production switching button to increase a player's participation consciousness in games and improve gaming properties (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). ). Here, the “effect switching button” is an effect button arranged on the front part of the gaming machine, and the player can change the contents of the effect by operating the effect switching button, or various notice effects. Etc. can be generated.

The technique of Patent Literature 1 stores the number of operations of the production operation means during a period when the operation effective period of the production operation means is not notified, and performs a specific production when the number of times reaches a certain value.
For this reason, according to the technique of Patent Document 1, the player is made to actively operate the production operation means, and in response to the expectation of the player who operated the production operation means in the hope that something will happen, It is thought that the interest of can be enhanced.

  In addition, the technique of Patent Document 2 uses the effect button to improve the gameability as in the technique of Patent Document 1, but an LED as a notification means is arranged inside the effect button. When this LED is lit, the player is notified that the pressing operation of the effect button is effective.

  Normally, the pressing of the effect button is a game operation to be performed while the LED arranged inside the effect button is lit, and when the effect button is pressed while the LED is lit, a predetermined effect is generated. (Effects by liquid crystal display device, sound effect, lamp, decoration LED, etc.) are executed. On the other hand, in the technique of Patent Document 2, even when the LED is not lit, it is effective to press the effect button, and when the effect button is pressed while the LED is not lit. A predetermined effect is to be executed.

  For this reason, according to the technique of Patent Document 2, when an effect button is pressed even though the LED is not lit, some effect may be executed, so-called hidden items (hidden buttons, back Button), and it is thought that the fun of the game can be enhanced.

JP 2008-86706 A JP 2004-129984 A

Each of the above-described prior arts has an advantage in that a novel effect is executed by using the effect switching button to improve the interest of the player.
However, even if such a novel effect is prepared, the effective time of the effect switch button may be hardly secured depending on the game situation. For example, when the special symbol working memory is the maximum value (4 or 8) or when the time is shifted to the time reduction state, the change time of the special symbol is shortened in principle, so the effect switching button is pressed. It can be said that almost no time can be secured, or an effect using the effect switching button is not executed in the first place (not selected as an effect pattern). For this reason, even if a novel effect using the effect switching button is prepared, there is a problem that these effects cannot be executed effectively.

  In addition, when the effect switching button is used as a trigger for the occurrence of the notice effect, such an effect is executed for a while after the start of the change of the special symbol, and the player is prompted to press the effect switching button. When the effect switching button is pressed, a notice effect that notifies the reliability for the big hit of the change is executed. In this case, the effective time of the effect switching button is not effective from the start of the special symbol variation to the end of the special symbol variation, but is valid only for a part of the time with the special symbol variation time. .

  This point is no exception in the above-described prior art, and the technique of Patent Document 1 sets the control internal parameter to “operation flag = 0” or “operation flag = 1” during one change. Thus, ON / OFF of the effective time of the effect switching button is switched. Similarly, in the technique of Patent Document 2, the LED in the effect button is turned on or off during one change. Therefore, the effective time of the effect button is limited even during the variation time of the special symbol, and if the variation time of the special symbol is shortened, there is a problem that the effective time of the effect switching button can hardly be secured.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of ensuring a sufficient effective time of the operation input receiving unit and effectively executing an effect using the operation input receiving unit.

The present invention employs the following means for solving the above problems. In addition, the wording in the following brackets is an illustration to the last, and this invention is not limited to this.
Solution 1: The gaming machine of the present invention, when a lottery opportunity occurs during a game, lottery execution means for executing an internal lottery related to a player's profit (for example, a profit that an operation opportunity of a variable winning device is generated); When the internal lottery is executed, a pattern (for example, a symbol visually recognized) is variably displayed over a predetermined fluctuation time as an opportunity, and an aspect representing the result of the internal lottery (for example, winning in advance) And a symbol display means for displaying the symbol in a stopped state (determined display) for a predetermined stop display time and a variation corresponding to the symbol variation display by the symbol display means within at least the variation time. After executing the display effect, the symbol effect executing means for executing the stop display effect corresponding to the stop display of the symbol by the symbol display means, and the symbol effect executing means The operation input accepting means for accepting the operation input related to the variable display effect (effect switching button, jog dial, etc.) and the time of both the symbol change time and the stop display time by the symbol display means are operated by the operation input accepting means. A gaming machine comprising effective time setting means for setting an effective time to validate an input.

A game by the gaming machine of the present invention proceeds, for example, along the flow shown below.
(1) When a lottery opportunity occurs during the game (occurrence of winning at the upper start winning opening, occurrence of winning at the lower starting winning opening), an internal lottery is performed (special symbol lottery). For this reason, the player plays a game with the first goal being to generate a prize at the upper start prize opening or the lower start prize opening which becomes the lottery opportunity.

(2) When the internal lottery of the above (1) is executed, the symbol (special symbol) is variably displayed over a predetermined fluctuation time, and the symbol is displayed for a predetermined stop display time (the symbol stop time) in a manner representing the result of the internal lottery. ) Will be stopped. It takes a certain amount of time (fluctuation time and stop display time) from the start of the symbol display to the stop display. Once the symbol display is started, the stop display is completed. The next lottery will not be held until
(3) Within the variation time of (2) above, a variable display effect (for example, a scroll display effect of an effect symbol on a liquid crystal display or an effect effect using a movable body) is executed. Within the stop display time, a stop display effect (for example, an effect symbol stop display effect) is executed.

(4) Operation input receiving means for receiving an operation input related to the variable display effect according to (3) is provided. Here, the “operation input regarding the variable display effect” is performed by an operation by the player in order to change the variable display effect according to the above (3) (for example, to generate or not generate a specific effect) ( For example, it is accepted (for example, by pressing an effect switching button). For this reason, the operation input receiving means acts on the effect display such as the display effect and the accessory effect on the liquid crystal display. Various input means such as an effect switching button, a jog dial, a touch sensor, and a touch panel can be applied to the operation input receiving means.

(5) The time of both the symbol variation time and the stop display time according to (2) is set as an effective time for validating the operation input according to (4). Here, the “valid time” refers to a time during which an operation input by the operation input accepting unit is valid, that is, a time during which an operation is effectively accepted by pressing an effect switching button or the like.

As described above, according to the present solution means, not only the symbol variation time, but also the symbol stop display time is set to the effective time in which the operation input by the operation input accepting means is valid. After the start of the symbol, the symbol stops changing, and thereafter, an operation input can be accepted over the entire period from the start of the symbol stop display time to the end of the symbol stop display time.
For this reason, the effective time of the operation input receiving means can be sufficiently ensured as compared with the conventional technique in which the effective time of the operation input receiving means is effective only for a certain part of the symbol variation time. This point is particularly effective when the symbol variation time is short (when shortened), and is also effective when performing an effect using the operation input receiving means across multiple symbol variations. As long as the memory exists, the effective time of the operation input receiving means is not interrupted, so that a longer effective period can be secured.

  Solution 2: The gaming machine according to the present invention is the solution 1, wherein the lottery element acquisition means for acquiring the lottery element to be used for the internal lottery by the lottery execution means when the lottery trigger occurs during the game, When the lottery trigger occurs before the start condition that allows the symbol display to be started by the symbol display means is satisfied, the lottery elements acquired by the lottery element acquisition means are acquired in the order of acquisition to a predetermined upper limit number. Using a lottery element storage means to store and an individual display individually representing the storage of the lottery elements stored by the lottery element storage means, a stored number display effect corresponding to the increase or decrease of the number of stored lottery elements is executed. When the lottery element is stored by the memorized number display effect execution means and the lottery element storage means, the lottery element is consumed before being consumed by the lottery execution means. Predetermining means for preliminarily determining at least the result of the internal lottery using the lottery element, and for the specific lottery element stored by the lottery element storage means, the prior determination result by the predetermining means is a specific condition. The lottery satisfying a specific condition is satisfied when the operation input receiving unit receives a predetermined number of operation inputs before the specific lottery element is consumed by the lottery executing unit. A gaming machine further comprising display mode change effect execution means for executing a display mode change effect for changing the display mode of the individual display corresponding to an element.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of this solution.
(1) When a lottery opportunity occurs during a game (a winning at the upper start winning opening, a winning at the lower starting winning opening), a lottery element for use in the internal lottery is acquired. In order to execute the internal lottery, a lottery opportunity must be generated as a precondition. For this reason, the player plays a game with the initial goal of generating this lottery opportunity. Lottery opportunities occur randomly (or accidentally or randomly). Thus, when a lottery opportunity occurs at random, a lottery element is acquired each time.

(2) If a lottery trigger occurs before a symbol start condition is satisfied (for example, the symbol is not changing and the previous change has occurred, the symbol stop display time has elapsed). The selected lottery elements are stored in the order of acquisition. However, a predetermined upper limit number (for example, four symbols per symbol if there are a plurality of symbols) is provided for the number of memories, and the number of memories does not increase beyond this upper limit.

(3) The stored number display effect corresponding to the increase / decrease of the stored number of lottery elements is executed using the individual display that individually represents the storage of the lottery elements stored in (2) above. Here, the individual display is a display corresponding to the storage of each lottery element. For example, if only one lottery element is stored, one individual display is displayed and the lottery element is stored. If there are four, four individual displays are displayed. And according to this memory | storage number display effect, since the information regarding a memory | storage number can be provided to a player based on the display mode, a player can use his / her own game strategy ( For example, it is possible to assemble a strategy (e.g., whether to continue launching a game ball or temporarily stop launching a game ball), and to advance the game efficiently.

(4) When the lottery element is stored in (2) above, the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance using the lottery element before the lottery element is consumed. Here, “consuming a lottery element” means using (using) a stored lottery element. When the lottery element is consumed, the lottery element disappears (is deleted). On the other hand, when the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance, the lottery element is not consumed.
(5) For the specific lottery element stored in (2) above, when the previous determination result in (4) satisfies a specific condition (for example, when it is determined in advance that it corresponds to winning, or specific fluctuation If it is determined in advance that the pattern is selected) and the operation input reception means receives more than the specified number of times before the specific lottery element is consumed, the specific condition is The display mode of the individual display corresponding to the lottery element to be satisfied is changed.

  As described above, according to the present solving means, when the operation input receiving means receives operation input more than the specified number of times until the lottery element satisfying the specific condition is consumed, the display mode of the individual display changes. Therefore, it is possible to give the player a motivation to participate in the game using the operation input receiving means, thereby providing surprise and fun. In this case, a lottery element that satisfies a specific condition will require a certain amount of time (several changes in symbols) until it is actually consumed. Input will be executed. Even in such a case, since the symbol variation time and the stop display time are set to valid times for validating the operation input by the operation input accepting means, the valid time of the operation input accepting means is sufficient. Thus, it is possible to effectively execute an effect using the operation input receiving means.

