JP2013106796A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To execute a performance during execution of variable display of identification information at appropriate timing without any changes in and any new additions to a program when changing and adding a performance included in a variable display pattern.SOLUTION: A common specific performance, which is executed in a common mode during execution of variation display of a performance pattern, is executable regardless of kinds of variation patterns. Then, based on data for setting a common specific performance, where a determination value is allocated to decide whether the common specific performance is executed for each elapsed time (for example, 1 sec or 0.5 sec interval) from a predetermined opportunity (for example, in start of variation) in variation display of the performance pattern, execution timing of the common specific performance is decided by common processing (for example common specific performance setting processing, namely a common processing routine).

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that performs variable display of a plurality of types of identification information that can each be identified.

  As a gaming machine, a game ball, which is a game medium, is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game ball wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Furthermore, a variable display means having a plurality of display units capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “variation”) is provided, and when the combination information display result of the identification information becomes a specific display result in the variable display means, a predetermined display result is obtained. Is configured to give the player the gaming value of the game.

  The game value is the right that the state of the variable winning ball apparatus provided in the gaming area of the gaming machine becomes advantageous for a player who is easy to win, and the right for becoming advantageous for a player. In other words, or a condition for winning a prize ball is easily established.

  In a pachinko machine, when a predetermined specific display result is derived and displayed as a display result of variable display of identification information that is started in the variable display means based on the winning of a game ball at the start winning opening, A “big hit” occurs. Note that the derivation display is to stop and display a symbol (excluding stop before so-called re-variation). When the big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state where the hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. And the number of times the special winning opening is opened is fixed to a predetermined number (for example, 15 rounds). An opening time (for example, 29 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the big winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses. Hereinafter, the opening period of each special winning opening may be referred to as a round.

  In such a gaming machine, there is one configured to provide a plurality of effect blocks and determine an effect for each effect block when determining an effect to be executed for variable display of identification information. For example, in Patent Document 1, an effect block having a certain time scale is provided, and an individual effect is determined for each effect block, whereby a plurality of individual effects are sequentially performed during the variable display of identification information once. It describes that a changing production is executed. Further, for example, in Patent Document 2, it is determined whether the state is the first notice state or the second notice state, and an advance notice table corresponding to which notice state is selected is selected. Types of advance notice patterns (direction blocks) are allocated, and it is described that an advance notice effect is determined for each advance notice pattern.

JP 2010-279557 A (paragraphs 0092-0093, 0124-0144, FIGS. 8-11) JP 2007-29223 A (paragraphs 0443-0472, FIGS. 44-53)

  However, in the gaming machines described in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2, when the rendering information is changed or added in the variable display pattern of the identification information at the stage of development / design of the gaming machine, a new rendering block is created. Must be added. Therefore, a large change is required in a program for determining and executing an effect, such as a change in existing effect determination processing and execution processing, or a process for a newly added effect block.

  Therefore, the present invention provides an effect during execution of variable display of identification information at an appropriate timing without changing the program or adding a new effect when changing or adding the effect included in the variable display pattern. An object is to provide a game machine that can be executed.

(Means 1) A gaming machine according to the present invention is a gaming machine that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, a first special symbol, a second special symbol, and a production symbol) that can be identified. The variable display pattern determining means (for example, the part executing step S301 in the game control microcomputer 560) and the variable display pattern determining means determine one variable display pattern from the variable display patterns (for example, the variation pattern). Based on the variable display pattern thus obtained, variable display execution means for executing variable display of identification information (for example, a part for executing steps S303, S304, and S32 in the game control microcomputer 560), and variable display of identification information Production execution means (for example, production) for executing a predetermined production (for example, common specific production) during execution The execution executing means is executed in a common manner during the variable display of the identification information as the predetermined display regardless of the type of the variable display pattern as the predetermined display. (For example, the production control microcomputer 100 executes step S8107 to turn on the production LED 99 or output a predetermined special sound from the speaker 27. A specific specific effect at every elapsed time (for example, every 1 second or 0.5 second) from a predetermined trigger (for example, at the start of variation) in the variable display of identification information, regardless of the type of variable display pattern Common specific effect setting data in which information for determination (for example, determination value) for determining whether or not to execute is set For example, based on the common specific effect setting data shown in FIG. 35, execution timing determining means for determining the execution timing of the common specific effect by common processing (for example, the part for executing step S8004 in the effect control microcomputer 100) ) Is further provided. With such a configuration, when changes or additions of effects included in the variable display pattern are made, effects are made during execution of variable display of identification information at an appropriate timing without changing programs or adding new ones. Can be executed.

(Means 2) In the means 1, when the variable display result of the identification information becomes a predetermined specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol), the specific gaming state (for example, the jackpot gaming state) advantageous to the player is set. Predetermining means for determining whether or not to enter a specific gaming state before the variable display result of the identification information is derived and displayed (for example, a part for executing step S61 in the gaming control microcomputer 560). The effect execution means executes the common specific effect different times during variable display of one piece of identification information depending on whether or not it is determined to be in the specific game state by the prior determination means (for example, for effect control) As shown in FIG. 35, the microcomputer 100 has a maximum of five common identifications in the case of a big hit (excluding a sudden big hit and a sudden probability change big hit). Whereas there is a possibility to perform the output, when the come off, there is no possibility of performing a 2 or 4 once or common specific effect at the maximum) it may be configured so. According to such a configuration, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation not only with respect to whether or not the common specific effect is executed, but also with respect to the number of executions of the common specific effect.

(Means 3) In the means 1 or 2, the execution timing determining means uses the common specific effect setting data in which the determination information is set at different time intervals according to the time elapsed from the predetermined trigger. The execution timing is determined (for example, as shown in FIG. 35, the microcomputer 100 for effect control can set a judgment value by providing a time frame every second from 0 to 10.0 seconds after the start of fluctuation. In contrast, the data for the common specific effect setting that is configured so that the judgment value can be set by providing a time frame every 0.5 seconds from 10.0 seconds to 16.0 seconds. To determine the execution timing of the common specific effect). According to such a configuration, it is possible to determine the execution timing of the common specific effect at an appropriate timing for a section or the like for which the execution timing of the common specific effect is desired to be set finely.

(Means 4) In any one of the means 1 to 3, the execution timing determination means uses the common specific effect setting data including the specific elapsed time in which the determination information is not set out of the elapsed time from the predetermined trigger. Thus, the execution timing of the common specific effect is determined (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 selects a time frame to which no determination value is assigned (a time frame indicated by “x”) as shown in FIG. 35). The common specific effect setting data may be used to determine the execution timing of the common specific effect. According to such a configuration, when changing or adding an effect included in the variable display pattern, it is only necessary to set information for determination with respect to a specific elapsed time, and to change a program or add a new one. Without being accompanied, the execution timing of the common specific effect can be determined at an appropriate timing.

(Means 5) In any one of the means 1 to 4, a specific gaming state (advantageous to the player) when the variable display result of the identification information becomes a predetermined specific display result (for example, a jackpot symbol) ( For example, it is a gaming machine to be a big hit gaming state), and prior decision means (for example, a gaming control microcomputer 560) that decides whether or not to enter a specific gaming state before a variable display result of identification information is derived and displayed. The execution timing determination means is special in which the information for determination is set only when the advance determination means determines that the game state is the specific gaming state out of the elapsed time from a predetermined opportunity. The execution timing of the common specific effect is determined by using the common specific effect setting data including the elapsed time (for example, the microcomputer for effect control). 35, as shown in FIG. 35, a time frame (15.0 seconds, 15.5 seconds, and 15.0 seconds) in which determination values are assigned only when a big hit (in this example, sudden sudden change big hits or sudden big hits are excluded). The execution timing of the common specific effect is determined using the data for setting the common specific effect including the time frame of 16.0 seconds). According to such a configuration, regardless of the variable display pattern, it can be grasped that the specific gaming state is reached at the execution timing of the common specific effect, and the interest in the game can be improved.

(Means 6) Special effect execution means (for example, step S8006 in the effect control microcomputer 100) that executes a special effect (for example, a button notice effect) different from the common specific effect in any one of the means 1 to 5. And the execution timing determination means at a time when the special effect is likely to be executed out of the elapsed time from the predetermined opportunity, and a process table corresponding to the notice effect is selected and steps S8008 and S8105 are executed. Determines the execution timing of the common specific effect using the common specific effect setting data for which the determination information is not set (for example, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes the button notice effect as shown in FIG. 35). No decision value is assigned to the time frame (8-second and 9-second time frames) Using the data for passing a particular setting, to determine the execution timing of the common specific effect) may be configured so. According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the common specific effect and the special effect are executed in an overlapping manner, making it difficult to recognize the effect.

(Means 7) In any one of the means 1 to 6, the specific game state (advantageous to the player) when the variable display result of the identification information becomes a predetermined specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol) ( For example, a pre-determining means (for example, a jackpot gaming state) that determines whether or not to enter the specific gaming state and the type of the specific gaming state before the variable information display result of the identification information is derived and displayed (for example, A part for executing step S61 in the gaming control microcomputer 560), and the execution timing determining means determines the information to be determined when it is determined to be a special specific gaming state among the types of specific gaming states. The execution timing of the common specific effect is determined using the common specific effect setting data for which no is set (for example, the effect control microcomputer 10 As shown in FIG. 35, when it is determined to be suddenly probable big hit among big hit types, execution of common specific production using common specific production setting data to which no judgment value is assigned. The timing may be determined). According to such a structure, the kind of specific game state can be estimated and the interest with respect to a game can be improved.

(Means 8) In any one of the means 1 to 7, the specific gaming state (advantageous to the player) when the variable display result of the identification information becomes a predetermined specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol) ( For example, it is a gaming machine to be a big hit gaming state), and prior decision means (for example, a gaming control microcomputer 560) that decides whether or not to enter a specific gaming state before a variable display result of identification information is derived and displayed. The variable display pattern determination means determines one variable display pattern from a plurality of types of variable display patterns based on the determination result of the prior determination means (for example, a game control micro). In step S82, the computer 560 determines whether or not the big hit variation pattern depends on whether or not the big hit flag is set in step S81. The type determination table is selected, or the variation pattern type determination table other than the big hit is selected in steps S84, S87, S88, and S89, and steps S90 to S92 are executed.) The execution timing determination means variably displays the identification information. When a variable display pattern that is in a specific gaming state is determined without performing an effect during the execution of the game, the execution timing of the common specific effect is determined using the common specific effect setting data in which the determination information is not set. (For example, as shown in FIG. 35, the microcomputer 100 for effect control has a variation pattern (suddenly for a big hit) that is a big hit without an effect (for example, reach effect) during the execution of the change display of the effect symbol. If the non-reach PC1-1 fluctuation pattern) has been determined, the common characteristics to which no judgment value is assigned Using for rendering setup data to determine execution timing of the common specific effect) may be configured so. According to such a configuration, it is possible to predict that a specific gaming state is suddenly achieved without performing an effect during execution of variable display of identification information, and it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which CPU in a main board | substrate performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 4 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern of the production | presentation symbol prepared beforehand. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern of the production | presentation symbol prepared beforehand. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows a big hit determination table, a small hit determination table, and a big hit type determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a pending | holding buffer. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a display result designation | designated command transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of a special symbol display control process. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control main process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a command reception buffer. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the stop symbol of an effect symbol. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a process table. It is a flowchart which shows a common specific production | presentation setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the specific example of the data for common specific production | presentation setting. It is a flowchart which shows the process during effect design change. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation stop process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit display process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit end effect process. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the case where an effect is changed or added when not using the data for common specific effect setting. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the case where an effect is changed or added when using the data for common specific effect setting.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1 that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as seen from the front.

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

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

  The member that forms the extra ball tray (lower tray) 4 is configured in a stick shape (bar shape), for example, at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the lower tray main body (for example, the central portion of the lower tray). Is attached to the stick controller 122 that can be tilted in a plurality of directions (front and rear, left and right). It should be noted that the stick controller 122 has a predetermined operation, for example, by performing a push-pull operation with a predetermined operation finger (for example, an index finger) while the player holds the operation rod of the stick controller 122 with an operation hand (for example, the left hand) A trigger button 121 (see FIG. 3) capable of performing an instruction operation is provided, and a trigger sensor 125 (see FIG. 3) for detecting a predetermined instruction operation by a push-pull operation or the like on the trigger button 121 is provided inside the operation rod of the stick controller 122. 3) is built-in. In addition, a tilt direction sensor unit 123 (see FIG. 3) that detects a tilting operation with respect to the operating rod is provided in the lower plate main body and the like below the stick controller 122. The stick controller 122 includes a vibrator motor 126 (see FIG. 3) for causing the stick controller 122 to vibrate.

  The member that forms the hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3 is subjected to a predetermined instruction operation, for example, by a player pressing a predetermined position on the upper surface of the upper plate body (for example, above the stick controller 122). A possible push button 120 is provided. The push button 120 only needs to be configured to be able to detect a predetermined instruction operation such as a pressing operation from a player mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically. A push sensor 124 (see FIG. 3) for detecting an operation action of the player performed on the push button 120 may be provided inside the main body of the upper plate at the position where the push button 120 is installed. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 1, the mounting positions of the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 are in a vertical positional relationship in the central portion of the upper plate and the lower plate. On the other hand, it is good also considering the attachment position of the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 as the position approached to either right or left in the upper plate and the lower plate, maintaining the vertical relationship. Alternatively, the mounting position of the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 is not in the vertical relationship, but may be in the horizontal relationship, for example.

  An effect display device 9 composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) is provided near the center of the game area 7. The display screen of the effect display device 9 includes an effect symbol display area for performing variable display of the effect symbol in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Therefore, the effect display device 9 corresponds to a variable display device that performs variable display of effect symbols. Specifically, in this embodiment, in the effect symbol display area, for example, a symbol display area for variably displaying three ornamental (effect) effect symbols of “left”, “middle”, and “right” is displayed. is there. The symbol display area includes “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas, but the position of the symbol display area does not have to be fixed on the display screen of the effect display device 9. Three areas of the display area may be separated. The effect display device 9 is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. When the first special symbol display 8a is executing variable display of the first special symbol, the effect control microcomputer causes the effect display device 9 to execute the effect display along with the variable display, and the second special symbol display 8a executes the second special display. When the variable display of the second special symbol is executed on the symbol display 8b, the effect display is executed by the effect display device 9 along with the variable display, so that the progress of the game can be easily grasped. .

  The effect display device 9 is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. When the first special symbol display 8a is executing variable display of the first special symbol, the effect control microcomputer causes the effect display device 9 to execute the effect display along with the variable display, and the second special symbol display 8a executes the second special display. When the variable display of the second special symbol is executed on the symbol display 8b, the effect display is executed by the effect display device 9 along with the variable display, so that the progress of the game can be easily grasped. .

  Further, in the effect display device 9, symbols other than the symbol that will be the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) have continued for a predetermined time, and the jackpot symbol (for example, the left middle right symbol is aligned with the same symbol) Stops, swings, scales, or deforms in a state that matches the symbol combination), or multiple symbols fluctuate synchronously in the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol is switched Thus, an effect performed in a state where the possibility of occurrence of a big hit (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) before the final result is displayed is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. And when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the effect display device 9 is not a big hit symbol, it becomes “out” and the variation display state ends. The player plays the game while enjoying how to generate the big hit.

  In the upper right part of the display screen of the effect display device 9, there are provided fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d for displaying a fourth symbol after the effect symbol, a special symbol described later, and a normal symbol. In this embodiment, a fourth symbol display area 9c for the first special symbol in which the variation display of the fourth symbol for the first special symbol is performed in synchronization with the variation display of the first special symbol described later, There is provided a fourth symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol in which the variation display of the fourth symbol for the second special symbol is performed in synchronization with the variation display of the special symbol.

  In this embodiment, the variation display of the effect symbol is executed in synchronization with the variation display of the special symbol (however, to be precise, the variation display of the effect symbol is varied on the effect control microcomputer 100 side). This is done by measuring the variation time recognized based on the pattern command.) When performing an effect using the effect display device 9, for example, the effect content including the change display of the effect symbol disappears from the screen for a moment. There are a variety of effects such as effects being performed and effects in which movable objects shield all or part of the screen. For this reason, even if the display screen on the effect display device 9 is viewed, it may be difficult to recognize whether or not the current variation display is in progress. Therefore, in this embodiment, whether or not the state of the present variation is being displayed by confirming the state of the fourth symbol by further displaying the variation of the fourth symbol on a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9. It is possible to reliably recognize whether or not. Note that the 4th symbol is always variably displayed with a constant operation and does not disappear from the screen or is not shielded by a shielding object, so that it can always be visually recognized.

