JP2013192571A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To increase excitement and enjoyment of a game by linking the continuation periods of a plurality of kinds of predetermined states to mode performances.SOLUTION: A game control microcomputer shifts to a time-shortening state over a first period or a second period longer than the first period when shifting to the time-shortening state, and a performance control microcomputer executes a common performance in a normal game state and a probability variable state after the game state is shifted to a time-shortening state. The performance control microcomputer notifies to which of a plurality of types of performances a change is made in completion of the first period, and notifies to which of the plurality of types of performances a change is made in completion of the second period when the time-shortening state is being continued, and limits notification that a change is made to a performance having a smaller degree of expectation to the probability variable state than a performance of a type notified in completion of the first period.

Description

  The present invention includes a variable display device that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified, and controls a specific game state that is advantageous to the player when a specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display device. It relates to gaming machines such as pachinko machines and slot machines.

  As a gaming machine, a game medium such as a game ball is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game medium wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined game value is given. is there. Also, when a game medium is inserted, a predetermined number of bets are set, multiple types of symbols are rotated by operating the operation lever, and a combination of stop symbols is specified when the symbols are stopped by operating the stop button There are cases where a predetermined game value is given to the combination of symbols. Also, when a predetermined number of bets are set according to the number of game media taken in, a plurality of types of symbols are rotated by operating the operation lever, and the symbols are stopped when the symbols are stopped by operating the stop button. When the combination becomes a combination of specific symbols, there are those that are given a predetermined game value. Further, a variable display device capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, and when the display result of the variable display of the identification information in the variable display device becomes a specific display result, a predetermined game value Are configured to give the player.

  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. Or a game medium payout condition is easily established, the game medium is paid out, and a score necessary for playing the game is given.

  In a pachinko machine, a predetermined specific display result is derived and displayed as a variable display display result of a special symbol (identification information) that is started in the variable display device based on the winning of the game medium at the start winning opening. A specific gaming state occurs. The derived display is to stop and display the symbol. When the specific gaming state occurs, for example, the special winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and a transition is made to the specific 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 in which the variation time of the identification information is shortened (as a result, the execution frequency of the variable display of the identification information is increased). , See Patent Document 1).

  In addition, in order to make it difficult for a player to grasp that the gaming state is in a high probability state (a gaming state with a high probability of being a big hit: also known as a probable variation state), Some perform a common effect (so-called probability variation latency effect) between the normal gaming state (the gaming state that is not the high probability state: also called the low probability state or the normal state) and the probability variation state ( For example, see Patent Document 2). Hereinafter, a state in which a common effect is executed may be referred to as a common mode. In addition, a common effect may be referred to as a mode effect, and each of a plurality of types of common effects may be referred to as an effect mode.

JP 2008-67983 A JP 2010-162296 A

  In the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1, in order to improve the interest of the game, the number of variable display times of identification information (predetermined number, the number of times reduced in the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1) that can continue the predetermined state is It is determined as one of a plurality of types. In addition, when the components of the gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 and the components of the gaming machine described in Patent Document 2 are combined, a predetermined number of variations and modes are selected in a gaming machine that selects a predetermined number of times from a plurality of types. The entertainment of the game is improved by both the production and the production.

  However, as an effect of improving the fun of the game, the effect of the mode effect is merely added to the effect of the predetermined number of variations.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of further enhancing the interest of a game by linking durations of a plurality of types of predetermined states and mode effects.