  Solution 3: The gaming machine according to the present invention provides a plurality of winning types including at least a first winning type and a second winning type in the winning means obtained in the internal lottery by the lottery executing means in the solving means 2. Winning type determining means that pre-determines and a winning result that determines which of a plurality of winning types specified by the winning type specifying means corresponds to a winning result obtained by the internal lottery by the lottery executing means When the symbol is stopped and displayed in a predetermined winning manner by the symbol display means, a special game executing means for executing a special game to which a special condition different from normal is applied, and the internal lottery After the special game is completed by the special game execution means when the result is a win and the win type determination means determines that the win is the first win type A transition to a high-probability state in which a transition is made from a low-probability state in which a winning is obtained with at least a normal probability to a high-probability state in which a winning is obtained with a higher probability than the low-probability state in the internal lottery performed by the lottery execution means And the special game by the special game executing means when the result of the internal lottery corresponds to the winning and the winning type determining means determines that the first winning type or the second winning type is applicable. After the end of, the time reduction to shift from the non-time reduction state where the lottery trigger occurs at least at a normal frequency to the time reduction state where the lottery opportunity can be generated at a higher frequency than this non-time reduction state A state transition means, wherein the stored number display effect execution means is at least a normal individual display and a normal individual display as the individual display. The first individual display that suggests that there is a high possibility of corresponding to the first winning type, and the second individual display that indicates that it is more likely to correspond to the second winning type than the normal individual display There is a result that the determination result in advance by the destination determination unit corresponds to either the first winning type or the second winning type for the specific lottery element stored by the lottery element storing unit. If it is obtained and a predetermined effect execution condition is satisfied, the stored number display effect is executed using the second individual display, and the display mode change effect executing means is configured such that the specific lottery element is the lottery. The operation input receiving means receives an operation input more than a specified number of times before being consumed by the execution means, and the previous determination result by the destination determination means corresponds to the first winning type. When the result is obtained and the predetermined performance execution condition is satisfied, the display mode of the second individual display is changed to the display mode of the first individual display, while the specific lottery element is changed by the lottery execution unit. A result is obtained that when the operation input receiving means receives a predetermined number of operation inputs or more before consumption, the previous determination result by the destination determination means corresponds to the second winning type. In the gaming machine, the display mode of the second individual display is maintained when a predetermined performance execution condition is satisfied.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of this solution.
(1) As for the winning results obtained by internal lottery, a plurality including at least the first winning type (10 rounds probable big hit, 16 rounds probable big hit) and the second winning types (10 round normal big hit, 16 round normal big hit) The winning types are pre-defined.
(2) When a winning result is obtained in the internal lottery, it is determined which of the plurality of winning types defined in (1) above is applicable.

(3) When a symbol is stopped and displayed in a predetermined winning mode, a special condition (for example, internal lottery and symbol variation is not performed) that is different from normal (for example, internal lottery and symbol variation is performed) is variable. A special game to which the winning device is continuously operated is executed. Special games basically correspond to jackpot games such as 10-round jackpot games and 16-round jackpot games, but there are jackpot games, etc. that are 16-round jackpots but can obtain substantially the same benefits as 10-round jackpot games. It is an included concept.

(4) If the result of the internal lottery corresponds to a win, and if it is determined to fall under the first win type according to (2) above, a high probability state in which the win probability of the internal lottery will be high after the special game ends It is transferred to.
(5) If the result of the internal lottery corresponds to a win, and it is determined that it falls under the first win type or the second win type according to (2) above, after the special game is over, the time is reduced from the non-time reduction state. It is transferred to.

(6) As individual displays, at least three types of displays (images and patterns) are prepared in advance. The first is a normal individual display, the second is a first individual display, and the third is a second individual display. Here, “normal individual display” is the display that is most frequently used during the game, and “first individual display” suggests that it is more likely to fall into the first winning type than the normal individual display. The “second individual display” is a display that suggests that there is a higher possibility of being in the second winning type than the normal individual display. For this reason, the player can watch the subsequent game development with more peace of mind when the “first individual display” is displayed than when the “second individual display” is displayed. When the result of the determination in advance corresponds to either the first winning type or the second winning type and the predetermined performance execution condition is satisfied (in the lottery lottery using the random number for the effect) In the case of winning), the stored number display effect is executed using the “second individual display”. For this reason, when the “second individual display” is displayed, it is possible to notify the player that “there is a possibility of falling into the second winning type”. In particular, if the internal state is a high probability state, the lottery element corresponding to the “second individual display” may be digested, and the high probability state may end through a special game thereafter. A tension can be given to the player.

(7) At this time, it is a case where an operation input more than the specified number of times is received by the operation input receiving means until a specific lottery element is consumed, and the prior determination result corresponds to the first winning type. When the result is obtained, an effect of changing the display mode of “second individual display” to the display mode of “first individual display” is executed. As a result, the display mode is changed (changed) from “second individual display”, which is highly tense for the player, to “first individual display”, which has a sense of security, and therefore, it corresponds to the second winning type. It can give the player a sense that the crisis has escaped. However, since such an effect is executed only when a predetermined effect execution condition is satisfied (when a lottery lottery using an effect random number is won), the “second individual display” to the “first individual display” are performed. Even if the display mode does not change, there is a possibility that the player may fall into the first winning type, and the player's disappointment when the display mode does not change to the “first individual display” may be alleviated. it can.

  On the other hand, it is a case where the operation input is received by the operation input receiving means more than the specified number of times until the specific lottery element is consumed, and the result of the previous determination corresponding to the second winning type Is obtained, the “second individual display” that is highly tense for the player is maintained. In this case, no matter how much the operation input accepting unit is operated, the display mode does not change in the “first individual display” with a sense of security, so there is still a risk that it may fall under the second winning type It can continue to give the player a sense of tension that he has not taken off. However, since such an effect is executed only when a predetermined effect execution condition is satisfied (when a lottery lottery with an effect random number is won), even if the “second individual display” is maintained, There is an effect of paying attention to the subsequent game development while leaving the slight hope that it falls under the first winning type.

  Solution 4: The gaming machine of the present invention is a game machine according to the present invention, wherein in the solution 1, when the lottery trigger occurs during the game, the lottery element acquisition means for acquiring the lottery element to be used for the internal lottery by the lottery execution means When the lottery trigger occurs before the start condition that allows the symbol display to be started by the symbol display means is satisfied, the lottery elements acquired by the lottery element acquisition means are acquired in the order of acquisition to a predetermined upper limit number. If the lottery element is stored by the lottery element storage means to be stored and the lottery element storage means, the lottery element is used at least for the internal lottery before the lottery element is consumed by the lottery execution means. A destination determination means for determining the result in advance and a specific determination by the destination determination means for the specific lottery element stored in the lottery element storage means. If the result satisfies a specific condition and the operation input receiving means receives an operation input more than a specified number of times before the specific lottery element is consumed by the lottery execution means, The gaming machine further includes suggestion effect execution means for executing an suggestion effect that suggests that the determination result in advance by the determination means satisfies a specific condition.

The following features are added to the gaming machine of this solution.
(1) When a lottery opportunity occurs during a game (a winning at the upper start winning opening, a winning at the lower starting winning opening), a lottery element for use in the internal lottery is acquired. In order to execute the internal lottery, a lottery opportunity must be generated as a precondition. For this reason, the player plays a game with the initial goal of generating this lottery opportunity. Lottery opportunities occur randomly (or accidentally or randomly). Thus, when a lottery opportunity occurs at random, a lottery element is acquired each time.

(2) If a lottery trigger occurs before the symbol start condition is satisfied (for example, the symbol is not changing and the previous change has been confirmed, the symbol stop display is confirmed) The acquired lottery elements are stored in the order of acquisition. However, a predetermined upper limit number (for example, four symbols per symbol if there are a plurality of symbols) is provided for the number of memories, and the number of memories does not increase beyond this upper limit.

(3) When a lottery element is stored in (2) above, the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance using the lottery element before the lottery element is consumed.
(4) For the specific lottery element stored in (2) above, when the previous determination result in (3) satisfies a specific condition (for example, when it is determined in advance that it is a win, or a specific fluctuation (When it is determined in advance that a pattern is selected), and when the operation input receiving means receives a predetermined number of times or more before the specific lottery element is consumed, (3) The suggestion effect that suggests that the determination result in advance satisfies a specific condition is executed. Here, the suggestion effect is an effect that suggests to the player that a specific condition is satisfied. For example, if it is determined in advance that the winning condition is true, it is an effect that suggests it (an accessory) If it is determined in advance that a specific variation pattern is selected, an effect on the liquid crystal screen (an effect that changes the display mode of the working memory marker) is suggested. Can be executed.

  As described above, according to the present solving means, when the operation input receiving means receives the operation input more than the specified number of times until the lottery element satisfying the specific condition is consumed, the specific condition is satisfied. Since the suggestion effect suggesting that the player is present is executed, the player can be motivated to participate in the game using the operation input receiving means, thereby providing surprise and fun. In this case, a lottery element that satisfies a specific condition will require a certain amount of time (several changes in symbols) until it is actually consumed. Input will be executed. Even in such a case, since the symbol variation time and the stop display time are set to valid times for validating the operation input by the operation input accepting means, the valid time of the operation input accepting means is sufficient. Thus, it is possible to effectively execute an effect using the operation input receiving means.

  Solution 5: The gaming machine according to the present invention is the game machine according to any one of the solutions 2 to 4, wherein the prior determination result by the destination determination unit is specific for the specific lottery element stored by the lottery element storage unit. The game machine further includes an operation input promotion effect executing means for executing an operation input promotion effect for prompting the player to perform an operation input by the operation input receiving means.

  The fact that the specific condition is satisfied is merely mechanically determined inside the gaming machine, and it is not enough for the player to know whether or not the specific condition is satisfied. In view of this, in the present solution means, when a specific condition is satisfied, the player is urged to perform an operation input by the operation input accepting means, thereby confirming that the specific condition is satisfied for the prior determination result. , And the user can be urged to input an operation by the operation input receiving means to improve the willingness to participate in the game.

  According to the gaming machine of the present invention, not only the symbol variation time but also the symbol stop display time is set to an effective time for enabling the operation input. Thus, it is possible to effectively execute an effect using the operation input receiving means.

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 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 a 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 showing the flow of reach production performed at the time of big hit (winning). It is a continuation figure which shows in part an example of a big-game effect performed during a big hit game in the case of “16 rounds probable big hit”. It is a continuation figure which shows the example of production of fireworks mode. It is a continuation figure showing the example of the presentation of the display mode change production performed in fireworks mode (1/3). It is a continuation figure which shows the example of the display mode change production performed in fireworks mode (2/3). It is a continuation figure which shows the example of an effect of the display mode change production performed in fireworks mode (3/3). It is a continuation figure which shows the example of the production of suggestion production performed in chance mode (1/3). It is a continuous figure which shows the example of the production | presentation of the suggestion production performed in chance mode (2/3). It is a continuation figure which shows the example of the production | presentation of the suggestion production performed in chance mode (3/3). 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 working memory production management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a destination determination effect selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a display mode change effect selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of suggestion effect selection processing. It is a timing chart which shows the change of the various states which occur through the game by a pachinko machine (embodiment). It is a timing chart which shows change of various states which occur through a game with a pachinko machine (comparative example). 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.

