JP2013042926A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine that prevents a decrease in expectation generated in a reserve notice performance when a symbol changes.SOLUTION: The game machine stores symbol variation information when a game ball enters a start pocket, variably displays a special symbol by executing variation start determination when the symbol variation information is stored, and executes prior determination before execution of the variation start determination and executes the reserve notice performance. In the game machine, the number of variation displays of a special symbol is counted upon execution of the reserve notice performance. When it is determined that the special symbol is variably displayed in response to symbol variation information for reserve notice performance based on the count, and when the number of pieces of symbol variation information in the determination is larger than the number of pieces of symbol variation information in execution of the reserve notice performance, variation time of the special symbol is determined by a variation time determination table for reserve notice to which longer variation time is set than a variation time determination table for reduction variation to be used when more than a predetermined pieces of symbol variation information are stored.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly, to a gaming machine (a ball game machine) such as a pachinko gaming machine such as a so-called seven machine, feathers, or a right-handed machine, or a combination type gaming machine (arranged ball gaming machine).

  In a pachinko machine, a random number for success / failure determination is held by entering a game ball into the starting port, and when the symbol variation start condition is satisfied, the determination is made using the hold and the variation display of the symbol is started. In the case of a big hit, it is configured to stop display with a big hit symbol. In such a pachinko gaming machine, a pre-determination (so-called hold prefetching) is executed to determine whether or not to generate a big hit in the determination of whether or not the hold before the symbol variation start condition is established, and based on the result of the pre-determination It is known to execute a holding notice effect that suggests that the result of the determination is likely to be a big hit.

  In the hold notice effect, even if the result of the pre-judgment is off, there may be a gase hold notice effect that suggests that it is highly likely that the result of the success / failure judgment will be a big hit. In the case of symbol variation based on hold, a stop symbol is displayed with a detachment symbol. For this reason, in order to maintain the expectation for the big hit caused by the gase hold notice effect, it has been proposed to give the player a sense of expectation for the big hit when the symbols change (for example, a reach effect) (Patent Literature). 1). This gaming machine stores information on whether or not a reach effect is to be performed together with a hold of a random number for determining whether or not the game is successful, and performs a hold notice effect by executing a hold notice effect at a certain rate when the reach effect is performed. It is configured so that the reach production is surely performed.

JP 2009-273498 A

  However, in order to increase the execution frequency of the hold notice effect when the occurrence of the reach effect is set as the execution condition of the hold notice effect, it is necessary to increase the reach effect occurrence frequency, and the symbol variation time becomes unnecessarily long. As a result, the operating rate of the gaming machine (the number of symbol fluctuations per unit time) is reduced. On the other hand, if the reach effect occurrence frequency is lowered, the occurrence frequency of the hold notice effect is lowered, and there is a problem that it becomes difficult to enhance the interest of the player by the hold notice effect.

  For this reason, in recent years, a hold notice effect is appropriately generated by executing a hold notice effect with a predetermined probability regardless of whether or not a reach effect is executed. In this case, after performing the hold notice effect, there is a case in which the reach effect is not performed due to the symbol variation and the stop symbol is displayed in the off state, and as a result, the expectation for the hold notice effect is diminished. In particular, when the number of holds reaches the upper limit at the time of symbol variation based on the hold that is the subject of the hold notice effect, the symbol change may end in a very short time (for example, about 1 second). In some cases, the interest of the player who was looking forward to the symbol variation related to the performance is cut off.

  In view of the above, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can suppress a decrease in expectation caused by a hold notice effect when a symbol fluctuates.

In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention provides:
Fluctuation information storage means for acquiring and storing symbol fluctuation information based on the game ball entering the starting port;
Pre-determination means for performing a pre-determination as to whether or not the symbol variation information for which variation start conditions are not satisfied is specific variation information;
A hold notice effect execution means for executing a hold notice effect that suggests the result of the prior decision by the prior decision means;
Triggered by the execution of the hold notice effect, a counting means for counting the number of times the symbol is displayed,
A variation time determination table storage means for storing a shortened variation variation time determination table used when the symbol variation information stored in the variation information storage means is a predetermined number or more, and a pending notice variation time determination table;
A variation time determining means for determining a variation time of the symbol using a variation time determination table stored in the variation time determination table storage means;
When the variation start condition of the symbol variation information is satisfied, a symbol display control means for stopping and displaying after the symbol is variably displayed on the symbol display unit,
The average value of the variation time of the special symbol stored in the change time determination table for holding advance notice is longer than the average value of the variation time of the special symbol stored in the variation time determination table for shortening variation. Is set,
The variation time determining means determines that the symbol is variably displayed based on the symbol variation information that is the subject of the hold notice effect based on the count by the counting means, and when the determination is performed When the number of symbol variation information of the symbol is larger than the number of symbol variation information when the hold notice effect is executed, the variation time of the special symbol is determined using the change time determination table for hold notice. It is characterized by that.

  According to the present invention, based on the count of the number of changes in the symbol that starts with the execution of the hold notice effect, grasp that the symbol resulting from the symbol change information that is the subject of the hold notice effect is variably displayed, Regardless of the number of symbol variation information (stored number) at that time, the variation time of the special symbol is determined using the variation time determination table for pending notice. That is, when the symbol variation display related to the symbol variation information that is the subject of the hold notice effect is made, even if the number of symbol variation information (the number of memories) is a predetermined number or more, the variation time determination table for shortening Is used, and the variable time determination table for holding notice is used. As a result, a fixed variation time is ensured for the time that the symbols are variably displayed based on the symbol variation information subject to the hold notice effect regardless of the number of memories (the number of holds) or the presence or absence of reach. be able to. As a result, it is possible to maintain the player's expectation for the big hit generated by the hold notice effect until the change display of the symbol corresponding to the hold notice effect ends from the start of the hold notice effect. Furthermore, it is not necessary to consider whether or not the reach effect is executed based on the symbol variation information that is the target of the hold notice effect, and the occurrence frequency of the hold notice effect can be freely set regardless of the occurrence frequency of the reach effect. .

  Further, in the present invention, the symbol variation when the special symbol variation display is performed based on the special symbol hold that is the subject of the hold notice effect with respect to the stored number of symbol change information when the hold notice effect is executed. Only when the number of stored information is increasing, the pending notice change time determination table is used. As a result, it is possible to avoid as much irregular processing as possible to determine the variation time of the special symbol using the pending notice variation time determination table that does not depend on the stored number of symbol variation information.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention,
The variation time determination table storage means stores a normal variation time determination table used when the number of the symbol variation information stored in the variation information storage means is less than the predetermined number,
The average value of the symbol variation time determined by the normal variation time determination table is set to be longer than the average value of the symbol variation time determined by the shortened variation variation time determination table. ,
The average value of the symbol variation time stored in the pending notice variation time determination table is set to be longer than the average value of the symbol variation time stored in the normal variation time determination table. It is characterized by having.

  Thereby, when the hold notice effect is executed, the variation time of the symbol becomes longer than when the hold notice effect is not executed. For this reason, a player's expectation with respect to the big hit which generate | occur | produced by the pending | holding notice effect can be improved.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention,
The variation time determination table storage means stores a normal variation time determination table used when the number of symbol variation information stored in the variation information storage means is less than the predetermined value,
The average value of the symbol variation time stored in the normal variation time determination table is set to be longer than the average value of the symbol variation time stored in the shortened variation variation time determination table. And
The normal variation time determination table is used as the hold notice variation time determination table.

  As described above, according to the configuration in which the normal variation time determination table is also used as the pending notice variation time determination table, a certain variation time can be secured even if the number of memories is equal to or more than the predetermined number, and the object of the hold notice effect is provided. It is not necessary to prepare a dedicated variation time determination table in order to determine the variation time of the special symbol that is variably displayed based on the symbol variation information that has become.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention,
The holding notice effect executing means is configured to determine whether or not to execute the holding notice effect by lottery,
The hold notice effect executing means increases the probability of executing the hold notice effect as the number of the symbol variation information stored in the change information storage means when the prior determination is executed is smaller. It is characterized by being set to.

  When the number of symbol variation information stored when executing the pre-determination process is small, the number of symbol variation information stored when the special symbol starts to vary based on the symbol variation information subjected to the prior determination process is also small. it is conceivable that. For this reason, even if the probability of occurrence of the hold notice effect is increased when the number of symbol variation information stored is small, a variation time determination table with a long variation time is likely to be selected. Can be secured.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the gaming machine which can suppress that the feeling of expectation which arose by the holding notice effect falls at the time of a symbol change can be provided.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment to which the present invention is applied. It is a front view of a game board. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a screen display of an effect display apparatus. It is a chart which shows a reservation notice determination table. It is a chart which shows a reach determination table. It is a chart which shows a change time determination table. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of an electronic controller. 6 is a flowchart showing a flow of a main job. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows a start opening prize process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol fluctuation related process. It is a flowchart which shows a change time determination process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit game process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol reservation related process. It is a flowchart which shows a design fluctuation effect relevant process. It is a flowchart which shows the starting opening prize process of 2nd Example. It is a flowchart which shows the change time determination process of 2nd Example. It is a graph which shows the variation time determination table of 3rd Example. It is a graph which shows the variation time determination table of 4th Example. It is a flowchart which shows the variation time setting process of 4th Example.

(First embodiment)
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following, a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter simply referred to as a gaming machine) of a type (so-called “seven machine type”) in which a jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed in response to the end of the special symbol variation display, and the jackpot game is triggered by this Examples to which the present invention is applied will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the front portion of the gaming machine 1 includes a main body frame 2, a middle frame 3, a front frame 4, an upper plate portion 5, a lower plate portion 6, a locking device 9, a game board 20, and the like. In FIG. 1, detailed illustration of the game board 20 is omitted. Further, the middle frame 3 is not clearly shown in FIG. 1 because the front frame 4 and the like are arranged on the front side.

