JP2013042830A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine equipped with a sound volume setting means, configured to reduce sound volume by an external command regardless of sound volume set by the sound volume setting means.SOLUTION: A performance control unit (300) includes a function of controlling sound volume of a speaker based on settings configured by the sound volume setting means (46). When a sound volume regulation signal reception means receives a sound volume regulation signal, the sound volume of game performance sound to be output from the speaker is set to first predetermined sound volume which is not based on the settings configured by the sound volume setting means. When an abnormal condition detection means detects an abnormal condition, warning sound is output from the speaker regardless of frame update timing with second predetermined sound volume larger than the first sound volume which is not based on the settings configured by the sound volume setting means regardless of whether the first predetermined sound volume has been set or not.

Description

  The present invention relates to a speaker capable of outputting a game effect sound, a display device capable of variably displaying identification information, a volume setting means capable of changing a sound effect sound output from the speaker by a predetermined setting operation, and a game The present invention relates to a gaming machine including an effect control means for controlling display on a display device and controlling game effect sound output to a speaker based on a control command signal from a game control means for managing the progress of the game.

  In conventional gaming machines, for example, pachinko gaming machines, illegal acts by players are a problem. For example, foreign objects such as a piano wire are intruded through a gap in a housing frame to damage internal components and equipment, or illegally obtain a game ball as a prize. In addition, illegally generating magnetic fields and radio waves to adversely affect the sensors and electronic devices inside the pachinko gaming machine to obtain a large amount of game balls.

Therefore, in order to prevent these fraudulent acts, if a fraudulent act or a state that does not occur in normal games (error) is detected, a warning sound is emitted from the speaker that produces the sound production, and a nearby player or pachinko hall There has been proposed a gaming machine that enables early detection of fraudulent activity by notifying a member and preventing fraudulent activity in advance (for example, Patent Document 1).
In recent years, in order to allow a player to enjoy a game effect sound with his / her favorite volume, a gaming machine provided with operation means capable of adjusting the volume on the front side has been put into practical use. An invention relating to a gaming machine provided with a knob for volume adjustment is described in Patent Document 2, for example.

JP 2009-118958 A JP 05-253353 A

In the case of a gaming machine having a function of detecting fraud as disclosed in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 and configured to emit a warning sound through a speaker, if an operating means for adjusting the volume of the speaker is provided, an attempt is made to cheat. The person who does the fraud is to set the speaker volume to the lowest level before performing the fraud, and then avoid the fraud by finding the fraud, or delay the discovery of the fraud and There is a problem that it is allowed to illegally acquire game balls.
Also, in pachinko machines, setting means (switch) for adjusting the volume of the speaker is often provided on the back side of the game board, and even in such a case, a malicious fraudster operates the volume control switch on the back side. There is a risk of cheating after turning down the volume.
In addition, conventional gaming machines each have a volume setting means, and even if the volume of the speaker is set lower than the maximum volume according to the game store policy, the player plays a game on most gaming machines. In such a prosperous period, even if the game production sound of each gaming machine is not so high, the whole game store has a very loud volume, and even if the in-store broadcast is played, it may be difficult for the player to hear.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and the object of the present invention is to set a speaker volume at a low volume in a gaming machine having a function of detecting fraud or error, a speaker, and a volume setting means. Even if it is done, it is to be able to be surely notified when an illegal act or an error is detected.
Another object of the present invention is to allow a gaming machine equipped with a volume setting means to reduce the volume by an external command regardless of the volume set by the volume setting means.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention described in claim 1
A speaker capable of outputting game effect sounds;
A display device capable of variably displaying the identification information;
Volume setting means capable of changing the volume of the game effect sound output from the speaker by a predetermined setting operation;
Game control means for managing the progress of the game;
Based on a control command signal from the game control means, effect control means for controlling display on the display device and controlling game effect sound output to the speaker;
In a gaming machine equipped with
The production control means includes
Drawing data to be displayed on the display device is stored in a frame buffer, and display data that can be displayed on the display device is generated based on the drawing data stored in the frame buffer when a predetermined frame update timing is reached Display control means for outputting
An abnormality detection means for detecting that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine based on a predetermined event;
An abnormality elimination detecting means for detecting that the anomaly has been eliminated;
A volume restriction signal receiving means for receiving a volume restriction signal transmitted from the outside of the gaming machine;
With
A function of controlling the output volume of the speaker based on the setting by the volume setting means;
When the volume restriction signal receiving means receives the volume restriction signal, the volume of the game effect sound output from the speaker is set to a predetermined first volume that is not based on the setting of the volume setting means. West,
When the occurrence of an abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection means, it is larger than the first volume that is not based on the setting by the volume setting means, regardless of whether or not the predetermined first volume is set. An abnormality notification sound is output from the speaker at a predetermined second volume regardless of the frame update timing.

  Here, the “game control means” and the “production control means” can each be constituted by a CPU and a program executed by the CPU. Further, the “display device” includes a device for executing the original variation display game in addition to a device for displaying the decorative special figure variation display game. The "abnormality detection means" detects the occurrence of an abnormality based on a signal, information or command notifying an abnormality supplied from the game control means, in addition to detecting the occurrence of an abnormality based on a signal input to the effect control means. Including what to do. The “predetermined volume not based on the setting operation” is not limited to the maximum volume, and may be a volume close to the maximum volume.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, when an abnormality is detected, the abnormality notification is performed at a predetermined volume regardless of the setting by the volume setting means, so that the output of the speaker is set to a relatively low volume by the volume setting means. Even if it has been set, it is possible to reliably recognize that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine by notifying at a predetermined volume, and if an abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection means, Since the notification sound is output from the speaker regardless of the frame update timing, it is possible to immediately notify that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine.
In addition, by outputting a volume control signal from a management device (hall computer) or the like provided outside the gaming machine, the volume of the gaming machine can be lowered all at once, and an emergency announcement notifying the occurrence of a disaster, etc. When notified, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the player misses the emergency announcement due to the game effect sound.

The invention according to claim 2 is the gaming machine according to claim 1,
The production control means includes
There are a plurality of channels for outputting to the speaker, the volume can be set for each of the plurality of channels, and it is possible to output simultaneously by reproducing different phrase data for each channel,
Phrase data related to the abnormal alarm sound is assigned to one channel, and phrase data related to game effect sound is assigned to a channel different from the one channel,
When the abnormality detecting means does not detect the occurrence of an abnormality and when the abnormality elimination detecting means detects that the abnormality of the gaming machine has been eliminated, the phrase effect sound is stored as phrase data relating to the gaming effect sound. Is played at a volume based on the setting by the volume setting means on the channel to which is assigned,
When occurrence of an abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection means, the phrase data relating to the game effect sound is reproduced on the channel to which the abnormality notification sound is assigned, and is also reproduced on the channel to which the game effect sound is assigned. The phrase data relating to the game effect sound is reproduced without lowering the volume without stopping the reproduction of the phrase data.

Here, “reduce the volume” includes a case where the volume is set to “0”.
According to the second aspect of the present invention, when an abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection means, an abnormality notification sound is output, and the volume is lowered without stopping the reproduction of the phrase data relating to the game effect sound. Therefore, it is possible to recognize that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine by outputting an abnormality notification sound, and when it is detected that the abnormality has been resolved, the game effect is produced without interruption after the abnormality notification ends. Sound output can be restored early and smoothly.

A third aspect of the present invention is the gaming machine according to the second aspect,
The production control means includes
If a setting operation is performed during output of the abnormality notification sound so that the volume setting means lowers the volume before starting the output of the abnormality notification sound, the volume change based on the setting operation is invalidated. While avoiding changing the volume,
During the output of the abnormality notification sound, if a setting operation is performed in the volume setting means to make the volume higher than the volume before the output of the abnormality notification sound, the volume change based on the setting operation is suspended. Then, at a timing when the abnormality notification sound is stopped, the volume is changed to a volume based on the setting operation during output of the abnormality notification sound.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, the setting operation for increasing the volume is enabled during the abnormality notification, and the volume is changed at the timing when the abnormality notification ends. Therefore, the player hears a large abnormality notification sound. As a result, when the user notices that the game effect sound has been low so far and wants to increase the volume and operates the volume setting means, the request can be immediately reflected. In addition, the setting operation to decrease the volume is invalidated during the abnormality notification, so the player hears a large abnormality notification sound and mistakenly decreases the volume, and when the abnormality is resolved, the game effect sound cannot be heard. It is possible to prevent such an inconvenient situation from occurring.

The invention according to claim 4 is the gaming machine according to claim 3,
The game control means includes
Storage means that can store various data even when a power failure occurs when backup power is supplied,
When the power is turned on, it is determined whether or not the storage content of the storage means is normal. When it is determined that the storage content is not normal, the storage content is initialized and an initialization notification sound indicating that the storage content is initialized is output. Control command transmission means for transmitting a control command for performing the operation by the speaker,
The production control means includes
Based on the reception of a control command for outputting the initialization notification sound, the initialization notification sound is output,
When a setting operation for changing the volume is performed in the volume setting means during the output of the initialization notification sound, the output volume of the speaker is changed to a volume based on the setting operation. And

  According to the invention described in claim 4, during the output of the initialization notification sound, when the setting operation for changing the volume is performed in the volume setting means, the volume is changed to the volume based on the setting operation. The volume level adjusted by the operation and setting operation of the volume setting means can be confirmed without waiting for the end of the initialization process executed after the power is turned on. Can be terminated.

The invention according to claim 5 is the gaming machine according to claim 4,
The production control means includes
If a setting operation for changing the volume is performed in the volume setting means while the initialization notification sound is being output, the output volume of the speaker is set to the setting operation only for a predetermined period after the setting operation. It is characterized in that the volume is changed to the base volume.

  According to the fifth aspect of the invention, it is possible to reliably notify that the initialization is being performed by the initialization notification sound, and the output volume of the speaker is changed to the volume based on the setting operation only for a predetermined period after the setting operation. Therefore, even if a person trying to cheat turns on the initialization switch and operates the volume setting means to lower the volume and then cheats, the initialization notification is made at the original volume after a predetermined period of time. Since sound is output, cheating can be easily found.

  According to the present invention, in a gaming machine equipped with a function for detecting fraud or error and a speaker and volume setting means, even if the volume of the speaker is set to a low volume by the player, the fraud or error is detected. This can be reliably notified in some cases. Further, there is an effect that the sound volume can be reduced by an external command regardless of the sound volume set by the sound volume setting means.

It is a front view which shows one Embodiment of the game machine which concerns on this invention. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the system of the game store using the game machine of embodiment. It is a front view which shows the structural example of the game board in the game machine of embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the control system and game control apparatus which are provided in the back surface of the game machine of embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the presentation control apparatus of embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the detail of the graphic processor (VDP) which comprises an effect control apparatus. It is a functional block diagram showing an internal configuration of a sound source LSI (sound IC) constituting the effect control device. It is a flowchart which shows the first half part of the specific procedure of a main process among the game control performed by the game microcomputer of the game control apparatus of embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the latter half part of the specific procedure of a main process among the game controls performed by the game microcomputer of the game control apparatus of embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the specific procedure of a timer interruption process among the game controls performed by the game microcomputer of the game control apparatus of embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the specific procedure of the command transmission process and effect control command transmission process which are performed during the timer interruption process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the specific procedure of the effect control command output process and command data output process which are performed during the effect control command transmission process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the specific procedure of the special figure game process performed during the timer interruption process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the specific procedure of the special figure normal process performed during the special figure game process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the specific procedure of the special figure 1 fluctuation start process performed during the special figure normal process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the specific procedure of the special figure 1 stop symbol setting process performed during the special figure 1 fluctuation start process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the specific procedure of the fluctuation | variation start information setting process performed during the special figure 1 fluctuation | variation start process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the specific procedure of the special figure change process performed during the special figure game process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the procedure of 1st main process among the presentation control performed by the presentation control apparatus of embodiment. FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a command reception interrupt process performed during the first main process of FIG. 19. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the procedure of 2nd main process among the presentation control performed by the presentation control apparatus of embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the procedure of the normal game process performed during the 2nd main process of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the procedure of the V blank interruption process performed by the presentation control apparatus of embodiment. It is a timing chart which shows the transmission method of the command transmitted from a game control apparatus to an effect control apparatus. It is a display screen explanatory view showing an example of a volume adjustment screen displayed on the display device when the player operates the input operation unit on the front surface of the gaming machine. It is a timing chart which shows the timing of the 1st Example of error alerting | reporting control. It is a timing chart which shows the modification of 1st Example of error alerting | reporting control. It is a timing chart which shows the timing of the error alerting | reporting control performed by a production | presentation control apparatus when an error generate | occur | produces during execution of a variable display game. It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between each channel and volume level in sound source LSI in a normal game, and the relationship between each channel and sound volume level in sound source LSI in abnormal occurrence. It is a timing chart which shows the timing of the error alerting control performed by a production | presentation control apparatus during RAM clear operation immediately after power activation. 12 is a timing chart showing another embodiment of speaker volume control executed by the effect control device when the volume SW on the front side of the gaming machine is operated during a game. It is a timing chart which shows an example of the volume control by the production | presentation control apparatus in embodiment which provided the volume control switch in the front side and back side, respectively, of the gaming machine. It is a timing chart which shows the other example of the volume control by the production | presentation control apparatus in embodiment which provided the volume control switch in the front side and back side, respectively. 12 is a timing chart showing an example of volume control by the effect control device when a volume control signal from the game hall management device is input to the gaming machine via the information collection terminal device. It is a timing chart which shows the example of the volume control by the production | presentation control apparatus in the other Example which provided the volume control switch in the front side and the back side, respectively, of the gaming machine. It is a figure which shows the example of the setting screen displayed on a display apparatus when a volume control switch is operated.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment includes a front frame 12, and the front frame 12 is assembled to a main body frame (outer frame) 11 via a hinge 13 so as to be openable and closable. The game board 30 (see FIG. 3) is stored in a storage portion (not shown) formed on the front side of the front frame 12. Further, a glass frame 15 having a cover glass (transparent member) 14 covering the front surface of the game board 30 is attached to the front frame (inner frame) 12.

  Further, an illuminating device (moving light) 16 having a built-in lamp and motor and a lamp (LED) 17 for paying out abnormality notification are provided in the upper part of the glass frame 15. Further, on the left and right sides of the glass frame 15, there are provided a frame decoration device 18 with a built-in lamp and the like for emitting light for decoration and production, and a speaker (upper speaker) 19a for emitting sound (for example, sound effects). Yes. Further, a speaker (lower speaker) 19 b is also provided below the front frame 12.

  In addition, at the lower part of the front frame 12, an upper plate 21 for supplying game balls to a not-shown hitting ball launcher, and game balls paid out from a ball payout device provided on the back side of the gaming machine 10 flow out. There are provided a dish tray outlet 22, a lower dish 23 for storing game balls paid out in a state in which the upper dish 21 is full, an operation unit 24 of a ball striking device, and the like. Furthermore, an input operation unit 25 having an effect button 25a and a select button 25b incorporating operation switches for receiving an operation input from a player is provided on the upper edge of the upper plate 21. Further, a key 26 for opening and locking the front frame 12 is provided on the lower right side of the front frame 12.

  In the gaming machine 10 of this embodiment, when the player rotates the operation unit 24, the hitting ball launching device directs the game ball supplied from the upper plate 21 toward the game area 32 on the front surface of the game board 30. And fire. In addition, when the player operates the effect button 25a, an effect or the like in which the player's operation is intervened is performed in the variable display game (decoration special map variable display game) on the display device 41 (see FIG. 3). Can do.

Further, in this embodiment, the volume emitted from the speakers 19a and 19b can be adjusted by operating the input operation unit 25. Further, a multi-stage volume setting device 46 (see FIG. 5) is provided on the back side of the gaming machine so that the volume emitted from the speakers 19a and 19b can be adjusted according to the setting state of the volume setting device 46. Is also configured. That is, both the front and back volume setting means (volume control switch) of the gaming machine are provided.
Further, on the front surface of the glass frame 15 above the upper plate 21, a prepaid card is discharged from a ball lending button 27 operated when a player receives a ball lending from an adjacent ball lending machine, and a card unit of the ball lending machine. For this purpose, a discharge button 28 to be operated, a balance display unit (not shown) for displaying the balance of the prepaid card, and the like are provided.

  In a game store such as a pachinko store, a plurality of gaming machines 10 having the above-described configuration are arranged in a line to form an island facility, and a plurality of such island facilities are provided on one floor. . As shown in FIG. 2, each gaming machine 10 is provided with an information collection terminal device 410 that collects gaming machine information and a call lamp 420 on a one-to-one basis. Via a LAN (local area network) 510 such as a trademark, it is connected to a game hall management apparatus 600 having a database so that data can be transmitted and received. In a large-scale game arcade, a relay device 520 is provided in the middle of the LAN 510. A corner lamp 530 is provided for each island facility.

  In the system of FIG. 2, the game hall management device 600 transmits the volume restriction information by a broadcast method (communication for unspecified majority) using a specific address, and the information collection terminal device 410 that has received the information receives the volume. A restriction signal is generated and output to a corresponding gaming machine. The information collecting terminal device 410 receives a prize ball signal, a special prize signal (big hit signal), a probability change / short time signal, a start signal / start winning signal, a symbol confirmation signal, a glass frame / outer frame open, which are output from the corresponding gaming machine 10 In response to the signal, the collected data is generated and transmitted to the game hall management device 600 via the LAN 510.

Next, an example of the game board 30 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a front view of the game board 30 of the present embodiment.
On the surface of the game board 30, a substantially circular game area 32 surrounded by the guide rail 31 is formed. The game area 32 is surrounded by resin side cases 33 and guide rails 31 provided at the four corners of the game board 30. In the game area 32, a center case 40 provided with a display device 41 is disposed substantially at the center. The display device 41 is attached to a recessed portion provided in the center case 40 at a position deeper than the front surface of the center case 40. That is, the center case 40 surrounds the display area of the display device 41 and is formed to protrude forward from the display surface of the display device 41.