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, an upper starting winning port 26, a variable starting winning device 28, a variable winning device 30, 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, or the normal winning ports 22, 24, the upper starting winning port 26, and the variable starting winning device during operation. Win 28 (enter a ball). 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 lower 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 figure, the left and right movable pieces 28b are in the closed position with the tip facing upward, and at this time, winning to the lower start winning opening 28a is impossible (a state in which 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 lower 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 win to the lower 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.

  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 has, for example, one opening / closing member 30a, and this opening / closing member 30a reciprocates in the front-rear direction with respect to the board surface by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. As shown in the figure, the opening / closing member 30a is in the closed position (closed state) along the board surface, and at this time, winning in the big winning opening is always impossible (the big winning opening is closed). When the variable winning device 30 is operated, the opening / closing member 30a is displaced so as to fall forward with its lower end edge 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 game balls that have been driven into the game area 8 a including the game balls won in the upper 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).

  Further, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a have 0 to 4 each, for example, depending on a display mode constituted by a combination of extinction or lighting and blinking of two lamps (LEDs). Is stored (memory number display means). For example, in a display mode in which both lamps are turned off, 0 stored number is displayed, in a display mode in which one lamp is turned on, 1 stored number is displayed, and in a display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked. In the display mode in which two stored numbers are displayed, and in addition to blinking one lamp, the other lamp is lit, three stored numbers are displayed, and in the display mode in which the two lamps are flashed together, the stored number is four. For example, the individual is displayed.

  The first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is changed to the display mode after being incremented one by one in the sense of memorizing that a winning is generated each time a game ball flows into the upper start winning opening 26. (Up to a maximum of four), every time the change of the special symbol is started with the winning, the display mode is changed by one by one. Further, the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is displayed after being incremented by one in the sense of memorizing that a winning occurs every time a game ball flows into the variable starting winning device 28 (lower starting winning port). It changes to the mode (up to 4), and each time the change of the special symbol is started with the winning as a trigger, it changes to the display mode after decreasing 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 is already in the upper start winning opening 26 in a state where the first special symbol can start to change (when stopped). Even if a game ball flows in, the display mode does not change. In addition, when the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the variable start winning device 28 (lower start winning port) in a state where the second special symbol can already start to change (when stopped). Even if a game ball flows in, the display mode does not change. That is, the number of memories (maximum 4) represented by the display mode of each special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, 35a is the number of winnings that have not yet started to change in the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Represents.

  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) is installed inside the effect unit 40, and various effect images including an effect symbol corresponding to the special symbol are displayed on the liquid crystal display 42. 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 of the rolling stage 40e. At this time, the game ball that has flowed down from the rolling stage 40e to the ball discharge path 40f easily flows into the upper start winning opening 26 directly below the ball discharge path 40f. Become.

  In addition, a drive source (for example, a motor, a solenoid, etc.) is attached to the interior of the effect unit 40 together with a movable body 40g (for example, a heart-shaped ornament). The effect movable body 40g can execute an effect accompanied by an operation of a tangible object in addition to an effect using an image by the liquid crystal display 42 and an effect by a light emitter. Due to the effects using these movable bodies 40g, it is possible to demonstrate appealing power different from the effects using two-dimensional images. A production example using the movable body 40g will be described later.

[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. 4).

  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.

[Control configuration]
Next, a configuration related to control of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 4 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 an upper start winning port switch 80, a lower start winning port switch 82, and a count switch 84 corresponding to the upper 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 the winning of a game ball to the upper start winning port 26 and the variable start winning device 28 (lower 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 driving circuit 132 and the acoustic driving circuit 134 to emit various lamps 46 to 52 and the panel lamp 53. Or a process of actually outputting sound effects, voices, and the like from the speakers 54, 55, and 56.

  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, a panel board 138 is installed in the game board 8, and a movable body solenoid 57 is connected to the panel board 138 in addition to the panel lamp 53. The movable body solenoid 57 drives the movable body 40g via a link mechanism (not shown), for example. The driving signal from the lamp driving circuit 132 is applied to the panel lamp 53 and the movable body solenoid 57 via the panel electric decoration board 138, respectively.

  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.

  5 and 6 are flowcharts showing a procedure example 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. 6 (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 by another interrupt process (step S201 in FIG. 8). 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. 8), and therefore overlap (conflict) ) 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 in 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. 8). The contents of the interrupt management process will be described later.

[Power failure check processing]
FIG. 7 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 the normality of the checksum in the previous reset start process (FIG. 5).

[Interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing)]
Next, interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing) will be described. FIG. 8 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 upper starting winning port switch 80, the lower starting winning port switch 82, the count switch 84, and the 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 upper start winning opening switch 80, and the lower starting winning opening 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 upper start winning opening switch 80 or the lower starting winning opening 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 upper start winning port switch 80 or the lower 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 device) connected to the pachinko machine 1 is output. 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. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the switch input event process (step S204 in FIG. 8). Each procedure will be described below.

  Step S10: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input from the upper start winning opening switch 80 corresponding to the first special symbol (the first event is generated). 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 lower 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. 8).

[First special symbol memory update process]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol memory update process (step S12 in FIG. 9). 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. That is, the random number storage area of the RAM 76 is divided into four sections (for example, 2 bytes each) for each symbol (first special symbol, second special symbol), and each section contains a big hit decision random number and a big hit symbol random number. Each can be stored as a set. At this time, if the value of the working memory number counter corresponding to the first special symbol has reached the upper limit (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 9). 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. 8).

  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: Further, 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 random number values related to the variation condition of the first special symbol. 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 to the random number storage area corresponding to the first special symbol, and these random numbers are stored in the empty section in the area. To memorize as a set. The order (for example, first to fourth) is set in the plurality of sections. If all the first to fourth 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 fourth sections are empty, the random numbers are stored in order from the second section. 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 in operation of the time reduction function or whether it is a big hit. If the time reduction function is not in operation other than the big hit (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following steps S37 and S38. If the time reduction function is in operation or 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. Also, except during the big hit, when both the working memory of the first special symbol and the working memory of the second special symbol remain, the variation of the second special symbol is prioritized over the first special symbol (the second special symbol of the second special symbol) This is because the variable start winning device 28 is operated at a high frequency particularly during the operation of the time shortening function. In addition, while the time shortening function is activated, the special symbol variation time is shortened, and the normal symbol winning probability is high (for example, low probability is about 25/251 → about 249/251), and In addition, 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 not in operation → 2 .5 seconds), and the number of times of release increases (for example, increases from 1 to 2 when not in operation), so that the game ball can be fired for a long time (all memory of normal symbols is interrupted and variable) As long as the change of the second special symbol is prioritized, the operation memory is less likely to be interrupted (so-called electric chew support) unless the start winning device 28 is interrupted for a period of time until the operation is stopped. However, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be determined (fluctuated) in the order in which the prizes are generated, without providing a priority order. Note that step S36 may be divided into two steps, for example, step S36a for determining “time reduction function in operation” and step S36b for determining “big hit”.

  Step S37: When the time shortening function is not activated (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. 9).

[Second special symbol memory update process]
Next, FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol memory update process (step S16 in FIG. 9). 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. 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 working memory number counter reaches the maximum value (for example, 4) (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 9). 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. 10), the lighting state of the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is controlled in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 8) 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 value is the same as that in step S32 (FIG. 10) 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. 10) 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. The acquisition of these random values is also performed in the same manner as step S34 (FIG. 10) 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 to the random number storage area corresponding to the second special symbol, and these random numbers in the empty section in the area To memorize as a set. The storage method is the same as step S35 (FIG. 10) 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, it is determined only in the previous step S45a whether or not the big hit is made, and the operating state of the time reduction function is not determined. As described above, in the present embodiment, in the game other than the big hit, the first special In order to change the second special symbol over the symbol, the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance for the second special symbol, regardless of the operating state of the time reduction function, except during the big hit, and the result is pre-readed. This is because it can be used. 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. 9).

[Acquisition process during acquisition]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of the effect determination process at the time of acquisition. 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. 10 and step S46 in FIG. 11) (predetermined determination). Execution means). As described above, this process is executed for each of the first special symbol (when winning the upper 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. 10) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 11). .

  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 deviation pattern information pre-determination process (first determination unit). 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. 10) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 11). 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. 10) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 11). 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 a big hit hour variation pattern information pre-determination process (first determination unit). 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. 10) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 11).

[Special design game processing]
Next, the details of the special symbol game process executed in the interrupt management process (FIG. 8) will be described. FIG. 13 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 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 a special symbol is stopped and displayed in a 16-round big hit mode, an opportunity to shift from a normal state until then to a 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, 10 times, 16 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 16 times, these may be collectively referred to as “16 rounds”. In the present embodiment, not only 16 round jackpots but also a plurality of types of 10 round jackpots are provided as jackpot types. In addition, for 16 round big hits and 10 round big hits, a plurality of winning types (winning symbols) are 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. 8). 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 reduction state”, the time reduction function is activated, and the normal symbol operation lottery has a high probability as described above, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened, and the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is extended. As a result, the number of times of opening increases (so-called electric Chu support is performed). 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 “16 round jackpot”, for example, (1) “16 round probability variable jackpot” and (2) “16 round normal (non-probability) jackpot” are provided as a plurality of winning types (this) There may be more). In addition to these “16 round jackpots”, in this embodiment, (3) “10 rounds probable big hit” and (4) “10 round normal (non-probable) big wins” are provided as a plurality of winning types ( 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, “16 round probability variation jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “16 round probability variation symbol”, and “16 round normal jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “16 round regular symbol”. Further, “10 round probability variation jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “10 round probability variation symbol”, and “10 round normal symbol jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “10 round regular symbol bonus”. Therefore, hereinafter, the “winning type” will be appropriately referred to as “winning symbol”.

[16 round normal design]
First, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “16 round normal symbol” mode in the above special symbol stop display processing, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state occurs (first special symbol). 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 16th round. For this reason, the “16-round normal symbol” jackpot game gives 16 rounds of award (prize balls) to the player. 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.

[16 rounds probable design]
Alternatively, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “16-round probability variation symbol” mode in the previous special symbol stop display processing, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state occurs (first 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 16th round. Each of these “16-round probable symbols” jackpot games also gives the player 16 balls (prize balls) for 16 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.

[10 round normal design]
In the above special symbol stop display process, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of “10 round normal symbols”, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state occurs (second special game execution) means). In this case, the winning opening is opened once for a sufficiently long time from the first round (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds), and this continues until the tenth round. For this reason, in the “10 round normal symbol” jackpot game, 10 rounds of winning balls (prize balls) are given to the player. 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.

[10-round probable design]
Alternatively, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “10-round probability variation symbol” mode in the previous special symbol stop display processing, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state occurs (second special game) Execution means). In this case, the winning opening is opened once for a sufficiently long time from the first round (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds), and this continues until the tenth round. Each of these “10-round probable symbols” jackpot games also gives the player 10 balls (prize balls) for 10 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.

  In any case, if the winning symbol falls under any of the above “16-round probability variation symbol” or “10-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 “16 round probability variation symbol” or “10 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 falls into either of the above “16 round normal symbol” or “10 round normal symbol”, the internal state will be the normal probability state (low probability state) after the big hit game ends. Return to). Needless to say, if the internal lottery is won in the normal probability state and falls into either “16 round normal symbol” or “10 round normal symbol”, the internal state is maintained in the normal probability state even after the big hit game ends.

