JP2013022248A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine for accurately grasping a restored control state when a game state is restored in a next power-on by control data backed up in power shutdown.SOLUTION: When the control state is restored in power-on (S41 to S43) based on the control data backed up in power shutdown and a right generation flag has been set, right generation notification is performed (S44, S45).

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine and a coin gaming machine, and in particular, based on the fact that a gaming medium enters a specific area provided in a gaming area into which a gaming medium is driven after a predetermined condition is established. The present invention relates to a gaming machine that controls a gaming state to a specific gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state.

  As a game machine generally known as this type of game machine, for example, a game medium such as a game ball is thrown after a predetermined condition such as a state where a right is generated, such as a pachinko game machine, is established. Based on the fact that a game medium has entered a specific area provided in the game area, there is one that controls the game state to a specific game state (big hit game state) that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state.

  As such a gaming machine, when a predetermined condition is established, a right generation state is established, and when a game ball passes a predetermined area, the game is controlled to a big hit gaming state. In some cases, an appropriate game progression advice is notified to a player, such as notifying a region where a game ball should be shot (Patent Document 1). Also, in the conventional gaming machine, when the power supply to the gaming machine is cut off due to a power failure or the like, game control control data used for the progress of the game is backed up and stored in the main control board at the main control board. At the time of subsequent activation, control is performed so that the main control board recovers the gaming state so as to be in the control state when the power is turned off, using the control data stored in the backup.

Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2004-195017 (paragraph numbers 0054 to 0056, FIG. 4)

  However, as shown in Patent Document 1, in the conventional gaming machine that notifies the player of advice on the progress of the game, the backup memory is stored in the main control board when the power is turned on to start the gaming machine after the power is turned off. The game state is restored using the control data that has been played, but there are many sub-control boards that perform effects such as advice notification of game progress, etc. In addition, since the game progress advice notification state is not restored, it is unclear whether or not the state of the gaming machine is a right generation state if it is not in the big hit gaming state, and the restored control state is There has been a problem that operational inconvenience occurs, such as the administrator being unable to accurately grasp.

  The present invention has been conceived in view of such circumstances, and its purpose is to restore the game state when the game state is restored at the next power-on using the control data stored in the backup when the power is turned off. It is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming machine capable of accurately grasping the control state.

Specific examples of means for solving the problems and their effects

(1) After a predetermined condition (right generation state based on display of jackpot display result in variable display) is established, a specific area (specific area) provided in a game area (game area 7) into which a game medium (game ball) is to be shot A gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine 1) that controls the gaming state to a specific gaming state (opening control state of the big prize opening) that is more advantageous to the player than the normal gaming state based on the entry of the gaming medium into the gate 33) Because
Game control means (game control microcomputer 560) for controlling the progress of the game;
Backup storage means (backup RAM area of the RAM 55) for backup storage of control data for specifying the control state by the game control means when the gaming machine is powered off;
Control state restoration means (game control microcomputer 560, S6 to S8 in FIG. 7) for restoring the control state of the game control means based on the control data stored in the backup storage means when the gaming machine is turned on. , S41 to S47),
When the control state of the game control unit is recovered by the control state recovery unit, if the predetermined condition is satisfied, the fact that the predetermined condition is satisfied is notified (right generation) Notification) Condition establishment notification means (game control microcomputer 560, S44, S45 in FIG. 7) is provided.

  According to such a configuration, after a predetermined condition is established, in a gaming machine that is controlled to a specific gaming state based on the entry of a gaming medium into a specific area, based on the control data stored in a backup when the power is turned off. When the control state of the game control means is restored when the power is turned on, if the predetermined condition is satisfied, the fact that the predetermined condition is satisfied is notified. Thereby, when the gaming state is restored when the power is turned on, the restored control state can be accurately grasped with respect to the control state relating to the transition to the specific gaming state.

(2) In the gaming machine of (1), a pre-determining means (game controlling microcomputer 560, S60 in FIG. 15) for deciding whether or not to satisfy the predetermined condition (whether or not to make a jackpot display result) S71),
Probability state control means for controlling the probability determined by the predetermining means that the predetermined condition is satisfied after completion of the specific gaming state to a higher probability state than a low probability state in the normal gaming state. (Game control microcomputer 560, S158 in FIG. 19),
When it is controlled to the high probability state by the probability state control means (for example, a high-accuracy base state after a probable big hit) or not (a normal low-base state or a low-probably low base state after a normal big hit) And common production means (S800 in FIG. 38) for executing a common production (latent production in FIG. 39),
When the control state of the game control means is restored by the control state restoration means, the high probability state is notified when the control state is restored (high probability notification) High probability notification means (game) And a control microcomputer 560 and S46 and S47) of FIG.

  According to such a configuration, when the control state of the game control means is restored when the power is turned on based on the control data stored in backup when the power is turned off, when the probability state is high, the state is a high probability state. Therefore, when the gaming state is restored when the power is turned on, the restored control state can be more accurately grasped.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a figure explaining the feature of control of big hit type in a table form. It is a block diagram which shows an example of the circuit structure in a main board | substrate. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a relay board | substrate, an effect control board | substrate, a lamp driver board | substrate, and an audio | voice output board | substrate. It is a block diagram which shows the example of 1 structure around CPU56 for a power supply monitoring and a power supply backup. It is a block diagram which shows the example of 1 structure of the power supply board of a game machine. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which the microcomputer for game control in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows a timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows the big hit determination table and the big hit classification determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of the presentation control command which the microcomputer for game control transmits. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of the pending | holding storage buffer in the microcomputer for game control. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows the big winning opening opening pre-processing. It is a flowchart which shows a big winning opening open process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. FIG. 10 is a timing chart showing a control state when a special winning opening is opened after a game ball passes a specific gate in a right generation state. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a prize ball process. It is a figure which shows a prize ball number table. It is a flowchart which shows a prize ball command output counter addition process. It is a flowchart which shows a prize ball command output counter addition process. It is a flowchart which shows a prize ball control process. It is a flowchart which shows the prize ball transmission process 2 performed when the value of a prize ball process code is 2. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the timer interruption process which the microcomputer for payout control performs. It is a flowchart which shows an information output process. It is a flowchart which shows a winning signal output process. It is a flowchart which shows a winning timer set process. It is a flowchart which shows a test terminal process. It is a timing chart which shows the relationship between a gaming state and a left-handed signal and a right-handed signal. It is explanatory drawing which shows a normal symbol display result determination table. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a normal symbol process process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the random number which the microcomputer for production control uses. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the stop symbol of the effect design (decoration design) in an effect display apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows production control main processing. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a display screen figure of the effect display apparatus which shows an example of the latent effect performed in common after completion | finish of the big hit game state of probability variation big hit, and after completion | finish of the big hit big hit game state. It is an enlarged view of the periphery of the effect display apparatus which shows an example of the power saving control state by 2nd Embodiment. It is a display screen figure of the production | presentation display apparatus which shows an example of driving field alerting | reporting control by 3rd Embodiment. It is a display screen figure which shows an example of the display image of an effect display apparatus when the latent effect by 4th Embodiment is performed.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that a pachinko gaming machine is shown as an example of a gaming machine, but the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine, and may be another gaming machine such as a coin gaming machine. Any game machine that controls the game state to a specific game state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal game state based on the entry of the game medium into the specific region provided in the game area to be inserted. It may be a machine.

[First Embodiment]
First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1 that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as seen from the front. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the features of the jackpot type control in a table format.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be openable and closable. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) installed to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate (not shown) to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts (games to be described later) attached to them. A structure including the board 6).

  On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Below the hitting ball supply tray 3, there are an extra ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls as game media that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3, and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for emitting hitting balls (game balls). Is provided. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. In addition, a game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6 in which a game ball that has been thrown can flow down. A large number of nails for guiding a game ball are implanted in the game area 7.

  An effect display device 9 composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) is provided near the center of the game area 7. The effect display device 9 corresponds to a variable display device that performs variable display (also referred to as variable display, update display, or cyclic display) of effect symbols (decorative symbols) as a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified. In the effect display device 9, an effect symbol display area for displaying an effect symbol on the display screen is provided. In the effect symbol display area, for example, three (plural) of “left”, “middle”, and “right” are provided. There is a symbol display area as a display area for variably displaying the effect symbols. Each of these three effect symbols is an effect symbol as a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified.

  In the effect display device 9, a change display of the effect symbol (decorative symbol) synchronized with the change display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol described later is performed. The variation display of the effect symbol is executed in various variations such as scroll display and on-site switching display.

  The effect display device 9 is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. When the first special symbol display 8a is executing the variable display of the first special symbol, the effect control microcomputer causes the effect display device 9 to execute the effect display along with the variable display. When the variation display of the second special symbol is being executed on the symbol display 8b, the effect display is executed by the effect display device along with the variation display, so that it is possible to easily grasp the progress of the game.

  On the left side of the upper portion of the effect display device 9 in the game board 6, there is a first special symbol display (first variation display means) 8a that variably displays a first special symbol as a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified. Is provided. In this embodiment, the first special symbol display device 8a is realized by a simple and small display device (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. In other words, the first special symbol display 8a is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. On the right side of the upper portion of the effect display device 9 in the game board 6, there is a second special symbol display (second variation display means) 8b for variably displaying the second special symbols as a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified. Is provided. The second special symbol display 8b is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7-segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. In other words, the second special symbol display 8b is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9.

  In this embodiment, the type of the first special symbol and the type of the second special symbol are the same (for example, both 0 to 9), but the types may be different. Further, the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b may be configured to variably display, for example, a number (or a two-digit symbol) of 00 to 99, for example.

  Hereinafter, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as a special symbol, and the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator 8b may be collectively referred to as a special symbol indicator. The first special symbol is subjected to variable display on the condition that the second special symbol display unit 8b does not execute the variable display of the second special symbol. The second special symbol is displayed on the condition that the first special symbol display unit 8a does not execute the variable display of the first special symbol. That is, either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is variably displayed without being variably displayed at the same time.

  For the variation display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the first start condition or the second start condition, which is the execution condition of the variation display, is satisfied (for example, the game ball has the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening) 14), the display condition of the variable display (for example, when the number of reserved memories is not 0, and the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed) The game is started based on the fact that the big hit game is not executed), and when the variable display time (variable time) elapses, the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Note that winning means that a game ball has passed through a predetermined area such as a winning opening (a game ball has entered). Deriving and displaying the display result is to finally stop and display a symbol (an example of identification information).

  In the following description, the fact that the game ball has won the first start prize opening 13 may be referred to as a first start prize, and the fact that the game ball has won the second start prize opening 14 will be referred to as a second start prize. There is a case. The data related to the variable display in which the start condition is satisfied but the start condition is not satisfied is held and stored as reserved storage data that is a right to perform variable display of the special symbol until the start condition is satisfied. Specifically, the on-hold storage data is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 of the game control microcomputer 560 described later. On-hold storage data for the first start prize is stored in the first on-hold storage buffer as first on-hold storage data with a predetermined number (for example, 4) as an upper limit, and on-premise storage data for the second start prize is on a predetermined number (for example, 4). Is stored in the second reserved storage buffer as second reserved storage data.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 has a ball striking device for driving a driving motor in response to the player operating the ball striking operation handle 5, and using the rotational force of the driving motor to launch the game ball to the game area 7 (see FIG. Not shown). A game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 7 through a ball striking rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then descends the game area 7. When the game ball enters the first start winning port 13 and is detected by the first start port switch 13a, if the variation display of the first special symbol can be started (for example, the variation display of the special symbol ends, 1), the first special symbol display unit 8a starts the variable display (variation) of the first special symbol, and the effect display device 9 starts the variable display of the effect symbol (decorative symbol). Is done. That is, the change display of the first special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the first start winning opening 13. If the variable display of the first special symbol cannot be started, the first reserved memory number is increased by 1 on condition that the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  When the game ball enters the second start winning port 14 and is detected by the second start port switch 14a, if the variation display of the second special symbol can be started (for example, the variation display of the special symbol ends, 2), the second special symbol display unit 8b starts the variation display (variation) of the second special symbol, and the effect display device 9 starts the variation display of the effect symbol (decoration symbol). Is done. That is, the change display of the second special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the second start winning opening 14. If the variable display of the second special symbol cannot be started, the second reserved memory number is increased by 1 on condition that the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  The effect display device 9 is provided at the center of the game area 7, and during the variable display time of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b. During the variation display time, the variation display of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) as the symbol for decoration (effect) is performed. The change display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the change display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, the variation display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b and the variation display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Synchronous means that the start point and end point of variable display are substantially the same (may be exactly the same) and the period of variable display is substantially the same (may be exactly the same). Further, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a and when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display device 9 reminds the jackpot Is stopped and displayed as a jackpot display result. The first special symbol display device 8a, the second special symbol display device 8b, and the effect display device 9 described above are variable display devices that perform variable display of identification information and derive and display a display result, and are used as a variable display unit. It is done.

  In the effect display device 9, when starting the variable display, for example, all of the left, middle, and right effect symbols start the variable display. Then, the left, middle, and right effect symbols that are variably displayed basically stop in a predetermined order (for example, a predetermined order such as the order of the left effect symbol, the right effect symbol, and the middle effect symbol). When a predetermined variation time has elapsed from the start of variation display, all the left, middle and right effect symbols are stopped and the display result is confirmed. The order in which the left, middle, and right effect symbols stop may be other than the order of the left, right, and center symbols. Further, the left, middle, and right effect symbols may be stopped simultaneously.

  The game area 7 includes a plurality of areas in which the area into which a game ball is to be shot can be changed by the player's selection. In the case of the present embodiment, the game area 7 is called a left area 7a on the left side of the center of the game area in the left-right direction and a right area 7b. In addition, the game area 7 is divided into left and right, for example, by dividing a position that is unevenly distributed to the left or right from the center of the game area 7 in addition to dividing the game area 7 to the left and right with the center of the game area 7 as a boundary. May be. For example, a decorative member (so-called center decorative member) provided with a device such as the effect display device 9 may be provided unevenly from the center of the game area 7 to the left or right. In such a case, the game area The area may be divided into left and right with the vertex of the decorative member unevenly distributed from the center of 7 to the left or right. In other words, the game area 7 may be divided into any areas as long as the game area 7 is divided into a plurality of game areas around a certain position. Also, in this way, in the case of including a plurality of areas of the left area 7a and the right area 7b, it is "left-handed" to hit the game ball aiming at the left area 7a so that the game ball flows to the left area 7a. It is called “right-handed” to hit the game ball aiming at the right region 7b so that the game ball flows to the right region 7b.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1, by changing the firing strength of the hitting ball launcher according to the amount of operation of the hitting ball operating handle 5, the area for hitting the game ball is changed by the player's selection, such as hitting right or left can do.

  Below the effect display device 9 is provided a first start winning opening 13 through which a game ball can win (enter). The first start winning opening 13 is provided at the center in the left-right direction of the game area 7. The game ball won in the first start winning opening 13 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the first start opening switch 13a. In the case of the present embodiment, the first start winning opening 13 is arranged such that the flow of the game ball is made by arrangement of structures and nails so that it is easier to win when “left-handed” than when “right-handed”. A road is formed.

  In addition, a variable winning award having a second start winning port 14 (second start port) in which a game ball can win (enter) in the right region 7b on the right side portion of the first start winning port (first start port) 13. A ball device (electric tulip) 15 is provided. The variable winning ball apparatus 15 includes a pair of left and right movable pieces 18, and according to the state of the movable piece 18, a first state in which a game ball can be won (open state) and a second state in which a game ball does not win (open state). ) And changeable. A stopper member 17 is provided above the movable piece 18 to prevent a game ball from being won from above. The stopper member 17 is configured so that the game ball does not win the second start winning opening 14 in the closed state. The second start winning opening 14 provided in the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is a game ball by arrangement of structures and nails so that it becomes easier to win when “right-handed” than when “left-handed”. The flow path is formed.

  The game ball that has won the second start winning opening 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the second start opening switch 14a. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16.

  When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the game ball can be awarded to the second starting winning port 14 (it is easier to start winning), which is advantageous for the player. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state, it is easier for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 than the first starting winning opening 13. In addition, in a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, the game ball does not win the second start winning opening 14. Note that the variable winning ball device 15 may be configured so that it is difficult to win in a closed state, but it is possible to win (that is, it is difficult for a game ball to win) ( For example, a configuration example in which the stopper member 17 is not provided). Thus, the state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state may be a state in which the game ball is difficult to win or does not win the second start winning port 14. That is, the variable winning ball device 15 is in a first state (open state) in which a game ball can win a prize and a second state (open state) in which the game ball is harder to win or not win than the first state. Anything that can be changed is acceptable.

  Hereinafter, the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14 may be collectively referred to as a start winning opening or a starting opening.

  The game area 7 is also provided with winning ports (ordinary winning ports) 29 and 30 for paying out a predetermined number of award balls based on winning of game balls. The game balls that have won the winning ports 29 and 30 are detected by the winning port switches 29a and 30a.

  A normal symbol display 10 is provided below the effect display device 9. The normal symbol display 10 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information called “normal symbols” (for example, “◯” and “x”).

  In the right area 7b on the right side of the effect display device 9, a general gate 32 through which game balls can enter and pass is provided, and on the right side, a specific gate through which game balls can enter and pass is provided. 33 is provided. The general gate 32 is provided with a general gate switch 32a for detecting an incoming game ball. The specific gate 33 is provided with a specific gate switch 33a for detecting an incoming game ball.

  In the case of the present embodiment, the normal gate 32 and the specific gate 33 are provided in the right region 7b, and a game ball can enter when “right-handed”, but when “left-handed” is made, A flow path of the game ball is formed by an arrangement of structures and nails so that the game ball cannot enter. It should be noted that the normal gate 32 and the specific gate 33 are arranged so that the game balls can flow more easily when they are “right-handed” than when they are “left-handed”. A path may be formed.

  When the game ball passes through the general-purpose gate 32 and is detected by the general-purpose gate switch 32a, the display variation of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, the left and right lamps (the symbols can be visually recognized at the time of lighting) are alternately turned on to perform the variable display. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol “◯”), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In other words, the state of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is a state that is advantageous from a disadvantageous state for the player when the normal symbol is a stop symbol (a state in which a game ball can be awarded at the second start winning port 14). To change.

  In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, there is provided a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having four indicators (for example, LEDs) for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the normal symbol gate 32. Each time there is a game ball passing through the general-purpose gate 32, that is, every time a game ball is detected by the general-purpose gate switch 32a, the normal symbol holding storage display 41 increases the number of indicators that are turned on by one. Then, each time the variable symbol display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of indicators that are lit is reduced by one. There are four upper limit values for the number of reserved general symbols, and the normal symbol storage memory indicator 41 lights up the indicator with these four as upper limit values.

  Below the first special symbol display 8a, the number of valid winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13, that is, the first reserved memory number (the reserved memory is also referred to as the start memory or the start prize memory) is displayed 4. A first special symbol storage memory display 18a made up of two indicators (for example, LEDs) is provided. The first special symbol storage memory indicator 18a increases the number of indicators that are turned on by one every time there is an effective start winning. Then, every time the variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  Below the second special symbol display 8b is a second special symbol hold comprising four indicators (for example, LEDs) for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the second start winning opening 14, that is, the second reserved memory number. A storage indicator 18b is provided. The second special symbol storage memory display 18b increases the number of indicators that are turned on by one every time there is an effective start winning. Then, every time the variable display on the second special symbol display 8b is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  In addition, the display screen of the effect display device 9 is provided with a total pending storage display unit 18c as an area for displaying the total number (total pending memory count) that is the sum of the first reserved memory count and the second reserved memory count. It has been. In this way, by providing the summation pending storage display unit 18c that displays the total number, it is possible to easily grasp the total number of execution conditions that have not met the variable display start condition. In addition, you may make it provide each display area | region of the 1st reservation memory display part which displays the 1st reservation memory number, and the 2nd reservation memory display part which displays the 2nd reservation memory number.

  The display related to the reserved memory such as the number of reserved memories performed in the first special symbol reserved memory display 18a, the second special symbol reserved memory display 18b, and the total reserved memory display unit 18c is referred to as a reserved memory display. In this way, in the first special symbol hold storage display 18a, the second special symbol hold storage display 18b, and the combined hold storage display unit 18c, the number of the right to perform the variable display is set to each right in a visible manner. Corresponding hold storage display is performed.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 that opens and closes only the second start winning opening 14 is provided. Any of the start winning ports 14 may be provided with a variable winning ball device that performs an opening / closing operation.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1, when the display result of the variable display by the first special symbol display device 8a or the second special symbol display device 8b becomes a big hit display result, and an effect display corresponding to such a display result When the display result of the variable display by the device 9 becomes the jackpot display result, the right generation state in which the right to execute the open control state of the big prize opening advantageous to the player is generated is controlled. When the game ball enters the specific gate 33 and is detected by the specific gate switch 33a in the right generation state, it is controlled to the special winning opening opening control state.

  In the present embodiment, the right generation state is entered based on the display result of the variable display being the jackpot display result, and when the game ball enters the specific gate 33 in the right generation state, the big winning opening of the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is opened. It becomes the open control state to open. The jackpot gaming state that is advantageous to the player corresponds to the release control state after such a right generation state. Therefore, when the display result of the variable display becomes a jackpot display result, and when the right is generated based on the result of the jackpot display, it is possible to control to the jackpot gaming state (open control state). This predetermined condition is established. Whether the display result of the variable display is the jackpot display result is determined in advance before the variable display result is displayed. Therefore, such a pre-determination can be defined as a pre-determination as to whether or not to make a control possible to the right generation state, that is, the open control state (big hit gaming state). Also, the right generation state does not end under conditions other than the game ball entering the specific gate 33.

  Since determining the jackpot display result as the right generation state is eventually involved in controlling to the open control state, determining the display result is a jackpot determination that determines whether or not the jackpot is determined. Sometimes called. In this embodiment, since the open control state in which the big prize opening is opened is an advantageous state for the player, only the open control state is called “big hit”, but the right generation state is also controlled to the open control state. Since it is an advantageous state for a player who is guaranteed to be played, the right generation state and the release control state may be referred to as a “hit”. Therefore, when the term “big hit” is used in the present embodiment, it basically indicates the open control state, but, for example, the probability of determining the jackpot display result in a right generation state such as “hit probability” described later, etc. In addition, when the meaning of “big hit” is easier to understand, the concept including both the right generation state and the release control state may be called “hit”.

  In addition, without providing the specific gate 33, the normal gate 32 may be used also as the specific gate 33. In this case, the general-purpose gate 32 is normally used for variable display control of the symbol display 10 when the right is not generated, and is used instead of the above-described specific gate 33 when the right is generated. That's fine. Further, it is also possible to make it possible to use other winning areas such as a prize opening as the specific gate 33 without providing the specific gate 33. In this case, the target winning area may be used as a normal winning area when the right is not generated, and may be used instead of the above-described specific gate 33 when the right is generated. Further, the specific gate 33 may not be one through which a game ball passes, but may be one in which a game ball is received inside the pachinko gaming machine 1 and a prize ball is paid out like a winning opening.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the specific gate 33 is provided in the area where the special variable winning device 20 is provided among the plurality of areas (the left area 7a and the right area 7b) in the game area 7. . Then, by changing the firing strength of the hitting ball launcher according to the amount of operation of the hitting operation handle 5, the player can change the area for hitting the game ball, such as right hitting or left hitting. Will be able to start the opening control state when the player has the intention to start the opening control state of the winning prize opening, preventing the opening control state from starting at a time contrary to the player's will. be able to.

  While the effect display device 9 is displaying the variation of the effect symbol, a reach state may occur. Here, in the reach state, when the effect symbols that are stopped and displayed in the display area of the effect display device 9 constitute a part of the combination of jackpot symbols, the change of the effect symbols that are not yet stopped and displayed continues. Or a display state in which all or a part of the effect symbols fluctuate synchronously while constituting all or part of a combination of jackpot symbols. In other words, reach means a state in which identification information constitutes a specific display result in a plurality of variable display areas, but at least some of the variable areas are in variable display. In this embodiment, the reach state is formed, for example, in a state where the same symbol is stopped in the left and right symbol display areas and the symbol is not stopped in the middle symbol display area. The symbols stopped in the left and right symbol display areas when the reach state is formed are called reach formation symbols or reach symbols.

  The display effect in the reach state is reach effect display (reach effect). In addition, during the reach, an unusual performance may be performed with a lamp or sound. This production is called reach production. Further, in the case of reach, a character (an effect display imitating a person or the like, which is different from a design (effect design etc.)) or a display mode (for example, a color etc.) of the background image of the effect display device 9 is displayed. ) May change. This change in character display and background display mode is called reach effect display. In addition, some reach is set such that when it appears, a big hit display result is more likely to occur than a normal reach (normal reach), and there is a high degree of reliability with which the big hit display result is obtained. Such special (specific) reach is called super reach.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a special variable winning ball device 20 capable of winning a game ball is provided below the variable winning ball device 15 in the right region 7 b of the game region 7. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 includes an opening / closing plate capable of opening and closing a winning opening called a big winning opening, and an open state (first state) in which a game ball can be won and a closed state (second state) in which a gaming ball does not win. The variable winning device can be changed to As a result, the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is provided in the right area 7b, and a game ball can enter when “right-handed”, but a game ball cannot enter when “left-handed”. The flow path of the game ball is formed by the structure and the arrangement of the nails. The special variable winning ball device 20 is provided in the right region 7b, and the arrangement of structures and nails so that the game ball can enter more easily when “right-handed” than when “left-handed”. Thus, a flow path of the game ball may be formed. The special variable winning ball device 20 is provided in the left region 7a, and a game ball can enter when “left-handed”, but cannot enter when “right-handed”. In addition, the flow path of the game ball may be formed by an arrangement of structures and nails. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is provided in the left region 7a, and the arrangement of structures and nails so that the game ball is easier to enter when “left-handed” than when “right-handed”. Thus, a flow path of the game ball may be formed. Further, the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is configured so that, in the closed state, the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is difficult to win, but can be won (that is, it is difficult for a game ball to win). May be. Thus, the state in which the special variable winning ball device 20 is in the closed state may be a state in which the game ball is difficult to win or does not win the special variable winning ball device 20. That is, the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 has a first state (open state) in which a game ball can be won and a second state (open state) in which the game ball is harder to win or not win than the first state. It may be anything that can be changed.