  The main body frame 2 is an assembly of wooden plate-like bodies in a substantially rectangular frame shape, and constitutes an outer frame of the gaming machine 1. The middle frame 3 is made of plastic, is fitted inside the main body frame 2, and is pivotally supported at the left end so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 2. The middle frame 3 is composed of a frame body portion that occupies about 2/3 of the upper side and a lower plate portion that occupies about 1/3 of the lower side. The game board 20 and the front frame 4 are provided so as to overlap each other on the front side of the frame body part, and the upper plate part 5 and the lower plate part 6 are provided on the front side of the lower plate part. The lower plate portion is provided with a launcher unit (not shown) constituting launching means for launching a game ball onto the game board 20, and a ball feeder (not shown) for supplying the game ball to the launcher unit.

  The front frame 4 is disposed on the front side of the middle frame 3 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. The front frame 4 is made of plastic, and a circular opening 4a is formed in order to make the board surface of the game board 20 arranged on the back side visible. A substantially rectangular transparent plate frame (not shown) including a transparent plate such as a glass plate corresponding to the opening 4a is attached to the back surface of the front frame 4. Lamps such as LEDs (not shown) are provided around the game board 20 in the front frame 4. These lamps are turned on / off or blinking as the game progresses in order to enhance the gaming effect.

  The upper plate part 5 is provided on the lower side of the front frame 4 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. The upper dish part 5 includes a dish outer edge part 5a, a discharge port 5b for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1, and a ball release button 5c for discharging the game balls of the upper dish part 5 to the lower dish part 6. It has. On the upper surface of the dish outer edge portion 5a, an effect button 5d (one mode of operation means), a ball lending button 5e, and the like are provided.

  The lower plate part 6 is provided below the upper plate part 5. A discharge port 6 a for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1 to the lower plate portion 6 is provided in the approximate center of the lower plate portion 6. An ashtray 7 is provided at the left end of the lower dish portion 6. At the right end of the lower plate part 6, a launching handle 8 is provided for a player to operate a launching device unit (not shown). The firing handle 8 is provided with a touch switch 8a for detecting that the player is touching. On the left side surface of the launch handle 8, a launch stop switch 8b that is operated by the player to temporarily stop the launch of the game ball is disposed.

  The locking device 9 is provided at the center of the right end of the middle frame 3 and is used to lock the front frame 4 when it is closed.

  Further, the gaming machine 1 is provided with speakers 10a to 10d for generating sound effects and the like corresponding to the gaming state. The speakers 10 a to 10 d are composed of upper speakers 10 a and 10 b provided at the upper part of the gaming machine 1 and lower speakers 10 c and 10 d provided at the lower part of the gaming machine 1. Further, a prepaid card unit 13 (CR unit) is mounted on the left side of the gaming machine 1.

  Next, the surface structure of the game board 20 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 20. The game board 20 is a substantially rectangular wooden plate-like body and is detachably attached to the middle frame 3, and its back side is covered by a back mechanism board (not shown).

  As shown in FIG. 2, a substantially circular game area 21 is formed on the game board 20 by an outer rail 22 and an inner rail 23 provided on the surface (board surface) of the game board 20. In the game area 21, there are a central device 24, a normal symbol operating gate 27, a large winning device (special electric accessory) 33, a starting port 28, left winning ports 34 and 35, right winning ports 36 and 37, and a first decorative member. 50, game devices such as the second decorative member 60 are disposed. In addition, a number of obstacle nails are arranged in the game area 21 in consideration of the position balance with each gaming device.

  The central device (center accessory) 24 is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game area 21 and includes an effect display device 25. In the present embodiment, a large liquid crystal display device is used as the effect display device 25, and various effect displays are performed in the display area of the effect display device 25.

  The big winning device 33 is arranged below the central device 24 in the game area 21. The first decoration device 50 is arranged on the left side of the big prize device 33 in the game area 21, the second decoration device 60 is arranged on the right side of the big prize device 33 in the game area 21, and the decoration devices 50, 60 are so-called side. Make up decorations. Further, the first winning device 34 is integrated with the left winning holes 34 and 35, and the second winning device 60 is integrated with the right winning ports 36 and 37.

  The normal symbol operating gate 27 is provided on the left side of the central device 24. Inside the normal symbol operation gate 27, a normal symbol operation gate detection switch 27s (see FIG. 7) for detecting the passage of the game ball is provided. When the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27, the normal symbol starts to fluctuate.

  The start port 28 is provided below the central position of the central device 24. The start port 28 is a first start port provided on the upper side, in which two entrance ports formed with a game ball receiving port for receiving a game ball flowing down on the surface of the game board 20 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction. 28a and a second start port 28b provided on the lower side.

  The first starting port 28a is configured as a fixed starting port in which the size of the game ball receiving port does not change and the possibility of entering the game ball is constant, so that the game ball can always enter the game. It has become. On the other hand, the second start port 28b is a so-called tulip type and has a pair of wing pieces on the left and right, and the upper end gap between the pair of wing pieces serves as a game ball receiving port. The pair of wing pieces are each opened and closed by tilting in the left-right direction. With this opening and closing action, the second start port 28b is the size of the game ball receiving port of the pair of wing pieces. It is configured as a variable starter that changes. The second start port 28b is in an open state with a high probability of entering by opening a pair of blade pieces, and in a normal state with a low possibility of entering by closing a pair of blade pieces (incoming balls) Including an impossible closed state). When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a combination of symbols, the pair of wing pieces are opened to expand the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b, and the second start port 28b is a normal electric accessory. Function as.

  Inside the start port 28, a start port entrance detection switch 28s (see FIG. 7) for detecting the entrance of a game ball, and a start port solenoid 28c (see FIG. 7) for operating a pair of wing pieces. Is provided. When the pair of wing pieces are opened to the left and right, the size of the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b is enlarged from the normal time, and the second start port 28b has a possibility of entering a game ball. It becomes an open state that becomes larger. On the other hand, when the pair of wing pieces are erected, the size of the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b is slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball (one game ball can pass). The second start port 28b is in a normal state (closed state) in which the possibility of entering a game ball is reduced (or entry is impossible). As the game balls enter the start ports 28a and 28b, the special symbols described later start to fluctuate.

  The big prize device 33 is disposed below the start port 28. Here, the special winning device 33 includes a special winning opening 33a opened in a belt shape, an opening / closing plate 33b for opening / closing the special winning opening 33a, and a large winning opening solenoid 33c (for operating the opening / closing plate 33b). 7) and an incoming ball detection switch 33s (see FIG. 7) for detecting the incoming game ball.

  A left winning opening 34 and 35 and a right winning opening 36 and 37 are provided on the upper left side and the upper right side of the big winning device 33. Each of these winning openings is provided with a winning opening entering detection switch (not shown).

  The first decorative member 50 is provided with a plurality of LEDs, and a combination of these LEDs constitutes a normal symbol display portion 51, a general symbol hold display portion 52, and a special symbol hold display portion 53. Similarly, the second decorative member 60 is provided with a plurality of LEDs, and a special symbol display unit 61 is configured by a combination of these LEDs.

  The normal symbol display part 51 is comprised from one LED, and a normal symbol is displayed by this LED. In the normal symbol display unit 51, the normal symbol variation display and stop display are performed. In the normal symbol display unit 51, the normal symbol starts to change when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27, and after a predetermined time has passed, the normal symbol hits and stops display in the normal symbol display mode or the dismissed normal symbol display mode. Is done. Then, when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the preset normal symbol display mode, the second start port 28b is opened for a predetermined time (for example, 0.1 second).

  In the present embodiment, a random number for determining whether or not a normal symbol is provided is prepared. This random number for determining whether or not a normal symbol is used determines whether or not the second starting port 28b is activated when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27. This is used to determine whether or not a normal symbol is appropriate. The normal symbol success / failure random number is set in advance with a hit value, and the normal symbol success / failure determination random number acquired at the timing when the game ball passes the normal symbol operation gate 27 matches the win value. Determined. When it is determined to be a winning, the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display unit 51 is determined as the display mode of the winning normal symbol. On the other hand, when it is determined to be out (when the acquired normal symbol success / failure random number does not match the winning value), the normal symbol stopped and displayed in the normal symbol display unit 51 is determined as the display mode of the out of normal symbol. Is done. Note that the determination of whether or not the normal symbol is correct and the determination of the stop symbol of the normal symbol are performed by the main control unit 200 described later.

  Here, normal symbol holding will be described. The normal symbol hold display section 52 displays the normal symbol hold number, and the number of game balls that have passed through the normal symbol operation gate 27 can be held up to the maximum hold number (four in this embodiment). Each time the next normal symbol win / fail determination is made and the normal symbol variation display is started, the number of unstarted times (the number of reservations) is consumed, and the number of normal symbol reservations is decreased by one. The general-purpose hold display unit 52 includes two LEDs, and can display the number of holds with an upper limit of four by combining turning off, lighting, and blinking of the two LEDs. The normal symbol holding and holding digest are performed by the main control unit 200 described later. Along with the holding of the normal symbol, a random number for determining whether or not the normal symbol is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200.

  Next, the special symbol will be described. The special symbol display unit 61 is composed of seven LEDs, and special symbols are displayed by these LEDs. Each LED constituting the special symbol display unit 61 can be turned on and off, and a plurality of special symbol display modes can be displayed by a combination of turning on and off the LEDs. Of the combinations of special symbols displayed by the seven LEDs, a specific combination is set as a hit special symbol (big hit symbol), and a portion other than the hit special symbol is set off as a special symbol (off symbol). ing. In this embodiment, the special symbol variation display is performed by blinking display in which each LED is repeatedly turned on and off. In this embodiment, a plurality of jackpot symbols are set, and specifically, “probable variation jackpot symbol” and “normal jackpot symbol” are set as described later.

  Here, the symbol variation effect performed in the effect display device 25 will be described. FIG. 3 shows a screen display example of the effect display device 25. As shown in FIG. 3, in the display area V of the effect display device 25, effect symbol display units 25a to 25c for displaying effect symbols are provided. In the effect symbol display units 25a to 25c, a symbol variation effect is displayed in which the effect symbols are displayed in conjunction with the special symbol change display and stop display of the special symbol display unit 61.

  The effect symbol display units 25a to 25c are three symbol displays including a left symbol display unit 25a that displays a left symbol, a middle symbol display unit 25b that displays a middle symbol, and a right symbol display unit 25c that displays a right symbol. It consists of parts. Each of the symbol display units 25a to 25c has a symbol variation direction set in a direction substantially orthogonal to the arrangement direction, in this case, in the vertical direction (vertical direction). Each symbol display part 25a-25c can display the symbol which consists of "1"-"9", respectively.