(1) A gaming machine according to the present invention is a variable display unit (for example, a special symbol display) that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols and effect symbols) that can identify each of them, and displays and displays a display result. And an effect display device 9), and a game machine that controls a specific game state (for example, a big hit game state) advantageous to the player when a specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display unit. Whether the display result derived and displayed on the display is a specific display result, and when it is determined to be the specific display result, the display state of the identification information is variable compared to the normal gaming state and the normal gaming state. Predetermining means for deciding which of the special gaming states that are likely to give a specific display result (for example, in the gaming control microcomputer 560, the processing of steps S61 and S73 is performed). And when the predetermined state transition condition is satisfied, the gaming state is longer than the first period (for example, until ten variable displays end after transitioning to the time-short state) or the first period. Predetermined state control means (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560 in steps S172 and S174) that shifts to a predetermined state over a second period (for example, after the transition to the time-short state until 20 variable displays are completed) And a common effect execution means for executing a common effect (for example, a mode effect) between the normal game state and the special game state after the game state has shifted to a predetermined state. For example, in the production control microcomputer 100, a portion for executing the processing of steps S831 to S833), and a special game card as a common production There are a plurality of types of effects (for example, chance mode effects, medium probability change mode effects, large probability change mode effects: see FIG. 28), and common effect execution means Is a first notification means for notifying which of a plurality of types of effects is controlled when the first period ends (for example, in the effect control microcomputer 100, the process of step S856 (of the variation counter) A portion that executes (based on the setting of the effect mode switching flag in the process of step S505 when the value is 10)), and after the notification by the first notification means, the predetermined state continues. When the second period ends, the second informing means for informing which of the plurality of types of effects is controlled (for example, the effect control microcomputer) The computer 100 includes a process of step S856 (the part that executes the process based on the fact that the effect mode switching flag is set in the process of step S505 when the value of the variation counter is 20)), and the second notification The means limits notification to the effect that the degree of expectation with respect to being controlled in the special gaming state is lower than the effect notified by the first notification means (see FIGS. 10 and 11). And
According to such a configuration, it is possible to give the player a higher expectation for being controlled to the special game state by linking the duration of the predetermined state and the mode effect, and the interest of the game is further improved. To do.

(2) A game machine according to another aspect of the present invention is a variable display unit (for example, a display unit that displays a display result by variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols and effect symbols) that can identify each of them. A gaming machine equipped with a special symbol display and an effect display device 9) for controlling to a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state) advantageous to the player when a specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display unit. Whether the display result derived and displayed on the variable display unit is the specific display result, and the identification information as compared with the normal gaming state and the normal gaming state as the gaming state when it is determined to be the specific display result Pre-determining means for determining which of the special game states in which the variable display is likely to give a specific display result (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, steps S61 and S7). And when the predetermined state transition condition is satisfied, the gaming state is changed to the first period (for example, until ten variable displays are completed after transitioning to the time-shortening state) or the first period. Predetermined state control means (for example, in the production control microcomputer 100, step S893) that shifts to a predetermined state over a longer second period (for example, after the transition to the time-short state until 20 variable displays are completed). , S894 for executing the process) and a common effect for executing a common effect (for example, a mode effect) between the normal game state and the special game state after the game state has shifted to the predetermined state. Execution means (for example, in the production control microcomputer 100, a part for executing the processing of steps S831 to S833), A plurality of types of performances with different degrees of expectation for being controlled in different gaming states (for example, performance in small probability change possibility mode, effect in medium probability change mode, effect in large probability change mode: see FIG. 40 ), And the common effect executing means is a first notifying means (for example, in the effect controlling microcomputer 100, the step of notifying which of the plurality of kinds of effects is controlled when the first period ends). The process of S856 (the part that executes the effect mode switching flag is set in the process of step S505 when the value of the variation counter is 10) and the notification by the first notification means are performed. After that, when the predetermined state continues, when the second period ends, second notification means (for example, performance) that notifies which of the plurality of types of effects is controlled. In the output control microcomputer 100, the process of step S856 (the part that executes the process based on the fact that the effect mode switching flag is set in the process of step S505 when the value of the variation counter is 20)) is included. When in the special gaming state, the combination of the effect executed after the notification by the first notification means and the effect executed after the notification by the second notification means is high. The ratio is selected (see FIG. 39).
According to such a configuration, it is possible to give the player a higher expectation for being controlled to the special game state by linking the duration of the predetermined state and the mode effect, and the interest of the game is further improved. To do.

(3) In the gaming machine of the above (1) or (2), the predetermined state is a state in which the execution frequency of variable display of identification information is increased (for example, a short time state), and the predetermination means specifies the display result. When the display result is determined, a notification means (for example, in the production control microcomputer 100) that notifies that the display result becomes the specific display result before the display result is derived and displayed on the variable display unit. The game state control means displays the pre-determining means when the gaming state is in a predetermined state, after determining that the jackpot notification is made in the process of step S524) If the result is determined to be the specific display result, the game state after the end of the specific game state is shifted to a third period (for example, a shorter time state) than the second period. The notification prohibiting means (for example, production) is forbidden to execute the notification by the notification means in the predetermined state until the second period ends. The control microcomputer 100 may further include a portion for executing the processes of steps S521 and S522.
According to such a configuration, the player can maintain a sense of expectation for a predetermined state that continues for the third period until the specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display unit.