  When the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is in the open control state, the open / close plate is controlled to the open state by the solenoid 21 so that the large winning opening serving as the winning area is in the open state. The game ball that has won the big winning opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  In the open control state (big hit game state), repeated continuous control is performed in which the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 repeats the open state and the closed state. In the repeated continuation control, a state where the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is opened is called a round (may be indicated by a symbol R). In the conventional pachinko gaming machine, when one game ball enters the specific area in the right generation state, the winning opening is opened once, so the game ball is repeatedly specified several times until the right generation state is finished. It is necessary to allow a game ball to enter the area, and the method of progressing the game is complicated. On the other hand, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, once a game ball enters the specific gate 33 in the right generation state, all the rounds from the first round to the final round among a plurality of predetermined rounds. The opening control of the special winning opening is executed. Thereby, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to simplify the way of progressing the game ball game, corresponding to the progress of the game and facilitating the progress of the game. be able to. Further, in the present embodiment, a plurality of jackpot types are provided, and when it is determined that the jackpot display result is selected, one of the jackpot types is selected. In this embodiment, an example in which the upper limit value of the round number is the same for any jackpot type will be described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the upper limit value of the round number varies depending on the jackpot type. May be.

  Decorative LEDs 25 are provided as lamps (light-emitting bodies) blinking and displayed during the game on the left and right sides of the game area 7 of the game board 6. is there. In addition, two speakers 27R and 27L that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. A top frame LED 28a, a left frame LED 28b, and a right frame LED 28c as lamps (light emitting bodies) provided on the front frame are provided on the outer periphery upper portion, the outer periphery left portion, and the outer periphery right portion of the game area 7.

  In the vicinity of the left frame LED 28b, a prize ball LED 51 that is turned on when there is a remaining number of prize balls is provided, and in the vicinity of the right frame LED 28c, a ball cut LED 52 that is turned on when the supply ball is cut is provided. Further, in the vicinity of the left frame LED 28b, when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on (started up), it is turned on when the probability variation state is established based on the backup data, so that the probability variation is notified. A notification LED 53 is provided. The probability change notification LED 53 is turned off at times other than when the power is turned on, and is turned on according to the state only when the power is turned on. The top frame LED 28a, the left frame LED 28b, the right frame LED 28c, and the decoration LED 25 are examples of effects light emitters provided in the pachinko gaming machine 1. In addition to the above-described various LEDs for production (decoration), LEDs and lamps for production are installed.

  An operation button 130 that can be operated by the player by a pressing operation is provided at a predetermined position on the right side of the hitting ball supply tray 3. The operation button 130 is provided with an operation detection switch 131 for detecting an operation. Note that the operation button 130 is not limited to a button to be pressed, and may be configured by operation means having other configurations such as a pressable jog button and a rotatable jog dial. Such an operation button 130 is requested to be operated when a predetermined effect is performed, for example, an operation is performed according to the effect during the variable display.

  In addition, a prepaid card unit (hereinafter also simply referred to as “card unit”) that enables lending a ball by inserting a prepaid card is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1 (not shown).

  In the hit type table of FIG. 2, for each jackpot type, the jackpot probability after the end of the jackpot gaming state, the base after the end of the jackpot gaming state, the fluctuation time after the end of the jackpot gaming state, the number of times the jackpot is released in the jackpot gaming state (Number of rounds) and the opening time of each round are shown. As shown in FIG. 2, in the present embodiment, a plurality of types of big hit gaming states of a normal big hit and a probable big hit are provided.

  Specifically, in each of the big hit game states of the normal big hit and the probable big hit, after the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is set in the open state, a predetermined open state end condition (for example, 29 seconds in the open state). ) Has passed or a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winning balls has been generated) is closed. When the opening end condition is satisfied, a continuation right is generated and the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is opened again. The generation of the continuation right is repeated until the number of releases in the big hit gaming state reaches 15 rounds (final round), which is a predetermined upper limit value.

  Among the “big hits”, after being controlled to the big hit gaming state, the probability change state in which the probability of being determined as a big hit is higher than the normal state (the normal gaming state that is not the probability change state) as the special gaming state. The type (type) of jackpot that shifts to (an abbreviation for probability variation state, also referred to as high probability state) is called “probability jackpot”.

  Among the “big hits”, the type (type) of big hits that are controlled to the big hit gaming state and then shift to the normal state (the normal gaming state that is not the probability variation state) as the special gaming state is called “normal big hits”.

  In the present embodiment, the special gaming state is controlled to a time-saving state in which the variation time (variation display period) of the special symbol and the production symbol is shortened compared to the non-time-shortening state in association with the probability variation state. Note that the special gaming state may be controlled to the short time state independently of the probability variation state. Further, in the embodiment of the present application, even after being controlled to the big hit gaming state with the normal big hit, it is controlled to the time reduction state. In addition, after being controlled to the big hit game state with a normal big hit, it may not be controlled to the short time state.

  In this way, the transition time to the short-time state reduces the variation time of the special symbol and the production symbol. Therefore, when the short-time state is reached, it is easy for an effective start winning to occur, and a big hit game may be performed. Rise.

  In the present embodiment, as the special gaming state, the frequency at which the game ball enters the variable winning ball device 15 is increased by increasing the frequency at which the variable winning ball device 15 is opened in association with the probability changing state. It is controlled to an electric chew support control state in which the winning to the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is facilitated (increased and increased in frequency). Note that the special game state may be controlled to the electric chew support control state independently of the probability change state. Further, in the embodiment of the present application, even after being controlled to the big hit game state with the normal big hit, it is controlled to the electric chew support control state. In addition, after being controlled to the big hit game state with a normal big hit, it may not be controlled to the electric chew support control state.

  Here, electric Chu support control will be described. As electric support control, normal symbol variation time (time from the start of variation display to display result derivation display time) is shortened and the display result is derived and displayed at an early stage (normal symbol shortening control), normal symbol The control to increase the probability that the stop symbol will be a winning symbol (ordinary symbol probability changing control), the control to increase the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 (opening time extension control), and the number of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased. Control (opening number increase control) is performed. When such control is performed, the time ratio during which the variable winning ball device 15 is open is higher than when the control is not performed. As a result, the game ball is likely to start and win (the special symbol display devices 8a and 8b and the effect display device 9 are more likely to satisfy the variable display execution condition). Further, by increasing the winning frequency to the second starting winning port 14 by such control, a gaming state is achieved in which the frequency of establishment of the second starting condition and / or the frequency of execution of the variable display of the second special symbol is increased.

  The state in which the winning frequency to the second start winning opening 14 is increased by such electric Chu support control (high frequency state) is the number of game balls to be paid out as prize balls according to the winning with respect to the number of shot balls. Since the ratio “base” is higher than when the control is not performed, it is called “high base state”. Further, when such control is not performed, it is called a “low base state”. Such control is control for facilitating winning in the variable winning ball apparatus 15 by supporting the winning with the variable winning ball apparatus 15, that is, the electric tulip, and is referred to as “electric chew support control”.

  Furthermore, as the electric chew support control, by shifting to a state in which any one of a normal symbol shortening control state, a normal symbol probability changing control state, an opening time extension control state, and an opening number increase control state are combined, You may make it transfer to a high base state. In addition, as the electric chew support control, by shifting to any one of the normal symbol shortening control state, the normal symbol probability changing control state, the opening time extension control state, and the opening number increasing control state, You may make it transfer to a state. As described above, as the electric chew support control, any one of a normal symbol shortening control state, a normal symbol probability changing control state, an opening time extension control state, and an opening number increasing control state, any one of a plurality (all) Any control may be performed as long as the control is performed in a combined state or a combined state.

  In the present embodiment, the special game state is controlled to the time reduction state and the electric chew support control state accompanying the probability changing state. Note that the special gaming state may be controlled to the time-saving state and the electric chew support control state independently of the probability changing state. In addition, as a relationship between the short time state and the electric chew support control state in the special game state, the electric chew support control state may be controlled in association with the short time state. You may make it control to a control state.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the control state after the big hit game state of normal big hit is controlled to the time reduction state and the electric chew support control state. It should be noted that the control state after the big hit game state, which is a normal big hit, may be controlled to the electric chew support control state independently of the short-time state.

  In the case of this embodiment, after the big hit gaming state, as the special gaming state, when it is controlled to the probability changing state, it is controlled to the time reduction state and the electric Chu support control state, but when it is controlled to the probability changing state In some cases, it may not be controlled to the short-time state and the electronic chew support control state. In addition, after the big hit gaming state, when it is in the normal state without being controlled to the probability change state, the period is not limited by the number of variable display times, and the short time state and electric support are available until the next big hit occurs. You may make it control to a control state.

  In this embodiment, “high probability state (probability variation state)” and “low probability state (non-probability variation state)” are used as terms indicating the state of jackpot probability, and terms indicating a combination of base states are used. , “High base state (electric Chu support control state)” and “low base state (non-electric Chu support control state)” are used.

  Further, in this embodiment, the terms “low accuracy low base state”, “high accuracy high base state”, and “low accuracy high base state” are used as terms indicating the combination of the state of the big hit probability and the base state. Use. It may be possible to control to the “highly accurate low base state”. The “low probability low base state” is a state indicating that the state of the big hit probability is the low probability state and the base state is the low base state. The “high probability high base state” is a state indicating that the state of the big hit probability is the high probability state and the base state is the high base state. The “high probability low base state” is a state indicating that the state of the big hit probability is the high probability state and the base state is the low base state. The “low probability high base state” is a state indicating that the state of the big hit probability is the low probability state and the base state is the high base state.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the probability variation jackpot transitions to the probability variation state, the time reduction state, and the electric chew support control state (high probability high base state) after the end of the 15 round jackpot gaming state. It is a big hit that controls. In the case of the probable big hit, the probable change state, the short time state, and the electric Chu support control state continue for a period until the condition that the next big hit occurs regardless of the number of fluctuation display times.

  Further, as described above, in this embodiment, the normal jackpot is the non-probability change state, the short time state, and the electric chew support control state (low probability high base state) after the end of the 15 round jackpot game state. It is a big hit where control to shift to is performed. Usually, in the case of big hit, the condition that the time-short state and the electric chew support control state are executed until the predetermined number of times that the fluctuation display is executed 100 times, or the condition that the next big hit occurs, whichever is earlier Continue for the period until the condition is met.

  In addition, as a big hit, the number of rounds is the same for the big hit gaming state, but the number of rounds is such as providing a big hit with an open pattern with a long open time and a big hit with an open pattern with a short open time. There are multiple types with the same opening but different open patterns, and select with different selection ratios when the first special symbol variation display is a big hit and when the second special symbol variation display is a big hit. May be executed.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment adjusts the launch intensity by adjusting the operation amount of the hitting operation handle 5, so that the player can play the game ball in the following manner in the left region 7a or the right region 7b. By being divided into two, it is configured to be easily controlled to a state advantageous to the player.

  In a low base state such as a low probability low base state, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is less likely to be in the open state than in the high base state associated with the short time state, and the first start winning opening 13 is the second start. Game balls are easier to enter than the winning opening 14. Accordingly, when a player wants to obtain a larger number of start winnings in the low probability and low base state, the player only has to aim at the first starting winning port 13 and “left-hand”.

  In the high base state that accompanies the short-time state after the big hit gaming state such as the high-accuracy high-base state and the low-accuracy high-base state, the variable winning ball apparatus can be compared with the low base state by electric support control etc. 15 is likely to be in an open state, and the second start winning opening 144 is easier to enter the game ball than the first starting winning opening 13. Accordingly, when it is desired to obtain a larger number of start winnings in the high base state after the big hit gaming state, in order to open the variable winning ball apparatus 15 provided with the second starting winning port 14, the ordinary gate 32 is opened. Just aim and “right”.

  Further, when the change display result of the special symbol and the effect symbol becomes a jackpot display result and the right is generated, the game is controlled to the jackpot gaming state in which the winning winning opening is controlled when the game ball passes the specific gate 33. Is done. Therefore, when it is desired to shift to the open control state of the special winning opening in the right generation state, it is only necessary to “right-turn” aiming at the specific gate 33.

  Further, when the game ball passes through the specific gate 33 and is in the open control state of the special winning prize opening in the right generation state, it is only necessary to “right-hand” aiming at the special winning prize outlet of the special variable winning ball apparatus 20.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. FIG. 3 also shows a payout control board 37, an effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The payout control board 37 is equipped with a payout control microcomputer that performs control for paying out a winning ball according to a winning according to a program. The effect control board 80 is equipped with an effect control microcomputer for performing various effect controls according to the program.

  The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as a storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit. 57. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the CPU 56 and the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached. The game control microcomputer 560 further includes a random number circuit 503 that generates hardware random numbers (random numbers generated by the hardware circuit).

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

  The random number circuit 503 is a hardware circuit that is used to generate a random number for determination to determine whether or not to make a big hit based on the display result of the special symbol variation display. The random number circuit 503 updates the numerical data according to the set update rule within a numerical range in which an initial value (for example, 0) and an upper limit value (for example, 65535) are set, and generates the random data at random timing. Based on the fact that the starting winning time is the time of reading (extracting) the numerical data, it has a random number generation function in which the read numerical data becomes a random value.

  The random number circuit 503 includes a numeric data update range selection setting function (initial value selection setting function and upper limit value selection setting function), numeric data update rule selection setting function, and numeric data update rule selection. It has various functions such as a switching function. With such a function, the randomness of the generated random numbers can be improved.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 has a function of setting an initial value of numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. For example, a predetermined calculation is performed using the ID number of the game control microcomputer 560 stored in a predetermined storage area such as the ROM 54 (an ID number assigned with a different value for each product of the game control microcomputer 560). The numerical data obtained by the execution is set as the initial value of the numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. By performing such processing, the randomness of the random number generated by the random number circuit 503 can be further improved.

  The game control microcomputer 560 reads the numerical data as random R from the random number circuit 503 when a start winning to the first start port switch 13a or the second start port switch 14a occurs, and starts to change the special symbol and the effect symbol Whether or not to make a jackpot display is determined by determining whether or not to make a jackpot display result as a specific display result based on random R. Then, when it is determined to be a big hit, the gaming state is shifted to a big hit gaming state as a specific gaming state advantageous to the player.

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power supply created on the power supply board. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). In particular, at least data corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control microcomputer 560 (special symbol process flag, value of each reserved memory number counter, etc.) and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are stored in the backup RAM Is done. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control microcomputer 560 is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power failure is restored after the occurrence of a power failure or the like. is there. In the present embodiment, the data (backup data) according to the control state of the game control microcomputer 560 stored in the backup RAM in this way is the right that is set when the right generation state is controlled. Data on an occurrence flag and a probability variation flag that is set when the probability variation state is controlled is included. Further, data corresponding to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are defined as data indicating the progress state of the game. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up.

  A reset signal from the power supply board is input to the reset terminal of the game control microcomputer 560. A reset circuit for generating a reset signal supplied to the game control microcomputer 560 and the like is mounted on the power supply board. When the reset signal becomes high level, the game control microcomputer 560 and the like are in an operable state, and when the reset signal becomes low level, the game control microcomputer 560 and the like are in an operation stop state. Therefore, an allowable signal that allows the operation of the game control microcomputer 560 or the like is output during a period when the reset signal is at a high level, and a game control microcomputer when the reset signal is at a low level. An operation stop signal for stopping the operation of 560 or the like is output. Note that the reset circuit may be mounted on each electric component control board (a board on which a microcomputer for controlling the electric parts is mounted).

  Further, a power-off signal indicating that the power supply voltage from the power supply board has dropped below a predetermined value is input to the input port of the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the power supply board monitors the voltage value of a predetermined voltage (for example, DC30V, DC5V, etc.) used in the gaming machine, and when the voltage value decreases to a predetermined value (the power supply voltage is reduced). A power supply monitoring circuit that outputs a power-off signal indicating that). In addition, a clear signal indicating that a clear switch for instructing to clear the contents of the RAM is operated is input to the input port of the game control microcomputer 560.

  Further, detection signals from the specific gate switch 33a, the normal gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29 and 30 are given to the game control microcomputer 560. An input driver circuit 58 is also mounted on the main board 31. Also, an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 that forms a big winning opening according to a command from the game control microcomputer 560 is also provided. It is mounted on the substrate 31.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 includes a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b, a normal symbol display 10, a first special symbol hold memory display 18a, and a second special symbol hold memory display. 18b, display control of the normal symbol hold storage display 41 and the probability change notification LED 53 is performed.

  The game control microcomputer 560 pays out in response to detection of winning based on one of the first starting port switch 13a, the second starting port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29 and 30 being turned on. An award ball number command (award ball number signal) is output to the payout control microcomputer mounted on the control board 37 as a payout control command indicating the number of award balls. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 by supplying a drive signal according to the number of prize balls indicated by the prize ball number command. The ball payout device 97 is provided with a payout motor for paying out prize balls. As the payout motor is rotationally controlled by the payout control microcomputer, the number of prize balls designated by the payout control microcomputer is paid out from the ball payout device 97.

  Further, the hitting ball launching device for hitting and launching the game ball includes a launch motor 94 controlled by a circuit on the touch sensor substrate 91, and launches the game ball toward the game area 7 as the launch motor 94 rotates. To do. It is detected by the touch sensor and the touch sensor circuit (a circuit including a detection circuit for detecting whether or not the player is touching the hitting ball launching device 5) that the player touches the hitting operation handle 5, and touched. When the signal from the sensor circuit indicates an off state, the driving of the firing motor 94 is stopped.

  The touch sensor substrate 91 is provided with a pulse generator that intermittently generates repetitive pulses (pulse signals supplied to each phase of the firing motor 94 as a stepping motor) and a single pulse generator that generates a single pulse. It has been. When the signal from the touch sensor circuit indicates an ON state, a pulse generated by the pulse generator is supplied to the firing motor 94. Further, a firing stop switch is provided on or in the vicinity of the hitting operation handle 5, and when the firing stop switch is operated, the pulse output of the pulse generator is stopped.

  The pulse output of the pulse generator is also stopped when the firing control signal from the payout control board 37 is turned off. Further, the hitting ball launching device 5 is provided with a single shot switch, and when the single shot switch is operated, a single pulse generated by the single pulse generator is supplied to the launch motor 94.

  In this embodiment, the touch sensor substrate 91 is provided with a pulse generator. However, the dispensing control substrate 37 may have a function of generating pulses supplied to the firing motor 94. In that case, for example, the dispensing control microcomputer generates a pulse, and the generated pulse is relayed by the touch sensor substrate 91 and supplied to the firing motor 94. Also, the output of the firing stop switch is input to the payout control microcomputer. The payout control microcomputer is in a state where the lower pan is full or the supply ball is full, and when the output of the fire stop switch is turned off. Then, the pulse output is stopped.

  Further, the hitting ball launcher is a hitting hammer for hitting a game ball into the game area 7, a coil spring for biasing the hitting hammer, and a hitting hammer biased by the coil spring for releasing from the biased position. A cam mechanism is provided, and the cam mechanism is driven by a firing motor 94. And the fixed position of a coil spring is changed by rotation of the hitting ball launching device 5 to adjust the biasing force of the spring, and as a result, the force (launch strength) for hitting the game ball of the hitting hammer is adjusted.

  As a hitting ball launching device, there is a type of hitting a game ball by fixing a hitting hammer directly to a launching motor 94 by a stepping motor or a shaft of a rotary solenoid. In such a configuration, the rotation angle (position) of the ball hitting device 5 is detected by a variable resistor, and the operating speeds of the stepping motor and the rotary solenoid as drive sources are increased according to the detection result. This adjusts the force (launch strength) for launching a game ball.

  In each of the above-described configurations, the launch intensity operating means capable of adjusting the launch intensity of the hit ball launcher corresponds to the rotatable hit ball launcher 5. Note that the launch stop operation means capable of stopping the launch of the game ball by the hitting ball launcher corresponds to a launch stop switch.

  Further, an information output signal for outputting an information output signal such as a jackpot information indicating the occurrence of the jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer via the terminal board 160 provided on the upper back side of the pachinko gaming machine 1 A circuit 159 is also mounted on the main board 31.

  Further, the CPU 56 creates a predetermined test signal and outputs it to the outside. Here, the test signal is a test signal for enabling the control state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 to be confirmed by a test device provided outside the gaming machine, and is provided by a third party such as the Secure Electronic Communication Technology Association. Output when a formal test is performed. The pachinko gaming machine 1 is obliged to undergo a type test by a third party, and as a result of the test, only models that conform to a predetermined standard are allowed to be shipped as products. The contents of the test vary widely, for example, the number of game balls that can be fired per minute, the number of winning balls that are paid out in a single winning, the performance of an electric accessory, and the performance of a variable display device. As described above, the pachinko gaming machine 1 is tested at a stage before mass production.

  The test signal created in the CPU 56 includes the winning detection signal, the jackpot information, the probability variation information, and the variation display device (first special symbol display 8a, second special symbol display 8b, effect display device 9). Information indicating the operating state of the ordinary electric accessory 14, information indicating the operating state of the normal symbol display 10, information indicating the presence / absence of a firing ball, and an area to be driven such as right-handed and left-handed A plurality of types of signals such as information to be shown are included.

  The main board 31 is provided with a connector mounting portion 311 that is an electrical component for mounting a test signal connector 310 for outputting a test signal generated by the CPU 56 to the outside. The test signal connector 310 includes a signal pin that can connect a probe from a test apparatus as an external apparatus and a connector that can connect a cable from the test apparatus. Such a test signal connector 310 is configured by a connector having a structure capable of giving versatility to a cable connection mode such as a 68-pin double-row connector on one side for testing. In such a test signal connector 310, a test signal to be output is determined in advance corresponding to each pin of the signal output terminal. Therefore, when testing a gaming machine, a plurality of types of test signals as described above can be collectively output to the outside. Accordingly, it is possible to easily perform a type test including a compatibility test related to launching a hit ball, a compatibility test related to payout of a winning ball, a compatibility test related to a variable winning ball device 15, and the like.

  A wiring pattern for transmitting a test signal is formed from the game control microcomputer 560 to the connector mounting portion 311. The test signal connector 310 is mounted on the connector mounting portion 311 only in the pachinko gaming machine 1 used for the test as described above, and is electrically connected to the wiring pattern for transmitting the test signal. On the other hand, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 that is mass-produced, the test signal connector 310 is not mounted on the connector mounting portion 311. Thereby, only in the test pachinko gaming machine 1 in which the test signal connector 310 is mounted on the connector mounting portion 311, the test signal is output to the test apparatus provided outside the pachinko gaming machine 1 via the test signal connector 310. Will be.

  In addition, when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is installed in the game hall, the hall management computer having a function of managing various gaming machines such as the plurality of pachinko gaming machines 1 provided in the gaming hall is as described above. A signal corresponding to the test signal may be output from the information output circuit 159 to the above-described hall management computer via the terminal board 160. In this way, the hall management computer can manage the operating state of the control function of the gaming machine based on the signal corresponding to the test signal of the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (configured by the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 instructs the effect contents from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. An effect control command is received, and display control is performed with the effect display device 9 for variably displaying effect symbols. In addition, the operation detection signal of the operation detection switch 131 for detecting the operation of the operation button 130 is input to the effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board 80.

  Further, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 is connected to the decoration LED 25 provided on the game board 6 via the lamp driver board 35, and the top frame LED 28a and the left frame LED 28b provided on the frame side. The display control of the right frame LED 28 c is performed, and the sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled via the sound output board 70.

  Further, as will be described later with reference to FIG. 5, the game control board 31 is provided with power supply monitoring means for monitoring the power supply voltage.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

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

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

  The effect control CPU 101 reads necessary data from a character ROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The character ROM is for storing character image data displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, a person, a character, a figure, a symbol, etc. (including effect symbols) in advance. The effect control CPU 101 outputs the data read from the character ROM to the VDP 109. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the data input from the effect control CPU 101.

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

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 4 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal. Furthermore, since the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 that is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 toward the inside of the main board 31 is restricted. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (the game control microcomputer 560 side). The output port 571 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit that is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

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

  Further, the production control CPU 101 receives an operation detection signal input from the operation detection switch 131 via the input driver 106 and the input port 107.

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the LED is input to the LED driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED driver 352 supplies a drive signal to each LED provided on the frame side such as the top frame LED 28a, the left frame LED 28b, and the right frame LED 28c. Further, a drive signal is supplied to the decoration LED 25 provided on the game board side. When a light emitter other than the LED is provided, a drive circuit (driver) for driving the light emitter is mounted on the lamp driver substrate 35.

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

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration around the CPU 56 for power supply monitoring and power supply backup. As shown in FIG. 5, the voltage drop signal from the first power supply monitoring circuit (power supply monitoring means or first power supply monitoring means) is connected to the non-maskable interrupt terminal (NMI terminal) of the CPU 56. . The first power supply monitoring circuit is a circuit that monitors a power supply voltage of various DC currents used by the gaming machine and detects a power supply voltage drop. In this embodiment, the first power supply monitoring circuit monitors the power supply voltage of VSL, and generates a low-level voltage drop signal when the voltage value falls below a predetermined value. The power supply voltage VSL is the largest DC voltage used in the gaming machine, and in this example, is + 30V. Therefore, the CPU 56 can confirm the occurrence of power interruption or power supply drop by interrupt processing. In this embodiment, the first power supply monitoring circuit is mounted on a power supply board described later.