  The effect symbol starts to be displayed when the special symbol starts to be changed. When the special symbol is stopped and displayed in any of the symbols, the effect symbol is stopped and displayed in accordance with the stop symbol of the special symbol. In the production design, a combination of even symbols with the same three digits corresponds to a normal big hit symbol with a special symbol, a combination of odd symbols with the same three digits corresponds to a probabilistic jackpot symbol with a special symbol, and other symbol combinations are special. Corresponds to symbols that are out of design.

  The determination of the variation pattern (variation pattern) and stop symbol of the effect symbol is configured to be performed by the sub-control unit 260 based on the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200. Here, the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 indicates a variation pattern of a special symbol. Specifically, two digits of the variation time of the special symbol and the three-digit effect symbol are the same. The contents of effects such as the presence or absence of reach effects that are stopped and displayed with symbols are shown. The main control unit 200 determines a variation pattern of the special symbol at random (by random number lottery) according to the determination result of the special symbol. And based on the variation pattern of the special symbol determined by the main control unit 200, the sub-control unit 260 determines the effect pattern of the effect symbol displayed on the effect symbol display units 25a to 25c.

  In the special symbol display unit 61 shown in FIG. 2, when the game ball enters the start port 28, the special symbol starts to fluctuate, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, the special symbol is stopped and displayed as a big hit symbol or a missed symbol.

  As the game ball enters the starting port 28, a special symbol random number is acquired and stored as a hold (special symbol hold) in a predetermined area (hold storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200. The special symbol random number includes a special symbol random number for determining whether or not a special symbol is used, a special symbol determining random number for determining a special symbol to be stopped, and a reach for determining whether or not a reach effect display is performed. A random number, a pending notice random number for determining whether to perform a pending notice effect, and the like are included. The special symbol random number corresponds to the “symbol variation information” of the present invention.

  Here, the holding of special symbols will be described. The special symbol hold display unit 53 is composed of two LEDs, and can display the number of holds with an upper limit of four by combining turning off, turning on, and blinking of the two LEDs.

  The number of game balls that have entered the start opening 28 can be suspended until the maximum number of reservations (four in this embodiment) is reached as the number of special symbol reservations (the symbol variation information for which the variation start condition is not satisfied). Yes. The number of special symbol reservations is the number of random numbers for special symbol success / failure determination that is acquired every time a game ball enters the start port 28 and is stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200. It corresponds to (memory number). The number of special symbol reservations is digested every time the special symbol determination is made and the variation display of the special symbol is started (every time the variation start condition is satisfied), and decreases by one. Note that special symbols are reserved and reserved by the main control unit 200, which will be described later, and the main control unit 200 and the RAM of the main control unit 200 correspond to the variation information storage means of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 3, a holding display unit 25 d is provided in the display area V of the effect display device 25. The hold display unit 25d is displayed in conjunction with the special symbol hold display unit 53, and displays a number of circular figures “◯” corresponding to the number of special symbol holds (the number of symbol variation information for which the variation start condition is not established). Is done. In the hold display section 25d of the present embodiment, the leftmost circle figure “◯” indicates the special symbol hold stored first, and the special symbol hold newly stored in order toward the right side. In FIG. 3, four special symbol holds where the variation start condition is not satisfied are stored.

  The special symbol success / failure determination random number is set with a winning value for winning / failure determination, and the special symbol success / failure determination random number acquired at the timing when the game ball enters the start port 28 matches the winning value. A big hit is determined. The special symbol success / failure determination is performed when the special symbol starts variable display when the number of special symbol reservations is one or more.

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when a game ball enters the start port 28, a special symbol success / failure determination random number is acquired, and the acquired special symbol success / failure determination random number matches the winning / failure determination hit value. Pre-determination processing is performed to determine whether or not In addition, when it is determined by the pre-determination process that the reserved special symbol success / failure random number matches the hit value for the success / failure determination, the special symbol success / failure determination random number related to that hit is included in the “specific variation information” of the present invention. Applicable. The “specific variation information” includes not only a random number per hit but also random numbers for hit and miss. As a result, even if the hold notice effect is executed, it may be a win or a miss. However, when the hold notice effect is executed, the possibility of winning is set higher than when the hold notice effect is not executed. Thereby, the player's sense of expectation for the jackpot of the hold notice effect can be enhanced.

  Specifically, a special symbol success / failure determination random number and a special symbol determination random number acquired as a game ball enters the start port 28 are stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200. If a special symbol win / reject random number is hit or missed, and whether the special symbol determination random number is a probable big hit symbol or a normal big hit symbol, a pre-determination process is performed to determine whether or not A holding notice effect is performed to suggest the result to the player.

  In the hold notice effect, an effect of notifying the result of the prior determination (possibility of occurrence of a big hit) using the hold display unit 25d provided in the display area V of the effect display device 25 is performed. The reserved notice effect is only required to distinguish the special symbol hold in which the reserved notice effect is executed from the special symbol hold in which the reserved notice effect is not executed. For example, in the hold display unit 25d of the effect display device 25, the reserved notice effect is provided. It is possible to change the circle figure “◯” corresponding to the reservation of the special symbol to be subject to the change to the star figure “☆” which is a different kind of symbol. For example, when the number of special symbol hold is the upper limit “4”, and the hold of the special symbol that is held third is the target of the hold notice effect (for example, hit), the display of the hold display unit 25d Becomes "XXX".

  In this embodiment, four types of hold notice effects 1 to 4 are performed, and each hold notice effect 1 to 4 has a reliability (the special symbol hold that is the object of the hold notice effect is equal to the hit determination value). The possibility of doing it is different. Specifically, the hold notice effect 1 has the lowest reliability, and the hold notice effect 2, the hold notice effect 3, and the hold notice effect 4 are in the order of reliability. The reliability of each of the hold notice effects 1 to 4 can be varied depending on, for example, the display color of the star figure “☆” in each of the hold notice effects 1 to 4, and the star figure “☆” is displayed in white as the hold notice effect 1 The star figure “☆” is displayed in green as the hold notice effect 2, the star figure “☆” is displayed in blue as the hold notice effect 3, and the star figure “☆” is displayed in red as the hold notice effect 4 Can do.

  Further, the hold notice effect is performed as a so-called “gasset hold notice effect” not only when the result of the prior determination is a big hit but also when the result of the prior determination is off. The hold notice effect that is performed when the result of the pre-judgment is a big hit is referred to as “hold-off notice effect at the time of hit”, and the hold notice effect that is performed when the result of the pre-judgment is off is referred to as “hold notice effect at the time of loss”. Whether or not to perform a hold notice effect is determined by random number lottery using a hold notice determination table after acquiring and storing a special symbol success / failure random number.

  FIG. 4 shows a hold notice determination table used in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of hold notice determination tables are prepared, and the number of special symbol holds (1 to 4) at the time when the preliminary determination process is performed (after the special symbol random number is stored). It is selected and used according to. These reservation notice determination tables include a reservation notice determination table 1 used when the number of special symbol reservations is one, a reservation notice determination table 2 used when the number of special symbol reservations is two, and a special symbol reservation. The reservation notice determination table 3 used when the number is three and the reservation notice determination table 4 used when the number of special symbol reservations is four are included. If the number of special symbol hold at the time when the special symbol success / failure determination random number has been reached has reached the upper limit of 4, the new special symbol random number will not be acquired / stored and the hold notice effect will be held. Is not executed.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the hold notice occurrence probabilities are different in the hold notice determining tables 1 to 4. In the hold notice determination table shown in FIG. 4, a hold notice generation random number value for generating each hold notice effect 1 to 4 is set. The occurrence probability of ~ 4 is shown. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the hold notice random number is randomly acquired within the range of 0 to 199 at the time of starting and the hold notice effect is displayed when the obtained hold notice random number matches the hold notice occurrence random number value. Executed.

  In the present embodiment, the probability that a hold notice effect is generated is different in each hold notice determination tables 1 to 4. Specifically, in the hold notice determination table 1, the probability of occurrence of a hold notice effect at the time of release is 20%, and the probability of occurrence of a hold notice effect at the time of hit is 50%. Further, in the hold notice determination table 2, the probability of occurrence of the hold notice effect at the time of release is 20%, and the probability of occurrence of the hit notice notice effect at the time of hitting is 60%. Further, in the hold notice determination table 3, the probability of occurrence of the hold notice effect at the time of losing is 10%, and the probability of occurrence of the hit notice notice effect at the time of hitting is 60%. Further, in the hold notice determination table 4, the probability of occurrence of a hold notice effect at the time of losing is 5%, and the probability of occurrence of a hold notice effect at the time of hit is 70%.

  In this way, the greater the number of special symbol holds at the time the special symbol success / failure determination random number is acquired, the lower the probability that the off-hold hold notice effect will be executed, and the higher the probability that the hit hold notice effect will be executed. . On the other hand, the smaller the number of special symbol hold at the time when the special symbol success / failure determination random number is acquired, the higher the probability that the off-hold hold notice effect will be executed, and the lower the probability that the big hit hold notice effect will be executed. As a result, if a hold notice effect is generated when the number of special symbol hold is small, the reliability of the hold notice effect is low, and if a hold notice effect occurs when the special symbol hold number is large, It is possible to achieve a game with a high degree of production reliability.

  In the present embodiment, when the result of the pre-judgment is out of place and when the jackpot is in effect, the hold notice effects 1 to 4 having the same contents (the hold notice effects 1 to 4 at the time of release, the hold notice effects 1 to 4 at the time of hit) are performed. Is called. The probabilities of occurrence of each of the on-hold notice effects 1 to 4 differ depending on whether the result of the pre-judgment is off or on the big hit. For example, in the hold notice determination table 1, the probability of occurrence of the hold notice effect 1 at the time of release is 10%, the probability of occurrence of the hold notice effect 2 at the time of release is 5%, the probability of occurrence of the hold notice effect 3 at the time of release is 4%, The probability of occurrence of the on-hold announcement effect 4 is 1%, the occurrence probability of the on-hold announcement effect 1 is 5%, the occurrence probability of the on-hold announcement effect 2 is 10%, and the occurrence probability of the on-hold announcement effect 3 is 15. %, The probability of occurrence of the on-hold announcement effect 4 is 20%.