(4) In the above gaming machines of (1) to (3), the common effect execution means is a period between the start of variable display of identification information and the start of a specific game state (for example, effect symbol variation). In the stop process), when it is determined by the predetermining means that the variable display of the identification information is the specific display result, it is controlled to the specific game state after the notification is given by the common effect executing means. Specific notification effect executing means for executing an effect to be notified (for example, a part of the effect control microcomputer 100 that executes the processes of steps S842 to S844 shown in FIG. 35 and the process of step S852 shown in FIG. 36: step S852. This process may be executed after the processes of steps S842 to S844 for realizing a success / failure effect).
According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the interest of the effect of informing whether the game state is controlled to the special game state or the normal game state from being lowered.

(5) In the gaming machines of the above (1) to (4), the common effect execution means is a period between the start of the variable display of the identification information and the start of the specific game state (for example, the effect symbol variation). In the stop process, the common effect execution means has a low expectation for being controlled to the special gaming state when the prior determination means determines that the variable display of the identification information is the specific display result. It may be configured to notify that it is controlled to the type of effect (for example, notify the chance mode in the process of step S856 shown in FIG. 36).
According to such a configuration, the specific display result can be visually recognized after the player feels disappointed, and the interest of the game is further improved.

(6) In the above gaming machines (1) to (5), variable display time selection means (for example, a game control microcomputer 560) that selects a variable display time of identification information based on the determination result of the pre-decision means. , And the common effect executing means is a period from the start of the variable display of the identification information to the time when the display result is derived and displayed (the portion for executing the processes of steps S93, S94, S102, S103, S104). For example, the variable display time selection means has a high percentage of variable display time during which the notification effect can be executed as the variable display time of the identification information when the common effect execution means performs notification. (For example, the game control microcomputer 560 executes the process of step S93).
According to such a configuration, it is possible to secure the execution time of the notification effect.

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 2 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows a jackpot determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the big hit classification determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the change of effect mode. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the change of effect mode. 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 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 the presentation control main process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows a command analysis process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the value of game state data. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of production mode. 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 a flowchart which shows a mode production setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit notification setting process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of process data. 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 which shows the mode production determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the mode effect in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the mode effect setting process in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the big hit end effect process in 2nd Embodiment.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
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.

  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 has an effect symbol display area for performing variable display of effect symbols (decorative symbols) synchronized with 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. The effect symbol display area includes a symbol display area for variably displaying, for example, three decorative (effect) effect symbols of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. 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. .

  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 middle right symbol) continue for a predetermined time and the jackpot symbol (for example, the left middle right symbol is aligned with the same symbol). In combination with the same symbol combination), stopped, swinging, enlarged, reduced, or deformed, or multiple symbols changing in synchronization with the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol being switched An effect performed in a state where the possibility of occurrence of a big hit before the final result is displayed (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) 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. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  On the left side of the lower part of the game board 6, a first special symbol display (first variable display portion) 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. On the lower right side of the game board 6, a second special symbol display (second variable display portion) 8b for variably displaying the second special symbol as identification information is provided. The second special symbol display 8b is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. 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.

  On the side of the first special symbol display 8a, the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13, that is, the first reserved memory number (the reserved memory is also referred to as the start memory or the start prize memory) is displayed. A first special symbol storage memory display 18a composed of four display units is provided. In the first special symbol storage memory display 18a, every time there is an effective start winning, the number of display units to be lit is increased by one. Then, every time the variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is started, the number of display units to be lit is reduced by one.

  On the side of the second special symbol display 8b, a second special symbol hold memory display 18b comprising four display units 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. In the second special symbol storage memory display 18b, the number of display units that are turned on is increased by one every time there is an effective start winning. Then, every time the variable display on the second special symbol display 8b is started, the number of display units to be lit 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. In addition, for example, a hold storage display unit that displays the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number in order of winning to the first start winning port 13 and the second starting winning port 14 may be provided. .

  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 this embodiment, as will be described later, the game control microcomputer 560 that controls the change display of the special symbol transmits a change pattern command that can specify the change time, and the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the change pattern command. The variation display of the effect symbol is controlled according to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command. Therefore, since the variation time is specified based on the variation pattern command, the variation display of the special symbol and the variation display of the effect symbol are executed in synchronization.

  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.

  The game area 6 is also provided with winning ports (ordinary winning ports) 29, 30, 33, 39 for paying out a predetermined number of premium game balls determined in advance based on winning of the game balls. The game balls won in the winning openings 29, 30, 33, 39 are detected by the winning opening switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a.

  A normal symbol display 10 is provided on the right side of the game board 6. The normal symbol display 10 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, “◯” and “x”) called normal symbols.