[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. That is, if the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit state in the previous special symbol stop display processing, the game (variable winning a prize) in the normal probability state or the high probability state. A game in which the device 30 operates) is executed. In such a small win game, the variable winning device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, twice), but hardly wins a big winning opening. 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). In the present embodiment, the game specification for setting a small hit is used, but it may be a game specification for not setting a small hit.

[Special symbol change pre-treatment]
FIG. 14 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. 8). 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 preferentially reads out the lottery random numbers (big hit determination random number, big hit symbol random number) stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76, which corresponds to the second special symbol. 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. When the random number corresponding to the second special symbol is not stored, the main control CPU 72 reads the random number corresponding to the first special symbol and stores it in the temporary storage area. Each random number stored in the temporary storage area is used for internal lottery in the next jackpot determination process. As a result, in the present embodiment, the variable display of the second special symbol is preferentially performed over the first special symbol. In addition, the program which reads a random number in the order memorize | stored simply may be sufficient, without providing the priority order according to such special symbols. 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. 8). . 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. 8).

  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 selection 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 reduction state”, except for the case where reach fluctuation is basically performed, the fluctuation time at the time of disconnection is set to a shortened time (for example, about 2.0 seconds) (shortening fluctuation time determination means) ). Even if not in the “time shortening state”, the fluctuation time at the time of losing is shortened based on, for example, “the number of operating memories at the start of fluctuation display (0 to 3)” set in step S2200, except when the reach fluctuation is performed. (For example, the number of working memories at the start of variable display 0 to about 12 seconds, the number of working memories at the start of variable display 1 to about 10 seconds, the number of working memories at the start of variable display 2 to about 4 seconds, The number of working memories at the start of variable display is 3 → about 2 seconds). 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 main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined fluctuation time (at the time of disconnection) in the fluctuation 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. 15 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) (fluctuation 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. Note that such a variation pattern selection table is also used in the prior determination process of the acquisition effect determination process (FIG. 12) (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.

[See Fig. 14: 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 of breakdown are “10 round normal symbol”, “16 round normal symbol”, “10 round probability variable symbol”, and “16 round probability variable symbol”. Note that each of the four types of winning symbols may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, “10 round normal symbol”, “10 round normal symbol 1”, “10 round normal symbol 2”, “10 round normal symbol 3”, and so on.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, the selection ratio of the winning symbol selected at the time of the big winning of the internal lottery corresponding to each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is different. For this reason, the main control CPU 72 distinguishes the winning symbol to be selected 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. 16 is a diagram showing a configuration column of the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. When the result of this big hit corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 refers to the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means) shown in FIG. decide.

  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 “25”, “5”, “60”, “10” is the denominator. Is equivalent to the ratio when 100 is 100. In the second column from the left, “10 round normal symbol”, “16 round normal symbol”, “10 round probability variable symbol”, and “16 round probability variable symbol” corresponding to each distribution value are shown. That is, at the big hit corresponding to the first special symbol, the ratio of “10 round normal symbol” being selected is 25/100 (= 25%), and the proportion of “16 round normal symbol” being selected is 100 minutes. Of 5 (= 5%). Further, the rate at which the “10-round probability variable symbol” is selected is 60/100 (= 60%), and the rate at which the “16-round probability variable symbol” is selected is 10/100 (= 10%). 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 “10 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.

[Time reduction]
In the fourth column (right column) from the left of the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the value of the number of short times (limit number) given after the big hit game is ended is shown. Specific values for the number of time reductions are as follows.

In the case of “10 round normal symbol” or “16 round normal symbol”, the number of time reductions is given 100 times.
In the case of “10 round probability variation” or “16 round probability variation”, the number of time reductions is given 10,000 times.

[2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 17 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 refers to the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table (winning type defining means) shown in FIG. decide.

  Also in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the distribution value for each winning symbol, and each distribution value is “10”, “20”, “30”, “40”. Corresponds to the ratio when the denominator is 100. Similarly, in the second column from the left, “10 round normal symbol”, “16 round normal symbol”, “10 round probability variable symbol”, and “16 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 selecting “10 round normal symbol” is 10/100 (= 10%), and the rate of selecting “16 round normal symbol” is It is 20/100 (= 20%). In addition, the rate at which “10 round probability variation” is selected is 30/100 (= 30%), and the rate at which “16 round probability variation” is selected is 40/100 (= 40%). Therefore, also for the second special symbol, the selection ratio of the probability variation symbol as a whole is 70%.

  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. 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 second special symbol, and “10 round normal symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command will be described as “B2H00H”. .

  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.

[Time reduction]
The fourth column from the left (right column) of the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table shows the value of the number of short hours given after the big hit game ends. Specific values for the number of time reductions are as follows. In addition, about the number of time saving given, it is the same as the case where it is a big hit with the 1st special symbol.
In the case of “10 round normal symbol” or “16 round normal symbol”, the number of time reductions is given 100 times.
In the case of “10 round probability variation” or “16 round probability variation”, the number of time reductions is given 10,000 times.

  Note that the selection ratio of the winning symbol differs 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 in this embodiment, since the memory about the second special symbol is preferentially consumed over the first special symbol, especially if the selection ratio of “16 round probability variation big hit” is increased for the second special symbol, The “high probability state” and the “time reduction state” make it easier to win the “16 rounds probable big hit”, so there is an advantage that the player's profit can be increased accordingly.

[See Fig. 14: 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, if the result of the internal lottery corresponds to 16 round big hits (16 round normal big hits or 16 rounds probable big hits) or 10 round big hits (10 round normal big hits or 10 rounds probable big hits), It is assumed that control is performed to generate a “effect” and make a big hit. The “Big Bonus Winning Variation Pattern Selection Table” defines variation patterns corresponding to multiple types of “reach production”, and if one hits 16 rounds or 10 rounds, one of them is selected. Will be selected. The reach production includes various reach production such as normal reach production, long reach production, super reach production, and the like. In addition, when winning with the time reduction function activated, a variation pattern having a short variation time (a variation pattern not performing reach production) is selected without selecting a variation pattern having a long variation time. May be. In this case, it is necessary to prepare a variation pattern selection table for each internal state and for each special symbol. The same applies to the variation pattern selection table at the time of loss.

[Example of variation pattern selection table when winning big hits]
FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of the variation pattern selection table for winning a big hit.
This selection table is a table used when winning 16 rounds or 10 rounds (big change pattern definition means, variable time definition 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)”. “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. Note that such a variation pattern selection table is also used in the prior determination process of the acquisition effect determination process (FIG. 12).

  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.

[See Fig. 14: 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 that the game state flag is selected if the winning symbol type (hit stop symbol number) determined in the previous step S2410 is “10 round probability variation symbol” or “16 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). In addition, when the type of the winning symbol determined in the previous step S2410 is either “10 round normal symbol” or “16 round normal symbol”, the main control CPU 72 determines the value of the probability variation function operation flag as the gaming state flag. Are reset (low probability state setting means, low probability state transition means).

  Further, the main control CPU 72 determines that the winning symbol type (stop symbol number at the time of big hit) determined in the previous step S2410 is “10 round normal symbol”, “16 round normal symbol”, “10 round probability variation symbol”, “16 round probability variation”. In any case, the main control CPU 72 sets the value (01H) of the time shortening function operation flag as a game state flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 (time shortening state transition means, time shortening function operation means).

  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 or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200 (variation pattern selection 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, the reach variation pattern can be selected in the case of a small hit, or a variation pattern equivalent to that in the normal variation can be 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.

[Figure 13: 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 (step S2404, step S2407, and step S2410 in FIG. 14). 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. 19 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol storage area shift process. When the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol is greater than “0” in the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing (step S2100: Yes in FIG. 14), 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 checks whether or not the value of the operation memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol that is preferentially consumed is “0”. At this time, if the value of the operation memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol is “1” or more (No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S2212.

  Step S2212: The main control CPU 72 designates the second special symbol as a special symbol for shifting the storage area. This designation is performed, for example, by setting “02H” as the target symbol designation value.

  Step S2214: On the other hand, when the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol is “0” (step S2210: Yes), the main control CPU 72 uses the first special symbol as a special symbol to be shifted in the storage area. Is specified. 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 for the target special symbol designated in either step S2212 or step S2214. The details of the specific processing are as already described in the previous special symbol change pre-processing.

  Step S2218: Next, the main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the operation memory counter for the target special symbol. For example, if the target to shift the current storage area 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 also checks whether or not the special symbol to be shifted in the current storage area is the second special symbol.
Step S2224: When the target is the second special symbol (step S2222: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the working command when the number of working memories is reduced for 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: If the current target is the first special symbol (Step S2222: No), the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command for reducing the number of working memories regarding 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. 14).

[Special symbol stop display processing]
Next, FIG. 20 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. 13) 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 and a stop display time end command. The symbol stop command and the stop display time end command are 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. The “stop display time end command” is a command indicating that the stop display time of the special symbol has ended (elapsed).

  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. 14). For example, if the type of jackpot symbol is “16 round normal symbol” or “16 round probability variation symbol”, the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing “16 rounds”. In the case of “10 round normal symbol” or “10 round probability variation symbol”, the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing “10 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 “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 the case where 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. 21 is a flowchart illustrating a configuration example of the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 8) 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 “16 rounds”, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38b representing “16 rounds (16R)”. Further, if the value of the continuous operation number command designates “10 rounds”, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38a representing “10 rounds (10R)”.

[Variable winning device management process]
Next, details of the variable winning device management process will be described. FIG. 22 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. 23 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. 13). The interval time between rounds is set to about several seconds (for example, 2 seconds to 2.5 seconds) for “10 round symbols” and “16 round symbols”, for example. Note that the number of counts in one round (maximum number of winnings) is, for example, 9 for all winning symbols, but winnings rarely occur during an extremely short opening (about 0.1 seconds) ( 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. 14). Specifically, if the large category “16 round symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to 16 times. If “10 round symbols” is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to ten. The number of execution rounds set here is stored as a corresponding value on the program (“9” for 10 times, “15” for 16 times), for example, in the buffer area of RAM 76.

  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. 24 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 special winning opening release pattern setting process (step S5208 or step S5216 in FIG. 23) 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. Note that the release at the time of the small hit is that the value of the release timer is set to a short time, and therefore, the main control CPU 72 normally confirms that the count number has reached the predetermined number in step S5310 before step S5306. In most cases, it is determined that the opening time has ended.

  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 the count-down of the interval timer set in the above-described special winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5210 or step S5218 in FIG. 23). 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. 25 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 the big winning opening opening / closing operation process which is the next jump destination in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 22). 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 (10 times or 16 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. 23). 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 the big winning opening opening / closing operation process which is the next jump destination in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 22). Then, after the execution of the special prize opening / closing operation process, the main control CPU 72 executes the special prize opening closing process again through the execution of the special prize opening closing process, and goes through the above steps S5401 to S5413 (No) to step S5416. Step S5408 is repeatedly executed. 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. 26 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. 14) 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. 14) during the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing.