  As described above, when the result of the prior determination is out of order, the probability of occurrence of the on-hold announcement effect having a lower reliability is higher, and the probability of occurrence of the reservation on-demand notification having a higher degree of reliability is lower. In such a case, the probability of occurrence of the on-holding notice effect having a lower reliability is lower, and the probability of occurrence of the on-holding notice effect having a higher reliability is higher. In the other hold notice determination tables 2 to 4, the occurrence probabilities of the hold notice effects 1 to 4 show the same tendency depending on whether the result of the preliminary determination is off or on the big hit. As a result, when a hold notice effect with low reliability is performed, there is a high probability that the special symbol success / failure determination based on the special symbol hold that is the target of the hold notice effect will be missed, and the hold notice effect with high reliability. Is performed, the probability that the special symbol success / failure determination based on the special symbol hold that is the target of the hold notice effect will be a big hit.

  In this embodiment, the random number lottery using the hold notice determination table is performed by the main control unit 200, and the sub control unit 260 performs the hold display unit of the effect display device 25 based on the hold notice command transmitted from the main control unit 200. The hold notice effect is performed by changing the display of 25d. The hold notice command includes information for designating whether or not to execute the hold notice effect and information for designating the type of the hold notice effect (any of the hold notice effects 1 to 4). For this reason, the main control unit 200 and the sub-control unit 260 correspond to the “holding notice effect executing means” of the present invention.

  When the result of the above-described special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit, the special symbol stopped and displayed by the special symbol display unit 61 is determined as a big hit symbol (probability big hit symbol or normal big hit symbol). Note that the type of jackpot symbol of the special symbol is determined based on a special symbol determining random number. On the other hand, when the special symbol winning / failing determination is out of place, the special symbol that is stopped and displayed by the special symbol display unit 61 is determined to be the out symbol.

  The special symbol is configured to change and display according to a predetermined change pattern. This variation pattern regulates the variation content of the special symbol and the presence or absence (reproduction content) of the reach effect in the variation. A plurality of variation patterns are associated with random values for determining the variation pattern in the variation pattern table. include. The variation pattern of the special symbol is selected by lottery from a variation pattern table in which a plurality of variation patterns are stored when the special symbol success / failure determination is executed (when the variation start condition is satisfied).

  When the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit, the reach effect is performed with a probability of 100%. When the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is wrong, the reach effect is performed by a lottery using a reach random number. Is decided. The determination of whether or not to perform reach production is performed using a reach determination table.

  FIG. 5 shows a reach determination table. In the reach determination table, outlier reach occurrence random value is set, and when the acquired reach random number matches the outlier reach occurrence random value, the reach effect is executed. In the present embodiment, a range of outlier reach random number values that differ depending on the number of special symbol reservations (1 to 4) when the special symbol starts to change is set. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the reach random number is acquired within a range of 0 to 199. The random reach occurrence random value when the number of special symbol hold is 1 is set to “0 to 39 (reach occurrence probability 20%)”, and the random reach occurrence random number when the special symbol hold number is 2 is “0-19 (reach occurrence probability 10%)” is set, and when the number of special symbol hold is 3, the outreach reach random number value is set to “0-13 (reach occurrence probability 7%)” and the special symbol In the case where the number of holdings is 4, the random reach occurrence random number value is set to “0 to 9 (reach occurrence probability 5%)”. As described above, in this embodiment, the probability of occurrence of detachment differs according to the number of special symbol holds, the higher the number of special symbol hold, the lower the probability of occurrence of detachment, and the lower the number of special symbol hold, the more likely The reach probability is high.

  Also, a plurality of special symbol variation pattern tables are prepared, and are selected and used according to the gaming state. The plurality of variation pattern tables include a variation pattern table per reach selected when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit, and a reach failure variation pattern table selected when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is out of place. In addition, a reach variation pattern table without reach is included. The reach-per-reach variation pattern and the reach-removal variation pattern are variation patterns with a reach effect, and the non-reach variation pattern is a variation pattern with no reach effect.

  The variation time of the special symbol is selected using a variation time determination table in which a plurality of variation times are stored after the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined.

  FIG. 6 shows a variation time determination table used in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, a plurality of variation time determination tables are prepared, and are selected and used according to the number of special symbol reservations (1 to 4) at the time when the special symbol starts to vary. These variable time determination tables include a variable time determination table 1 used when the number of special symbol reservations is one, a variable time determination table 2 used when the number of special symbol reservations is two, and a special symbol reservation. A variation time determination table 3 used when the number is three and a variation time determination table 4 used when the number of special symbol reservations is four are included.

  Each of the variation time determination tables 1 to 4 includes a reach-less out-of-reach variation time used when determining a variation time of a reach-less variation pattern and a reach-out / out-variation time used when determining a variation time of a reach-out variation pattern. The fluctuation time per reach used for determining the fluctuation time of the fluctuation pattern per reach is included. There are five types of variation times (reach variation times with reach 1 to 5) having different lengths in the reach variation time with reach, and the variation time with reach is 5 which is the same as the reach variation time with reach. Various types of variation time (variation times 1 to 5 per reach) are set. In addition, the specific numerical value of the change time shown in FIG. 6 has shown the average value of the change time of the special symbol determined by each change time determination table.

  In each of the variation time determination tables 1 to 4, the reach variation time with reach and the variation time with reach are the same, and only the reach variation time without reach is different. Specifically, the fluctuation time determination table used when the number of special symbol reservations is small, the average value of the non-reach fluctuation time becomes longer, and the variation time determination table used when the number of special symbol reservations is large, the reach None The average deviation time is set to be short. That is, each of the variation time determination tables 1 to 4 is selected when the special symbol hold number is less than a predetermined number and the “normal variable time determination table” selected when the special symbol hold number is less than the predetermined number. It is possible to classify them as “shortening variation time determination table”. The average value of the variation time of the special symbol determined by the shortening variation time determination table is set to be shorter than the average value of the variation time of the special symbol determined by the normal variation time determination table. In this embodiment, the predetermined number is “2”, and the variable time determination table 1 (one special symbol hold number) corresponds to the “normal variable time determination table”, and the variable time determination table 2 (special symbol hold). 2), the variable time determination table 3 (special symbol reservation number 3), and the variable time determination table 4 (special symbol reservation number 4) correspond to the “shortening variable time determination table”. The “variation time determination tables for shortening” are set as the variation time determination tables 2, 3, and 4, and the degree of shortening is different, but the average of the variation time of the special symbol with respect to the variation time determination table 1 The value is set to be shorter. Alternatively, the change time of the hold numbers 1 and 2 may be set to the same value, the predetermined number may be “3”, and the change time determination table for shortening may be used when the hold number is 3 or more.

  Further, in the present embodiment, after execution of the hold notice effect, a change time determination table for hold notice used when the special symbol starts to fluctuate based on the special symbol hold targeted for the hold notice effect is prepared. If the special symbol starts to fluctuate based on the special symbol hold that is the target of the hold notice effect, the special symbol hold time will be changed using the change time determination table for hold notice regardless of the number of special symbols held at that time. The variation time is determined. In this embodiment, the average value of the variation time of the special symbol determined by the pending notice variation time determination table is set to be longer than the average value of the variation time of the special symbol determined by the shortening variation time determination table. Has been. It should be noted that the change time determination table for holding notice in this embodiment is the change time of special symbols determined by the change time determination table 1 (normal change time determination table) used when the number of special symbol holds is one (normal change time determination table). Is set to be longer than the average value.

  In this embodiment, in order to grasp the timing at which the special symbol is variably displayed based on the special symbol hold that is the target of the hold notice effect, the number of changes in the special symbol is counted using the hold notice counter. The special symbol hold number when the pre-determination process is performed, that is, the special symbol random number when the special symbol random number that is the target of the hold notice effect is stored is set in the hold notice counter (for example, 3 : At this time, the third special symbol hold is displayed as ☆ (“XXX”). After setting the special symbol hold number (3) when performing the hold notice effect to the hold notice counter, the changing special symbol ends the change display (change stop), and in the next special symbol change display start process, The hold notice counter is subtracted (the counter value is changed from 3 to 2, and the hold display portion is changed to “◯ ☆”). In addition, the counter value is changed from 2 to 1 by the next special symbol variation display, and the hold display section becomes “☆” (There is no new start prize during this period). Then, when the hold notice counter becomes zero in the variable display start process, it is determined that the special symbol is variably displayed based on the special symbol hold that is the target of the hold notice effect, and the change time determination table for hold notice is used. The change time of special symbols is determined. As described above, the value of the hold notice counter indicates the number of times the special symbol is changed and displayed from when the hold notice effect is performed until the special symbol that is the target of the hold notice effect is displayed in a variable manner. The number of stored memories at the time when the hold notice effect is performed is also shown.

  The determination of special symbol success / failure, determination of special symbol variation pattern, determination of presence / absence of reach effect, determination of special symbol stop symbol, pre-determination process, counting by holding notice counter, determination of special symbol variation time are described below. It is configured to be performed by the control unit 200. Therefore, the main control unit 200 corresponds to “special symbol display control means”, “variation time determination means”, “counting means”, and “preliminary determination means” of the present invention. Further, the hold notice determination table (FIG. 4), the reach determination table (FIG. 5), and the variation time determination table (FIG. 6) are stored in the ROM of the main control unit 200. For this reason, the ROM of the main control unit 200 corresponds to the “variable time determination table storage unit” of the present invention.

  Next, the jackpot game will be described. When the special symbol stopped and displayed in the special symbol display unit 61 is a hit special symbol (when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit), the main control unit 200 is a big hit game that is relatively advantageous to the player. Start (special game). The jackpot game is started by setting the jackpot game flag to ON. The big hit game is to give a player a profit (prize ball) with respect to entering the game ball into the big prize opening 33a by operating the big prize device 33, in other words, by opening and closing the big prize opening 33a a plurality of times. The main control unit 200 corresponds to the jackpot game execution means of the present invention. The jackpot game is realized by repeatedly executing a jackpot game process described later.