  The display device 41 is configured by a device having a display screen such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or a CRT (CRT). A plurality of pieces of identification information (special symbols), a character that produces a special figure variation display game, a background image that enhances the effect, and the like are displayed in an area (display area) in which an image of the display screen can be displayed. On the display screen of the display device 41, a plurality of special symbols assigned as identification information are variably displayed (variably displayed), and a decorative special figure variation display game corresponding to the special diagram variation display game is played. In addition, an image for an effect based on the progress of the game (for example, a jackpot display image, a fanfare display image, an ending display image, etc.) is displayed on the display screen.

On the left side of the center case 40 in the game area 32, a normal symbol start gate (ordinary start gate) 34 is provided. Three general winning openings 35 are arranged on the lower left side of the center case 40, and one general winning opening 35 is arranged on the lower right side of the center case 40.
In each of the general winning awards 35,.
A start winning opening 36 is provided below the center case 40 for giving a start condition for the special figure variation display game, and a game ball easily flows into the upper portion by opening a reverse “C” shape at the top. An ordinary variable winning device (general power) 37 having a pair of movable members 37b and 37b for converting into a state and having a second start winning port is disposed therein.

The pair of opening / closing members 37b, 37b of the normal variation winning device 37 always holds a closed state (a disadvantageous state for the player) with an interval of about the diameter of the game ball. However, since the start winning port 36 is provided above the normal variation winning device 37, the game ball cannot be won in the closed state.
Then, when the result of the normal variation display game becomes a predetermined stop display mode, it is opened in a reverse “C” shape by a general electric solenoid 37c (see FIG. 4) as a drive device, and a normal variation prize is won. The device 37 can be changed to an open state (a state advantageous to the player) in which a game ball easily flows.
Further, a special variable winning device (large winning mouth) 38 that can be converted into a state where a game ball is not accepted and a state where it is easy to accept depending on the result of the special figure changing display game is arranged below the normal variable winning device 37. Yes.

The special variable winning device 38 has an attacker-type opening / closing door that can be opened by rotating in a direction in which the upper end side is tilted toward the front side. The winning opening is closed (blocked state unfavorable for the player) to the open state (state advantageous to the player).
That is, the special variable prize winning device 38 includes a big prize opening that is opened and closed by an open / close door that is driven by a big prize opening solenoid 38b (see FIG. 4) as a driving device, for example. Is converted from a closed state to an open state, thereby facilitating the inflow of game balls into the special winning opening, and a predetermined game value (prize ball) is given to the player.

In addition, a count switch 38a (see FIG. 4) as a detecting means for detecting a game ball that has entered the big prize opening is disposed inside the big prize opening (winning area).
Below the special variable winning device 38, there is provided an out port 39 for collecting game balls that have not won a winning port.
In addition, outside the game area 32 (for example, at the top of the game board 30), the first special figure fluctuation display game or the second special figure fluctuation display game that forms the special figure fluctuation display game and the winning for the normal figure start gate 34 are displayed. A collective display device 50 is provided for executing a universal map display game with a trigger at one location.

  The collective display device 50 includes a first special figure fluctuation display unit (special figure 1 display) 51 and a second special figure for a first special figure fluctuation display game configured by a 7-segment display (LED lamp) or the like. A second special figure fluctuation display unit (special figure 3 display) 52 for a fluctuation display game is provided. In addition, a fluctuation display section (common figure display) for a general-purpose variable display game configured by LED lamps, a memory display section for informing the start memory number of each variable-display game also configured by LED lamps, and a game state There is provided an LED display unit 53 including a display unit for notifying, an error display unit for displaying an error, and a round display unit for displaying the number of rounds at the time of a big hit (the number of opening / closing of the special variable winning device 38).

  The special figure fluctuation display game in the special figure 1 display and the special figure 3 display is, for example, while the fluctuation display game is being executed, that is, while the decoration special figure fluctuation display game is being performed on the display device 41, the central segment is displayed. Display blinking drive to indicate that it is changing. When the result of the game is “out of”, for example, the central segment is turned on as a result mode of out of game, and when the result of the game is “win”, the result of out of game (special result mode) is not. A game result is displayed with a result mode other than the result mode (for example, a number such as “3” or “7”) in a lit state.

  In the gaming machine 10 of the present embodiment, a game is played by launching a game ball (pachinko ball) from a launcher (not shown) toward the game area 32. The launched game balls flow down the game area 32 while changing the rolling direction by means of direction change members such as obstacle nails and windmills arranged at various locations in the game area 32, and the normal start gate 34 and the general winning opening 35 The winning prize opening 36, the normal variable prize winning device 37 or the special variable prize winning device 38 is won, or it flows into the out port 39 provided at the bottom of the game area 32 and is discharged from the game area. When a game ball wins the general winning opening 35, the start winning opening 36, the normal variation winning apparatus 37, or the special variable winning apparatus 38, the number of winning balls corresponding to the type of the winning opening is awarded by the payout control apparatus 200. It is discharged from the controlled dispensing unit to the upper plate 21 or the lower plate 23 of the front frame 12.

On the other hand, a gate switch 34a (see FIG. 4) including a non-contact type switch for detecting a game ball that has passed through the general diagram start gate 34 is provided in the general diagram start gate 34. When a game ball that has been driven into the area 32 passes through the usual figure start gate 34, it is detected by the gate switch 34a and a usual figure change display game is played.
In addition, the normal variation display game cannot be started, for example, the normal variation display game has already been played and the normal variation display game has not been completed, When 37 is converted to the open state and the game ball passes through the general figure start gate 34, if it is less than the upper limit of the normal figure start memory number, the general figure start memory number is added (+1) and the general figure start memory number is increased. One figure start memory is stored. The number of memorized start prizes is displayed on the memory display unit for notifying the number of start prizes in the LED display unit 53 of the collective display device 50.

In addition, in the normal chart start memory, a random number value for hit determination for determining a hit error of the normal figure fluctuation display game is stored, and when the random number value for hit determination coincides with the determination value In addition, a specific result mode (specific result) is derived by hitting the common map fluctuation display game.
The general-purpose variable display game is executed by a variable display unit (standard map display) of the LED display unit 53 provided in the collective display device 50. The general-purpose indicator is composed of LEDs indicating normal identification information (normal diagrams, normal symbols) in the lit state and indicating a shift in the unlit state. Fluctuation display is performed, and after a predetermined fluctuation display time has elapsed, the LED is turned on or off to display the result.

  Note that, for example, numbers, symbols, character designs, and the like may be used as the normal identification information, which is displayed by variably displaying for a predetermined time and then stopped. If the stop display of the usual figure change display game is a specific result, the pair of movable members 37b of the normal fluctuation winning device 37 is opened for a predetermined time (for example, 0.3 seconds). It becomes a state. This makes it easier for the game ball to win the second start winning opening inside the normal fluctuation winning device 37, and the number of times the second special figure changing display game is executed increases.

  When the common random number value extracted at the time of detecting passage to the general figure start gate 34 is a winning value, the normal symbol displayed on the normal figure display of the LED display unit 53 stops in the winning state and enters the winning state. At this time, the normal variation winning device 37 is in a state in which the movable member 37b is opened for a predetermined time (for example, 0.3 seconds) by driving the built-in general-purpose solenoid 37c (see FIG. 4). It is converted and the winning of the game ball is allowed.

  The winning ball to the starting winning port 36 and the winning ball to the normal variation winning device 37 are respectively detected by the starting port 1 switch 36a and the starting port 2 switch 37a provided inside. The game ball that has won the start winning opening 36 is detected as the start winning ball of the first special figure variable display game, is stored up to a predetermined upper limit number (for example, 4), and is awarded to the normal variable winning device 37. The played game balls are detected as start winning balls for the second special figure variation display game, and stored with a predetermined upper limit number (for example, four) as a limit.

  In addition, when the starting winning ball is detected, a big hit random number value, a big hit symbol random number value, and each variation pattern random number value are extracted, and the extracted random number value is stored in a special figure memory in the game control device 100 (see FIG. 4). Each area (a part of the RAM) is stored as a special figure start memory for a predetermined number of times (for example, a maximum of four times). The number stored in the special chart start memory is displayed on the memory display section for notifying the start winning number of the collective display device 50 and also displayed on the display device 41 of the center case 40.

The game control device 100 is configured to display the special figure 1 display or special figure 3 indicator (variation) provided in the collective display device 50 based on the winning at the start winning opening 36 or the normal variation prize winning device 37 or the start memory thereof. The first or second special figure variation display game is played on the display device.
The first special figure fluctuation display game and the second special figure fluctuation display game are performed by variably displaying a plurality of special symbols (special figures, identification information) and then stopping and displaying a predetermined result form. In addition, a decorative special figure fluctuation display game for displaying a plurality of types of identification information (for example, numbers, symbols, character designs, etc.) corresponding to each special figure fluctuation display game on the display device 41 is executed. ing.
As a result of the special figure fluctuation display game, when the display mode of the special figure 1 display or the special figure 3 display becomes a special result mode, a special game state (so-called big hit state) is obtained. Become. Correspondingly, the display mode of the display device 41 is also a special result mode.

  In the decorative special symbol variation display game on the display device 41, for example, the decorative special symbol (identification information) composed of the above-described numbers is left (first special symbol), right (second special symbol), middle (third special symbol). The variation display is started in the order of symbols), the symbols that have been varied after a predetermined time are sequentially stopped, and the result of the special symbol variation display game is displayed. In addition, the display device 41 performs a variable display game with a decorative special symbol corresponding to the number of special figure starting memories, and various effect displays such as the appearance of a character are performed to improve interest.

  Note that the special figure 1 display and the special figure 3 display may be separate displays or the same display, but each special figure variation display game is not to be executed independently or simultaneously. Is displayed. In addition, the display device 41 may use different display devices and different display areas in the first special map variable display game and the second special map variable display game, or use the same display device and display area. However, the decoration special figure variation display game is displayed so as not to be executed independently or simultaneously. Further, the special game variable display game may be executed only by the display device 41 without providing the game machine 10 with the special map 1 display and the special map 3 display.

Further, the second special figure variation display game is executed with priority over the first special figure variation display game. That is, if there is a start memory of the first special figure fluctuation display game and the second special figure fluctuation display game, and the execution of the special figure fluctuation display game becomes possible, the second special figure fluctuation display game is It is supposed to be executed.
In addition, in the state where the first special figure fluctuation display game (second special figure fluctuation display game) can be started and the number of start memories is zero, the start winning opening 36 (or the normal fluctuation prize winning device 37) is entered. When the game ball wins, the start memory is stored as the start right is generated, the start memory number is incremented by 1, and the first special figure variation display game (second special figure) is immediately added based on the start memory. (Variable display game) is started, and at this time, the start memory number is subtracted by one.

On the other hand, a state in which the first special figure fluctuation display game (second special figure fluctuation display game) cannot be started immediately, for example, the first or second special figure fluctuation display game has already been performed, and the special figure fluctuation display game has ended. If the game ball is won in the start winning opening 36 (or the normal variable prize winning device 37) in a state that is not in the special game state or in the special game state, the start memory number is 1 if the start memory number is less than the upper limit number. By adding, one start memory is stored. Then, in a state where the starting memory number becomes 1 or more, a state in which the first special figure fluctuation display game (second special figure fluctuation display game) can be started (the end of the previous special figure fluctuation display game or the special game state) (End), the start memory number is decremented by 1, and the first special figure fluctuation display game (second special figure fluctuation display game) is started based on the stored start memory.
In the following description, when the first special figure fluctuation display game and the second special figure fluctuation display game are not distinguished, they are simply referred to as a special figure fluctuation display game.

  Although not particularly limited, the starting port 1 switch 36a in the starting winning port 36, the starting port 2 switch 37a in the normal variable winning device 37, the gate switch 34a, the general winning port switches 35a to 35n, the count The switch 38a is a non-contact type magnetic proximity sensor (hereinafter referred to as a proximity switch) that includes a magnetic detection coil and detects a game ball using a phenomenon in which a magnetic field changes when a metal approaches the coil. Has been. A micro switch having a mechanical contact is used for the front frame opening detection switch 63 provided on the glass frame 15 or the like of the gaming machine 10 or the game frame opening detection switch 64 provided on the front frame (game frame) 12 or the like. be able to.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a control system of the pachinko gaming machine 10 according to the present embodiment.
The gaming machine 10 includes a game control device 100. The game control device 100 is a main control device (main board) for comprehensively controlling games, and a gaming microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as a gaming microcomputer) 111 is provided. The CPU unit 110 includes an input unit 120 having an input port, an output unit 130 having an output port, a driver, and the like, and a data bus 140 connecting the CPU unit 110, the input unit 120, and the output unit 130.

  The CPU section 110 receives signals (starting winning detection signals) from a gaming microcomputer (CPU) 111 called an amusement chip (IC) and a proximity switch interface chip (proximity I / F) 121 in the input section 120. An inversion circuit 112 composed of an inverter or the like that is logically inverted and input to the gaming microcomputer 111 and an oscillator such as a crystal oscillator are provided to generate a clock for a CPU operation clock, a timer interrupt, and a random number generation circuit. An oscillation circuit (crystal oscillator) 113 is included. The game control device 100 and electronic components such as a solenoid and a motor driven by the game control device 100 are supplied with a predetermined level of DC voltage such as DC32V, DC12V, and DC5V generated by the power supply device 400 so as to be operable. Is done.

  The power supply apparatus 400 includes a normal power supply including an AC-DC converter that generates the DC 32V DC voltage from a 24V AC power source, a DC-DC converter that generates a lower level DC voltage such as DC 12V and DC 5V from the DC 32V voltage, and the like. Unit 410, backup power supply unit 420 for supplying power supply voltage to the internal RAM of gaming microcomputer 111 in the event of a power failure, and a power failure monitoring circuit and an initialization switch to inform gaming control device 100 of the occurrence and recovery of power failure A control signal generation unit 430 that generates and outputs control signals such as a power failure monitoring signal, an initialization switch signal, and a reset signal is provided.

  In this embodiment, the power supply device 400 is configured separately from the game control device 100, but the backup power supply unit 420 and the control signal generation unit 430 are integrated on a separate board or the game control device 100, that is, the main control device 100. You may comprise so that it may provide on a board | substrate. Since the game board 30 and the game control device 100 are to be replaced when the model is changed, the backup power supply unit 420 and the control signal generation unit 430 are provided on a board different from the power supply apparatus 400 or the main board as in the embodiment. By providing, it can remove from the object of replacement | exchange and can aim at cost reduction.

  The backup power supply unit 420 can be composed of one large-capacity capacitor such as an electrolytic capacitor. The backup power is supplied to the game microcomputer 111 (particularly, the built-in RAM) of the game control device 100, and the data stored in the RAM is held even during a power failure or after the power is shut off. The control signal generation unit 430 monitors the voltage of 32V generated by the normal power supply unit 410, for example, detects the occurrence of a power failure when the voltage drops below 17V, for example, changes the power failure monitoring signal, and resets the signal after a predetermined time. Is output. In addition, a reset signal is output after a predetermined time has elapsed from the time when the power is turned on or the power is restored.

  The initialization switch signal is a signal generated when the initialization switch is turned on, and forcibly initializes information stored in the RAM 111C in the gaming microcomputer 111 and the RAM in the payout control device 200. . Although not particularly limited, the initialization switch signal is read when the power is turned on, and the power failure monitoring signal is repeatedly read in the main loop of the main program executed by the gaming microcomputer 111. The reset signal is a kind of forced interrupt signal and resets the entire control system.

The game microcomputer 111 constitutes a game control means for comprehensively controlling the game. Specifically, the gaming microcomputer 111 includes a CPU (central processing unit: microprocessor) 111A, a read-only ROM (read-only memory) 111B, and a RAM (random access memory) 111C that can be read and written as needed.
The ROM 111B stores invariant information (programs, fixed data, various random number judgment values, etc.) for game control in a nonvolatile manner, and the RAM 111C stores a work area for the CPU 111A and various signals and random number values during game control. Used as As the ROM 111B or the RAM 111C, an electrically rewritable nonvolatile memory such as an EEPROM may be used.

In addition, the ROM 111B stores a variation pattern table for determining a variation pattern that defines, for example, the execution time of the special figure variation display game, the production contents, and the presence or absence of the reach state.
The variation pattern table is a table for the CPU 111A to determine the variation pattern by referring to the variation pattern random numbers 1 to 3 stored as the start memory. Further, the fluctuation pattern table includes a loss fluctuation pattern table selected when the result is lost, a big hit fluctuation pattern table selected when the result is per 15R or 2R, and the like. Further, these pattern tables include a second half variation pattern table and a first half variation pattern table.

  Reach (reach state) has a display device whose display state can change, and the display device derives and displays a plurality of display results at different times, and the plurality of display results are predetermined. In the gaming machine 10 in which the gaming state becomes a gaming state advantageous to the player (special gaming state) when the special result mode is entered, the game is already derived at the stage where some of the plurality of display results are not yet derived and displayed. This means a display state in which the displayed display result satisfies the condition for the special result mode. In other words, the reach state is deviated from the display condition that is the special result mode even when the display device's variable display control progresses and reaches the stage before the display result is derived and displayed. There is no display mode. For example, a state where so-called full-rotation reach is performed in a variable display region while maintaining a state in which special result modes are aligned (so-called full rotation reach) is also included in the reach state. The reach state is a display state at the time when the display control of the display device has progressed to reach a stage before the display result is derived and displayed, and is determined before the display result is derived and displayed. The display state in the case where at least a part of the display results of the plurality of variable display areas satisfies the condition for the special result mode.

  Thus, for example, a decorative special figure fluctuation display game displayed on a display device corresponding to a special figure fluctuation display game fluctuates a plurality of identification information for a predetermined time in each of the left, middle, and right fluctuation display areas on the display device. After displaying, when the display of the result mode is stopped in the order of left, right, and middle, the condition that becomes the special result mode is satisfied in the left and right variable display areas (for example, The state in which the variable display is stopped with the same identification information) is the reach state. In addition to this, when the variable display of all the variable display areas is temporarily stopped, the condition that the special result mode is satisfied in any two of the left, middle, and right variable display areas (for example, the same The state in which the identification information is obtained (except for the special result mode) may be set as the reach state, and the remaining one variable display area may be variably displayed from the reach state.