  Step S5512: If the value of the time reduction function operation flag is set (step S5510: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the number of time reductions (for example, about 100 times or about 10,000 times). 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. 13) 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. 27 is a continuous diagram showing an example of an effect image corresponding to the change display and stop display of special symbols. 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. 27 (A): For example, in a state before the first special symbol starts to change (a state in which 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, a marker (reference numerals M1 and M2 in the figure) indicating the number of working memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. 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 such that the marker M1 corresponding to the first special symbol is displayed, for example, as a circle (◯), and the marker M2 corresponding to the second special symbol is, for example, a heart. It is displayed as a figure. In the example of FIG. 27A, all four markers M1 are lit and displayed, indicating that the number of working memories of the first special symbol is four, and all the markers M2 are not displayed (indicated by broken lines). ) Indicates that the number of working memories of the second special symbol is 0 (stored number display effect executing means).

  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 “10 round big hit” or “16 round big hit” instead of “out of”, the 4th pattern is displayed in a manner corresponding to them (for example, blue display color or red display color). Z1 and Z2 are stopped and displayed.

[Variable display production start]
27B: For example, in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol, the fluctuation display effect is started by scrolling the three symbol rows on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (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. 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]
(C) in FIG. 27: For example, when a certain amount of time (about half of the fluctuation time) has elapsed, the left effect symbol 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 (B) of FIG. 27, 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. 27, since the first operation memory in the storage order is consumed and the remaining number becomes three, the three markers M1 remaining on the screen are each one by one. An effect of shifting in the direction (here left direction) is performed. 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. 27 (D): Following the left effect symbol, the right effect symbol thereafter stops changing. 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. 27: 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.

[Production example at the time of big hit]
FIG. 28 is a continuous diagram showing the flow of reach production executed at the time of a big hit (winning). Here, in addition to the reach effect, a variable display effect, a stop display effect, and a notice effect are included. An example of the result display effect in the case where it is not disclosed that it corresponds to “probability big hit (specific type)” will be described. 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, the first special symbol display device 34 (or the second special symbol display device 35 may be used), after the variation display by the variation pattern at the time of the big hit is performed, the first special symbol is “10 round big hit” Stopped in the “16 round big hit” mode (eg 7-segment LED “self”, “yo”, “mouth”, “」 ”,“ F ”,“ E ”,“ L ”,“ Γ ”, etc.) It is executed until In FIG. 28, each effect symbol is simplified and shown only with numerals. 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]
(A) in FIG. 28: In line with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol (or the second special symbol), the columns of the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol are vertically displayed on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. 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. 28: Next, in a relatively early stage of the variable display effect, the first stage pre-reach notice effect using the character 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)]
(C) in FIG. 28: After the first stage of the pre-reach notice effect is executed, the change in 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]
(D) in FIG. 28: 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.

[Occurrence of reach condition]
In FIG. 28 (E): Subsequently 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.

[Preliminary notice after reach occurs (first time)]
In FIG. 28, (F): After a reach state has occurred, for example, an image representing a “heart” figure forms a group, and a post-reach notice effect (first time) is performed that passes 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 visually lively reach occurs, the player can have an even greater expectation.

[Progress of reach production]
(G) in FIG. 28: Following the notice 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. 28 (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. 28 (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, because the winning symbol internally corresponds to “16 rounds probable big hit”, the effect symbol representing the odd number “7” in the effect is stopped and displayed at the center of the screen.

  In FIG. 28 (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. Further, in this case, the fourth symbol Z1 or the fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, red display color) corresponding to “16 round probability variation 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 during big role]
FIG. 29 is a continuous diagram partially showing an example of the big-bore effect performed during the big hit game in the case of “16 rounds probable big hit”.

[At the start of one round]
29 (A): When the first round of the jackpot game is started, for example, character information corresponding to the number of rounds of “ROUND1” is displayed on the screen, and an effect image unique to the jackpot game (for example, Female character) is displayed. 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. Thus, 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 “16 rounds probable big hit”.

[16 rounds]
(B) in FIG. 29: After that, the big hit game proceeds smoothly and shifts to the final 16 rounds. At this time, character information corresponding to the number of rounds of “ROUND16” is displayed on the screen, and a unique effect image is displayed during the big hit game. In the lower right corner position of the screen, the effect symbol (number “7”) as the “remaining eye” is continuously displayed.

[At the end of a major role]
In FIG. 29 (C): At the timing when the big hit game ends (during the end process), the big end effect of the content teaching the internal state to be transferred thereafter is executed. In the example shown in the figure, the text information “Probability change mode has entered!” 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” and the “time reduction state” as a privilege after the big hit game ends.

[Example of fireworks mode]
FIG. 30 is a continuous diagram illustrating an example of an effect in the fireworks mode. This fireworks mode is a mode that is shifted to after a big game when it corresponds to “10-round probability variation big hit” or “16 round probability variation big hit”, and corresponds to “high probability state” and “time reduction state”. Hereinafter, the flow of production will be described in order.

  In FIG. 30, (A): For example, by performing the first variation display after the end of the big hit game, the variation display of the effect symbol is performed in the “fireworks mode” state. The background image of the fireworks mode is a background image that expresses "a scene where fireworks are launched in the night sky" and "a female character watching fireworks" in order to deeply impress the player with the motif of fireworks It has become. Further, the fourth symbol Z1 is variably displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.

  In FIG. 30, (B): Since the first change (when not winning) after the end of the big hit game, all effect symbols are stopped and displayed ("3"-"1"-"7 "). The fourth symbol Z1 is stopped and displayed in a non-winning manner (for example, white display color).

  In FIG. 30, (C): When the next fluctuation is started, the second fluctuation display is performed after the end of the big hit game. And this “fireworks mode” is continued until the next big hit is won (actually, it is only 10,000 fluctuations, but the probability that the fireworks mode will continue further is a very low probability) . In the illustrated example, the variation display of the effect symbol accompanying the variation display of the first special symbol is shown. However, in the time shortening state, the variable start winning device 28 is frequently operated, so Unless the launch is stopped, the variation display of the second and subsequent times after the end of the big hit game is often the variation display of the effect symbol accompanying the variation display of the second special symbol.

[Examples of display mode change effects]
FIGS. 31 to 33 are continuous diagrams showing an example of the display mode change effect performed in the fireworks mode. In the present embodiment, the “display mode change effect” is an effect that teaches the player the expected degree of winning in the probability variation symbol by changing the display mode of the marker M2 representing the number of working memories. Hereinafter, the flow of production will be described in order.

  FIG. 31 (A): For example, the effect symbol variation display effect is performed in a state where the game in the fireworks mode has progressed to some extent. At this time, all four markers M1 are lit and displayed, indicating that the number of working memories of the first special symbol is four, and two markers M2 are lit and displayed to indicate the second special symbol. It shows that the number of working memories of the symbol is two. Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is variably displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.

In FIG. 31, (B): Since the current variation is completed, all effect symbols are stopped and displayed ("1"-"1"-"5"). The fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a non-winning manner (for example, white display color).
At this time, when the number of working memories of the second special symbol has increased by two (specifically, the winning to the lower start winning opening 28a has occurred twice in succession), two markers M2 are lit and displayed. Production is performed. For such an effect, for example, when the marker M2 is newly displayed at a position where the marker M2 has not been displayed before, the operation memory corresponding to the second special symbol has been increased by two to the player on the effect. This is done for the purpose of teaching.

  In the illustrated example, the rightmost marker M2 is displayed by a second individual display M2b (for example, a mark imitating a skull pattern).

Here, the individual display used in the memory number display effect and the display mode change effect will be described.
In the present embodiment, three types of displays (images) are prepared in advance as individual displays. The first is a normal individual display (heart pattern), the second is a first individual display (diamond pattern), and the third is a second individual display (skull pattern). Here, the “normal individual display” is the display that is used most frequently during the game, and the “first individual display” is a display that suggests that there is a higher possibility of falling into a probable big hit than the normal individual display. The “second individual display” is a display that suggests that there is a higher possibility of hitting the normal big hit than the normal individual display.
For example, in the case of “normal individual display”, if it is a big hit, it is assumed that it corresponds to a probability variation big hit with a probability of “50%”. In the case of the “second individual display”, if a big hit is made, the probability can be assumed to be a probable big hit with a probability of “20%”. For this reason, the player can watch the subsequent game development with more peace of mind when the “first individual display” is displayed than when the “second individual display” is displayed.

  In this regard, in the example shown in the figure, since the display by the “second individual display M2b” is performed, if it remains as it is, “there may be a second winning type” is transmitted to the player. Can do. Regarding the fireworks mode, since the internal state is a high probability state, the lottery element corresponding to the “second individual display M2b” may be digested, and the high probability state may end through a special game thereafter. It can give the player that there is no tension.

In FIG. 31, (C): The change display effect of the effect symbol is performed in accordance with the change of the next second special symbol. Then, since the first operation memory in the storage order is consumed and the remaining operation memory of the second special symbol becomes three, three markers M2 (including the second individual display M2b) remaining on the screen are displayed. There is an effect that each one is shifted in one direction (here, left direction). Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is variably displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.
At this time, an operation input promotion effect is executed on the upper part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. The operation input promotion effect is an effect that prompts the player to input an operation using the effect switching button 45. Specifically, a band-like image on which a plurality of characters “PUSH !!” is displayed is displayed. By this operation input promotion effect, it can be transmitted to the player that the effect switching button 45 is repeatedly pressed (so-called continuous hitting).

  In FIG. 32 (D): Since the current variation is completed, all effect symbols are stopped and displayed ("7"-"2"-"6"). The fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a non-winning manner (for example, white display color). It is assumed that the operation input promotion effect is continuously executed and the player repeatedly presses the effect switching button 45.

  (E) in FIG. 32: A change display effect of the effect symbol is performed in accordance with the change of the next second special symbol. Then, since the first operation memory in the storage order is consumed and the remaining operation memory of the second special symbol becomes two, two markers M2 (including the second individual display M2b) remaining on the screen are displayed. There is an effect that each one is shifted in one direction (here, left direction). Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is variably displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.

  In FIG. 32 (F): Since the current variation has been completed, all effect symbols are stopped and displayed ("8"-"5"-"1"). The fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a non-winning manner (for example, white display color). Here again, it is assumed that the operation input promotion effect is continuously executed, and the player repeatedly presses the effect switching button 45.

  In FIG. 33 (G): A change display effect of the effect symbol is performed in accordance with the change of the next second special symbol. Then, since the first operation memory in the storage order is consumed and the remaining operation memory of the second special symbol becomes one, one marker M2 (only the second individual display M2b) remaining on the screen is 1 There is an effect that shifts in one direction (here, left direction) one by one. Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is variably displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. Here again, it is assumed that the operation input promotion effect is continuously executed, and the player repeatedly presses the effect switching button 45.