  The 4th symbol for the first special symbol and the 4th symbol for the 2nd special symbol may be collectively referred to as the 4th symbol, and the 4th symbol display area 9c for the 1st special symbol and the 2nd special symbol The 4th symbol display area 9d for symbols may be collectively referred to as a 4th symbol display area.

  The variation (variable display) of the fourth symbol is realized by continuing the state where the fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d are repeatedly turned on and off at a predetermined time interval in a predetermined display color (for example, blue). . The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display unit 8a is synchronized with the variable display of the fourth symbol for the first special symbol in the fourth symbol display area 9c for the first special symbol. The variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b is synchronized with the variable display of the fourth symbol for the second special symbol in the fourth symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol. Synchronous means that the variable display start time and end time are the same, and the variable display period is the same. When the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, the display color reminiscent of the big hit in the fourth symbol display area 9c for the first special symbol (a display color different from the loss. Sometimes it is displayed in blue, but it is displayed in red when it is a big hit, and the display color may be different depending on the type of big hit (whether it is a probable big hit or a normal big hit). The display color may be different depending on whether or not it is a big hit that can be expected to win a game ball to the big winning opening (for example, a big hit other than a sudden probability change big hit). If control is possible, the display color may be changed according to the number of rounds continued in the jackpot game, and the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b. In this case, a display color reminiscent of a big hit in the 4th symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol (a display color different from a loss is displayed. The display color may be different depending on the type of jackpot (whether it is a promising jackpot or a regular jackpot), and a jackpot that can be expected to win a game ball at the jackpot ( For example, the display color may be different depending on whether or not it is a big hit other than a sudden probability change big hit, and if it is possible to control multiple types of big hits with different numbers of rounds, the round that is continued in the big hit game The display colors when the 4th symbol display areas 9c and 9d are turned off may be assimilated with the background image when the lights are turned off to prevent them from becoming invisible. Scene image different display color (e.g., black) it is desirable that.

  In this embodiment, the case where the 4th symbol display area is provided on a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is shown, but a light emitter such as a lamp or LED is used separately from the effect display device 9. Thus, the fourth symbol display area may be realized. In this case, for example, the variation (variable display) of the fourth symbol may be realized by continuing the state in which the two LEDs are alternately lit, and any of the two LEDs is stopped. Whether or not the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed may be indicated depending on whether or not it is displayed.

  Further, in this embodiment, a case is shown in which separate fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d are provided corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol, respectively, but the first special symbol and the second special symbol are provided. A fourth symbol display area common to the symbols may be provided in a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9. Moreover, you may make it implement | achieve the 4th symbol display area common with respect to a 1st special symbol and a 2nd special symbol using light-emitting bodies, such as a lamp | ramp and LED. In this case, when executing the variation display of the fourth symbol in synchronization with the variation display of the first special symbol, and when executing the variation display of the fourth symbol in synchronization with the variation display of the second special symbol, For example, the display of different display colors at certain time intervals may be performed by distinguishing and executing the variation display of the fourth symbol by performing display that repeatedly turns on and off. In addition, when the variation display of the fourth symbol is executed in synchronization with the variation display of the first special symbol, and when the variation display of the fourth symbol is performed in synchronization with the variation display of the second special symbol, for example, The display of the fourth symbol may be distinguished and executed by performing a display that repeatedly turns on and off at different time intervals. In addition, for example, when the stop symbol is derived and displayed corresponding to the variation display of the first special symbol, and when the stop symbol is derived and displayed corresponding to the variation display of the second special symbol, the same big hit symbol is obtained. However, you may make it stop-display the stop symbol of a different aspect.

  Further, an effect LED 99 is provided above the effect display device 9. In this embodiment, when a common specific effect, which will be described later, is executed during the variation display of the effect symbol, control for turning on the effect LED 99 is performed.

  On the right side of the effect display device 9, a first special symbol display (first variable display unit) 8a for variably displaying the first special symbol as identification information is provided. In this embodiment, the first special symbol display 8a is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. In other words, the first special symbol display 8a is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. Further, on the right side of the effect display device 9 (next to the right of the first special symbol display 8a), a second special symbol display (second variable display unit) 8b for variably displaying the second special symbol as identification information. Is also provided. The second special symbol display 8b is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the second special symbol display 8b is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9.

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

  Hereinafter, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as a special symbol, and the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator 8b are collectively referred to as a special symbol indicator (variable display unit). There are things to do.

  Although this embodiment shows a case where two special symbol indicators 8a and 8b are provided, the gaming machine may be provided with only one special symbol indicator.

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

  A winning device having a first start winning port 13 is provided below the effect display device 9. The game ball won in the first start winning opening 13 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the first start opening switch 13a.

  A variable winning ball device 15 having a second starting winning port 14 through which a game ball can be won is provided below a winning device having a first starting winning port (first starting port) 13. The game ball that has won the second start winning opening (second start opening) 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the second start opening switch 14a. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the game ball can be awarded to the second starting winning port 14 (it is easier to start winning), which is advantageous for the player. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state, it is easier for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 than the first starting winning opening 13. In addition, in a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, the game ball does not win the second start winning opening 14. Therefore, in a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, it is easier for the game ball to win the first starting winning port 13 than the second starting winning port 14. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the closed state, it may be configured that the winning is possible (that is, it is difficult for the gaming ball to win) although it is difficult to win a prize.

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

  When the variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to be in the open state, the game ball heading for the variable winning ball device 15 is very likely to win the second start winning port 14. The first start winning opening 13 is provided directly under the effect display device 9, but the interval between the lower end of the effect display device 9 and the first start winning opening 13 is further reduced, or the first start winning opening is set. The nail arrangement around the first start winning opening 13 is made difficult to guide the game balls to the first starting winning opening 13 so that the winning rate of the second starting winning opening 14 is increased. It is also possible to make the direction higher than the winning rate of the first start winning opening 13.

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

  Above the second special symbol display 8b, there is a second special symbol hold memory display 18b comprising four displays for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the second start winning opening 14, that is, the second reserved memory number. Is provided. The second special symbol storage memory display 18b increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 every time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the second special symbol display 8b is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  Further, above the second special symbol hold memory display 18b, the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13, that is, the first hold memory number (the hold memory is also referred to as start memory or start prize memory). ) Is displayed, a first special symbol reservation storage display 18a is provided. The first special symbol storage memory indicator 18a increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 each time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  Also, at the lower part of the display screen of the effect display device 9, there are provided a first reserved memory display unit 18c for displaying the first reserved memory number and a second reserved memory display unit 18d for displaying the second reserved memory number. ing. In addition, you may make it provide the area | region (sum total pending | holding memory display part) which displays the total number (sum total pending memory count) which is the sum total of the 1st pending memory count and the 2nd pending memory count. As described above, if the summation pending storage display section for displaying the total number is provided, it is possible to easily grasp the total number of execution conditions that are not satisfied with the variable display start condition.

  The effect display device 9 is for decoration (for effects) during the variable display time of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display 8a and during the variable display time of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display 8b. A variable display of the effect symbol as the symbol is performed. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a and when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display device 9 reminds the jackpot The combination of is stopped and displayed. In addition, the effect display device 9 is provided with three variable display areas on the left, the middle, and the right where the effect symbols can be variably displayed. For example, when the left, middle and right variable display areas are stopped in a state where the same symbols are aligned, the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a special variable winning ball device 20 is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 includes an opening / closing plate, and when the specific display result (big hit symbol) is derived and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, and the specific display result (big hit symbol) on the second special symbol display 8b. When the open / close plate is controlled to be open by the solenoid 21 in the specific game state (big hit game state) that occurs when the symbol is derived and displayed, the big winning opening serving as the winning area is opened. The game ball that has won the big winning opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  On the left side of the effect display device 9, a normal symbol display 10 for variably displaying normal symbols is provided. In this embodiment, the normal symbol display 10 is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the normal symbol display 10 is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. Moreover, the small display is formed in, for example, a square shape. Note that the normal symbol display 10 may be configured to variably display a number (or a two-digit symbol) of, for example, 00 to 99. In addition, the normal symbol display 10 is not limited to a 7-segment LED or the like, for example, a display capable of lighting a predetermined symbol display (for example, a decoration lamp capable of alternately lighting and displaying “O” and “X”). It may be comprised.

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. When the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (a winning symbol, for example, a symbol “7”), the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In other words, the state of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is a state that is advantageous from a disadvantageous state for the player when the normal symbol is a stop symbol (a state in which a game ball can be awarded at the second start winning port 14). To change. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a game ball passing through the gate 32, that is, every time a game ball is detected by the gate switch 32a, the normal symbol storage memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one. In addition, a probability variation state in which the probability of being determined to be a big hit compared to the normal state is high (a state in which the probability of being determined to be a big hit as a result of fluctuation display of special symbols is increased compared to the normal state). Then, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased. Even in the short state (the game state in which the variable display time of the special symbol is shortened) when the symbol variation time is shortened although it is not the probability variation state, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased.

  At the lower part of the game board 6, there is an out port 26 into which a hit ball that has not won a prize is taken. In addition, four speakers 27 that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the upper left and right and lower left and right outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a frame LED 28 provided on the front frame is provided.

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

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

  In this embodiment, when the probability variation is a big hit, the game state is shifted to a high probability state, and the game ball is easily started and won (that is, in the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b and the effect display device 9). It shifts to a high base state, which is a gaming state controlled so that a variable display execution condition is easily established. In addition, when the gaming state is shifted to the short time state, the state is shifted to the high base state. In the high base state, for example, the frequency at which the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state is increased or the time in which the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state is extended compared to the case in which the high base state is not in the high base state. It becomes easier to win a start.

  Instead of extending the time during which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state (also referred to as the open extended state), the normal symbol display unit 10 shifts to a normal symbol probability changing state in which the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display unit 10 will be a hit symbol is increased. Depending on the situation, the high base state may be entered. When the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In this case, by performing the transition control to the normal symbol probability changing state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the frequency at which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is increased. Therefore, if the normal symbol probability changing state is entered, the opening time and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased, and a state where it is easy to start a winning (high base state) is achieved. That is, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 can be increased when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol or the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probabilistic symbol. It changes to an advantageous state (a state where it is easy to win a start). It should be noted that increasing the number of times of opening is a concept including changing from a closed state to an open state.

  Moreover, you may transfer to a high base state by shifting to the normal symbol time short state where the fluctuation time (variable display period) of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display 10 is shortened. In the normal symbol short-time state, the variation time of the normal symbol is shortened, so that the frequency of starting the variation of the normal symbol increases, and as a result, the frequency of hitting the normal symbol increases. Therefore, when the frequency that the normal symbol is hit increases, the frequency that the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is increased, and the start winning state is easily set (high base state).

  In addition, the change time of special symbols and production symbols will be shortened by shifting to the short time state when the variation time (variable display period) of special symbols and production symbols will be shortened. The frequency of being played (in other words, the digestion of the reserved memory becomes faster), and the situation in which an invalid start prize is generated can be reduced. Therefore, an effective start winning is likely to occur, and as a result, the possibility of a big hit game being increased.

  Furthermore, by making transitions to all the states shown above (open extended state, normal symbol probability change state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state), it will be easier to win a start (shift to a high base state). May be. In addition, it is easier to win a start (high base) by shifting to any one of the above states (open extended state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state). Transition to a state). In addition, it is easier to win a start by shifting to any one of the above states (open extended state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state). You may make it move to a base state.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. FIG. 2 also shows a payout control board 37, an effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the CPU 56 and the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached. The game control microcomputer 560 further includes a random number circuit 503 that generates hardware random numbers (random numbers generated by the hardware circuit).

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power source created on the power supply substrate 910. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). In particular, at least data (a special symbol process flag or the like) corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means, and data indicating the number of unpaid winning balls are stored in the backup RAM. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like occurs. Further, data corresponding to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are defined as data indicating the progress state of the game. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up.

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

  The random number circuit 503 is a hardware circuit that is used to generate a random number for determination to determine whether or not to win a jackpot based on a display result of variable symbol special display. The random number circuit 503 updates numerical data in accordance with a set update rule within a numerical range in which an initial value (for example, 0) and an upper limit value (for example, 65535) are set, and starts at a random timing Based on the fact that the winning time is the reading (extraction) of the numerical data, it has a random number generation function in which the numerical data to be read becomes a random value.

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

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

  Further, an input driver circuit 58 that provides detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, and the count switch 23 to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. The main board also includes an output circuit 59 for driving the solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and the solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 that forms a big winning opening in accordance with a command from the game control microcomputer 560. 31.

  In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 includes a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b that variably displays special symbols, a normal symbol display 10 that variably displays normal symbols, and a first special symbol hold memory. Display control of the display 18a, the second special symbol storage memory display 18b, and the normal symbol storage memory display 41 is performed.

  An information output circuit (not shown) that outputs an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall computer is also mounted on the main board 31.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (configured by the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 instructs the effect contents from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. An effect control command is received, and display control of the effect display device 9 for variably displaying effect symbols is performed.

  Further, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the frame LED 28 and the effect LED 99 provided on the frame side via the lamp driver board 35, and via the audio output board 70. The sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

  The effect control board 80 includes an effect control CPU 101 and an effect control microcomputer 100 including a RAM for storing information related to effects such as effect symbol process flags. The RAM may be externally attached. In this embodiment, the RAM in the production control microcomputer 100 is not backed up. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and receives a capture signal from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77 ( In response to the (effect control INT signal), an effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103. Further, the effect control CPU 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the effect display device 9 based on the effect control command.

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

  The effect control CPU 101 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for reading out necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM stores character image data and moving image data displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols (including effect symbols), and background image data in advance. ROM. The VDP 109 reads out image data from the CGROM in response to the instruction from the effect control CPU 101. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data.

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

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 3 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal. Furthermore, since the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 that is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 toward the inside of the main board 31 is restricted. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (the game control microcomputer 560 side). The output port 571 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit that is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation action on the trigger button 121 of the stick controller 122 has been detected from the trigger sensor 125 via the input port 106. Further, the effect control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that a player's operation action on the push button 120 has been detected from the push sensor 124 via the input port 106. In addition, the production control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation action with respect to the operation rod of the stick controller 122 has been detected from the tilt direction sensor unit 123 via the input port 106. . Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a drive signal to the vibrator motor 126 via the output port 105 to cause the stick controller 122 to vibrate.

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

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the LED is input to the LED driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED driver 352 supplies current to a light emitter provided on the frame side such as the frame LED 28 or a light emitter provided on the board side such as the effect LED 99 based on a signal for driving the LED.

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

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the game control microcomputer 560 on the main board 31. When power is supplied to the gaming machine and power supply is started, the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes high level, and the gaming control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) After executing the security check process, which is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid, the main process after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

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

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

  If the clear switch is not on, check whether data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) was performed when power supply to the gaming machine was stopped (Step S7). When it is confirmed that such protection processing is not performed, the CPU 56 executes initialization processing. Whether there is backup data in the backup RAM area is confirmed, for example, by the state of the backup flag set in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process.

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

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 recovers the game state restoration process (steps S41 to S43) for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electrical component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. Process). Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S41), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55) (step S42). ). The work area is backed up by a backup power source. In the backup setting table, initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set. As a result of the processing in steps S41 and S42, the saved contents of the work area that should not be initialized remain as they are. The part that should not be initialized is, for example, data indicating the gaming state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, time reduction flag, etc.), and the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer ), A portion in which data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (step S43). Further, the CPU 56 transmits a display result designation command designating a display result (probability big hit, normal big hit, sudden probability big hit, small hit, or off) stored in the backup RAM to the effect control board 80 (step). S44). Then, the process proceeds to step S14. In step S44, for example, when the value of a special symbol pointer (to be described later) is also stored in the backup RAM, the CPU 56 also transmits a first symbol variation designation command and a second symbol variation designation command (see FIG. 10). You may make it do. In this case, the production control microcomputer 100 may resume the variation display of the fourth symbol based on the reception of the first symbol variation designation command or the second symbol variation designation command.

  In this embodiment, the value of a variable time timer (to be described later) is also stored in the backup RAM area. Therefore, when the power failure is restored, after the display result designation command is transmitted in step S44, measurement of the saved variation time timer value is resumed, and the variation display of the special symbol is resumed and saved. When the value of the changed time timer has timed out, a symbol determination designation command to be described later is further transmitted. In this embodiment, a special symbol process flag value, which will be described later, is also stored in the backup RAM area. Therefore, when the power failure is recovered, the special symbol process is resumed from the process corresponding to the value of the stored special symbol process flag.