  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. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting the upper and lower “O” and “X” lamps (the symbols become visible when the lamp is lit). If the “○” lamp lights up, it is a hit. When the stop symbol on the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. That is, the state of the variable winning ball device 15 is a state that is advantageous from a disadvantageous state for the player when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol (a state in which a game ball can win a prize at the second start winning port 14 ( Or change to a state where it is easy to win a prize).

  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.

  On the left and right sides of the game area 7 of the game board 6, there are provided decorative LEDs 25 that are displayed blinking during the game, and at the lower part there is an outlet 26 for taking in a hit ball that has not won. In addition, two speakers 27 that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the left and right upper portions 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.

  The members constituting the hitting ball supply tray 3 are provided with operation buttons 120 as operation means that can be operated by the player. The operation button 120 is provided with a push button switch that can be pressed by the player. Since the operation button 120 is provided, it becomes possible for the player to participate in various effects performed by the gaming machine.

  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. However, in this embodiment, as described later, when both the first reserved memory and the second reserved memory are accumulated, the variable display of the second special symbol is preceded by the variable display of the first special symbol. Is preferentially executed. 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, a case is shown in which the variable display of the second special symbol is preferentially executed, but the first special symbol is displayed in the order of winning in the first start winning port 13 and the second starting winning port 14. You may make it perform a fluctuation display and the fluctuation display of a 2nd special symbol.

  In this embodiment, when the probability variation big hit is reached, the gaming state is shifted to a high probability state (probability variation state: a gaming state in which the probability of making a big hit compared to the normal state) is increased. Further, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the state shifts to a short time state (game state in which the variable symbol display time is shortened: a high base state) in which the symbol variation time is shortened. In the high base state, the frequency at which the variable winning ball device 15 is opened is increased, or the time during which the variable winning ball device 15 is open is extended, compared to the case where the high base state is not set. This makes it easier to start a prize.

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

  Further, an input driver circuit 58 for supplying detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the start port switch 13a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. Yes. 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.

  In addition, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the decoration LED 25 provided on the game board and the frame LED 28 provided on the frame side via the lamp driver board 35. The sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled via the sound output board 70.

  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 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 outputs a signal for driving the LED and the lamp 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, signals for driving LEDs and lamps are input to the LED / lamp driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED / lamp driver 352 supplies a current to a light emitter provided on the frame side such as the frame LED 28 based on a signal for driving the LED and the lamp. Further, an electric current is supplied to the decoration LED 25 provided on the game board side.

  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 a 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 the interrupt mode 2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) built in the CPU 56 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is This mode indicates an interrupt address.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks the state of the output signal (clear signal) of 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 parts that should not be initialized include, for example, data indicating the gaming state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, etc.), the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer), unpaid prize balls This is the part where data indicating the number 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).

  In addition, when the restored gaming state is a high probability state (probability change state) based on the data indicating the gaming state stored in the backup RAM, the CPU 56 outputs a high probability state command indicating that fact. If the recovered gaming state is the normal state (non-probability changed state), a normal state command indicating that is transmitted to the effect control board 80 (step S44). Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

  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 variable time timer value is resumed and the variation display of the special symbol is resumed. 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.

  In this embodiment, the CPU 56 uses both the backup flag and the check data to check whether the data in the backup RAM area is stored, but 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. 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 executing the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S16). When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are finished, the interrupt enabled state is set. Set (step S19). In this embodiment, the display random number is a random number for determining a pattern variation pattern (including the concept of variation time), and the display random number update process is for generating a display random number. This is a process for updating the count value of the counter. 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.

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

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

  With the above control, 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 started 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 jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the reach effect is executed after the variable display state of the effect symbol becomes the reach state. Eventually, the effect symbols are all stopped and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R on the effect display device 9.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Determine the type of jackpot (normal jackpot, probability variation jackpot) (for jackpot type judgment)
(2) Random 3: Determine variation pattern (variation time) (for variation pattern determination)
(3) Random 4: Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on the normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(4) Random 5: Random 4 initial value is determined (for determining random 4 initial value)

  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 (3). Count up (add 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers (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. 7 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 big hit determination table includes a normal big hit determination table used in a normal state (non-probability changing state that is not a probabilistic change state) and a probabilistic big hit determination table used in a probable change state. Each numerical value described in the left column of FIG. 7 is set in the normal jackpot determination table, and each numerical value described in the right column of FIG. 7 is set in the probability variation big hit determination table. The numerical value described in FIG. 7 is a jackpot determination value.