  During the big hit game, the big prize device 33 is operated, and a predetermined number of prize balls (for example, 15 prize balls for one prize) according to the number of game balls entered into the big prize opening 33a. Will be paid out. Specifically, at the start of the big hit game, the big prize opening device (special electric accessory) 33 is continuously operated, and the big prize opening opening / closing operation for switching the big prize opening 33a between the open state and the closed state is continuously performed a plurality of times. Done. With the start of the operation of the special winning device 33, the special winning opening 33a is opened. This open state is ended when a predetermined end condition is established, and the open special winning opening 33a is closed. As a predetermined end condition, when the opening time of the big winning opening 33a reaches a predetermined time (30 seconds in the present embodiment), or when the number of game balls entered into the opened large winning opening 33a is a predetermined number (this execution) In the example, it is possible to reach 10).

  When it is assumed that one round is from the start to the end of the open state of the big winning opening 33a, the big hit game is ended by performing a predetermined number of rounds. In the grand prize winning device 33, after the opening of the big prize winning opening 33a is completed, that is, after a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) has passed since the big winning prize opening 33a is closed, the big winning prize opening 33a is again opened. Round begins. The opening / closing operation of the grand prize winning port 33a in which one round is from the start to the end of the big winning port 33a is repeated until a predetermined maximum number of continuous rounds (15 rounds in this embodiment) is completed.

  In the gaming machine of this embodiment, after the big hit game is finished, a specific game (so-called short-time game and probability variable game) in which the variable time shortening function, the open time extending function, and the probability varying function are activated is started. Multiple types of jackpots are set in the special symbol success / failure determination. If the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a normal jackpot (the special symbol stop symbol is a normal jackpot symbol), after the jackpot game ends, In the case where the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a probable big hit (the special symbol stop symbol is a probable big hit symbol), the probable variation game is started after the big hit game ends. Note that the variable time shortening function, the opening time extending function, and the probability varying function are activated by setting the fluctuation shortening flag, the opening extension flag, and the probability variation flag to ON, respectively.

  When the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a normal jackpot (the special symbol stop symbol is a normal jackpot symbol), after the jackpot game is over, the variable time shortening function and the opening time extension for extending the opening time of the second start port 28b are extended. The function is activated and the short-time game is started. The fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function are activated or stopped by the control of the main control unit 200, and the fluctuation time shortening function (fluctuation time shortening means) is a normal symbol fluctuation that shortens the normal symbol fluctuation time. A time shortening function and a special symbol variation time shortening function for shortening the special symbol variation time are included. The fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extension function operate after the big hit game is finished until the next big hit game is started, or until the number of fluctuations of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number (100 times in this example). . Due to the operation of the opening time extension function, the opening time of the second start port 28b is, for example, “4.5 seconds (1.5 seconds × 3 times or 4.times. 5 seconds x 1 release, etc.) ". As a result, the frequency of entering the game ball into the second start port 28b becomes higher than normal (when the opening extension function is not activated).

  If the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a probable big hit (the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probable big hit symbol), after the big hit game ends, the probability variation function starts to operate, and the probable variable game is started. The probability variation game is realized by the control of the main control unit 200. In this probability variation game, in addition to the above-described variable time shortening function and opening time extension function, the probability of special symbol success / failure determination, that is, the special symbol is a big hit symbol. A probability variation function (probability variation means) that changes (improves) the probability of stop display is activated. While the probability variation function is in operation, the probability of the special symbol success / failure determination is improved by increasing the hit value for the success / failure determination. The probability variation function operates after the jackpot game is over until the next jackpot game is started.

  Next, the electronic control device of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the electronic control device.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the electronic control unit includes a main control unit 200 and sub-control units 230, 260, and 280 connected to the main control unit 200. The sub control unit includes a payout control unit (prize ball control unit) 230, a sub control unit 260, and an effect display control unit 280. The main control unit 200 includes a main control board 200a, and the sub control units 230, 260, and 280 include a payout control board 230a, a sub control board 260a, and an effect display control board 280a, respectively, as peripheral control boards. Each of these control boards and other boards (a power board, a relay board, a drive board, a decoration board, an amplifier board, an effect button board, etc.) are arranged on the back side of the gaming machine 1.

  Each control unit 200, 230, 260, 280 is supplied with power from a main power source (not shown). Further, when the power is turned on, a system reset signal is transmitted to each control unit 200, 230, 260, 280. Note that the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment includes a backup power supply unit (not shown) that supplies an operating voltage to the main control unit 200 and the payout control unit 230 when the power is turned off. 200 and RAM data of the payout control unit 230 are held.

  The main control unit 200 constitutes a main control unit that controls the progress of the game. The main control unit 200 transmits a command signal (command data) instructing processing contents to each of the sub control units 230 and 260, and each sub control unit 230, Reference numerals 260 and 280 are configured to perform various controls based on the command signal.

  The CPU 200b of the main control board 200a constituting the main control unit 200 includes a CPU core, a built-in RAM (hereinafter simply referred to as RAM), a built-in ROM (hereinafter also simply referred to as ROM), etc., and is stored in the ROM. The control program controls operation of the entire gaming machine 1 (basic progress control of the game) using the RAM as a work area. Further, the main control unit 200 is configured by a CPU 200b as a main body to determine whether or not a special symbol is determined (hit lottery) by a determination program stored in the ROM. Further, the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 determines a specific variation pattern from the variation pattern table of the special symbol stored in the ROM when executing the special symbol validity determination. Note that the control cycle of the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 of this embodiment is set to 2 ms.

  A board input relay board 201 and a board output relay board 202 are connected to the main controller 200. The board input relay board 201 is connected with a normal symbol operation gate detection switch 27 s, a start opening prize detection switch 28 s, and a big prize opening ball detection switch 33 s so that these signals are input to the main controller 200. It is configured. The board output relay board 202 is connected to the normal symbol display device 51, the special symbol display device 61, the start port solenoid 28c, and the big prize port solenoid 33c, and a control signal from the main control unit 200 is output.

  The payout control board 230a constituting the payout control unit 230 includes a CPU 230b having the same configuration as the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200. To the payout control unit 230, the launch control unit 250, the CR unit 13, and the like are connected. From the main control unit 200 to the payout control unit 230, commands such as a prize ball instruction command for instructing a prize ball payout, a game start permission signal for instructing a game start permission, and various launch control commands are transmitted. Various launch control commands include ball feed permission / prohibition, launch permission / prohibition, game start permission, and the like.

  When the CPU 230b of the payout control board 230a receives a prize ball instruction command from the main control unit 200, the CPU 230b of a game ball payout device (not shown) provided on the back side of the gaming machine 1 based on the number of prize balls indicated by the command. By paying off the payout motor, game balls are paid out (prize ball payout) for the designated number of prize balls. In this game ball payout (prize ball payout), game balls stored in a game ball tank (not shown) provided on the upper back side of the gaming machine 1 are supplied to a game ball payout device via a game ball rail (not shown). Then, the supplied game ball is discharged by rotating the payout motor of the game ball payout device.

  The firing control unit 250 is connected to a touch switch 8a, a firing stop switch 8b, and the like, and operation signals are input from these switches 8a and 8b. The CR unit 13 is connected to a ball lending button 5e and receives a ball lending signal.

  The sub-control unit 260 constitutes sub-control means for controlling various effects executed as the game progresses. The sub-control board 260a has a CPU 260b, a ROM, a RAM (not shown), an input / output port, etc. Circuit components and a sound generator are provided, and are connected to the main controller 200 at the input / output ports. The sub-control unit 260 is configured to control effect control using decoration display by various lamps, sound effects output from the speakers 10a to 10d, symbol display by the effect display device 25, and the like.

  Various lamp control commands and various audio control commands are transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260. Various symbol control control commands for instructing display control of the effect symbols are transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the effect display control unit 280 via the sub-control unit 260. Various effect display control commands for instructing effect display control are simultaneously transmitted from the sub control unit 260 to the effect display control unit 280.

  An effect display control unit 280 is connected to the sub control unit 260. The effect display control board 280a is provided with arithmetic circuit components (not shown) having a CPU 280b, RAM, ROM, input / output port, VDP (video display processor), etc. ing. An effect display device 25 is connected to the effect display control unit 280. The effect display control unit 280 is configured such that the CPU 280b performs display control of the effect display device 25 using the RAM as a work area according to a control program stored in the ROM. The ROM of the effect display control unit 280 stores a plurality of effect image data (such as the above-described image data related to the variation effect) displayed on the effect display device 25.

  Various LEDs and lamps 262 are connected to the sub-control unit 260 via a decorative drive board 261. The various LEDs / lamps 262 are for enhancing the gaming effect, and these lamps are turned on / off or blinking in accordance with the progress of the game to enhance the gaming effect. In addition, an amplifier substrate 263 is connected to the sub-control unit 260. Speakers 10 a to 10 d are connected to the amplifier substrate 263. From the speakers 10a to 10d, various sounds, sounds, and the like are output in accordance with the progress of the game. Further, the effect button 5 d is connected to the sub-control unit 260 via the effect button board 264.

  The sub-control unit 260 selects various LED / lamp lighting / flashing patterns based on various commands from the main control unit 200 and the production button 5d (reception of a production pattern designation command, input of a production button operation signal, etc.). An execution process, a selection / output process of sound effect data output from the speakers 10a to 10d, an effect display pattern selection / execution process on the effect display device 25, and the like are performed.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described based on a flowchart. FIG. 8 shows an example of a main job executed by the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 based on a program stored in a ROM built in the CPU 200b or a ROM mounted on the main control board 200a. The main job shown in FIG. 8 includes a game start process S200, a normal symbol game process S300, a normal electric game game process S400, a special symbol game process S500, and a jackpot game process S600 after executing the power-on process S100. It is repeatedly executed every time the timer is reset. In the power-off generation process S50, when a power-off occurs due to a power failure or the like, the used registers and stack pointers are saved, the payout motor is stopped, and so on, and when a system reset occurs, the process proceeds to the power-on process S100. It has become.

  The power-on process S100 is performed when the power is turned on and when the power is restored after the power is cut off. When the power is turned on, a RAM initialization process or the like is performed, and when the power is turned off, the game state is restored. The return setting is performed. In the game start process S200, detection of various switch states, update of various random numbers, prize ball control, and the like are performed.