  This reach state includes a plurality of reach productions, and the possibility that a special result mode is derived (different reliability) includes normal reach, special 1 reach, special 2 reach, special 3 reach, Premier reach etc. are set. The reliability increases in the order of no reach <normal reach <special 1 reach <special 2 reach <special 3 reach <premier reach. In addition, this reach state is included in a variable display mode at least in a case where a special result mode is derived in a special figure variable display game (when a big hit is achieved). That is, when it is determined that the special result mode is not derived in the special figure variable display game (when it is out of date), it may be included in the variable display mode. Therefore, the state in which the reach state has occurred is a state that is more likely to be a big hit than the case in which the reach state does not occur.

The CPU 111A executes a game control program in the ROM 111B, generates control signals (commands) for the payout control device 200 and the effect control device 300, and generates and outputs drive signals for the solenoid and the display device, thereby playing the gaming machine. 10 overall control is performed.
Although not shown, the game microcomputer 111 is a jackpot determining random number for the special figure variation display game, a big hit symbol random number for determining the big hit symbol, a variation pattern in the special figure variation display game (various reach and reach). A random number generation circuit for generating a variation pattern random number for determining a variation display game in a variation display without a game), a random number for determining a hit of a normal variation display game, and the like from the oscillation circuit 113 Based on the oscillation signal (original clock signal), a clock generator is provided that generates a timer interrupt signal for a predetermined period (for example, 4 milliseconds) for the CPU 111A and a clock that gives the update timing of the random number generation circuit.

  In addition, the CPU 111A stores a plurality of variation pattern tables stored in the ROM 111B in a start port switch monitoring process (step A1) and a special figure routine process (step A9) in a special figure game process (see FIG. 13) described later. Any one variation pattern table is acquired from the inside. Specifically, the CPU 111A determines the game result (big hit or miss) of the special figure fluctuation display game, the probability state (normal probability state or high probability state) of the special figure fluctuation display game as the current game state, and the current game. Based on the operation state (normal operation state or short-time operation state) of the normal variation winning device 37 as a state, the number of start memories, etc., one of the variation pattern tables is selected and acquired. To do.

  Although not shown, the payout control device 200 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an input interface, an output interface, and the like, and drives a payout motor of the payout unit in accordance with a prize ball payout command (command or data) from the game control device 100. , Control for paying out a prize ball. In addition, the payout control device 200 drives the payout motor of the payout unit based on the ball rental request signal from the card unit, and performs control for paying out the ball.

  The input unit 120 of the gaming microcomputer 111 includes a start port 1 switch 36a in the start winning port 36, a start port 2 switch 37a in the normal variation winning device 37, a gate switch 34a in the usual start gate 34, and a general winning port. An interface which is connected to the switches 35a to 35n and the count switch 38a and receives a negative logic signal such as a high level of 11V and a low level of 7V supplied from these switches, and converts it into a positive logic signal of 0V-5V. A chip (proximity I / F) 121 is provided. Proximity I / F 121 seems to be floating because the input range is 7V-11V, the lead wire of the proximity switch is improperly shorted, the switch is disconnected from the connector, or the lead wire is disconnected. An abnormal state can be detected, and an abnormality detection signal is output.

  All the outputs of the proximity I / F 121 are supplied to the second input port 122 and read into the gaming microcomputer 111 via the data bus 140, and also supplied from the main board 100 to the test firing test apparatus (not shown) via the relay board 70. It is like that. In addition, the detection signals of the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a among the outputs of the proximity I / F 121 are input to the gaming microcomputer 111 via the inverting circuit 112 in addition to the second input port 122. It is configured. The inversion circuit 112 is provided because the signal input terminal of the gaming microcomputer 111 detects that a signal from a micro switch or the like is input, and detects negative logic, that is, low level (0 V) as an effective level. Because it is designed to do.

  Therefore, when a micro switch is used as the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a, the detection signal can be directly input to the gaming microcomputer 111 without providing the inverting circuit 112. That is, when it is desired to directly input negative logic signals from the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a to the gaming microcomputer 111, the proximity switch cannot be used. As described above, the proximity I / F 121 has a signal level conversion function. In order to enable such a level conversion function, the proximity I / F 121 is supplied with a voltage of 12 V from the power supply device 400 in addition to a voltage such as 5 V required for normal IC operation. It has become.

  Further, the input unit 120 includes a start winning opening 36 converted by signals from the fraud detection magnetic sensor switch 61 and the vibration sensor switch 62 provided on the front frame 12 of the gaming machine 10 and the proximity I / F 121. The start port 1 switch 36a in the inside, the start port 2 switch 37a in the normal variation winning device 37, the gate switch 34a, the general winning port switches 35a to 35n, and the signals from the count switch 38a are taken in via the data bus 140. A second input port 122 for supplying to the microcomputer 111 is provided. The data held by the second input port 122 is read by asserting the enable signal CE1 (changing to an effective level) by the gaming microcomputer 111 decoding the address assigned to the second input port 122. be able to. The same applies to other ports described later.

  Further, the input unit 120 receives signals and payouts from the front frame opening detection switch 63 provided on the glass frame 15 and the like of the gaming machine 10 and the game frame opening detection switch 64 provided on the front frame (game frame) 12 and the like. A status signal indicating a payout abnormality from the control device 200, a shot ball break switch signal indicating a shortage of game balls before payout, and an overflow switch signal indicating overflow are fetched and supplied to the game microcomputer 111 via the data bus 140. One input port 123 is provided. The overflow switch signal is a signal that is output when it is detected that a predetermined amount or more of game balls are stored in the lower plate 23 (full).

  Further, the input unit 120 is provided with a Schmitt trigger circuit 124 for inputting signals such as a power failure monitoring signal, an initialization switch signal, and a reset signal from the power supply device 400 to the gaming microcomputer 111 and the like. The circuit 124 has a function of removing noise from these input signals. Of the signals from the power supply device 400, the power failure monitoring signal and the initialization switch signal are once inputted to the first input port 123 and taken into the gaming microcomputer 111 via the data bus 140. That is, it is treated as a signal equivalent to the signal from the various switches described above. This is because the number of terminals receiving external signals provided in the gaming microcomputer 111 is limited.

On the other hand, the reset signal RST from which noise has been removed by the Schmitt trigger circuit 124 is directly input to a reset terminal provided in the gaming microcomputer 111 and also supplied to each port of the output unit 130. Further, the reset signal RST is directly output to the relay board 70 without going through the output unit 130, thereby turning off the test test signal held in the port (not shown) of the relay board 70 for output to the test board. It is configured as follows. Further, the reset signal RST may be configured to be output to the test firing test apparatus via the relay board 70.
The reset signal RST is not supplied to the ports 122 and 123 of the input unit 120. Data set in each port of the output unit 130 by the gaming microcomputer 111 immediately before the reset signal RST is input needs to be reset to prevent malfunction of the system. This is because the data read by the gaming microcomputer 111 from the port is discarded when the gaming microcomputer 111 is reset.

The output unit 130 is connected to the data bus 140 and outputs a 4-bit data signal output to the payout control device 200, a control signal (data strobe signal) indicating validity / invalidity of the data, and a data strobe signal SSTB output to the effect control device 300. 1 and a second output port 132 for generating an 8-bit data signal to be output to the effect control device 300. Data is transmitted from the game control device 100 to the payout control device 200 and the effect control device 300 by parallel communication.
In addition, the data strobe signal from the first output port 131 is input to the output unit 130 in order to prevent a signal from being input to the game control apparatus 100 from the side of the effect control apparatus 300, that is, in order to guarantee one-way communication. A unidirectional buffer 133 that outputs an 8-bit data signal from the SSTB and the second output port 132 is provided. A buffer may be provided for a signal output from the first output port 131 to the payout control device 200.

  In addition, the output unit 130 is connected to the data bus 140 via a relay board 70 for data indicating special symbol information of the variable display game to a test firing test apparatus of an accredited organization (not shown) and a signal indicating the probability status of jackpot. The output buffer 134 is configured to be mountable. This buffer 134 is a component that is not mounted on a game control device (main board) of a pachinko gaming machine as an actual machine (mass production product) installed in the game store. A detection signal output from the proximity I / F 121, such as a start port switch, that is not required to be processed is supplied to the test firing test apparatus via the relay board 70 without passing through the buffer 134.

  On the other hand, detection signals such as the magnetic sensor switch 61 and the vibration sensor switch 62 that cannot be supplied to the test fire testing device as they are are once taken into the gaming microcomputer 111 and processed into other signals or information. An error signal indicating that the control is not possible is supplied from the data bus 140 to the trial test apparatus via the buffer 134 and the relay board 70. The relay board 70 is provided with a port that takes in the signal output from the buffer 134 and supplies it to the test test apparatus, a connector that relays and transmits a signal line of a switch detection signal that does not pass through the buffer, and the like. ing. A chip enable signal CE output from the gaming microcomputer 111 is also supplied to the port on the relay board 70, and the signal of the port selected and controlled by the signal CE is supplied to the test firing test apparatus.

  In addition, the output unit 130 is connected to the data bus 140 and is connected to the data bus 140 to open a special variation winning device 38 (a large winning opening solenoid) 38b and a solenoid (normal electric solenoid) 37c to open a movable member 37b of the normal variation winning device 37. The third output port 135 for outputting the opening / closing data of the LED and the ON / OFF data of the digit line to which the cathode terminal of the LED of the collective display device 50 is connected. A fourth output port 136 for outputting ON / OFF data of the segment line connected to the anode terminal, and a fifth output port 137 for outputting information related to the gaming machine 10 such as jackpot information to the external information terminal 71 are provided. It has been. Information relating to the gaming machine 10 output from the external information terminal 71 is transmitted to the game hall management device 600 (FIG. 2) via, for example, the information collection terminal device 410 and the relay device 510 installed in the game store.

  Further, the output unit 130 receives the opening / closing data signal of the big prize opening solenoid 38b output from the third output port 135, and receives the solenoid driving signal and the opening / closing data signal of the power solenoid 37c to generate the solenoid driving signal. A first driver (drive circuit) 138a for outputting, a second driver 138b for outputting an on / off drive signal for a digit line on the current drawing side of the collective display device 50 outputted from the third output port 135, and a fourth output port 136 The external information signal supplied to the external device such as the management device from the third driver 138c and the fifth output port 137 for outputting the ON / OFF drive signal of the segment line on the current supply side of the collective display device 50 output from the external information A fourth driver 138d for outputting to the terminal 71 is provided.

  The first driver 138a is supplied with DC32V from the power supply device 400 as a power supply voltage so that a solenoid operating at 32V can be driven. Also, DC12V is supplied to the third driver 138c that drives the segment lines of the collective display device 50. Since the second driver 138b for driving the digit line is for extracting the digit line corresponding to the display data with a current, the power supply voltage may be either 12V or 5V. The third driver 138c that outputs 12V causes a current to flow to the anode terminal of the LED via the segment line, and the second driver 138b that outputs the ground potential extracts the current via the segment line from the cathode terminal. The power supply voltage flows through the LEDs sequentially selected in step 1 so that the LEDs are lit. The fourth driver 138d that outputs the external information signal to the external information terminal 71 is supplied with DC12V in order to give the external information signal a level of 12V. Note that the buffer 134, the third output port 135, the first driver 138a, and the like may be provided on the output board 130 of the game control device 100, that is, on the relay board 70 side instead of the main board.

  Further, the output unit 130 is provided with a photocoupler 139 for transmitting information such as an identification code and a program of each gaming machine to the external inspection device 500. The photocoupler 139 is configured to be capable of bi-directional communication so that the gaming microcomputer 111 can transmit and receive data to and from the inspection device 500 through serial communication. Note that such data transmission / reception is performed using a serial communication terminal of the gaming microcomputer 111 as in the case of a general general-purpose microprocessor, and therefore, ports such as the input ports 122 and 123 are not provided.

Next, the configuration of the effect control device 300 will be described with reference to FIG.
The production control device 300 includes a main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 composed of an amusement chip (IC) as with the game microcomputer 111, and a video control microcomputer (2nd CPU) 312 that performs video control exclusively under the control of the 1st CPU 311. , VDP (Video Display Processor) 313 as a graphic processor that performs image processing for video display on the display device 41 in accordance with commands and data from the 2nd CPU 312 and various melody and sound effects are reproduced from the speakers 19a and 19b. The sound source LSI 314 for controlling the sound output is provided.

The main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 and the video control microcomputer (2nd CPU) 312 are connected to program ROMs 321 and 322 each composed of a PROM (programmable read only memory) storing a program executed by each CPU. Is connected to an image ROM 323 storing character images, video data, and command lists, and the sound source LSI 314 stores compressed audio data, sequences necessary for phrase reproduction processing, command sequences for simple access, and the like. A ROM 324 is connected.
The main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 analyzes the command from the game microcomputer 111, decides the contents of the presentation, instructs the video control microcomputer 312 about the contents of the output video, and instructs the sound source LSI 314 about the reproduced sound. Then, processing such as lighting of the decoration lamp, motor drive control, and production time management is executed. RAMs that provide work areas for the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 and the video control microcomputer (2nd CPU) 312 are provided in the respective chips. Note that the RAM that provides the work area may be provided outside the chip.

  Although not particularly limited, the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311 and the video control microcomputer (2ndCPU) 312 and the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311 and the sound source LSI 314 are serially connected. Data transmission / reception is performed, and data transmission / reception is performed in parallel with the video control microcomputer (2ndCPU) 312 and between the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311 and the VDP 313. By transmitting and receiving data in parallel, commands and data can be transmitted in a shorter time than in the case of serial. The VDP 313 includes an ultrahigh-speed VRAM (video RAM) 305 used for developing and processing image data such as characters read from the image ROM 323, and a drawing circuit for drawing image data. 306, a display circuit 308 for generating a video signal to be transmitted to the display device 41 by an LVDS (small amplitude signal transmission) method, and the like are provided. The VDP 313 will be described in detail later.

  A vertical synchronization signal VSYNC is input from the VDP 313 to the main control microcomputer 311 in order to synchronize the image of the display device 41 and the lighting of the decorative lamps provided on the front frame 12 and the game board 30. In addition, the VDP 313 notifies the video control microcomputer 312 that it is waiting to receive an interrupt signal INT0-n and a command or data from the video control microcomputer 312 in order to notify the processing status such as the end of drawing in the VRAM. A wait signal WAIT is input. Further, the video control microcomputer 312 receives from the main control microcomputer 311 a synchronization signal SYNC that informs that the video control microcomputer 312 is operating normally and gives command transmission timing. A call signal CTS and a response signal RTS are exchanged between the main control microcomputer 311 and the tone generator LSI 314 in order to transmit and receive commands and data in the handshake method.

  Note that the video control microcomputer (2ndCPU) 312 uses a CPU that is faster or more expensive than the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311. By providing a video control microcomputer (2ndCPU) 312 separately from the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311 and sharing the processing, it is possible to display a fast moving image on a large screen that is difficult to achieve with the main control microcomputer (1stCPU) 311 alone. It is possible to display on the display device 41, and it is possible to suppress an increase in cost compared to the case where two CPUs having processing capabilities equivalent to the video control microcomputer (2nd CPU) 312 are used. Also, by providing two CPUs, it becomes possible to separately develop the control programs for the two CPUs in parallel, thereby shortening the development period of the new model.

In addition, the effect control device 300 is provided with an interface chip (command I / F) 331 that receives the effect control command transmitted from the game control device 100. A variation start command, a customer waiting demo command, a fanfare command, a probability information command, an error designation command, and the like transmitted from the game control device 100 to the effect control device 300 via the command I / F 331 are used as an effect control command signal. Receive. Since the game microcomputer 111 of the game control device 100 operates at DC 5V and the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 of the effect control device 300 operates at DC 3.3V, the command I / F 331 has a signal level conversion function. Is provided.
In this embodiment, the effect control command is composed of 16 bits, and this is transmitted by an 8-bit data bus and a strobe signal SSBT. Therefore, as shown in FIG. Dividing into 8-bit first half command (MODE) and second half command (ACTION), the strobe signal SSBT is sent up by raising it twice, and the receiving side takes in the command in synchronization with the rise of SSB. .

  The effect control device 300 includes a panel decoration LED control circuit 332 for driving and controlling a panel decoration device 42 having LEDs (light emitting diodes) provided on the game board 30 (including the center case 40), and the front frame 12. Frame decoration LED control circuit 333 for driving and controlling a frame decoration device (for example, the frame decoration device 18 and the like) having LEDs (light emitting diodes) and board effects provided on the game board 30 (including the center case 40). A board effect motor / SOL control circuit 334 for driving and controlling a device (for example, an electric accessory that enhances effect effects in cooperation with effect display on the display device 41), and a motor (for example, the moving device) provided on the front frame 12 A frame effect motor control circuit 335 for driving and controlling the light 45 is provided. Note that these control circuits 332 to 335 that drive and control lamps, motors, solenoids, and the like are connected to a main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 via an address / data bus 304.

Further, the effect control device 300 includes a detection signal of a switch built in the effect button 25a and the select button 25b of the input operation unit 25 provided on the front frame 12, a signal from the volume setting device 46, the above-mentioned panel A switch input circuit 336 is provided for inputting a detection signal indicating the on / off state of the effect motor switch for detecting the initial position of the motor in the effect device 44 to the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311.
Further, the production control device 300 takes in the volume control signal sent from the game hall management device 600 (FIG. 2) via the information collecting terminal device 410 and the relay device 510 and sends it to the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311. An external signal input circuit 338 for transmission, an amplifier circuit 337a including an audio power amplifier for driving the upper speaker 19a provided on the front frame 12, and an amplifier circuit 337b for driving the lower speaker 19b provided on the front frame 12 are provided. ing. The volume restriction signal from the game hall management device 600 may be directly transmitted to the sound source LSI 314 described later instead of the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311.