  Although the system reset circuit 65 is also shown in FIG. 5, in this embodiment, the system reset circuit 65 also serves as a second power supply monitoring circuit (second power supply monitoring means). That is, when the power is turned on, the reset IC 651 sets the output to the low level for a predetermined time determined by the external capacitor and the capacitance, and sets the output to the high level when the predetermined time has elapsed. That is, the reset signal is raised to a high level to make the CPU 56 operable. The reset IC 651 monitors the power supply voltage VSL, which is the same as the power supply voltage monitored by the first power supply monitoring circuit, and the voltage value is a predetermined value (the first power supply monitoring circuit outputs a voltage drop signal). When the voltage is lower than the power supply voltage value), a low level voltage drop signal is generated. Therefore, the CPU 56 resets the system after performing a predetermined power supply stop process in response to the voltage drop signal from the first power supply monitoring circuit. In this embodiment, the reset signal and the voltage drop signal from the second power supply monitoring circuit are the same signal.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the reset signal from the reset IC 651 is input to the NAND circuit 947 (logical product circuit) and also input to the clear terminal of the counter IC 941 via the inverting circuit (NOT circuit) 944. The counter IC 941 counts the clock signal from the oscillator 943 when the input to the clear terminal becomes low level. The Q5 output of the counter IC 941 is input to the NAND circuit 947 via the NOT circuits 945 and 946. The Q6 output of the counter IC 941 is input to the clock terminal of the flip-flop (FF) 942. The D input of the flip-flop 942 is fixed at a high level, and the Q output is input to an OR circuit (OR circuit) 949. The output of the NAND circuit 947 is introduced into the other input of the OR circuit 949 via the NOT circuit 948. The output of the OR circuit 949 is connected to the reset terminal of the CPU 56. According to such a configuration, since the reset signal (low level signal) is given twice to the reset terminal of the CPU 56 when the power is turned on, the CPU 56 surely starts operation.

  For example, the detection voltage of the first power supply monitoring circuit (the voltage that outputs the voltage drop signal) is set to + 22V, and the detection voltage of the second power supply monitoring circuit is set to + 9V. In such a configuration, since the first power supply monitoring circuit and the second power supply monitoring circuit monitor the voltage VSL of the same power supply, the timing at which the first power supply monitoring circuit outputs the voltage drop signal. And the timing at which the second voltage monitoring circuit outputs the voltage drop signal can be reliably set to a desired predetermined time. The desired predetermined time is a period from when the power supply stop process is started in response to the voltage drop signal generated from the first power supply monitoring circuit until the power supply stop process is reliably completed.

  In this example, the first detection condition for the first power supply monitoring means to output the detection signal is that the + 30V power supply voltage has dropped to + 22V, and the second power supply monitoring means outputs the detection signal. The second detection condition is that the + 30V power supply voltage has dropped to + 9V. However, the voltage value used here is an example, and other values may be used.

  However, although the monitoring range is narrowed, it is also possible to use a + 5V power supply voltage as the monitoring voltage of the first voltage monitoring circuit and the second voltage monitoring circuit. Also in that case, the detection voltage of the first voltage monitoring circuit is set higher than the detection voltage of the second voltage monitoring circuit.

  While power is not being supplied from the + 5V power source that is the driving power source of the CPU 56 or the like, at least a part of the RAM is backed up by the backup power source supplied from the power supply board, and the contents are preserved even if the power source for the gaming machine is cut off The When the +5 V power supply is restored, a reset signal is issued from the system reset circuit 65, so that the CPU 56 returns to a normal operation state. At that time, since necessary backup storage information is stored, it is possible to return to the gaming state at the time when the power failure occurs at the time of recovery from the power failure or the like.

  Although FIG. 5 shows a configuration in which a reset signal (low level signal) is given twice to the reset terminal of the CPU 56 when the power is turned on, the reset release is surely canceled even if the reset signal rises only once. When using the CPU to be used, the circuit elements denoted by reference numerals 941 to 949 are not necessary. In that case, the output of the reset IC 651 is directly connected to the reset terminal of the CPU 56.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the power supply board 910 of the gaming machine. The power supply board 910 is installed independently of the electric component boards such as the main board 31, the display control board 80, the audio output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the payout control board 37, and each electric component board and mechanism component in the gaming machine. Generates the voltage used by In this example, AC24V, DC + 30V (VSL), DC + 21V, DC + 12V (VDD) and DC + 5V (Vcc) are generated. A capacitor 916 serving as a backup power source is charged from a line of power source for driving DC + 5V (VBB), that is, an IC or the like on each substrate.

  The transformer 911 converts AC voltage from the AC power source into 24V. The AC 24V voltage is output to the connector 915. The rectifier circuit 912 also generates a DC voltage of +30 V from AC 24 V and outputs it to the DC-DC converter 913 and the connector 915. The DC-DC converter 913 generates + 21V, + 12V, and + 5V and outputs them to the connector 915. The connector 915 is connected to a relay board, for example, and is supplied with electric power of a voltage necessary for each electric component board and mechanism component from the relay board. Note that a power switch for stopping or starting the power supply to the gaming machine is installed on the input side of the transformer 911.

  The + 5V line from the DC-DC converter 913 branches to form a backup + 5V line. A large-capacitance capacitor 916 is connected between the backup + 5V line and the ground level. The capacitor 916 supplies power so that the storage state can be maintained with respect to the backup RAM of the electrical component board when the power supply to the gaming machine is cut off (the RAM that is backed up by the power supply, that is, the storage means that can be in the storage content holding state) It becomes the backup power supply to supply. Further, a backflow preventing diode 917 is inserted between the + 5V line and the backup + 5V line.

  A battery that can be charged from a + 5V power supply may be used as the backup power supply. In the case of using a battery, a rechargeable battery is used in which the capacity disappears when a state in which no power is supplied from the +5 V power source continues for a predetermined time.

  The power supply board 910 is mounted with a power monitoring IC 902 that constitutes the first power monitoring circuit described above. The power monitoring IC 902 detects the occurrence of power interruption by introducing the power supply voltage VSL and monitoring the power supply voltage VSL. Specifically, when the power supply voltage VSL becomes equal to or lower than a predetermined value (+22 V in this example), a voltage drop signal is output because the power supply is cut off or the voltage drops. The power supply voltage to be monitored is preferably higher than the power supply voltage (+5 V in this example) of the circuit element mounted on each electric component board. In this example, a voltage VSL (+30 V) immediately after being converted from AC to DC is used. A voltage drop signal from the power monitoring IC 902 is supplied to various control boards such as the main board 31 and the payout control board 37.

  The predetermined value for the power monitoring IC 902 to detect the power interruption or the voltage drop is lower than the normal voltage, but is a voltage that allows the CPU on each electric component control board to operate for a while. Further, the power monitoring IC 902 is configured to monitor a voltage that is higher than a voltage for driving a circuit element such as a CPU (+5 V in this example) and immediately after being converted from AC to DC. Therefore, the monitoring range can be expanded for the voltage required by the CPU. Therefore, more precise monitoring can be performed. Further, when VSL (+ 30V) is used as the monitoring voltage, the voltage supplied to the various switches of the gaming machine is + 12V, so that it can be expected to prevent erroneous switch-on detection when the power is turned off. That is, when the voltage of the + 30V power supply is monitored, it is possible to detect a decrease in the level before + 12V created after the creation of + 30V starts to drop. Therefore, when the voltage of the + 12V power supply decreases, the switch output becomes an on-state. However, if the power-off is recognized by monitoring the + 30V power supply voltage that decreases faster than + 12V, the switch output is turned on before the switch output shows the on-state. It is possible to enter a state of waiting for recovery and not detect switch output.

  Further, since the power monitoring IC 902 is mounted on the power supply board 910 that is separate from the electric component component board, the voltage drop signal can be supplied from the first power supply monitoring circuit to the plurality of electric component control boards. No matter how many electrical component control boards need a voltage drop signal, only one first power supply monitoring means is required, so each electrical component control means such as various control boards in each electrical component board will be described later. Even if return control is performed, the cost of the gaming machine does not increase so much.

  In the configuration shown in FIG. 6, the detection output (voltage drop signal) of the power monitoring IC 902 is transmitted to the electrical component boards (for example, the main board 31 and the payout control board 37) via the buffer circuits 918 and 919, respectively. However, for example, a configuration may be adopted in which one detection output is transmitted to the relay board and the same signal is distributed from the relay board to each electrical component board. Further, a buffer circuit corresponding to the number of substrates that require a voltage drop signal may be provided.

  A battery that can be charged from a + 5V power supply may be used as the backup power supply. In the case of using a battery, a rechargeable battery is used in which the capacity disappears when a state in which no power is supplied from the +5 V power source continues for a predetermined time.

  Next, the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 1 will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When power is supplied to the gaming machine and power supply is started, the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, and the gaming control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) After executing a security check process, which is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid, the main process after step S (hereinafter simply referred to as S) 1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

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

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

  If the clear switch is not on, check whether data protection processing for the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) was performed when power supply to the gaming machine was stopped (S7). The power supply stop process is executed in a power-off detection process in S20 described later. If it is confirmed that such a protection process has not been performed, the CPU 56 executes an initialization process. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process.

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

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 performs a game state restoration process (in S41 to S45) for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electrical component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. Process). Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (S41), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55) (S42). The work area is backed up by a backup power source. In the backup setting table, initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set. As a result of the processing of S41 and S42, the saved contents remain as they are in the portion of the work area that should not be initialized. The parts that should not be initialized include, for example, data indicating a gaming state before stopping power supply (special symbol process flag, probability change flag, time reduction flag, etc.), and an area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer) ), A portion where data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (S43).

  Next, it is determined whether or not data indicating that the right generation flag is set is stored as backup data indicating the gaming state before the power supply is stopped (S44). When data indicating that the right generation flag is set is stored, right generation notification for notifying that the right generation state has occurred before the power supply is stopped is executed (S45), and the process proceeds to S46. The right generation notification is executed in a specific notification mode, for example, by flashing a specific number on the first special symbol display 8a. Accordingly, when the right is generated before the power supply is stopped, the right generation is notified when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started. Therefore, the right is generated before the power supply is stopped based on the notification. Can know. Thereby, when the gaming state is restored when the power is turned on, the restored control state can be accurately grasped with respect to the control state related to the transition to the opening control state of the big prize opening.

  In particular, as will be described later, the notification that the right has been generated in the game is executed based on the control of the production control microcomputer 100, and that the right has been generated is notified. Basically, the control data for doing so is not backed up and stored in the production control microcomputer 100. The control data indicating that the game has been notified of the occurrence of a right is backed up and stored on the game control microcomputer 560 side, which increases the control burden on the game control microcomputer 560. Therefore, it is difficult to perform. Therefore, since the right generation notification is executed when data indicating that the right generation flag is set is backed up and stored as in the present embodiment, the control of the game control microcomputer 560 is performed. It is possible to accurately grasp the control state related to the transition to the open control state of the special winning opening without increasing the burden so much.

  The right generation notification is performed by displaying a specific message on the effect display device 9, outputting a specific sound from the speakers 27L and 27R, or causing various light emitting means such as LEDs to emit light for specific light emission. May be performed. On the other hand, when data indicating that the right generation flag is set is not stored, the process proceeds from S44 to S46. When data indicating that the right generation flag is set is stored in S44, a signal for obtaining the right generation state before the power supply is stopped is sent from the information output circuit 159 to the terminal board 160. It is also possible to output to the aforementioned hall management computer via. In this way, in the hall management computer, it is possible to manage whether or not each pachinko gaming machine installed in the game hall is in a right-generated state before the power supply is stopped.

  As will be described later (see the third embodiment), when performing a placement area notification for specifying a region to be placed, such as “right-handed” notification in the right generation state, The placement area notification similar to the placement area notification performed in the right generation state may be executed.

  Further, when the right is generated before the power supply is stopped, the right generation notification is performed at the time of starting, so that the following problems can be solved. The problem is that, in the past, when the right was generated before the power supply was stopped, the right generation notification was not performed at the time of start-up, so after the game hall was closed, the power was turned off during the right generation state. If the power is turned on when the amusement hall is opened the next day, the internal control state is set to the specific gate 33 even though the operation state seen from the outside cannot be recognized as the right generation state. It was possible to set a so-called morning service state as an unauthorized service that can obtain a large amount of prize balls by a simple operation, such as shifting to the opening control state of the big prize opening just by entering. .

  On the other hand, when the right is generated before the power supply is stopped, the right generation notification is made at the time of start-up, so that the right generation notification is made even if the above-described unauthorized service is performed. Thus, it is possible to easily recognize that the service is unauthorized.

  In S46, it is determined whether or not data indicating that the probability variation flag is set is stored as backup data indicating the gaming state before stopping power supply (S46). When data indicating that the probability variation flag is set is stored, high probability notification is performed to notify that the probability variation state (high probability high base state) has occurred before the power supply is stopped (S47). , Go to S14. Specifically, as the high-probability notification in S47, control to turn on the probability change notification LED 53 is performed. The probability change notification LED 53 is controlled to be turned on when it is in a state of probability change when the power is turned on, and is turned off in a state other than when the power is turned on. As a result, when the probability change state (high-accuracy high-base state) is reached before the power supply is stopped, a high-probability notification is performed when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started. You can know that it was in a state (highly accurate high base state). Therefore, when the gaming state is restored when the power is turned on, the restored control state can be grasped more accurately. The high-probability notification is executed in other notification modes, such as using a dual-purpose notification means instead of the high-probability notification dedicated notification means, for example, by flashing a predetermined number on the second special symbol display 8b. You may do it.

  The high-probability notification is performed by displaying a predetermined message on the effect display device 9, outputting a predetermined sound from the speakers 27L and 27R, or causing various light emitting means such as LEDs to emit light in a predetermined light emission mode. May be performed. On the other hand, when the data indicating that the probability variation flag is set is not stored, the process proceeds from S46 to S14. When data indicating that the probability change flag is set is stored in S46, a signal for obtaining the fact that the probability change state has occurred before the power supply is stopped is transmitted from the information output circuit 159 via the terminal board 160. Then, it may be output to the above-mentioned hall management computer. In this way, in the hall management computer, it is possible to manage whether or not each pachinko gaming machine installed in the game hall is in a probable state before the power supply is stopped.

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

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

  By the processing of S11 and S12, for example, a random number counter for normal symbol determination, a special symbol buffer, a total prize ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, and other flags for selectively performing processing according to the control state are initialized. Is set.

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

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

  In S15, the CPU 56 sets a CTC register built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms). That is, for example, a value corresponding to 2 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every 2 ms.

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

  In this embodiment, the reach effect is executed using an effect symbol (decorative symbol) that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9. Further, when the display result of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the reach effect is always executed. When the display result of the special symbol is not a jackpot symbol, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether or not to execute the reach effect by lottery using a random number. However, it is the production control microcomputer 100 that actually executes the reach production control.

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process of S20 to S34 shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing timer interrupt processing.

  In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether or not an on-state is turned on) is executed (S20). The power-off signal is output, for example, when a power supply monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board 910 detects a decrease in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for storing necessary data in the backup RAM area as backup data as described above. The backup data stored in the backup RAM area includes the data related to the right generation flag and the probability change flag described above. Further, in the power supply stop process, a backup flag indicating whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is stored (set) in a predetermined address area. Further, data for checking the data of the backup data (checksum data) is created according to the backup data and stored in a specific address area. Next, detection signals from the normal gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, and the count switch 23 are input via the input driver circuit 58, and their state is determined (switch processing: S21).

  Next, the CPU 56 has a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b, a normal symbol display 10, a first special symbol hold storage display 18a, a second special symbol hold storage display 18b, a normal symbol. A display control process for controlling the display of the on-hold storage display 41 is executed (S22). For the first special symbol display 8a, the second special symbol display 8b, and the normal symbol display 10, control for outputting a drive signal to each display according to the contents of the output buffer set in S32 and S33. Execute.

  Further, a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating each random number for determination such as a random number for normal symbol determination used for game control is performed (determination random number update process: S23). The CPU 56 further performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number (initial value random number update process, display random number update process: S24, S25).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a special symbol process (S26). In the special symbol process, corresponding processing is executed in accordance with a special symbol process flag for controlling the first special symbol indicator 8a, the second special symbol indicator 8b, and the special winning opening in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Next, the normal symbol process is performed (S27). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes the corresponding process according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect control command control process: S28).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs information output processing for outputting data such as jackpot information, start information, probability variation information supplied to the hall management computer, for example (S29).

  Further, for the pachinko gaming machine 1 for testing in which the test signal connector 310 as described above is mounted on the connector mounting portion 311, in addition to the test signal described above, holes such as the jackpot information, start information, probability variation information, and the like are provided. A signal corresponding to data supplied to the management computer may be output as a test signal.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes prize ball processing for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a and the count switch 23 (S30). Specifically, the payout control board 37 in response to winning detection based on one of the first starting port switch 13a, the second starting port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29 and 30 being turned on. The award ball number command (prize ball number signal) as a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls is output to a payout control microcomputer mounted on the. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

  In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the CPU 56 relates to on / off of the solenoid in the RAM area corresponding to the output state of the output port. The contents are output to the output port (S31: output processing).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol display control processing for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of special symbols in an output buffer for setting special symbol display control data according to the value of the special symbol process flag ( S32). For example, when the start speed set in the special symbol process is set, the CPU 56 sets the end flag until the end flag is set. Then, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer is incremented by one. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a drive signal in S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer, whereby the first special symbol and the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b. 2 Executes the variable display of special symbols.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process of setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in the output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( S33). For example, when the start flag related to the variation of the normal symbol is set, the CPU 56 switches the display state (“◯” and “×”) for the variation rate of the normal symbol every 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set. With such a speed, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer (for example, 1 indicating “◯” and 0 indicating “x”) is switched every 0.2 seconds. Further, the CPU 56 outputs a normal signal on the normal symbol display 10 by outputting a drive signal in S22 in accordance with the display control data set in the output buffer.

Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (S34), and the process ends.
With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes of S21 to S33 (excluding S29) in the timer interrupt process. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  When the shift symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9, the change display state of the effect symbol is displayed after the effect symbol change display is started. There may be a case where a predetermined combination of effect symbols that does not reach reach is stopped and displayed without reaching the reach state. Such a variation display mode of the effect symbol is referred to as a “non-reach” (also referred to as “normal shift”) variation display mode in a case where the variation display result is a loss symbol.

  When the shift symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9, the change display state of the effect symbol is displayed after the effect symbol change display is started. After reaching the reach state, a reach effect is executed, and a combination of predetermined effect symbols that do not eventually become a jackpot symbol may be stopped and displayed. Such a variation display result of the effect symbol is referred to as a variation display mode of “reach” (also referred to as “reach disengagement”) when the variation display result is “out of”.

  In this embodiment, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the reach effect is executed after the variation display state of the effect symbol becomes the reach state. Finally, the effect symbols are all stopped and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas of the effect display device 9.

From here, FIG. 9 is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. Each random number is used as follows.

  (1) Random R: A random counter for hit determination for determining whether or not to make a big hit. Random R is updated one by one at 10 MHz, is added and updated from 0, and is added and updated to its upper limit of 65535, and then is added and updated again from 0.

  (2) Random 1 (MR1): Determines the type of jackpot (any type of type, normal jackpot, probability variation jackpot) and jackpot symbol (for jackpot type determination, jackpot symbol determination).

  (3) Random 2 (MR2): The type (type) of the variation pattern is determined (for variation pattern type determination).

  (4) Random 3 (MR3): A variation pattern (variation time) is determined (for variation pattern determination).

  (5) Random 4 (MR4): Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on the normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination).

  (6) Random 5 (MR5): An initial value of random 4 is determined (for determining a random 4 initial value).

  In this embodiment, as described above, the big hit that is the specific gaming state includes a plurality of types of normal big hit and probability variation big hit. Therefore, when the big hit is determined, the big hit type is determined as one of these big hit types based on the value of the big hit type determination random number (random 1). Furthermore, when the type of jackpot is determined, the jackpot symbol is also determined based on the value of the jackpot type determination random number (random 1) at the same time. Therefore, random 1 is also a jackpot symbol determining random number.

  In this embodiment, the variation pattern is first determined using the variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and then the variation pattern determined using the variation pattern determination random number (random 3). One of the variation patterns included in the pattern type is determined. Thus, in this embodiment, the variation pattern is determined by a two-stage lottery process.

  The variation pattern type is a group of a plurality of variation patterns according to the characteristics of the variation mode. One or more variation patterns belong to the variation pattern type. When determining a variation pattern, first, a variation pattern type is determined using a random number for variation pattern type determination (random 2). Then, one variation pattern is determined from the variation patterns belonging to the determined variation pattern type using a variation pattern determination random number (random 3).

  In this embodiment, when a normal big hit and a probable big hit, they are classified into a normal reach fluctuation pattern type that is a fluctuation pattern type with normal reach and a fluctuation pattern type with super reach. Such variation pattern types are selected at a predetermined rate.

  In the case of outliers, a normal variation pattern type that is a variation pattern type that does not involve reach, a normal reach variation pattern type that is a variation pattern type that involves normal reach, and a super reach variation that is a variation pattern type that involves super reach. They are classified into pattern types.

  In such a variation pattern type, when the display result is out of place, the selection ratio of the variation pattern type is different between the time-short state and the time-short state when not in the time-short state (compared to the time-short state and not the time-short state). Therefore, the rate of selection of variation pattern types with a short variation time such as normal variation pattern types is set to be high). , Fluctuation time is shortened. In addition, such a variation pattern type is set so that the selection ratio is different between the case where the total number of memory of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is equal to or larger than the predetermined number and the case where the total number is less than the predetermined number. As a result, when the number of reserved memories of each special symbol that displays a variation is greater than or equal to a predetermined number, the variation time may be shortened compared to when the number of reserved memories of each special symbol is less than the predetermined number . Control for shortening the variable display time in this way is referred to as hold number reduction control.

  In S23 in the timer interruption process shown in FIG. 6, the game control microcomputer 560 generates a big hit type determination random number (random 1) and a normal symbol determination random number (random 4). Count up (1 addition update). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers (random 2, random 3) or initial value random numbers (random 5). In addition, in order to improve a game effect, you may use random numbers other than said random number. In this embodiment, an example of using a random number generated by hardware incorporated in the game control microcomputer 560 (or hardware external to the game control microcomputer 560) as the jackpot determination random number. As shown, random numbers generated by software such as random numbers 1 to 5 may be used as the jackpot determination random number.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table and a jackpot type determination table. FIG. 10A is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54 and is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The jackpot determination table includes a normal (non-probability change) jackpot determination table used in a normal state (a gaming state that is not a probability change state, that is, a non-probability change state), and a probability change jackpot determination table used in a probability change state.

  Each numerical value described in the left column of FIG. 10 (A) is set as a big hit determination value in the normal jackpot determination table, and is described in the right column of FIG. 10 (A) in the probability change big hit determination table. Each value is set as a big hit judgment value. The big hit judgment value set in the jackpot determination table at the time of probability change is the big hit judgment value common to the big hit judgment value set in the normal big hit judgment table (also called the first big hit judgment value), Is added, the number of jackpot determination values is larger (10 times the number) than the probability change jackpot determination table. As a result, the probability variation state is determined to be a big hit with a higher probability than the normal state.

  In the case of this embodiment, in the normal jackpot determination table, the ratio of the jackpot determination value to the total number of random R is 1/100. As a result, the ratio at which the big hit is determined in the normal time (non-probability change time) is 1/100. In the case of this embodiment, in the probability change jackpot determination table, the ratio of the jackpot determination value to the total number of random R is 1/10. As a result, the rate at which the decision to determine the big hit at the time of probability change is 1/10.

  In the following description, out of the big hit judgment values set in the normal big hit judgment table and the probable change big hit judgment table, the normal big hit judgment value set in the normal big hit judgment table is the probability variation. It is also used as a common jackpot determination value in the hourly jackpot determination table, and is called a normal jackpot determination value (also referred to as a first jackpot determination value). Of the big hit judgment values set in the probability change big hit judgment table, the big hit judgment values (also referred to as second big hit judgment values) other than the normal big hit judgment value are the above-mentioned normal big hit judgment values during the probability change. It is used as a unique jackpot judgment value in addition to the judgment value, and is called a jackpot judgment value at the time of probability change.

  The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and compares the extracted value with the value of the jackpot determination random number (random R). The jackpot determination random number value is shown in FIG. If it matches any of the jackpot determination values shown, it is determined that the special symbol will be a jackpot (probability jackpot or normal jackpot). Further, when the jackpot determination random number value does not match any of the jackpot determination values shown in FIG. Note that the “probability” shown in FIG. 10A indicates the probability (ratio) of a big hit. Further, deciding whether or not to win a jackpot means deciding whether or not to shift to the jackpot gaming state, but the stop symbol in the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b is determined. It also means deciding whether or not to make a jackpot symbol.

  FIGS. 10B and 10C are explanatory diagrams showing a jackpot type determination table stored in the ROM 54. Of these, FIG. 10 (B) uses a reserved memory (also referred to as a first reserved memory) based on the fact that the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13 (that is, the variable display of the first special symbol is performed). This is a first special symbol jackpot type determination table (for the first special symbol) used when determining the jackpot type.

  Further, FIG. 10C shows the use of hold memory (also referred to as second hold memory) based on the fact that the game ball has won the second start winning opening 14 (that is, the variable display of the second special symbol is performed). This is a second special symbol jackpot type determination table used when determining the jackpot type.

  Each of the first special symbol jackpot type determination table of FIG. 10 (B) and the second special symbol jackpot type determination table of FIG. 10 (C) is determined when the variable display result is determined to be a jackpot symbol. In addition, based on a random number (random 1) for determining the jackpot type, the jackpot type is determined as either “normal jackpot” or “probability variable jackpot”, and is also referred to for determining the jackpot symbol. It is a table.

  In the first special symbol jackpot type determination table of FIG. 10 (B), there are numerical values to be compared with random 1 values, which are judgment values corresponding to the “probable big hit” and “normal jackpot” (the jackpot type). Judgment value) is set.

