JP2013066626A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To vary a load amount of a presentation button without loss of operation timing of the presentation button in a game machine for performing a button presentation using the presentation button.SOLUTION: The game machine determines winning or losing following start of a pattern variation game, and executes a jackpot game advantageous to a player as a result of the pattern variation game in case that winning/losing determination results in winning. The game machine includes the presentation button pressingly operated by a player, a touch detection means of detecting a contact to the presentation button, and a load amount variation means of varying a load amount required for pressingly operating the presentation button between a normal state and a variable state. Further, the game machine may include an operation instruction means of instructing the player to operate the presentation button at predetermined timing, and a button presentation performing means of changing presentation when the touch detection means detects the contact to the presentation button at predetermined timing.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly to a pachinko gaming machine.

  An effect button for a player to participate in an effect executed by the effect display device is provided on the frame of the gaming machine. In the production using the production button, the player operates the production button according to the production button operation command instructed from the gaming machine side, and the production display displayed after the button operation informs the possibility of a big hit ( (Suggest) is being done. The operation button operation command by the gaming machine includes a request that simply operates the effect button within a predetermined period, a request that requires a predetermined number of operations (continuous hits) of the effect button within a predetermined period, a pattern or a character There are those that require the effect button to be operated with a predetermined timing (reach symbol or specific character) at a predetermined timing in a state where the symbol is variably displayed.

  In addition, in a spinning-type game machine, there is known a gaming machine that changes the amount of load required for pressing the rotation-stop button depending on the gaming state and notifies that it has won internally (see Patent Document 1). ).

JP 2005-143620 A

  Although it is conceivable to apply the technology for changing the load amount of the spinning cylinder stop button described in Patent Document 1 to the effect button of the pachinko machine, the normal effect button is pressed (pressed) by a predetermined amount Therefore, the following problems may occur.

  For example, when a command to operate the effect button at a predetermined timing is given from the gaming machine side, in order to operate the effect button at the timing aimed by the player, the effect button is placed at the timing aimed by the player. It is necessary to push a certain amount. However, if the load amount of the effect button is changed, the time required for pressing the predetermined amount changes, so that the timing originally intended by the player and the timing at which the operation of the effect button is actually detected may be shifted. There is. As a result, if the command can be achieved, there is a disadvantage that it is impossible to see the effect that should have been originally seen. Further, as a result of an increase in the load amount of the effect button, it may be difficult to achieve a command for performing a predetermined number of operations (continuous hits) within a predetermined period.

  In addition, it is effective to raise the gaming interest of the player by changing the load amount of the production button, but it is effective for a predetermined timing according to a command from the gaming machine side. For the player who is operating the effect button, the change in the load amount hinders the button operation aiming at the timing, and there is a possibility that the gaming interest is reduced.

  Therefore, in view of the above points, the present invention aims to change the load amount of the effect button in a gaming machine that performs an effect using the effect button without impairing the operation timing of the effect button.

In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention provides:
A win / hit determination is performed based on the game ball entering the starting port. If the result of the determination is a win, the symbol change game is executed to stop and display the win symbol, which is advantageous to the player. In gaming machines that execute
Production buttons that can be pressed by the player,
Touch detection means for detecting that the effect button has been touched;
Load amount changing means for changing a load amount necessary for pressing the effect button by a predetermined amount between a normal state and a change state in which the load amount is different from the normal state;
The load amount changing means changes the load amount to the changing state when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

  In this way, by providing the touch detection means for detecting that the effect button has been touched, it is possible to detect that the effect button has been operated based on the detection result of the touch detection means. That is, it is possible to press the effect button by a predetermined amount by the pressing operation, but without changing the effect button, the effect button changes to an ongoing effect on the condition that the effect button is touched (as an opportunity). Can be given. Thereby, in the structure which can adjust the load amount of an effect button freely, operation of an effect button can be performed at the operation timing which the player aimed, without shifting the timing which the operativity of an effect button is detected.

  Further, in addition to this configuration, when the operation instruction means for instructing the player to operate the effect button or the touch detection means detects that the player touches the effect button, it is executed on the gaming machine. It is possible to provide a button effect executing means for changing the effect.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention,
Providing a probability variation means for improving the winning probability of the success / failure determination,
The load amount changing means changes the load amount to the changing state when the winning probability of the determination of success / failure is improved by the probability changing means.

  Thereby, based on the fluctuation | variation of the load amount of an effect button, the operation state of a probability fluctuation | variation means can be recognized, and a game entertainment can be improved.

In addition, the gaming machine of the present invention,
The load amount changing means changes the load amount to the change state when the result of the determination is correct.

  Thereby, based on the fluctuation | variation of the load amount of a production | presentation button, the result of a decision | availability determination can be recognized and a game interest can be improved.

  According to the above configuration of the present invention, in a gaming machine that performs a button effect using an effect button, a load necessary for pressing the effect button by a predetermined amount without impairing the timing at which the operation of the effect button is detected. The amount can be varied.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment to which the present invention is applied. It is sectional drawing of an effect button. It is a top view of a button main-body part. It is a front view of a game board. 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 the first half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the second half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol fluctuation display related process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit game process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit game effect process. It is a load determination table for determining the load amount of a production button. It is sectional drawing which shows the modification of an effect button.

(First embodiment)
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described 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 an outer 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 outer frame 2 is a wooden plate-like body assembled into a substantially rectangular frame shape. The middle frame 3 is made of plastic and constitutes the main body frame of the gaming machine 1. The middle frame 3 is fitted inside the outer 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 includes 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. Note that the game board 20 is detachably attached to the frame body portion (the middle frame 3). 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 according to the progress of the game in order to enhance the game 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. An effect button 5d, a ball lending button 5e, and the like are provided on the upper surface of the dish outer edge 5a. The configuration of the effect button 5d will be described later in detail.

  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 as contact detection means 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.

  Here, the configuration of the effect button 5d will be described. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the effect button 5d. The effect button 5d is biased to the reference position by the biasing force of the spring 307. Then, the player moves downward (backward) from the reference position by pressing, and is configured as a retractable push button that moves upward (forward) and returns to the reference position by releasing the press. Has been. The effect button 5d is used when performing a button effect described later.