In FIG. 33 (H): Since the current variation is completed, all effect symbols are stopped and displayed ("3"-"4"-"9"). The fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a non-winning manner (for example, white display color).
At this time, it is assumed that the number of operation inputs of the effect switching button 45 has reached the specified number, and here, it is assumed that the lottery element corresponding to the second individual display M2b has been determined in advance to correspond to the probability big hit.
Then, the display mode of the second individual display M2b is changed to the display mode of the first individual display M2a (for example, a mark imitating a diamond pattern) (display mode change effect execution means).
As a result, the display mode changes from “second individual display M2b”, which is highly tense for the player, to “first individual display M2a”, which has a sense of security. A feeling that the player has taken off can be given to the player.

  In FIG. 33 (I): In accordance with the next change of the second special symbol, the change display effect of the effect symbol is performed. Then, the working memory at the head in the memory order is consumed, and the remaining working memory of the second special symbol is lost, so that the effect of deleting all the markers M2 on the screen is performed. Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is variably displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.

  In FIG. 33 (J): The left effect symbol and the right effect symbol are simultaneously stopped and displayed. At this time, a reach state of the numbers “7”-“being changed”-“7” is generated in a horizontal line (on one line) on the screen. On the screen, an image that emphasizes one line that is in a reach state is also displayed. As described above, when the reach state is generated with the effect symbol “7”, it is possible to give the player a sense of security and satisfaction. In addition, after this, the reach effect mentioned above is performed and the effect that it becomes a big hit is performed.

  As for the jackpot effect during the fireworks mode, it may be a big hit through each reach effect described above, but a specific reach effect shortened from each reach effect described above (for example, a specific character is gradually displayed larger and maximum It is also possible to make a big hit through an effect that will be a big hit if it is displayed in the big picture as much as possible.

33 (K): On the other hand, when the number of operation inputs of the effect switching button 45 has not reached the specified number of times, or when the number of operation inputs of the effect switching button 45 has reached the specified number of times, this corresponds to the second individual display M2b. When it is determined in advance that the lottery element corresponds to a normal (non-probable change) jackpot, the display mode of the second individual display M2b is maintained as it is.
In this case, it is possible to continue to give the player a sense of tension that the crisis that may be a normal jackpot has not yet been removed.

  In FIG. 33 (L): A change display effect of the effect symbol is performed in accordance with the change of the next second special symbol. Then, the working memory at the head in the memory order is consumed, and the remaining working memory of the second special symbol is lost, so that the effect of deleting all the markers M2 on the screen is performed. Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is variably displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.

  In FIG. 33 (M): The left effect symbol and the right effect symbol are simultaneously stopped and displayed. At this time, a reach state of the numbers “4”-“being changed”-“4” is generated in a horizontal line (on one line) on the screen. On the screen, an image that emphasizes one line that is in a reach state is also displayed. In this way, when the reach state is generated with the production pattern of “4”, the player will feel a tension that it is likely to end up in the high probability state because it will normally correspond to a big hit, as it is. Can be given. In addition, after this, the reach effect mentioned above is performed and the effect that it becomes a big hit is performed. However, if the number of operation inputs of the effect switching button 45 has not reached the specified number, and the lottery element corresponding to the second individual display M2b is determined to correspond to the probability variation big hit, The effect of changing the “display M2b” to the “first individual display M2a” is not executed, but after the three “4” effect symbols are arranged in a winning manner, a re-lottery effect or a promising change promotion effect for the round in the big role, etc. By being executed, the player is informed that the probability variation jackpot is true.

[Example of suggestion production]
FIG. 34 to FIG. 36 are continuous diagrams showing an example of a suggestion effect performed in the chance mode. This chance mode is a mode that is shifted to after the big game when it corresponds to “10 round normal big hit” or “16 round normal big hit”, and corresponds to “low probability state” and “time reduction state”. In this embodiment, the “suggesting effect” is an effect that suggests that there is a lottery element corresponding to a big hit in the working memory by dropping the movable body 40g to the maximum. Hereinafter, the flow of production will be described in order.

In FIG. 34 (A): For example, the variation display of the effect symbol is performed in a state where the game in the chance mode has progressed to some extent. The background image in the chance mode is a background image that uses images such as “sand beach”, “sea”, and “mountain” as motifs.
At this time, all four markers M1 are lit and displayed, indicating that the number of working memories of the first special symbol is four, and two markers M2 are lit and displayed to indicate the second special symbol. It shows that the number of working memories of the symbol is two. Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is variably displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.

In FIG. 34 (B): Since the current variation is completed, all effect symbols are stopped and displayed ("7"-"2"-"6"). The fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a non-winning manner (for example, white display color).
At this time, when the number of working memories of the second special symbol has increased by two (specifically, the winning to the lower start winning opening 28a has occurred twice in succession), two markers M2 are lit and displayed. Production is performed.

In FIG. 34 (C): In accordance with the variation of the next second special symbol, a variation display effect of the effect symbol is performed. Then, since the working memory at the head in the memory order is consumed and the remaining working memory of the second special symbol is three, the three markers M2 remaining on the screen are each in one direction (here In the left direction, there is an effect. Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is variably displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.
At this time, an operation input promotion effect is executed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. The operation input promotion effect is an effect that prompts the player to input an operation using the effect switching button 45. In the example shown in the figure, a strip-like image having the character information “button repeated!” Is displayed on the left side portion of the liquid crystal screen, and the character information “drop the object!” On the right side portion of the liquid crystal screen. A band-like image is displayed. With this operation input promotion effect, the player can be instructed to repeatedly press the effect switching button 45 (so-called button hitting). Here, it is assumed that the player repeatedly presses the effect switching button 45 triggered by this operation input promotion effect. This operation input promotion effect is executed when the effect execution condition of the suggestion effect is satisfied (details of the execution condition will be described later).

In FIG. 35 (D): Since the current variation is completed, all effect symbols are stopped and displayed ("2"-"5"-"9"). The fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a non-winning manner (for example, white display color).
At this time, it is assumed that the number of operation inputs of the effect switching button 45 has reached the first specified number (for example, 5 times). Then, with this as an opportunity, an effect in which the lower end portion of the movable body 40g appears a little on the near side of the liquid crystal display 42 is executed.

(E) in FIG. 35: With the next change of the second special symbol, the change display effect of the effect symbol is performed. Then, since the working memory at the head in the memory order is consumed and the remaining working memory of the second special symbol is two, the two markers M2 remaining on the screen are each in one direction (here) In the left direction, there is an effect. Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is variably displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.
At this time, it is assumed that the number of operation inputs of the effect switching button 45 has reached the second specified number (for example, 10 times). Then, with this as an opportunity, an effect is produced in which about 40% of the movable body 40g appears on the front side of the liquid crystal display 42.

In FIG. 36 (F): Since the current variation is completed, all effect symbols are stopped and displayed ("1"-"9"-"3"). The fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a non-winning manner (for example, white display color).
At this time, it is assumed that the number of operation inputs of the effect switching button 45 has reached the third specified number (for example, 15 times). Then, with this as an opportunity, an effect in which most of the movable body 40g appears on the front side of the liquid crystal display 42 is executed.

In FIG. 36 (G): A change display effect of the effect symbol is performed in accordance with the change of the next second special symbol. Then, since the first operation memory in the storage order is consumed and the remaining operation memory of the second special symbol becomes one, one marker M2 remaining on the screen is one direction (here, one). There is an effect that shifts to the left. Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is variably displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42.
At this time, it is assumed that the number of operation inputs of the effect switching button 45 has reached the fourth specified number (for example, 20 times), and it is determined that the current variation of the second special symbol corresponds to the jackpot. In the illustrated example, an example corresponding to a probable big hit is described, but a similar effect can also be executed when a normal big hit is hit.
Then, an effect that the movable body 40g completely falls to the central portion of the liquid crystal display 42 is executed when the number of operation inputs of the effect switching button 45 has reached the fourth specified number of times (implicit effect executing means). At this time, an image showing a state where lightning or explosion has occurred is also displayed as a background image. If the number of operation inputs of the effect switching button 45 reaches the fourth specified number before the current change, an effect of completely dropping the movable body 40g at that time may be executed.

  In FIG. 36 (H): All effect symbols are stopped and displayed substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the second special symbol ("7"-"7"-"7"). Further, the fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a winning manner (for example, red display color). If the current variation of the second special symbol corresponds to a big hit, and the number of operation inputs of the effect switching button 45 does not reach the fourth specified number of times, the effect that the movable body 40g falls completely is not executed. However, the effect design is stopped and displayed in a winning manner.

  36 (I): On the other hand, even if the number of operation inputs of the effect switching button 45 has reached the fourth specified number of times or not, the variation of the second special symbol this time is a big hit. When it is determined that it does not correspond, the effect that the movable body 40g returns to the original position (storage position) is executed.

  In FIG. 36 (J): All effect symbols are stopped and displayed substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the second special symbol ("2"-"4"-"6"). The fourth symbol Z2 is stopped and displayed in a non-winning manner (for example, white display color).

  In this manner, the player is prompted to input an operation using the effect switching button 45 until the lottery element corresponding to the jackpot is consumed, and the operation switching button 45 accepts an operation input more than a specified number of times (for example, 20 times or more). If it is, a bonus fall effect (suggestion effect) is suggested that suggests that it is a big hit. For this reason, the player can be motivated to participate in the game using the effect switching button 45, and can be provided with surprise and interest in the game.

  Next, an example of a control method for specifically realizing the above effects will be described. The above-mentioned variable display effect, reach effect, advance notice effect before reach occurrence, memory number display effect, pre-reading notice effect, etc., display mode change effect linked to this, suggestion effect, operation input promotion effect, etc. Is also controlled through the following control process.

[Production control processing]
FIG. 37 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example 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 command reception process (step S400), working memory effect management process (step S401), effect symbol management process (step S402), display output process (step S404), lamp driving process (step S406), and acoustic driving. This includes a subroutine group of 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 sound control command, demonstration effect command, lottery result command, variation pattern command, variation start command, stop symbol command, symbol stop command, state designation command, round number command, error notification command, jackpot end effect command, number cut There are a counter value command, a change pattern destination determination command, a stop display time end command, and the like.

  Step S401: In the operation memory effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the execution of the memory number display effect described above and the pre-reading notice effect using the markers M1 and M2 (memory number display effect execution means, display mode change effect execution). means). 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.

  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.

  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, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the driving IC of the movable body 40g. The movable body 40g operates using the movable body solenoid 57 as a drive source, and performs an effect in synchronism with the display of the image by the liquid crystal display 42 as described above or independently.

  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 action memory effect management process executed in the effect control process will be described.

[Working memory production management process]
FIG. 38 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 production command when the number of working memories increases is saved (step S700: Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes step S702. When it is not possible to confirm that the production command when the number of working memories increases is saved (step S700: No), the production 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 (step S704: Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes step S706. If it is not possible to confirm that the effect command when the number of working memories is reduced is stored (step S704: 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.

Step S708: The effect control CPU 126 executes a first determination effect selection process. The specific processing content will be further described later using another flowchart.
When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 37).

[Destination effect selection process]
FIG. 39 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the above-described destination determination effect selection process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S800: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the internal state is a high probability state. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130, confirms the state designation command, and confirms whether or not the internal state is a high probability state.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the internal state is a high probability state (step S800: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S802. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the internal state is not the high probability state (step S800: No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S804.