  As described above, the present embodiment is configured such that the player can adjust the sound volume emitted from the speakers 19a and 19b by operating the input operation unit 25. Specifically, for example, a volume adjustment function is selected from various functions displayed on the display device 41 using the select button 25b, and a volume adjustment screen as shown in FIG. 25 is displayed. On this volume control screen, the select button 25b is operated to move the cursor (thick frame) to one of the function buttons F1, F3 displaying “−” or “+” displayed at the bottom of the screen. To select the desired button. Then, after the volume level is selected by operating the effect button 25a, the select button 25b is operated to move to the function button F2 on which “OK” is displayed, and the volume is determined by operating the effect button 25a. This can be realized by configuring as above. FIG. 25 shows an example of a volume adjustment screen when the volume can be set in five levels according to the operation of the input operation unit 25.

  Therefore, the gaming machine according to the present embodiment has the speakers 19a and 19b that can output the game effect sound, the display device 41 that can display the identification information in a variable manner, and the volume of the game effect sound that is output from the speaker. Based on a control command signal from the input control unit 25 as a volume setting means that can be changed by a setting operation, a game control device 100 as a game control means for managing the progress of the game, and the game control means, the display device And an effect control device 300 as effect control means for controlling the game effect sound output to the speaker.

  The normal power supply unit 410 of the power supply apparatus 400 drives a motor or a solenoid to supply a desired level of DC voltage to the effect control apparatus 300 having the above-described configuration and electronic components controlled thereby. DC32V for driving the display device 41 composed of a liquid crystal panel, DC5V serving as the power supply voltage for the command I / F 331, DC18V for driving the LED and speaker, and a reference for these DC voltages It is configured to generate a voltage of NDC 24V used to turn on the monitor lamp. Further, when an LSI that operates at a low voltage such as 3.3 V or 1.2 V is used as the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 or the video control microcomputer (2nd CPU) 312, DC 3. The effect control device 300 is provided with a DC-DC converter for generating 3V or DC 1.2V. The DC-DC converter may be provided in the normal power supply unit 410.

  The reset signal RST generated by the control signal generation unit 430 of the power supply apparatus 400 includes a main control microcomputer 311, a video control microcomputer 312, a VDP 313, a sound source LSI 314, control circuits 332 to 335 for driving and controlling lamps and motors, speakers, and the like. Are supplied to the amplifier circuits 337a and 337b, which are in a reset state. In this embodiment, the general-purpose port of the video control microcomputer 312 is used to generate and supply a reset signal to the VDP 313. Thereby, the cooperation of the operations of the video control microcomputer 312 and the VDP 313 can be improved.

FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram showing the internal configuration of the VDP 313 as a graphic processor that constitutes the effect control device 300.
The VDP 313 includes a CPU interface 301 that transmits and receives commands to and from the video control microcomputer (2ndCPU) 312, a CG bus interface 302 that receives data from the image ROM 323, and a 2ndCPU 312 that performs DMA (direct memory access) control. A data transfer circuit 303 that transfers data to and from the image ROM 323 and a decoder 304 that decompresses compressed data read from the image ROM 323 are provided.

  The VDP 313 is read from the image ROM 323 in accordance with a command sent from the image RAM (VRAM CG) 305, 2nd CPU 312 or a command list read from the image ROM 323, which stores material data used when drawing image data. An image RAM (VRAM FB) 307 serving as a frame buffer for storing drawing data generated by the drawing circuit 306, a drawing circuit 306 including a CPU that performs drawing processing within predetermined relative coordinates and generating drawing data; A display circuit 308 for sequentially reading out drawing data for one screen stored in the image RAM 307 as display data and outputting a digital display signal to the display device 41 is provided.

In this embodiment, the image RAM 307 as a frame buffer has a storage capacity capable of storing display data for two screens of the display device 41, and the drawing circuit 306 draws display data for one frame (one screen). In the meantime, the display device 41 is configured to display the moving image by alternately repeating the process of reading the display data of the other frame already drawn by the display circuit 308.
Accordingly, the VDP 313 (graphic processor) as the display control means generates image data by drawing the image data stored in the image data storage means and the image data read from the image data storage means within preset relative coordinates. A drawing processing unit that performs the processing, a frame buffer that stores drawing data generated by the drawing processing unit, and the drawing data stored in the frame buffer can be read at a predetermined frame update timing and displayed on the display device Display data output means for outputting the display data.
Note that the storage capacity of the image RAM 307 is not limited to the size of two frames, and may be one frame or three or more frames.

FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram showing an internal configuration of the sound source LSI (sound IC) 314 constituting the effect control device 300.
The sound source LSI (sound IC) 314 includes a CPU interface 341 that transmits and receives commands and the like to and from the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 that controls the entire production control device 300, and a main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 that is a game. Sequencer that sequentially executes processing such as phrase playback, volume setting, pan setting (such as sound mixing ratio and output ratio of each channel) according to a command received from the control device 100 according to a sequence stored in the audio ROM 324 342, a simple access circuit 343 that reads and executes a command sequence corresponding to the command from the voice ROM 324 in response to receiving the simple access command transmitted from the game control apparatus 100, and the compressed voice data read from the voice ROM 324 It has a decoder 344 for decompression .

Furthermore, a sound source LSI (sound IC) 314 includes a channel volume circuit 345 for setting the volume for each of 16 channel unit sound sources provided in the LSI, a channel mix circuit 346 for mixing sound sources of arbitrary channels, An effect circuit 347 for applying an effect (sound effect) to the sound source of the channel or the mixed synthesized sound, a total volume circuit 348 for adjusting the volume of the entire 16 channels, and the adjusted sound source data converted into an analog signal and designated An output interface 349 that outputs a speaker drive signal to the output terminal is provided. In this embodiment, the speaker drive signals output from the output interface 349 are the drive signals R and L for the upper speaker (left and right) 19a and the drive signal SUB for the lower speaker 19b.
The total volume circuit 348 of the sound source LSI (sound IC) 314 of this embodiment has a volume control signal from the information collecting terminal device 520 (game hall management device 600) or a main control microcomputer (1st CPU) according to the volume control signal. ) A mute signal MUTE supplied from 311 is input, and a speaker drive signal having a minimum volume (silence) is output in accordance with the signal. When a volume restriction signal is input, a signal that specifies not the mute signal MUTE from the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 to the sound source LSI 314 but a minimum volume (a volume corresponding to a volume level “1” described later). May be supplied.

Next, game control performed in the game control apparatus 100 will be described.
The CPU 111A of the game microcomputer 111 of the game control device 100 extracts a random number value for determining the hit of the normal figure based on the input of the detection signal of the game ball from the gate switch 34a provided in the normal figure start gate 34. Is compared with the determination value stored in, and a process for determining whether or not the normal-game fluctuation display game is hit is performed. Then, in the LED display unit 53, after the identification symbol is variably displayed for a predetermined time, a process for displaying a general symbol variation display game to be stopped is performed. If the result of this general-purpose variable display game is a win, a special result mode is displayed on the LED display unit 53, the general-purpose solenoid 37c is operated, and the open / close members 37b and 37b of the normal variable prize-winning device 37 are operated for a predetermined time. The opening control is performed as described above (for example, for 0.3 seconds).

In the present embodiment, when the result of the normal fluctuation display game is out of order, control is performed to display the outage result mode on the LED display unit 53.
Further, a start winning (starting memory) is stored based on an input of a detection signal of a game ball from a starting port 1 switch 36a provided in the starting winning port 36, and based on this start memory, the first special figure variation display game is stored. The random number value for jackpot determination is extracted and compared with the determination value stored in the ROM 111B, and a process for determining whether or not the first special figure variation display game is missed is performed. Therefore, the CPU 111A functions as a random value acquisition condition detection unit and a random value acquisition unit.

In addition, the start memory is stored based on the input of the detection signal of the game ball from the start port 2 switch 37a provided in the normal variation winning device 37, and based on this start memory, for the big hit determination of the second special figure variable display game A random number value is extracted and compared with a determination value stored in the ROM 111B, and a process of determining whether or not the second special figure variation display game is missed is performed.
Then, the CPU 111 </ b> A of the game control device 100 outputs control information (production control command) including the determination results of the first special figure fluctuation display game and the second special figure fluctuation display game to the presentation control device 300. Then, after the identification symbol is variably displayed for a predetermined time on the special figure 1 display or the special figure 3 display of the collective display device 50, a process for displaying a special figure fluctuation display game for stopping display is performed. Therefore, the CPU 111A functions as a game result determination unit that determines a random number value and performs a determination process related to the game.

Further, the effect control device 300 performs a process of displaying a decoration special figure variation display game corresponding to the special figure variation display game on the display device 41 based on the control signal from the game control device 100.
Furthermore, in the production control device 300, based on the control signal from the game control device 100, the sound output from the speakers 19a and 19b, the process of controlling the light emission of various LEDs, and the like are performed.
Then, when the result of the special figure variation display game is a win, the CPU 111A of the game control device 100 displays a special result mode on the special figure 1 display or the special figure 3 display and generates a special game state. I do.
In the process of generating the special game state, the CPU 111A performs control for allowing the game ball to flow into the special winning opening by, for example, opening the open / close door 38c of the special variable winning apparatus 38 by the special winning opening solenoid 38b. .

Then, a condition that either a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls wins the grand prize opening or a predetermined time (for example, 25 seconds or 1 second) elapses from the opening of the big prize opening is achieved. Opening the grand prize opening until one is made is defined as one round, and control (cycle game) is performed to continue (repeat) this for a predetermined number of rounds (for example, 15 times or 2 times).
When the result of the special figure variation display game is out of control, control is performed to display the result form of the deviation on the special figure 1 display or the special figure 3 display.

In addition, the game control device 100 can generate a probability change state as a game state after the special game state ends based on the result mode of the special figure variation display game.
This probability variation state is a state (high probability state) in which the probability of a hit result in the special figure variation display game is higher than the normal probability state. In addition, the first special figure variation display game and the second special figure variation display game, regardless of which one of the first special figure variation display game and the second special figure variation display game results in a certain variation state. Both display games are in a probable state.

In addition, the game control device 100 can generate a short time state as a game state after the special game state is ended based on the result mode of the special figure variation display game.
In this time-short state, control is performed so that the normal-variation display game and the normal variation winning device 37 are in the time-short operation state. Specifically, in the short-time state, the execution time of the above-described usual-variable display game is controlled to be a second variable display time shorter than the first variable display time (for example, 10 seconds is 1 second). Thus, the number of times of opening of the normal variation winning device 37 per unit time is controlled to be substantially increased. Further, in the short time state, when the normal variation winning device 37 is released as a result of the normal variation display game being won, the release time becomes a second release time longer than the first release time in the normal state. (For example, 0.3 seconds is 1.7 seconds). In the short-time state, the number of times of opening of the normal variation winning device 37 is not the first opening number of one time but a plurality of times of two or more times (for example, (3 times) the second number of times of opening.

It should be noted that the execution time of the normal variation display game is set to the second variation display time (for example, 1 second), and the release mode of the normal variation winning device 37 is the second release time (for example, 1.7). Second), and the number of times of opening with respect to one hit result of the normal variation display game is the second number of times of opening (for example, 3 times), either one or both may be performed. May be. In the short-time operation state, control may be performed so that the probability of a hit result of the normal-variable display game is higher than that in the normal operation state.
As a result, the game ball can easily win the normal variation winning device 37, and the second special figure variation display game can be easily started.
In addition, the time variation operation state of the probability variation state, the normal variation display game, and the normal variation prize winning device 37 can be generated independently, and both can be generated at the same time, or only one can be generated. Is possible.

  Hereinafter, processing executed by the gaming microcomputer (gaming microcomputer) 111 of the gaming control apparatus 100 that executes gaming control as described above will be described. Control processing by the gaming microcomputer 111 mainly includes main processing shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 and timer interrupt processing shown in FIG. 10 performed at a predetermined time period (for example, 4 msec).

[Main processing]
First, the main process will be described. The main process is started when the power is turned on. In this main process, as shown in FIG. 8, an interrupt vector setting process (step S1) for setting a jump destination vector address to be executed when an interrupt occurs after an interrupt disable process (step S1) is performed. S2), a stack pointer setting process (step S3) for setting a stack pointer that is the start address of an area in which a value of a register or the like is saved when an interrupt occurs, and an interrupt mode setting process (step S4) for setting an interrupt processing mode. )I do.

  Next, in order to wait for the program of the payout control apparatus (payout board) 200 to start up normally, for example, a time of 4 msec is waited (step S5). As a result, when the power is turned on, the game control device 100 rises first and sends the command to the payout control device 200 before the payout control device 200 starts up, thereby avoiding the payout control device 200 from losing the command. be able to. Thereafter, access to a readable / writable RWM (read / write memory: RAM 111C) such as a RAM or EEPROM is permitted, and all output ports are set to OFF (no output) (steps S6 and S7). In addition, the serial port ((port previously installed in the gaming microcomputer 111) is not used in this embodiment because it is in parallel communication with the payout control device 200 and the effect control device 300). Processing is performed (step S8).

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the initialization switch in the power supply device 400 is turned on (step S9). If it is determined that the initialization switch is off (step S9; No), it is checked whether the value of the power failure inspection area 1 in the RWM is normal power interruption inspection area check data (step S10). (Step S11; Yes), it is checked whether the value of the power failure inspection area 2 in the RWM is normal power interruption inspection area check data (Step S12). Next, if the value of the power failure inspection area 2 is normal (step S13; Yes), the checksum of the predetermined area in the RWM is calculated (step S14), and the calculated checksum and the checksum at the time of power interruption are calculated. Compare (step S15) and determine whether they match (step S16). And when it corresponds (step S16; Yes), it transfers to step S17 of FIG. 9, and performs the process at the time of recovering normally from a power failure.

  When the initialization switch is determined to be on (step S9; Yes), or when it is determined that the check data in the power failure inspection area is not normal data (step S11; No or step S13; No), the checksum Is determined to be not normal (step S16; No), the process proceeds to step S24 in FIG. 9 to perform initialization processing.

  In step S17 of FIG. 9, all the power failure inspection areas are cleared, the checksum area is cleared (step S18), and the area related to error and fraud monitoring is reset (step S19). Next, an area for storing the gaming state in the RWM is examined to determine whether or not the gaming state is a high probability state (step S20). If it is determined that the probability is not high (step S20; No), steps S21 and S22 are skipped and the process proceeds to step S23.

  If it is determined in step S20 that the probability is high (step S20; Yes), the ON information is saved in the high probability notification flag area (step S21), and the high probability notification LED (for example, provided in the batch display device 50) The ON (lighted) data of the error indicator is saved in the segment area (step S22). And the process (step S23) which transmits the command at the time of the power recovery corresponding to the process number prepared in order to rationally perform the below-mentioned special figure game process is performed (step S23), and it progresses to step S29 .

  On the other hand, when jumping from step S9, S11, S13, S16 to step S24, all work areas before the access prohibited area are cleared (step S24), and all stack areas after the access prohibited area are cleared. (Step S25), the initial value at power-on is saved in the area to be initialized (Step S26). And the time value of the period which outputs the external information regarding RWM clear is set (step S27), the command at the time of power-on is transmitted to the effect control device 300 (step S28), and the process proceeds to step S29. In step S29, a process of starting a CTC (Counter / Timer Circuit) circuit that generates a timer interrupt signal and a random number update trigger signal (CTC) in the gaming microcomputer 111 (clock generator) is performed.

  The CTC circuit is provided in a clock generator in the gaming microcomputer 111. The clock generator divides an oscillation signal (original clock signal) from the crystal oscillator 113, and a timer interrupt signal having a predetermined period (for example, 4 milliseconds) for the CPU 111A based on the divided signal. And a CTC circuit for generating a signal CTC that gives a trigger for updating a random number to be supplied to the random number generation circuit.

  After the CTC activation process in step S29, a process for activating and setting the random number generation circuit is performed (step S30). Specifically, the CPU 111A performs setting of a code (specified value) for starting the random number generation circuit in a predetermined register (CTC update permission register) in the random number generation circuit. Then, the values of the predetermined registers (soft random number registers 1 to n) in the random number generation circuit at the time of power-on are changed to various initial value random numbers (random numbers for determining the big hit symbol (big hit symbol random number 1, big hit symbol random number 2) Then, after saving the initial value (start value) of a random number (winning random number) for determining the normal hit in a predetermined area of the RWM (step S31), the interruption is permitted (step S32). The random number generation circuit in the CPU 111A used in this embodiment is configured so that the initial value of the soft random number register changes every time the power is turned on. Therefore, this value is used as the initial value (start value) of various initial value random numbers. By doing so, it is possible to break the regularity of random numbers generated by software, making it difficult for a player to obtain illegal random numbers.

  Subsequently, an initial value random number update process (step S33) is performed to update the values of various initial value random numbers to break the regularity of the random numbers. In the present embodiment, although not particularly limited, the big hit random number is configured to be generated using a random number (big hit random number) generated in a random number generation circuit. That is, the big hit random number is a hard random number generated by hardware, and the big hit symbol random number is a soft random number generated by software.

  After the initial value random number update process in step S33, the number of times the power failure monitoring signal input from the power supply 400 is read and checked via the port and the data bus is set (step S34), and the power failure monitoring signal is ON. It is determined whether or not there is (step S35). If the power failure monitoring signal is not ON (step S35; No), the process returns to the initial value random number update process (step S33). That is, when no power failure has occurred, the initial value random number update processing and the power failure monitoring signal check (loop processing) are repeated. By permitting an interrupt before the initial value random number update process (step S33) (step S32), if a timer interrupt occurs during the initial value random number update process, the interrupt process is executed with priority, and the timer interrupt Can be prevented from being interrupted by waiting for the initial value random number update process.

  Note that the initial value random number update process in step S33 includes a method of performing an initial value random number update process in the timer interrupt process in addition to the main process. In order to avoid execution of the value random number update process, when performing the initial value random number update process in the main process, it is necessary to disable the interrupt and then update to cancel the interrupt. If the initial value random number update process in the timer interrupt process is not performed in the main process and only the main process is performed, there is no problem even if the interrupt is canceled before the initial value random number update process. There is an advantage that it is simplified.