  The effect button 5d includes a button main body 300 that is pressed by the player. The button main body portion 300 is inserted into an opening provided in the upper plate portion 5, and moves (in the back direction) with respect to the upper plate portion 5 when the player performs a pressing operation. A base 301 fixed to the upper plate 5 is provided at the bottom of the button main body 300. The base 301 is provided with an LED 302 so as to be positioned inside the button main body 300. The button main body 300 is made of a light-transmitting material (for example, resin) and can transmit light generated by the LED 302. Thereby, the light generated by the LED 302 can be visually recognized from the upper surface of the button main body 300.

  On the upper surface of the button main body 300, a touch sensor 303 that detects that the player has touched is provided. In this embodiment, a capacitive touch sensor 303 is used. FIG. 3 is a plan view of the button main body 300, and FIGS. 3A and 3B show specific examples in which the wiring patterns of the conductive portion 303a of the touch sensor 303 are different from each other. ) And (b) indicate the arrangement of the touch sensor 303. The touch signal of the touch sensor 303 is input to the sub-control unit 260, and the sub-control unit 260 can detect the operation of the effect button 5d based on the touch signal of the touch sensor 303. The touch sensor 303 corresponds to the “touch detection unit” of the present invention.

  As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, a conduction portion 303 a of the touch sensor 303 is provided on the upper surface of the button main body portion 300. And between the conduction | electrical_connection part 303a provided in the peripheral part and the center part (other part) is made into the translucent resin part (translucent part 300a). Accordingly, a clearance (translucent portion 300a) where the touch sensor 303 is not disposed is provided on the upper surface of the button main body, and light from the LED 302 can be transmitted from the portion, and the player touches the button (press operation) The contact (pressing operation) can be reliably detected. Further, in the example shown in FIG. 3A, the conduction portion 303 a of the touch sensor 303 is provided on the upper surface of the button main body 300 so as to connect the peripheral portion, the central portion, and these portions. In the example illustrated in FIG. 3B, the conductive portion 303 a of the touch sensor 303 is provided in a spiral shape on the upper surface of the button main body portion 300. Thereby, the clearance gap part (translucent part 300a) in which the conduction | electrical_connection part 303a is not arrange | positioned can also be provided helically. Thereby, the contact (pressing operation) of the player with the button can be reliably detected, and the light of the LED 302 can be transmitted through the upper surface of the button main body 300 as a whole. 3A and 3B, the conduction portion 303a of the touch sensor 303 is provided on a part of the upper surface of the button main body 300. For this reason, the part where the conduction part 303a of the touch sensor 303 is not provided on the upper surface of the button body part 300 is configured as a translucent part 300a that transmits the light of the LED 302.

  Returning to FIG. 2, a permanent magnet 306, a spring 307, and an electromagnet 308 are stacked between the button main body 300 and the base 301. A permanent magnet 306 is fixed to one end of the spring 307, and an electromagnet 308 is fixed to the other end of the spring 307. In the example shown in FIG. 4, a permanent magnet 306 is provided on the button body 300 side, and an electromagnet 308 is provided on the base 301 side. These permanent magnets 306, springs 307, and electromagnets 308 apply a load (counterforce) in a direction opposite to the direction in which the button main body 300 is pressed by the player, and change the load amount to change the load amount. Part. This load amount variation portion (permanent magnet 306, spring 307, electromagnet 308) corresponds to the “load amount variation means” of the present invention.

  The electromagnet 308 generates magnetism when excited, and a magnetic repulsive force is generated between the electromagnet 308 and the permanent magnet 306. For this reason, when the electromagnet 308 is not energized, only the elastic force of the spring 307 becomes a load amount necessary for pressing the button main body 300 (this state corresponds to the “normal state” of the present invention). When the electromagnet 308 is excited, the resultant force of the elastic force of the spring 307 and the magnetic repulsive force generated between the permanent magnet 306 and the electromagnet 308 becomes a load amount when the button body 300 is pressed (this state). Corresponds to the “fluctuating state” of the present invention). For this reason, the load amount of the button main body 300 when the electromagnet 308 is excited is larger than the load amount of the button main body 300 when the electromagnet 308 is not excited. That is, the load amount of the button main body 300 can be adjusted by switching the excitation state of the electromagnet 308. The electromagnet 308 is excited by the control process of the sub-control unit 260.

  Next, the surface structure of the game board 20 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 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. 4, a substantially circular gaming area 21 is formed on the gaming board 20 by an outer rail 22 and an inner rail 23 provided on the surface (board surface) of the gaming board 20. In the game area 21, the central device 24, the normal symbol operating gate 27, the big winning device 33, the starting port 28, the left winning ports 34 and 35, the right winning ports 36 and 37, the first decorative member 50, and the second decorative member. A gaming device such as 60 is arranged. 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 arranged at a substantially central portion of the game area 21 and includes an effect display device 25 on the inner side (inner peripheral side). The effect display device 25 is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game area 21. In the present embodiment, a 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 prize 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, and the second decoration device 60 is arranged in the game area 21. It is arranged on the right side of the big winning device 33. The decoration devices 50 and 60 constitute a so-called side decoration. 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. 5) for detecting the passage of the game ball flowing down on the game board 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. The opening and closing of the second start port 28b is controlled by the main control unit 200.

  In the start port 28, a start port entrance detection switch 28s (see FIG. 5) for detecting the entrance of a game ball into the first start port 28a or the second start port 28b and a pair of wing pieces are operated. And a start opening solenoid 28c (see FIG. 5). 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). When the game ball enters one of the first start port 28a and the second start port 28b, a special symbol described later starts to fluctuate. In the following description, the description that “the game ball enters the start port 28” means that the game ball enters the first start port 28a or the second start port 28b unless otherwise specified. means.

  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). 5) and an incoming ball detection switch 33s (see FIG. 5) for detecting an 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. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the preset normal symbol display mode, the second start port 28b is opened according to a predetermined opening pattern. A plurality of opening patterns of the second start port 28b are set. When the opening time extending function for extending the opening time of the second start port 28b is not in operation (normal time), a short opening pattern in which a first opening time (for example, 0.2 seconds) is set is set and opened. When the time extension function is activated, a long-time opening pattern in which a second opening time (for example, 5 seconds) longer than the first opening time is set is set.

  In the present embodiment, a random number for determining normal symbol success / failure is prepared, and this random number for determining normal symbol determination is acquired when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27, and the second start port 28b. Is used to determine whether or not to operate a normal symbol (whether or not to make it open). A hit value is set in advance for the random number for normal symbol success / failure determination, and a hit is determined when the random number for normal symbol success / failure determination obtained at the timing when the game ball passes the normal symbol operation gate 27 matches the winning value. Is done. When it is determined that the normal symbol is determined to be a win, the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display unit 51 is determined as the display mode of the 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.