  Note that the display result designation command is not necessarily transmitted when the power failure is restored, but the CPU 56 may first confirm whether or not the value of the variable time timer stored in the backup RAM area is zero. . If the value of the variation time timer is not 0, it is determined that a power failure occurs during the variation, and a display result designation command is transmitted. It may be determined that the state has not been reached, and the display result designation command may not be transmitted.

  Further, the CPU 56 may first confirm whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag stored in the backup RAM area is 3. If the value of the special symbol process flag is 3, it is determined that the power failure occurs during the fluctuation, and a display result designation command is transmitted. If the special symbol process flag is not 3, the fluctuation occurs at the time of the power failure. The display result designation command may not be transmitted because it is determined that it is not in the middle.

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

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

  By the processing in steps S11 and S12, for example, a normal symbol per-determining random number counter, a special symbol buffer, a total prize ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, and other flags for selectively performing processing according to the control state are initialized. A value is set.

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

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

  In step S15, the CPU 56 sets a CTC register built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically generated every predetermined time (for example, 4 ms). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 4 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every 4 ms.

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

  In this embodiment, the reach effect is a state in which the effect symbols variably displayed on the effect display device 9 are in the reach state (in this example, only the left and right symbols are stopped at the same symbol and the middle symbol is continuously changed). State) or an effect using a predetermined character (for example, an effect in which an ally and an enemy character perform a battle). In addition, when the display result of the special symbol is a jackpot symbol, the reach effect is always executed (however, in the case of the sudden probability variation big hit, the reach probability sudden hit symbol (for example, “135”) is not reached but reached. May be stopped). When the display result of the special symbol is not a jackpot symbol, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether to execute the reach effect by performing a lottery to determine the variation pattern type and variation pattern using random numbers. To do. However, it is the production control microcomputer 100 that actually executes the reach production control.

  When the timer interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 executes the timer interrupt process of steps S20 to S34 shown in FIG. In the timer interrupt process, first, a power-off detection process for detecting whether or not a power-off signal is output (whether or not an on-state is turned on) is executed (step S20). The power-off signal is output, for example, when a power supply monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a decrease in the voltage of the power supplied to the gaming machine. In the power-off detection process, when detecting that the power-off signal has been output, the CPU 56 executes a power supply stop process for saving necessary data in the backup RAM area. Next, detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, and the count switch 23 are input via the input driver circuit 58, and their state is determined (switch processing: step S21). ).

  Next, the CPU 56 has a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b, a normal symbol display 10, a first special symbol hold storage display 18a, a second special symbol hold storage display 18b, a normal symbol. A display control process for controlling the display of the on-hold storage display 41 is executed (step S22). About the 1st special symbol display 8a, the 2nd special symbol display 8b, and the normal symbol display 10, a drive signal is output with respect to each display according to the content of the output buffer set by step S32, S33. Execute control.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a special symbol display control process for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of special symbols in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data according to the value of the special symbol process flag ( Step S32).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in an output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S33).

  Thereafter, the interrupt permission state is set (step S34), and the process is terminated.

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 4 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes in steps S21 to S33 (excluding step S29) in the timer interrupt process. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

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

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

  In this embodiment, when the big win symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the reach effect is executed after the variable display state of the effect symbol becomes the reach state. In the effect symbol display area, the effect symbols are all stopped and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas. (Sometimes suddenly a probable big hit symbol (for example, “135”) is stopped and displayed).

  When “5”, which is a small hit, is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display variable display mode is “suddenly probable big hit” on the effect display device 9. In the same manner as in the case where the effect symbol is variably displayed, a predetermined small hit symbol (the same symbol as the sudden probability variation big hit symbol, for example, "135") may be stopped and displayed. The display effect in the effect display device 9 corresponding to the fact that “5”, which is the small hit symbol, is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol indicator 8b is referred to as a “small hit” variable display mode. .

  Here, the small win is a hit that is allowed up to a small number of times that the big winning opening is opened compared to the big win (in this embodiment, the opening for 0.1 second is twice). When the small hit game ends, the game state does not change. That is, there is no transition from the probability variation state to the normal state or from the normal state to the certain variation state. In addition, the sudden probability change big hit is allowed up to a small number of times of opening of the big prize opening in the big hit gaming state (in this embodiment, the opening for 0.1 second is twice), but the opening time of the big prize opening is extremely large. It is a big jackpot that is a short jackpot and the game state after the big jackpot game is shifted to a probabilistic state (that is, by doing so, it appears to the player as if it suddenly became a probable state) Is). In other words, in this embodiment, the sudden winning odds and the small wins have the same opening pattern of the big prize opening. By controlling in such a way, if the winning opening is opened twice for 0.1 seconds, it is impossible to recognize whether it is suddenly a big hit or a small hit, so a high probability state for the player (Probable change state) can be expected, and the interest of the game can be improved.

  6 and 7 are explanatory diagrams showing the variation patterns of the effect symbols prepared in advance. As shown in FIG. 6, in this embodiment, the non-reach PA 1-1 to the non-reach are used as a variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “out of” and the variable display mode of the effect design is “non-reach”. A variation pattern of reach PA1-4 is prepared. Further, normal PA2-1 to normal PA2-2, normal PB2-1 to normal PB2-2 are variations patterns corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “out of” and the variable display mode of the effect symbol is “reach”. Fluctuation patterns of super PA3-1 to super PA3-4 and super PB3-1 to super PB3-2 are prepared. Among these, normal PA2-1 to normal PA2-2 are fluctuation patterns with only normal reach, and normal PB2-1 to normal PB2-2 are fluctuation patterns with pseudo-ream and normal reach. Moreover, super PA3-1 to super PA3-4 are fluctuation patterns with pseudo-reach along with super reach, and super PB3-1 to super PB3-2 are fluctuation patterns with only super reach.

  Note that the “pseudo-continuous” refers to the non-specific display result once the variable display of the identification information (change display of the effect symbol) is started and the display result is derived and displayed (during a single change display). This is an effect in which a re-variable display (re-variation) is executed once or a plurality of times after the special display result (chance eye symbol) that becomes (missing symbol) is temporarily stopped and displayed. In other words, when the display of the fluctuation is actually executed once, this is an effect that makes it appear as if the fluctuation is performed a plurality of times. In general, when a pseudo-series effect is executed, the expectation level (reliability) for the big hit increases as the number of re-variations in the pseudo-series increases. Therefore, the expectation for the big hit can be increased for the player by executing the effect of the pseudo ream and continuously executing more re-variation.

  Further, the “special display result” (chance target symbol) indicates that re-variation occurs when the non-specific display result (missing symbol) is used as a special mode display result. For example, as a special display result (chance target symbol), up to two of the left middle right symbols such as “112” and “223” are arranged in the same symbol to form a part of the specific display result (big hit symbol). However, a combination of symbols that are not reachable is used. For example, a combination of symbols such as “135” and “357” that allows the player to recognize that the numbers are arranged in a predetermined order may be used as the special display result (chance target symbol).

  Further, as shown in FIG. 6, re-variation is performed once for the variation pattern of the non-reach PA 1-4 that is used when the reach is not performed and is accompanied by a pseudo-continuous effect. Of the variation patterns used for reaching and accompanied by pseudo-rendition, when normal PB2-1 is used, re-variation is performed once. Of the variation patterns that are used for reaching and have a pseudo-continuous effect, when normal PB2-2 is used, re-variation is performed twice. Further, among the variation patterns that are used for reaching and have the effect of pseudo-continuous, when using super PA3-1 to super PA3-2, re-variation is performed once, and super PA3-3 to super PA3-4 are performed. When using, re-variation is performed twice. In addition, re-variation is a temporary stop display of an effect design (in this example, a special display result (chance target design)) that is temporarily off from when the display of the effect design is variably displayed until the display result is derived and displayed. It is to execute the variable display of the effect symbol again after the display.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 7, in this embodiment, normal PA2-3 to normal PA2-4, normal PB2 are used as variation patterns corresponding to the case where the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is a big hit symbol or a small hit symbol. -3-Normal PB2-4, Super PA3-5-Super PA3-10, Super PB3-3-Super PB3-4, Non-reach PC1-1, Special PG1-1-Special PG1-3, Special PG2-1-Special A variation pattern of PG2-2 is prepared. Among these, normal PA2-3 to normal PA2-4 are fluctuation patterns with only normal reach, and normal PB2-3 to normal PB2-4 are fluctuation patterns with pseudo-ream together with normal reach. Super PA3-5 to Super PA3-10 are fluctuation patterns with a super reach and a pseudo-ream, and super PB3-3 to super PB3-4 are a fluctuation pattern with only a super reach. Further, the non-reach PC 1-1 is a variation pattern in which the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed without going through the reach production, and the habit suddenly becomes a big hit (hereinafter referred to as the production pattern according to the variation pattern of the non-reach PC 1-1). The case where a change is displayed and a big hit is also called “sudden big hit”). In FIG. 7, the variation patterns of special PG1-1 to special PG1-3 and special PG2-1 to special PG2-2 are variation patterns used when suddenly sudden change is a big hit or a small hit.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 7, when normal PB2-3 is used among the fluctuation patterns that are used when sudden sudden change is not big hit or small hit and has a pseudo-continuous effect, re-change is performed once. Of the fluctuation patterns used for reaching and accompanied by pseudo-continuous effects, when normal PB2-4 is used, re-variation is performed twice. Further, when using Super PA 3-5 to Super PA 3-6, the re-variation is performed once, and when using Super PA 3-7 to Super PA 3-8, the re-variation is performed twice. When the super PA 3-10 is used, re-variation is performed three times. In addition, regarding the variation pattern of the special PG 1-3 that is used in the case of sudden probability big hit or small hit and accompanied by the effect of pseudo-ream, re-variation is performed once. In this embodiment, since the fluctuation pattern (super PA 3-9 to super PA 3-10) with the re-variation frequency of 3 is used only in the case of a big hit, the re-variation occurs 3 times during the pseudo-ream. If done, it can be recognized that the jackpot has been finalized.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1 (MR1): Determines the type of jackpot (normal jackpot, probability variation jackpot, sudden probability variation jackpot described later) (for jackpot type determination)
(2) Random 2 (MR2): The type (type) of the variation pattern is determined (for variation pattern type determination)
(3) Random 3 (MR3): A variation pattern (variation time) is determined (for variation pattern determination)
(4) Random 4 (MR4): Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(5) Random 5 (MR5): Determine the initial value of random 4 (for determining the initial value of random 4)

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

  The variation pattern type is a group of a plurality of variation patterns according to the characteristics of the variation mode. For example, grouping multiple variation patterns by reach type, variation pattern type including variation pattern without reach, variation pattern type including variation pattern with normal reach, and variation pattern including variation pattern with super reach It may be divided into types. Further, for example, when a pseudo-run is configured to be executable, a plurality of change patterns are grouped by the number of re-changes of the pseudo-run, a change pattern type including a change pattern not accompanied by a pseudo-run, and a re-change 1 It may be divided into a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of the first time, a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of the second variation, and a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of the third variation. In addition, for example, in a case where a specific effect such as a slip effect can be executed in addition to the pseudo ream, a plurality of variation patterns may be grouped according to the presence or absence of a specific effect such as a pseudo ream or a slide effect.

  In step S23 in the game control process shown in FIG. 5, the game control microcomputer 560 uses a counter for generating the jackpot type determination random number (1) and the random number for determination per ordinary symbol (4). Count up (add 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers (random 2, random 3) or initial value random numbers (random 5). In addition, in order to improve a game effect, you may use random numbers other than said random number. In this embodiment, a random number generated by hardware incorporated in the game control microcomputer 560 (or hardware external to the game control microcomputer 560) is used as the jackpot determination random number. Note that a software random number instead of a hardware random number may be used as the jackpot determination random number.

  FIG. 9A is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54 and is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The jackpot determination table includes a normal-time jackpot determination table used in a normal state (a gaming state that is not a probability change state) and a probability change jackpot determination table used in a probability change state. Each numerical value described in the left column of FIG. 9 (A) is set in the normal jackpot determination table, and each numerical value described in the right column of FIG. 9 (A) is set in the probability variation big hit determination table. Is set. The numerical value described in FIG. 9A is a jackpot determination value.

  9B and 9C are explanatory diagrams showing a small hit determination table. The small hit determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54 and is a table in which a small hit determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The small hit determination table includes a small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) used when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, and a small hit determination table used when the variable display of the second special symbol is performed. (For the second special symbol). Each value described in FIG. 9B is set in the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol), and in the small hit determination table (for the second special symbol), the values shown in FIG. Each numerical value listed is set. Moreover, the numerical values described in FIGS. 9B and 9C are small hit determination values.

  Note that it may be determined that a small hit is made only when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, and the small hit may not be provided when the variable display of the second special symbol is performed. In this case, the small hit determination table for the second special symbol shown in FIG. In this embodiment, when the gaming state is shifted to the probability changing state, the variation display of the second special symbol is mainly executed. Even if the game state is shifted to the probability change state, a small hit will be generated, and if it is configured to produce an effect asking whether or not the probability change will occur, even though the current game state is the probability change state On the contrary, it makes the player feel annoying. Therefore, if it is configured so that the small hit does not occur during the variation display of the second special symbol, if the gaming state is the probability variation state, it is difficult for the small hit to occur and the excessive effect is not given to the probability variation. This can prevent the player from feeling annoyed.

  The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and sets the extracted value as the value of the big hit determination random number (random R). The big hit determination random number is shown in FIG. If it matches any of the big hit determination values, the special symbol is decided to be a big hit (a normal big hit, a probability variation big hit, and a sudden probability variation big hit described later). Further, when the big hit determination random number value matches one of the small hit determination values shown in FIGS. 9B and 9C, it is determined to make a small hit for the special symbol. Note that “probability” shown in FIG. 9A indicates the probability (ratio) of a big hit. Further, the “probability” shown in FIGS. 9B and 9C indicates the probability (ratio) of making a small hit. Further, deciding whether or not to win a jackpot means deciding whether or not to shift to the jackpot gaming state, but the stop symbol in the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b is determined. It also means deciding whether or not to make a jackpot symbol. Further, determining whether or not to make a small hit means determining whether or not to shift to the small hit gaming state, but stopping in the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b. It also means determining whether or not the symbol is to be a small hit symbol.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 9B and 9C, when the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) is used, the small hit is determined at a ratio of 1/300. On the other hand, when using the small hit determination table (second special symbol), a case where the small hit is determined at a ratio of 1/3000 will be described. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the start winning prize is given to the first start winning opening 13 and the first special symbol variation display is executed, the start winning prize is given to the second starting winning prize slot 14 and the second special symbol is displayed. The ratio determined as “small hit” is higher than when the variable display is executed.

  FIGS. 9D and 9E are explanatory diagrams showing the jackpot type determination tables 131 a and 131 b stored in the ROM 54. Among these, FIG. 9D determines the jackpot type using the holding memory based on the fact that the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13 (that is, when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed). This is a jackpot type determination table (for the first special symbol) 131a. FIG. 9E shows a case where the jackpot type is determined by using the holding memory based on the fact that the game ball has won the second start winning opening 14 (that is, when the variation display of the second special symbol is performed). Is a jackpot type determination table (for the second special symbol) 131b.