  The second special symbol jackpot type determination table of FIG. 8C is a numerical value to be compared with a random 1 value, and the determination values corresponding to each of the “probable big hit” and “normal jackpot” (the jackpot type) Judgment value) is set. In this embodiment, the first special symbol jackpot type judgment table and the second special symbol jackpot type judgment table are set so that the number of judgment values corresponding to “probability big hit” is the same, The number of determination values corresponding to "" is also set to be the same. Accordingly, the first special symbol and the second special symbol are set so that the ratio determined for the probable big hit is the same and the ratio determined for the normal big hit is the same. In the second special symbol jackpot type judgment table, the first special symbol jackpot type judgment table is set so that the judgment value corresponding to “probable big jackpot” is larger than the first special symbol jackpot type judgment table. The table and the second special symbol jackpot type judgment table may be set so that the number of judgment values corresponding to “probable big hit” is different, and the number of judgment values corresponding to “normal jackpot” is different. It may be set. In addition, when the type of jackpot can be selected from a plurality of types of jackpots having different numbers of rounds, the “probable variation jackpot” is determined by the first special symbol jackpot type determination table and the second special symbol jackpot type determination table. Even when the ratio is set to be the same, the data may be set so that the ratio of selecting the big hit type with a large number of rounds (the big hit type that is advantageous to the player for the number of rounds) is different.

  As shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C, the jackpot type determination value is also used as a determination value (big hit symbol determination value) for determining the big hit symbol of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. The determination value corresponding to “probable big hit” is also set as the determination value corresponding to “7” of the big hit symbol of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. The determination value corresponding to “normal jackpot” is also set as a determination value corresponding to “5” of the first special symbol and the second special symbol of the jackpot symbol.

  In this way, in each of the first special symbol jackpot type determination table in FIG. 10B and the second special symbol jackpot type determination table in FIG. 10C, a plurality of determination values are included in one jackpot symbol. It may be associated. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for every jackpot symbol, one judgment value may be associated with one jackpot symbol. For example, if there are 100 symbols from “00” to “99”, for example, the big hit symbol “00” corresponds to the big hit symbol “00”, and the big hit symbol “99” is a big hit. The 100 jackpot type determination values “00” to “99” correspond one-to-one to the 100 jackpot symbols “00” to “99”, such that the type determination value “99” corresponds. You may do it.

  Using such a jackpot type determination table, the CPU 56 determines a type corresponding to the jackpot type determination value having the same random 1 value as the jackpot type, and also uses the jackpot pattern having the same random 1 value as the jackpot symbol. Determine the design. Thereby, the jackpot type and the jackpot symbol corresponding to the jackpot type are determined at the same time.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the command 80XX (H) is an effect control command (variation pattern command) that specifies a variation pattern of the effect symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in response to the variation display of the special symbol. (Corresponding to the variation pattern XX, respectively). That is, when a unique number is assigned to each variation pattern that can be used, there is a variation pattern command corresponding to each variation pattern specified by the number. “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number. The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the start of variation. Therefore, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the command 80XX (H), the effect display device 9 controls the effect display device 9 to start displaying the effect symbols in a variable manner.

  Commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit and the type of big hit. Command 8C01 (H) is an effect control command for designating that it is determined to be out of place. The command 8C02 (H) is an effect control command that specifies that the probability variation jackpot is determined. Command 8C03 (H) is an effect control command for designating that a normal big hit is determined.

  The command 8D01 (H) is an effect control command (first symbol variation designation command) indicating that the variation display (variation) of the first special symbol is started. Command 8D02 (H) is an effect control command (second symbol variation designation command) indicating that the variation display (variation) of the second special symbol is started. The first symbol variation designation command and the second symbol variation designation command may be collectively referred to as a special symbol specifying command (or symbol variation designation command). Note that information indicating whether to start the variable display of the first special symbol or the variable display of the second special symbol may be included in the variable pattern command.

  The command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the effect symbol change display (change) is terminated and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. When receiving the symbol confirmation designation command, the effect control microcomputer 100 ends the effect symbol variation display (variation) and derives and displays the display result.

  Command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (initialization designation command: power-on designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Command 9200 (H) is an effect control command (power failure recovery designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is resumed. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the gaming control microcomputer 560 transmits a power failure recovery designation command if data is stored in the backup RAM, and if not, initialization designation is performed. Send a command.

  Command 9F00 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating a customer waiting demonstration.

  Commands A001 and A002 (H) are effect control commands (hit hit start designation command) for designating the start of the big hit game. The jackpot start designation command is transmitted when the start of the jackpot gaming state for the probability variation jackpot (command A001) transmitted when the start of the jackpot gaming state for the probability variation jackpot is designated, and when the start of the jackpot gaming state for the normal jackpot is designated. And a normal start designation command (command A002).

  The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (special command during opening of a big winning opening) indicating a display during the opening of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big winning opening) indicating the closing of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX.

  The command A301 (H) is an effect control command (a jackpot end designation command) for designating the end of the jackpot gaming state for the probability variation jackpot. Command A302 (H) is an effect control command (ordinary jackpot end designation command) for designating the end of a normal jackpot jackpot gaming state. The jackpot end specifying command and the normal jackpot end specifying command are also called hit end specifying commands.

  Command B000 (H) is an effect control command (normal state designation command) that designates that the gaming state is a normal state (low probability low base state). Command B001 (H) is an effect control command (time-short state designation command) for designating that the gaming state is the time-short state. Command B002 (H) is an effect control command (probability change state designation command) for designating that the gaming state is a probability change state.

  By such an effect control command, it is possible to inform the effect control microcomputer 100 which state or combination of the game state is the normal state, the short time state, and the probability variation state. Thereby, in the production control microcomputer 100, it is possible to recognize which state or combination of the normal state, the short-time state, and the probability variation state, so that the normal state It is possible to perform various effects such as image display according to the time-short state and the probability variation state.

  The command C001 (H) is an effect control command (first start prize designation command for designating that there is a start prize in which the first special symbol variation display is performed for the first start prize opening 13, that is, the first start prize is received. ). The command C002 (H) is an effect control command (second start prize designation command for designating that there is a start prize in which the second special symbol variation display is performed for the second start prize port 14, that is, the second start prize has been given. ). Command C003 (H) is an effect control command (holding memory subtraction designation command) for designating subtraction of the number of reserved memories.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the above-described effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31. Then, the display state of the effect display device 9 is changed according to the contents shown in FIG. 11, the display state of the lamp is changed, or the sound number data is output to the audio output board 70.

  For example, the game control microcomputer 560 designates the variation pattern of the effect symbol every time there is a start prize and the variation display of the special symbol is started on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b. The variation pattern command and the display result designation command are transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100.

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

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

  In the example shown in FIG. 11, the variation pattern command and the display result designation command are displayed as the variation display (variation) of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display. An effect display device 9 that can be used in common with the variation display (variation) of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation of the second special symbol in the device 8b, and performs the effect in accordance with the variation display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. It is possible to prevent the types of commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100 from being increased when controlling the effect parts such as the above.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1, as shown in a third embodiment to be described later (see FIG. 41A), after the jackpot display result (for example, “777”) is displayed as the variable display result, the right is generated. The driving area notification control for performing the driving area notification for specifying the area to be driven, such as “right-handed!” May be executed. By executing such driving area notification control, it is possible for the player to suppress the consumption of useless game balls and to easily advance the game advantageously. it can. Such a driving-in area notification is a notification that is performed when the right generation state is reached, and is also a notification that suggests the occurrence of a big hit gaming state.

  Specifically, the driving area notification control is realized as follows. In step S803 of the effect control process shown in FIG. 38, which will be described later, after the jackpot display result is stopped and displayed on the effect display device 9, the right-hand hit! Is controlled to display the image for informing the driving area. Note that, in the special symbol stop process of FIG. 16, the placement area notification control transmits a command designating the start of the placement area notification when the right generation flag is set by S134 and the right generation state is set, and S135 When it is determined that the specific gate switch is in the ON state, the command may be executed based on transmitting a command designating termination of the driving area notification. In that case, when the production control microcomputer 100 transmits a command designating the start of the driving area notification, the display of the driving area notification image is started and the end of the driving area notification is specified. When the command to be transmitted is transmitted, the display of the image for informing area notification may be terminated.

  Next, the opening pattern data table stored in the ROM 54 will be described. In the opening pattern data table, special variable winning balls including the number of opening (number of rounds upper limit), opening time (opening time during each round), and interval time (time between each round) for each type of jackpot. A data indicating an opening pattern of the device 20 is set.

  For example, in the probability variation big hit, data that the number of releases is 15, the release time is 29 seconds, and the interval time is 5 seconds is set in the release pattern data table. Similarly, in the case of the normal big hit, as in the case of the probable big hit, data that the number of releases is 15, the release time is 29 seconds, and the interval time is 5 seconds is set in the release pattern data table.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process (S26) program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31.

  As described above, in the special symbol process, a process for controlling the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the special winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process, the CPU 56 turns on the first start opening switch 13a for detecting that the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13, and the first winning opening 13 (starting first) When the start winning) has occurred, or the second start opening switch 14a for detecting that the game ball has won the second start winning opening 14 is turned on and the start winning to the second start winning opening 14 is made. When (second start winning) has occurred (S311), start port switch passing processing is executed (S312). Then, any one of S300 to S307 is performed according to the internal state. If the first start port switch 13a or the second start port switch 14a is not turned on, any one of S300 to S307 is performed according to the internal state without executing the start port switch passing process.

The processing of S300 to S307 is as follows.
Special symbol normal processing (S300): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is zero. When the game control microcomputer 560 enters a state where the special symbol variation display can be started, the game control microcomputer 560 checks the number of numerical data stored in the reserved storage buffer (total number of reserved storage). The stored number of numerical data stored in the hold storage buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the combined hold storage number counter. If the count value of the total pending storage number counter is not 0, it is determined whether or not the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is a big hit. In case of big hit, set big hit flag. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) corresponding to S301. The jackpot flag is reset when the jackpot game ends.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (S301): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. Also, the variation pattern is determined, and the variation time in the variation pattern (variation display time: the time from the start of the variation display until the display result is derived and displayed (stopped display)) is the variation time of the variation display of the special symbol. Decide to do. Also, a variable time timer for measuring the special symbol variable time is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to S302 (2 in this example).

  Display result designation command transmission process (S302): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. Control for transmitting a display result designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to S303 (3 in this example).

  Special symbol changing process (S303): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in S301 times out, that is, the variation time timer value becomes 0), the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to S304. Update to the corresponding value (4 in this example).

  Special symbol stop process (S304): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. The variable display on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b is stopped, and the stopped symbol is derived and displayed. Further, control is performed to transmit a symbol confirmation designation command to the production control microcomputer 100. When the big hit flag is set, control is performed so as to enter the right generation state, and when the entry of the game ball to the specific gate 33 is detected in the right generation state, the transition to the release control state is performed. In addition, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to S305 (5 in this example). If the big hit flag is not set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to S300. The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the effect symbol and the decoration symbol when the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received. When the big hit gaming state is a probable change state and the probability change flag is set, the probability change flag is reset (reset regardless of whether the big hit is a promiscuous big hit that is probable. ) Further, when the time-short flag is set in the big hit gaming state, or when the condition for ending the time-short state is satisfied based on the number of times of variable display, the time-short flag is reset. Here, the probability variation flag is a flag that is set when the probability variation state is set and is reset when the probability variation state is determined. The time reduction flag is a flag that is set when the time reduction state is set and is reset when the time reduction state is not set.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (S305): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the pre-opening process for the big winning opening, the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is controlled to open the big winning opening according to the opening pattern as described above according to the type of the big hit. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized, and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special winning opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to S306 (6 in this example). Note that the pre-winner opening pre-processing is executed for each round, but when starting the first round, the pre-opening pre-opening processing is also a process of starting the big hit gaming state.

  Large winning opening open process (S306): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. A control for transmitting an effect control command for round display during the big hit gaming state to the effect control microcomputer 100, a process for confirming the establishment of the closing condition of the big prize opening, and the like are performed. If the closing condition for the special prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to S305. When all rounds are finished, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to S307 (7 in this example).

  Big hit end process (S307): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. Control for causing the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended is performed. In addition, a process for setting a flag indicating a gaming state (for example, a probability change flag, a time reduction flag, etc.) is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to S300.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process of S312. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of the reserved storage buffer in the game control microcomputer 560. In the start port switch passing process executed when at least one of the first start port switch 13a and the second start port switch 14a is in the on state, the CPU 56 is turned on by the first start port switch 13a. Whether or not (S211). If the first start port switch 13a is on, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the first reserved memory number has reached the upper limit (specifically, the first reserved memory for counting the first reserved memory number). Whether the number counter value is 4 or not is confirmed (S212). If the first reserved storage number has reached the upper limit, the process proceeds to S221.

  If the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increases the value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 (S213). Further, the CPU 56 increases the value of the total pending memory number counter indicating the total pending memory number that is the sum of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number by 1 (S214). When the initial value is “0” and a valid first start winning or second starting winning occurs, the total pending storage number counter is updated by adding “1”, and when the variable display is started, 1 "is subtracted and updated. Further, the CPU 56 corresponds to the value of the total reserved storage number counter in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area) for storing the winning order to the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14. Data indicating “first” is set in the area (S215). The reserved storage specifying information storage area will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the reserved storage specific information storage area, when the first start port switch 13a is turned on (that is, when the game ball starts to win the first start winning port 13), data indicating “first” is stored. When the second start port switch 14a is turned on (that is, when a game ball starts and wins the second start winning port 14), data indicating "second" is set. For example, the CPU 56 sets 01 (H) as data indicating “first” when the first start port switch 13 a is turned on in the reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area), 2 When the start port switch 14a is turned on, 02 (H) is set as data indicating “second”. In this case, when there is no corresponding reserved storage, 00 (H) is set in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area).

  Here, with reference to FIG. 13, FIG. 14 (A) is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a reserved storage specifying information storage area (holding specified area). As shown in FIG. 14A, an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the total reserved memory number counter is secured in the reserved specific area. FIG. 14A shows an example in which the value of the total pending storage number counter is 5. As shown in FIG. 14A, an area corresponding to the maximum value (8 in this example) of the total reserved memory number counter is secured in the reserved specific area, and the first start winning opening 13 or the second start Data indicating “first” or “second” is set in the order of winning based on winning in the winning opening 14. Therefore, in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area), the winning order to the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14 is stored. Note that the reserved specific area is formed in the RAM 55. “Formed in RAM” means an area in the RAM.

  FIG. 14B is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a storage area (holding storage buffer) for storing random numbers and the like corresponding to the holding storage. As shown in FIG. 14B, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the first reserved storage number is secured in the first reserved storage buffer. In addition, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value of the second reserved storage number (4 in this example) is secured in the second reserved storage buffer. The first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55. The first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer include a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, and a random number for variation pattern type determination ( Random 2) and a random number for determining a variation pattern (random 3) are stored.

  Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of saving (storing) them in the save area in the first reserved storage buffer (S216). Specifically, in the process of S216, the big hit determination random number (random R), the big hit type determination random number (random 1), the variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and the variation pattern determination random number (random 3) Is saved (stored). With regard to the following description regarding the hold storage, it may be indicated as “hold stored” that the information related to the start winning as described above is stored in the first hold storage buffer or the second hold storage buffer. It should be noted that the random number for variation pattern determination (random 3) is not extracted and stored in the storage area in advance in the start-port switch passing process (when starting winning a prize), but is extracted at the start of variation of the first special symbol. May be. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may directly extract a value from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern determination random number (random 3) in a variation pattern setting process described later.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a first start winning designation command (S217).

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

  If it is determined in S211 that the first start port switch is not in the ON state, if it is determined in S212 that the first reserved memory number has reached the upper limit value, or after S219 is executed, the CPU 56 2. It is confirmed whether or not the start port switch 14a is turned on (S221). If the second start port switch 14a is on, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the second reserved memory number has reached the upper limit value (specifically, the second reserved memory for counting the second reserved memory number). Whether or not the value of the number counter is 4) (S222). If the value of the second reserved memory number counter is 4, the process is terminated. If the value of the second reserved memory number counter is 4, the CPU 56 may perform the process of confirming again whether or not the first start port switch 13a is on (see S211).

  If the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increases the value of the second reserved memory number counter by 1 (S223). Further, the CPU 56 increases the value of the total pending storage number counter by 1 (S224). Further, the CPU 56 sets data indicating “second” in an area corresponding to the value of the total reserved storage number counter in the reserved storage specific information storage area (hold specific area) (S225).

  Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing (storing) them in a storage area in the second reserved storage buffer (S226).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a second start winning designation command (S227).

  In addition, you may implement | achieve the process of S213-216 and the process of S223-226 by one common routine. In that case, the CPU 56 first sets data indicating “first” when detecting that the first start port switch 13a is turned on, and indicates that the second start port switch 14a is turned on. When data is detected, data indicating “second” is set, and a common storage routine (first pending storage buffer or second pending storage buffer) is selected or started according to the set data in the common routine A winning designation command (first starting winning designation command or second starting winning designation command) is selected.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the special symbol normal process (S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 confirms the value of the total number of reserved storage (S51). Specifically, the count value of the total pending storage number counter is confirmed. If the total pending storage number is 0, the process is terminated.

  If the total pending storage number is not 0, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first data among the data set in the pending specific area (see FIG. 14A) is data indicating “first”. (Step S52). If it is data indicating “first”, a special symbol pointer (a flag indicating whether special symbol process processing is being performed for the first special symbol or special symbol process processing is being performed for the second special symbol) is set to “first”. 1 "is set (step S54). If it is not data indicating “first”, that is, if it is data indicating “second”, data indicating “second” is set in the special symbol pointer (step S53).

  In this embodiment, by executing the processing of S52 to S54, the variation display based on the previously stored data among the variation display of the first special symbol and the variation display of the second special symbol. It is executed in order. In this way, in this embodiment, the variable display of the first special symbol and the variable display of the second special symbol are processed according to the order in which the stored memory information is won, so that the variable display according to the order of winning is displayed. Will be executed.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the number of reserved storages = 1 indicated by the special symbol pointer in the RAM 55 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (S55). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 determines each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = 1 in the first reserved memory buffer. Read out and store in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 reads each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = 1 in the second reserved memory buffer. Store in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55.

  Then, the CPU 56 decrements the count value of the reserved storage number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer, and shifts the contents of each storage area (S56). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 decrements the count value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 and stores each storage area in the first reserved memory buffer. Shift content. When the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the count value of the second reserved memory number counter is decremented by 1, and the contents of each storage area in the second reserved memory buffer are shifted.

  That is, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 stores the first reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the first reserved memory buffer of the RAM 55. Each stored random number value is stored in a storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = n−1. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, each stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the second reserved memory buffer of the RAM 55. The random value is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n−1.

  Therefore, the order in which each random value stored in each storage area corresponding to each first reserved memory number (or each second reserved memory number) is extracted is always the first reserved memory number (or (Second reserved storage number) = 1, 2, 3, 4 in order.

  Then, the CPU 56 saves the count value of the total pending storage number counter as a total pending storage number data for determining the variation pattern in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 (S57), and then decreases the value of the total pending storage number by one. That is, 1 is subtracted from the count value of the total pending storage number counter (S58). In this way, by storing the value of the summation pending storage number counter before the count value is decremented by 1 in S57, the summation pending memory number data used when determining the variation pattern is used for executing the special symbol normal processing. Accordingly, the total pending storage number before the count is decremented by 1 in S58, that is, the total pending storage number when the execution condition of the variable display is satisfied is used.

  In the special symbol normal process, first, data indicating “first” indicating that the process is executed for the first start winning opening 13, that is, “first” indicating that the process is executed for the first special symbol. ”Or“ second ”indicating that the process is performed on the second special symbol, that is,“ second ”indicating that the process is performed on the second start winning opening 14. Data is set in the special symbol pointer. In the subsequent processing in the special symbol process, processing corresponding to the data set in the special symbol pointer is executed. Therefore, the process of S300-S307 can be made common by the case where the 1st special symbol is made object and the case where the 2nd special symbol is made object.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads the random R (random number for jackpot determination) from the random number buffer area and executes the jackpot determination module to determine the jackpot (S60). The jackpot determination here is to determine whether or not the special symbol variation display result is the jackpot display result. In other words, whether or not the control can be controlled to the open control state as the jackpot gaming state. In other words, in other words, it is determined whether or not to control to the right generation state that can be controlled to the open control state as the big hit gaming state, and is executed in S60 In the jackpot determination module, the CPU 56 extracts a random R stored in the first hold memory buffer or the second hold memory buffer and extracted in S216 or S226 of the start port switch passing process, and a predetermined jackpot determination value ( FIG. 9) and a program that executes a process of determining that it is a big hit if they match. In other words, the jackpot determination module is a program that executes processing for determining a jackpot.

  In the big hit determination process, when the gaming state is a probable change state (high probability state), the probability that it is determined that the big hit is higher than when the gaming state is a non-probable change state (normal game state and short-time state). It is configured. Specifically, a jackpot determination table (a table in which the numerical value on the right side of FIG. 10A in the ROM 54 is set), in which a large number of jackpot determination values are set in advance, and the number of jackpot determination values are definitely changed. A normal big hit determination table (a table in which the numerical values on the left side of FIG. 10A in the ROM 54 are set) set smaller than the hour big hit determination table is provided. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the gaming state is a probability variation state. When the gaming state is a probability variation state, the CPU 56 performs a jackpot determination process using the probability variation jackpot determination table, and the gaming state is not determined. When it is in the probability variation state, the big hit determination process is performed using the normal big hit determination table. That is, when the value of the random number for random determination (random R) matches one of the big hit determination values shown in FIG. 10A, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a big hit. If it is determined to be a big hit in S60, the process proceeds to S71.

  Note that whether or not the current gaming state is the probability variation state is determined by whether or not the probability variation flag is set. The probability variation flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, and is reset when the probability variation state is terminated. Specifically, it is determined to be a promiscuous big hit or a normal big hit, and is set in the process of ending the big hit game, and when the big hit is determined, the timing for displaying the stop symbol by stopping the special symbol variation display To reset.

  If the value of the jackpot determination random number (random R) does not match any of the jackpot determination values (N in S60), the process proceeds to S75 described later. That is, if it is out of place, the process proceeds to S75 as it is.

  If the value of the jackpot determination random number (random R) matches any one of the jackpot determination values, the CPU 56 sets a jackpot flag indicating that it is a jackpot (S71). Then, the jackpot type determination table indicated by the special symbol pointer is selected as a table used to determine the jackpot type as one of a plurality of types (S72). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 selects the jackpot type determination table for the first special symbol shown in FIG. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 selects the big hit type determination table for the second special symbol shown in FIG.

  Next, the CPU 56 uses the selected jackpot type determination table to select the type corresponding to the value of the random number (random 1) for jackpot type determination stored in the random number buffer area (“probability change jackpot”, or "Normal jackpot") is determined as the jackpot type (S73). In this case, the CPU 56 reads the jackpot type determination random number (random 1) extracted in S216 or S226 of the start port passing process and stored in the first hold memory buffer or the second hold memory buffer, and selects the selected jackpot type. The jackpot type is determined using the determination table.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets data indicating the determined jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (S74). For example, when the jackpot type is “probability big hit”, “01” is set as data indicating the jackpot type. When the jackpot type is “normal jackpot”, “02” is set as data indicating the jackpot type.

  Next, the CPU 56 determines the stop symbol of the special symbol using the jackpot type determination table selected in S72 (S75). Specifically, when the big hit flag is not set, “−” as a special symbol is determined as a stop symbol of the special symbol. When the big hit flag is set, either “5” or “7”, which is a big hit symbol, is determined as a special symbol stop symbol according to the determination result of the big hit type. That is, when the jackpot type is determined to be “probable variation jackpot”, “7” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the jackpot type is determined as “normal jackpot”, “5” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol.

  Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (S301) (S76).

  Note that the process for determining the jackpot as described above is not limited to the case where it is performed before the start of the execution of the fluctuation display, but may be at least the timing until the display result of the fluctuation display of the special symbol is derived. In addition, if there is at least one second reserved memory data in the second reserved memory buffer, the fluctuation display of the second special symbol display 8b based on the second reserved memory data is displayed in the first reserved memory. You may control so that it may be performed with priority over the fluctuation display of the first special symbol display 8a based on the data. When such priority control is performed, the ratio of the second special symbol to be a big hit advantageous to the player when the selection ratio of the big hit type having a larger number of rounds is set higher than the first special symbol. However, it is possible to efficiently digest the stored storage data that displays a highly variable display, so that the interest of the player can be improved. And since the jackpot can be efficiently digested in the right-handed state, the speed of digesting the jackpot can be increased.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (S304) in the special symbol process.

  In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 determines whether or not a stop flag is set (S130). The stop flag is a flag that is set when the variable display that is in the right generation state is stopped and the display result is derived and displayed.

  When the stop flag is set, the process proceeds to S135 described later. On the other hand, when the stop flag is not set, the end flag referred to in the special symbol display control process of S32 is set to end the variation of the special symbol, and the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display is displayed. Control for deriving and displaying the stop symbol on the device 8b is performed (S131). If data indicating “first” is set in the special symbol pointer, the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a is terminated, and “second” is indicated in the special symbol pointer. When data is set, the variation of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b is terminated. Further, control for transmitting a symbol confirmation designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed (S132). When the big hit flag is not set (S133N), the process proceeds to S143.

  When the big hit flag is set (S133Y), the CPU 56 sets a stop flag and a right generation flag (S134), and proceeds to S135. The right generation flag is a flag indicating that a right for controlling to the open control state of the big prize opening as the big hit gaming state is generated. The right to control to the big hit gaming state is generated when the big hit is determined by the big hit determination and the variable display based on the determination is finished. The right to control to the open control state of the big winning opening may be generated when it is determined to be a big hit by the big hit determination.

  When the process proceeds to S135, it is determined whether or not the specific gate switch 33a is turned on. When the specific gate switch 33a is not in the on state, the condition for controlling to the big hit gaming state is not satisfied, and thus the process ends. On the other hand, when the specific gate switch 33a is in the on state, the conditions for controlling to the open control state of the special winning opening are satisfied, so the processing of S136 to S142 is executed.