  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. 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.

  The determination of whether or not the normal symbol is determined, the determination of the stop symbol of the normal symbol, the setting of the variation pattern of the normal symbol, the holding of the normal symbol and the holding of the normal symbol are performed by the main control unit 200 described later.

  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. And among the special symbol combinations displayed by the seven LEDs, a specific combination is set as a big hit symbol (big hit special symbol), and other than the big hit symbol is set as an out symbol (out special symbol) . In this embodiment, the special symbol variation display is performed by blinking display in which each LED is repeatedly turned on and off.

  Next, when the game ball enters the start port 28 (the first start port 28a or the second start port 28b), the special symbol starts to fluctuate in the special symbol display unit 61, and the special symbol is a big hit after a predetermined time elapses. A symbol variation game that is stopped and displayed in a symbol or out-of-sequence symbol is performed.

  In the present embodiment, a special symbol success / failure random number is provided that is acquired when a game ball enters the start port 28 and is used to determine whether or not to execute a winning game (special game). Yes. Furthermore, a special symbol determining random number used for determining the stop symbol of the special symbol is provided. As the game ball enters the start port 28, a special symbol success / failure determination random number and a special symbol determination random number are acquired, and the acquired special symbol success / failure determination random number and the special symbol determination random number are the main control. Is stored as a hold in a predetermined area (hold storage area) of the RAM of the unit 200.

  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 starting port 28 can be reserved until the maximum number of reservations (four in this embodiment) is reached as the number of special symbol reservations. The special symbol hold number is acquired every time a game ball enters the start port 28 and is stored in a predetermined area (hold storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (special symbol success / failure). This corresponds to the number of random numbers for determination and random numbers for determining special symbols. In this embodiment, the special symbol determination random number is acquired together with the special symbol success / failure random number as the game ball enters the start port 28. Therefore, the special symbol hold number is the number of stored special symbol determination random numbers. It corresponds to. The number of special symbol reservations is digested each time a special symbol success / failure determination is performed and the variation display of the special symbol is started, and decreases by one. The special symbol holding storage and holding digest are performed by the main control unit 200 described later.

  The special symbol success / failure determination random number is set with a winning value for determination of success / failure determination, and the special symbol success / failure determination random number acquired at the timing when the game ball enters the first start port 28a or the second start port 28b. Is determined to be a big hit if it matches the winning value. The special symbol success / failure determination is performed when the special symbol starts the variable display.

  When the special symbol success / failure determination random number matches the winning value, it is determined to be a big hit, and the special symbol that is stopped and displayed by the special symbol display unit 61 is determined as the big hit symbol. On the other hand, if the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is not a big win, the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is out of order, and the special symbol that is stopped and displayed in the special symbol display unit 61 is determined to be out of symbol.

  The special symbol is configured to change and display according to a predetermined change pattern. This variation pattern specifies the variation time of the special symbol and the presence / absence (effect content) of the reach effect or the notice effect in the variation, and multiple types of variation patterns are associated with the random number for determining the variation pattern. Included in the pattern table. The special symbol variation pattern is selected by lottery from the variation pattern table when the special symbol success / failure determination is executed and the variation display of the special symbol is started. A plurality of special symbol variation pattern tables are prepared, and each is selected and used according to the gaming state.

  Further, the determination of whether or not the special symbol is determined, the determination of the variation pattern of the special symbol, the determination of the stop symbol of the special symbol, the variation display of the special symbol and the stop display (symbol variation game) are performed by the main control unit 200 described later Has been.

  Next, the jackpot game (special game) will be described. When the special symbol stopped and displayed in the special symbol display unit 61 is the above-mentioned jackpot symbol (when the result of the special symbol determination is a big hit), the main control unit 200 as a jackpot game execution means gives the player A relatively advantageous jackpot game (special game) is started. 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. It is. The jackpot game is realized by repeatedly executing a jackpot game process described later.

  During the big hit game (during special game), the big prize device 33 is operated, and a predetermined number of prize balls (for example, 15 for one pitch) according to the number of game balls entered into the big prize opening 33a. Award balls). Specifically, the big winning opening / closing operation for continuously operating the big winning device 33 and switching the big winning opening 33a between the open state and the closed state is continuously performed a plurality of times by the start of the big hit game. 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 opening time (30 seconds in the present embodiment), or the number of game balls that have entered the open large winning opening 33a is a predetermined number (this number In the embodiment, it is possible to reach 10).

  In the case where one round game is performed from the start to the end of the open state of the big winning opening 33a, the big hit game is ended when a predetermined number of round games are performed. In the grand prize winning device 33, after the opening of the big prize winning opening 33a is completed, that is, after a predetermined interval time (2 seconds in this embodiment) has elapsed since the grand prize winning opening 33a is closed, the special winning prize opening 33a is again opened. The game is opened and the next round game starts. 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 the present embodiment, after the big hit game is finished, a specific game (so-called time-short game or probability variable game) in which the variable time shortening function, the open time extending function, and the probability varying function are activated is started. The variable time shortening function, the opening time extending function, and the probability varying function operate by setting the fluctuation shortening flag, the opening extension flag, and the probability changing flag to ON, respectively. The variable time shortening function and the open time extending function start simultaneously and end simultaneously. In the following description, when only one of the functions related to the operating state of the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function is described, the other function is also paired. For example, when it is described in the following description that “the variable time shortening function is operating”, this description can be interpreted as “the opening time extending function is also operating”. When it is described that “the function is operating”, this description can be understood as “the variable time reduction function is operating”.

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit, and the special symbol stop symbol is a normal big hit symbol (in the case of a normal big hit), the fluctuation time is shortened after the big hit game ends. The function and the opening time extending function for extending the opening time of the second start port 28b beyond the normal setting time (normal time) are started, and the time-saving game is started. The short-time game is realized by the control of the main control unit 200. By the operation of the opening time extension function, the opening time of the second start port 28b is extended from the first opening time (for example, 0.2 seconds) to the second opening time (for example, 5 seconds). As a result, the frequency of entering the game ball into the second start port 28b is higher than that at normal time (when the opening time extension function is not activated). 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). .