  If the power failure monitoring signal is ON (step S35; Yes), it is determined whether or not the power failure monitoring signal is in the ON state for the number of checks set in step S34 (step S36). And when the ON state of the power failure monitoring signal is not continued for the number of checks (step S36; No), the process returns to the determination of whether the power failure monitoring signal is ON (step S35; Yes). Further, when the power failure monitoring signal is ON for the number of checks (step S36; Yes), that is, when it is determined that a power failure has occurred, processing for temporarily prohibiting interruption (step S37), all A process of outputting OFF data to the output port (step S38) is performed.

  Thereafter, the power failure recovery inspection region check data 1 is saved in the power failure recovery inspection region 1 (step S39), and the power failure recovery inspection region check data 2 is saved in the power failure recovery inspection region 2 (step S40). Further, after performing the process of calculating the checksum when the RWM is turned off (step S41) and the process of saving the checksum (step S42), the process of prohibiting access to the RWM (step S43) is performed. Wait until the gaming machine is powered off. In this way, the check data is saved in the power failure recovery inspection area and the checksum at the time of power shutdown is calculated, so that whether or not the information stored in the RWM before the power shutdown is correctly backed up can be checked. This can be determined when the power is turned on again.

[Timer interrupt processing]
Next, timer interrupt processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
The timer interrupt process shown in FIG. 10 is started when a periodic timer interrupt signal generated by the CTC circuit in the clock generator is input to the CPU 111A.

  When the timer interrupt process is started, a register saving process (step S51) is performed in which a value held in a predetermined register is first transferred to the RWM. In the Z80 microcomputer used as the gaming microcomputer in this embodiment, the processing can be replaced by saving the value held in the front register to the back register. Next, an input process (step S52) for taking in inputs from various sensors (start port 1 switch 36a, start port 2 switch 37a, usual gate switch 34a, count switch 38a, etc.), that is, reading the state of each input port. )I do. Then, based on the output data set in various processes, an output process (step S53) for performing drive control of an actuator such as a solenoid (large winning opening SOL38b, general electric power SOL37c) and the like is performed.

  Next, command transmission processing (step S54), random number update processing 1 (step S55), random number update processing 2 (step S56) is performed. Thereafter, it is monitored whether a normal signal is input from the start port 1 switch 36a, the start port 2 switch 37a, the usual gate switch 34a, the winning port switch 35a... 35n, and the count switch 38a. A prize opening switch / error monitoring process (step S57) is performed to determine whether the front frame or the glass frame is open. Also, a special figure game process (step S58) for performing a process related to the special figure variable display game and a general figure game process (step S59) for performing a process related to the general map variable display game are performed.

  Next, a segment LED editing process (step S60), which is provided in the gaming machine 10 and drives a segment LED that displays various types of information related to display of special figure variation games and games, to display a desired content, magnetic sensor switch 61 And the magnet fraud monitoring process (step S61) which checks the detection signal from the vibration sensor switch 62 and determines whether there is any abnormality is performed. Then, external information editing processing (step S62) is performed in which signals to be output to various external devices are set in the output buffer. Subsequently, a process of clearing the interrupt request and declaring the end of the interrupt (step S63), a process of restoring the register data saved in step S51 (step S64), and a process of permitting the interrupt (step S64) Step S65) is performed, and the timer interrupt process is terminated.

[Command transmission processing]
Next, details of the command transmission process (step S54) in the timer interrupt process described above will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
As shown in FIG. 11A, the command transmission process includes an effect control command transmission process for the effect control device 300 (step S410) and a payout command transmission process for the payout control device 200 (step S420).

Details of the effect control command transmission process (step S410) in the command transmission process are shown in FIG. Since the payout command transmission process is not directly related to the present invention, the description thereof is omitted.
In the effect control command transmission process, as shown in FIG. 11B, first, the value of the light counter that is “+1” when the transmission command is set to RWM, and “+1” when the transmission command is read from the RWM. Is compared with the read counter value to check whether a command is set (step S411). Specifically, if the value of the write counter and the value of the read counter are the same, it is determined that there is no setting command. If the value of the write counter does not match the value of the read counter, an unsent command Is set (step S412).

  If it is determined in step S412 that there is no setting command (step S412; No), the effect control command transmission process is skipped, and a command is set in step S412 (step S412; Yes). If it is determined, the read counter is updated (+1) in the next step S413. Then, the command is loaded from the command transmission area (MODE (upper byte)) corresponding to the value of the read counter (step S414). Then, the area containing the loaded command is reset (step S415). Further, a command is loaded from the command transmission area (ACTION (lower byte)) corresponding to the value of the read counter (step S416). Then, the area containing the loaded command is reset (step S416). Thereafter, the process proceeds to an effect control command output process (step S418).

[Direction control command output processing]
Next, details of the effect control command output process (step S418) in the effect control command transmission process described above will be described.
As shown in FIG. 12A, in the effect control command output process, first, an off time of the strobe signal indicating that the command (MODE) is being output is prepared (step S181), and the command data output process (step S182: FIG. 12 (B)) is executed. As a result, the first 8 bits (MODE) of the effect control command are output. Thereafter, a command (ACTION) is output (step S183), and a strobe signal OFF time indicating that the command (ACTION) is being output is prepared (step S184), and then command data output processing (step S185: FIG. 12B). ).
Through the steps S181 and S184, the off-time of the strobe signal periods Ta and Tc shown in FIG. 24 is set.

Next, details of the command data output process (steps S182 and S185) in the above-described effect control command output process will be described.
As shown in FIG. 12B, in the command data output process, first, in order to prevent the state immediately before the port from being lost, the port state holding data of the output port 131 including the strobe signal of the effect control command output. Is loaded (step S821). Then, an effect control command as control information is output to the output port 132 (step S822), and the signal other than the strobe signal is held in the previous state to the output port 131 and is in an off state (for example, low level indicating data reading invalidity). ) Is added and output (step S823). Then, in the next step S824, it is determined whether or not the time for turning off the strobe signal (off time) has ended. If it is determined that the off time has not ended (step S824; No), the process returns to step S822 and the above process is repeated.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S824 that the off time has expired (step S824; Yes), the process proceeds to step S825, and the time for the strobe signal to be in an on state (for example, high level indicating that data reading is valid) is set. Then, an effect control command is output (step S826), and an on-state (high level) strobe signal is output (step S827).
In step S822 of the command data output process executed in step S182, the first 8 bits (MODE) of the effect control command shown in FIG. 24 are output, and the command data output executed in step S182 is executed. In step S822 of the process, the last 8 bits (ACTION) of the effect control command shown in FIG. 24 are output. In step S825, the on-times of the strobe signal periods Tb and Td shown in FIG. 24 are set.

Then, in the next step S828, it is determined whether or not the time for which the strobe signal should be turned on (on time) has ended. If it is determined that the on-time has not ended (step S828; No), the process returns to step S826 and the above process is repeated. If it is determined in step S828 that the on-time has ended (step S828; Yes), the process proceeds to step S829, where an off-state (low level) strobe signal is output, and the command data output process ends.
The reason why the effect control command is output again in step S826 is to prevent the effect control command being output from being output after the power failure is restored when a power failure occurs during the loop processing in steps S826 to S828. Because. It is also possible to avoid changing the command code due to noise. In addition, it is also possible to loop only each process in this step S824 and step S828.

[Special Figure Game Processing]
Next, details of the special game process (step S58) in the above-described timer interrupt process will be described.
In the special figure game process, the input of the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a is monitored, the entire process related to the special figure variation display game is controlled, and the special figure display is set.

As shown in FIG. 16, in the special figure game process, first, a start switch monitoring process (step A1) for monitoring a winning of the start port 1 switch 36a and the start port 2 switch 37a is performed.
In the start port switch monitoring process, when a game ball is won in the normal variable winning device 37 that forms the start winning port 36 and the second starting winning port, various random numbers (such as jackpot random numbers) are extracted and Prior to the start of the figure variation display game, a game result preliminary determination is performed in which a game result based on a prize is determined in advance. Details of the start port switch monitoring process (step A1) will be described later with reference to FIG.

Next, a count switch monitoring process (step A2) is performed. In this count switch monitoring process, a process of monitoring the count number of the count switch 38a provided in the special variation winning device 38 is performed.
Next, the special figure game process timer is updated (-1) to check whether or not the game process timer has expired (step A3), and the special figure game process timer has expired (step A4; If the determination is Yes), a special figure game sequence branch table to be referred to for branching to a process corresponding to the special figure game process number is set in the register (step A5), and the special figure game is used using the table. A process (step A6) of acquiring a branch destination address of the process corresponding to the process number is performed.

Then, after performing the process of saving the return address after the branch process to the stack area (step A7), the game branch process (step A8) is performed according to the game process number.
If the game process number is “0” in step A8, the fluctuation start of the special figure fluctuation display game is monitored, the fluctuation start setting of the special figure fluctuation display game, the setting of the effect, and the special figure fluctuation processing are performed. A special figure routine process (step A9) for setting information necessary for the execution is performed.

If the game process number is “1” in step A8, the special figure changing process for setting the stop display time of the special figure and setting the information necessary for performing the special figure display process is performed. (Step A10) is performed.
Furthermore, if the game processing number is “2” in step A8, if the game result of the special figure variation display game is a big hit, a fanfare command setting corresponding to the type of big hit (2R big hit or 15R big hit) Special chart display processing (step A11) for setting the fanfare time according to the big winning opening opening pattern of each jackpot (2R jackpot or 15R jackpot), setting information necessary for performing the fanfare / interval processing, etc. Do.

In step A8, when the game process number is “3”, setting of the opening time of the big prize opening, updating of the number of times of opening, setting of information necessary for performing the processing during opening of the big prize opening, etc. are performed. Processing during fanfare / interval (step A12) is performed.
In step A8, if the game process number is “4”, an interval command is set if the big hit round is not the final round, while a big hit end screen command is set if the big round is the final round, A large winning opening opening process (step A13) for setting information necessary for performing the winning opening remaining ball processing is performed.

If the game process number is “5” in step A8, if the big hit round is the final round, a process for setting a time for discharging the remaining balls in the big prize opening and a big hit end process are performed. A big winning opening remaining ball process (step A14) for setting information necessary for the execution is performed.
If the game process number is “6” in step A8, a big hit end process (step A15) for setting information necessary for performing the special figure routine process (step A9) is performed.

And after preparing the table for controlling the fluctuation | variation of the special figure 1 indicator 51 (step A16), the symbol fluctuation | variation control process (step A17) which concerns on the special figure 1 indicator 51 is performed. Then, after preparing the table for controlling the fluctuation | variation of the special figure 3 indicator 52 (step A18), the symbol fluctuation | variation control process (step A19) which concerns on the special figure 3 indicator 52 is performed.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step A4 that the special figure game process timer has not expired (step A4; No), the process proceeds to step A16, and the subsequent processes are performed.

[Special figure routine processing]
Next, the details of the special figure routine process (step A9) in the special figure game process described above will be described.
As shown in FIG. 14, in the special figure normal processing, first, it is checked whether or not the special figure 3 hold number (second start memory number) is 0 (step A301).
When it is determined that the special figure 3 hold number is 0 (step A302; Yes), it is checked whether or not the special figure 1 hold number (first start memory number) is 0 (step A303).
Here, if it is determined that the special figure 1 hold number is 0 (step A304; Yes), it is checked whether or not the customer waiting demo has already started (step A305), and the customer waiting demo has not started. That is, if it is determined that the process has not been started (step A306; No), a process of saving the customer waiting demo flag in the customer waiting demo flag area (step A307) is performed.

Subsequently, a customer waiting demo command is prepared (step A308), and command setting processing (step A309) is performed.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step A305 that the customer waiting demo has already started (step A306; Yes), the customer waiting demo flag is already set during the customer waiting demo (step A307), and the customer waiting demo command is also prepared ( Step A308) and the command setting process (Step A309) are also executed, so the process proceeds to Step A310 without performing these processes.
Next, the special figure normal process transition setting process 1 (step A310) for preparing a table for shifting to the special figure normal process is performed, and the special figure normal process is ended.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step A302 that the special figure 3 hold count is not 0 (step A302; No), special figure 3 fluctuation start processing (step A311) is performed. After that, the special figure changing process transition setting process (step A312) of the special figure 3 for preparing a table for shifting to the special figure 3 changing process is performed, and the special figure usual process is finished.
If it is determined in step A304 that the special figure 1 hold count is not 0 (step A304; No), special figure 1 fluctuation start processing (step A313) is performed. Details of the special figure 1 fluctuation start process in step A313 will be described later.

Thereafter, the special-figure changing process transition setting process (step A314) of the special figure 1 is performed, and the special figure ordinary process is terminated. The details of the special-figure changing process transition setting process of special figure 1 in step A314 will be described later.
In this way, when the special figure 3 hold number in step A301 and step A302 is checked before the special figure 1 hold number check in steps A303 and A304, the special figure 3 hold number is not zero. The special figure 3 fluctuation start process (step A311) will be executed. That is, the second special figure variation display game is executed with priority over the first special figure variation display game.

[Special Figure 1 Change Start Processing]
Next, the details of the special figure 1 fluctuation start process (step A313) in the above-described special figure ordinary process will be described.
The special figure 1 fluctuation start process is a process performed at the start of the first special figure fluctuation display game. Specifically, as shown in FIG. The big hit flag 1 for determining whether or not the big hit flag 1 is set (step A321). Details of the big hit flag 1 setting process in step A321 will be described later.

Next, after performing the special figure 1 stop symbol setting process (step A322) related to the setting of the first special figure stop symbol (special figure 1 stop symbol), the first special figure stop symbol number (special figure 1 stop symbol number) ) Is saved in the output data area of the test signal (step A323). Details of the special figure 1 stop symbol setting process in step A322 will be described later.
Subsequently, after the stop symbol pattern information set in the special symbol 1 stop symbol setting process is loaded (step A324), the stop symbol pattern information is saved in the symbol information area for work of the RWM (step A325).

Next, the special figure 1 fluctuation flag is set and prepared (step A326), and the special figure 1 fluctuation flag is saved in the fluctuation symbol discrimination flag area of the RWM (step A327).
Thereafter, a table relating to the setting of the special figure second half fluctuation is prepared (step A328), and special figure information setting processing (step A329) for setting the special figure information is performed. Subsequently, among the variation modes in the first special figure variation display game, after performing the latter half variation pattern setting process (step A330) for setting the latter half variation pattern, the variation for setting the variation aspect of the first special figure variation display game. Pattern setting processing (step A331) is performed. Then, the fluctuation start information setting process (step A332) for setting the fluctuation start information of the first special figure is performed, and the special figure 1 fluctuation start process is ended.
Details of the change start information setting process in step A332 will be described later. The procedure of the special figure 3 fluctuation start process (step A311) in the special figure ordinary process is also the same as the special figure 1 fluctuation start process of FIG.

[Special figure 1 stop symbol setting process]
The special figure 1 stop symbol setting process in step A322 of the special figure 1 fluctuation start process of FIG. 15 is a process of setting a stop symbol in the first special figure fluctuation display game. As shown in FIG. It is checked whether 1 is a jackpot, that is, whether jackpot information is saved (step A381). If it is determined in this step A381 that it is a big hit (step A382: Yes), a process for setting the big hit symbol table of special figure 1 (step A383) is performed.

  Subsequently, the jackpot symbol random number is loaded from the random number saving area of the RWM (step A384), the stop symbol number corresponding to the jackpot symbol random number is obtained and prepared (step A385), and the special symbol 1 stop symbol area is obtained. The stop symbol number at the time of big hit is saved (step A386). After that, it is determined whether or not the power transmission is being supported (step S387), and if it is determined that the power transmission is being supported (Yes), a special figure 1 jackpot stop symbol information table is prepared with high probability. (Step S388).

If it is determined in step S387 that the power transmission support is not in progress (No), a special figure 1 big hit stop symbol information table at a low probability is prepared (step S389). Thereafter, in step S390, stop symbol information setting processing (step A390) for setting stop symbol information corresponding to the special symbol 1 stop symbol (big hit symbol) is performed, and the process proceeds to step A393.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S382 that the game is not a big hit (No), the process proceeds to step S391, and the stop symbol number at the time of loss is saved in the special symbol 1 stop symbol area of the RWM. Is saved in the symbol information area of the RWM, and the process proceeds to step A393.

In step A393, a process of setting a decoration special figure command table is performed. In the next step A394, a process of obtaining a decoration special figure 1 command (ACTION) as a symbol designation command corresponding to the symbol information which is parameter information. Then, a process for setting a decoration special figure command (MODE) (step A3965) is performed, and these commands are saved in the decoration special figure command area of the RWM (step A396). Then, the RWM jackpot symbol random number saving area is cleared to 0 (step A394), and the special symbol 1 stop symbol setting process is terminated.
The procedure of the special figure 3 stop symbol setting process performed in the special figure 3 variation start process (step A311) is the same as the special figure 1 stop symbol setting process of FIG.

[Variation start information setting process]
Next, the details of the change start information setting process (step A332) in the above-described special figure 1 change start process (FIG. 15) will be described.
As shown in FIG. 17, in the change start information setting process, first, a change symbol determination flag for determining whether the change is special figure 1 or special figure 3 is loaded (step A491). Then, a special decoration figure hold number command (MODE) corresponding to the variation symbol determination flag is prepared (step A492), and the address of the random number save area corresponding to the variation symbol determination flag of the RWM is set (step A493). Thereafter, the number of special figure hold corresponding to the variation symbol discrimination flag is subtracted (-1 updated) (step S494). Next, a special figure hold number command (ACTION) corresponding to the value of the special figure hold number corresponding to the variable symbol discrimination flag is prepared (step A495), and a command setting process (step A496) is performed.

  Thereafter, a command is prepared from the decoration special figure command area of the RWM (step A497), and command setting processing (step A498) is performed. Then, the target variation pattern random number save area is cleared to “0” (step S499), and the first half variation time value table corresponding to the first half variation number acquired in the variation pattern setting process is set (step A500). Further, a process (step A501) of acquiring a first half fluctuation time value corresponding to the first half fluctuation number obtained in the first half fluctuation pattern setting process is performed.