  In S136, each of the stop flag and the right generation flag is reset. Then, each of the probability variation flag and the time reduction flag is reset (S137), and control for transmitting a big hit start designation command or a normal big hit start designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 is performed (S138). Specifically, if the jackpot type is a probability variation jackpot, a probability variation jackpot start designation command is transmitted. When the jackpot type is a normal jackpot, a normal jackpot start designation command is transmitted. Whether the big hit type is a probability big hit or a normal big hit is determined based on the data indicating the big hit type stored in the RAM 55 (data stored in the big hit type buffer).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a normal state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 in order to return the control state to the normal state once when the big hit occurs (S135A).

  Further, a value corresponding to a pre-opening time T (for example, 2 seconds) is set in the special winning opening control timer (S136). The time T before opening is a time set as a waiting time until the special variable winning ball device 20 is opened in the big hit gaming state (opening control state). Thereafter, in the pre-opening process for the big winning opening, the big winning opening control timer is decremented by 1, and when it becomes 0, the big winning opening is opened and a round is started. That is, when the pre-opening time T elapses, the special variable winning ball device 20 is controlled to the open state. During the time before the opening start, the effect control microcomputer 100 notifies the effect display device 9 that the right has been generated (right generation state display), and a predetermined LED such as the decoration LED 25 is displayed. A predetermined jackpot notification is executed such as causing the light emitting means to emit light in a predetermined manner. The time T before opening is set to the same time regardless of the type of jackpot. Therefore, the pre-opening start time T is set in the same time for the probability big hit and the normal big hit. In this way, regardless of the type of jackpot, the opening of the big prize opening (open control state) is started after a certain period of time has passed since the game ball entered the specific gate 33 in the right generation state. Since the opening opportunity becomes clear, it is possible to ensure fairness among players who have a difference in knowledge about game contents. For example, even when other types of jackpots with different opening times, round numbers, etc., such as a sudden hit, can be executed, the pre-opening time T is set at the same time regardless of the jackpot type.

  In this way, regardless of the type of jackpot, the reason why the opening control of the big prize opening is started after a certain time has elapsed since the game ball entered the specific gate 33 in the right generation state is as follows. is there. In general pachinko machines, when multiple types of jackpots are provided, the performance execution time may be set differently for each jackpot type due to circumstances such as the performance at the time of jackpot occurrence. In such a case, the period from the stop of the variable display to the start of the big prize opening opening control (big hit game control) varies depending on the big hit type, so it cannot be unified. For this reason, there is a problem that the start timing of the opening control of the big prize opening (big hit game control) is not clear. In order to clarify the starting timing of the opening control of the big prize opening (big hit game control) Regardless of the type, the opening of the special winning opening (open control state) is started after a certain time has elapsed since the game ball entered the specific gate 33 in the right generation state.

  Further, according to the jackpot type specified by the data indicating the jackpot type stored in the RAM 55, the release pattern data stored in the ROM 54 is referred to, and the number of releases (in this embodiment, the probability variation jackpot is determined). And normal jackpot each 15 times), opening time (in this embodiment, 29 seconds each for probability variation jackpot and regular jackpot), interval time between rounds (in this embodiment, probability variation jackpot and normal jackpot) The data indicating the release mode such as 0.5 seconds is set in a predetermined storage area (S141). Among such data, the data of the number of times of opening is set in the number of times of opening counter for counting the number of times of opening. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special winning opening opening pre-processing (S305) (S142).

  As in this embodiment, when the probability variation jackpot and the normal jackpot have the same open mode such as the number of rounds, a fixed value may be used as the open mode data set in S141. The process for setting the release mode of the big hit gaming state can be simplified.

  When the processing proceeds to S143, the CPU 56 checks whether or not a probability variation flag indicating that the probability variation state is set (S143). If the probability variation flag is set, the process proceeds to S149 described later, and the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S151). Thereby, when it is in the probability variation state, the probability variation state and the time shortening state are maintained when the fluctuation display that is out of place ends.

  On the other hand, when the probability variation flag is not set in S143, it is confirmed whether or not the time reduction flag indicating that the time reduction state is set (S144). If the time reduction flag is not set, the process proceeds to S149. As a result, in the low-accuracy low-base state that is neither the probability variation state nor the short-time state, the low-accuracy low-base state is maintained when the variability display that is out of place ends. On the other hand, if the hour / hour flag is set, the value of the hour / hour number counter that indicates the number of times the special symbol can be changed in the hourly state (low-accuracy base state) after the end of the normal jackpot is decremented by 1 (S145). It is to be noted that control for transmitting a time reduction number designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed based on the value of the time reduction number counter after the subtraction, and the production control display device 9 displays the remaining number of time reductions on the production control microcomputer 100 side. You may make it display with.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the time reduction counter has become 0 (S145). If the value of the time reduction counter has not become 0, the process proceeds to S149 described later. As a result, in the time-saving state after the end of the normal big hit, the time-saving state in the low-accuracy and high-base state is maintained until the fluctuation display that is out of place is completed a predetermined number of times (100 times). On the other hand, when the value of the time reduction counter reaches 0, the time reduction flag is reset (S147). Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a normal state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S148), and proceeds to S149. As a result, in the time-short state after the end of the normal big hit, when the fluctuation display that is out of place is completed a predetermined number of times (100 times), the time-short state due to the low-accuracy high-base state ends, and the low-accuracy low-base state is entered.

  FIG. 17 is a flow chart showing the special winning opening opening pre-processing (S305) in the special symbol process. In the pre-opening process for the big winning opening, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the big winning opening control timer by 1 (S401). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0 (S402). If the value of the big prize opening control timer is not 0, the process is terminated. As a result, at the start of the big hit gaming state (opening control state), the pre-opening time set as described above is reached until the value of the big winning opening control timer becomes 0, so that the big hit has occurred. Control for notifying is performed. In addition, during the rounds in the big hit gaming state, the interval time set in S440, which will be described later, is used until the value of the big prize opening control timer becomes 0. Done.

  When the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0, the CPU 56 designates the big prize opening opening designation command (A1XX) for designating the display state according to the number of rounds during the opening of the big prize opening (during round). (H)) is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 (S403). The CPU 56 recognizes the number of rounds by checking the value of the number-of-releases counter for counting the number of rounds in the big hit game. Then, the CPU 56 controls the solenoid 21 to open to open the special winning opening (special variable winning ball apparatus 20) (S404), and decrements the value of the opening number counter by -1 (S405). In this way, at the start of the big hit gaming state (open control state), regardless of the big hit type of the probability variation big hit and the normal big hit, the big winning opening is opened when the same pre-opening start time has elapsed. In subsequent rounds, when the interval time set at the end of each round has elapsed, the special winning opening is opened.

  In addition, the value corresponding to the opening time of the round based on the opening pattern data corresponding to the type of jackpot is set in the winning prize control timer as a value corresponding to the maximum time that the winning prize opening can be opened in each round. (S406). As the opening time of the round, the opening time data set in S141 is set. For example, in each case of probability variation big hit and normal big hit, the opening time is set to 29 seconds. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special winning opening opening process (S306) (S407).

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the special winning opening opening process (S306) in the special symbol process. In the special prize opening opening process, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the special prize opening control timer by 1 (S420).

  Then, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the value of the special winning opening control timer has become 0 (S421). When the value of the big prize opening control timer is not 0, it is confirmed whether or not the count switch 23 is turned on (S432). If the count switch 23 is not turned on, the process is terminated. When the count switch 23 is turned on, the value of the winning number counter for counting the number of winning game balls to the big winning opening is incremented by one (S433). Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the winning number counter is a predetermined number (for example, 10) (S434). If the value of the winning number counter is not a predetermined number, the process is terminated. Note that the determination order of S421 and S432 may be reversed.

  When the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0, or when the value of the winning number counter is a predetermined number, the CPU 56 performs control to drive the solenoid 21 and close the big prize opening (S435). ). Then, the value of the winning number counter is cleared (set to 0) (S436).

  Next, the CPU 56 confirms the value of the opening number counter (S438). When the value of the number-of-opening counter is not 0, the CPU 56 designates the post-big prize opening after-opening designation command (A2XX (H)) for designating the display state according to the number of rounds after the big prize opening is opened (after the round is completed). ) Is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 (S439). Then, a value corresponding to the interval time from the end of the round to the start of the next round is set in the big prize opening control timer (S440). Specifically, the interval time data set in S141 is set as the interval time. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the pre-opening process for the special winning opening (S305) (S441).

  On the other hand, when the value of the number-of-releases counter is 0, the CPU 56 performs control for transmitting a jackpot end designation command corresponding to the jackpot type to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S442). Specifically, in S442, the jackpot type is confirmed based on the data indicating the jackpot type set in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55. Then, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to a jackpot end time (for example, a time for performing an effect informing the effect display device 9 that the jackpot game has ended) in the big prize opening control timer (S443), and a special symbol process. The value of the flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit end process (S307) (S444), and the process ends.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (S307) in the special symbol process. In the big hit end process, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the value of the big winning opening control timer in which the big hit end time is set (S154). Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the big prize winning control timer is 0 (whether or not the big hit end time has elapsed) (S155). If the value of the big prize opening control timer is not 0, the process is terminated. If the value of the big prize control timer is 0, the big hit flag is reset (S156).

  Next, according to the jackpot type specified by the data indicating the jackpot type stored in the RAM 55, it is determined whether or not the jackpot type of the big jackpot in the current jackpot gaming state (open control state) is a probability variable jackpot. Judgment is made (S157).

  When the probability variation is a big hit, the probability variation flag is set (S158), and the time reduction flag is set (S159). Thus, after the big hit gaming state (opening control state) is finished, the gaming state is controlled to the probability changing state and the time saving state. As a result, after the big hit gaming state for the probable big hit, the probable change state and the short time state are continuously controlled until the next big hit occurs. In the present embodiment, when the time reduction flag is set and the time reduction state is controlled, it is determined that the electronic chew support state is set in the normal symbol process, and the high base state is controlled.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process for transmitting the probability changing state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S160), and performs a process for transmitting the time-short state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S161). ). As a result, the probability variation state designation command and the short time state designation command are transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100, respectively. Next, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (S300) (S162), and ends the process.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S157 that it is not a probable big hit, that is, if it is a normal big hit, a time reduction flag is set (S163). As a result, the gaming state shifts to the short-time state after the big hit gaming state ends. Then, “100” is set in the time-count counter (S164). As a result, after the end of the normal big hit game state, if the next big hit does not occur, the variable display is continuously controlled to the time-short state until 100 times are executed. As described above, in the present embodiment, when the time reduction flag is set and controlled to the time reduction state, it is determined that the electronic symbol support state is set in the normal symbol process and is controlled to the high base state. Become.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process for transmitting a time reduction state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S165). As a result, the time reduction state designation command is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100, respectively. Next, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (S300) (S162), and ends the process.

  Next, a control state when the special winning opening is opened after the game ball passes through the specific gate 33 in the right generation state will be described using a timing chart. FIG. 20 is a timing chart showing a control state when the special winning opening is opened after the game ball passes the specific gate 33 in the right generation state.

  When the specific gate switch 33a detects that the game ball has passed the specific gate 33 when the right is generated, the special winning opening is opened after a predetermined time has elapsed, and the special winning opening is controlled. Controlled by the state. When the specific gate switch 33a detects that the game ball has passed the specific gate 33 in the right generation state, YES is determined in S135 in the special symbol stop process of FIG. First, the winning prize opening control timer is set to the same pre-opening time T by S140. Then, when it is determined in S402 that the pre-opening time control timer is set to 0 and the pre-opening time T has elapsed in the pre-opening processing for pre-opening in FIG. 17, the pre-opening port is opened in S404.

  As a result, as shown in FIG. 20, when the game ball enters the specific gate 33 in the right generation state, the same winning time is displayed after the same time T has passed, regardless of the type of the big hit. Opening will be started. Therefore, regardless of the type of jackpot, since the opening of the grand prize opening is started after a certain period of time has passed since the game medium entered the specific area, the opportunity for opening the big prize opening becomes clear. It is possible to ensure fairness among players with different knowledge. For example, if the opportunity to start opening the big prize opening differs depending on the type of jackpot due to the length of the period such as the big hit starting presentation executed during the period before the big winning opening opens, such production There is a difference in the number of balls held by the player depending on whether or not a useless game ball is fired during the period between a player who knows the content and an unknown player. On the other hand, regardless of the type of jackpot, if it is controlled so that the big winning opening is started after a certain period of time has passed since the game ball entered the specific gate 33, even if there is no particular knowledge about the game content, Since it seems that it is possible to suppress the launch of useless game balls, it is possible to ensure fairness among players.

  Next, the prize ball process (S32) will be described. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of the prize ball process in S32. In the prize ball process, the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) executes a prize ball command output counter addition process (S501), a prize ball control process (S502), and a prize ball counter subtraction process (S503). To do.

  In the prize ball command output counter addition process, a prize ball number table shown in FIG. 22 is used. The prize ball number table is set in the ROM 54. The number of processes (in this example, “5”) is set to the start address of the prize ball number table, and then the lower address of the switch-on buffer, the lower address of the prize ball command output counter, the switch input bit designation value, The prize ball number data for designating the number of prize balls is sequentially set. The prize ball command output counter is a counter that counts the number of prizes received in the prize opening, and is set in the ROM 54, for example. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a corresponding prize ball command output counter for each number of prize balls (0 to 15).

  In this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 includes a prize ball command output counter 1 corresponding to the prize ball number “15” and prize ball command output counters 2, 3 (2) corresponding to the prize ball number “10”. Corresponding to the three normal winning openings 29 and 30) and prize ball command output counters 4 and 5 corresponding to the number of prize balls “3”. Each prize ball command output counter is counted up by prize ball command output counter addition processing, as will be described later.

  If the prize ball command output counter 1 set in the prize ball number table is not 0, the CPU 56 indicates the prize ball number (15) based on the prize ball number data designating the prize ball number (15). The data is set in the lower 4 bits of the winning ball number command, and the set winning ball number command is transmitted to the payout control microcomputer. The CPU 56 determines the number of prize balls (10) if the value of the prize ball command output counter 1 set in the prize ball number table is 0 and the value of the prize ball command output counters 2 and 3 is not 0. Is set in the lower 4 bits of the winning ball number command, and the set winning ball number command is transmitted to the payout control microcomputer. . Further, the CPU 56 must set the value of the prize ball command output counter 1 and the prize ball command output counters 2 and 3 set in the prize ball number table to 0, and the value of the prize ball command output counters 4 and 5 must be 0. For example, data indicating the number of winning balls (3) is set in the lower 4 bits of the winning ball number command based on the winning ball number data designating the number of winning balls (3), and the set winning ball number command is set. To the payout control microcomputer. In FIG. 22, the switch-on buffer 1 corresponds to the input port 0 and the switch-on buffer 2 corresponds to the input port 2.

  23 and 24 are flowcharts showing the prize ball command output counter addition processing in S501. In the prize ball command output counter addition process, the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) sets the start address of the prize ball number table as a pointer (S5101). Then, the data at the address pointed to by the pointer (in this case, the number of processes) is loaded (S5102).

  Next, the CPU 56 increments the pointer value by 1 (S5103), loads the lower address of the switch-on buffer pointed to by the pointer into the lower byte of the pointer buffer (S5104), and loads the switch-on buffer pointed by the pointer buffer into the register (S5104). S5105). Next, the CPU 56 increments the value of the pointer by 1 (S5106), and loads the lower address of the prize ball command output counter pointed to by the pointer into the lower byte of the pointer buffer (S5107). Next, the CPU 56 increments the value of the pointer by 1 (S5108), and calculates the logical product of the contents of the switch-on buffer loaded into the register and the switch winning bit designation value pointed to by the pointer (S5109). Then, the CPU 56 increases the value of the pointer by 1 (S5110). When the pointer value is incremented by 1 in S5110, the pointer value indicates the address where the prize ball number data in the prize ball number table is stored.

  Next, if the calculation result in S5109 is 0 (Y in S5111), that is, if the detection signal of the switch to be inspected is not in the ON state, the CPU 56 decreases the number of processes by 1 (S5128), and the number of processes is 0. If there is, the process is terminated. If the number of processes is not 0, the process returns to S5103 (S5129).

  If the calculation result in S5109 is not 0 (N in S5111), that is, if the detection signal of the switch to be inspected is on, the CPU 56 performs a process of exchanging the value of the pointer buffer with the value of the pointer ( S5112). In this case, the value of the pointer indicates the address where the prize ball number data in the prize ball number table is stored by executing the process of S5110, and the value of the pointer buffer is the process of S5107. Is executed, the lower address of the prize ball command output counter should have been loaded. Therefore, by executing the exchange process in S5112, the value of the pointer buffer is set in the prize ball number table. The address indicating the address at which the winning ball number data is stored is set, and the value of the pointer indicates the lower address of the winning ball command output counter.

  Next, the CPU 56 adds 1 to the value of the prize ball command output counter pointed to by the pointer (S5113). However, when a carry occurs in the value of the prize ball command output counter as a result of the addition, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the value of the prize ball command output counter and restores the original value (S5114, S5115). Then, the process proceeds to S5116. In S5113 to S5115, the CPU 56 first loads the value of the prize ball command output counter into the register, adds 1 to the register value, and confirms that no carry has occurred in the register value after the addition. After confirmation, the value after addition may be stored in the prize ball command output counter. By doing so, it is possible to prevent waste of adding and subtracting the value of the prize ball command output counter again.

  Next, the CPU 56 accumulates the expected number of winning balls based on the detection of winning in any of the winning openings (first starting winning opening 13, second starting 14, large winning opening, ordinary winning openings 29, 30). Is loaded into the lower byte of the pointer (S5116). Next, the CPU 56 loads the winning ball number data pointed to by the pointer buffer (S5117). Next, the CPU 56 reads the value of the winning counter pointed to by the pointer, and adds the read value to the number of winning balls indicated by the winning ball number data loaded in S5117 (S5118). By executing the calculation of S5118, the cumulative value of the expected number of winning balls obtained by adding the number of winning balls for the newly generated winning ball is obtained. Then, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the value of the pointer (S5119).

  In this embodiment, in the ROM 54, a winning information storage counter is set in the area of the address immediately before the area where the winning counter is set. The winning information storage counter is a counter for counting the number of possible outputs of winning signals (signals indicating the expected number of winning balls). For example, if the value of the winning information storage counter is 1, a winning signal is output once in an information output process described later, and if the value of the winning information storage counter is 2, a winning signal is output in an information output process described later. Is controlled twice. In this embodiment, the pointer value is decremented by 1 in S5119, so that the pointer value indicates the lower address of the prize ball information output counter.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the cumulative value of the expected number of winning balls calculated in S5118 is equal to or greater than a predetermined winning output determination value (10 in this example) (S5120). If the accumulated value of the planned number of winning balls is equal to or greater than a predetermined winning output determination value (10 in this example), the CPU 56 changes the accumulated value of the planned number of winning balls calculated in S5118 to a predetermined winning output determination value. The corresponding value (10 in this example) is subtracted (S5121). Then, the CPU 56 adds 1 to the value of the winning information storage counter pointed to by the pointer (S5122). However, when a carry occurs in the value of the winning information storage counter as a result of the addition, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the value of the winning information storage counter and returns it to the original (S5123, S5124). Then, the process returns to S5120. In S5122 to S5124, the CPU 56 first loads the value of the winning information storage counter into the register, adds 1 to the register value, and confirms that no carry has occurred in the register value after the addition. Then, the value after addition may be stored in the winning information storage counter. By doing so, it is possible to prevent wasteful re-subtraction after adding the value of the winning information storage counter.

  On the other hand, if the cumulative value of the planned number of winning balls calculated in S5118 is not equal to or greater than a predetermined winning output determination value (10 in this example) (that is, less than 9), the process proceeds to S5125.

  By executing the processing of S5120 to S5124, in this embodiment, every time a predetermined number of payout conditions are satisfied (every time 10 winning balls are won), the value of the winning information storage counter Are added one by one, and a winning signal is externally output by an information output process described later. In addition, the winning signal is not limited to an example in which the winning signal is output externally for every ten winning balls, but is controlled so as to be output for every predetermined number of winning balls such as one winning ball or every five winning balls. Just do it.

  In addition, the cumulative value of the planned number of prize balls calculated in S5118 may be 20 or more. For example, when the count value of the winning counter is 9, and a winning to the big winning opening occurs and 15 new winning balls are generated, in S5118, as the cumulative value of the expected number of winning balls 24 will be required. In this case, it is determined as Y in S5120, and the value of the winning information storage counter is incremented by 1 in S5122 (in this case, the cumulative value of the expected number of winning balls is subtracted by 10 in the process of S5121, and becomes 14), and then again. In S5120, it is determined as Y, and in S5122, the value of the winning information storage counter is incremented by 1, and the value of the winning information storage counter is incremented by 2 while one prize ball command output counter addition process is executed. .

  In this embodiment, in the prize ball command output counter addition process during the prize ball process, whether or not the cumulative value of the number of prize balls is 10 or more by executing the processes of S5120 to S5124. In this example, control is performed so as to output a winning signal by performing addition processing of the winning information storage counter. However, the method of outputting the winning signal is limited to that shown in this embodiment. Absent. For example, in the prize ball command output counter addition process, only the prize counter addition process is performed. In the information output process of S31, it is determined whether or not the value of the prize counter is 10 or more. For example, control may be performed so that a winning signal is output. In this case, similarly to the above, if the value of the winning counter is 20 or more, in the information output process, the process of determining whether or not the winning counter value is 10 or more is repeatedly executed, and the value of the winning information storage counter is determined. May be processed so that the winning signal can be output twice.

  Further, for example, in this embodiment, after performing the update processing of the winning information storage counter, the case where the winning signal is externally output based on the value of the winning information storage counter in the information output processing described later is shown. Instead of using the winning information storage counter, if it is determined in S5120 that the accumulated value is 10 or more, the winning signal external output processing may be performed immediately in the winning ball command output counter addition processing. In this case, in this embodiment, the result accumulated value of S5118 is 10 or more and less than 20, and it is necessary to output a winning signal once, and the result accumulated value of S5118 is 20 or more (this implementation) There are two cases, that is, it is not necessary to output the winning signal twice. Therefore, for example, as a table for outputting a winning signal, a table for outputting a winning signal once (a table in which the on time and off time of one winning signal are set) and a winning signal are continuously provided. A table for outputting twice (a table in which the on time and off time of the winning signal for two times are set) may be prepared. Then, if the calculated accumulated value is 10 or more and less than 20, control is performed to externally output the winning signal once in the winning ball command output counter addition process using the table for outputting the winning signal once. If the calculated accumulated value is 20 or more, a table for outputting the winning signal twice is used to control the winning signal to be externally output twice continuously in the winning ball command output counter addition process. May be.

  If the cumulative value calculated in S5118 exceeds 20, as described above, the winning signal is continuously generated in the winning ball command output counter addition process using the table for outputting the winning signal twice. In the prize ball command output counter addition process, the determination process of S5120 is repeated until the calculation result is less than 10, and the external output of the winning signal is continuously performed twice. Also good. Also, for example, when the winning ball command output counter addition process executed within one timer interrupt is performed so that a winning signal is output only once, and when the next timer interrupt is executed, the winning ball command output counter addition process is executed. The next winning signal may be externally output based on the accumulated value being 10 or more.

  Next, in S5125, the CPU 56 adds 1 to the pointer value (therefore, the pointer value returns to the state indicating the lower address of the winning counter). Next, the CPU 56 stores the calculation result of the cumulative value of the expected number of winning balls in the winning counter pointed by the pointer (S5126). In this case, if the process proceeds to S5125 and subsequent steps without being determined as Y once in S5120, the cumulative value of the expected number of winning balls obtained in S5118 is stored in the winning counter as it is. If it is determined as Y in S5120 and the processing after S5121 is being executed, the accumulated value of the number of expected winning balls after subtraction is stored in the winning counter in S5121. As a result of the determination process in S5120 and the subtraction process in S5121, the value less than 10 is always stored in the winning counter in S5126.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs processing for exchanging the pointer buffer value and the pointer value (S5127). In this case, since the address storing the prize ball number data in the prize ball number table is saved in the pointer buffer by executing the process of S5112, the pointer is saved by executing the process of S5127. Is returned to the state indicating the address where the prize ball number data in the prize ball number table is stored again.

  Then, the CPU 56 reduces the number of processes by 1 (S5128), ends the process if the number of processes is 0, and returns to S5103 if the number of processes is not 0 (S5129).

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the prize ball control process in S502. In the prize ball control process, the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) determines the prize ball transmission process 1 (S521), prize ball connection confirmation process (S522), according to the value of the prize ball process code. One of prize ball transmission processing 2 (S523), prize ball reception confirmation processing (S524), and prize ball end confirmation processing (S525) is executed.

  In the prize ball transmission process 1 (S521) and the prize ball connection confirmation process (S522), the connection confirmation command is transmitted to the payout control microcomputer, thereby confirming the connection with the payout control microcomputer. Processing such as processing is performed. In the prize ball transmission process 2 (S523), a prize ball number command for instructing the number of prize balls to be paid out is sent to the payout control microcomputer in accordance with winning. In the prize ball reception confirmation process (S524), the prize ball reception confirmation is performed by receiving the prize ball number reception command returned from the payout control microcomputer in response to the transmitted prize ball number command. In the prize ball end confirmation process (S525), a process for ending the process relating to the payout of the prize ball is performed based on the confirmation of the prize ball receipt.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the prize ball transmission process 2 (S523) executed when the value of the prize ball process code is 2. In the prize ball transmission process 2, the CPU 56 checks whether or not any prize ball command output counters 1 to 5 have a count value other than 0 (S52301). If there is no count value other than 0, then the flow shifts to S52313.

  If any of the prize ball command output counters 1 to 5 has a count value other than 0 (that is, if the count value is 1 or more), the CPU 56 loads the contents of the frame state display buffer. Then, it is confirmed whether or not the content of the frame state display buffer is 0 (S5232). If the content of the frame state display buffer is not 0, the processing is terminated as it is. By controlling in such a manner, when the connection OK command in which the error information is set is received and controlled to the payout stop state on the payout control microcomputer side, the processing is not shifted to S52303 and the subsequent steps. Control to suspend transmission of prize ball number command.