  In addition, if the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit and the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probable big hit symbol (in the case of a probable big hit), the probability variation function starts operating after the big hit game ends, 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, the probability that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit, that is, the probability that the special symbol is stopped and displayed with the big hit symbol is changed (improved). The probability variation function is activated. A gaming state in which the probability variation function is activated is referred to as a “high probability state” or a “probability variation state”. In the present embodiment, after the jackpot game related to the probability variation jackpot is completed, the “high probability state (probability variation state)” is set until the next jackpot game is started. A gaming state in which the probability variation function is not activated and the variation time shortening function and the opening time extension function are activated is referred to as a “short time state”, and the probability variation function, the variation time shortening function, and the opening time extension function are A gaming state in which everything is not operating is referred to as a “normal state”. Also, among the “probability change states”, the probability change state that occurs after notifying the player that the probability variation function is operating is referred to as the “normal probability change state”, and the fact that the probability change function is operating The probability variation state that occurs without notifying the person is called a “latent probability variation state”. In both “short-time state” and “latency probability change state”, the fluctuation time reduction function and the open time extension function are activated, so it is unclear whether the game state is “short-time state” or “latency probability change state”. Can do.

  While the probability variation function is in operation, the probability of winning the special symbol success / failure determination increases as the jackpot winning value for the special symbol success / failure determination increases. Specifically, a low probability lottery table and a high probability lottery table in which the number of jackpot winning values is set larger than that of the low probability lottery table are prepared as the lottery tables in which the big hit winning value is set. And, when the probability variation function is not activated, the probability that the random number for special symbol success / failure determination matches the jackpot winning value becomes low by performing the special symbol success / failure determination using the low probability lottery table, and when the probability variation function is activated, By performing the special symbol success / failure determination using the high probability lottery table, the probability that the special symbol success / failure random number matches the jackpot winning value becomes high.

  The variation time shortening function, the open time extension function, and the probability variation function are realized by the control of the main control unit 200, and the main control unit 200 constitutes a probability variation unit.

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, a symbol change effect is performed on the effect display device 25 in association with a special symbol change game performed using the special symbol display unit 61. As the symbol variation effect, for example, a variation display effect for variably displaying an effect symbol composed of numeric symbols in conjunction with a variation display of the special symbol on the special symbol display unit 61, a reach effect performed during the variation display of the effect symbol, etc. Is mentioned. Note that there are a plurality of types of effect contents, and effect image data is stored in the ROM of the effect display control unit 280.

  Here, the symbol variation effect realized under the control of the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 described later will be described. As shown in FIG. 4, the display area of the effect display device 25 is provided with an effect symbol display unit 25a for displaying the effect symbols. The effect symbol of the effect symbol display unit 25a is displayed in conjunction with the special symbol of the special symbol display unit 61. Moreover, the site | part except the effect design display part 25a among the display screens of the effect display apparatus 25 is a background display area in which various background designs including a character, a figure, a symbol, a character, etc. are displayed. As described above, the effect display device 25 is arranged in the center of the game board 20 (game area 21), so that the player usually displays contents (particularly effect symbols) in the display area of the effect display device 25. The game will be played with attention.

  In this embodiment, a three-digit number symbol consisting of “1” to “9” is used as the effect symbol, and the effect symbol display unit 25a displays a right symbol display area in which the right symbol is displayed, and a middle symbol. The middle symbol display area and the left symbol display area where the left symbol is displayed are composed of three symbol display areas. Each symbol display area has a symbol variation direction set in a direction substantially orthogonal to the arrangement direction of these display areas, in this case, in the vertical direction (vertical direction).

  When the special symbol is displayed on the special symbol display unit 61 by the start of the special symbol variation display, and the special symbol is stopped and displayed on either the big hit symbol or the off symbol symbol, the special symbol is a special symbol. The display is stopped with a symbol corresponding to the stop symbol. As a result, the result of the special symbol success / failure determination ("big hit" or "off") is notified by the effect symbol. In this example, among the stop symbols of the production symbols, the combination of symbols that are the same in three digits corresponds to the special symbol “big hit symbol (normal jackpot symbol or probability variable big hit symbol)”, and other symbol combinations are special symbols. This corresponds to the “out-of-line design”. In other words, in this embodiment, even when the special symbol is stopped and displayed with a probable big hit symbol, the symbol variation effect performed using the effect symbol is not notified that the probability variation function is activated. Yes.

  The symbol variation effects such as the variation display effect and the reach effect of the effect symbols are sub-based on the variation start command (variation pattern designation command and stop information designation command) transmitted from the main control unit 200 when the variation of the special symbol starts. It is configured to be performed under the control of the control unit 260. That is, the setting of the effect content performed in the symbol variation effect and the execution of the symbol variation effect are performed by the sub-control unit 260. Further, the effect content (effect pattern) of the symbol variation effect is set at the start of the symbol variation effect based on the determination result of the special symbol.

  Here, the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 indicates the variation pattern of the special symbol. Specifically, the variation time of the special symbol and the presence / absence of the reach effect The contents of the production 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. Then, based on the special symbol variation pattern determined by the main control unit 200, the sub-control unit 260 determines an effect design effect pattern (design variation effect effect pattern) displayed on the effect symbol display unit 25a. Further, the stop information designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 indicates a special symbol stop symbol, and the main control unit 200 determines whether the special symbol is determined according to the result of the special symbol determination. A stop symbol is determined at random (by random number lottery). Then, based on the stop information designation command indicating the stop symbol of the special symbol determined by the main control unit 200, the sub control unit 260 determines the stop symbol of the effect symbol to be stopped and displayed on the effect symbol display unit 25a.

  In this embodiment, a button effect using the effect button 5d is performed. The button effect is an effect that allows the player to change the effect display on the effect display device 25 by operating the effect button 5d. As a button effect, for example, during the progress of a series of story effects using a character in the display area of the effect display device 25, an effect of selecting the direction in which the character travels by operating the effect button 5d, or an operation of the effect button 5d. For example, an effect of attacking an enemy character. In the story effect performed using the effect display device 25, a button operation effective period in which the effect can be changed based on the operation of the effect button 5d is set in advance within the execution period.

  The button operation valid period is a fixed time set in advance, and if the effect button 5d is not operated within the button operation valid period, the operation of the effect button 5d becomes invalid and the button effect ends. . Further, during the button operation effective period, a button operation instruction effect instructing to operate the effect button 5d is performed within a predetermined period (at a predetermined timing). The button operation instruction effect can be performed, for example, by displaying a message instructing to operate the effect button 5d within a predetermined period in the display area of the effect display device 25. During the button operation effective period, the fact that the operation of the effect button 5d is enabled can be notified by turning on the LED 302 of the effect button 5d. The button operation instruction effect is configured to be performed under the control of the sub-control unit 260, and the sub-control unit 260 corresponds to the “operation instruction unit” of the present invention.