Subsequently, a process (step A502) for setting a second half fluctuation time value table corresponding to the subsequent fluctuation number acquired in the fluctuation pattern setting process is performed, and the second half fluctuation number acquired in the first half fluctuation pattern setting process is further set. Load (step S503), and perform processing (step A504) for obtaining the latter half variation time value corresponding to the latter half variation number. After that, the process of adding the first half variation time value and the second half variation time value (step A505) is performed, and then the addition value is saved in the special figure game process timer area (step A506).
Next, after calculating and preparing a fluctuation command (MODE) corresponding to the first half fluctuation number for designating the first half fluctuation pattern (step A507), the value of the second half fluctuation number for designating the second half fluctuation pattern is used as the fluctuation command (ACTION). Preparation (step A508) and command setting processing (step A509) are performed. The combination of the variation command (MODE) corresponding to the first variation number and the variation command (ACTION) corresponding to the second variation number corresponds to the variation pattern command described later. The designation command and the variation pattern command are collectively referred to as a variation command.

Thereafter, the random number saving area corresponding to the fluctuation symbol discrimination flag of the RWM is shifted (step A510), the empty area after the shift is cleared to “0”, and the fluctuation start information setting process is ended (step A511).
As described above, in the variation start information setting process of the present embodiment, after setting the special figure pending number command and the decorative special figure command as parameter information, the variation pattern is designated and the variation start is instructed. A variation pattern command is set as variation display start information. Therefore, the special figure pending number command is transmitted before the fluctuation pattern command is transmitted. That is, commands are transmitted in the order of special figure hold number command-decoration special figure command-variation pattern command.

[Special figure changing process]
Next, details of the special figure changing process (step A10) in the special figure game process (FIG. 13) will be described.
As shown in FIG. 18, in the special figure changing process, first, a special figure 3 fluctuation stop command (MODE, ACTION) for stopping the fluctuation of the decorative figure 3 is prepared (step A521). Next, it is determined whether or not the special figure 1 is changing (step A522). If it is determined that the special figure 1 is not changing (No), steps A523 to A524 are skipped and the process proceeds to step A525.
If it is determined in step S522 that the special figure 1 is changing (Yes), the process proceeds to step A523, and after preparing the special figure 1 change stop command (MODE, ACTION), the command setting process (step A524) is performed. Execute, and the process proceeds to Step A525. Note that the steps A521 to A524 are not necessary in the special figure changing process in the embodiment in which the stop command is not transmitted as in the embodiment described later.

In step A525, it is determined whether or not the symbol information determined based on the random number in the special symbol 1 stop symbol setting process (FIG. 16) is missing symbol information, and if it is determined that the symbol information is not missing symbol information (step A526: No), Since it is a big hit symbol, the process proceeds to step A531, and a special figure display time pointer is set when a special result mode is derived and a big hit is obtained.
If it is determined that the symbol information is off (step A526: Yes), the process proceeds to step S527 to check whether or not the second half variation number set in the second half variation pattern setting process is a number without reach. If it is determined that the latter half variation number is not a reachless number, that is, a reachable number (step A528; No), a special result mode is not derived in the special figure variation display game, and the result is out of place. Processing for setting the special figure display time pointer when the reach state occurs (step A530) is performed.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step A528 that the second half variation number is a non-reach number (Yes), the flow proceeds to step A529, and the special result mode is not derived in the special figure variation display game, and the special variation case is lost. Processing to set the figure display time pointer is performed.
Thereafter, the process proceeds to step A532, a special figure display time table is set, and a special figure display time corresponding to the special figure display time pointer set in any of steps A529, A530, A531 is acquired from the table ( Step A533) is performed. Here, the special figure display time at the time of losing is, for example, 600 ms, the special figure display time at the time of losing reach is, for example, 800 ms, and the special figure display time at the time of losing in the big hit is, for example, 3600 ms.
Then, a process for saving the acquired stop time in the special figure game process timer area (step A534) and a special figure display process transition setting for making preparations for transitioning to the special figure display process (such as setting a process number). The process (step A535) is executed, and the special figure changing process ends.

Next, the control executed by the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 311 of the effect control device 300 will be described.
The control process by the main control microcomputer 311 includes a 1st main process shown in FIG. 19 and a command reception interrupt process shown in FIG. 20 performed every predetermined time (for example, every 2 msec). In the first main process, the entire program is controlled.

[1st main processing]
First, the 1st main process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 19, in the 1st main process, first, a process for prohibiting interruption (step B1) is performed, then a process for clearing the RAM to 0 (step B2) is performed, and an initialization process for the 1st CPU 311 (step B3). )I do.
Next, processing for setting an initial value in the RAM (step B4) is performed, and random number initialization processing (step B5) is performed. Thereafter, processing for starting various interrupt timers (step B6) is performed, and interrupts are permitted (step B7). Thereafter, the main control microcomputer 311 performs main loop processing steps B8 to B18.

In this main loop process, first, a process (step B8) for clearing the watch dog timer (WDT) is performed. Then, an input process from the effect button SW25a (step B9) is performed, and a game control command analysis process (step B10) is performed.
In this game control command analysis process, it is determined whether or not a command related to a game transmitted from the game control apparatus 100 has been correctly received. If the command has been correctly received, a process for determining the command is performed. One command transmitted from the game control device 100 is composed of a pair of data of a first command (MODE) and a second command (ACTION).
Then, when the combination of the received first command (MODE) and the second command (ACTION) is not inconsistent (for example, when received in the order of MODE → ACTION), it is determined that the command is correctly received, and the first command (MODE) ) And the second command (ACTION) are inconsistent (for example, when received in the order of ACTION → ACTION or in the order of MODE → MODE → MODE), it is determined that the command reception is abnormal. .

Subsequently, after performing a test mode process (step B11), a scene control process (step B12) for performing a process related to the special figure variation display game is performed.
Next, a gaming machine error monitoring process (step B13) for monitoring the occurrence of errors such as opening of the front frame (inner frame) 12 and the glass frame 15, an effect command editing process (step B14) for effects in a special figure variation display game, Sound control processing (step B15) which is processing related to audio output (drive processing of speakers 19a and 19b), decoration control processing (step B16) which is processing related to control of the frame decoration device 18 provided on the front frame 12, center Details of the motor / SOL control processing (step B17) related to the control of the board effect motor / SOL control circuit 334 for driving the accessory provided in the case 40, the variation mode (variation pattern) of the decoration special figure variation display game, etc. Perform random number update processing (step B18) to update the random number to be determined and clear the watchdog timer That the process returns to (step B8).

[Command reception interrupt processing]
Next, command reception interrupt processing will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 20, in this command reception interrupt process, first, a process (step B21) for capturing the port value of the command transmitted from the game control device 100 is performed. Then, it is determined whether or not the MODE command is waiting (step B22).
If the MODE command is waiting (step B22; Yes), it is further determined whether or not the data strobe signal SSTB is ON (step B23), and the data strobe signal SSTB is ON. If there is (Step B23; Yes), it is determined whether or not the received command is a MODE command (Step B24).

If the received command is a MODE command (step B24; Yes), a process of calculating the address of the command buffer corresponding to the reception pointer (step B25) is performed, and the command is set as a MODE command at the calculated address. A process of saving (step B26) is performed.
Subsequently, an initial value is set in the timeout monitoring timer, a process for starting the timer (step B27) is performed, a process for setting an ACTION command waiting state (step B28) is performed, and the command reception interrupt process is terminated. .
If it is determined in step B23 that the data strobe signal SSTB is not ON (No), or if it is determined in step B24 that the received command is not a MODE command (No), the timeout monitoring timer is stopped. Processing (step B37) is performed, processing for setting the MODE command waiting state is performed (step B38), and the command reception interrupt processing is terminated.

In Step B22, when the MODE command is not waiting, that is, when the ACTION command is waiting (Step B22; No), it is determined whether or not the timeout monitoring timer has timed out (Step B29).
If the time-out has not occurred (step B29; No), it is determined whether or not the data strobe signal SSTB is ON (step B30), and the data strobe signal SSTB is ON (Yes). ), It is determined whether or not the received command is a MODE command (step B31).

If the received command is not a MODE command (step B31; No), processing for calculating the address of the command buffer corresponding to the reception pointer (step B32) is performed, and the command is saved as an ACTION command at the calculated address. The process (step B33) to perform is performed.
Subsequently, after the process of updating the number of received commands by +1 (step B34), the process of stopping the timeout monitoring timer (step B37) is performed, and the process of setting the MODE command waiting state (step B38) is performed. To complete the command reception interrupt process.

If a time-out (Yes) occurs in step B29, or if the data strobe signal SSTB is not ON in step B30 (step B30; No), the process proceeds to step B35, and the command corresponding to the reception pointer. Processing for calculating the buffer address (step B35) is performed, and processing for discarding the MODE command saved in the command buffer at the calculated address (step B36) is performed.
Then, processing for stopping the timeout monitoring timer (step B37) is performed, processing for setting the MODE command waiting state (step B38) is performed, and the command reception interrupt processing is terminated. If it is determined in step B31 that the received command is a MODE command (Yes), the process proceeds to step B25, and the subsequent processing is performed.

Next, 2nd main processing executed by the 2nd CPU 312 of the effect control device 300 will be described.
Control processing by the 2nd CPU 312 includes a 2nd main process shown in FIG. 21 and a V blank interrupt process shown in FIG. 23 performed every predetermined time (for example, every 2 msec).

[2nd main processing]
First, the 2nd main process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 21, in the 2nd main process, first, the initialization process of the 2ndCPU 312 (step B41) is performed, and then the process of clearing the RAM to 0 (step B42) is performed.
Next, processing for setting an initial value in the RAM (step B43) is performed, and initialization processing for the VDP 313 (step B44) is performed. Thereafter, processing for permitting various interrupts (step B45) is performed, and initialization processing for various control processing (step B46) is performed.

Next, after processing for permitting image drawing by the VDP 313 (step B47), processing for clearing the system cycle waiting flag set in the V blank interrupt processing described later (step B48) is performed.
If the system cycle wait flag is not “1” (step B49; No), the process of step B49 is repeated until the system cycle wait flag is set in the V blank interrupt process.
On the other hand, when the system cycle wait flag is “1” (step B49; Yes), a process (step B50) for clearing the watchdog timer (WDT) is performed, a normal game process (step B51) is performed, and a step B48 is performed. Return to.

[Normal game processing]
Next, the details of the normal game process (step B51) in the 2nd main process described above will be described.
As shown in FIG. 22, in the normal game process, first, a process of checking a command received from the game control device 100 (step B61) is performed.
Subsequently, background processing (step B62), reel control / display processing (step B63), hold display processing (step B64), customer waiting demonstration processing (step B65), scene control / display processing (step B66), display system processing (Step B67) is performed, and the normal game process is terminated.

[V blank interrupt processing]
Next, the V blank interrupt process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
The V blank interrupt process shown in FIG. 23 is started when a periodic V blank interrupt signal is input to the 2nd CPU 312 every 16.6 ms (1/2 of the frame period 33 ms), for example.
When the V blank interrupt process is started, first, a process of updating the value of the frame counter by +1 (step B71) is performed, and it is determined whether or not the value of the frame counter is equal to or greater than a specified value (step B72).
Here, when the value of the frame counter is less than the specified value (step B72; No), the V blank interrupt process is terminated, and when the value of the frame counter is equal to or larger than the specified value (step B72; Yes), the process goes to step B73. It is determined whether the system cycle wait flag is “0” (step B73).

If it is determined in step B73 that the system cycle wait flag is not “0” (No), the V blank interrupt process is terminated, and if it is determined that the system cycle wait flag is “0” (Yes), The process proceeds to step B74, and it is determined whether the drawing that the VDP 313 displays on the display device 41 is completed (step B74).
If it is determined in step B74 that the VDP 313 has not completed drawing (No), the V blank interrupt process is terminated. If the VDP 313 determines that drawing has been completed (Yes), the process proceeds to step B75. A process of switching the display frame buffer is performed, and the drawing start to the display frame buffer switched to the VDP 313 is instructed (step B76). By setting the specified value to “2”, for example, it is possible to basically switch frames once every two V blank interrupts.
Next, after performing processing (stop B77) for setting a VDP drawing flag indicating that VDP 313 has started drawing (step B77), processing for clearing the frame counter to 0 (step B78), and setting the system cycle wait flag to “1” (Step B79) are sequentially performed, and the V blank interrupt process is terminated.

Next, the error notification control executed by the effect control device 300 when an error (including fraud) is detected and detected in the gaming machine of the above embodiment will be described with reference to the timing charts of FIGS. explain.
In the following description, the error may be detected by either the game control device 100 or the effect control device 300. When an error is detected in the game control apparatus 100, the effect control apparatus 300 can be notified by a command. Further, the “volume SW” is set by either a volume adjusting means (input operation unit 25 in the above embodiment) provided on the front side of the gaming machine or a volume setting unit 46 provided on the back side of the gaming machine. It may be what was done.

  FIG. 26 shows the timing in the first embodiment of the error notification control. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 26, for example, it is assumed that an error has occurred in a state where, for example, “volume SW” is set to, for example, the fourth level “4” among the five levels (excluding 0) (timing) t1). Then, at the frame update timing t2 of the display device 41, an error sound start command is transmitted to the sound source LSI 314, and an abnormality notification sound (hereinafter referred to as an error notification sound) with a volume of the maximum level “5” out of five levels from the speaker. Is output. Note that the error notification sound may differ depending on the type of error or fraud, or one sound may be used in common.

If the error is resolved, an error sound stop command is transmitted to the sound source LSI 314 at the frame update timing t5 immediately after the timing t4 when the error is resolved, and the loudness of the speaker is changed from the maximum level to the set level (the first level before the error occurs). 4 levels). In this embodiment, even if “Volume SW” is operated and the volume level is changed during the error occurrence period T1 (timing t3), the operation is invalidated and the error is corrected after the error is resolved. The setting level (fourth level) before the occurrence is restored.
On the other hand, when the volume level is changed by operating the “volume SW” after the error is resolved, the volume setting command is transmitted to the sound source LSI 314 at the frame update timing t7 immediately after the changed timing t6, and the volume of the speaker is set. Is changed to the designated level (the first level “1” in the figure).

  Even if the volume of the speaker is set to a level lower than the maximum level by the volume SW when an error occurs in either the game control device 100 or the production control device 300 by performing the control as described above, An error notification sound with the maximum volume is output. Therefore, for example, even if the fraudster performs fraud after turning down the volume of the speaker before cheating, if an error is detected, an error notification sound with the maximum volume is output, and an error (unauthorized) ) Can be promptly recognized. In addition, when an error occurs or ends, the game effect sound and the error notification sound are switched at the frame update timing, so the game effect sound that has been output in synchronization with the fluctuation display until then is suddenly switched to the error sound. Thus, it can be avoided that the game effect sound is restored regardless of the timing of the change display and the player is given a sense of incongruity.

  From the above description, in the above embodiment, the speaker capable of outputting the game effect sound, the display device capable of variably displaying the identification information, and the volume of the game effect sound output from the speaker by a predetermined setting operation. A changeable volume setting means, a game control means for managing the progress of the game, and a game effect for controlling display on the display device and outputting to the speaker based on a control command signal from the game control means In the gaming machine provided with the effect control means for controlling the sound, the effect control device as the effect control means stores the drawing data to be displayed on the display device in a frame buffer and has a predetermined frame update timing. Display data that can be generated and output by the display device based on the drawing data stored in the frame buffer. And an abnormality detecting means for detecting that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine based on a predetermined event, and having a function of controlling the output volume of the speaker based on the setting by the volume setting means. If an abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection means, the abnormality notification sound is output at a predetermined volume that is not based on the setting by the volume setting means in synchronization with the display frame update timing on the display device. It can be seen that the invention includes more output.

According to this invention, when an abnormality is detected, the abnormality notification is performed at a predetermined volume regardless of the setting by the volume setting means. Therefore, even if the volume setting means sets a relatively low volume, By notifying by volume, it is possible to reliably recognize that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine and to output the abnormality notification sound in synchronization with the display of the display device, so that abnormality notification without a sense of incongruity can be performed it can.
Note that the abnormality notification sound may be output for a predetermined time based on detection of the occurrence of abnormality by the abnormality detection means. For example, the production control device may start the abnormality notification based on receiving a command indicating the occurrence of abnormality from the game control device, and end the abnormality notification after a predetermined time has elapsed.

FIG. 27 shows the timing in the modified example of the error notification control of the first embodiment shown in FIG. In this modified example, as in the first embodiment, if an error occurs, an error notification sound with a maximum volume is output. If the error is eliminated, the sound volume is restored from the maximum level to the set level (the fourth level) before the error occurrence at the frame update timing t5 immediately after the timing t4 when the error is eliminated.
The difference from the embodiment of FIG. 26 is that, in the embodiment of FIG. 26, the error notification sound is output at the frame update timing t2 immediately after the timing at which the error occurs, whereas in this modified example, when an error occurs, the timing is If the error notification sound is output immediately at t1 and the “volume SW” is operated during the error occurrence period T1 and the volume level is changed to a lower one, the operation is invalidated but an error is occurring. When the volume level is changed to a higher one, the volume is switched to the changed volume after the error is resolved.

According to this modification, when an error occurs, the error notification sound can be immediately output to notify the occurrence of the error, while when the error notification sound ends, regardless of the timing of the fluctuation display. It can be avoided that the game effect sound is restored and the player feels uncomfortable. Further, when the volume level is changed to a higher level even when an error occurs, the volume level is switched after the error is resolved, so that the volume adjustment to the higher level unrelated to fraud can be reflected.
In addition, regarding the operation of changing the volume level performed during the occurrence of the error to a lower level, the volume may be switched to the changed volume after the error is resolved.