  In the normal symbol game processing S300, first, whether or not the normal symbol is determined is determined, and the normal symbol display unit 51 (see FIG. 2) determines whether the normal symbol is to be stopped and displayed as a winning symbol or as a stop symbol. To do. Next, after setting the normal symbol fluctuation display time, the normal symbol fluctuation display is started. When the variable display time has elapsed, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed with the determined symbol, and when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed, the operation of the normal electric accessory is started (second start-up). The mouth 28b is opened). In the normal symbol game process, the normal symbol variation display and the stop display are performed as described above, and when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as the winning symbol, the second start port 28b is activated. When the second start port 28b is actuated, the pair of blade pieces open to the left and right, and the second start port 28b is opened.

  In the ordinary electric accessory game process S400, it is determined whether or not the opening time for maintaining the second start port 28b in the open state has elapsed. If the open time has not elapsed, the second start port 28b is defined. It is determined whether or not a winning number has been won. When it is determined that the predetermined number of winnings has been won at the second starting port 28b in the open state, or when it is determined that the opening time of the second starting port 28b in the open state has elapsed, a pair of The blade piece 28c is closed, and the second start port 28b is in a normal state (closed state).

  Next, the special symbol game process S500 will be described based on the flowcharts of FIGS. First, a start opening winning process is performed (S501). Here, the start opening winning process (S501) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  In the start opening winning process (S501), it is determined whether or not a winning (game ball has entered) is made at the starting opening 28 (the first starting opening 28a or the second starting opening 28b) (S501a). If it is determined that it has not been made (S501a: NO), the start opening winning process (S501) is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the start opening 28 has been won (S501a: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of special symbol reservations is less than 4 (S501b). As a result, when it is determined that the number of special symbol reservations is not less than 4 (4) (S501b: NO), the start opening winning process is terminated and it is determined that the number of special symbol reservations is less than 4. In this case (S501b: YES), a special symbol random number is acquired and stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM (S501c). The special symbol random numbers include a jackpot lottery random number, a special symbol determination random number (a jackpot symbol determination random number), a reach random number, a holding notice random number, and the like.

  Next, the special symbol holding number is increased by 1 (S501d), and a preliminary determination process is performed (S501e). In the pre-determination process, whether or not the special symbol random number acquired in the process of S501c is a random number corresponding to “hit hold” that causes the big hit game to start is determined in advance of the determination of success or failure in S508b described later. To do.

  Next, it is determined whether or not a holding notice effect is performed (S501e). The determination process of S501e is performed using the hold notice random number and the hold notice determination table (see FIG. 4) acquired in the process of S501c. As a result, when it is determined not to perform the hold notice effect (S501e: NO), the process proceeds to the processing of S501h described later, and when it is determined to perform the hold notice effect (S501e: YES), the hold is held. A notice counter is set (S501g). As described above, the number of special symbol reservation (a value after the number of special symbol reservation increases by 1 in the processing of S501d) is set in the reservation notice counter.

  Then, a start winning command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S501f). The “start winning command” includes a hold number designation command for designating a special symbol hold number, a pre-judgment result command indicating a jackpot pre-judgment result, a hold notice command for instructing whether or not to carry out a hold notice effect, etc. Each may be composed of separate commands, or may be composed of one command.

  Next, returning to FIG. 9A, it is determined whether or not a big hit game is being played (S502). As a result, when it is determined that a big hit game is being played (S502: YES), the special symbol game process is terminated, and it is determined that the big hit game is not being played (the big hit game flag and the small hit game flag are OFF). If it has been detected (S502: NO), it is determined whether or not the special symbol is changing (S503).

  As a result, if it is determined that the special symbol is changing (S503: YES), the process proceeds to S507 described later, and if it is determined that the special symbol is not changing (S503: NO). Then, it is determined whether or not it is during the special symbol stop display time (S504). Here, the stop display time of the special symbol is a time for determining the special symbol stopped and displayed. In this embodiment, the stop display time of the special symbol is “1 second”. If it is determined that it is during the special symbol stop display time (S504: YES), the process proceeds to S510 described later, and if it is determined that it is not during the special symbol stop display time (S504). : NO), it is determined whether or not the number of special symbol hold is zero (S505).

  As a result, when it is determined that the number of special symbol hold is zero (S505: YES), the special symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the number of special symbol reservations is not zero (S505: NO), special symbol variation display processing is performed (S506).

  Here, the special symbol variation related processing will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, a random number for determining whether or not a special symbol is stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (a random number for determining whether or not the game is successful when entering the start opening 28) (S506a). ), Special symbol winning / failing determination is performed (S506b). In the special symbol success / failure determination, if the probability variation function is operating (probability change game), the determination of success / failure at the time of probability variation, that is, the determination of success / failure in a state where the probability that the determination result is a big hit (high probability state) If it is determined that the probability variation function is not in operation (during normal game), it is determined whether or not there is a non-probability change, that is, whether the determination result is a big hit (low probability state). I do.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the determination result is a big hit (S506c). As a result, when it is determined that it is a big hit (S506c: YES), the big hit fluctuation pattern table is set (S506d), a fluctuation pattern determining random number is acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200. The winning design determination random number (the special design determination random number acquired when the game ball enters the start port 28) is read (S506e).

  On the other hand, when it is determined that it is out (S506c: NO), it is determined whether or not it is out of reach with reach effect (S506f). As a result, when it is out of reach accompanied by reach production (S506f: YES), a variation pattern table with reach out is set (506g), and when it is out of reach without reach production (506f: NO). ), A reachless deviation variation pattern table is set (S506h). Then, the fluctuation pattern determination random number and the off symbol determination random number are acquired (S506i).

Next, the variation pattern and the stop symbol of the special symbol are determined (S506j).
As the special symbol variation pattern, a specific variation pattern is selected from the variation pattern table set in any one of S506d, S506g, and S506h by using the special symbol variation pattern determination random number acquired in S506e or S506i. As the special symbol stop symbol, the special symbol stop symbol is determined as one of the probable big hit symbol, the normal big hit symbol, or the out symbol using the hit symbol determined random number read in S506e or the miss symbol determined random number acquired in S506i.

  Next, a variation time determination process is performed (S506k). Here, the variation time determination process (S506k) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the hold notice counter is decremented by 1 (S550), and it is determined whether or not the hold notice counter exceeds zero (S551). As a result, when it is determined that the hold notice counter is zero (S551: NO), it can be determined that the special symbol is displayed in a variable manner based on the special symbol hold that is the target of the hold notice effect. Regardless of the number of special symbols held at the start of the change, the change notice determination table for reservation notice (see FIG. 6) is set (S552).

  If it is determined in the determination process of S551 that the hold notice counter is greater than zero (S551: YES), it is determined whether or not the special symbol hold number is “1” (S553). As a result, when it is determined that the number of special symbol hold is “1” (S553: YES), the variable time determination table 1 (see FIG. 6) is set (S554). On the other hand, when it is determined that the special symbol hold number is not “1” (S553: NO), it is determined whether or not the special symbol hold number is “2” (S555).

  As a result, if it is determined that the number of special symbol reservations is “2” (S555: YES), the variable time determination table 2 (see FIG. 6) is set (S556). On the other hand, when it is determined that the special symbol hold number is not “2” (S555: NO), it is determined whether or not the special symbol hold number is “3” (S557).

  As a result, when it is determined that the number of special symbol reservations is “3” (S557: YES), the variable time determination table 3 (see FIG. 6) is set (S558). On the other hand, when it is determined that the number of special symbol reservations is not “3” (S557: NO), the variable time determination table 4 (see FIG. 6) is set (S559).

  Then, the variation time of the special symbol is determined using the variation time determination table set in any one of S552, S554, S556, S558, and S559 (S560).

  Next, returning to FIG. 11, according to the stop symbol and the variation pattern determined in S506j, the special symbol display unit 61 starts the variation display of the special symbol (S506l), and subtracts the special symbol hold number by 1 (S506m), A symbol change start command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S506n). The symbol variation start command includes a variation pattern designation command, a stop information designation command, and a hold number designation command. The special symbol variation pattern designation command is a command for designating the special symbol variation pattern set in S510j. The special symbol suspension information designation command is a command for designating the special symbol suspension symbol, and the number of holdings is designated. The command is a command for designating the number of special symbol reservations obtained by subtracting 1 in the processing of S506m.

  Next, returning to FIG. 9A, if it is determined in S503 that the special symbol is changing (S503: YES), whether or not the changing display time of the changing special symbol has elapsed. Is determined (S507). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol variation display time has not elapsed (S507: NO), it is determined that the special symbol game processing has ended and the special symbol variation display time has elapsed. In this case (S507: YES), the special symbol variation display is stopped (S508), a symbol stop command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S509), and the special symbol stop display time is set (S510).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed (S511). As a result, if it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has not elapsed (S511: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed. If it is determined (S510: YE1), it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol is a big hit symbol (S512 in FIG. 9B).

  As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol (S512: YES), the jackpot game flag is set to ON (S513). Thereby, the big hit game is started.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is ON (S514). If it is determined that the probability variation flag is ON (S514: YES), the probability variation flag is set to OFF (S515). Transition to processing. On the other hand, if it is determined that the probability variation flag is not ON (S514: NO), the process proceeds to S516.

  In the process of S516, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON. If it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not ON (S516: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S516: YES), the fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S517), and the release extension flag is set to OFF (S518). Thereby, with the start of the big hit game, the probability variation function, the variation time shortening function, and the open time extension function stop operating.

  Next, in the determination process of S512, if it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol is not a big hit symbol (S512: NO), it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S519). As a result, if it is determined that the variation shortening flag is not ON (S519: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and if it is determined that the variation shortening flag is ON (S519: YES), the variation shortening is performed. The counter is decremented by 1 (S520), and it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening counter has become zero (S521). The fluctuation shortening counter is for counting the operating period of the fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extending function, and is set in the process of S614 (see FIG. 13) described later according to the jackpot symbol after the jackpot game is over. .

  If it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is not zero (S521: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and if it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is zero (S521: YES), The fluctuation shortening flag is turned off (S522), and the open extension flag is turned off (S523). As a result, the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function are deactivated.