  The button effect of the present embodiment is performed during a symbol variation game in which no big hit game is performed. And in the button production of a present Example, when the predetermined condition is satisfied, it is comprised so that the load amount at the time of pressing operation of the production button 5d may be fluctuated. In this embodiment, the “predetermined condition” is established when the “latency probability variation state” is established. That is, the button effect is configured to notify (suggest) the operating state (the latent probability changing state or the short time state) of the probability variation function according to the load amount when the effect button 5d is pressed.

  For this reason, the button effect of the present embodiment is performed in the “short time state” or “latency probability changing state” in which the operation state of the probability changing function is unknown. Specifically, when the button effect is performed in the short time state, the electromagnet 308 of the effect button 5d is not excited, and the load amount of the effect button 5d is in the “normal state” including only the elastic force of the spring 306. On the other hand, when the button effect is performed in the latent probability changing state, the electromagnet 308 of the effect button 5d is excited, so that the magnetic repulsive force generated between the permanent magnet 306 and the electromagnet 308 is added to the elastic force of the spring 306. Thus, the load state of the effect button 5d increases from the “normal state” to the “fluctuating state”. Thereby, the player can recognize the operating state of the probability variation function based on the load amount when pressing the effect button 5d.

  The execution of the button effect is performed under the control of a CPU 260a of a sub control board 260, which will be described later, and the CPU 260a of the sub control board 260 corresponds to the “button effect executing means” of the present invention.

  Next, the electronic control device of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the electronic control unit.

  As shown in FIG. 5, 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. In addition, the main control unit 200 constitutes a right / wrong determination execution unit that determines whether a special symbol is right or wrong by a right / left determination program stored in the ROM, with the CPU 200b as a main body. 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 4 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 a normal symbol display section 51 (one LED), a special symbol display section 61 (seven LEDs), a start opening solenoid 28c, and a big prize opening solenoid 33c. A control signal from the 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.

  A touch switch 8a and a firing stop switch 8b are connected to the firing control unit 250. When the player touches the firing handle 8, a touch signal is input from the touch switch 8a, and the player operates the firing stop switch 8b. By doing (pressing), a firing stop signal is input from the firing stop switch 8b.

  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 (CPU 260b) is configured to control effect control using decoration display by various lamps, sound effects output from the speakers 10a to 10d, display of effect symbols by the effect display device 25, and the like. .

  From the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260, various symbol control commands (variation pattern designation command, stop information designation command, symbol stop command, etc.) related to special symbol variation display, various lamp control commands, and various voice control commands Is sent. 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. An effect display control unit 280 is connected to the sub control unit 260, and display of effect symbols according to various symbol control commands from the main control unit 200 (from the sub control unit 260 to the effect display control unit 280). Various effect display control commands for instructing effect display control for realizing a symbol variation effect) are simultaneously transmitted.

  The effect display control board 280a of the effect display control unit 280 is provided with arithmetic circuit components (not shown) including a CPU 280b, a RAM, a ROM, an input / output port, a VDP (video display processor), and the like. The display unit 25 is connected to the control unit 260, and the effect display device 25 is connected to the effect display control unit 280. Further, the effect display control board 280a is provided with an image ROM (not shown). The image ROM displays image data of effects symbols displayed on the effect display device 25 (such as the image data relating to the above-described symbol variation effects). ) Are stored. The effect display control unit 280 (CPU 280b) is configured to perform drive control of the effect display device 25 (display output processing of symbol data and image data for various effects).

  In addition, various LEDs and lamps 262 are connected to the sub-control unit 260 via a decorative driving board 261, and the speaker 10a that outputs various sounds, sounds, and the like to the amplifier board 263 in accordance with the progress of the game. 10d are connected. Further, the effect button 5 d is connected to the sub-control unit 260 via the effect button board 264. In addition, a touch signal indicating that the effect button 5d has been operated (touched the effect button 5d) is input to the main control unit 200 from the touch sensor 303 of the effect button 5d.

  The sub-control unit 260 selects / selects lighting / flashing patterns of various LEDs / lamps based on various commands from the main control unit 200 and the production button 5d (reception of a variation pattern designation command, input of a production button operation signal, etc.). Execution process, selection / output process of sound effect data output from speakers 10a to 10d, selection / execution process of effect display pattern (effect pattern of design variation effect) on effect display device 25, electromagnet of effect button 5d Excitation control 308 is performed.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described based on a flowchart. FIG. 6 is an example of a main job performed under the control of the main control unit 200. The main job shown in FIG. 6 is executed by the CPU 200b mounted on the main control board 200a based on a program stored in a ROM (not shown) (an internal ROM of the CPU 200b or a ROM mounted on the main control board 200a). After the power-on process (S100), the game start process (S200), the normal symbol game process (S300), the ordinary electric game game process (S400), the special symbol game process (S500), and the jackpot game process (S600) Each process is repeatedly executed every time the timer is reset (in this embodiment, every 4 ms). The power-off generation process (S50) is a power-on process (S100) when a power failure occurs due to a power failure or the like, the used registers and stack pointers are saved, the payout motor is stopped, and a system reset occurs. It has come to move to.

  The power-on process (S100) is performed when the power is turned on and when power is restored after the power is cut off. When the power is turned on, RAM initialization processing is performed, and when the power is turned off, the game state is restored when the power is turned off. The return setting etc. for making it do is performed. Next, in the game start process (S200), detection of various switch states, update of various random numbers, prize ball payout control, and the like are performed.

  In the normal symbol game process (S300), first, the normal symbol is determined whether it is normal, and the normal symbol display unit 51 (see FIG. 4) hits the normal symbol to stop display in the normal symbol display mode, or the normal symbol is removed. The display mode is determined whether to stop display. Here, as described above, the probability of whether or not the normal symbol is correct in this embodiment is a probability of winning depending on the operating state of the opening time extension function (and the fluctuation time reduction function) that extends the opening time of the start port 28b. Are different, and the probability of hitting is higher when the open time extension function (and the variable time shortening function) is operating than when the open time extension function (and the variable time shortening function) is not operating.