  The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and uses the extracted value as the value of the jackpot determination random number (random R). When it matches the big hit determination value, it is decided to make a big hit (normal big hit or probability variation big hit) for the special symbol. 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.

  FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot type determination table stored in the ROM 54. FIG. 8 (A) shows a big hit when determining the big hit type by using the hold 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). It is a classification determination table (for the first special symbol). FIG. 8B 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 big hit type determination table (for the second special symbol).

  In the big hit type determination table, when it is determined that the variable display result is a big hit symbol, based on the random number (random 1) for determining the big hit type, the big hit type is set to “10R normal big hit (10 times shorter). ", 15R normal big hit (20 times shorter)", "15R normal big hit (100 times shorter)", "10R positive variation big hit (10 times shorter)", "15R accurate variable big hit (20 times shorter)", "15R accurate big hit" It is a table that is referred to in order to determine one of “(30 times shorter)” and “15R probability variation big hit (100 times shorter)”.

  As shown in FIG. 8 (A), when a game ball wins the first starting port 13, "10R normal big hit (10 times shorter)", "15R normal big hit (20 times shorter)", "10R probability change "Big hit (10 times shorter)", "15R probability variation big hit (20 times shorter)", or "15R accurate variation big hit (30 times shorter)", as shown in FIG. 2. When winning at the starting port 14, it is determined to be either “15R normal big hit (100 times shorter)” or “15R probability variable big hit (100 shorter times)”.

  “10R” and “15R” indicate that the big winning opening is opened 10 times (10 rounds) and 15 times (15 rounds) during the big hit game.

  Hereinafter, the 10R normal big hit and the 15R normal big hit are sometimes collectively referred to as a normal big hit, and the 10R positive variation big hit and the 15R positive variable big hit are sometimes collectively referred to as “probable big hit”. Further, the 10R normal big hit and the 10R positive variation big hit may be collectively referred to as “10R big hit”, and the 15R normal big hit and the 15R positive change big hit may be collectively referred to as “15R big hit”.

  Since the second starting port 14 can win a game ball at a higher frequency in the high base state than in the low base state (non-short-time state), substantially in the high base state, FIG. The table shown in B) is used. In other words, in the high base state, a big hit with 100 time reductions occurs.

  In this embodiment, when the jackpot type is determined, the number of time reductions is determined. First, the type of jackpot (ordinary jackpot / probability big hit, number of rounds) is determined, and then the number of time reductions is determined. It may be. Further, it may be determined first whether or not to make a big hit, then whether to make a normal big hit or a probable big hit, and then the number of time reductions may be determined.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a variation pattern used in this embodiment. In FIG. 9, “EXT” indicates the second byte of EXT data in the effect control command having a two-byte structure. “Time” indicates the variation time of the special symbol (variable display period of identification information).

  In this embodiment, each variation pattern of the special symbol depends on the difference in various production modes, such as whether or not to reach, the reach mode in the case of reaching, whether or not to give a notification effect, and the gaming state. Multiple types are available. The reach effect and the notification effect are executed in the effect display device 9 controlled by the effect control microcomputer 100. The notification effect is an effect of notifying the current gaming state, whether or not it will be a big hit.

  “Normal fluctuation” is a fluctuation pattern without a reach mode. “Normal reach A” is a variation pattern with a simple reach mode. “Normal reach B” is a variation pattern with a reach mode different from “normal reach A”. The difference in reach form means that a change in a different form (speed, rotation direction, etc.) is made in a reach change time or a character or the like appears. “Normal reach C” is a variation pattern with a reach form different from “normal reach A” and “normal reach B”.

  “Super reach A” is a variation pattern with a reach form different from “normal reach A”, “normal reach B”, and “normal reach C”. “Super reach B” is a fluctuation pattern with a reach form different from “super reach A”, “normal reach A”, “normal reach B”, and “normal reach C”. For example, in each “normal reach”, the reach mode is realized by only one type of change mode, whereas in each “super reach”, a reach mode including a plurality of change modes with different change speeds and change directions is realized. The Note that “Super Reach A”, “Super Reach B”, “Normal Reach A”, “Normal Reach B”, and “Normal Reach C” may or may not be a big hit.

  “Long-term effect A”, “Long-term effect B” and “Long-term effect C” are used in the 10th or 20th time (30th time) of the special symbol after being controlled to the short-time state. It is a variation pattern of a variation time that is selected at the time of variation and can execute a notification effect, and is a variation pattern for varying a special symbol over a longer period than other variation patterns. When the notification effect is executed, “long-term effect A”, “long-term effect B”, or “long-term effect C” is determined as the variation pattern.