  If the content of the frame status display buffer is 0 (that is, if no error relating to payout has occurred), the payout control microcomputer will determine the number of prize balls corresponding to the prize ball command output counter whose count value is not 0. The number is set in the number buffer (S52303). Specifically, in S52301, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the count value of the prize ball command output counter 1 is zero. If the count value of the prize ball command output counter 1 is 1 or more, the CPU 56 sets 15 prize balls in the number buffer in S52303. In S52301, if the count value of the prize ball command output counter 1 is 0, the CPU 56 checks whether the count values of the prize ball command output counters 2 and 3 are 0 or not. If the count value of the prize ball command output counters 2 and 3 is 1 or more, in S52303, the CPU 56 sets the number of prize balls to 10 in the number buffer. Further, in S52301, when the count value of the prize ball command output counters 2 and 3 is also 0, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the count value of the prize ball command output counters 4 and 5 is 0. If the count value of the prize ball command output counters 4 and 5 is 1 or more, in S52303, the CPU 56 sets the number of prize balls in the number buffer.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the number of prize balls corresponding to the prize ball command output counter whose count value is not 0 in the prize ball number command (S52304), and outputs the prize ball number command in which the number of prize balls is set to the payout control micro. Control to transmit to the computer is performed (S52305). Specifically, the CPU 56 performs a process of outputting a prize ball number command in which the prize ball number is set to the transmission data register of the serial communication circuit 505.

  By executing the processing of S52301 and S52305, in this embodiment, if there is a prize ball command output counter whose count value is not 0 regardless of the connection confirmation command transmission timing (ie, If there is a prize ball number storage and a predetermined payout condition is satisfied), a prize ball number command is transmitted to the payout control microcomputer.

  Then, the CPU 56 sets a value “3” indicating a prize ball reception confirmation process in the prize ball process code (S52306), and sets a connection confirmation time 2 (for example, 10 seconds) in the prize ball process timer (S52307). It should be noted that, based on the connection confirmation time 2 set in S52307, it is confirmed whether or not a prize ball number acceptance command or a prize ball preparation command is received within 10 seconds after the prize ball number command is transmitted. Specifically, when a time-out occurs after 10 seconds have elapsed without receiving a prize ball number acceptance command or a prize ball preparation command by the prize ball process timer set in S52307, the process returns to the prize ball transmission process 1 and next. The connection confirmation command is sent.

  If the prize ball number command is transmitted in S52305 by executing the process in S52306, the process proceeds to the prize ball reception confirmation process without returning to the prize ball transmission process 1 including the connection confirmation command transmission process. . Therefore, in this embodiment, the process of repeatedly transmitting the connection confirmation command is executed every predetermined time (for example, 1 second) until the prize ball number command is transmitted, but the prize ball number command is transmitted. The control for transmitting the connection confirmation command is stopped based on the situation (more specifically, after the prize ball number command is transmitted, the process proceeds to the prize ball end confirmation process by receiving the prize ball number acceptance command to be described later. (See S52403 to S52405) or by repeating the prize ball receipt confirmation process by receiving the prize ball preparation command, the control for transmitting the connection confirmation command without returning to the prize ball transmission process 1 is stopped. In this case, an abnormal state occurs in which no payout control command is returned from the payout control microcomputer side. Unless, after sending the winning balls number command until it receives a prize balls end command to end the prize balls paid out operation and does not connect confirmation command from the gaming control microcomputer 560 is transmitted.

  Next, the CPU 56 adds the value of the number buffer set in S52303 to the prize ball number counter (S52308), and confirms whether the count value after the addition is equal to or greater than a predetermined prize ball shortage determination value (for example, 501). (S52309). In this embodiment, the prize ball number counter is a counter used for grasping the number of prize balls that have not been paid out on the game control microcomputer 560 side, and when the prize ball number command is transmitted, The number of prize balls designated in (1) is added, and every time 10 prize balls are detected, 10 is subtracted based on the prize ball information output from the payout control microcomputer. Further, as described above, the prize ball number counter is set to “250” as an initial value in the initial setting process of the main process. When the count value of the prize ball counter reaches a predetermined prize ball shortage determination value (for example, 501) or more, the number of unpaid prize balls is abnormally too large, resulting in a situation of insufficient prize balls. Can be determined. Further, when the count value of the prize ball number counter is less than a predetermined prize ball excess determination value (for example, 0), an abnormally large number of game balls have been paid out in excess of the number to be originally paid out. Therefore, it can be determined that an excessive number of prize balls has occurred.

  In this embodiment, the prize ball number counter is added (see S52308) immediately after the prize ball number command is transmitted (see S52305), but the timing at which the prize ball number command is transmitted is shown. If, for example, the award ball number counter is added, the award ball number command may be transmitted immediately thereafter.

  In addition, when it is determined that there is a shortage of prize balls, there is a case where a failure occurs on the payout control microcomputer side and the payout operation cannot be performed normally, and the signal line for outputting prize ball information is disconnected. Is also possible. On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of prize balls is excessive, a command for sending a prize ball number command may be used in addition to a case where the payout control microcomputer side has some trouble and the payout operation is performed more than necessary. There may be a case where some fraud is applied to the line and the award ball number command is illegally input to the payout control microcomputer.

  When the count value of the prize ball number counter is equal to or greater than a predetermined prize ball shortage determination value (for example, 501), the CPU 56 displays a prize ball error flag indicating that a prize ball shortage or a prize ball excess has occurred. It is confirmed whether it has already been set (S52310). If the prize ball error flag has already been set, the process is terminated. If the prize ball error flag is not set, the CPU 56 sets a prize ball error flag (S52311) and controls to send a prize ball shortage error command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (S52312). Specifically, the CPU 56 performs a process of setting the address of the winning ball shortage error command transmission table as a pointer. Then, based on the fact that the address of the prize ball shortage error command transmission table is set to the pointer in S52312, the effect symbol command error control command is executed in S30, whereby the prize ball shortage error command is changed to the effect control micro. It is transmitted to the computer 100. Note that once the prize ball error flag is set, it is maintained without being cleared until the power supply to the gaming machine is turned on again after the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. In this embodiment, regarding the communication between the game control microcomputer 560 and the effect control microcomputer 100, a command is transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100. Only, not the other way around.

  In S52313, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the prize ball process timer has timed out. If the winning ball process timer has timed out (that is, if no winning ball has been stored and no new winning has occurred by the time one second has elapsed after receiving the connection OK command), the CPU 56 Then, the value “0” indicating the prize ball transmission process 1 is set in the prize ball process code (S52314), and the process ends. If the winning ball process timer has not timed out, the CPU 56 decrements the value of the winning ball process timer by 1 (S52315).

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating an example of timer interrupt processing executed by the payout control microcomputer. In the timer interrupt process, the payout control microcomputer of the payout control microcomputer executes the following process. First, the payout control microcomputer performs a switch check process (S751). In the switch check process, the payout control microcomputer turns on / off a payout number count switch for counting the number of payouts based on the input of the input port 1 and an error release switch for disclosing an error state. Processing to check the status is performed. Next, the payout control microcomputer performs an input determination process (S752). The input determination process is a process of detecting the state of the input signal and reflecting the detection result in a predetermined 1 byte of the RAM (referred to as a sensor input state flag). The payout control microcomputer checks the state of the sensor input state flag instead of directly checking the state of the input port when performing control based on the state of bits 0 to 7 of the input port 0. .

  Next, the payout control microcomputer executes a prepaid card unit control process for communicating with the card unit (S753). Next, the payout control microcomputer executes main control communication processing for communicating with the game control microcomputer 560 of the main board 31 (S754). Processing for receiving the prize ball number command output from the game control microcomputer 560 as described above is performed in such main control communication processing.

  Next, the payout control microcomputer performs control for paying out the lent balls in response to a ball lending request from the card unit 50, and controls for paying out the number of prize balls indicated by the prize ball number command from the main board 31. A payout control process is executed (S755). In the payout control process, in order to pay out the number of prize balls indicated by the prize ball number command received in the main control communication process, the number of prize balls to be paid out (unpaid quantity) is set. In this embodiment, in the case of a big hit game state, and when paying a prize ball based on a win to a big prize opening during a big hit game, at least a predetermined time (in this example, 30 seconds after finishing the final round of the big hit game, and 20 seconds after finishing the ending effect.)

  Next, the payout control microcomputer executes a payout motor control process for driving the ball payout device 97 (S756). In the payout motor control process, in order to pay out the number of prize balls set in the payout control process, the number of rotations (operation amount) of the payout motor in the ball payout device 97 is set, and the payout motor is driven based on the setting. The award ball is then paid out. Next, the payout control microcomputer executes error processing for detecting various errors (S757). Also, the payout control microcomputer executes a prepaid card unit error control process for controlling the error of the card unit (S758). Next, the payout control microcomputer executes information output processing for outputting the prize ball information to the main board 31 and for outputting the prize ball signal 1 and the gaming machine error status signal to the outside (S759). Further, a display control process for performing a predetermined display on the error display LED according to the result of the error process is executed (S760).

  In the present embodiment, when various errors related to payout control (for example, payout quantity error, full tank error, out of ball error, prepaid card unit unconnected error) are detected in predetermined error processing, The corresponding error bit is set. Then, in the display control process of S760, based on the fact that the error bit is set, the payout control microcomputer performs a predetermined display on the error display LED 374.

  In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port 0 buffer, output port 1 buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. However, the payout control microcomputer includes an output port 0 buffer, The contents of the output port 1 buffer are output to the output port (S761: output processing). The output port 0 buffer and the output port 1 buffer are updated by the payout motor control process (S756), the prepaid card control process (S753), the main control communication process (S754), the information output process (S759), and the display control process (S760). Is done.

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the information output process of S31 in the timer interrupt process of FIG. In the information output process, first, a start port signal output process for outputting a start port signal output from the first start port switch 13a and the second start port switch 14a is executed (S251). Then, a winning signal process for outputting a winning signal output from a winning detection switch such as the count switch 23 is executed (S252). Further, a symbol determination number signal output process for outputting a symbol determination number signal is executed (S253). Also, a jackpot signal for outputting a jackpot signal output in the jackpot gaming state and a jackpot signal for outputting the hourly signal output in the time-short state, and a time-short signal output process are executed (S254). Further, the high-accuracy signal output process for outputting the high-accuracy signal output in the high-probability state is executed (S255).

  Then, based on the information to be externally output based on the respective processes of S251 to S255, an information buffer provided as a buffer for externally outputting the information is set to an output value based on the processes of S251 to S255 (S256). . Then, by outputting the set output value to the output port (S257), information to be externally output based on each processing of S251 to S255 is output from the output port (turns on). The output information signal thus turned on is turned off when the timer set and counted based on the processing of S251 to S255 times out.

  Next, the winning signal output process executed in S252 of FIG. 28 will be described. FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing a winning signal output process.

  In the winning signal output process, the CPU 56 sets the corresponding winning output bit position in the information output buffer for the winning signal (S261). Then, the CPU 56 sets the address of a winning information storage timer, which is a timer for measuring the on time and off time of the winning signal signal, in the pointer (S262), and executes a winning timer setting process (S263).

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the winning timer setting process executed in S262 of the winning signal output process. In the winning timer setting process, the CPU 56 first loads the information storage timer pointed to by the pointer (S2001), reflects the state of the loaded information storage timer in the flag register (S2002), and determines whether the signal is being output. Is determined (S2003). In this case, the winning information storage timer is loaded, the state is reflected in the flag register, and it is determined whether or not the winning signal is being output.

  The winning information storage timer is a timer for measuring an on time and an off time (for example, an on time of 100 ms and an off time of 100 ms) of the winning signal. If the value of the winning information storage timer is not 0, it is determined that the winning signal is being output. If the value of the winning information storage timer is 0, it is determined that the winning signal is not being output.

  If the winning signal is being output (Y in S2003), the process proceeds to S2012. If the winning signal is not being output (N in S2003), the CPU 56 adds 1 to the value of the pointer (S2004). In this embodiment, a winning information storage counter is set in the ROM 54 in an area next to the area where the winning information storage timer is set. Therefore, when the process of S2004 is executed, the pointer value indicates the address of the winning information storage counter.

  Next, the CPU 56 loads the information storage counter (winning information storage counter) pointed to by the pointer (S2005), reflects the state of the loaded information storage counter (winning information storage counter) in the flag register (S2006), and receives a winning signal. It is determined whether there is a remaining number of output times (S2007).

  In addition, when a winning occurs in any of the winning openings (the first starting winning opening 13, the second starting winning opening 14, the large winning opening, the normal winning openings 29, 30), the number of planned winning balls is ten. Each time it accumulates, the winning information storage counter is incremented (see S5122 in FIG. 24), so that it is determined that there is a remaining number of winning signal output times.

  If there is no remaining number of output of the winning signal (Y in S2007), the winning timer setting process is terminated. If there is a remaining number of outputs of the winning signal (N in S2007), the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the information storage counter winning information storage counter pointed to by the pointer (S2008), and the operation result (the result of subtracting 1) is stored in the information storage counter. Store in the (winning information storage counter) (S2009). Then, the winning information operating time (50) is set in the register (S2010). The winning information operating time (50) is a time for which a 4 ms timer interrupt is executed 50 times, that is, a time of 0.200 seconds (200 ms).

  Next, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the value of the pointer (S2011). By executing the processing of S2011, the pointer value returns to the state indicating the address of the winning information storage timer. Then, the process proceeds to S2012.

  Next, if the winning information operating time is not set in S2010, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the information storage timer (winning information storing timer) pointed to by the pointer. If the winning information operating time is set in S2010, the winning information operation is performed. The time is subtracted by 1 (S2012). Then, the calculation result (the result obtained by subtracting 1) is stored in the information storage timer (winning information storage timer) pointed to by the pointer (S2013).

  The CPU 56 compares the calculation result with the winning information on time (25) (S2014), and determines whether the calculating result is shorter than the winning information on time (S2015). The winning information on time (25) is a time for which a 4 ms timer interruption is executed 25 times, that is, a time of 0.100 seconds (100 ms).

  When the calculation result is not shorter than the winning information on time, that is, when the calculation result (remaining time of the winning information storage timer) is longer than the winning information on time (100 ms) (N in S2015), the CPU 56 Loads the information buffer (S2016), and calculates the logical sum of the loaded information buffer value and the information output buffer value (S2017). Then, the CPU 56 stores the calculation result of S2017 in the information buffer (S2018).

  By executing the processing of S2016 to S2018, the logical output of the value of the loaded information buffer and the value of the information output buffer in which the winning output bit is set is obtained, so that the winning output bit of the information buffer is obtained. The position is set. When the winning output bit position of the information buffer is set, the information buffer is set to the output value in S256 of the subsequent information output processing, and the output value is output to the output port in S257, so that the winning signal is output to the output port. Will be output.

  In this way, any one of the winning openings (the first starting winning opening 13, the second starting winning opening 14, the large winning opening, the normal winning openings 29, 30) is generated, and the expected number of winning balls is accumulated. Each time a winning signal is output. That is, after the winning signal is turned on for 100 ms, it is turned off for 100 ms. By inputting this winning signal to the hall computer, the expected number of winning balls can be recognized.

  Since the winning signal is turned on for 100 ms and then turned off for 100 ms, even if a start winning is continuously generated in a short time, the next winning signal is displayed after the off state for 100 ms. Is output. In other words, the winning signals are output with an interval of at least 100 ms.

  In this way, the winning signals are output with an interval of at least 100 ms, so that the hall computer can reliably grasp the total number of planned winning balls.

  In this embodiment, when the winning signal is output to the outside, first, the processing of S2012 is executed to subtract the value of the winning information storage timer, and then S2018, S256, S257 are executed to send the winning signal to the external Although the case of outputting is shown, the processing order of the subtraction processing of the winning information storage timer and the winning signal external output processing is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, first, the same processing as S2018, S256, S257 may be executed to perform the external output processing of the winning signal, and then the same processing as S2012 may be performed to subtract the value of the winning information storage timer. .

  In the above-described FIGS. 21 to 30, for example, the following control contents are shown. When there are winnings in various winning ports, a prize ball number command is transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560, and the payout control microcomputer that receives the prize ball number command receives the number specified by the prize ball number command. The ball payout control for paying out the prize balls is executed. More specifically, the state of the signals of the various winning detection switches is confirmed in S5101 to S5112, and when a winning detection is made, in S5113 of FIG. 23, a winning ball command output counter provided for each number of winning balls is set. By updating the addition, the number of output of the winning ball number command to be output for each winning ball number is set. In parallel with this, in S5119 of FIG. 23, the total number of prize balls output as the prize ball number command is added. Then, in S5119 of FIG. 24, every time the total value of the number of winning balls to be added exceeds 10, the winning information storage counter is added and updated, thereby outputting a winning signal that is output in a pulse every 10 scheduled payouts. The number of times is set.

  26, when the value of the prize ball command output counter that is added and updated as described above is not “0”, the type of the prize ball command output counter whose value is not “0” is determined by S52303 to S52305. A prize ball number command designating the corresponding number of prize balls is transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 to the payout control microcomputer. In the payout control microcomputer, the payout motor is controlled by S754 to S756 in FIG. 27 to control the payout of the number of prize balls designated by the received prize ball number command.

  Further, as described above, when the prize information storage counter is added and updated in accordance with the addition and update of the prize ball command output counter, the prize balls are changed according to S2002 to S2018 in FIG. 30 and S256 and S257 in FIG. Control for outputting a winning signal to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is performed for every 10 payout schedules.

  As described above, when a winning ball payout condition such that the condition for outputting the winning ball number command is satisfied, a payout condition for paying out a predetermined number (10) of winning balls is satisfied. Is controlled to be output to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1. Thus, outside the pachinko machine 1, it is possible to receive a winning signal when the payout condition is satisfied without waiting until the time when the winning ball is actually paid out. As described above, when the game is in the release control state, game balls are concentrated in the right area 7b where winning in the big winning opening is likely to occur, and a large number of winnings occur in a short period of time. Whether or not the ball has been paid out can be accurately recognized outside the pachinko gaming machine 1. In the structure in which the special variable winning ball device 20 is provided in the right region 7b, for example, a configuration in which the center decoration as described above is arranged to be deviated to the right from the center of the game region 7 is also conceivable. In this case, since the area on the right side of the center ornament becomes narrower, the game balls tend to concentrate and flow around the special variable winning ball apparatus 20, so that such an effect becomes more remarkable.

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the test terminal process executed in S30A of the timer interrupt process. In FIG. 31, among the processes for outputting various test signals, the processes related to the output of the test signal for specifying the region where the game ball is to be shot, such as “left-handed” and “right-handed” are shown. ing.

  In FIG. 31, in the test terminal process, the CUP 56 determines whether or not the right generation state is currently present based on checking whether or not the above-described right generation flag is set (S271). When it is determined that the right has been generated, the game is in a state where the player should make a right turn with the aim of entering the game ball into the specific gate. Therefore, processing for outputting a right turn signal is performed (S275), which will be described later. The process proceeds to S276. Here, the right-handed signal is a test signal indicating that the game state is to be right-handed. As a result, when the right is generated, a right-handed signal is output as a test signal.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in S271 that the right is not generated, it is determined whether or not the current state is the open control state of the special winning opening based on checking the value of the special symbol process flag described above (S272). ).

  When it is determined in S272 that the state is the open control state, the game is in a game state in which the player must make a right strike aiming for winning the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 provided in the right area 7b. The process is performed (S275), and the process proceeds to S276 described later. As a result, a right-handed signal is output as a test signal when in the open control state. On the other hand, if it is determined in S272 that it is not in the open control state, the current state is the high base state (in the case of the present embodiment, the short time state is the high base state) on the basis of checking whether or not the time reduction flag is set. It is determined whether or not a state is attached (S273). When it is determined that the base state is high, the game is in a state in which the player should make a right strike aiming to win the ordinary gate 32 and the second start winning opening 14 provided in the right area 7b. Processing for output is performed (S275), and the process proceeds to S276 described later. On the other hand, when it is determined that it is not in the high base state, since it is a gaming state in which the player should make a left strike aiming at the first start winning opening 1 that is easy to win from the right region 7b, The process is performed (S275), and the process proceeds to S276 described later. Here, the left-handed signal is a test signal indicating that the game state is to be left-handed. As a result, when the low base state is not the high base state, the left-handed signal is output as the test signal.

  In S276, processing for outputting test signals other than the right-handed signal and the left-handed signal is performed.

  In the test terminal processing, a right-handed signal is output as a test signal when a right is generated, when it is in an open control state, and when it is in a high base state, and left as a test signal when it is in a low base state. Since the hit signal is output, it is possible to output as the test signal a signal that specifies the area to be shot in accordance with the changing gaming state.

  When outputting a right-handed signal and a left-handed signal as such a test signal, the test apparatus hits the ball of the game machine to be tested based on the right-handed signal and the left-handed signal externally output from the gaming machine. By operating the operation handle with an arm or the like, a hitting ball shooting test corresponding to the gaming state may be performed by automatically operating the hitting operation handle in accordance with the right hit signal and the left hit signal. When a signal corresponding to such a test signal is output from the information output circuit 159 to the above-described hole management computer via the terminal board 160, the same processing as in FIG. 31 is executed in the timer interrupt processing. Good.

  FIG. 32 is a timing chart showing the relationship between the gaming state and the left strike signal and right strike signal. In FIG. 32, (A) a right generation state, (B) a release control state, and (C) a gaming state such as a base state, (D) a left-handed signal, and (E) a right-handed signal. Relationships are shown over time.

  Referring to FIG. 32, in the low base state, a left-handed signal is output in S274 when Y is determined in S273. Thereafter, when a right generation state is entered based on the fact that the jackpot display result is stopped and displayed by the variable display of the special symbol and the effect symbol, a right-handed signal is output in S275 by determining Y in S271. When the right generation state ends and the release control state (big hit game state) starts based on the detection of the entry of the game ball into the specific gate 33 during the right generation state, it is determined as Y in S272. Thus, the output of the right-handed signal is continued in S275. Thereafter, when the release control state (big hit gaming state) ends based on the end of the final round, the high-accuracy base state or the low-accuracy base state is entered. The signal output continues.

  By performing such control, when the test signal connector 310 is mounted on the connector mounting portion 311 as shown in FIG. 3, the test device outside the pachinko gaming machine 1 or an external device such as a hall management computer is provided. In a configuration in which a test signal can be output, a right generation state is established, which is a condition for controlling to the open control state of the big prize opening based on the game ball entering the specific gate 33 Accordingly, a right-handed signal that specifies that a game ball is to be shot into the right region 7b provided with the special variable winning device 20 is created from the timing before the game ball enters the specific gate 33. It is possible to simplify the manner of progressing the game, and it is possible to deal with the progress of the game and facilitate the progress of the game. Furthermore, it is possible to simplify the method of progressing the game during the test, and it is possible to output a signal corresponding to the progress of the game and facilitating the progress of the game as a test signal.

  Further, by performing such control, when the test signal connector 310 is mounted on the connector mounting portion 311 as shown in FIG. 3, an external device such as a test device outside the pachinko gaming machine 1 or a hall management computer is used. In the configuration in which the test signal can be output to the device, the right with the special variable winning device 20 provided when the high base state is controlled after the end of the big hit gaming state (open control state). Since a right-handed signal that specifies that a game ball is to be shot into the area 7b is created, it is possible to respond to the progress of the game whether it is controlled to the high base state and to rapidly advance the game.

  Next, the normal symbol display result determination table used for determining the display result of the normal symbol will be described. FIG. 33 is an explanatory diagram of a normal symbol display result determination table. The normal symbol display result determination table is stored in the ROM 54.

  In the normal symbol display result determination table, the random 4 (1-201) value (determined value) for normal symbol determination, the normal symbol display result, the normal symbol variation time, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 ( The relationship between the opening time and the number of times of opening of the second start winning opening 14) is shown separately for a normal gaming state (a gaming state in which the electric chew support control is not performed) and an electric chew support control state.

  In the normal gaming state, when the determined value is any of 1 to 20, the display result of the normal symbol is taken as a hit, the variation time is set to 10 seconds, and the release time is once in 0.3 seconds. Set to open. On the other hand, when the determined value is any of 21 to 201 in the normal gaming state, the display result of the normal symbol is disregarded, and the variation time is set to 10 seconds.

  In addition, when the determined value is any of 1 to 180 in the electric chew support control state, the display result of the normal symbol is taken as a hit, the variation time is set to 1 second, and the release time is 1.5. Set to open 3 times per second. On the other hand, when the determined value is any of 181 to 201 in the electric chew support control state, the display result of the normal symbol is disregarded, and the variation time is set to 1 second. In the present embodiment, it is determined that the electronic chew support state is set when the time reduction flag is set.

  Thus, regarding the control of the normal symbol, in the electric chew support control state, compared with the normal gaming state, the determined value is set to be higher, the variation time is set to be shorter, Further, the opening time and the number of opening times are set to increase.

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing an example of the normal symbol process executed in S27 of FIG. In this normal symbol process, the CPU 56 first passes the universal symbol gate 32 by checking whether or not the detection signal from the universal symbol gate switch 32a provided in the universal symbol gate 32 is on. It is determined whether or not a game ball has been detected (S501). In S501, when a game ball passes through the general gate 32 and the detection signal from the general gate switch 32a is in an on state for a predetermined period, the game ball has been detected to pass through the general gate (pass ball). It is determined that the process has passed, and the process when passing through the gate is executed (S502).