  Next, when the result of determining whether or not the normal symbol is correct is obtained, the normal symbol fluctuation display time is set, and the normal symbol fluctuation display is started in accordance with the fluctuation display time. When the variable display time elapses, the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the determined display mode, and when the normal symbol is hit and displayed in the normal symbol display mode, the operation of the normal electric accessory is started. (The second start port 28b is opened). In the normal symbol game process, the normal symbol variation display and stop display are performed as described above, and when the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the normal symbol display mode, the second start port 28b is activated. I do. 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 determined. It is determined whether or not a predetermined number of winnings 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 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, as shown in FIG. 7A, it is determined whether or not a winning (game ball has entered) at the starting port 28 (the first starting port 28a or the second starting port 28b) (S501). If it is determined that the player has not won 28 (S501: NO). The process proceeds to S504. On the other hand, if it is determined that the start port 28 has been won (S501: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of special symbol reservations is less than 4 (S502). As a result, when it is determined that the number of special symbol reservations is not less than 4 (4 or more) (S502: NO), the process proceeds to S504, where it is determined that the number of special symbol reservations is less than 4. In this case (S502: YES), a special symbol random number is acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM (S503). Thereby, the number of special symbol reservation increases by one. The special symbol random number includes a special symbol success / failure determination random number, a special symbol hitting symbol determination random number, a reach random number, and the like.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the jackpot game is being played (whether or not the jackpot game flag is ON) (S504). As a result, if it is determined that the game is a hit game (the jackpot game flag is ON) (S504: YES), the special symbol game process is terminated, and the jackpot game is not played (the jackpot game flag is OFF). ) (S504: NO), it is determined whether or not the special symbol is changing (S505).

  As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol is changing (S505: YES), the process proceeds to S509 described later, and when it is determined that the special symbol is not changing (S505: NO). Then, it is determined whether or not it is during the special symbol stop display time (S506). 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 (S506: YES), the process proceeds to S513 described later, and if it is determined that it is not during the special symbol stop display time (S506). : NO), it is determined whether or not the number of special symbol hold is zero (S507).

  As a result, when it is determined that the number of special symbol hold is zero (S507: YES), the special symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of special symbol hold is not zero (S507: NO), special symbol variation display related processing is performed (S508).

  Here, the special symbol variation display related processing (S508) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, the random number for determining whether or not the special symbol is stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (the random number for determining whether or not the game ball has entered the start opening 28) is read (S508a). ), Special symbol winning / failing determination is performed (S508b).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the result of the special symbol success / failure determination performed in S508b is a big hit (S508c). As a result, if it is determined that the result of the special symbol win / fail determination is a big hit (S508c: YES), a special symbol fluctuation pattern table is set by the big hit hour fluctuation pattern table distribution process (S508d). On the other hand, when it is determined that the result of the special symbol winning / failing determination is not a big hit (out of the game) (S508c: NO), the variation pattern table of the special symbol is set by the variation pattern table distribution process at the time of removal (S508g). .

  Next, the random number for determining the variation pattern is acquired, and the random number for determining symbols stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (obtained when the game ball enters the first start port 28a or the second start port 28b). The special symbol determination random number is read out (S508h).

  Next, a variation pattern and a stop symbol of the special symbol are determined (S508i). As a special symbol variation pattern, a specific variation pattern is selected from the variation pattern table set in the processing of either S508d or S508g using the special symbol variation pattern determination random number acquired in S508h. Further, the special symbol stop symbol is determined by using the symbol determining random number read in S508h, and the special symbol stop symbol type (LED display pattern in the special symbol display unit 61).

  Next, according to the stop symbol and the variation pattern determined in S508i, the special symbol display unit 61 starts the variation display of the special symbol (S508j), and accompanying this, the variation of the special symbol as a command variation start command The pattern designation command and stop information designation command are transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S508k). The variation pattern designation command is a command for designating the variation pattern of the special symbol set in S508i, and the special symbol information designation command is a command for designating the stop symbol of the special symbol. When this variation pattern designation command and stop information designation command are transmitted to the sub-control unit 260, the symbol variation effect (effect) is controlled under the control of the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 that have received these commands (design variation start command). Symbol variation display) is started. Then, 1 is subtracted from the number of reserved special symbols (S508l). The processing up to this point is when the special symbol variation display is started.

  Next, returning to FIG. 7A, if it is determined in S505 that the special symbol is changing (S505: YES), whether or not the changing display time of the changing special symbol has elapsed. Is determined (S509). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol variation display time has not elapsed (S509: NO), it is determined that the special symbol game processing is terminated and the special symbol variation display time has elapsed. In this case (S509: YES), the special symbol variation display is stopped (S510), and a special symbol variation command indicating that the special symbol variation display is stopped is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S511). A stop display time is set (S512).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed (S513). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has not elapsed (S513: NO), the special symbol game processing is terminated and it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed. If it is determined (S513: YES), it is determined whether or not the stop symbol of the special symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 61 is a big hit symbol (S514 in FIG. 7B).

  As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the special symbol is a big hit symbol (S514: YES), the opening pattern of the big winning opening 33a is set (S515), and the big hit game flag is set to ON (S515). S516). Thereby, the big hit game is started according to the big winning opening opening pattern set in the process of S515. Then, a jackpot game start designation command indicating that the jackpot game is started is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S517).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is ON (S518). If it is determined that the probability variation flag is ON (S518: YES), the probability variation flag is set to OFF (S519). Transition to processing. On the other hand, when it is determined that the probability variation flag is not ON (S518: NO), the process proceeds to S520 as it is.

  In the process of S520, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON. If it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not ON (S520: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S520: YES), the fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S521), and further the release extension flag is set to OFF (S522). 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 S514, when it is determined that the special symbol stopped symbol displayed on the special symbol display unit 61 is not a big hit symbol (in other words, it is a miss symbol) (S514: NO). Then, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S523). As a result, if it is determined that the variation shortening flag is not ON (S523: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and if it is determined that the variation shortening flag is ON (S523: YES), the variation shortening is performed. The counter is decremented by 1 (S524), and it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening counter has become zero (S525). 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. 9) described later according to the type of jackpot after the jackpot game ends. The

  When it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is not zero (S525: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is zero (S525: YES), The fluctuation shortening flag is turned off (S526), and the open extension flag is turned off (S527). 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, if it is determined that the big prize opening 33a is being opened (S602: YES), whether or not the opening time of the big prize opening 33a has elapsed, in other words, the opening time is the specified opening time (this In the embodiment, it is determined whether or not 30 seconds) has been reached (S603), and if it is determined that the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has not elapsed (S603: NO), the special winning opening 33a is defined. It is determined whether or not the winning number has been won (whether or not a specified number of game balls have been entered) (S604). In the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not ten game balls have entered the special winning opening 33a as the prescribed number of winnings.