  Therefore, the effect control device as the effect control means in the above modification includes an abnormality elimination detection means for detecting that the abnormality of the gaming machine has been eliminated, and the abnormality elimination detection means detects that the abnormality of the gaming machine has been eliminated. In the case of being output, the output of the abnormality notification sound being output is stopped in synchronization with the frame update timing of the display on the display device, and the volume is set by the volume setting means during the output of the abnormality notification sound. When a setting operation is performed to lower the volume before starting the output, the volume change based on the setting operation is invalidated and the volume is not changed, while the abnormality notification sound is being output. When the setting operation is performed in the volume setting means to make the volume higher than the volume before the output of the abnormality notification sound, the volume change based on the setting operation is suspended, and the abnormality report At the timing when the sound is stopped, so that the change in volume based on the setting operation in the output of the abnormality notification sound.

  As described above, when it is detected that the abnormality of the gaming machine has been resolved, the notification by the abnormality notification sound is stopped in synchronization with the display of the display device, so that the abnormality notification is returned to the game effect sound. Can be performed without a sense of incongruity. In addition, the setting operation to increase the volume is enabled during the abnormality notification, and the volume is changed at the timing when the abnormality notification ends, so that when the player hears a large abnormality notification sound, When the user notices that the sound is low and wants to increase the volume and operates the volume setting means, the request can be immediately reflected. In addition, the setting operation to decrease the volume is invalidated during the abnormality notification, so the player hears a large abnormality notification sound and mistakenly decreases the volume, and when the abnormality is resolved, the game effect sound cannot be heard. It is possible to prevent such an inconvenient situation from occurring.

FIG. 28 shows the timing of error notification control executed by the effect control device 300 when an error occurs during the execution of the variable display game. In FIG. 28, the execution period of one variation display game is from timing t11 when the effect control device 300 receives the variation start command (variation pattern command) to timing t15 when the variation stop command is received.
As shown in FIG. 28, in this embodiment, during the execution of the variable display game, the variable sound is reproduced by the channel 1, and for example, the warning sound that is output in the case of performing an effect such as a continuous warning is output other than the channels 1 and n. Play on the channel. If an error occurs at timing t12 after the start of fluctuation, an error sound start command is transmitted to the tone generator LSI 314. Then, the tone generator LSI 314 lowers the volume of the channels 1 to (n−1) other than the channel n reserved for the error notification sound to a level such as “0” or “1”, for example, to the channel n. The phrase data of the error notification sound is supplied and the volume of the channel is set to the maximum level among the five levels, and is output from the speaker in synchronization with the frame switching timing of the display device.
If the error is eliminated at timing t14, an error sound stop command is transmitted to the sound source LSI 314 in synchronization with the display frame switching timing, and the output of the error notification sound at the maximum level is stopped and set in advance. Output of fluctuating sound is resumed at the level.

With the above control, when an error occurs, an error notification sound with the maximum volume can be output from the speaker without interrupting the reproduction of the fluctuating sound. Moreover, the output of the game effect sound can be restarted promptly without causing a deviation from the contents of the fluctuation display after the error is eliminated. Note that by setting the phrase data of channel n to be supplied to all the speakers 19a and 19b, an error notification sound can be output from all the speakers.
In addition, a start winning may occur during the execution of the variable display game. In this case, a start winning command (holding number command) is transmitted. Normally, when the production control device 300 receives the command, a start winning sound is output. However, as shown in FIG. 28, when a start winning command is received during the occurrence of an error, the channel to which the start winning sound is assigned is reproduced at a volume of “0”, so that the start winning sound is apparently heard from the speaker. It is not output.

  Therefore, the effect control device as the effect control means in the embodiment includes an abnormality elimination detection means for detecting that an abnormality occurring in the gaming machine has been eliminated, and has a plurality of channels for outputting to a speaker, The volume can be set for each of a plurality of channels, and different phrase data for each channel can be reproduced and output simultaneously. The phrase data relating to the alarm notification sound is assigned to one channel, and the one channel When the phrase data relating to the game effect sound is assigned to a channel different from the above, and when the abnormality detecting means has not detected the occurrence of the abnormality and the abnormality eliminating detecting means has detected that the abnormality of the gaming machine has been resolved, The phrase data of the channel to which the game effect sound is assigned is set by the volume setting means. When the occurrence of an abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection means, the phrase data of the channel to which the abnormality notification sound is assigned is reproduced, and the channel effect sound is assigned to the channel to which the game effect sound is assigned. Without stopping playback of phrase data, the volume is reduced and output.

FIG. 29 shows an example of the setting state of the volume level of each channel in the sound source LSI 314 during normal game and abnormal (error) occurrence. Of these, FIG. 29A shows a setting during normal gaming, and FIG. 29B shows a setting during occurrence of an abnormality (error).
In the example shown in FIG. 29A, during a normal game, a fluctuating sound is assigned to channel 1, the volume level is set to “3” in five stages, and a start winning sound is assigned to channel 2. The volume level is set to “4”, the fluctuation stop sound is assigned to channel 3, the volume level is set to “4”, the error sound is assigned to channel n, and the volume level is set to “0”. Is done. FIG. 29B shows that when an abnormality (error) occurs, the volume level of the phrase sound other than channel n is set to “0”, and the volume level of the error sound assigned to channel n is the maximum level. "5".

FIG. 30 shows the timing of error notification control executed by the effect control device 300 during the RAM clear operation immediately after the power is turned on.
In the gaming machine of this embodiment, as described above, when the initialization switch in the power supply device 400 is turned on, RAM initialization processing is performed (step S9 in FIG. 8, steps S24 and S25 in FIG. 9). Conventionally, during the RAM clear operation (several tens of seconds) by the initialization switch signal, the effect control device 300 outputs an error notification sound at the maximum volume. During the RAM clear operation, the signal from the volume adjustment switch is invalidated. Therefore, in order to adjust the volume, the volume adjustment switch has to be operated after the RAM clear operation is finished.

In this embodiment, the volume can be adjusted even during the RAM clear operation. However, if the volume can be adjusted unconditionally, an error notification sound will be output if a person trying to cheat turns the initialization switch on and operates the volume control switch to lower the volume. There is a risk that fraud will not be detected.
Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 30, when the volume adjustment switch (volume SW) is operated during the RAM clear operation, the setting by the volume adjustment switch is made effective only for a certain time T0, and the effect control device 300 outputs an error notification sound at a volume corresponding to the set level (t21 to t22). When a certain time T0 has elapsed, at least the certain time T0 (t22 to t23), the error notification sound is output at the maximum volume. The time for outputting the error notification sound at the volume corresponding to the set level during the RAM clear operation may not be the same as the time T0 for outputting the error notification sound at the maximum volume.

According to the present embodiment, it is possible to adjust the volume while listening to the level of the sound generated even during the RAM clear operation, which has conventionally been a simple waiting time. Also, the error notification sound is output at the set level by the volume adjustment switch for a certain time T0, and when that time elapses, the sound volume returns to the maximum volume, so that a person trying to cheat turns on the initialization switch (by this Even if the RAM clear operation is started) and the volume control switch is operated to lower the volume to “0”, the error notification sound that informs that the RAM clear operation is in progress after the predetermined time T0 has passed. Since it is output, fraud can be easily detected.
In addition, it is possible to check the volume level adjusted by the operation and setting operation of the volume setting means without waiting for the completion of the initialization process executed after the power is turned on. Can be finished in time.
The volume adjustment switch in this embodiment may be a volume setting unit 46 provided on the back side of the gaming machine, or a switch such as the input operation unit 25 provided on the front side of the gaming machine. Also good.

Therefore, the game control device as the game control means in the above embodiment has a RAM as a storage means capable of storing various data even when a backup power is supplied and a power failure occurs, and the storage contents of the storage means are normal when the power is turned on. If the stored content is determined not to be normal, the stored content is initialized, and a control command for outputting an initialization notification sound indicating that the stored content is output by the speaker is transmitted. An effect control device as an effect control means that outputs the initialization notification sound based on receiving a control command for outputting the initialization notification sound, If a setting operation for changing the volume is performed during the output of the initialization notification sound, the output volume of the speaker is changed to a volume based on the setting operation. To become.
In addition, when the setting operation for changing the volume is performed in the volume setting unit during the output of the initialization notification sound, the production control device as the production control unit in the above-described embodiment is the one after the setting operation is performed. Only during a predetermined period, the output volume of the speaker is changed to a volume based on the setting operation.

In FIG. 31, when the volume SW (volume control switch: input operation unit 25) on the front side of the gaming machine is operated during the game, the effect control device 300 controls the volume of the speaker according to the operation speed of the switch. The timing of such an embodiment is shown.
In this embodiment, when the switch SW is operated at a high speed as in the case where the volume SW is continuously operated, when the state where the selection time of each volume level is shorter than a predetermined time set in advance, The volume is set to a level that is higher than the level corresponding to the number of times the button has been operated. On the other hand, if the selection time of each volume level is longer than the predetermined time, the volume is set to the set level. It is.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 31, when the variable display game is started at the timing t32 while the volume SW is continuously operated, the selection time T11 for each volume level in the period T1, If T12 and T13 are shorter than the predetermined time, the volume of the speaker is controlled by setting the volume to a level one higher than the level actually selected last by the volume SW ("4" in the figure). Further, as shown in the period T2 of FIG. 31, when the volume SW is continuously operated, the selection time T21 by the first operation is shorter than the predetermined time, but the selection time T22 by the subsequent operation is shorter than the predetermined time. If it is too long, the expectation control is not performed, and the volume of the speaker is controlled by setting the volume at the level actually set and operated.

  By performing volume control as described above, a player who wants to increase the volume quickly operates the switch quickly, so by detecting it and setting it to a higher volume, the desired volume level can be reached in a short time. be able to. Also, since the player who wants to change the volume only a little operates the switch slowly, without setting the prospect control, the volume of the speaker is controlled by setting the volume at the level actually set and operated. The game effect sound can be output at the volume level desired by the player. Note that the selection times T12 and T13 may be compared, and the volume may be set one level higher on the condition that T13 is shorter than T12. Thereby, the operation by the player who wants to increase the volume quickly can be specified more reliably.

  32 and 33 show how the volume control is performed by the effect control device 300 in the embodiment in which volume control switches as volume setting means are provided on the front side and the back side of the gaming machine, respectively. 32 and 33, “volume SW” means volume setting means 46 on the back side of the gaming machine, and “effect SW” means volume control switch (input operation unit 25) on the front side of the gaming machine. Yes. In this embodiment, the “volume SW” is assumed to be a switch such as a slide switch, where the set volume level is fixed unless operated, that is, the volume level is determined in a physical state. On the other hand, “effect SW” is assumed to be a switch in which the set volume level changes from the default value according to the number of operations, that is, the level is relatively determined. In FIG. 32 and FIG. 33, “display device” in parentheses after “effect SW” means that the volume level displayed on the display device is indicated.

In this embodiment, after the power is turned on, the volume control switch (volume setting means 46) on the back side of the gaming machine is operated until the “effect SW” that is the volume control switch on the front side of the gaming machine is operated for the first time. The setting of the “volume SW” is given priority, and once the “effect SW” is operated, the operation of the “effect SW” is given priority.
FIG. 32 shows a specific state of the control. In FIG. 32, a period T3 before timing t42 is a period in which the setting of “volume SW” is valid, and a period T4 after timing t42 is a period in which the operation of “effect SW” is valid. If the volume SW is operated and the volume level is changed from “2” to “4” at the timing t41 in the period T3, the setting is reflected in the output volume level of the speaker, and the effect control apparatus 300 has the volume level “4”. To control the output of the game effect sound. In addition, the setting change of “volume SW” is reflected in the display of the volume level on the display device 41 (see period T5).

Further, if the effect SW is operated at the timing t42 in FIG. 32 and the volume level is changed from “4” to “2”, the effect control device 300 outputs the game effect sound at the volume level “2”. Control.
In this embodiment, the speaker output volume level ("maximum value" in FIG. 32) is set to the maximum volume or the default value by the program immediately after the power is turned on, as in the period from t43 to t44 in FIG. , Outputs a sound indicating that the system is starting up. Then, at a timing t44 when a predetermined time has passed, the volume level is changed to “4” in FIG. 32 according to the setting of the volume SW.
As described above, until the first operation SW is operated after the power is turned on, priority is given to the setting of the volume SW, so that the volume level set for each gaming machine by the player during the previous day's operation is set apart. It can be cleared so that the speakers of all gaming machines output at the same volume when the store is opened.

Therefore, the effect control means as the effect control means in the above embodiment sets the volume of the game effect sound output from the speaker when the power is turned on by the volume setting device (volume SW) as the first sound volume setting means. When the setting operation is performed by the input operation unit 25 (effect SW) as the second volume setting means after the power is turned on, based on the setting by the second volume setting means. Output at volume.
As a result, the volume does not differ for each gaming machine when the power is turned on, so that the staff of the game store does not need to return the volume to a predetermined volume when the power is turned on. In addition, the player can select his / her favorite volume and can play the game in a comfortable gaming environment.

Further, in the present embodiment in which volume setting means are provided on the front side and the back side of the gaming machine, when the RAM data is normal and when the RAM data is abnormal in the RAM data inspection at power-on, The setting of the output volume level of the speaker is changed. In order to enable such control, backup power is supplied to the RAM of the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) in the effect control device, and the volume level immediately before the power-off set by the effect SW is stored and held. It has become.
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 33, when the RAM data is normal, after the power is turned on, the volume level (“4” in FIG. 33) set by the effect SW immediately before the power is turned off is set. If the RAM data is abnormal, the volume level set by the volume SW (“3” in FIG. 33) is set after power-on.

This makes it possible to determine whether fraud has been performed from the volume of the speaker after power-on. Although not shown in FIG. 33, as in FIG. 32, once the power is turned on, the speaker output volume level is set to the maximum volume or the default value by the program, and then depending on whether the RAM is normal or abnormal. The volume level may be controlled to change to the setting of the effect SW or the setting of the volume SW.
Further, when a power failure occurs during the game, it is not necessary to reset the volume level, and the game can be performed at the volume level set before the power is turned off after the power failure is restored.

Therefore, the effect control means as the effect control means in the above embodiment stores the volume value set by the input operation unit 25 (effect SW) as the second sound volume setting means while the power is shut off. If the storage means is initialized when the power is turned on, the volume of the game effect sound output from the speaker is set by the volume setting device (volume SW) as the first volume setting means. If the RAM as the storage means is not initialized when the power is turned on, the sound is output at the volume based on the volume value stored in the storage means.
As a result, the attendant at the amusement store can determine whether or not fraud has been performed from the volume of the speaker after the power is turned on. In addition, when the data in the RAM as the storage means is normal when the power is turned on, the volume is stored in the storage means. A gaming environment can be maintained.

FIG. 34 shows a method of volume control by the effect control device 300 when a volume control signal is input from the information collection terminal device 410 (game hall management device 600) to the gaming machine of the above embodiment. . In FIG. 34, “Volume SW” may be either the volume setting device 46 on the back side of the gaming machine or the volume control switch (input operation unit 25) on the front side of the gaming machine.
In this embodiment, the volume control signal is set at the timing t0 in a state where the volume control means “volume SW” is set to the fourth level “4” out of the five levels (excluding 0). Is input (changed to high level), the production control device 300 transmits a “volume restriction command” from the 1st CPU 311 to the sound source LSI 314 at the frame update timing t1 immediately after that. Then, the output volume level of the speakers 19a and 19b is changed from “4” to “0”, and volume regulation is started.

If an error occurs during the volume restriction control as shown at timing t2 in FIG. 34, an “error sound start command” is transmitted from the 1st CPU 311 to the tone generator LSI 314 at the frame update timing t3 immediately after that. Then, the output volume level of the speakers 19a and 19b is changed from “0” to the maximum level “5”, and the output of the error sound is started at the maximum volume. During this error sound output period T1, the operation of lowering the volume by “volume SW” is invalidated. That is, the control command is not transmitted to the sound source LSI 314 even if the “volume SW” is operated in the direction of decreasing the volume as at the timing t4. However, the operation to increase the volume is valid.
When the error state is recovered, an “error sound stop command” is transmitted from the 1st CPU 311 to the sound source LSI 314 at the frame update timing t6 immediately after the recovery timing t5. Then, the output volume level of the speakers 19a and 19b is changed from “5” to “0”, and the output of the error sound is stopped.

After that, if the volume restriction signal disappears, that is, changes from the high level to the low level as at timing t7, the “volume restriction end command” is transmitted from the 1st CPU 311 to the sound source LSI 314 at the immediately following frame update timing t8. Then, the output volume level of the speakers 19a and 19b is changed from “0” to the original “4”, and the volume restriction is ended. The effect control device 300 controls to output the game effect sound at the volume level “4”.
Then, when the volume restriction ends, when “volume SW” is operated in a direction to lower the volume as in timing t9, the set volume level (in FIG. 34, “ 1 "), the speakers 19a and 19b output a sound having a level corresponding to" 1 "after setting.

As described above, in the gaming machine of this embodiment, the volume of the speaker is set to “0” when the volume restriction signal is input from the information collection terminal device 410 (game hall management device 600). Even when the volume is being regulated, an error notification sound is output at the maximum volume when an error occurs, so that a store clerk or player at the game hall can recognize that the error has occurred. Further, since the start and end of volume control and the start and end of error notification are each performed at the frame update timing, there is an advantage that the player does not feel uncomfortable (displacement between display and sound). The end of error notification is synchronized with the frame update, but the error notification start may be immediately performed without being synchronized with the frame update as indicated by a dotted line. Thereby, when an error occurs, it can be immediately notified.
Note that the control shown in FIG. 34 can also be executed in combination with the control shown in FIGS. 26 to 28 and FIGS. 30 to 33 described above.