  The jackpot type determination tables 131a and 131b, when it is determined that the variable display result is a jackpot symbol, based on the random number (random 1) for determining the jackpot type, the jackpot type is set to “normal jackpot”, “ This table is referred to in order to determine one of “probability big hit” and “sudden probability big hit”. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 9D and 9E, 10 determination values are assigned to “suddenly probable big hit” in the big hit type determination table 131a (40 minutes). 3 is assigned to the jackpot type determination table 131b for “sudden probability change big hit” (a ratio of 3/40). Will suddenly be determined to be a promising big hit). Therefore, in this embodiment, when the start winning prize is given to the first start winning opening 13 and the first special symbol variation display is executed, the start winning prize is given to the second starting winning prize slot 14 and the second special symbol is displayed. Compared with the case where the variable display is executed, the ratio determined as “suddenly probable big hit” is high. Note that “sudden probability variation big hit” is assigned only to the first special symbol jackpot type determination table 131a, and “sudden probability variation big hit” is not assigned to the second special symbol big hit type determination table 131b (ie, It may be determined that “suddenly probable big hit” may be determined only when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 9D and 9E, as the first specific gaming state to which a predetermined amount of gaming value is given, there are two rounds of sudden probable big hits and more than the gaming value. As the second specific gaming state to which the amount of gaming value is given, it is determined that 15 rounds of big hit (probable big hit or normal big hit), and when the first special symbol variation display is executed, the first specific gaming state is at a high rate. Although the case where it decides to do is shown, the game value given is not limited to the number of rounds as shown in this embodiment. For example, as compared with the first specific gaming state, the second specific gaming state in which the allowable amount of the winning number (count number) of game balls to the big winning opening per round is increased as the gaming value is determined. Also good. Further, for example, as compared with the first specific gaming state, the second specific gaming state in which the opening time of the big winning opening per game during the big hit may be determined as the gaming value. In addition, for example, even if the same 15 round big hits, the first specific gaming state that opens the big winning opening once per round and the second specific gaming state that opens the big winning opening multiple times per round It may be prepared to increase the gaming value of the second specific gaming state by substantially increasing the number of times the special winning opening is opened.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 9D and 9E, the types of jackpots include “normal jackpot”, “probability variation jackpot”, and “sudden probability variation jackpot”.

  The “probable big hit” is a big hit that is controlled to 15 rounds of the big hit gaming state and shifts to the probable change state after the big hit gaming state is finished (in this embodiment, it is changed to the probable change state and the short time state is also entered. (See steps S170 and S171 described later). After the transition to the probability variation state, the probability variation state is maintained until the next big hit occurs (see step S134 described later).

  In addition, the “ordinary big hit” is a big hit that is controlled to the big round gaming state of 15 rounds and is not shifted to the probability change state after the big hit gaming state is ended, but is shifted only to the short time state (see step S167 described later). . Then, after shifting to the time-short state, the time-short state is maintained until the execution of the variable symbol display of the special symbol and the effect symbol is completed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) (see steps S142 to S145 described later). In this embodiment, the time reduction state also ends when a big hit occurs after the transition to the time reduction state and before the execution of the predetermined number of variable displays is ended (see step S134 described later).

  In this embodiment, when the big hit type is determined to be a probable big hit or a normal big hit, the fluctuation pattern of the non-reach PC 1-1 (a sudden big hit fluctuation pattern, see FIG. 7) may be determined. In this case, after the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed without going through the reach production, and the production that makes it appear that the bag suddenly has been a big hit is executed, the game is controlled to the 15-round big hit gaming state.

  In addition, “suddenly promising big hit” means that the number of times of opening the big winning opening is smaller than in “probable big hit” or “normal big hit” (in this embodiment, opening for 0.1 second is allowed twice). Is a big hit. In other words, when “suddenly promising big hit”, the game is controlled to a two round big hit gaming state. In this embodiment, after the two-round jackpot gaming state is finished, the state is changed to the probability changing state (in this embodiment, the state is changed to the probability changing state and also to the short time state. Step S170 to be described later). However, in order to make it harder to recognize whether it is a sudden big hit or a small hit, the transition to the right change state (high probability state) is made only when a sudden big odd hit is made during the right change state. It is also possible to shift to the short-time state (high base state), and to shift to the high-probability state only when suddenly probable big hit during the normal state, not to shift to the short-time state (high base state). Good.) After the transition to the probability variation state, the probability variation state is maintained until the next big hit occurs (see step S134 described later).

  As described above, in this embodiment, even in the case of “small hit”, the big winning opening is opened twice for 0.1 seconds each, Similar control is performed. In the case of “small hit”, the game state does not change after the opening of the big winning opening twice, and the game state before “small hit” is maintained (described later). Steps S147 to S151). By doing so, it is made impossible to recognize whether it is “suddenly promising big hit” or “small hit”, and the interest of the game is improved.

  The big hit type determination tables 131a and 131b are numerical values to be compared with a random 1 value, and corresponding to the “normal big hit”, “probability variable big hit”, and “suddenly probable big hit” (big hit type determination value) ) Is set. When the value of random 1 matches any of the jackpot type determination values, the CPU 56 determines the jackpot type as a type corresponding to the matched jackpot type determination value.

  10 and 11 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. FIG. In the example shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the command 80XX (H) is an effect control command (variation pattern command) that specifies a variation pattern of the effect symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in response to variable display of the special symbol. (Each corresponding to a variation pattern XX). That is, when a unique number is assigned to each of the usable variation patterns shown in FIG. 6, there is a variation pattern command corresponding to each variation pattern specified by the number. “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number. The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the start of variation. Therefore, when receiving the command 80XX (H), the effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to start variable display of effect symbols.

  Commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit, whether or not to make a big hit, and a big hit type. The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the display result of the effect symbols in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H), and the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C05 (H) are referred to as display result designation commands.

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

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

  Command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (initialization designation command: power-on designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Command 9200 (H) is an effect control command (power failure recovery designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is resumed. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the gaming control microcomputer 560 transmits a power failure recovery designation command if the data is stored in the backup RAM, and otherwise designates initialization. Send a command.

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

  The commands A001 to A003 (H) are effect control commands for displaying the fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of the big hit game (big hit start designation command: fanfare designation command). The big hit start designation commands include a big hit start 1 designation command, a big hit start 2 designation command, and a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command corresponding to the type of big hit. Note that the game control microcomputer 560 is configured to transmit a fanfare designation command for sudden start of sudden probability change big hit when it is a sudden chance big hit, but not to send a fanfare designation command for small hit. Also good.

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

  The command A301 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, the end of the jackpot game and specifying that the jackpot game is normally a big jackpot (a jackpot end 1 designation command: an ending 1 designation command). is there. Command A302 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the jackpot end screen, that is, the end of the jackpot game and specifying that it is a probable big hit (big hit end 2 designation command: ending 2 designation command). is there. Command A 303 (H) is an effect control command (small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit end designation command: ending 3 designation command) that designates the end of the small hit game or the sudden probability change big hit game. The game control microcomputer 560 is configured to transmit an ending designation command for suddenly probable big hit end designation in the case of sudden probable big hit, but not to send an ending designation command in the case of small hit. Also good.

  Command B000 (H) is an effect control command (normal state background designation command) for designating background display when the gaming state is the normal state. Command B001 (H) is an effect control command (time-short state background designation command) for designating a background display when the gaming state is the time-short state (not including the probability variation state). Command B002 (H) is an effect control command (probability change state background designation command) for designating a background display when the gaming state is in the probability change state.

  Command C000 (H) is an effect control command (first reserved memory number addition designation command) that specifies that the first reserved memory number has increased by one. Command C100 (H) is an effect control command (second reserved memory number addition designation command) that specifies that the second reserved memory number has increased by one. Command C200 (H) is an effect control command (first reserved memory number subtraction designation command) that specifies that the first reserved memory number has decreased by one. Command C300 (H) is an effect control command (second reserved memory number subtraction designation command) that specifies that the second reserved memory number has decreased by one.

  In this embodiment, a case is shown in which an effect control command indicating that the number of reserved memories is increased or decreased is transmitted for each of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number. You may make it transmit the production control command which designates itself. In this case, for example, an effect control command for designating which one of the first start prize opening 13 and the second start prize opening 14 has been won is transmitted, and the reserved memory number designation command for designating the reserved memory number is designated as the first. You may make it transmit a common production | presentation control command by 1 reserved memory number and 2nd reserved memory number.

  Further, for example, separate presentation control commands (holding memory number designation commands) may be transmitted when the first holding memory number is designated and when the second holding memory number is designated. In this case, for example, as a reserved memory number designation command, a value that can specify the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number as MODE data (for example, “C0 (H) when designating the first reserved memory number) ”And“ C1 (H) ”in the case of designating the second reserved memory number), an effect control command in which the value of the reserved memory number is set as EXT data may be transmitted.

  Also, for example, if the same first reserved memory number is specified, an effect control command specifying the addition or subtraction of the first reserved memory number is transmitted by making the MODE data common and different EXT data. You may do it. For example, when the common MODE data “C0 (H)” is used and the subtraction of the first reserved memory number is designated, the command C000 (H) is transmitted, and the addition of the first reserved memory number is designated. The command C001 (H) may be transmitted. Further, when specifying the second reserved memory number, the MODE data is made different, and when specifying the subtraction of the second reserved memory number, the command C100 (H) is transmitted, and the second reserved memory number is determined. When adding is designated, the command C101 (H) may be transmitted.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the above-described effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31. Then, the display state of the image display device 9 is changed according to the contents shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the display state of the lamp is changed, and the sound number data is output to the sound output board 70. To do.

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

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

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

  In the example shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11, the variable pattern command and the display result designation command are displayed as variable display (variation) of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol. Image display that can be used in common with variable display (variation) of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation of the second special symbol on the symbol display 8b, and that produces an effect with the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. It is possible to prevent an increase in the types of commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100 when controlling the effect parts such as the device 9.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process (step S26) program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process, a process for controlling the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the special winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process, the CPU 56 turns on the first start winning opening 13 when the first start opening switch 13a for detecting that the game ball has won the first start winning opening 13 is turned on. Has occurred, or if the second start opening switch 14a for detecting that the game ball has won the second start winning opening 14 is turned on, that is, the start winning to the second start winning opening 14 occurs. If so, start port switch passage processing is executed (steps S311 and S312). Then, any one of steps S300 to S310 is performed. If neither the first start winning port switch 13a nor the second start port switch 14a is turned on, the process proceeds to steps S300 to S310 according to the internal state without proceeding to the start port switch passing process (step S312). Do one of the following.

  The processes in steps S300 to S310 are as follows.

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

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

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

  Special symbol changing process (step S303): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in step S301 times out, that is, the variation time timer value becomes 0), the design control microcomputer 100 determines the symbol. Control to transmit the designated command is performed, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (4 in this example) corresponding to step S304. The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the fourth symbol when receiving the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560.

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. When the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. If the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (8 in this example) corresponding to step S308. If neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 (in this example, 0). In this embodiment, as will be described later, a special symbol display control for stopping and displaying a special symbol stop symbol in the special symbol display control process based on the fact that the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. The data is set in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data (see FIG. 22), and the special symbol stop symbol is actually stopped and displayed in accordance with the setting contents of the output buffer in the display control processing in step S22.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S305): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S306 (6 in this example). Note that the pre-opening process for the big winning opening is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the pre-opening process for the big winning opening is also a process for starting the big hit game.

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

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

  Small hit release pre-processing (step S308): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 8. In the pre-opening process for small hits, control is performed to open the big prize opening. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S309 (9 in this example). Note that the pre-opening process for small hits is executed each time the big winning opening during the small hit game is opened. It is also a process to start.

  Small hit release processing (step S309): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 9. Processing to confirm the establishment of the closing condition of the big prize opening is performed. When the closing condition of the big prize opening is satisfied and the number of opening of the big prize opening still remains, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value (8 in this example) corresponding to step S308. Update. In addition, when all of the special winning openings are finished, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (10 in this example) corresponding to step S310.

  Small hit end process (step S310): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 10. Control for causing the production control microcomputer 100 to perform display control for notifying the player that the small hit gaming state has ended is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process in step S312. In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the first start port switch 13a is on (step S211). If the first start port switch 13a is not turned on, the process proceeds to step S217. If the first start port switch 13a is ON, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the first reserved memory number has reached the upper limit (specifically, the first reserved memory for counting the first reserved memory number). Whether or not the value of the number counter is 4 is confirmed (step S212). If the first reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value, the process proceeds to step S217.

  If the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increments the value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S213), and the value of the total reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number Is increased by 1 (step S214). Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in a storage area in the first reserved storage buffer (see FIG. 14) (step S215). . In the process of step S215, a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, a variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and a variation pattern A random number for determination (random 3) is extracted and stored in the storage area. It should be noted that the random number for random pattern determination (random 3) is not extracted and stored in the storage area in advance in the start opening switch passage process (at the time of start winning), but is extracted at the start of the variation of the first special symbol. May be. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may directly extract a value from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern determination random number (random 3) in a variation pattern setting process described later.

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

  Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the first reserved memory number addition designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S216).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second start port switch 14a is on (step S217). If the second start port switch 14a is not turned on, the processing is terminated as it is. If the second start port switch 14a is on, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the second reserved memory number has reached the upper limit value (specifically, the second reserved memory for counting the second reserved memory number). Whether or not the value of the number counter is 4 is confirmed (step S218). If the second reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value, the processing is terminated as it is.

  If the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increases the value of the second reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S219), and the value of the aggregate reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number Is increased by 1 (step S220). Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in a storage area in the second reserved storage buffer (see FIG. 14) (step S221). . In the process of step S221, a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, a variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and a variation pattern A random number for determination (random 3) is extracted and stored in the storage area. It should be noted that the random number for random pattern determination (random 3) is not extracted and stored in the storage area in advance in the start-port switch passing process (at the time of start winning), but is extracted at the start of the variation of the second special symbol. May be. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may directly extract a value from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern determination random number (random 3) in a variation pattern setting process described later.

  Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the second reserved memory number addition designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S222).

  15 and 16 are flowcharts showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 confirms the value of the total pending storage number (step S51). Specifically, the count value of the total pending storage number counter is confirmed. If the total pending storage number is 0, if the customer waiting demonstration designation command has not yet been transmitted, control is performed to send the customer waiting demonstration designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S51A), and the processing is performed. finish. For example, when the CPU 56 transmits a customer waiting demonstration designation command in step S51A, the CPU 56 sets a customer waiting demonstration designation command transmitted flag indicating that the customer waiting demonstration designation command has been transmitted. When the special symbol normal processing after the next timer interruption is executed after sending the customer waiting demo designation command, the customer waiting demonstration request command is repeatedly set based on the fact that the customer waiting demo designation command transmission completed flag is set. Control should be performed so that the demo designation command is not transmitted. In this case, the customer waiting demonstration designation command transmission completion flag may be reset when the next special symbol variation display is started.

  If the total reserved memory number is not 0, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second reserved memory number is 0 (step S52). Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the second reserved memory number counter is zero. If the second reserved memory number is not 0, the CPU 56 has a special symbol pointer (a flag indicating whether the special symbol process is being performed for the first special symbol or the special symbol process is being performed for the second special symbol). Is set to data indicating “second” (step S53). If the second reserved memory number is 0 (that is, only the first reserved memory number is accumulated), the CPU 66 sets data indicating “first” in the special symbol pointer (step S54).

  In this embodiment, by executing the processing of steps S52 to S54, the variation display of the second special symbol is executed with priority over the variation display of the first special symbol. In other words, control is performed so that the second start condition for starting the variable display of the second special symbol is established in preference to the first start condition for starting the variable display of the first special symbol.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved storage number = 1 indicated by the special symbol pointer in the RAM 55 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S55). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 determines each disturbance stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = 1 in the first reserved memory number buffer. The numerical value is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 reads each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = 1 in the second reserved memory number buffer. And stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55.

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

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

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

  Then, the CPU 56 decreases the value of the total pending storage number by one. That is, 1 is subtracted from the count value of the total pending storage number counter (step S58). The CPU 56 stores the value of the total pending storage number counter before the count value is decremented by 1 in a predetermined area of the RAM 55.

  Moreover, CPU56 performs control which transmits a background designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for effect control according to the present game state (step S60). In this case, when the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state is set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a probability variation state background designation command. Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a time reduction state background designation command when the time variation flag indicating that the time reduction state is not set and the time reduction state is set. If neither the probability change flag nor the time reduction flag is set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a normal state background designation command.

  In this embodiment, the background designation command is transmitted every time for each variation. For example, it is determined at the start of the variation whether or not the gaming state has changed since the previous variation. Only when the state changes, a background designation command corresponding to the changed gaming state may be transmitted. With such a configuration, the number of transmissions of the background designation command can be reduced, and the processing burden on the game control microcomputer 560 can be reduced.

  Specifically, when the CPU 56 transmits the effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the address of the command transmission table (preliminarily set for each command in the ROM) corresponding to the effect control command is given. Set to pointer. And the address of the command transmission table according to an effect control command is set to a pointer, and an effect control command is transmitted in an effect control command control process (step S28). In this embodiment, when the variation of the special symbol is started, the effect control microcomputer in the order of the background designation command, the variation pattern command, the display result designation command, and the reserved memory number subtraction designation command for each timer interrupt. 100 will be transmitted. Specifically, when the change of the special symbol is started, first, the background designation command is transmitted, the variation pattern command is transmitted after 4 ms elapses, the display result designation command is transmitted after elapse of 4 ms, and further after 4 ms elapses. A pending storage count subtraction designation command is transmitted. In addition, the symbol variation designation command (the first symbol variation designation command, the second symbol variation designation command) is also transmitted when the special symbol variation starts, but the symbol variation designation command is the same timer interrupt as the variation pattern command. Is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100.