  As a result of the process of S604, if it is determined that the specified number of winnings has not been won in the big winning opening 33a (S604: NO), the big hit game process is terminated, and the predetermined winning number is won in the large winning opening 33a. If it is determined (S604: YES) or if it is determined that the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (the specified time has been reached) (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 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 current big hit is a probable change big win (whether the special symbol stop symbol that triggered the start of the current big hit game is a probable big hit symbol) (S610). As a result, when it is determined that the probability variation is a big hit (S610: YES), the probability variation flag is set to ON (S611). Thereby, with the end of the big hit game related to the current probability change big hit, the probability variation function starts to operate (becomes a probability change state).

  Next, the fluctuation shortening flag is set ON (S612), the open extension flag is set ON (S613), and the fluctuation shortening counter is set (S614). In the processing of S614, when the probability variation flag is set to ON (when the probability variation is a big hit), “10,000” is set to the fluctuation shortening counter, and when the probability variation flag is not set to ON (normally In the case of big hit), “100” is set in the fluctuation shortening counter. As a result, the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function start to operate (become time-saving state). Then, a gaming state designation command indicating the current gaming state (the operating state of the variation time shortening function, the opening time extension function, and the probability variation function) is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S615).

  Next, the button effect control process executed by the sub-control unit 260 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is an example of a button effect control process performed under the control of the sub-control unit 260, and is executed as a subroutine of a main routine (not shown). The button effect control process shown in FIG. 10 is executed by the CPU 260b mounted on the sub control board 260a according to a program stored in a ROM (not shown) (an internal ROM of the CPU 260b or a ROM mounted on the sub control board 260a).

  First, it is determined whether it is the start timing of the button effect (S700). As a result, when it is determined that it is not the start timing of the button effect (S700: NO), the button effect control process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that it is the start timing of the button effect (S700: YES), the button effect is started (S701), and the button operation valid period of the effect button 5d is started (S702). Thereby, the operation of the effect button is validated. Then, a button operation instruction effect for instructing the operation of the effect button 5d is executed at a predetermined timing (S703).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the probability variation function is operating (S704). As a result, when it is determined that the probability changing function is in operation (S704: YES), the load amount when the electromagnet 308 is excited and the effect button 5d is pressed is increased (S705). On the other hand, if it is determined that the probability variation function is not in operation (S704: NO), the process proceeds to S706 without changing the load amount of the effect button 5d.

  Next, based on the touch signal from the touch sensor 303, it is determined whether or not the operation of the effect button 5d has been performed (S706). As a result, when it is determined that the operation of the effect button 5d has been performed (S706: YES), an effect (operation effect) based on the operation of the effect button 5d is executed (S707). Specifically, for example, in the case of executing “an effect of selecting a character's travel direction” as a button effect, the character's travel direction is determined according to the operation of the effect button 5d, and “ When the “attacking effect” is executed, the enemy character is attacked and the enemy character falls down according to the operation of the effect button 5d. Then, the operation of the effect button 5d is invalidated (S708).

  If it is determined in the determination processing in S706 that the operation of the effect button 5d has not been performed (S706: NO), it is determined whether or not the button operation valid period has ended (S709). As a result, when it is determined that the button operation valid period has not expired (S709: NO), the process returns to the determination process of S706. On the other hand, when it is determined that the button operation valid period has ended (S709: YES), the operation of the effect button 5d is invalidated (S708).

  According to the present embodiment described above, the effect button 5d is provided with the load amount variation unit including the permanent magnet 306, the spring 307, and the electromagnet 308, and the load amount when the effect button 5d is pressed is set to “normal state”. "And" variable state ". For this reason, by changing the load amount of the effect button 5d according to the operation state of the probability variation function (privilege given to the player), the operation state of the probability variation function (to the player by the load amount of the effect button 5d) The presence or absence of a privilege to be granted) can be recognized, and the gaming interest can be improved.

  In this embodiment, the effect button 5d includes a touch sensor 303 that detects that the player has touched the effect button 5d, and the effect button 5d is operated based on the touch signal of the touch sensor 303. Can be detected. That is, since the operation of the effect button 5d is detected by touching the effect button 5d without pressing the effect button 5d, the load amount adjustment by the load amount changing units 306, 307, and 308 is not affected. In response to the player touching the effect button 5d, it is possible to change the effect in progress. Thus, in the configuration in which the load amount of the effect button 5d can be freely adjusted, the effect button 5d can be operated at the operation timing aimed by the player without impairing the operability of the effect button 5d. As a result, an effect result obtained by operating the effect button 5d at a predetermined timing can be surely enjoyed.

(Second embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the second embodiment, the load amount when pressing the effect button 5d can be varied in a plurality of stages, and the load amount of the effect button 5d is changed according to the result of the special symbol success / failure determination. Has been. Only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described below.

  In the effect button 5d of the second embodiment, there are provided a plurality of load amount changing portions including a permanent magnet 306, a spring 307, and an electromagnet 308, and the number of load amount changing portions 306, 307, 308 for exciting the electromagnet 308 is changed. Thus, the load amount of the effect button 5d can be adjusted in multiple stages. That is, the “normal state” in which the load amount of the effect button 5 d is composed only of the elastic force of the spring 306, and the magnetic repulsive force generated between the permanent magnet 306 and the electromagnet 308 due to the elastic force of the spring button 306. Among the “fluctuating states” to which is added, “fluctuating states” are provided in a plurality of stages.

  In the present embodiment, two sets of load amount variation units 306, 307, and 308 are provided, and each electromagnet 308 can be individually excited. For this reason, when the electromagnet 308 is not excited by all the load amount changing portions 306, 307, 308, only the elastic force of the two springs 306 is the load amount of the button main body 300 (this load amount is set to “1”). ) When the electromagnet 308 is excited by one set of load amount changing portions 306, 307, and 308, the elastic force of the two springs 306 and the magnetic repulsive force generated between the one set of permanent magnet 306 and the electromagnet 308. Is a load amount of the button main body 300 (this load amount is “2”). When the electromagnet 308 is excited by the two sets of load amount variation units 306, 307, and 308, the elastic force of the two springs 306 and the magnetic repulsive force generated between the two sets of the permanent magnet 306 and the electromagnet 308. Is the load amount of the button body 300 (this load amount is “3”). Thus, with the effect button 5d of the present embodiment, the load amount can be adjusted in three stages.