From the above description, in the above embodiment, the speaker capable of outputting the game effect sound, the display device capable of variably displaying the identification information, and the volume of the game effect sound output from the speaker by a predetermined setting operation. A changeable volume setting means, a game control means for managing the progress of the game, and a game effect for controlling display on the display device and outputting to the speaker based on a control command signal from the game control means In a gaming machine equipped with production control means for controlling sound,
The production control means includes
Drawing data to be displayed on the display device is stored in a frame buffer, and display data that can be displayed on the display device is generated based on the drawing data stored in the frame buffer when a predetermined frame update timing is reached Output control means, abnormality detection means for detecting that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine based on a predetermined event, abnormality elimination detection means for detecting that the abnormality has been resolved, A volume restriction signal receiving means for receiving a volume restriction signal transmitted from the outside,
The game effect output from the speaker has a function of controlling the output volume of the speaker based on the setting by the volume setting means, and the volume restriction signal receiving means receives the volume restriction signal. The volume of the sound is set to a predetermined first volume that is not based on the setting of the volume setting means,
When the occurrence of an abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection means, it is larger than the first volume that is not based on the setting by the volume setting means, regardless of whether or not the predetermined first volume is set. An abnormality notification sound is output from the speaker in synchronization with the frame update timing at a predetermined second volume, and when the abnormality elimination detecting means detects that the abnormality has been resolved, the abnormality notification sound is output. It can be seen that the present invention includes an invention that is stopped in synchronization with the frame update timing.

According to this invention, when an abnormality is detected, the abnormality notification is performed at a predetermined volume regardless of the setting by the volume setting means, so that the output of the speaker is set to a relatively low volume by the volume setting means. Even so, by notifying at a predetermined volume, it is possible to reliably recognize that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine, and because the abnormality notification sound is output in synchronization with the display of the display device, Abnormality notification without a sense of incongruity can be performed.
In addition, when it is detected that the abnormality of the gaming machine has been resolved, the notification by the abnormality notification sound is stopped in synchronization with the display of the display device, so that the return from the abnormality notification to the game effect sound is not uncomfortable. It can be carried out.
Furthermore, by outputting a volume control signal from a management device (hall computer) or the like provided outside the gaming machine, the volume of the gaming machine can be lowered all at once, and an emergency announcement notifying the occurrence of a disaster, etc. When notified, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the player misses the emergency announcement by the game effect sound.

Further, in the above embodiment, the speaker capable of outputting game effect sound, the display device capable of variably displaying the identification information, and the volume of the game effect sound output from the speaker can be changed by a predetermined setting operation. Volume control means, game control means for managing the progress of the game, and control of display on the display device based on a control command signal from the game control means, and control of game effect sound output to the speaker In a game machine equipped with production control means for performing
The production control means includes
Drawing data to be displayed on the display device is stored in a frame buffer, and display data that can be displayed on the display device is generated based on the drawing data stored in the frame buffer when a predetermined frame update timing is reached Output control means, abnormality detection means for detecting that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine based on a predetermined event, abnormality elimination detection means for detecting that the abnormality has been resolved, A volume restriction signal receiving means for receiving a volume restriction signal transmitted from the outside,
The game effect output from the speaker has a function of controlling the output volume of the speaker based on the setting by the volume setting means, and the volume restriction signal receiving means receives the volume restriction signal. The volume of the sound is set to a predetermined first volume that is not based on the setting of the volume setting means,
When the occurrence of an abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection means, it is larger than the first volume that is not based on the setting by the volume setting means, regardless of whether or not the predetermined first volume is set. It can be seen that the present invention includes an invention in which an abnormality notification sound is output from the speaker at a predetermined second volume regardless of the frame update timing.

According to this invention, when an abnormality is detected, the abnormality notification is performed at a predetermined volume regardless of the setting by the volume setting means, so that the output of the speaker is set to a relatively low volume by the volume setting means. Even if the occurrence of abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection means, it is possible to reliably recognize that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine by notifying at a predetermined volume. Since the output is made from the speaker regardless of the frame update timing, it is possible to immediately notify that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine.
In addition, by outputting a volume control signal from a management device (hall computer) or the like provided outside the gaming machine, the volume of the gaming machine can be lowered all at once, and an emergency announcement notifying the occurrence of a disaster, etc. When notified, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the player misses the emergency announcement due to the game effect sound.

FIG. 35 and FIG. 36 show another embodiment of volume control by the effect control device 300 in an embodiment in which volume control switches as volume setting means are provided on the front side and the back side of the gaming machine, respectively. In FIG. 35, as in the case of FIGS. 32 and 33, “volume SW” means volume setting means 46 on the back side of the gaming machine, and “effect SW” is a volume control switch (on the front side of the gaming machine). This means the input operation unit 25).
Also, in FIG. 35, “display SW” followed by “display device” in parentheses means that an image representing the volume level displayed on display device 41 on the front side of the gaming machine is displayed. FIG. 36 shows a display image example of the volume level in the display device 41.

  In this embodiment, the volume level can be set by operating the “effect SW” on the front side, with the “volume SW” setting as the volume control switch (volume setting unit 46) on the back side of the gaming machine as the upper limit. It is. When the volume setting unit 46 is validated or the setting is changed, the volume level as shown in FIG. 36 is displayed on the display device 41. Even when the volume setting mode is set by operating the effect button 25a and the select button 25b of the input operation unit 25, the volume level as shown in FIG. 36 is displayed. In this display of the volume level, if the display according to the setting state of the “volume SW” which is the volume setting device 46, that is, if the setting of the volume setting device 46 at that time is “4”, for example, FIG. As shown in FIG. 36A, if the maximum volume level is displayed so that it is understood that the maximum volume level is “4”, and the setting of the volume setting unit 46 is “3”, for example, It is displayed so that it can be seen that the volume level is up to “3”.

Next, a specific example of volume adjustment control in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 35, the setting of “volume SW”, which is the volume control switch (volume setting device 46) on the back side of the gaming machine, is changed from “2” to “4” at timing t0. Then, the production control device 300 transmits a “volume control command” from the 1st CPU 311 to the sound source LSI 314 at the frame update timing t1 immediately after that. As a result, the output volume level of the speakers 19a and 19b is changed from “2” to “4”, and then the sound source LSI 314 outputs a signal for driving the speaker at the volume level “4”.
A period T2 in FIG. 35 is a period in which the setting of “volume SW” is “4”. During this period T2, the “effect SW” is operated while viewing the display as shown in FIG. If the volume level is changed from “4” to “2” at timing t2 in FIG. 35, the setting is reflected in the output volume level of the speaker, and then the effect control device 300 plays the game effect at the volume level “2”. Control to output sound. Note that the volume level setting change by the operation of the “effect SW” is performed in synchronization with the frame update as at the timing t3.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, priority is given to the latest setting of the volume control switch. For example, in the volume setting state during the period T2, the volume setting device 46 (volume SW in FIG. 35) on the back side of the gaming machine is operated, and the volume setting is changed from “4” to “3” at timing t4. Assuming that the output volume level of the speakers 19a and 19b is changed from “2” to “3” regardless of the volume level (“2” in the figure) by the operation of “effect SW”. This change is also performed in synchronization with the frame update (timing t5). In this state, if the input operation unit 25 on the front side of the gaming machine (“effect SW” in FIG. 35) is operated and the volume setting is changed from “3” to “0” at timing t6, “volume” Regardless of the volume level (“3” in the figure) by the setting of “SW”, the output volume level of the speakers 19a, 19b is changed from “3” to “0”. This change is also performed in synchronization with the frame update (timing t7).

FIG. 35 also shows volume control when an error occurs. In this embodiment, as shown in timing t8, the error notification sound is controlled to be output at the maximum volume level “5” as soon as an error occurs. On the other hand, when the error is recovered, the effect sound is controlled to be output at the set volume level before the error occurrence in synchronization with the next frame update (timing t9). Therefore, if an urgent error occurs, the game shop clerk or player can immediately recognize that the error has occurred, and at the time of error recovery without urgency, an error occurs in synchronization with the frame update. By outputting the production sound at the previous set volume level, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable. The error notification sound output may be started in synchronization with the frame update timing. Thereby, notification without a sense of incongruity becomes possible.
Note that the control shown in FIG. 35 can be executed in combination with the control shown in FIGS. 26 to 28, 30 to 33, and 34 described above.

From the above description, in the above embodiment, the speaker capable of outputting the game effect sound, the display device capable of variably displaying the identification information, and the volume of the game effect sound output from the speaker by a predetermined setting operation. A changeable volume setting means, a game control means for managing the progress of the game, and a game effect for controlling display on the display device and outputting to the speaker based on a control command signal from the game control means In a gaming machine equipped with production control means for controlling sound,
The volume setting means is provided on the back surface of the gaming machine and is a volume setting device as a first volume setting means that cannot be set by the player during the game, and is provided on the front surface of the gaming machine and the player is playing An input operation unit (volume control switch) as a second volume setting means capable of setting operation,
The production control means includes
Drawing data to be displayed on the display device is stored in a frame buffer, and display data that can be displayed on the display device is generated based on the drawing data stored in the frame buffer when a predetermined frame update timing is reached Display control means for outputting, an abnormality detection means for detecting that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine based on a predetermined event, and an abnormality elimination detection means for detecting that the abnormality has been resolved, , Having a function of controlling the output volume of the speaker based on the setting by the volume setting means,
In the volume setting operation by the second volume setting means, the volume set by the first volume setting means is set as the upper limit of the volume that can be set by the second volume setting means, and a volume below the upper limit can be set. And
When an abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection unit, an abnormality notification sound is output from the speaker in synchronization with a frame update timing at a predetermined volume that is not based on the setting by the volume setting unit, and the abnormality is resolved. It can be seen that the present invention includes an invention in which the abnormality notification sound is stopped in synchronization with the frame update timing when the detection means detects that the abnormality has been eliminated.

According to this invention, when an abnormality is detected, the abnormality notification is performed at a predetermined volume regardless of the setting by the volume setting means, so that the output of the speaker is set to a relatively low volume by the volume setting means. In addition, by notifying at a predetermined volume, it is possible to reliably recognize that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine and to output the abnormality notification sound in synchronization with the display of the display device. There can be no abnormality notification.
In addition, even if the volume setting means is provided on the front and back of the gaming machine, the volume change by the volume setting means that can be operated by the front player of the gaming machine is set by the volume setting means provided on the back of the gaming machine. When the emergency announcement that informs the occurrence of a disaster, etc. is notified, the situation where the player misses the emergency announcement by the game effect sound is caused by being restricted so that it can be changed within the range of the volume that has been set. Can be avoided.

Further, from the above description, in the above-described embodiment, a speaker capable of outputting a game effect sound, a display device capable of variably displaying identification information, and a volume of the game effect sound output from the speaker are set to a predetermined value. Volume control means that can be changed by operation, game control means for managing the progress of the game, and control of display on the display device based on a control command signal from the game control means, and output to the speaker In a gaming machine comprising production control means for controlling game production sound,
The volume setting means is provided on the back surface of the gaming machine and is a volume setting device as a first volume setting means that cannot be set by the player during the game, and is provided on the front surface of the gaming machine and the player is playing An input operation unit (volume control switch) as a second volume setting means capable of setting operation,
The production control means includes
Drawing data to be displayed on the display device is stored in a frame buffer, and display data that can be displayed on the display device is generated based on the drawing data stored in the frame buffer when a predetermined frame update timing is reached Display control means for outputting, an abnormality detection means for detecting that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine based on a predetermined event, and an abnormality elimination detection means for detecting that the abnormality has been resolved, , Having a function of controlling the output volume of the speaker based on the setting by the volume setting means,
In the volume setting operation by the second volume setting means, the volume set by the first volume setting means is set as the upper limit of the volume that can be set by the second volume setting means, and a volume below the upper limit can be set. And
When an abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection unit, an abnormality notification sound is output from the speaker at a predetermined volume not based on the setting by the volume setting unit regardless of the frame update timing, and the abnormality elimination detection is performed. When it is detected that the abnormality is eliminated by the means, it is understood that the invention includes the invention in which the abnormality notification sound is stopped in synchronization with the frame update timing.

According to this invention, when the occurrence of abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection means, the abnormality notification sound is output from the speaker regardless of the frame update timing, so that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine. Notification can be made immediately. On the other hand, when it is detected that the abnormality of the gaming machine has been resolved, the notification by the abnormality notification sound is stopped in synchronization with the display of the display device, so that the return from the abnormality notification to the game effect sound is not uncomfortable. It can be carried out.
In addition, even if the volume setting means is provided on the front and back of the gaming machine, the volume change by the volume setting means that can be operated by the front player of the gaming machine is set by the volume setting means provided on the back of the gaming machine. When the emergency announcement that informs the occurrence of a disaster, etc. is notified, the situation where the player misses the emergency announcement by the game effect sound is caused by being restricted so that it can be changed within the range of the volume that has been set. Can be avoided.

  Although the invention made by the present inventor has been specifically described based on the embodiments, the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and non-restrictive in every respect. For example, in the embodiment described above, the effect button 25a and the select button 25b provided on the front surface of the gaming machine are also used as volume setting means, but a dedicated volume adjustment switch may be provided. The volume control switch on the front surface of the gaming machine may be a slide type setting switch or a dial type setting switch.

Further, in the above embodiment, a special figure display 51 and 52 for executing the original fluctuation display game is provided separately from the display apparatus 41 so that the display apparatus 41 displays the decoration special figure fluctuation display game. As described above, the display device 41 may be configured to execute the original variable display game without providing the special figure indicators 51 and 52.
Further, in the above-described embodiment, the present invention is applied to a pachinko gaming machine. However, the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine, and is a gaming machine such as an arrangement ball gaming machine, a sparrow ball gaming machine, and a slot machine. It is also applicable to.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Game machine 16 Illumination device 18 Decoration device 19 Speaker 21 Upper plate 23 Lower plate 25 Input operation part (volume setting means)
25a Production button 25b Select button 27 Ball rental button 28 Eject button 30 Game board 32 Game area 34 Regular start gate 35 General winning opening 36 Special figure 1 starting winning opening 37 Normal variable winning apparatus 38 Special variable winning apparatus 39 Out outlet 40 Center Case 41 Display device 42 Sub display unit 46 Volume setting device (volume setting means)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 50 Collective display apparatus 51 Special figure 1 display 52 Special figure 3 display 53 LED display part 100 Game control apparatus (Game control means, control command transmission means)
110 CPU part 111A Game microcomputer 111B ROM
111C RAM (storage means)
120 input unit 130 output unit 200 payout control device 300 production control device (production control means, abnormality detection means, abnormality elimination detection means, volume restriction signal reception means)
307 VRAM FB (frame buffer)
311 1stCPU
312 2ndCPU
313 VDP (graphic processor: display control means)
314 Sound source LSI

Claims (5)

A speaker capable of outputting game effect sounds;
A display device capable of variably displaying the identification information;
Volume setting means capable of changing the volume of the game effect sound output from the speaker by a predetermined setting operation;
Game control means for managing the progress of the game;
Based on a control command signal from the game control means, effect control means for controlling display on the display device and controlling game effect sound output to the speaker;
In a gaming machine equipped with
The production control means includes
Drawing data to be displayed on the display device is stored in a frame buffer, and display data that can be displayed on the display device is generated based on the drawing data stored in the frame buffer when a predetermined frame update timing is reached Display control means for outputting
An abnormality detection means for detecting that an abnormality has occurred in the gaming machine based on a predetermined event;
An abnormality elimination detecting means for detecting that the anomaly has been eliminated;
A volume restriction signal receiving means for receiving a volume restriction signal transmitted from the outside of the gaming machine;
With
A function of controlling the output volume of the speaker based on the setting by the volume setting means;
When the volume restriction signal receiving means receives the volume restriction signal, the volume of the game effect sound output from the speaker is set to a predetermined first volume that is not based on the setting of the volume setting means. West,
When the occurrence of an abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection means, it is larger than the first volume that is not based on the setting by the volume setting means, regardless of whether or not the predetermined first volume is set. A gaming machine, wherein an abnormality notification sound is output from the speaker at a predetermined second volume regardless of frame update timing. The production control means includes
There are a plurality of channels for outputting to the speaker, the volume can be set for each of the plurality of channels, and it is possible to output simultaneously by reproducing different phrase data for each channel,
Phrase data related to the abnormal alarm sound is assigned to one channel, and phrase data related to game effect sound is assigned to a channel different from the one channel,
When the abnormality detecting means does not detect the occurrence of an abnormality and when the abnormality elimination detecting means detects that the abnormality of the gaming machine has been eliminated, the phrase effect sound is stored as phrase data relating to the gaming effect sound. Is played at a volume based on the setting by the volume setting means on the channel to which is assigned,
When occurrence of an abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection means, the phrase data relating to the game effect sound is reproduced on the channel to which the abnormality notification sound is assigned, and is also reproduced on the channel to which the game effect sound is assigned. 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the game data is output at a reduced volume without stopping reproduction of phrase data relating to the game effect sound being played. The production control means includes
If a setting operation is performed during output of the abnormality notification sound so that the volume setting means lowers the volume before starting the output of the abnormality notification sound, the volume change based on the setting operation is invalidated. While avoiding changing the volume,
During the output of the abnormality notification sound, if a setting operation is performed in the volume setting means to make the volume higher than the volume before the output of the abnormality notification sound, the volume change based on the setting operation is suspended. The gaming machine according to claim 2, wherein the volume is changed to a volume based on the setting operation during output of the abnormality notification sound at a timing when the abnormality notification sound is stopped. The game control means includes
Storage means that can store various data even when a power failure occurs when backup power is supplied,
When the power is turned on, it is determined whether or not the storage content of the storage means is normal. When it is determined that the storage content is not normal, the storage content is initialized and an initialization notification sound indicating that the storage content is initialized is output. Control command transmission means for transmitting a control command for performing the operation by the speaker,
The production control means includes
Based on the reception of a control command for outputting the initialization notification sound, the initialization notification sound is output,
When a setting operation for changing the volume is performed in the volume setting means during the output of the initialization notification sound, the output volume of the speaker is changed to a volume based on the setting operation. The gaming machine according to claim 3. The production control means includes
If a setting operation for changing the volume is performed in the volume setting means while the initialization notification sound is being output, the output volume of the speaker is set to the setting operation only for a predetermined period after the setting operation. The gaming machine according to claim 4, wherein the volume is changed to a volume based on the game machine.

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