  Step S802: The effect control CPU 126 executes display mode change effect selection processing. The specific processing content will be further described later using another flowchart.

  Step S804: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the internal state is a time reduction state. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130, confirms the state designation command, and confirms whether or not the internal state is a time reduction state.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the internal state is the time shortening state (step S804: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S806. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the internal state is not the time reduction state (step S804: No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the operation memory effect management process (FIG. 38).

  Step S806: The effect control CPU 126 executes suggestion effect selection processing. The specific processing content will be further described later using another flowchart.

  In any case, when the process of step S802 or step S806 is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the operation memory effect management process (FIG. 38).

[Display mode change effect selection processing]
FIG. 40 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the display mode change effect selection process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S811: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not there is a lottery element corresponding to winning in the operation memory. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 can be realized by accessing the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirming the variation pattern destination determination command.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that there is a lottery element corresponding to the winning in the working memory (step S811: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S812. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that there is no lottery element corresponding to the winning in the operation memory (step S811: No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the first determination effect selection process (FIG. 39).

  Step S812: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not an effect execution condition for the display mode change effect is satisfied. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a lottery with a random number for production or the like (for example, a lottery with a 1/3 winning probability) is won.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the effect execution condition is satisfied (step S812: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S813. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the effect execution condition is not satisfied (step S812: No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the first determination effect selection process (FIG. 39).

Step S813: The effect control CPU 126 executes a second individual display selection process. Specifically, a process of selecting an effect pattern (such as (B) in FIG. 31) for displaying “second individual display M2b” is executed. If the effect pattern based on the normal individual display (the design of the heart) has already been selected, a process of replacing the effect pattern based on the “normal individual display” with the effect pattern based on the “second individual display M2b” is executed.
Step S814: The effect control CPU 126 executes an operation input promotion effect selection process (operation input promotion effect execution means). Specifically, a process of selecting an effect pattern (such as (C) in FIG. 31) that prompts the user to press the effect switch button 45 is executed.

  Step S815: The effect control CPU 126 executes an operation input number counting process. Specifically, when the effect switching button 45 is pressed once, the contact signal is input to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame lighting board 136, so that whenever the contact signal is input to the effect control device 124. In addition, by counting up a predetermined counter variable in the counter area of the RAM 130, the number of times that the effect switching button 45 is pressed can be counted.

  Step S816: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the number of operation inputs is equal to or greater than a specified number (for example, 20 or more). Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the count variable counted up in the counter area of the RAM 130 is equal to or greater than the specified number.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the number of operation inputs is equal to or greater than the specified number (step S816: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S817. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the number of operation inputs is less than the prescribed number (step S816: No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the first determination effect selection process (FIG. 39).

  Step S817: The effect control CPU 126 selects one of the winning symbols (winning type) for the winning lottery element existing in the working memory (“10 round probability variation symbol” or “16 round probability variation symbol”). ). Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 can be realized by accessing the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirming the variation pattern destination determination command and the special figure destination determination effect command.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the winning symbol (winning type) corresponds to any probability variation symbol (step S817: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S818. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the winning symbol (winning type) does not correspond to any probability variation symbol (step S817: No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the previous determination effect selecting process (FIG. 39). To do.

  Step S818: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not an effect execution condition for the display mode change effect is satisfied. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a lottery with a random number for production (for example, a lottery with a winning probability of 3/4) is won.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the effect execution condition is satisfied (step S818: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S819. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the effect execution condition is not satisfied (step S818: No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the first determination effect selection process (FIG. 39).

  Note that in steps S812 and S818, the determination of “whether or not the performance execution condition is satisfied” is executed in the same manner in both steps, but the contents are different in meaning. In other words, the former step S812 is a lottery related to whether or not an effect by the “second individual display M2b” is to be executed, whereas the latter step S818 changes the “second individual display M2b” to the “first individual display”. It is a lottery related to whether or not to change to “display M2a”.

  Step S819: The effect control CPU 126 executes a first individual display selection process (display mode change effect executing means). Specifically, a process of selecting an effect pattern ((H) in FIG. 33) for changing “second individual display M2b” to “first individual display M2a” is executed. Then, when the effect control CPU 126 finishes the process of step S819, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the first determination effect selection process (FIG. 39).

[Suggested production selection process]
FIG. 41 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the suggestion effect selection process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S821: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not an effect execution condition for the suggestion effect is satisfied. Specifically, (1) when there is a lottery element corresponding to winning in the working memory, and when winning by a lottery (such as a 2/3 winning probability) with a random number for production, (2) If there is no lottery element corresponding to the winning in the working memory and the winning lottery with a random number for production etc. (for example, winning probability of 1/70), if any of the lottery matches, the suggested effect It is determined that the performance execution condition is satisfied.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the effect execution condition is satisfied (step S821: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S822. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the effect execution condition is not satisfied (step S821: No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the first determination effect selection process (FIG. 39).

  Step S822: The effect control CPU 126 executes an operation input promotion effect selection process (operation input promotion effect execution means). Specifically, a process of selecting an effect pattern (such as (C) in FIG. 34) that prompts the user to press the effect switch button 45 is executed.

  Step S823: The effect control CPU 126 executes an operation input number counting process. The content of the process is the same as that in step S815 (FIG. 40) described above. As described above, when the effect of gradually dropping the movable body 40g is adopted, the movable body 40g is dropped to the first stage when the first specified number of times (5 times) is reached ((D) in FIG. 35). When the second specified number of times (10 times) is reached, the movable body 40g is dropped to the second stage ((E) in FIG. 35), and when the third specified number of times (15 times) is reached, the movable body 40g is dropped to the third stage. It can also be dropped ((F) in FIG. 35). However, when the fourth specified number of times (20 times) is reached, the movable body 40g does not necessarily fall to the fourth stage (final stage), and the operation mode branches according to the following judgment.

  Step S824: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the number of operation inputs is a specified number or more (for example, 20 or more, a fourth specified number or more). The content of this process is also the same as that in step S816 (FIG. 40) described above.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that the number of operation inputs is equal to or greater than the specified number (for example, 20 times or more) (step S824: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S825. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the number of operation inputs is less than the specified number (step S824: No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the first determination effect selection process (FIG. 39).

  Step S825: The effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not there is a lottery element corresponding to winning in the working memory. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 can be realized by accessing the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirming the variation pattern destination determination command. This determination is made to exclude the case of (2) in step S821.

  As a result, when it is confirmed that there is a lottery element corresponding to the winning in the working memory (step S825: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S826. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that there is no lottery element corresponding to the winning in the operation memory (step S825: No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the first determination effect selection process (FIG. 39).

  Step S826: The effect control CPU 126 executes a suggestion effect pattern selection process (indication effect execution means). Specifically, a process of selecting an effect pattern (G in FIG. 36) that completely drops the movable body 40g to the final stage is executed. Thereby, it can be suggested that there is a lottery element corresponding to the winning in the working memory. Then, when the effect control CPU 126 finishes the process of step S826, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the previous determination effect selection process (FIG. 39).

FIG.42 and FIG.43 is a timing chart which shows the change of the various states which generate | occur | produce through the game by a pachinko machine. FIG. 42 shows a timing chart according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 43 shows a timing chart according to a comparative example.
In each figure, (A) in the figure shows ON or OFF of the time shortening function. In the figure, (B) shows the change or stop change of the first special symbol, and (C) shows the change or stop change of the second special symbol. Further, (D) in the figure shows the change in the valid time or invalidity of the effective time of the effect switching button 45, and (E) in the figure shows ON or OFF of the contact signal input from the effect switching button 45.

In FIG. 42 (A): At time t0, the time shortening function is ON. Therefore, the internal state at time t0 is a time reduction state in the low probability state or the high probability state.
In FIG. 42 (B): In the time shortening state, the variable start winning device 28 is operated at a high frequency. Therefore, in the illustrated example, the first special symbol is in a state of being stopped without fluctuation.

In FIG. 42 (C): When a game ball wins to the variable start winning device 28 (start winning port 28a) in a state where the variable start winning device 28 is open, the second special symbol is triggered by this. The fluctuation is started (time t1).
Since the variation of the second special symbol started from the time t1 is a variation in a state where the time shortening function is ON, it is set to a shortened variation time (for example, about 2.0 seconds). . Time T1 from time t1 to time t2 is the variation time of the second special symbol. Then, when the variation of the second special symbol is completed at time t2, the second special symbol is stopped and displayed over time T2 from time t2 to time t3. Time T2 from time t2 to time t3 is a stop display time of the second special symbol (for example, about 0.5 seconds).

  Similarly, the change display and stop display of the second special symbol are repeated. That is, the second special symbol is variably displayed at time T3 from time t3 to time t4, and the second special symbol is stopped and displayed at time T4 from time t4 to time t5. The second special symbol is variably displayed at time T5 from time t5 to time t6, and the second special symbol is stopped and displayed at time T6 from time t6 to time t7. The second special symbol is variably displayed at time T7 from time t7 to time t8, and the second special symbol is stopped and displayed at time T8 from time t8 to time t9. The second special symbol is variably displayed at time T9 from time t9 to time t10, and the second special symbol is stopped and displayed at time T10 from time t10 to time t11.

42 (D): In this embodiment, both the variation time of the second special symbol (which may be the first special symbol) and the stop display time are input by the effect switching button 45. The effective time is set to be effective (effective time setting means). Here, the “valid time” refers to the time when the operation input by the effect switching button 45 is valid, that is, the time when the effect control CPU 126 receives the contact signal generated by pressing the effect switching button 45 as being effective. .
Therefore, in the illustrated example, the effective time starts from the time when the variation of the second special symbol starts at time t1 (the operation input of the effect switching button 45 becomes valid), and then the operation memory of the second special symbol is not interrupted. As long as the effective time continues.
Whether the current time is the special symbol change time (during change) or the special symbol stop display time (stop display) can be confirmed by checking the command buffer area of the RAM 130. For example, it can be determined that it is the change time of the special symbol and the stop display time of the special symbol from when the change start command is received until the stop display time end command is received.

In FIG. 42 (E): In such a situation, it is assumed that the player presses the effect switching button 45 a plurality of times (continuous hitting of the effect switching button 45). In the example shown in the figure, an example in which the first effect switching button 45 is started to be pressed near the middle between time t3 and time t4, and the 14th effect switching button 45 is pressed before time t11. (Waveforms with (1) to (14) in parentheses in the figure).
In this case, with respect to the effect switching button 45, the effective time is continuously set from the time t1, so that the depression of the effect switching button 45 is all effective. For this reason, when the player actually presses down the effect switching button 45 for 14 times, pressing of the effect switching button 45 for 14 times is all effective, and the pressing operation of the effect switching button 45 is not wasted.