  In the present embodiment, during the symbol variation game where the special symbol variation display is performed, the load amount of the effect button 5d is changed according to the result of the special symbol success / failure determination. FIG. 11 is a load determination table for determining the load amount of the effect button 5d. As shown in FIG. 11, the load amount of the effect button 5d is associated with the result of the special symbol success / failure determination. Specifically, when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is “probable big hit”, the load amount of the effect button 5d is “3”, and when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is “normal big hit”, the load of the effect button 5d When the amount is “2” and the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is “off”, the load amount of the effect button 5d is “1”. For this reason, the load amount of the effect button 5d increases in the order of “displacement” <“normal big hit” <“probability big hit”. That is, as the privilege given to the player is more advantageous to the player, the load amount of the effect button 5d increases.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the load amount of the effect button 5d can be changed in a plurality of stages, and the load amount of the effect button 5d is changed according to the result of the special symbol success / failure determination. Based on the load amount of 5d, it becomes possible to recognize the result of special symbol success / failure determination (contents of privilege granted to the player) during the symbol variation game. In particular, in the present embodiment, it is possible to recognize that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is more advantageous to the player as the load amount of the effect button 5d is larger.

(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 embodiments described above, an example in which an instruction to simply operate the effect button 5d within a predetermined period has been described as a button effect. It may be configured to instruct to perform (sequential hitting), or the effect button 5d is operated with a predetermined timing (reach symbol or specific character) at a predetermined timing while the symbol or character is variably displayed. You may comprise so that it may instruct | indicate.

  Further, in the second embodiment, the load amount of the effect button 5d is set in a plurality of stages, and the load amount of the effect button 5d is set to be larger as the privilege to be given is more advantageous to the player. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the amount of load on the effect button 5d may be set to be smaller as the benefit is advantageous to the player.

  In each of the above embodiments, the operation state of the probability variation function and the result of the special symbol success / failure determination result (probability big hit, normal big hit, miss) are notified by the load amount of the effect button 5. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other game states may be notified by the load amount of the effect button 5.

  For example, when the maximum number of consecutive rounds of the big hit game is set (for example, 15 rounds and 7 rounds), the big hit game is performed depending on the load amount of the effect button 5d until the seventh round game in the big hit game is finished. The maximum number of consecutive rounds (15 rounds or 7 rounds) can be broadcast. In addition, when a plurality of short-time game continuation times after the big hit game is finished (for example, 100 times and 50 times of special symbol fluctuations), the special symbol changes during the big hit game or after the big hit game ends. You may comprise so that the number of continuations of a short-time game (the number of times of special symbol changes 100 times or 50 times) may be notified by the load amount of the effect button 5d until the number of times reaches 50 times.

  In addition, by performing a button effect during the big hit game, it is possible to perform a promotion effect (such as a probable change promotion effect or a round promotion effect) using the variation in the load amount of the effect button 5d.

  For example, by changing the load amount of the effect button 5d during the big hit game, it is possible to perform a probable change promotion effect informing that the type of big hit is a probable big hit. The probability variation promotion effect is performed on the premise that when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a probability variation jackpot, the effect symbol is stopped and displayed at a symbol corresponding to the normal jackpot and the jackpot game is started. Then, by notifying that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a probable big hit in the probability variation promotion effect using the fluctuation of the load amount of the effect button 5d, the player is promoted as if the special symbol success / failure judgment is from the normal big hit to the probable big hit. The impression is improved and the interest is improved.

  Further, in a gaming machine in which a plurality of jackpot rounds (for example, 15 rounds and 7 rounds) are set and a round promotion effect is performed during the big hit game, the round promotion effect can be performed by changing the load amount of the effect button 5d. . The round promotion effect is performed on the precondition that when the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is 15 rounds big hit, the effect symbol is stopped and displayed at the symbol corresponding to the seventh round big hit and the big hit game is started. Even if the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is 15 rounds big hit, after the stop effect is displayed on the design corresponding to the 7th round big hit, the special symbol success / failure determination is made by the round promotion effect using the change in the load amount of the effect button 5d. By notifying that the result is a round 15 big hit, the player receives the impression that the special symbol success / failure determination has been promoted from the 7th round big hit to the 15th round big hit, and the interest is improved.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the effect button 5d is provided with a load amount changing unit including the permanent magnet 306, the spring 307, and the electromagnet 308, and the electromagnet 308 is excited to change the load amount of the effect button 5d. However, the load amount variation unit may be configured differently. For example, in the effect button 5d shown in FIG. 12, a push-type solenoid 309 is provided instead of the permanent magnet 306 and the electromagnet 308. In this case, the spring 307 and the solenoid 309 constitute a load adjusting unit. According to such a configuration, by energizing the solenoid 309, it is possible to adjust the load amount when pressing the effect button 5d. Also, by providing a plurality of sets of springs 307 and solenoids 309, the load amount of the effect button 5d can be adjusted in a plurality of stages.

  Moreover, you may provide the lock mechanism which makes the state which cannot press the effect button 5d in the effect button 5d of each said Example. A well-known structure can be used as the lock mechanism. Even when the effect button 5d cannot be pressed by the lock mechanism as described above, it is possible to detect that the effect button 5d has been operated based on the touch signal of the touch sensor 303.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine, 5d ... Production | presentation button, 303 ... Touch sensor (touch detection means), 306 ... Permanent magnet (load amount fluctuation means), 307 ... Spring (load amount fluctuation means), 308 ... Electromagnet (load amount fluctuation means) 309: Solenoid (load amount variation means), 200 ... Main control section (probability variation means), 260 ... Sub control section (operation instruction means, button effect execution means).

Claims (3)

A win / hit determination is performed based on the game ball entering the starting port. If the result of the determination is a win, the symbol change game is executed to stop and display the win symbol, which is advantageous to the player. In gaming machines that execute
Production buttons that can be pressed by the player,
Touch detection means for detecting that the effect button has been touched;
Load amount changing means for changing a load amount necessary for pressing the effect button by a predetermined amount between a normal state and a change state in which the load amount is different from the normal state;
The game machine according to claim 1, wherein the load amount changing means changes the load amount to the change state when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Providing a probability variation means for improving the winning probability of the success / failure determination,
2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the load amount changing unit changes the load amount to the changing state when the winning probability of the determination of success / failure is improved by the probability changing unit.   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the load amount changing means changes the load amount to the changing state when the result of the determination is successful.

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