  Next, the jackpot game process (S600) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not the jackpot game is being played (whether or not the jackpot game flag is ON) (S601). As a result, when it is determined that the jackpot game is not being played (the jackpot game flag is OFF) (S601: NO), the jackpot game process is terminated and the jackpot game is being played (the jackpot game flag is ON). Is determined (S601: YES), it is determined whether or not the special winning opening 33a is being opened (S602). As a result, when it is determined that the special winning opening 33a is being opened (S602: YES), it is determined whether or not the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S603), and the special winning opening 33a is determined. When it is determined that the opening time has not elapsed (S603: NO), it is determined whether or not the specified winning number 33a has been won (whether or not the specified number of game balls have entered). (S604).

  As a result, if it is determined that the prescribed number of winnings has not been won in the big winning opening 33a (S604: NO), the jackpot game processing is terminated and the prescribed winning number has been won in the big winning opening 33a. When it is determined (S604: YES) or when it is determined that the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S603: YES), the special winning opening 33a is closed (S605).

  If it is determined in S602 that the special winning opening 33a is not being opened (S602: NO), it is determined whether or not the big hit game ending condition is satisfied (S606). The determination process of S606 determines whether or not the number of rounds of the big hit game has reached the maximum number of continuous rounds (15 rounds).

  As a result, when it is determined that the big hit game ending condition is not satisfied (S606: NO), it is determined whether or not the closing time (interval time) of the big winning opening 33a has passed (S607), When it is determined that the closing time of the big prize opening 33a has not elapsed (S607: NO), the big hit game process is terminated, and it is determined that the closing time of the big prize opening 33a has elapsed. (S607: YES), the special winning opening 33a is opened (S608).

  When it is determined in S606 that the big hit game ending condition is satisfied (S606: YES), the big hit game flag is set to OFF (S609). As a result, the big hit game ends.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the type of jackpot symbol that has caused the start of the terminated jackpot game is a probability variation jackpot symbol (S610).

  As a result, when it is determined that the type of jackpot symbol is “probability variation jackpot symbol” (S610: YES), the probability variation flag is set to ON (S611). As a result, the probability variation function starts to operate. On the other hand, when it is determined that the type of jackpot symbol is not “probable variation jackpot symbol” (“normally jackpot symbol”) (S610: NO), the probability variation flag is not set to ON (S611), The process proceeds to S612. Then, the fluctuation shortening flag is set to ON (S612), the opening extension flag is set to ON (S613), and values for determining the operating period of the varying time reduction function and the opening time extension function in the opening extension number counter (initial value) Value) is set (S614). As a result, the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function are activated. In this embodiment, when the type of jackpot symbol that triggered the terminated jackpot game is a probabilistic jackpot symbol (S610: YES), “10,000” is set to the open extension counter. In the case of a normal jackpot symbol (S610: NO), “100” is set in the open extension number counter. As a result, the probability variation function is activated after the end of the jackpot game triggered by the stop display of the probability variation jackpot symbol, and the variation time shortening function and the opening time extension until the number of variations of the special symbol reaches 10,000 times. The function is activated. That is, all of the probability variation function, variation time shortening function, and opening time extension function are operated until the next big hit game is started. In addition, the probability variation function does not operate after the end of the big hit game triggered by the normal jackpot symbol stop display, and the variable time shortening function and the open time extension function reach the number of times the special symbol changes to 100 times. It works until.

  Next, a special symbol reservation related process performed mainly by the sub-control unit 260 will be described. FIG. 14 shows a special symbol hold-related process executed by the sub-control unit 260 (the CPU 260b of the sub-control board 260a) based on a program stored in a ROM built in the CPU 260b or a ROM mounted on the sub-control board 260a. It is a flowchart showing the flow, and this processing is executed as a subroutine of a main routine (not shown) executed by the sub-control unit 260.

  First, it is determined whether or not a start winning command transmitted by the main control unit 200 in the process of S501h (see FIG. 10) has been received (S700). As a result, if it is determined that the start winning command has not been received (S700: NO), the special symbol hold-related process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the start winning command is received (S700: YES), the effect display device is based on the special symbol hold number specified by the hold number specifying command included in the start winning command. The number of special symbol holds displayed on the 25 hold display section 25d is updated (S701). The updated display of the hold display unit 25d is performed under the control of the effect display control unit 280 based on a command from the sub control unit 260.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the hold notice effect is performed based on the hold notice command included in the start winning prize command (S702). As a result, when it is determined not to perform the hold notice effect (S702: NO), the special symbol hold related process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the hold notice effect is to be performed (S702: YES), the hold notice effect of the type specified by the hold notice command is executed in the hold display unit 25d of the effect display device 25 (S703).

  Next, the symbol variation effect related processing performed mainly by the sub-control unit 260 will be described. FIG. 15 shows symbol variation effect-related processing executed by the sub-control unit 260 (the CPU 260b of the sub-control board 260a) based on a program stored in a ROM built in the CPU 260b or a ROM mounted on the sub-control board 260a. It is a flowchart showing the flow, and this processing is executed as a subroutine of a main routine (not shown) executed by the sub-control unit 260.

  First, it is determined whether or not a symbol variation start command (variation pattern designation command, stop information designation command) transmitted from the main control unit 200 in the process of S506n (see FIG. 11) has been received (S800). As a result, when it is determined that the symbol variation start command has not been received (S800: NO), the symbol variation effect related processing is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the symbol variation start command has been received (S800: YES), it is determined whether or not the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit (S801). The result of the special symbol success / failure determination can be determined by the type of stop symbol of the special symbol designated by the stop information designation command.

  As a result, when it is determined that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit (S801: YES), the effect design hit effect pattern and the hit stop symbol are set (S802). On the other hand, if it is determined that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is out (S801: NO), the off-direction effect pattern of the effect symbol and the off-stop symbol are set (S803).

  Next, symbol variation effect display using effect symbols is started in the display area of the effect display device 25 (S804), and the special symbol hold number displayed on the hold display unit 25d of the effect display device 25 is updated accordingly. (1 subtraction display) is performed (S805).

  Next, it is determined whether or not a symbol stop command transmitted from the main control unit 200 has been received in the process of S509 (see FIG. 9A) (S806). As a result, when it is determined that the symbol stop command has not been received (S806: NO), the standby state is maintained until the symbol stop command is received. On the other hand, when it is determined that the symbol stop command has been received (S806: YES), the symbol variation effect using the effect symbol is ended (S807).

  Here, the correspondence between the processing shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 9 to 15 and the present invention will be described. The processing in S501c (FIG. 10) corresponds to the “variation information storage means”, and “S505 to S505”. “Process of S508 (FIG. 9A)” corresponds to “Special Symbol Display Control Unit”, “Process of S506k (FIG. 11)” corresponds to “Variation Time Determination Unit”, and “Process of S501e” (FIG. 10). ) ”Corresponds to“ preliminary determination means ”,“ S501g and S550 processes (FIGS. 10 and 11) ”corresponds to“ counting means ”, and“ S501f to S501h, S702, and S703 processes (FIGS. 10 and 10). 14) "corresponds to" holding notice effect executing means ".

  According to the present embodiment described above, the hold notice counter is set when the hold notice effect is performed, and the hold notice counter is subtracted every time the special symbol is changed. Based on the special symbol hold that was subject to the notice effect, it is determined that the special symbol will be displayed fluctuatingly. Regardless of the number of special symbols held at that time, the change time of the special symbol using the hold notice change time determination table Is determined. As a result, when the special symbol is variably displayed based on the special symbol hold subject to the hold notice effect, it is possible to ensure a certain deviation fluctuation time without depending on the number of special symbol hold at that time. it can. As a result, the expectation of jackpot for the variable display corresponding to the hold notice effect can be maintained even during the special symbol variable display. In the conventional configuration, even if the variable display related to the hold notice effect is used, if the number of special symbol hold at that time is equal to or greater than a predetermined number and no reach occurs, the change display is extremely short (1 s). Therefore, it is not possible to have a sense of expectation for the big hit during the variable display (1 s). Furthermore, according to the configuration of the present embodiment, it is not necessary to consider whether or not the reach effect is executed based on the special symbol hold that is the target of the hold notice effect, and for the special symbol hold with the reach effect. Compared with the configuration in which only the hold notice effect is performed, the frequency of occurrence of the hold notice effect can be freely set regardless of the frequency of occurrence of the reach effect.

(Second embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. Hereinafter, description of the same parts as those of the first embodiment will be omitted, and only parts different from those of the first embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the start opening winning process of the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 10 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 16, in the second embodiment, when it is determined in S501f that the holding notice effect is to be performed (S501f: YES), a holding notice counter is set (S501g), and the holding notice is displayed. The number of holds is set (S501i). Similarly to the hold advance notice counter, the number of special symbol hold (the number of special symbol hold after the addition processing in the process of S501d) when the pre-determination process is performed is set in the hold advance notice hold number.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the variation time determination process of the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 12 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 17, in the second embodiment, when it is determined in the determination process of S551 that the holding notice counter is zero (S551: NO), a special symbol at the time when this determination process is performed. It is determined whether or not the number of holds exceeds the number of holds at the time of hold notice (S561).

  As a result, if it is determined that the number of special symbol hold exceeds the hold number at the time of hold notice (S561: YES), a change time determination table for hold notice is set (S552). On the other hand, when it is determined that the number of special symbol reservations does not exceed the number of reservations at the time of reservation notice (S561: NO), in the processing of S553 to S559, a variable time determination table according to the number of special symbol reservations at that time Set 1-4.

  According to the second embodiment described above, when the holding notice count becomes zero and the number of special symbols held at that time is larger than the number of holdings at the time of holding notice, the variable time determination table for holding notice is used. The change time of special symbols is determined. For this reason, the number of special symbol hold when the special symbol change display is performed based on the special symbol hold that is the target of the hold notice effect increases with respect to the special symbol hold number when the hold notice effect is executed. Only when it is, the pending notice variable time determination table is used. And the number of special symbols held when the special symbol change display is performed based on the special symbol hold that is the target of the hold notice effect is increased with respect to the number of special symbols held when the hold notice effect is executed. If not (the same number or below), the variable time determination tables 1 to 4 corresponding to the number of special symbol reservations are used.