  As an example of the process at the time of passing through the gate executed in S502, the following process is executed. First, whether or not the number of general-purpose reserved storage, which is the number of general-purpose reserved storage data stored in the general-purpose reserved storage unit provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 55, is a predetermined upper limit (for example, “4”). Determine whether or not. The general figure hold storage unit uses as a general figure hold storage data the random 4 numerical data for determining the display result of the normal symbol extracted when the gate pass of the game ball is detected by the general figure gate switch 32a. One data storage area for holding the data. This ordinary reserved storage unit, like the above-described first reserved storage buffer and second reserved storage buffer, saves the order in which the ordinary reserved storage data is stored in an identifiable state, and changes according to the order. The general-purpose reserved storage data used for display is erased, and the data storage area is shifted one by one for the remaining general-purpose reserved storage data.

  In S <b> 502, when the number of ordinary map storage is less than the upper limit value, the CPU 56 extracts numerical data indicating random 4. Then, the extracted random 4 numerical data is set as general-purpose storage data in the first-order area of the data storage area that is not stored in the general-purpose storage section and is free. On the other hand, if the number of the general-purpose reserved memory reaches the upper limit value in the general-purpose reserved storage unit, the detection of the current game ball is invalidated, and the random number 4 is not newly extracted and stored.

  After the processing at the time of passing through the gate and after it is determined in S501 that the detection signal from the general-purpose gate switch 32a is in the off state, the following S510 to the following are performed according to the value of the normal symbol process flag. Each process of S514 is performed.

  The normal symbol normal process of S510 is executed when the value of the normal symbol process flag is “0”. In this normal symbol normal process, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol display on the normal symbol display 10 is to be started based on the presence / absence of the universal symbol storage data stored in the universal symbol storage unit. . At this time, for example, when there is the general-purpose hold storage data stored in the general-purpose hold storage unit, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to “1”.

  The normal symbol determination process of S511 is executed when the value of the normal symbol process flag is “1”. In this normal symbol determination process, based on whether or not the time reduction flag is set, it recognizes whether or not it is in the electric chew support control state, and the universal symbol hold memory stored in the head order of the universal symbol hold memory unit. Based on the data (numerical data indicating random 4 for determining the display result of the normal symbol), the normal symbol display result determination table shown in FIG. Or “departure” is determined.

  As described above, in the normal symbol display result determination table, when the electronic chew support control state corresponding to the short time state is set, the display result of the normal symbol is displayed more than in the normal gaming state which is the non-electric chew support control state. The decision value to be compared with the random number 4 is assigned so that the ratio of the decision of “winning” is increased. Thus, in the electric chew support control state, in the normal symbol determination process of S511, the display result of the normal symbol is more easily determined as “winning” than in the normal game state, so that the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is formed. 2. The start winning opening 14 is likely to be in an open state, and the game ball is likely to enter the second starting winning opening 14 (start winning prize).

  In the normal symbol determination process, the normal symbol variation time is also determined using the normal symbol display result determination table. As described above, in the normal symbol display result determination table, when the electric chew support control state corresponding to the short time state is set, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is larger than that in the normal game state which is the non-electric chew support control state. It is set to be shorter. Thus, in the electric chew support control state, in the normal symbol determination process of S511, when the time reduction flag is set, the electric chew support control state is recognized, and the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is compared with the normal game state. The variation time is determined so as to be shorter. In the electric chew support control state, the interval at which the normal symbol variation display result is derived and displayed is shortened, so that the interval at which the “win” variation display result is derived and displayed is also shortened, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is formed. The second start winning opening 14 is likely to be in an open state, and the game ball is likely to enter the second start winning opening 14 (start winning prize).

  Furthermore, in the normal symbol determination process, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 (second start winning port 14) are also determined using the normal symbol display result determination table. As described above, the normal symbol display result determination table recognizes that the electric chew support control state is in effect when the hourly flag is set, and if it is in the electric chew support control state, The opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 (second start winning port 14) is set longer and the number of times of opening is larger than in the case of a certain normal gaming state. Therefore, in the electric chew support control state, the open time of the variable winning ball device 15 (second start winning port 14) becomes longer than in the normal game state in the non-electric chew support control state, and Control is performed so that the number of times of opening is increased. As a result, in the electric chew support control state, the opening time becomes longer and the number of times of opening increases, so that the time and number of times that the variable winning ball device 15 (second start winning opening 14) is in the opened state increase. This makes it easier for the game ball to enter the second start winning opening 14 (start winning prize).

  In the normal symbol determination process, after such various determinations are made, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to “2”.

  The normal symbol variation process of S512 is executed when the value of the normal symbol process flag is “2”. In this normal symbol variation process, a setting for varying the normal symbol is performed in the normal symbol variation display by the normal symbol display 10. The normal symbol that is variably displayed based on these settings is displayed with the normal symbol display result that is the normal symbol display result when the normal symbol stop process of S513 is executed and the variation display is stopped. In the normal symbol variation process, an elapsed time after the normal symbol starts to be varied is measured. At this time, it is determined whether or not the measured elapsed time has reached the variation time determined in the normal symbol determination process. When the determined fluctuation time is reached, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to “3”.

  The normal symbol stop process of S513 is executed when the value of the normal symbol process flag is “3”. In this normal symbol stop process, the normal symbol display unit 10 is set to stop the fluctuation display of the normal symbol and to display the display result. The setting for deriving and displaying the display result of the normal symbol is set to “3” for the value of the normal symbol process flag when the measured elapsed time reaches the determined variation time in the normal symbol variation process of S512. It may be performed before the update. Further, in the normal symbol stop process, when the display result of the normal symbol determined in the normal symbol determination process is “winning”, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is set with the opening time and the number of releases determined in the normal symbol determination process. After the operation pattern for driving the solenoid 16 to open and close is set, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to “4”. On the other hand, when the display result of the normal symbol determined in the normal symbol determination process is “out of”, the normal symbol process flag is cleared and the value is updated to “0”.

  The normal electric accessory actuating process of S514 is executed when the value of the normal symbol process flag is “4”. In this ordinary electric accessory actuating process, in response to the display result in the normal symbol variation display being “winning”, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is operated to open the second position by operating the movable piece in the open state. Control is performed to change the winning opening 14 from the closed state to the open state. For example, in the ordinary electric accessory actuating process, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is generated by generating a drive control signal for driving the solenoid 16 according to the setting of the actuating pattern set in the ordinary symbol stopping process of S513. Then, control is performed to make the open state based on the release time and the number of releases determined in the normal symbol determination process. Thereby, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened and closed with an operation pattern according to the gaming state and the display result as shown in FIG. When the drive of the solenoid 16 according to the setting of the operation pattern is completed, the normal symbol process flag is cleared and the value is updated to “0”.

  Next, control executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 will be described. FIG. 35 is an explanatory diagram showing random numbers used by the effect control microcomputer 100.

  In FIG. 35, as an example, SR1-1 for determining the left stop symbol of the effect symbol, SR1-2 for determining the middle stop symbol of the effect symbol, SR1-3 for determining the right stop symbol of the effect symbol, and the effect SR2 for decision is shown.

  SR1-1, SR1-2, and SR1-3 are used for randomly determining the left, middle, and right stop symbols (final stop symbols excluding temporary stop symbols) of the effect symbols. SR2 is used to determine the effect period when the reserved memory effect is performed. SR3 is used to determine the effect mode when the reserved memory effect is performed.

  Each of such random numbers SR1-1 to SR3 is generated by counting of a random counter that updates the count value by software, and is cyclically updated within the range associated in FIG. By being extracted at a given timing, it is used as a random number.

  FIG. 36 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the stop symbol of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) in the effect display device 9.

  In the example shown in FIG. 36, when the received display result designation command indicates a probable big hit (when the received display result designation command is a display result 2 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 stops the design. As a result, a combination of performance symbols (probability big hit symbol combination) in which the left, middle, and right three symbols are aligned to one odd symbol is determined.

  When the received display result designation command indicates a normal jackpot (when the received display result designation command is a display result 3 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 uses left, middle, and right as stop symbols. A combination of effect symbols (ordinary jackpot symbol combination) in which three symbols are aligned to one even symbol is determined. In the case of deviation (when the received display result designation command is a display result 1 designation command), a combination of effect symbols other than those described above (a combination of deviation symbols such as left / right inconsistency, right / left inconsistency, etc.) is determined. However, when the reach effect is accompanied, the combination of the effect symbols in which the left and right symbols are aligned is determined.

  Next, the operation of the production control microcomputer 100 will be described. FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing the effect control main process executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80.

  The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the effect control main process when the power is turned on. In the effect control main process, first, an initialization process is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (S701). ). Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring a timer interrupt flag (S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. In the effect control main process, if the timer interrupt flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (S703) and executes the following effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command, and sets data such as a flag that can specify what the received effect control command indicates. Processing is performed (command analysis processing: S704). Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (S705). In the effect control process, in order to perform various effects such as a change display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 in accordance with the contents of the effect control command analyzed in S704, the current control among the processes corresponding to the control state is performed. A process corresponding to the state (effect control process flag) is selected and the effect control is executed.

  Next, a random number update process for updating the count value of the counter for generating various random numbers including SR1-1, SR1-2, SR1-3, SR2 as shown in FIG. 30 is executed (S706). Further, a hold storage display control process for controlling the display state of the combined hold storage display unit 18c is executed (S707). Thereafter, the process proceeds to S702.

  By executing such effect control main processing, the effect control microcomputer 100 transmits the effect display device 9, various lamps, and the like according to the effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 and received. By controlling the production devices such as the speakers 27L and 27R, various production controls according to the gaming state are performed.

  FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (S705) in the effect control main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs one of S800 to S807 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed. In the effect control process, the display state of the effect display device 9 is controlled, and the effect symbol variation display is realized, but the control related to the effect symbol variation display synchronized with the variation of the first special symbol is also the second. Control related to the change display of the effect symbol synchronized with the change of the special symbol is also executed in one effect control process.

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

  Effect symbol variation start processing (S801): Control is performed so that variation display of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) is started. Further, the stop symbol (display result) of the effect symbol is determined based on SR1-1 to SR1-3 and the like. At the start of the variation display, the timing of the variation display time timer that measures the variation time of the variation display executed in response to the received variation pattern command is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (S802).

  Production symbol variation processing (S802): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern and monitors whether or not the variation time counted by the variation display time timer has ended. Then, based on the fact that the fluctuation time has ended or that an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) for instructing all symbols to stop is received, the value of the effect control process flag is effected to end the variable display. It is updated to a value corresponding to the symbol variation stop process (S803).

  Effect symbol variation stop processing (S803): Control is performed to stop the variation display of the effect symbol (decoration symbol) and derive and display the display result (stop symbol) of the variation display. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (S804) or the variation pattern command reception waiting process (S800).

  Big hit display process (S804): After the end of the variation time, display control such as a fanfare effect as an effect such as a big hit display for notifying the effect display device 9 of the occurrence of the big win is performed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (S805).

  In-round processing (S805): Display control during round is performed. If the round end condition is satisfied, if the final round has not ended, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the post-round processing (S806). If the final round has ended, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit end process (S807).

  Post-round processing (S806): Display control between rounds is performed. If the round start condition is satisfied, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the in-round processing (S805).

  Big hit end effect processing (S807): In the effect display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit game state has ended. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (S800).

  The effect control CPU 101 determines the stop symbol of the effect symbol as follows, for example. For example, in the effect symbol variation start process, random numbers SR1-1 to SR1-3 for determining the stop symbol of the effect symbol are extracted, and a stop symbol determination table in which data indicating the effect symbol is associated with a numerical value. Are used to determine the stop symbol of the effect symbol. That is, the stop symbol is determined by selecting data indicating the combination of effect symbols corresponding to the numerical value matching the extracted random number. Then, the effect control CPU 101 stops the effect symbol at the stop symbol determined in this way when stopping the variation display of the effect symbol. With regard to the production symbol, a stop symbol reminiscent of a big hit is called a big hit symbol. And a stop symbol that reminds of a loss is called a loss symbol.

  Specifically, the stop symbol of the effect symbol is determined as follows, for example. When determining a combination of non-reach off symbols, numerical data (random numbers) is extracted from each of SR1-1 to SR1-3 at a predetermined timing and stored in the ROM of the production control microcomputer 100. Using the symbol determination data table, the symbol corresponding to the extracted random number is determined as a combination of stop symbols that result in a variation display result of the left, middle, and right effect symbols. In this way, when determining a combination of non-reach symbols, if the stop symbol corresponding to the extracted random number coincides with a combination of accidental jackpot symbols, it is corrected so as to be a combination of outlier symbols (for example, Each stop symbol is determined by correcting the right symbol by one symbol). Further, when the stop symbol corresponding to the extracted random number becomes a reach symbol by chance, each stop symbol is corrected by making a combination of non-reach off symbols (for example, correction for shifting the middle symbol by one symbol). Is determined.

  Further, when determining a combination of symbols that are out of reach, numerical data (random numbers) is extracted from each of SR1-1 to SR1-3 at a predetermined timing, and SR1-1 is used using a data table for determining outliers. The symbol corresponding to the random number extracted from is determined as the stop symbol of each effect symbol forming the reach state, and the symbol corresponding to the random number that matches the counter value extracted from SR1-2 is the stop symbol of the final stop symbol As determined.

  In determining the jackpot symbol combination, the jackpot symbol combination is determined according to the jackpot type.

  When it is decided to make a probable big hit, using the probable big hit symbol determination table, for example, a combination of any odd symbols such as “7, 7, 7” on the left, middle, and right is arranged. Select and decide. In the probability variation big hit symbol determination table, each numerical data of SR1-1 is associated with each of a plurality of predetermined odd numbers of symbols. When determining the combination of probability variation jackpot symbols, the numerical data (random number) is extracted from SR1-1 at a predetermined timing, and the symbol corresponding to the extracted random number is combined with the probability variation jackpot symbol combination using the probability variation jackpot design table. Is determined as a combination of stop symbols of the left, middle and right effect symbols. The combination of probability variation big hit symbols determined in this way is used as the final stop symbol that is the variation display result.

  In addition, when it is decided to make a big jackpot, any even number of symbols such as “2, 2, 2” on the left, middle, and right are prepared using the normal jackpot design table. Select and determine combinations. In the normal jackpot symbol determination table, each numerical data of SR1-1 is associated with each of a plurality of predetermined even numbers of symbols. When determining the combination of the normal jackpot symbol, the numerical data (random number) is extracted from SR1-1 at a predetermined timing, and the symbol corresponding to the extracted random number is extracted from the normal jackpot symbol determination table. Is determined as a combination of stop symbols of the left, middle and right effect symbols. The combination of the normal jackpot symbols determined in this way is used as the final stop symbol that is the variable display result.

  Next, as a modified example of the first embodiment, latent effect control that is executed in common after the end of the big hit game state with a probable big hit and after the end of the normal big hit game state will be described. The probable big hit and the normal big hit are different in the control state of whether or not the high probability state is reached after the big hit gaming state ends, but both are controlled to the short-time state and the electric chew support control is performed. If the normal jackpot display result is the same as the display result of the big hit display result, and if there is no notification of whether or not it is a high probability state after the end of the jackpot gaming state, the fluctuation of the predetermined number (100 times) after the normal jackpot Until the time-saving state (including the electric chew support state) is terminated by executing the display, it is difficult for the player to distinguish whether or not the gaming state is a high-probability state based only on the appearance of the operating state.

  Thus, such a control state is called a latent production state because it cannot be recognized whether or not it is a probability variation state and gives an impression that the probability variation state is latent. In the pachinko gaming machine 1 of the first embodiment, when performing the latent effect control, the probability variation big hit symbol shown in FIG. 36 is not different from the normal big hit symbol, and the same big hit symbol combination is used. After the jackpot gaming state is over, for example, a common effect as shown in FIG. 39 may be executed to perform a latent effect control that makes it impossible to specify whether the probability change state or the non-probability change state.

  FIG. 39 is a display screen diagram of the effect display device 9 showing an example of a latent effect that is commonly executed after the end of the big hit game state with a probable big hit and after the end of the normal big hit big hit game state. When the latent effect control is performed, the time-short state (including the electric Chu support state) generated by the probability variation big hit is controlled to end at the same predetermined number of times (100 times) as the normal big hit, and the probability variation big hit and the normal big hit are controlled. The duration of the short-time state (including the electric chew support state) may be controlled to be the same period. FIG. 39 shows a common background image that is displayed as a common effect after the end of the jackpot gaming state with the probability variation jackpot and after the end of the normal jackpot jackpot gaming state. For example, such a common background image is displayed until a predetermined number of times (100 times) of variation display is executed, and then the background image for the low-accuracy low-base state according to the jackpot probability and the base state, Alternatively, the background image is switched to the background image for the low probability low base state. When the latent effect control is not performed, for example, a background image predetermined for the low probability state is displayed in the low probability state, and a background image predetermined for the high probability state is displayed in the high probability state. The Thereby, in a state other than the latent effect control state, a background image corresponding to the jackpot probability is displayed.

  Such a common background image is displayed by executing a process for displaying the common background image at the end of the execution of the jackpot end effect process in the effect control process of FIG. In the symbol fluctuation stop processing, the number of fluctuations after the end of the big hit state is counted using a predetermined fluctuation display number counter, and when the counted number reaches a predetermined number (100 times), or the count of the fluctuation display number counter The display is terminated when a big hit occurs before the number of times reaches a predetermined number (100 times). By executing such a common effect in the probable big hit and the normal big hit, it is possible to determine whether or not the actual game state is a probable state, so that the interest of the game can be further improved. Note that, as such a background image, a plurality of types of background images selected at different selection ratios depending on whether or not the state is a probable variation state are used from a plurality of types as in a fourth embodiment described later. You may do it. Further, as such a common effect, notifications other than displaying the background image, such as displaying the same character image, may be selected.

  When such latent effect control is performed, the following effects can be obtained when the gaming state is restored when the power is turned on based on the high probability notification described above when the power is turned on. When the gaming state is restored when the power is turned on, it is determined whether or not the operating state is a high-probability state only by the appearance of the operating state even if the gaming state is restored when it is in the latent effect control state before the power supply is stopped. Difficult to distinguish. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, when the probability change state has occurred before the power supply is stopped, when the power of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is turned on, a high probability notification by the probability change notification LED 53 that is not performed in a state other than when the power is turned on is performed. By being performed, it is possible to know based on the notification that it was in the state of probability change before the power supply was stopped. Therefore, in order to provide an unauthorized service, the game state was restored when the power was turned on the next day after the game hall was closed and the hidden effect control was performed with a high probability. However, since it is possible to recognize that such an unauthorized service has been performed by a high-probability notification when the power is turned on, it is possible to prevent such an unauthorized service from being provided. In addition, when the power is turned off in the latent effect control state with a high probability state without fraudulent intention, when trying to initialize without restoring the gaming state at the time of power-on, but it has not been initialized In addition, it is possible to prevent a situation in which business starts from an unexpected control state due to high-probability notification at power-on.

  In this embodiment, a test signal indicating the control state of the pachinko gaming machine 1 is output to the test device via the test signal connector 310, and a signal corresponding to the test signal is output from the information output circuit 159 to the terminal board. Although the output control related to the test signal, such as an example of outputting to the above-described hall management computer via 160, has been described, whether such a test signal is in a high probability state due to execution of the latent effect as described above, for example. Regardless of production restrictions such as not being shown, a signal related to the actual control state (internal control state) is output.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, an example will be described in which a process for shifting to the power saving control state is performed when a game ball does not enter the specific gate 33 for a predetermined period in the right generation state.

  FIG. 40 is an enlarged view of the periphery of the effect display device 9 showing an example of the power saving control state according to the second embodiment. Referring to FIG. 40, when the power saving control state is set to the power saving mode and the state not in the power saving control state is set to the normal mode, when the game ball does not enter the specific gate 33 for a predetermined period in the right generation state, The normal mode as shown in FIG. 40 (A) is controlled to the power saving mode as shown in FIG. 40 (B).

  In the power saving mode shown in FIG. 40B, processing for reducing the image brightness of the image display device such as the effect display device 9 is performed as compared with the normal mode shown in FIG. For example, in the case of a liquid crystal display type display device such as the effect display device 9, the brightness of the liquid crystal backlight is reduced or the process of turning off the liquid crystal backlight is performed. In the power saving mode shown in FIG. 40 (B), the brightness of the light emitting device such as the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b is compared with the normal mode shown in FIG. 40 (A). A process for decreasing the value is performed. For example, in the case of a 7-segment LED such as the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b, a process for stopping the light emission of the LED is performed.

  Such transition control to the power saving mode may be performed as follows. For example, when the right generation flag is set in S134 of FIG. 16, processing for setting a count value corresponding to a predetermined period (for example, 5 minutes) to the non-detection period measurement counter is performed. Then, every time it is determined in S136 that the specific gate switch 33a is not in the detection state, the count value of the non-detection period measurement counter is decremented by -1, and the count value of the non-detection period measurement counter is “0” The process of determining whether or not “ Then, when the count value of the non-detection period measurement counter becomes “0”, processing for executing the power saving mode as described above is performed.

  In the process of executing the power saving mode, the control as described above in which the power consumption of various light emitting means such as the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b controlled by the game control microcomputer 560 is limited. Is directly executed by the game control microcomputer 560. Then, a command for instructing the execution of the above-described control with the power consumption of the light emitting means such as the decoration LED 25 and the arithmetic display device 9 controlled by the arithmetic control microcomputer 100 being used is a game control microcomputer. 560 transmits to the microcomputer 100 for calculation control. In response to the reception of such a command, the calculation control microcomputer 100 executes the above-described control in which the power consumption of the calculation display device 9 and the light emitting means such as the decoration LED 25 is limited.

  In addition, the return to the normal mode (cancellation of the power saving mode) after shifting to the power saving mode is executed when the entry of the game ball to the specific gate 33 is detected by the specific gate switch 33a in the power saving mode. do it. The signal from the touch sensor circuit of the ball hitting device is monitored on the control board, and when the touch sensor detects that the player touches the ball hitting operation handle 5 in the power saving mode, the normal mode is set. You may make it perform control to return to.

  Control for limiting power consumption in the power saving mode includes turning off all light emitters such as lamps, turning off some light emitters among all light emitters such as lamps, turning off display devices, and displaying display devices. Brightness adjustment (gradual decrease in brightness), brightness adjustment of display device (gradual decrease in luminance), display of characters only on liquid crystal display device, backlight off of liquid crystal display device, and backlight of liquid crystal display device Any control mode that can reduce wasteful power consumption, such as brightness adjustment (gradual decrease in brightness), may be performed by any one or a combination of any of these. In addition, when the pachinko gaming machine 1 includes driving means such as a motor and a solenoid, useless power consumption is reduced by stopping the operation of the corresponding driving means, reducing the operation amount, or reducing the operation frequency. You may make it do.

  According to the second embodiment as described above, in the right generation state, when the period during which the game ball does not enter the specific gate 33 becomes equal to or longer than the predetermined period, the control is performed to shift to the power saving mode in which the power consumption is limited. Therefore, wasteful power consumption can be reduced. In particular, when the jackpot display result is displayed and the right is generated, the right cannot be extinguished unless the game ball is fired. Therefore, it is considered that the player may leave the seat for a break or the like. . When the jackpot display result is displayed and the right is generated, a flashy effect using the display device and the light emitting means is performed. However, if the player does not execute the game due to leaving the seat, the consumption By performing the control to shift to the power saving mode in which the power is limited, the power consumption can be more effectively reduced. In the state where the demonstration of the customer waiting demonstration is being performed, control for shifting to the power saving mode may be performed when the execution period of the demonstration of the customer waiting demonstration exceeds a predetermined period. The transition from the normal mode to the power saving mode and the transition from the power saving mode to the normal mode can be freely performed by the player or the game hall by operating predetermined operation means such as a switch and a keyboard. You may be able to do it.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment, an example of a placement area notification control for performing a placement area notification for specifying a region to be placed when a right is generated based on a display result of a variable display will be described. Furthermore, in the third embodiment, when a new variable display can be executed in the right generation state and a variable display determined to be a big hit is performed, the big hit display result is not displayed and the right generation state is entered. A description will also be given of an example in which control for not executing the driving area notification is performed.

  FIG. 41 is a display screen diagram of the effect display device 9 showing an example of driving area notification control according to the third embodiment.

  In the case of the third embodiment, as shown in FIG. 41A, after the jackpot display result (for example, “777”) is displayed as the variable display result, the right is generated and “right-handed !!” The driving area notification control for performing driving area notification for specifying the area to be driven is executed. By executing such driving area notification control, it is possible for the player to suppress the consumption of useless game balls and to easily advance the game advantageously. it can. Such a driving-in area notification is a notification that is performed when the right generation state is reached, and is also a notification that suggests the occurrence of a big hit gaming state.

  Specifically, the driving area notification control is realized as follows. In step S803 of the effect control process shown in FIG. 38, after the jackpot display result is stopped and displayed on the effect display device 9, it is referred to as “right-handed !!” until the start specification command for the probable big hit or the normal big hit is received. Control for displaying an image for notifying the driving area is performed.

  Further, when performing such placement area notification, even if it is determined to be a big hit in S60 and S71, the right generation state without displaying the big hit display result as the variable display result (displaying the dismissal display result) In this right generation state, a new variable display may be executed. In the first embodiment described above, as shown in FIG. 16, the special symbol stop process is repeatedly executed in the special symbol process until the specific gate switch 33a is turned on in S135. Fluctuation display is not executed. In the third embodiment, when it is determined in S135 that the specific gate switch 33a is not turned on, the current control data is stored in a predetermined storage area, and a new variable display can be started. Therefore, control is performed to shift the special symbol process to the special symbol normal process (S300). If there is next reserved storage data, the above-described process for executing the variable display based on the reserved storage data is executed. This makes it possible to execute a new variable display in the right generation state. However, even when a new variation display is executed in this way, it is monitored whether or not the specific gate switch 33a is turned on in each process in the special symbol process, and when the specific gate switch 33a is turned on, Control to shift to the big hit gaming state is performed.