  In the special symbol normal process, first, data indicating “first” indicating that the process is executed for the first start winning opening 13, that is, “first” indicating that the process is executed for the first special symbol. ”Or“ second ”indicating that the process is performed on the second special symbol, that is,“ second ”indicating that the process is performed on the second start winning opening 14. Data is set in the special symbol pointer. In the subsequent processing in the special symbol process, processing corresponding to the data set in the special symbol pointer is executed. Therefore, the process of steps S300 to S310 can be made common between the case of targeting the first special symbol and the case of targeting the second special symbol.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads a random R (a jackpot determination random number) from the random number buffer area and executes a jackpot determination module. In this case, the CPU 56 reads out the jackpot determination random numbers extracted in steps S215 and S221 of the start port switch passage processing and stored in advance in the first hold storage buffer and the second hold storage buffer, and performs the jackpot determination. The big hit determination module compares the big hit determination value or the small hit determination value (see FIG. 9) determined in advance with the big hit determination random number, and if they match, executes the process of determining the big hit or the small hit It is a program to do. That is, it is a program that executes a big hit determination or a small hit determination process.

  The jackpot determination process is configured such that when the gaming state is a probable change state (high probability state), the probability of a big hit is higher than when the gaming state is a non-probability change state (normal game state and short-time state). ing. Specifically, a jackpot determination table (a table in which the numerical value on the right side of FIG. 9A in the ROM 54 is set) in which a large number of jackpot determination values is set in advance, and the number of jackpot determination values are definitely changed. There is provided a normal big hit determination table (a table in which the numerical value on the left side of FIG. 9A in the ROM 54 is set) set to be smaller than the hour big hit determination table. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the gaming state is a probability variation state. If the gaming state is a probability variation state, the CPU 56 performs a jackpot determination process using the probability variation jackpot determination table. When in the gaming state or the short-time state, the big hit determination process is performed using the normal big hit determination table. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches one of the big hit determination values shown in FIG. 9A, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a big hit. When it is determined to be a big hit (step S61), the process proceeds to step S71. Note that deciding whether to win or not is to decide whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state, but to decide whether or not to stop the special symbol display as a big hit symbol. But there is.

  Note that whether or not the current gaming state is the probability variation state is determined by whether or not the probability variation flag is set. The probability variation flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, and is reset when the probability variation state is terminated. Specifically, it is determined to be a probable big hit or suddenly probable big hit, and is set in the process of ending the big hit game, and when the big hit is determined, the special symbol variation display is terminated and the stop symbol is stopped and displayed. Reset at timing.

  If the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) does not match any of the big hit determination values (N in step S61), the CPU 56 uses the small hit determination table (see FIGS. 9B and 9C). Then, the small hit determination process is performed. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches one of the small hit determination values shown in FIGS. 9B and 9C, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a small hit. In this case, the CPU 56 confirms the data indicated by the special symbol pointer. When the data indicated by the special symbol pointer is “first”, the small hit determination table (for the first special symbol) shown in FIG. ) To determine whether or not to make a small hit. If the data indicated by the special symbol pointer is “second”, it is determined whether or not to make a small hit using the small hit determination table (for the second special symbol) shown in FIG. 9C. . If it is determined to be a small hit (step S62), the CPU 56 sets a small hit flag indicating a small hit (step S63), and proceeds to step S75.

  If the random R value does not match either the big hit determination value or the small hit determination value (N in step S62), that is, if it is out of place, the process proceeds to step S75 as it is.

  In step S71, the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag indicating that it is a big hit. Then, the jackpot type determination table indicated by the special symbol pointer is selected as a table used to determine the jackpot type as one of a plurality of types (step S72). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 selects the jackpot type determination table 131a for the first special symbol shown in FIG. 9D. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 selects a big hit type determination table 131b for the second special symbol shown in FIG. 9E.

  Next, the CPU 56 uses the selected jackpot type determination table to select a type (“normal jackpot”, “probability change”) corresponding to the value of the random number for random determination (random 1) stored in the random number buffer area. "Big hit" or "Suddenly probable big hit") is determined as the type of big hit (step S73). In this case, the CPU 56 reads out the jackpot type determination random numbers extracted in steps S215 and S221 of the start port switch passing process and stored in advance in the first hold memory buffer and the second hold memory buffer, and determines the jackpot type. . Also, in this case, as shown in FIGS. 9D and 9E, when the variable display of the first special symbol is executed, it is compared with the case where the variable display of the second special symbol is executed. Therefore, the rate at which suddenly probable big hits are selected is high.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets data indicating the determined jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (step S74). For example, when the big hit type is “normal big hit”, “01” is set as data indicating the big hit type, and when the big hit type is “probable big hit”, “02” is set as the data indicating the big hit type, When the big hit type is “suddenly probable big hit”, “03” is set as data indicating the big hit type.

  Next, the CPU 56 determines a special symbol stop symbol (step S75). Specifically, when neither the big hit flag nor the small hit flag is set, “−” which is a loss symbol is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the big hit flag is set, one of “1”, “3”, and “7”, which is a big hit symbol, is determined as a special symbol stop symbol according to the determination result of the big hit type. That is, when the big hit type is determined to be “suddenly promising big hit”, “1” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol, and when “normal big hit” is determined, “3” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. If “probable big hit” is determined, “7” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol. When the small hit flag is set, “5” as the small hit symbol is determined as the special symbol stop symbol.

  In this embodiment, the case where the jackpot type is first determined and the stop symbol of the special symbol corresponding to the determined jackpot type is shown, but the method for determining the jackpot type and the stop symbol of the special symbol is as follows. It is not limited to what is shown in the embodiment. For example, a table in which a special symbol stop symbol and a jackpot type are associated in advance is prepared, and when a special symbol stop symbol is first determined based on the random number for determining the big hit type, the corresponding jackpot is determined based on the determination result. You may comprise so that a classification may also be determined.

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

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S81). When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 selects the big hit variation pattern type determination table as a table used to determine any one of a plurality of variation pattern types (step S82). Then, the process proceeds to step S90.

  When the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S83). When the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 selects the small hit variation pattern type determination table as a table used for determining one of a plurality of variation pattern types (step S84). ). Then, the process proceeds to step S90.

  When the small hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag indicating that the time reduction state is set (step S85). The time reduction flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the time reduction state (including the time of shifting to the probability change state), and is reset when the time reduction state is ended. Specifically, it is usually determined to be a big hit, a probable big hit or a sudden probable big hit, set in the process of ending the big hit game, and the timing of digesting the number of times or the special symbol changes when it is determined to be a big hit It is reset when the display is terminated and the stop symbol is stopped and displayed. If the time reduction flag is set (Y in step S85), the CPU 56 proceeds to step S89.

  If the time reduction flag is not set (N in Step S85), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the total number of pending storages is 3 or more (Step S86). If the total number of pending storages is less than 3 (N in step S86), the CPU 56 determines the variation pattern type for normal use as a table used to determine the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types. A table is selected (step S87). Then, the process proceeds to step S90.

  When the total pending storage number is 3 or more (Y in step S86), the CPU 56 uses the shortening variation pattern as a table to be used for determining one of a plurality of variation pattern types. A type determination table is selected (step S88). Then, the process proceeds to step S90.

  When the time reduction flag is set (Y in step S85), the CPU 56 uses the time reduction variation pattern type determination as a table used to determine the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types. A table is selected (step S89). Then, the process proceeds to step S90.

  In this embodiment, when the total number of pending storages is 3 or more by executing the processing of steps S85 to S89, the shortening variation pattern type determination table for selection is selected. In addition, when the gaming state is the short-time state (including the case where the probability variation state is included), the time-varying variation pattern type determination table is selected. In this case, the variation pattern type for shortening variation may be determined in the process of step S90 described later. When the variation pattern type for shortening variation is determined, the variation of shortening as the variation pattern in the process of step S92 is performed. Non-reach PA1-2 is determined (see FIG. 6). Therefore, in this embodiment, when the gaming state is the short-time state (including the case where the probability variation state is included) or when the total number of pending storages is 3 or more, the variation display of the shortening variation may be performed. . In this embodiment, the case where the time variation pattern type determination table used in the time reduction state is different from the time variation pattern type determination table for shortening based on the number of reserved memories is shown. May be used.

  In this embodiment, even if the gaming state is a short-time state, if the total number of pending storage is almost 0 (for example, 0, 0, or 1), the shortened The fluctuation display of fluctuation may not be performed. In this case, for example, when the CPU 56 determines Y in step S85, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the total number of reserved storage is almost zero. A variation pattern type determination table may be selected.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads the random 2 (variation pattern type determination random number) from the random number buffer area (the first reserved storage buffer or the second reserved storage buffer) and selects it in the process of steps S82, S84, S87, S88 or S89. By referring to the table, the variation pattern type is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S90).

  Next, based on the determination result of the variation pattern type in step S90, the CPU 56 uses a hit variation pattern determination table or a deviation variation pattern determination table as a table to be used for determining one of a plurality of variation patterns. One of them is selected (step S91). Further, the random pattern 3 (random number for variation pattern determination) is read from the random number buffer area (first reserved storage buffer or second reserved storage buffer), and the variation pattern is determined by referring to the variation pattern determination table selected in step S91. Is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S92). When the random number 3 (variation pattern determination random number) is not extracted at the start winning timing, the CPU 56 uses the variation pattern determination random number counter for generating the variation pattern determination random number (random 3). It is also possible to extract the value directly from and to determine the variation pattern based on the extracted random number value.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the symbol variation designation command indicated by the special symbol pointer to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S93). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a first symbol variation designation command. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a second symbol variation designation command. Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit an effect control command (variation pattern command) corresponding to the determined variation pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S94).

  Next, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the variation time corresponding to the selected variation pattern in the variation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S95). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the display result designation command transmission process (step S302) (step S96).

  In the case where it is determined to be out of place, instead of suddenly determining the variation pattern type, first, it may be determined whether or not to reach by a lottery process using a random number for reach determination. Then, based on the determination result as to whether or not to reach, the processing of steps S85 to S89 and S90 may be executed to determine the variation pattern type. In this case, a variation pattern type determination table for non-reach and a variation pattern type determination table for reach are prepared in advance, and one of the variation pattern type determination tables is selected based on the reach determination result. The variation pattern type may be determined.

  In addition, when determining whether or not to reach by a lottery process using a reach determination random number, depending on the total reserved memory number (which may be the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number), Reach determination tables with different selection ratios may be selected, and it may be determined whether or not to reach so that the reach probability decreases as the number of reserved memories increases.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the display result designation command transmission process (step S302). In the display result designation command transmission process, the CPU 56 transmits one of the presentation control commands (display result 1 designation to display result 5 designation) (see FIG. 10) according to the determined type of big hit, small hit, and loss. Control. Specifically, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S110). If not set, the process proceeds to step S116. When the big hit flag is set, when the big hit type is a probable big hit, control is performed to transmit a display result 3 designation command (steps S111 and S112). Specifically, whether or not it is a probable big hit can be determined by checking whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal process is “02”. Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 4 designation command when the big hit type is suddenly probable big hit (steps S113 and S114). Whether or not it is a sudden probability variation big hit can be specifically determined by checking whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal process is “03”. Then, when neither the probability variation big hit nor the sudden probability variation big hit is obtained (that is, when it is a normal big hit), the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 2 designation command (step S115).

  On the other hand, when the big hit flag is not set (N in step S110), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S116). If the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 5 designation command (step S117). When the small hit flag is not set (N in Step S116), that is, when it is out of place, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 1 designation command (Step S118).

  Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S303) (step S119).

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the special symbol changing process (step S303) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol changing process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not a pending storage number subtraction designation command has already been transmitted (step S121). Whether or not the pending storage number subtraction designation command has already been transmitted indicates, for example, that the pending storage number subtraction designation command has been transmitted when the pending storage number subtraction designation command is transmitted in step S122 described later. The stored number subtraction designation command transmission completion flag may be set, and in step S121, it may be confirmed whether or not the pending storage number subtraction designation command transmission completion flag is set. Also, in this case, the set reserved memory number subtraction designation command transmission completion flag is reset by special symbol stop processing or jackpot end processing, which will be described later, when the special symbol fluctuation display is terminated or when the big jackpot is terminated. That's fine.

  Next, if the reserved memory number subtraction designation command has not been transmitted, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the reserved memory number subtraction designation command indicated by the special symbol pointer to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S122). In this case, when a value indicating “first” is set in the special symbol pointer, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a first reserved memory number subtraction designation command. If a value indicating “second” is set in the special symbol pointer, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a second reserved memory number subtraction designation command.

  Next, the CPU 56 subtracts 1 from the variation time timer (step S125). When the variation time timer times out (step S126), the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a symbol confirmation designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S127). Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop process (step S304) (step S128). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process ends.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S133). When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the probability change flag indicating the probability change state or the time reduction flag indicating the time reduction state is set, and the probability change flag or time reduction flag is set. If is set, the probability variation flag and the time reduction flag are reset (step S134). Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a big hit start designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S135). Specifically, when the type of jackpot is normally jackpot, a jackpot start 1 designation command is transmitted. If the jackpot type is a probabilistic jackpot, a jackpot start 2 designation command is transmitted. When the big hit type is sudden probability change big hit, a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command is transmitted. Whether the big hit type is a normal big hit, a probable big hit or a sudden probable big hit is determined based on the data indicating the big hit type stored in the RAM 55 (data stored in the big hit type buffer). .

  In addition, a value corresponding to the jackpot display time (a time for which the effect display device 9 notifies that the jackpot has occurred, for example) is set in the jackpot display time timer (step S137). In addition, the number of times of opening (for example, 15 times in the case of a normal big hit or a probable big hit, 2 times in the case of a sudden probable big hit) is set in the big prize opening number counter (step S138). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the pre-winner opening pre-processing (step S305) (step S139).

  On the other hand, if the big hit flag is not set in step S133, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state is set (step S140). If the probability variation flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag indicating that the time reduction state is set (step S141). When the time reduction flag is set (that is, when the time change state is not controlled and only the time reduction state is controlled), the value of the time reduction counter indicating the number of times that the special symbol can be changed in the time reduction state is- 1 (step S142). When the value of the time reduction counter after subtraction becomes 0 (step S144), the CPU 56 resets the time reduction flag (step S145).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the small hit flag is set (step S147). If the small hit flag is set, the CPU 56 transmits a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S148). In addition, a value corresponding to the small hit display time (for example, the time when the effect display device 9 notifies that the small hit has occurred) is set in the small hit display time timer (step S149). Further, the number of times of opening (for example, 2 times) is set in the special winning opening opening number counter (step S150). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the small hit start pre-processing (step S308) (step S151).

  If the small hit flag is not set (N in step S147), the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S152).

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process. In the jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot end display timer is set (step S160). If the jackpot end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step S164. If the jackpot end display timer is not set, the jackpot flag is reset (step S161), and control for transmitting a jackpot end designation command is performed (step S162). Here, a big hit end 1 designation command is transmitted when it is a normal big hit, a big hit end 2 designation command is sent when it is a probable big hit, and a small hit / abrupt is sudden when it is a sudden probable big hit. Send a probable jackpot end designation command. Then, a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the big hit end display is being performed in the image display device 9 (big hit end display time) is set in the big hit end display timer (step S163), and the processing is ended.

  In step S164, 1 is subtracted from the value of the jackpot end display timer. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end display time has elapsed (step S165). If not, the process ends.

  If the big hit end display time has elapsed (Y in step S165), the CPU 56 checks whether the big hit type is a probability change big hit or a sudden probability change big hit (step S166). Note that whether or not the probability change big hit or sudden probability change big hit is, specifically, whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal processing is “02” to “03”. This can be determined by checking. If neither the probability change big hit nor the sudden probability change big hit is present (that is, if it is a normal big hit), the CPU 56 sets the time reduction flag and shifts the gaming state to the time reduction state (step S167). Further, the CPU 56 sets a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) in a time reduction number counter for counting the number of time reductions (step S168). Then, control goes to a step S173.

  If the probability change big hit or the sudden probability change big hit, the CPU 56 sets the probability change flag and shifts the gaming state to the probability change state (step S170). Further, the CPU 56 sets a time reduction flag (step S171). Then, control goes to a step S173.