  On the other hand, the gaming machine of the comparative example will be described. As shown in (D-1) in FIG. 43, in the normal gaming machine, only a part of the fluctuation time of the special symbol is the effect switching button. The effective time is 45. For example, when explaining the variation time T5 of the second special symbol, not all the variation time T5 is the effective time of the effect switching button 45, but only a part of the variation time T5 is the effect switching button. The effective time is 45. For this reason, as shown in (E) in FIG. 43, the effect switching button 45 is pressed three times within the variation time T5 of the second special symbol ((4), (5 ), (6)), and only the second and third presses are accepted as valid presses of the effect switch button 45 (in parentheses in the figure (5), (6)). Waveform with

  Further, as shown in (D-2) in FIG. 43, not only a part of the special symbol variation time but also the special symbol variation time is set as the effective time of the effect switching button 45. Assume a case. In this case, since the special symbol stop display time comes after the elapse of the special symbol variation time for each variation of the special symbol, the effective time of the effect switching button 45 is interrupted for each variation. Similarly to the example of the embodiment described above, even if the player actually presses the effect switching button 45 for 14 times, the 14 times of pressing are not all effective, and the effect switching button 45 is pressed. Operation is wasted (the waveforms marked with (3), (7), (11), (14) in parentheses in the figure are the press of the effect switching button 45 during the stop display time). Will be treated as invalid).

  On the other hand, in this embodiment, not only the variation time of the special symbol but also the stop display time of the special symbol is set to an effective time for validating the operation input (pressing) of the effect switching button 45. Operation of the effect switch button 45 over the entire period from the start of the special symbol stop display time to the end of the special symbol stop display time after the special symbol stops changing after the special symbol starts changing An input can be received, and an effective time for receiving an operation input of the effect switching button 45 can be sufficiently secured. For example, assuming that there are two working memories, even if the variation time of the special symbol in the time shortening state is “2.0 seconds”, the stop display time is “0.6 seconds”. Therefore, the total valid time is “2.0 seconds” + “0.6 seconds” + “2.0 seconds” + “0.6 seconds” = “5.2 seconds”, which is sufficient for the player An effective time can be provided.

  This point is particularly effective when the variation time of the special symbol is short (such as when the time is shortened), and the above-described display mode change effect or suggestive effect is spread over a plurality of special symbol variations. When executing, as long as the working memory exists, the effective time is not interrupted, so that a longer effective period can be secured. Therefore, there is a synergistic effect that not only the player can efficiently input the operation of the effect switching button 45 but also the game machine control side can efficiently execute various effects. In addition, since the operation input of the effect switching button 45 is always valid across a plurality of special symbol variations, there is an advantage that it is not necessary to start (set) the valid time many times for each variation. . Furthermore, the fact that the working memory is interrupted means that the effective time of the effect switching button 45 is temporarily interrupted, and thus has an effect of promoting the launch of the game ball.

[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. 13) 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. 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.

  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, at the time of a small hit, the result display effect is executed in a manner similar to or approximated to the loss.

  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. 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 16 round big hits, the effect control CPU 126 selects a 16-round big role 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). . 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.

[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. 37) and lamp driving process (step S406 in FIG. 37). 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 the variation pattern command or the 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”.

  The above procedure corresponds to the case of “small hit”, but when it corresponds to 10 round big hit or 16 round big hit, the production 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. Note that, in the big hit effect pattern selection process, the process may be further branched for each big hit stop symbol.

  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 by 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. Further, as described in the flow of the normal fluctuation effect control, the effect control CPU 126 executes various line effect lotteries (effect pattern selection means) in the notice selection process.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (tail 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. In addition, various stay mode effects are executed based on the background (stay) mode pattern selected here (effect execution means).

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, not only the variation time of the special symbol but also the stop display time of the special symbol is set to an effective time in which the operation input of the effect switching button 45 is valid. The effective time of the effect switching button 45 can be sufficiently secured, and the effect using the effect switching button 45 can be executed effectively.

  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 surface configuration, specific numerical values and the like of the pachinko machine 1 are preferable examples including those shown in the drawings, and it goes without saying that these can be appropriately modified.

  In the embodiment described above, the display mode change effect (effect that changes the memory marker) is executed in the fireworks mode that is a high-probability state and the time-shortened state, and the suggestion effect (effect that causes the movable body 40g to fall) is low. Although explained in the example of execution in the chance mode that is in the probability state and the time reduction state, these effects may be executed in other modes, for example, in the normal mode in the low probability state and the non-time reduction state You may make it do.

The display mode change effect has been explained with an example of the effect of teaching the expectation of winning in the probable variation pattern by changing from “skull pattern” to “diamond pattern”, but without using “skull pattern” Alternatively, the “heart pattern” may be changed directly to the “diamond pattern” in response to a plurality of operation inputs of the effect switching button 45.
Also, the display mode change effect may be an effect that teaches the expected degree of big hit of the change. In this case, for example, the storage marker colored in blue is displayed in the first stage, and the color of the storage marker is gradually changed according to the number of operation inputs of the effect switching button 45, and then the color changes from green to red. If it develops, the degree of expectation of the big hit is great, and if it changes to a pattern, it may be an effect such as confirmation of the big hit.

Although the suggestion effect has been described with an example of an effect that suggests a big hit using the movable body 40g, it is not limited to this, and a big hit may be suggested using an effect on a liquid crystal screen. For example, a balloon image may be displayed on the liquid crystal screen, and the balloon image may be gradually inflated according to the number of operation inputs of the effect switching button 45, and finally a big hit or the like may be made when the balloon bursts.
Further, although the suggestion effect has been described in the example of the effect suggesting a big hit, it may be an effect suggesting that not only the big hit but also a specific fluctuation pattern (a fluctuation pattern corresponding to the reach effect) is selected. For example, when the occurrence of the reach state or the occurrence of the super reach state is suggested, even if the movable body 40g falls, it will not necessarily be a big hit, and a reach effect with a high expectation degree of the big hit will be executed. . The suggestion effect may be an effect that changes the display mode of the operation memory marker.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Game board 8a Game area 20 Start gate 26 Upper start prize port 28 Variable start prize device 28a Lower 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 45 Effect switching button 70 Main control device 72 Main control CPU
74 ROM
76 RAM
124 Production control device 126 Production control CPU

Claims (5)

A lottery execution means for executing an internal lottery related to the profit of the player when a lottery opportunity occurs during the game;
When the internal lottery is executed, the symbol display means for displaying the symbol in a manner representing the result of the internal lottery for a predetermined stop display time after the symbol is variably displayed over the predetermined fluctuation time as a trigger When,
The symbol effect executing means for executing the stop display effect corresponding to the stop display of the symbol by the symbol display means after executing the change display effect corresponding to the symbol change display by the symbol display means within at least the change time. When,
An operation input receiving means for receiving an operation input related to the variable display effect by the symbol effect executing means;
A gaming machine comprising: a valid time setting means for setting both the time of the symbol change time and the stop display time by the symbol display means to a valid time for validating the operation input by the operation input receiving means. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
When the lottery opportunity occurs during a game, lottery element acquisition means for acquiring a lottery element for use in the internal lottery by the lottery execution means;
When the lottery trigger occurs before the start condition that allows the symbol display to be started by the symbol display means is satisfied, the lottery elements acquired by the lottery element acquisition means are acquired up to a predetermined upper limit number. Lottery element storage means for sequentially storing;
A memory number display effect executing means for executing a memory number display effect corresponding to an increase or decrease in the memory number of the lottery elements using an individual display that individually represents the memory of the lottery elements stored by the lottery element storage means;
When the lottery element is stored by the lottery element storage unit, a destination determination that determines in advance the result of at least the internal lottery using the lottery element before the lottery element is consumed by the lottery execution unit Means,
Until the specific determination result stored in the lottery element storage means satisfies a specific condition by the prior determination means, until the specific lottery element is consumed by the lottery execution means A display mode for executing a display mode change effect for changing the display mode of the individual display corresponding to the lottery element satisfying a specific condition when an operation input of a prescribed number of times is received by the operation input receiving unit during A gaming machine, further comprising change effect execution means. The gaming machine according to claim 2,
A winning type defining means for preliminarily prescribing a plurality of winning types including at least a first winning type and a second winning type with respect to the winning result obtained by the internal lottery by the lottery executing means;
A winning type determining means for determining which of a plurality of winning types defined by the winning type defining means corresponds to a winning result obtained in the internal lottery by the lottery executing means;
When the symbol is stopped and displayed in a predetermined winning manner by the symbol display means, special game execution means for executing a special game to which special conditions different from normal are applied;
When the result of the internal lottery corresponds to winning and the winning type determining means determines that it corresponds to the first winning type, after the special game is completed by the special game executing means, the lottery executing means High probability state transition means for transitioning from a low probability state in which a winning is obtained with at least a normal probability to the high probability state in which a winning is obtained with a high probability compared to the low probability state in the internal lottery performed,
When the result of the internal lottery corresponds to winning, and the winning type determining means determines that it corresponds to the first winning type or the second winning type, after the special game is finished by the special game executing means The time shortening state transition means for shifting from the non-time shortening state where the lottery trigger occurs at least at a normal frequency to the time shortening state where the lottery trigger can be generated at a higher frequency than the non-time shortening state. And further comprising
The memorized number display effect executing means is
As the individual display, at least a normal individual display, a first individual display that suggests that it is more likely to correspond to the first winning type than the normal individual display, and the second winning type than the normal individual display. And a second individual display that suggests that there is a high probability that the lottery element is likely to fall under the above-described first determination result by the destination determination means for the specific lottery element stored by the lottery element storage means. When the result that the result corresponds to either the winning type or the second winning type is obtained and the predetermined effect execution condition is satisfied, the stored number display effect is executed using the second individual display,
The display mode change effect executing means is
The operation input receiving means receives a predetermined number of operation inputs before the specific lottery element is consumed by the lottery executing means, and the prior determination result by the destination determination means is the first determination result. When the result that it corresponds to one winning type is obtained and the predetermined performance execution condition is satisfied, the display mode of the second individual display is changed to the display mode of the first individual display, while the specific lottery element is When the operation input receiving means receives a predetermined number of operation inputs before being consumed by the lottery execution means, and the previous determination result by the destination determination means corresponds to the second winning type When the result is obtained and the predetermined performance execution condition is satisfied, the display mode of the second individual display is maintained. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
When the lottery opportunity occurs during a game, lottery element acquisition means for acquiring a lottery element for use in the internal lottery by the lottery execution means;
When the lottery trigger occurs before the start condition that allows the symbol display to be started by the symbol display means is satisfied, the lottery elements acquired by the lottery element acquisition means are acquired up to a predetermined upper limit number. Lottery element storage means for sequentially storing;
When the lottery element is stored by the lottery element storage unit, a destination determination that determines in advance the result of at least the internal lottery using the lottery element before the lottery element is consumed by the lottery execution unit Means,
Until the specific determination result stored in the lottery element storage means satisfies a specific condition by the prior determination means, until the specific lottery element is consumed by the lottery execution means If the operation input reception means receives a predetermined number of times or more during this period, the suggestion effect execution is executed to suggest the suggestion effect that the previous determination result by the destination determination means satisfies a specific condition. And a gaming machine. In the gaming machine according to any one of claims 2 to 4,
Operation input promotion that prompts the player to perform an operation input by the operation input accepting unit when a predetermined determination result by the destination determination unit satisfies a specific condition for the specific lottery element stored by the lottery element storage unit A gaming machine, further comprising operation input promotion effect execution means for executing an effect.

Images