  When the variable display can be executed in such a situation, it is determined that the big hit is determined in the big hit judgment on the game control microcomputer 560 side in the effect control microcomputer 100, and the big hit display result is specified. Even when the display result 2 designation command or the display result 3 designation command to be received is received, in the processing of S801 to S803 in FIG. 38, the display result of deviation is determined, and the display result of deviation is displayed as the display result of variable display. Control to derive and display is performed. In this way, even when it is determined that the big hit determination is made in the big hit determination when the new variable display can be executed in the right generation state, as shown in FIG. In the display device 9, the outlier display result is derived and displayed, thereby restricting the display and display of the jackpot display result. When restricting the derivation display of such a jackpot display result, not only the effect symbols but also the first special symbol and the second special symbol are determined to be jackpots in the jackpot determination. , Control may be performed so that the display result of the outlier is derived and displayed.

  When the new variation display can be executed in the right generation state, the presentation control process process shown in FIG. 38 is performed even when the new variation display is determined to be a big hit in the big hit determination. In step S803, a process for limiting the execution of the driving area notification is performed, such as preventing the driving area notification from being executed. As a process for limiting the execution of the driving area notification, a command for instructing to limit the execution of the driving area notification in the special symbol stop process of FIG. By transmitting, the effect control microcomputer 100 that has received such a command performs control so as not to execute the driving area notification in step S803 of the effect control process. In this way, even when it is determined that the big hit determination is made in the big hit determination when the new variable display can be executed in the right generation state, as shown in FIG. In the display device 9, after the display result is derived and displayed, the driving area notification is not executed.

  In the third embodiment in which such control is performed, a new variable display on the effect display device 9 or the like is executed even during a specific period until the game ball enters the specific gate 33 after entering the right generation state. It is possible, and even if it is determined beforehand as a big hit for a new variable display, the big hit display result is not displayed as a display result, and the notification that suggests the occurrence of the big hit like the driving area notification is limited. As a result, there can be a state where a big hit that the player cannot recognize the occurrence of can be accumulated, so that the interest of the game can be improved.

  In addition, even if a new big hit is pre-determined when it is possible to execute a new variable display during a specific period until the game ball enters the specific gate 33 after entering the right generation state, If the display result is not displayed and no notification indicating the occurrence of a jackpot is given, the jackpot that has been stored without notification is then determined by a predetermined lottery. An effect such as releasing (notifying that it exists) may be executed in the effect display device 9. If such an effect is given, the interest of the game can be further improved.

  In addition, when executing a new variable display during a specific period until the game ball enters the specific gate 33 after entering the right generation state, in addition to restricting the execution of the driving area notification as described above, The following configuration may be adopted. For example, with regard to the specific gate 33, a configuration is adopted in which a member that continues to operate at a constant rate at all times is provided at the entrance of the specific gate 33 so that the game ball is allowed to enter only once every 30 minutes for a predetermined period. Alternatively, a configuration is provided in which a movable piece that restricts the entry of the game ball is provided at the entrance of the specific gate 33 and the movable piece is controlled to be allowed to enter the game ball only when a predetermined lottery effect is won. By adopting it, the player may not be able to easily pass the game ball through the specific gate 33 in order to confirm the game state. In this way, it is possible to prevent the player from easily confirming whether or not there is a jackpot accumulated without being notified by the change display of the right occurrence state.

  In addition, when winning the lottery as described above, as an example of releasing the jackpot stored without notifying, it is possible to perform a control to always release all of the stored jackpot when winning the lottery Well, you may make it perform control which discharges a part of the stored jackpot. Further, by executing these first stage lottery effects, after performing the lottery for releasing the number of jackpots to be released, the second stage lottery effect for determining whether or not to release the number of jackpots determined by the lottery. A two-stage lottery effect may be performed.

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. In the fourth embodiment, an example will be described in which a surprise big hit and a small hit are provided, and an effect selected from a plurality of types of common effects is executed in the big hit gaming state.

  The sudden hit big hit is a big hit in which, after the end of the two round big hit gaming state, control is performed to shift to the probability changing state, the non-time-saving state, and the non-electric Chu support control state (highly accurate low base state). In the sudden big hit, the probability variation state continues for a period until the condition that the next big hit occurs is satisfied.

  The surprise jackpot has fewer rounds than the above-mentioned probability variation jackpot and normal jackpot (2 times), and the opening time of the big winning opening is extremely short (opening for 0.5 seconds). When notifying that the probability change state has been reached after the end of the big hit game state, it is possible to make it appear to the player as if it has suddenly changed to the probability change state, which is called “sudden probability change big hit”. “Suddenly probable big hit” may be referred to by the abbreviation “surprise big hit” or “surprise”. In this embodiment, the two-round probability variation big hit is referred to as “surprise big hit”. Such a big hit is a hit where a winning ball is not substantially obtained since the half-second opening is performed only twice in the big hit gaming state. In addition, as for the big hit jackpot, the same number of rounds as the probability big hit and the normal big hit (15 times), the opening time of the big prize opening time is very short (open for 0.5 seconds), it is large The winning opening may be opened.

  The small hit is a hit (advantageous state) in which the special variable winning ball device 20 is opened with the same number of times and opening time as the sudden big hit in the gaming state (small hit gaming state) when the small hit is reached. When a small hit is made, after the small hit gaming state, both the big hit probability and the base state are not changed from those before the start of the small hit gaming state. In this way, the small hit is a hit in which a gaming state such as a big hit probability and a base state is maintained after the small hit gaming state ends and before the start of the small hit gaming state. In this embodiment, the small hit is an example in which the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is opened in the small hit gaming state with the same number of times of opening and the same opening time as the sudden big hit. Not limited to small hits, the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is not completely different from the open mode at the time of the big hit, but seems to be difficult to distinguish from the open mode at the big hit. It may be. In other words, as a small hit, the special variable winning ball device 20 may be opened when the special variable winning ball device 20 is opened with substantially the same number of times of opening and substantially the same opening time as the big hit.

  When it is determined in advance that it is a big hit or a small hit, a common display result called a chance eye is derived and displayed as a variable display result on the effect display device 9. The chance eyes are different from the display results of the double eyes used as the display results of 15 rounds of big hits such as probability variation big hits and normal big hits, such as “123”, “456”, or “789”, for example. This is a predetermined display result.

  In this way, when it is determined in advance that it is a big hit or a small hit, when a chance item is derived and displayed as a variable display result, a right is generated, and in this right generation state, a game ball is placed on the specific gate 33. After it is detected that the vehicle has entered, the state shifts to the opening control state of the big prize opening as described above.

  If it is determined that the big hit gaming state of the low probability low base state will be the high probability low base state after the big hit gaming state of the high probability low hit state, the base state will be small in the low probability low base state. The low base state is the same as the state after the end of the small hit gaming state when it is determined to win. This makes it difficult for the player to identify whether the winning position is a big hit or a small hit when the winning hole is opened twice in the low probability low base state. The fun of the game is improved.

  As described above, since the variation display result is common between the surprise big hit and the small hit, and the number of times and the opening time of the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 are the same, it is determined whether the hit is the big hit or the small hit. Hard to recognize. Furthermore, since the big hit gaming state is not controlled to the short-time state after the end of the big hit gaming state, and the electric chew support control is not performed, compared with the small hit where the big hit probability and the base do not change after the end of the small hit gaming state, In the low-probability-low base state, it is difficult for the player to distinguish between the operation status after the end of the big hit gaming state for the sudden hit big hit and after the end of the small hit gaming state.

  As a result, the player recognizes whether the hit is a big hit or a small hit when a common performance is performed that does not notify that the right has changed in the right occurrence status for each of the big hit and the small hit. Hard to do. Therefore, in order to increase the player's expectation, the fourth embodiment describes an example in which a common effect is performed in which the probability change state is not notified in the right occurrence state in each of the sudden big hit and the small hit. To do.

  In addition, after a transition from the right occurrence state to the open control state of the big prize opening, when a common effect is performed without notifying that it is in a probable change state during the period until the open control state ends, It is difficult for a player to recognize whether it is a big hit or a big hit. Therefore, in order to increase the player's expectation, in the fourth embodiment, after the transition from the right generation state in each of the sudden big hit and the small hit to the open control state of the big winning opening, the release control state is ended. An example in which a common effect that does not notify that the state is in a certain variation state during the period will be described.

  In addition, when a common performance that does not notify that the probability change state is performed after the end of the large winning opening opening control state in each of the big hit and small hits, the game determines whether or not it is in the probability change state. Hard to recognize. Therefore, in order to increase the player's expectation, in the fourth embodiment, after the transition from the right generation state in each of the sudden big hit and the small hit to the open control state of the big winning opening, the release control state is ended. An example in which a common effect that does not notify that the state is in a certain variation state during the period will be described.

  The common effect as described above, which is executed for each of the big hit and the small hit, is called a latent effect because the probability variation state is latent, and the control for setting such a latent effect state is a latent effect. Called control.

  The common effect as described above may be executed in all states including the right generation state, the opening control state of the big prize opening, and after the opening control state of the big winning opening. It may be executed in a state, or may be executed in any two states. In addition, such common effects are executed in all game states including the right generation state, the open control state of the special winning opening, and other game states after the open control state of the special winning opening. Also good.

  In addition, the common effects as described above are in the right generation state, in the opening control state of the big winning opening, and after the opening control state of the big winning opening (after the end of the big hit or small hit), respectively. You may make it perform with a different production | presentation aspect, and you may make it perform with the same production | presentation aspect. In addition, in the right generation state, during the opening control state of the big winning opening, and after the opening control state of the big winning opening, it is possible to execute an effect that has a relevance that makes the story progress. Good.

  When a common effect is executed during the right generation state, when a game ball enters the specific gate 33 from this common effect, it is determined which of the probability variation state and the non-probability variation state is reached. Since the unspecified latent effect control is performed, the player's expectation during the right generation state can be increased, so that the interest of the game can be further improved.

  When a common effect is executed during the open control state of the big prize opening, such a common effect causes a sudden big hit where the opening operation of the big prize opening becomes a certain change state and a small hit where the non-probability change state occurs. Since the hidden effect control that cannot be specified is performed in either of these cases, the player's expectation during the open control state of the special winning opening is drowned, so that the interest of the game can be further improved.

  When a common effect is executed after the end of the big hit or the small hit, the latent effect control is performed by such a common effect, in which it is impossible to specify whether the state is a probability variation state or a non-probability variation state. Therefore, since it can be determined whether or not the game state in which the variable display is to be performed from now on is a probable change state, the interest of the game can be further improved.

  In the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the fourth embodiment, a process for executing a small hit in the special symbol process in FIG. 12 is provided. In addition, in the special symbol normal process of FIG. 15, the big hit type selected by S72 and S73 is included, and the big hit type can be selected. In addition, when it is determined in S60 that the big hit determination value is not reached, a process for determining whether or not to make a small hit is performed. Is stored.

  Then, if it is determined that it is a winning big hit, in S141 of the special symbol stop process of FIG. 16, by setting the releasing mode for the big hit, a special variable winning ball in the opening manner as described above. Control to open the device 20 is performed. As a result, in the case of a winning big hit, as in the other big hit types, the opening control of the big winning opening is started based on the game ball entering the specific gate in the right generation state.

  If it is determined that a small hit is made, it is determined whether or not data indicating that the small hit is determined is stored before the process of S149 of the special symbol stop process of FIG. If it is determined and a small hit is determined, the process waits until the specific gate switch 33a detects a game ball without proceeding to S149. When the specific gate switch 33a detects a game ball, Shift to process processing to perform winning. As a result, in the case of a small hit, as in the case of the other big hits, the control for opening the special winning opening is started based on the game ball entering the specific gate in the right generation state.

  In the case where a common effect is executed during the right generation state, or in the case where the common effect is executed during the open control state of the special winning opening, the game control microcomputer 560 in the right generation state due to the sudden big hit after the variable display ends. 38 when the big hit start designation command outputted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received in the right occurrence state due to the small hit after the end of the variable display, or the big hit display processing shown in FIG. What is necessary is just to perform the process which produces a common effect by (S804).

  In the case of executing a common effect during the open control state of the big prize opening, the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the above-described probability variation big hit start designation command or small hit start designation command, and thereafter, the game control When a special winning opening opening designation command output from the microcomputer 560 is received, a process of performing a common effect may be executed by the mid-round process (S805) of FIG.

  When a common effect is executed after the end of the big hit or small hit, the effect control microcomputer 100 outputs a sudden big hit end designation command output from the game control microcomputer 560 at the end of the big hit or the small hit When the small hit end designation command output from the game control microcomputer 560 at the end of the hit is received, a process of performing a common effect may be executed by the variation pattern command reception waiting process (S800) of FIG.

  As described above, in the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to the fourth embodiment, in the production control microcomputer 100, it is informed that each of the sudden hits and the small hits, which are difficult to identify in the game operation, is in a probable variation state. The latent effect control for performing the common effect is not performed. By performing such latent effect control, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation as to whether or not the player is in a probable change state, and to improve the interest of the game.

  In the first embodiment described above, the time from the detection of the entry of a game ball to the specific gate 33 to the start of opening of the big winning opening is the same for the probability big hit and the normal big hit. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the time may be slightly different between the sudden big hit and the small hit. In this way, the time until the big winning opening starts to be opened slightly differs between the sudden big hit and the small hit, so that the interest of the game can be improved based on the difference in the time.

  FIG. 42 is a display screen diagram illustrating an example of a display image of the effect display device 9 when the latent effect according to the fourth embodiment is performed. In FIG. 42, the display of the effect symbol is omitted.

  In this embodiment, the effect mode of the latent effect includes a plurality of types of effect modes of a low rate latent effect and a high rate latent effect. The low-rate latency effect is an effect mode in which the probability of a probable change state is low among the latent effects. The high-rate latent production is a production mode in which the probability of a certain change state is high in the latent production. In the case where the latent effect is performed, when the actual gaming state is a probable change state, the latent effect is selected at a ratio of high rate latent effect> low rate latent effect. On the other hand, in the case where the latent effect is performed, if the actual gaming state is an uncertain change state, the latent effect is selected at a ratio of low rate latent effect> high rate latent effect. As a result, the probability of the probability variation state is higher when the high-rate latent effect is executed than when the low-rate latent effect is executed.

  As shown in FIG. 42A, in the effect mode of the high-rate latency effect, a background image of the high-rate latency effect (first latency effect) that is a background image indicating a mountain is displayed as the background image of the effect symbol. The In the low-rate latency production mode, as shown in FIG. 42B, a background image of the low-rate latency production (second latent production), which is a background image showing a city, is displayed as the background image of the production pattern. The

  Thus, the player can recognize the type of the effect mode based on the background image because the background image is different for each effect mode of the latent effect. Therefore, when the latent effect is performed, the player can recognize whether the probability of the probability change state is high or low by identifying the effect mode based on the display. As a result, as described above. The interest of the game can be improved according to the time when the latent effect is executed. When such a latent effect is executed, an effect indicating the expected degree of the probability variation state (for example, an effect of displaying different types of characters according to the expected degree) is executed at a predetermined timing. May be. As a timing for executing such an effect, it is at any one timing from when the change display of the effect symbol is stopped to when the specific gate passes, during the opening of the grand prize opening, and after the opening of the grand prize opening. There may be a plurality of timings by any combination of these.

  In the embodiment described above, the step-up notice may be executed in a plurality of stages at each of the first timing and the subsequent second timing during the variable display. Here, the step-up notice is a kind of notice that is executed during the change display of the symbol executed for one starting prize, and in particular, the form of the notice (display, sound, lamp, movable object, etc.) Indicates a notice that changes (steps up) into multiple stages.

  In step-up notice, the greater the number of changes (number of steps), the higher the reliability. Many of the notices are for notifying that a jackpot or reach will be made, but the target for notifying the probability change jackpot, a specific reach, or promotion to probability change may also be changed. For example, it may be “reach confirmation” when going to step 3, “super reach confirmation” when going to step 4, and “big hit confirmation” when going to step 5. The change in the notice mode (step-up) may be such that different characters appear in order, or may be stepped up by changing the shape or color of one character. That is, if it is possible to recognize that the state of the notice (display, sound, lamp, movable object, etc.) as seen from the player has changed stepwise, it is not limited to the above example, but can be said to be a step-up notice. .

  As described above, when the step-up notification is made at each of the first timing and the subsequent second timing, the reliability of the step-up notification executed at the first timing at the second timing. From the step-up notice types provided with a plurality of types of step-up notices so that a notice with a lower reliability than the reliability of the step-up notice executed at the first timing is not executed. Select and execute.

  In addition, during the variable display, instead of executing the step-up notice in multiple stages at each of the first timing and the subsequent second timing, the step-up notice, the button notice, and the group notice The notice effects having different execution timings may be executed at a plurality of timings (for example, a plurality of timings such as executing a step-up notice after the button notice is executed). Here, the group notice refers to a notice effect in which a notice is given by displaying a group of predetermined character images. As a group notice, for example, a plurality of notice patterns are provided by providing a plurality of types of group characters (characters constituting a group) according to the reliability that is a big hit. The button notice refers to an effect of displaying a plurality of kinds of notice images that differ depending on the reliability that is a big hit when a predetermined operation means is operated. As described above, when a notice effect having different execution timings is executed at a plurality of timings, a notice with a later execution timing does not execute a notice with a lower reliability than that of the previous notice. Thus, the control for limiting the notice effect may be performed.

Next, main effects obtained by the embodiment described above will be described.
(1) As shown in S6 to S8, S44, and S45 of FIG. 7, based on the control data stored in the backup before the power is turned off, when the right is generated before the power is turned off. Since the right generation notification is performed when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is activated, it is possible to know that the right has been generated before the power-off state based on the notification. Thereby, when the gaming state is restored when the power is turned on, the restored control state can be accurately grasped with respect to the control state related to the transition to the release control state.

  (2) As shown in S46 and S47 of FIG. 7, when the probability change state (high-accuracy high-base state) occurs before the power is turned off, high-probability notification is performed when the pachinko gaming machine 1 is started. Based on the notification, it is possible to know that the probability change state (highly accurate high base state) was reached before the power was turned off. Therefore, when the gaming state is restored when the power is turned on, the restored control state can be grasped more accurately.

  (3) S5111, S5113, S5118 in FIG. 23, S52301, S52304 in FIG. 26, S29 in FIG. 8, S5120-S5122 in FIG. 24, S252 in FIG. 28, S261-S263 in FIG. 29, S2007, S2008 in FIG. As shown in S2012 to S2018 and S256 and S257 in FIG. 28, when a winning ball payout condition such that a condition for outputting a winning ball number command is satisfied, a predetermined number (10) of winning balls The payout signal indicating that the payout condition for paying out is established is output to the outside of the pachinko gaming machine 1. As a result, it is possible to receive a winning signal when the payout condition is satisfied, without waiting until the time when the winning ball is actually paid out, outside the pachinko gaming machine 1. Whether or not the ball has been paid out can be accurately recognized outside the pachinko gaming machine 1.

  (4) As shown in FIG. 20, when a game ball enters the specific gate 33 in the right generation state, after the same time T has passed, regardless of the type of jackpot, Opening will be started. Therefore, regardless of the type of jackpot, since the opening of the grand prize opening is started after a certain period of time has passed since the game medium entered the specific area, the opportunity for opening the big prize opening becomes clear. It is possible to ensure fairness among players with different knowledge.

  (5) As shown in FIG. 1, a specific gate 33 is provided in an area where the special variable prize-winning device 20 is provided among a plurality of areas (the left area 7 a and the right area 7 b) in the game area 7. Then, by changing the firing strength of the hitting ball launcher according to the amount of operation of the hitting operation handle 5, the player can change the area for hitting the game ball, such as right hitting or left hitting. Will be able to start the opening control state when the player has the intention to start the opening control state of the winning prize opening, preventing the opening control state from starting at a time contrary to the player's will. be able to.

  (6) As shown in the second embodiment, when the period in which the game ball does not enter the specific gate 33 becomes equal to or longer than the predetermined period in the right generation state, the control is shifted to the power saving mode in which the power consumption is limited. Thus, wasteful power consumption can be reduced.

  (7) As shown in the third embodiment, after the right has been generated, a new variable display on the effect display device 9 or the like is executed even during a specific period until the game ball enters the specific gate 33. It is possible, and even if it is determined beforehand as a big hit for a new variable display, the big hit display result is not displayed as a display result, and the notification that suggests the occurrence of the big hit like the driving area notification is limited. As a result, there can be a state where a big hit that the player cannot recognize the occurrence of can be accumulated, so that the interest of the game can be improved.

  (8) As shown in the fourth embodiment, when a common effect is executed during the right generation state, when a game ball enters the specific gate 33 due to such a common effect, the probability change state is reached. Since the hidden effect control that cannot be specified as to which of the uncertain and indeterminate state is performed, the player's expectation during the rights generation state can be drowned, so that the interest of the game can be further improved it can.

  (9) A right-handed signal is output in S271 and S275 in FIG. 31 from the time when the big hit display result is derived and displayed and the right is generated in S134 in FIG. By performing such control, when the test signal connector 310 is mounted on the connector mounting portion 311 as shown in FIG. 3, the test device outside the pachinko gaming machine 1 or an external device such as a hall management computer is provided. In a configuration in which a test signal can be output, a right generation state is established, which is a condition for controlling to the open control state of the big prize opening based on the game ball entering the specific gate 33 Based on that, a right-handed signal that specifies that a game ball is to be shot into the right region 7b provided with the special variable winning device 20 is created from the timing before the game ball enters the specific gate 33. It is possible to simplify the manner of progressing the game, and it is possible to deal with the progress of the game and facilitate the progress of the game. Furthermore, it is possible to simplify the method of progressing the game during the test, and it is possible to output a signal corresponding to the progress of the game and facilitating the progress of the game as a test signal.

  (10) In the high-accuracy base state, a right-handed signal is output through S273 and S275 in FIG. By performing such control, when the test signal connector 310 is mounted on the connector mounting portion 311 as shown in FIG. 3, the test device outside the pachinko gaming machine 1 or an external device such as a hall management computer is provided. In the configuration in which the test signal can be output, the game ball is hit in the right region 7b where the special variable prize-winning device 20 is provided when the high base state is controlled after the end of the big hit gaming state. A right-handed signal that specifies that the game is to be entered is created, so that it is possible to respond to the progress of the game whether it is controlled to the high base state and to make the game proceed quickly.

Next, modifications, feature points, and the like of the embodiment described above are listed below.
(1) In the embodiment described above, the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b, which are two special symbol displays, are provided, and the two special symbols are variably displayed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration may be adopted in which one special symbol display is provided instead of two special symbol displays, and one special symbol is variably displayed. In the case of adopting such a configuration, the special symbol change display on the special symbol display is executed in accordance with each of the winning at the first starting winning port 13 and the winning at the second starting winning port 14. You can do so. In other words, various controls for causing the first special symbol display 8a to execute the first special symbol based on the winning of the first start winning port 13 and the second special symbol display based on the winning of the second starting winning port 14. The various controls for causing the second special symbol to be executed by the device 8b may be applied to the variation display of the special symbol in one special symbol display.

  (2) In the above-described embodiment, the effect control board 80, the audio output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as the boards on which the circuit for controlling the effect device is mounted. May be mounted on one substrate. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) on which a circuit for controlling the effect display device 9 and the like is mounted, and a circuit for controlling other effect devices (lamps, LEDs, speakers 27R, 27L, etc.) are mounted. Alternatively, two substrates, the second effect control substrate, may be provided.

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

  (4) The embodiments described above are not limited to payout-type gaming machines that pay out a predetermined number of prize balls in response to detection of winning balls, but respond to detection of winning balls by enclosing game balls. It can also be applied to an enclosed game machine that gives points.

  (5) The embodiment described above can also be applied to an apparatus such as a game machine that simulates the operation of the pachinko gaming machine 1. The program and data for realizing the above-described embodiment are not limited to a form distributed and provided to a computer apparatus or the like by a detachable recording medium, but a storage apparatus that the computer apparatus or the like has in advance. You may take the form that is distributed by pre-installing. Furthermore, the program and data for realizing the present invention are distributed by downloading from other devices on a network connected via a communication line or the like by providing a communication processing unit. It doesn't matter. The game embodiment is not only executed by attaching a removable recording medium, but can also be executed by temporarily storing a program and data downloaded via a communication line or the like in an internal memory or the like. It is also possible to execute directly using hardware resources on the other device side on a network connected via a communication line or the like. Further, the game can be executed by exchanging data with other computer devices or the like via a network.

  In the above-described embodiment, an example in which a plurality of types of jackpot types are controlled to the open control state of the big prize opening based on the fact that the game ball has entered the specific gate 33 in the right generation state has been shown. However, for some of the multiple types of big hit types, even if the game ball does not enter the specific gate 33, it may be controlled to the open control state of the big winning opening. In other words, when the jackpot display result is displayed in the variable display, it may be controlled to the open control state of the big winning opening as it is. For example, in addition to the normal big hit and probability variation big hits described above, when the type of sudden big hit is added, when the big hit display result is displayed in the variable display, the big winning opening is in the open control state as it is. It may be controlled.

  In the above-described embodiment, an example is shown in which the control for opening the big prize opening is performed in a plurality of rounds as the opening control state when the big hit is made. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the opening control state when a big hit is achieved is, for example, that the big winning opening is opened only once, the number of game balls won in the big winning opening is counted, and a predetermined number (for example, 2000) When the game ball of (departure) wins the big winning opening, control may be performed to end the open state of the big winning opening.

  (6) The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  7 game area, 33 specific gate, 1 pachinko machine, 560 microcomputer for game control, 55 RAM.

Claims (1)

After a predetermined condition is established, the gaming state is controlled to a specific gaming state that is more advantageous for the player than the normal gaming state based on the fact that the gaming medium has entered the gaming area into which the gaming medium is to be placed. A gaming machine that
Game control means for controlling the progress of the game;
Backup storage means for back-up storing control data for specifying a control state by the game control means when the gaming machine is powered off;
Control state recovery means for recovering the control state of the game control means based on the control data stored in the backup storage means when the gaming machine is powered on;
When the control state of the game control means is recovered by the control state recovery means, if the predetermined condition is satisfied, a condition establishment notification for notifying that the predetermined condition is satisfied And a game machine.

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