  Here, the number of special symbols held when the holding notice effect is executed, and the number of special symbols held when the special symbol starts to fluctuate based on the special symbol holding subject to the holding notice effect are often not changed. it is conceivable that. For this reason, according to the second embodiment, it is possible to minimize the opportunity to determine the variation time of the special symbol using the pending notice variation time determination table. As a result, it is possible to avoid as much irregular processing as possible to determine the variation time of the special symbol using the variation time determination table for reservation advance notice that does not depend on the number of special symbol reservations.

  In addition, when the number of special symbol hold increases at the time when the special symbol change display is performed based on the special symbol hold that is the target of the hold notice effect, from the time when the hold notice effect is executed, When using the variation time determination tables 1 to 4 depending on the number of special symbols held, the variation time determination table (shortening variation time determination table) with a short variation time is likely to be selected. By using the table, it is possible to ensure a certain special symbol variation time. As a result, the player's sense of expectation can be maintained even during the special symbol variation display.

  Further, in this embodiment, the probability of occurrence of the hold notice effect is made different based on the number of special symbol holds when the pre-determination process is executed. The higher the number of special symbol reservations, the lower the probability of occurrence of an off-hold notification effect. Since the level of the nail adjustment of the gaming machine during the game is constant (because nail adjustment is not performed during the game), there are some fluctuations, but there are few special symbol hold numbers when executing the pre-judgment process It is considered that the number of special symbol reservations at the time when the special symbols start to fluctuate based on the special symbol reservation subject to the prior determination process is small. For this reason, even if the occurrence probability of the hold notice effect is increased when the number of special symbol reservations is small, it is highly likely that a change time determination table with a long change time will be selected. be able to.

  Further, in the configuration of the present embodiment, when the number of special symbols held at the time of performing the pre-determination process is a predetermined number (for example, 3) or more, the pre-determination process is not performed without executing the off-holding notice effect. When the number of special symbol reservations at the time of being performed is less than a predetermined number (in the case of 1 or 2), it may be possible to execute a hold-off notice effect at the time of release. In this case, if the number of special symbol reservations at the time of performing the pre-determination process is a predetermined number (for example, 3) or more, only the on-hold reservation notice effect is executed, and a special effect with a reach effect is performed. The hold notice effect is executed only for the symbol hold. Thereby, when the number of special symbol hold at the time of performing the pre-determination process is a predetermined number (for example, three) or more, the special symbol is variably displayed based on the special symbol hold that is the target of the hold notice effect. In this case, a long variation time can be secured.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. Hereinafter, description of the same parts as those of the first embodiment will be omitted, and only parts different from those of the first embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 18 shows a variation time determination table of the third embodiment, which corresponds to FIG. 4 of the first embodiment. In the first embodiment described above, the pending notice variation time determination table and the variation time determination table 1 (normal variation time determination table) used when the number of special symbol reservations is one have the same contents. In the third embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18, the average value of the variation time of the special symbol determined by the pending notice variation time determination table is determined by the variation time determination table 1 (normal variation time determination table). It is set to be longer than the average value of the fluctuation time of special symbols.

  With such a configuration, when the reservation notice effect is executed, the variation time of the special symbol becomes longer than when the number of special symbol reservations is small. For this reason, the expectation with respect to generation | occurrence | production of the jackpot by the special symbol hold | maintenance which became the object of the hold notice effect can be improved.

(Fourth embodiment)
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. Hereinafter, description of the same parts as those of the first embodiment will be omitted, and only parts different from those of the first embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 19 shows a variation time determination table of the fourth embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 6 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 19, in the fourth embodiment, there is no hold notice changing time determination table, and the change time determining table 1 used in the case of one special symbol hold number is used as the hold notice changing time. It is also configured to be used as a decision table.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the variable time setting process of the fourth embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 12 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 20, when it is determined in the determination process of S551 that the pending notice counter is zero (S551: NO), the variation time determination table 1 is set (S562). Is used to determine the variation time of the special symbol (S560).

  As described above, the variable time determination table 1 (the normal variable time determination table) is also used as the hold notice change time determination table, so that the change display based on the special symbol hold that is the target of the hold notice effect. It is not necessary to prepare a dedicated variation time determination table in order to determine the variation time of the special symbol to be performed.

(Other embodiments)
As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to this, Unless it deviates from the range described in each claim, it is not limited to the description word of each claim, and those skilled in the art Improvements based on the knowledge that a person skilled in the art normally has can be added as appropriate to the extent that they can be easily replaced.

  For example, in each of the above embodiments, the number of special symbols held when the holding notice effect is executed is set in the holding notice counter, and the holding notice counter is decremented by 1 for each special symbol change display, and the value of the holding notice counter is set. When the value becomes zero, the pending notice variation time determination table is set. However, the present invention is not limited to such a subtraction type counter, and the hold notice counter may be an addition type counter. In other words, the number of special symbol hold when the hold notice effect is executed is set as an upper limit value to be counted (counted) by the hold notice counter, and the hold notice counter is changed from 0 (initial value) every time the special symbol is changed. It may be configured to add one by one, and to set the pending notice change time determination table when the value of the hold notice counter reaches the above-described upper limit value.

  Moreover, in each said Example, as shown in FIG. 4, although comprised so that the execution probability of a hold notice effect might be varied according to the special symbol hold at the time of performing a prior judgment process, it is not restricted to this. Regardless of the special symbol hold when the determination process is executed, the execution probability of the hold notice effect may be constant.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, as the hold notice effect, it is configured to notify whether or not the special symbol win / fail determination result, that is, whether or not the special random number for determining whether or not the special symbol is held matches the winning value for generating the big hit. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when different types of jackpots are set, the type of jackpot may be notified by a holding notice effect.

  Specifically, the type of probability variation big hit or normal big hit (whether the reserved special symbol success / failure random number coincides with the hit value that generates the probability variation big hit or normal big hit) is notified by the hold notice effect. It can be constituted as follows. Alternatively, when there are a plurality of jackpot games having different maximum number of consecutive rounds (for example, a 15R jackpot game having a maximum number of rounds of 15 and a 2R jackpot game having a maximum number of rounds of 2), a 15R jackpot game is provided. And 2R jackpot game type (whether the reserved special symbol success / failure determination random number coincides with the hit value for generating 15R jackpot or 2R jackpot) may be notified.

  Moreover, although the said Example demonstrated the case where one kind of special symbol was used, you may provide not only this but two or more special symbols. For example, the first starting port 28a and the second starting port 28b are provided as starting ports, and when a game ball enters the first starting port 28a, a first special symbol random number (first symbol variation information) is given. When the first special symbol random number is stored, the first special symbol success / failure determination is executed when the first special symbol random number is stored, and the first special symbol is subjected to variable display and stop display according to the result of the first special symbol success / failure determination Let Similarly, when a game ball enters the second start port 28b, the second special symbol random number (second symbol variation information) is acquired and stored, and the second special symbol random number is stored. The second special symbol success / failure determination is executed, and the second special symbol is variably displayed and stopped according to the result of the second special symbol success / failure determination. In this case, the holding notice effect of the present invention can be performed on either or either of the first special symbol random number and the second special symbol random number.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the circle figure “◯” displayed in the display area of the effect symbol display device 25 as the notice of holding notice is changed to the star figure “☆”, thereby “ "" Is suggested to exist, but the hold notice effect may be different. For example, the hold notice effect can be executed, for example, by displaying a character image or by letting an appearing character speak.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine, 25 ... Production | presentation display apparatus, 25d ... Hold display part, 28 ... Start-up opening, 61 ... Special symbol display part (symbol display part), 200 ... Main control part (Fluctuation information storage means, Special symbol display control means) , Jackpot game execution means, change time determination table storage means, change time determination means, prior determination means, hold notice effect execution means, counting means), 260... Sub-control unit (hold notice effect execution means).

Claims (4)

Fluctuation information storage means for acquiring and storing symbol fluctuation information based on the game ball entering the starting port;
Pre-determination means for performing a pre-determination as to whether or not the symbol variation information for which variation start conditions are not satisfied is specific variation information;
A hold notice effect execution means for executing a hold notice effect that suggests the result of the prior decision by the prior decision means;
Triggered by the execution of the hold notice effect, a counting means for counting the number of times the symbol is displayed,
A variation time determination table storage means for storing a shortened variation variation time determination table used when the symbol variation information stored in the variation information storage means is a predetermined number or more, and a pending notice variation time determination table;
A variation time determining means for determining a variation time of the symbol using a variation time determination table stored in the variation time determination table storage means;
When the variation start condition of the symbol variation information is satisfied, a symbol display control means for stopping and displaying after the symbol is variably displayed on the symbol display unit,
The average value of the variation time of the special symbol stored in the change time determination table for holding advance notice is longer than the average value of the variation time of the special symbol stored in the variation time determination table for shortening variation. Is set,
The variation time determining means determines that the symbol is variably displayed based on the symbol variation information that is the subject of the hold notice effect based on the count by the counting means, and when the determination is performed When the number of symbol variation information of the symbol is larger than the number of symbol variation information when the hold notice effect is executed, the variation time of the special symbol is determined using the change time determination table for hold notice. A gaming machine characterized by that. The variation time determination table storage means stores a normal variation time determination table used when the number of the symbol variation information stored in the variation information storage means is less than the predetermined number,
The average value of the symbol variation time stored in the normal variation time determination table is set to be longer than the average value of the symbol variation time stored in the shortened variation variation time determination table. And
The average value of the symbol variation time determined by the pending notice variation time determination table is set to be longer than the average value of the symbol variation time determined by the normal variation time determination table. The gaming machine according to claim 1. The variation time determination table storage means stores a normal variation time determination table used when the number of symbol variation information stored in the variation information storage means is less than the predetermined value,
The average value of the symbol variation time stored in the normal variation time determination table is set to be longer than the average value of the symbol variation time stored in the shortened variation variation time determination table. And
The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the normal variation time determination table is used as the hold notice variation time determination table. The holding notice effect executing means is configured to determine whether or not to execute the holding notice effect by lottery,
The hold notice effect executing means increases the probability of executing the hold notice effect as the number of the symbol variation information stored in the change information storage means when the prior determination is executed is smaller. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the gaming machine is set as described above.

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