  In this embodiment, a case is shown in which the control is unconditionally controlled to both the probability variation state and the short-time state in the case of sudden probability variation big hit, but in the case of sudden probability variation big hit, only the probability variation state is controlled. You may make it control not to a short time state (high base state) (namely, high probability / low base state). Also, for example, in the case of a sudden probability change big hit, it is checked whether the gaming state is a short time state (high base state), and if the current gaming state is a short time state (high base state), the probability change Control to state and continue short time state (ie, control to high probability / high base state), if current gaming state is not short time state (if low base state), change to high probability / low base state You may make it control.

  Further, on the side of the production control microcomputer 100, for example, the production of the common mode is executed after the sudden probability change big hit has occurred and after the small hit has occurred (for example, the subsequent variation display has the same background color ( For example, it may be executed in yellow) (that is, a so-called latent effect is executed), and it may be controlled so that it is impossible to recognize whether or not the state is controlled to be in a certain change state.

  In this embodiment, the time reduction flag set in steps S167 and S171 is also used to determine whether or not to increase the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15 or increase the number of times of opening. In this case, specifically, in the normal symbol process (see step S27), the CPU 56 confirms whether or not the time reduction flag is set when the normal symbol variation display result is hit. If so, control is performed to open the variable winning ball device 15 by extending the opening time or increasing the number of times of opening. The time reduction flag set in steps S167 and S171 is used to determine whether or not to shorten the special symbol variation time.

  Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S173).

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol display control process (step S32) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. In the special symbol display control process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag is 3 (step S3201). If the value of the special symbol process flag is 3 (that is, if the special symbol changing process is being executed), the CPU 56 sets the special symbol display control data for special symbol variation display for setting the special symbol display control data. Processing for setting or updating the output buffer is performed (step S3202). In this case, the CPU 56 sets or updates special symbol display control data for performing variable display of the special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) indicated by the special symbol pointer. For example, if the fluctuation speed is 1 frame / 0.2 seconds, the value of the special symbol display control data set in the output buffer is incremented by 1 every time 0.2 seconds elapse. After that, display control processing (see step S22) is executed, and a drive signal is output to the special symbol displays 8a and 8b in accordance with the contents of the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data. The special symbol display on the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b is executed.

  If the value of the special symbol process flag is not 3, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 (step S3203). If the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 (that is, when the special symbol stop processing is entered), the CPU 56 stops the special symbol stop symbol set in the special symbol normal processing. Processing for setting the display control data in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data is performed (step S3204). In this case, the CPU 56 sets special symbol display control data for stopping and displaying the stop symbol of the special symbol (the first special symbol or the second special symbol) indicated by the special symbol pointer. After that, display control processing (see step S22) is executed, and a drive signal is output to the special symbol displays 8a and 8b in accordance with the contents of the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data. The special symbol stop symbols are stopped and displayed on the special symbol indicators 8a and 8b. In addition, since the setting data is not changed after the process of step S3204 is executed and the special symbol display control data for the stop symbol display is set, the latest special symbol display control data is displayed in the display control process of step S22. Based on this, the latest stop symbol is stopped and displayed until the next variable display is started. If the value of the special symbol process flag is 2 or 3 in step S3201 (that is, if either the display result designation command transmission process or the special symbol variation process), the special symbol variation display is performed. The special symbol display control data may be updated. In this case, the display result designation command transmission process also varies in order to prevent a deviation between the variation time recognized on the game control microcomputer 560 side and the variation time recognized on the effect control microcomputer 100 side. What is necessary is just to comprise so that 1 may subtract a time timer.

  In this embodiment, the special symbol display control data is set in the output buffer according to the value of the special symbol process flag. However, in the special symbol process, the start flag is set at the start of the variation of the special symbol. In addition, an end flag may be set at the end of the variation of the special symbol. In the special symbol display control process (step S32), the CPU 56 starts updating the value of the special symbol display control data based on the start flag being set, and based on the end flag being set. Thus, special symbol display control data for stopping and displaying the stop symbol may be set.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) as effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 4 ms) is performed (step S701). . Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring a timer interrupt flag (step S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the following effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and performs a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the effect display device 9 is executed.

  Next, the production control CPU 101 performs the fourth symbol process (step S706). In the 4th symbol process, the process corresponding to the current control state (4th symbol process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and the 4th symbol display areas 9c and 9d of the effect display device 9 are selected. The display control of the 4th symbol is executed.

  Next, a random number update process for updating a count value of a counter for generating a random number such as a jackpot symbol determining random number is executed (step S707). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command reception buffer for storing the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 of the main board 31. In this example, a command reception buffer of a ring buffer type capable of storing six 2-byte configuration effect control commands is used. Therefore, the command reception buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of reception command buffers 1 to 12. A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. The ring buffer format is not necessarily required.

  The effect control command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by an interrupt process based on the effect control INT signal, and is stored in a buffer area formed in the RAM. In the command analysis process, it is analyzed which command (see FIGS. 10 and 11) the effect control command stored in the buffer area is.

  25 to 28 are flowcharts showing specific examples of the command analysis process (step S704). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms the content of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

  In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S611). Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. When the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer (step S612). When read, the value of the read pointer is incremented by +2 (step S613). The reason for +2 is that 2 bytes (1 command) are read at a time.

  If the received effect control command is a variation pattern command (step S614), the effect control CPU 101 stores the received variation pattern command in a variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM (step S615). Then, a variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S616).

  If the received effect control command is a display result designation command (step S617), the effect control CPU 101 forms the received display result designation command (display result 1 designation command to display result 5 designation command) in the RAM. Is stored in the display result designation command storage area (step S618).

  If the received effect control command is a symbol confirmation designation command (step S619), the effect control CPU 101 sets a confirmed command reception flag (step S620).

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot start 1 designation command or a jackpot start 2 designation command (step S621), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot start 1 designation command reception flag or a jackpot start 2 designation command reception flag ( Step S622). If the received effect control command is a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command (step S623), the effect control CPU 101 sets a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit start designation command reception flag (step S624).

  If the received effect control command is the first symbol variation designation command (step S625), the first symbol variation designation command reception flag is set (step S626). If the received effect control command is the second symbol variation designation command (step S627), the second symbol variation designation command reception flag is set (step S628).

  If the received effect control command is a power-on specification command (initialization specification command) (step S631), the effect control CPU 101 displays an initial screen on the effect display device 9 indicating that the initialization process has been executed. Control is performed (step S632). The initial screen includes an initial display of predetermined production symbols.

  If the received effect control command is a power failure recovery designation command (step S633), a predetermined power failure recovery screen (screen for displaying information notifying the player that the gaming state is continuing) is displayed. Display control is performed (step S634).

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot end 1 designation command (step S641), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot end 1 designation command reception flag (step S642). If the received effect control command is a jackpot end 2 designation command (step S643), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot end 2 designation command reception flag (step S644). If the received effect control command is a small hit / sudden probability sudden change big hit end designation command (step S645), the effect control CPU 101 sets a small hit / sudden probability change big hit end designation command reception flag (step S646).

  If the received effect control command is the first reserved memory number addition designation command (step S651), the effect control CPU 101 adds 1 to the value of the first reserved memory number stored in the first reserved memory number storage area ( Step S652). Further, the production control CPU 101 updates the display of the first reserved memory number in the first reserved memory display unit 18c in accordance with the updated first reserved memory number (step S653).

  If the received effect control command is the second reserved memory number addition designation command (step S654), the effect control CPU 101 adds 1 to the value of the second reserved memory number stored in the second reserved memory number storage area ( Step S655). Further, the production control CPU 101 updates the display of the second reserved memory number in the second reserved memory display unit 18d in accordance with the updated second reserved memory number (step S656).

  If the received effect control command is the first reserved memory number subtraction designation command (step S657), the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the first reserved memory number stored in the first reserved memory number storage area ( Step S658). Further, the production control CPU 101 updates the display of the first reserved memory number in the first reserved memory display unit 18c in accordance with the updated first reserved memory number (step S659).

  If the received effect control command is the second reserved memory number subtraction designation command (step S660), the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the second reserved memory number stored in the second reserved memory number storage area ( Step S661). Further, the production control CPU 101 updates the display of the second reserved memory number on the second reserved memory display unit 18d according to the updated second reserved memory number (step S662).

  If the received effect control command is a customer waiting demonstration designation command (step S663), the effect control CPU 101 sets a customer waiting demonstration designation command reception flag (step S663A). Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to display a predetermined customer waiting demonstration screen on the effect display device 9 (step S664). In addition, the customer waiting demonstration screen is not displayed immediately based on the reception of the customer waiting demonstration designation command, but after the customer waiting demonstration designation command is received, the customer waits for a predetermined period (for example, 10 seconds). The display of the waiting demonstration screen may be started. Further, the production control CPU 101 clears the first reserved memory number stored in the first reserved memory number storage area and the second reserved memory number stored in the second reserved memory number storage area (step S665). That is, when the customer waiting demonstration designation command is received and the customer waiting demonstration screen is displayed, both the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number are 0, and the variable display is not executed. Reset the number of pending storage to be stored. Even if the processing of step S665 is executed and the production control microcomputer 100 is in a state in which the addition or subtraction omission of the reserved memory number occurs and the erroneous reserved memory number is recognized, the reserved memory is stored. Can be reset to return to the normal state.

  If the received effect control command is a normal state background designation command (step S666), the effect control CPU 101 uses the background screen displayed on the effect display device 9 as a background screen corresponding to the normal state (for example, a blue display color). Background screen) (step S667). Further, if set, the effect control CPU 101 resets a probability change state flag indicating that the game state is a probability change state and a time reduction state flag indicating that the game state is a time reduction state (step S668).

  If the received effect control command is a time reduction state background designation command (step S669), the effect control CPU 101 displays the background screen displayed on the effect display device 9 as a background screen corresponding to the time reduction state (for example, a green display). Color background screen) (step S670). Further, the effect control CPU 101 sets a time reduction state flag (step S671).

  If the received effect control command is a probability change state background designation command (step S673), the effect control CPU 101 displays the background screen displayed on the effect display device 9 as a background screen corresponding to the probability change state (for example, a red display). Color background screen) (step S674). Further, the effect control CPU 101 sets a probability variation state flag (step S675).

  If the received effect control command is another command, effect control CPU 101 sets a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (step S676). Then, control goes to a step S611.

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 performs one of steps S800 to S807 according to the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed. In the effect control process, the display state of the effect display device 9 is controlled and variable display of the effect symbol is realized. However, control related to variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the change of the first special symbol is also the second. Control related to the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the change of the special symbol is also executed in one effect control process. It should be noted that the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the variation of the first special symbol and the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the variation of the second special symbol may be executed by separate effect control process processing. Good. Further, in this case, it may be determined which special symbol variation display is being executed depending on which representation control process processing is performing the variation display of the representation symbol.

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

  Effect symbol variation start processing (step S801): Control is performed so that the variation of the effect symbol is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (step S802).

  Production symbol variation processing (step S802): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern and monitors the end of the variation time. When the variation time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803).

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

  Big hit display process (step S804): When the big hit is made, after the end of the variation time, the effect display device 9 is controlled to display a screen for notifying the occurrence of the big hit. In the case of a small hit, control is performed to display a screen for notifying the effect display device 9 of the occurrence of the small hit after the end of the variation time. For example, when a fanfare command designating the start of a big hit is received, a fanfare effect is executed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the in-round processing (step S805).

  In-round processing (step S805): Display control during round is performed. For example, if a display command indicating that the special winning opening is open is received, the display control of the number of rounds is performed.

  Post-round processing (step S806): Display control between rounds is performed. For example, when a display command after opening the big prize opening indicating that the big prize opening is after being opened (closed), an interval display is performed.

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

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S811). If the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variation pattern command reception flag is reset (step S812). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S813). As described above, in this embodiment, the display result designation command is transmitted even when the power failure is restored (see step S44). However, as shown in FIG. Based on the fact that the variation pattern command has been received, the transition to the production symbol variation start processing is started and the variation display of the production symbol is started. Therefore, if the display result designation command is received without receiving the variation pattern command, the variation of the representation symbol The display will not start.

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 first reads a variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (step S8001).

  Next, the CPU 101 for effect control displays the display result (stop) of the effect symbol according to the variation pattern command read in step S8001 and the data stored in the display result specifying command storage area (that is, the received display result specifying command). (Design) is determined (step S8002). That is, when the CPU 101 for effect control executes the process of step S8002, the display result of the variable display of the identification information (stop of the effect symbol) according to the variable display pattern (variation pattern) determined by the variable display pattern determination means. A display result determining means for determining (design) is realized.

  FIG. 32 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a stop symbol of the effect symbol in the effect display device 9. In the example shown in FIG. 32, when the received display result designation command indicates a normal jackpot (when the received display result designation command is a display result 2 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 uses the stop design as a stop symbol. A combination of effect symbols in which the three symbols are even-numbered symbols (a stop symbol that usually reminds of the occurrence of a big hit) is determined. When the received display result designation command indicates a probable big hit (when the received display result designation command is a display result 3 designation command), the production control CPU 101 uses odd symbols (probability variation) as 3 symbols as stop symbols. The combination of effect symbols arranged in a stop symbol reminiscent of the occurrence of a big hit) is determined.

  When the received display result designation command suddenly shows a probable big hit or small hit (when the received display result designation command is a display result 4 designation command or a display result 5 designation command), the CPU 101 for effect control Determines the combination of effect symbols “135” as stop symbols. If a variation pattern command for designating a variation pattern with reach is received in the case of a sudden probability big hit, the stop symbol “135” is determined and the reach symbol is also determined.

  Further, in the case of a loss (when the received display result designation command is a display result 1 designation command), a combination of effect symbols other than the above is determined. However, when a reach effect is involved, a combination of effect symbols (reach symbols) in which two left and right symbols are aligned is determined.

  If a variation pattern with pseudo-continuations is specified in the variation pattern command, the CPU 101 for effect control displays a special display result (chance target symbol) that is temporarily stopped during the variation display of the effect symbol in step S8002. ) Is also determined. For example, the effect control CPU 101 determines a combination of symbols such as “112” and “223” as the special display result (chance target symbol).

  The combination of the three symbols derived and displayed on the effect display device 9 is the “stop symbol” of the effect symbol. The effect control CPU 101 determines that the winning symbol is a stop symbol by specifying that it is a big hit, disappointment, suddenly probable big hit or small hit based on the variation pattern command, not the display result designation command. It may be. For example, when the variation control command for big hit is received, the effect control CPU 101 determines a big hit symbol with the same symbols on the left and right sides, and suddenly receives a variation pattern command for a probable big hit / small hit. Determines a stop symbol such as “135”, and when a variation pattern command for deviation is received, a symbol other than these may be determined.

  In step S8002, for example, the effect control CPU 101 extracts a random number for determining a stop symbol, and uses the stop symbol determination table in which data indicating the combination of effect symbols and numerical values are associated with each other. Determine the stop pattern. That is, the stop symbol is determined by selecting data indicating the combination of effect symbols corresponding to the numerical value matching the extracted random number. Then, the effect control CPU 101 stores the data indicating the determined effect stop symbol in the effect symbol display result storage area.

  As for the effect symbols, a stop symbol that recalls a big hit is called a big hit symbol. In addition, a stop symbol reminiscent of a probable big hit is called a probable big hit symbol, and a stop symbol reminiscent of a normal big hit is called a normal big hit symbol. And a stop symbol that reminds of a loss is called a loss symbol.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 selects common specific effect setting data for setting the common specific effect according to the variation pattern (step S8003). Then, the effect control CPU 101 executes a common specific effect setting process for setting the common specific effect using the selected common specific effect setting data (step S8004).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 executes a notice effect setting process for setting a notice effect to be executed during the variation display of the effect symbol (step S8005). The “notice effect” is an effect for notifying the possibility that the variation display result of the effect symbol is a big hit. In this embodiment, the push button 120 or the like during the change display of the effect symbol is used as the notice effect. It is assumed that a button notice effect for displaying a character dialogue or the like can be executed based on an operation by an operation means such as the stick controller 122. In this embodiment, when it is decided to execute the button notice effect, the operation means such as the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 is at a timing of 8 to 9 seconds after the start of the effect symbol change display. The image imitating the button is displayed, and the button notice effect is started.

  Note that the notice effect is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, a plurality of effects are performed in stages from the first stage effect to the multiple stage effects according to a predetermined order. In the case of a big hit during the variable display, the step-up notice effect that is performed up to the final stage effect at a higher rate than in the case of a loss may be executed. In addition, for example, as a notice effect, a mini character notice effect, a group notice effect, or a movable object notice effect may be performed, and various kinds of notice effects can be executed.

  Next, the production control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the variation pattern (step S8006). When it is determined to execute the notice effect, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the notice effect. Then, the production control CPU 101 starts a process timer in the process data 1 of the process table selected in step S8006 (step S8007).

  FIG. 33 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the process table. The process table is a table in which process data referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls effect devices (effect components) such as the effect display device 9 according to the process data set in the process table. The process table includes data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data are collected. The display control execution data includes, for example, data indicating each variation mode constituting the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the effect symbol (display of the effect display device 9 in addition to the display mode of the effect symbol) (Including other aspects of the screen) Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. Further, the production time in the production mode is set in the process timer set value. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table, displays the effect design in the form set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value, and displays the character image or background displayed on the display screen. Control to display. In addition, the flashing of the light emitter is controlled in a manner set in the lamp control execution data and the sound number data, and the sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled.

  The process table shown in FIG. 33 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. The process table is prepared according to the contents of each variation pattern and notice effect. If it is decided to execute the notice effect, a process table in which data corresponding to the notice effect is set is selected. If it is not decided to execute the notice effect, a notice is given. A process table for which data corresponding to the production is not set is selected.

  Also, in the process table used when effect control is executed for a variation pattern with reach effect, the left symbol is stopped when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the variation, and the right symbol is stopped when a predetermined time further elapses. Process data indicating that it is to be displayed is set. In addition, instead of setting the symbols to be stopped and displayed in the process table, an image for displaying the symbols is synthesized and generated according to the determined stop symbol, the temporary stop symbol in the pseudo-ream and the sliding effect. May be.

  Further, the production control CPU 101 produces the production device (production display device 9 as production component for variably displaying production symbols according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1). Then, the control of various lamps as a production component and the speaker 27) as a production component is started (step S8008). For example, in accordance with the display control execution data, an instruction is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image (including an effect symbol) corresponding to the variation pattern on the effect display device 9. In addition, a control signal (lamp control execution data) is output to the lamp driver board 35 in order to perform on / off control of various lamps. In addition, a control signal (sound number data) is output to the sound output board 70 in order to output sound from the speaker 27.

  In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 performs control so that the effect symbol is variably displayed by the change pattern corresponding to the change pattern command on a one-to-one basis. The variation pattern to be used may be selected from a plurality of types of variation patterns corresponding to.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 sets a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command in the variation time timer (step S8009). Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (step S802) (step S8010).

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing the common specific effect setting process in step S8004. In this embodiment, the “common specific effect” is an effect that is executed in a common manner during the execution of the variation display of the effect symbol regardless of the type of the variation pattern. In this embodiment, as the common specific effect, an effect of turning on the effect LED 99 or outputting a predetermined special sound from the speaker 27 is executed during the execution of the effect symbol variation display. In this way, the common specific effect is in which effect timing during the display change of the effect symbol (for example, during high-speed change, when the left symbol is stopped, when a reach occurs, when a super reach is developed, etc.) Regardless, it is an effect that can be executed in common without being affected by the effect content of the effect display device 9 (that is, regardless of the type of variation pattern).

  The common specific effects are not limited to those shown in this embodiment, and may be executed in common regardless of the type of variation pattern. The movable member provided in the game area 7 can be moved. Various modes are conceivable, such as oscillating operating means such as the stick controller 122, or illuminating an object such as a movable member provided in the game area 7 using an LED or the like.

  In the common specific effect setting process, the effect control CPU 101 first determines whether or not to execute the common specific effect in the current processing target time frame in the common specific effect setting data selected in step S8003. It is confirmed whether or not the determination value is assigned (step S1501). In step S1501, the CPU 101 for effect control is assigned a determination value as the time frame to be processed in order from the first time frame (the time frame of 0 seconds in FIG. 35 described later) in the common specific effect setting data. It will be confirmed whether or not.

  FIG. 35 is an explanatory diagram of a specific example of common specific effect setting data. As shown in FIG. 35, the common specific effect setting data includes time frames of 0 seconds, 1 second,..., 40 seconds for each unit time according to the elapsed time after the start of the change of the effect design. A decision value is assigned for each time frame. However, judgment values are not necessarily assigned to all time frames. For example, in FIG. 35, judgment values are assigned to time frames indicated by “◯”, and a common specific effect is executed. In other words, no determination value is assigned to the time frame indicated by “x”, indicating that there is no possibility that a common specific effect will be executed. In addition, as shown in FIG. 35, the common specific effect setting data is such that the variation pattern is out of non-reach, normal reach out, super reach A out, super reach B out, normal reach big hit, super reach A big hit, super reach B big hit, Nine types are provided depending on whether it is sudden big hit or sudden probability change big hit / small hit.

  For example, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 35, in the common specific effect setting data corresponding to the non-reach deviation variation pattern (non-reach PA1-1 to non-reach PA1-4), the variation start of the effect symbol is started. There is a possibility that the determination value is assigned only to the time frame of 0 second and 1 second later, and the common specific effect is executed. In addition, in the data for common specific effect setting according to the fluctuation pattern of normal reach deviation (normal PA2-1 to normal PA2-2, normal PB2-1 to normal PB2-2), 0 seconds and 1 second after the start of the change of the effect symbol In addition to the time frame, determination values are assigned to the time frames of 5 seconds and 10.0 seconds, and there is a possibility that a common specific effect is executed. In addition, in the common specific effect setting data corresponding to the variation pattern of the super reach A deviation (super PA3-1, super PA3-3, super PB3-1), the time frames of 0 seconds and 1 second after the start of the variation of the effect symbol In addition, determination values are also assigned to the time frames of 6 seconds and 10.5 seconds, and there is a possibility that a common specific effect is executed. In addition, in the data for common specific effect setting according to the variation pattern of super reach B deviation (super PA3-2, super PA3-4, super PB3-2), the time frame of 0 seconds and 1 second after the start of the variation of the effect symbol In addition to the above, determination values are also assigned to time frames of 7 seconds and 11.0 seconds, and there is a possibility that a common specific effect is executed.

  In addition, in the data for common specific effect setting according to the fluctuation pattern (normal PA2-3 to normal PA2-4, normal PB2-3 to normal PB2-4) for the normal reach big hit, 0 seconds and 1 second after the start of the fluctuation of the effect symbol In addition to the time frame, determination values are also assigned to time frames of 5 seconds, 10.0 seconds, and 15.0 seconds, and there is a possibility that a common specific effect is executed. Moreover, in the data for common specific effect setting according to the variation pattern (super PA3-5, super PA3-7, super PA3-9, super PB3-3) of Super reach A big hit, In addition to the 1 second time frame, determination values are assigned to the 6 second, 10.5 second, and 15.5 second time frames, and there is a possibility that a common specific effect is executed. Moreover, in the data for common specific effect setting according to the variation pattern (Super PA 3-6, Super PA 3-8, Super PA 3-10, Super PB 3-4) of Super reach B big hit, In addition to the time frame of 1 second, determination values are assigned to time frames of 7 seconds, 11.0 seconds, and 16.0 seconds, and there is a possibility that a common specific effect is executed. In addition, in the common specific effect setting data corresponding to the sudden big hit variation pattern (non-reach PC1-1), there is no possibility of executing the common specific effect because no determination value is allocated to any time frame.

  Furthermore, the data for common specific effect setting corresponding to the sudden change probability big hit / small hit change patterns (special PG1-1 to special PG1-3, special PG2-1 to special PG2-2), and any time frame There is no possibility of a common specific performance being performed because there is no determination value allocation.

  As shown in FIG. 35, in this embodiment, in the case of big hit (excluding sudden big hit and sudden probability variation big hit), judgment values are assigned to many time frames as compared to the case of loss, Many common specific effects are likely to be executed during one-time variation display of effect symbols. Specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 35, in the case of big hit (excluding sudden big hit and suddenly probable big hit), determination values are assigned to five time frames, so that the change of the effect design for one time There is a possibility that the common specific effect may be executed up to 5 times during the display. On the other hand, in the case of losing, since the determination value is assigned to the time frame of 2 times or 4 times, 1 There is a possibility that the common specific effect is executed only twice or four times at the maximum during the display of the variation of the effect pattern of times. Therefore, in this embodiment, the expectation level (reliability) for the big hit can be increased if a large number of common specific effects are executed during the variation display of one effect symbol, so the common specific effects are simply executed. It is possible to give the player a sense of expectation not only for whether or not, but also for the number of executions of the common specific effect.

  In addition, “expected degree (reliability) for big hit” means that a specific display such as a variable display by a specific variable display pattern (for example, a variable display with super reach), a specific notice effect, or a pseudo-ream is executed. In this case, the appearance rate (probability) that a big hit appears is shown. For example, the expected degree of jackpot when the common specific effect is executed is determined as (the ratio of executing the common specific effect when the jackpot is determined) / (when the jackpot is determined and lost) The ratio of the common specific performance is executed in both cases).

  In this embodiment, a case is shown in which a plurality of common specific effects can be executed during the variation display of one effect symbol, but only once during the variation display of one effect symbol. You may comprise so that a common specific production can be performed. For example, when it is decided to execute the common specific effect using the determination value set for the time frame of 0 seconds, the common specific effect is forcibly set even if the determination value is set for the subsequent time frame. By deciding not to execute, it may be possible to execute the common specific effect only once during the variation display of the effect symbol once.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 35, in this embodiment, for example, a time frame is provided every second from 0 second to 10.0 seconds after the start of fluctuation, and the determination value can be set. On the other hand, a time frame is provided every 0.5 seconds from 10.0 seconds to 16.0 seconds, and the determination value can be set. Therefore, it is possible to determine the execution timing of the common specific effect at an appropriate timing for a section or the like where the execution timing of the common specific effect is desired to be set finely.

  For example, in the case of a period when high-speed fluctuation has been performed since the start of the change display of the production symbol, the execution timing of the common specific production is appropriately set even if the production content does not change much and the time frame is about 1 second. Can be determined. On the other hand, for example, in the case of the period when the first stop symbol (for example, the left symbol) is stopped and displayed and the period until reach or the time when it develops to super reach, the production content changes. Is often expected, and it is often desirable to set the execution timing of the common specific effects in more detail. For such a period, for example, if the time frame is set more finely, such as by providing time frames at intervals of 0.5 seconds, the execution timing of the common specific effect can be determined at a more appropriate timing.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 35, in this embodiment, the common specific effect setting data is not assigned determination values for all time frames, but is assigned a time frame in which no determination value is assigned ( There is also a time frame indicated by “x” in FIG. Then, when it is desired to add the execution timing of the common specific effect at the stage of development or design of the gaming machine, a new determination value is assigned to a time frame in which the determination value in the common specific effect setting data is not allocated. What should I do? Therefore, when changing or adding effects included in the variation pattern, it is only necessary to set a new judgment value in a time frame to which no judgment value is assigned, and this involves program changes and new additions. The execution timing of the common specific effect can be determined at an appropriate timing.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 35, in this embodiment, for example, in the time frames of 15.0 seconds, 15.5 seconds, and 16.0 seconds, big hits (excluding sudden big hits and sudden probability variation big hits) are obtained. Only in some cases, a determination value is allocated, and there is a possibility that a common specific effect is executed. In other words, in this embodiment, when the common specific effect is executed at the timing of 15.0 seconds to 16.0 seconds after the start of the variation of the effect symbol, the player wins the big hit (excluding the sudden big hit and the sudden probability change big hit) ) Can be recognized. Therefore, regardless of the variation pattern, it can be understood that a big hit is caused by the execution timing of the common specific effect, and the interest in the game can be improved.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 35, in this embodiment, no determination value is assigned to the time frame of 8 seconds and 9 seconds when the button notice effect is started, and the common specific effect is not executed. . Therefore, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the common specific effect and the button notice effect are executed redundantly and the effect becomes difficult to recognize. Note that it is not always necessary to configure so that the common specific effect is not executed in the entire effect period of the button notice effect, for example, the timing at which an image imitating operation means such as the push button 120 or the stick controller 122 is displayed. In particular, the common specific effect may be configured not to be executed only during a period when the player wants to pay attention to the button notice effect.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 35, in this embodiment, in the case of suddenly probable big hits or small hits, no determination value is assigned to any time frame in the common specific effect setting data. There is no case where a specific performance is executed. That is, if the common specific effect is not executed at all during the display of the effect symbols, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation that the game may suddenly become a probable big hit. Therefore, the type of jackpot can be predicted, and the interest in games can be improved.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 35, in this embodiment, even when a big hit is suddenly a big hit, no determination value is assigned to any time frame in the common specific effect setting data, and the common specific There is no case where the production is executed. That is, if the common specific effect is not executed at all during the change display of the effect symbol, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation that it may suddenly be a big hit. Therefore, it can be predicted that a big hit will be suddenly made without performing a reach effect or the like during execution of the effect symbol variation display, and the interest in the game can be improved.

  When the determination value is assigned to the time frame to be processed in step S1501, the effect control CPU 101 uses the set determination value to determine whether or not to execute the common specific effect. The lottery process using the random number is performed, and it is determined whether or not to execute the common specific effect at the timing corresponding to the time frame to be processed (step S1502). When it is determined to execute the common specific effect (Y in step S1503), the effect control CPU 101 provides the RAM with the timing corresponding to the current time frame to be processed as the execution timing of the common specific effect. The common specific performance execution timing storage area is stored (step S1504).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the processing has been completed for all time frames in the common specific effect setting data (step S1505). If the processing has been completed for all time frames (that is, if the processing up to the last 40-second time frame in FIG. 35 has been completed), the processing ends. On the other hand, if an unprocessed time frame remains, the effect control CPU 101 returns to step S1501 and repeatedly executes the processes of steps S1501 to S1504 for the next time frame in the common specific effect setting data.

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation in-process (step S802) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S8101) and subtracts 1 from the value of the change time timer (step S8102). When the process timer times out (step S8103), the process data is switched. That is, the process timer setting value set next in the process table is set in the process timer (step S8104). Further, the control state for the effect device (effect parts) is changed based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data set next (step S8105).

  Next, the production control CPU 101 determines whether or not the elapsed time since the start of the production symbol variation display is the common specific production execution timing stored in the common specific production execution timing storage area (see step S1504). (Step S8106). Whether or not it is the execution timing of the common specific effect can be specifically determined by checking the value of the variable time timer. If it is the execution timing of the common specific effect, the effect control CPU 101 outputs lamp control execution data for lighting the effect LED 99 to the lamp driver board 35 and outputs a predetermined special sound from the speaker 27. Is output to the audio output board 70 (step S8107). By executing the process in step S8107, the effect LED 99 is turned on and a predetermined special sound is output from the speaker 27 at the execution timing determined in the common specific effect setting process in step S8004. Executed.

  Then, if the change time timer has timed out (step S8108), the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the effect symbol change stop process (step S803) (step S8109).

  FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation stop process, first, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a stop symbol display flag indicating that a stop symbol of the effect symbol is being displayed is set (step S871). If the stop symbol display flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to step S877. In this embodiment, as will be described later, when a big hit symbol is displayed as a stop symbol of the effect symbol, a stop symbol display flag is set in step S876. When the fanfare effect is executed, the stop symbol display flag is reset in step S878. Therefore, the fact that the stop symbol display flag is set in step S871 is a stage where the fanfare effect has not yet been executed although the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed, so the stop symbol of the effect symbols in steps S872 to S873 is displayed. The process proceeds to step S877 without repeatedly executing the process.

  If the stop symbol display flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to stop and display the stored stop symbol (disconnected symbol, big hit symbol, or small hit symbol) (step S872). The production control CPU 101 may perform control to stop and display the production symbol in response to the reception of the symbol confirmation designation command from the game control microcomputer 560.

  If neither the big winning symbol nor the small winning symbol is displayed in step S872 (that is, when the off symbol is displayed: N in step S873), the presentation control CPU 101 resets a predetermined flag (step S874). ). For example, the effect control CPU 101 resets command reception flags such as a first symbol variation designation command reception flag and a second symbol variation designation command reception flag. The effect control CPU 101 may reset the command reception flag immediately after being referred to in the effect control process or the fourth symbol process (for example, as shown in step S811 in FIG. 30, the variation pattern). The fluctuation pattern command reception flag may be reset immediately after confirming the command reception flag).

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S875).

  When the big hit symbol or the small hit symbol is displayed in step S872 (Y in step S873), the effect control CPU 101 sets a stop symbol display flag (step S876) and confirms whether the fanfare flag is set. (Step S877). When the fanfare flag is set (Y in step S877), the effect control CPU 101 resets the stop symbol display flag (step S878).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 selects process data corresponding to the fanfare effect (step S879), and starts a process timer (step S880). Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) (step S881). However, if it is a small hit, it is not a big hit, so the effect during the big hit from the big hit display process (step S804) to the big hit end effect process (step S807) is not executed, but set in step S879. It is preferable that an effect corresponding to the small hit game is executed over a predetermined effect period in accordance with the process data, and the process returns to the variation pattern command reception waiting process in step S800.

  FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing the jackpot display process (step S804) in the effect control process. In the jackpot display process, the effect control CPU 101 first determines whether or not the big prize opening open flag indicating that the big prize opening open display command has been received (that is, the big prize opening at the start of round 1). Whether or not a display command during opening has been received is confirmed (step S901). When the special winning opening open flag is not set (N in step S901), the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S902).

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 controls the effect devices (the effect display device 9, the speaker 27, the frame LED 28, etc.) in accordance with the contents of the process data n (step S903). For example, the effect display device 9 displays a jackpot symbol and performs an effect of displaying characters or characters indicating that a jackpot has occurred.

  Next, the production control CPU 101 checks whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S904), and if the process timer has timed out, switches the process data (step S905). That is, the process data (display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data) set next in the process table is switched. Then, the process timer setting value in the next process data is set in the process timer and the process timer is started (step S906).

  When the special winning opening open flag is set (Y in step S901), the production control CPU 101 resets the special winning opening open flag (step S907), and the contents of the special winning opening open display command are displayed. Based on this, process data corresponding to the effect during the round is selected (step S908). Then, the process timer is started (step S909), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the mid-round process (step S805) (step S910).

  FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end effect process (step S807) in the effect control process. In the jackpot end effect process, the effect control CPU 101 first subtracts 1 from the value of the effect period measurement timer for measuring the effect period of the ending effect executed at the end of the jackpot game (step S971). The production period measurement timer is set based on the fact that all rounds of the big hit game have been completed, for example, during production during round (see step S805) or post-round processing (see step S806). Next, the production control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the production period measurement timer has timed out (step S972).

  When the production period measurement timer has not timed out (N in step S972), the production control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S973), and the production device (production display device 9) according to the contents of the process data n. , Speaker 27 etc.) is executed (step S974). For example, an effect of displaying that the big hit ends or displaying a predetermined character is executed.

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S975), and if the process timer has timed out, switches the process data (step S976). Then, the process timer set value in the next process data is set in the process timer and the process timer is started (step S977).

  When the effect period measurement timer times out (Y in step S972), the effect control CPU 101 resets a predetermined flag (step S979). For example, the effect control CPU 101 resets command reception flags such as a first symbol variation designation command reception flag and a second symbol variation designation command reception flag. Then, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S979).

  As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to execute a common specific effect that is executed in a common manner during the execution of the variation display of the effect symbols regardless of the type of variation pattern. Then, it is determined whether or not to execute the common specific effect at every elapsed time (in this example, at intervals of 1 second or 0.5 seconds) from a predetermined opportunity (in this example, at the start of variation) in the variation display of the effect symbol. The execution timing of the common specific effect is determined by a common process (in this example, the common specific effect setting process in step S8004, which is a common processing routine), based on the common specific effect setting data to which the determination value is assigned. decide. Therefore, when changing or adding an effect included in the variation pattern, the effect can be executed at the appropriate time during the execution of the variation display of the effect symbol without changing the program or adding a new one. .

  In this embodiment, in the common specific effect setting data, a case is shown in which a determination value is assigned for each elapsed time from the start of fluctuation as a predetermined opportunity, but at a timing that can be distinguished as a predetermined opportunity. If there is, it is not limited to the one shown in this embodiment, and for example, a determination value may be assigned for each elapsed time when the first symbol (left symbol) is stopped or the reach occurs. In addition, for example, a determination value may be assigned for each elapsed time with a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds) from the start of fluctuation as a predetermined trigger.

  In this embodiment, the common specific effect setting process in step S8004 is executed as a common process, and the common specific effects to be executed during the variable display of the effect symbols at the start of the variable display are collectively determined. However, the present invention is not limited to such a mode. For example, if it is determined by a common process (for example, a common process routine), it is set in the common specific effect setting data while the effect symbol is being displayed. Each time the timing corresponding to the time frame arrives, whether or not to execute the common specific effect may be individually determined and executed.

  Moreover, according to this embodiment, the common specific effect can be executed a different number of times during the variation display of one effect symbol, depending on whether or not it is determined that it is a big hit. Specifically, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 35, in the case of a big hit (excluding a sudden big hit and a sudden probability variation big hit), there is a possibility that a maximum of five common specific effects may be executed. On the other hand, if it is out of place, there is a possibility that the common specific effect is executed only twice or four times at most, and many common specific effects are executed during the variation display of the effect pattern once. If so, the degree of expectation for jackpots will increase. Therefore, it is possible to give the player a sense of expectation not only with respect to whether or not the common specific effect is executed, but also with respect to the number of executions of the common specific effect.

  In addition, in this embodiment, the case where the expectation degree (reliability) for the big hit becomes higher as the number of common specific effects executed during the variation display of one effect symbol increases is shown. If the expectation level (reliability) for the big hit differs according to the number of performances, the present invention is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, conversely, the degree of expectation (reliability) for the big hit may be increased as the number of common specific effects executed during the variation display of one effect symbol is reduced.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the execution timing of the common specific effect is determined using the common specific effect setting data assigned with the determination values at different time intervals according to the time elapsed from the predetermined trigger. Specifically, in the present embodiment, a time frame is provided every second from 0 seconds to 10.0 seconds after the start of fluctuation, whereas a determination value can be set. From 0 seconds to 16.0 seconds, a time frame is provided every 0.5 seconds so that the determination value can be set. Therefore, it is possible to determine the execution timing of the common specific effect at an appropriate timing for a section or the like where the execution timing of the common specific effect is desired to be set finely.

  In this embodiment, the case where the common specific effect setting data is configured so that the determination value can be set by providing a time frame every 1.0 seconds or every 0.5 seconds is shown. For example, conversely, the determination value can be set at a coarser time interval than every 1.0 second (for example, every 2.0 seconds or every 3.0 seconds). Good. In this case, for example, for a period in which there is not much change in the effect as in the case where the effect symbol is changing at high speed and there is not much meaning to execute the common specific effect, the determination value is set at a rough time interval. For example, in the common specific effect setting data shown in FIG. 35, a time frame is assumed in the period of 2 seconds to 4 seconds immediately after the start of the fluctuation as a period in which there is not much change in the effect. You may comprise so that it may not provide from the beginning.

  Moreover, according to this embodiment, using the common specific effect setting data including the time frame to which the determination value is not allocated (in this example, the time frame that is “x” in FIG. 35), The execution timing of the common specific effect is determined. Therefore, when changing or adding effects included in the variation pattern, it is sufficient to assign a new judgment value to a time frame to which no judgment value is assigned, and this involves program changes and new additions. The execution timing of the common specific effect can be determined at an appropriate timing.

  FIG. 40 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a case where an effect is changed or added when the common specific effect setting data as shown in this embodiment is not used. When the common specific effect setting data is not used, the timing at which the common specific effect is desired to be executed in advance (in the example shown in FIG. 40A, at the start of fluctuation, when reach is reached, when super reach is developed, and one final turn) A program must be created to execute a determination process and a setting process for determining whether or not to execute a common specific effect every time. In this case, as shown in FIG. 40 (B), when it is desired to newly add a timing for executing the common specific effect (when the first symbol (left symbol) is stopped in the example shown in FIG. 40 (B)). In addition, for newly added timing, determination processing and setting processing for deciding whether or not to execute common specific effects must be added to the program, which requires program changes and additions, and the work load is large .

  On the other hand, FIG. 41 is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the case where an effect is changed or added when using the data for common specific effect setting as shown in this Embodiment. As shown in FIG. 41 (A), in this embodiment, data for setting common specific effects in which a time frame is provided in advance for each unit time is prepared regardless of necessity / unnecessity of common specific effects. Then, the decision value is assigned only to the time frame of the timing at which it is desired to execute the common specific effect (“○” time frame), and the decision value is not assigned to the other time frames (“×” time frame). It is structured as follows. In this case, when it is desired to newly add a timing for executing the common specific effect, as shown in FIG. 41B, a time frame corresponding to the timing at which the common specific effect can be newly executed (FIG. 41 ( In the example shown in B), it is only necessary to newly assign a determination value in a time frame of 3 seconds), and it is not necessary to change or add a program. To give another more specific example, when it is desired to change the common specific effect to be executable when the first symbol (left symbol) is newly stopped, the stop timing of the first symbol (left symbol) is 10 In the case of the vicinity of the second, it is only necessary to add a change for newly assigning the determination value to the time frame around 10 seconds in the common specific effect setting data. From the above, in this embodiment, it is possible to determine the execution timing of the common specific effect at an appropriate timing without changing the program or adding a new one. In addition, since it is not necessary to change the program or add a new program, it is possible to share the program in the game period of different models, and the work load of development and design of the gaming machine can be reduced.

  Further, according to this embodiment, a time frame (in this example, 15.0 shown in FIG. 35) in which a determination value is assigned only when a big hit (in this example, excluding suddenly probable big hits or sudden big hits) is obtained. The execution timing of the common specific effect is determined using the data for setting the common specific effect including time frames of seconds, 15.5 seconds, and 16.0 seconds. Therefore, regardless of the variation pattern, it can be understood that a big hit is caused by the execution timing of the common specific effect, and the interest in the game can be improved.

  Further, according to this embodiment, a special effect (in this example, a button notice effect) different from the common specific effect can be executed. Then, using the common specific setting data to which no judgment value is assigned in the time frame (in this example, the time frame of 8 seconds and 9 seconds shown in FIG. 35) where the special effect may be executed, The execution timing of the common specific effect is determined. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the common specific effect and the special effect are executed in an overlapping manner and the effect becomes difficult to recognize.

  In this embodiment, the case where the button notice effect is executed as the special effect is shown, but the effect that can be executed as the special effect is not limited to the button notice effect shown in this embodiment. For example, the step-up notice effect may be configured to be executable as the special effect, and the common specification setting data may be set so that the common specific effect and the step-up notice effect are not executed redundantly. In this case, it is not always necessary to configure so that the common specific effect is not executed in the entire period of the step-up notice effect. For example, the timing at which the effect of the first step in the step-up notice effect appears, What is necessary is just to comprise so that a common specific production | presentation may not be performed only in the period which wants a player to pay attention to the step-up notice production | presentation especially the timing which develops to the production | presentation of the step of this stage.

  Further, according to this embodiment, when it is determined to be suddenly probable big hit among big hit types, using the common specific production setting data to which no judgment value is allocated, Determine execution timing. Therefore, the jackpot type can be predicted and the interest in the game can be improved.

  In addition, according to this embodiment, a variation pattern (sudden variation pattern of non-reach PC 1-1 for sudden jackpot) that becomes a big hit without performing an effect (in this example, a reach effect) during execution of variation display of the effect symbol ) Is determined, the execution timing of the common specific effect is determined using the common specific effect setting data to which no determination value is assigned. Therefore, it is possible to predict that a big hit will be suddenly made without performing an effect during the execution of the effect symbol variation display, and it is possible to improve the interest in the game.

  In this embodiment, a sudden big hit fluctuation pattern (fluctuation pattern of non-reach PC 1-1) is provided as a fluctuation pattern for a probable big hit that is 15R big hit or a normal big hit without changing the reach effect. There is a case where an effect that suddenly results in a big hit is executed (that is, whether or not a sudden big hit is determined is determined by the process of determining the variation pattern). Absent. For example, a big hit may be suddenly provided as the big hit type, and it may be configured to determine whether or not the big hit type is suddenly determined by the process of determining the big hit type.

  In the above embodiment, the production control board 80, the audio output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as the boards on which the circuit for controlling the production apparatus is mounted. You may mount on one board | substrate. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) on which a circuit for controlling the effect display device 9 and the like is mounted and a circuit for controlling other effect devices (lamps, LEDs, speakers 27, etc.) are mounted. You may make it provide two board | substrates with two production | presentation control boards.

  In the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 directly transmits a command to the effect control microcomputer 100. However, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits another command (for example, FIG. 3). The sound output board 70 and the lamp driver board 35 shown in FIG. 5 or the sound / lamp board having the function of the circuit mounted on the sound output board 70 and the function of the circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35). A control command may be transmitted and transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 on the effect control board 80 via another board. In that case, the command may simply pass through another board, or the sound output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound / lamp board are equipped with control means such as a microcomputer, and the control means receives the command. In response to this, control related to sound control and lamp control is executed, and the received command is changed as it is or, for example, to a simplified command to control the effect display device 9. You may make it transmit to. Even in such a case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control in accordance with the effect control command received directly from the game control microcomputer 560 in each of the above-described embodiments. Display control can be performed in accordance with commands received from the driver board 35 or the sound / lamp board.

  In addition, the configuration for performing the common specific effects shown in the above embodiment is not limited to pachinko gaming machines and can be applied to various forms of gaming machines. For example, you may make it apply the structure which performs the common specific production shown in said embodiment to a slot machine.

  In general, a slot machine is provided with a variable display device having a plurality of (usually three) reels on which a plurality of types of symbols as identification information are drawn on the outer periphery, and first, a bet number is determined by a player's BET operation. The rotation of the reels is started by performing a start operation in a state where a predetermined number of bets is set, and the rotation is stopped by operating a stop button provided corresponding to each reel. When all the reels stop rotating, a winning combination is generated when a predetermined combination of winning symbols (for example, 7-7-7) is arranged on the winning line. That is, the game is advanced by the player's operation. In addition, some of these slot machines have a liquid crystal display on the front door, so that the possibility of winning a prize will be announced or the stop button operation order will be suggested. There is something configured. In such a slot machine, for example, the liquid crystal display is configured to be able to execute a change display of a design symbol and various notice effects in accordance with the rotation of the reel, and the LED is turned on according to the rotation of the reel. You may comprise so that a common specific effect may be performed by outputting a special sound.

  Further, for example, the configuration for performing the common specific effect shown in the above-described embodiment may be applied to a sealed circulation pachinko machine. In the enclosed circulation type pachinko machine, a predetermined number (for example, 50) of game balls used in the pachinko machine are enclosed in an enclosed area (for example, in a pachinko machine), and the game area provided in the pachinko machine In order to fire game balls through the game area, collect the game balls via the collection unit (for example, each winning opening, out port, foul ball return opening), and fire the collected game balls again into the game area In the enclosed area. In addition, in such a sealed circulation pachinko machine, when there is a prize at each prize opening, points corresponding to the number of prize balls are added to the card inserted in the card unit instead of the prize balls. Processing is performed. In such an enclosed circulation type pachinko machine, the configuration of the embodiment shown above is applied, and when the production display variation display is performed on the production display device of the enclosed circulation type pachinko machine, the LED is turned on. You may comprise so that a common specific effect may be performed by outputting a predetermined special sound.

  The present invention can be applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, and is particularly preferably applied to a gaming machine that performs variable display of a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8a 1st special symbol display device 8b 2nd special symbol display device 9 Production display device 13 1st starting winning port 14 2nd starting winning port 20 Special variable winning ball device 31 Game control board (main board)
56 CPU
560 Microcomputer for game control 80 Production control board 99 Production LED
100 effect control microcomputer 101 effect control CPU
109 VDP

Claims (1)

A gaming machine that performs variable display of a plurality of types of identification information that can each be identified,
Variable display pattern determining means for determining one variable display pattern from a plurality of types of variable display patterns;
Based on the variable display pattern determined by the variable display pattern determining means, variable display executing means for executing variable display of identification information;
Effect execution means for executing a predetermined effect during execution of variable display of identification information,
The effect executing means can execute a common specific effect that is executed in a common manner during execution of variable display of identification information, as the predetermined effect, regardless of the type of variable display pattern.
Regardless of the type of variable display pattern, common specific effect setting data in which determination information for determining whether or not to execute the common specific effect for each elapsed time from a predetermined trigger in variable display of identification information is set. Based on the above, the game machine further comprises execution timing determining means for determining the execution timing of the common specific effect by a common process.

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