  Note that the variation pattern of the long-term effect (“long-term effect A”, “long-term effect B”, “long-term effect C”) may be accompanied by a reach effect. The long-term effect variation pattern is a special variation pattern that is not used except for the 10th and 20th special symbols.

  The “normal fluctuation in the short-time state” is a fluctuation pattern that is used at the time of the loss in the short-time state, has a fluctuation time shorter than the “normal fluctuation”, and does not involve reach production. “Reach production A in the short-time state” is used in the short-time state, and has a shorter fluctuation time than “normal reach A”, “normal reach B”, “normal reach C”, “super reach A” and “super reach B”. It is a variation pattern and a variation pattern with reach production. “Reach production B in the short-time state” is used in the short-time state and has a shorter fluctuation time than “normal reach A”, “normal reach B”, “normal reach C”, “super reach A” and “super reach B”. It is a variation pattern and a variation pattern with reach production. It should be noted that the variation modes of “reach effect A in the short-time state” and “reach effect B in the time-short state” are different.

  In addition, the fluctuation pattern with reach effect, which is the fluctuation pattern that is selected when the reach state is generated, and the fluctuation pattern that is selected when it is determined to be a big hit are fluctuations with the same fluctuation time as the normal state. It may be a pattern. In that case, the fluctuation time of the variable symbol variable display is not shortened.

  Further, in this embodiment, even when the gaming state is not the time saving state, the variation pattern used in the time saving state is used when the mode effect is being performed.

  10 and 11 are explanatory diagrams illustrating an example of the change in the effect mode. FIG. 10 shows an example of a change in the effect mode when a normal big hit is achieved, and FIG. 11 shows an example of a change in the effect mode when the probability is a big hit.

  The production mode is realized by the production control microcomputer 100.

  As shown in FIG. 10, when the big hit game based on the 10R normal big hit is finished, the production mode becomes the chance mode, and when the variable display (fluctuation) of the 10th special symbol is performed thereafter, the notification production (end notification). Is done.

  When the big hit game based on the 15R normal big hit is finished, the production mode is changed to the chance mode, and when the variable display (fluctuation) of the 10th special symbol is performed thereafter, the notification production (switching notification) is performed, and the production mode is changed. It becomes the mode with probability change possibility. Thereafter, when the 20th special symbol variable display (variation) is performed, a notification effect (end notification) is performed.

  As shown in FIG. 11, when the jackpot game based on the 10R probability variable jackpot is finished, the effect mode is changed to the chance mode, and when the variable display (fluctuation) of the 10th special symbol is performed thereafter, the notification effect (end notification). Is done.

  When the big hit game based on the 15R probability variable big hit (20 times short) is finished, the production mode is changed to the chance mode, and then when the 10th special symbol variable display (fluctuation) is performed, the notification production (switching notification) is performed. In other words, the production mode becomes a mode with a high probability change possibility mode or a mode with a high probability change possibility mode. Thereafter, when the 20th special symbol variable display (variation) is performed, a notification effect (end notification) is performed.

  When the big hit game based on 15R probability variable big hit (30 times shorter) is completed, the production mode is changed to the chance mode, and when the variable display (fluctuation) of the 10th special symbol is performed, the notification production (switching notification) is performed. In other words, the production mode becomes the medium possibility change mode. Thereafter, when the 20th special symbol variable display (variation) is performed, a notification effect (switch notification) is performed, and the effect mode becomes a mode with a high probability change possibility. Then, when the 30th special symbol variable display (variation) is performed, the probability change notification (notification that the gaming state is the probability variation state) is performed.

  In this embodiment, the effects control mode microcomputer 100 performs effects in each of the effect modes of the chance mode, the medium probability change possibility mode, and the large probability change possibility mode. Each effect mode is realized by a background image on the display screen of the effect display device 9. That is, when the types of effect modes are different, the aspect of the background image is different.

  The “switch notification” is an effect such that, for example, an image for notifying the switched effect mode is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9. “End notification” is, for example, an effect such that an image for notifying the end of the mode effect is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9. “Probability change notification” is, for example, an effect in which an image (for example, a character image of “probability change”) representing the probability change state is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, in the probability change possibility mode, the execution frequency is slightly higher when the game state is actually the probability change state than when it is not. In other words, the medium probability change possibility mode is an effect corresponding to the possibility that the probability change state is slightly high (the probability change reliability is slightly high).

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the large probability change mode has a higher execution frequency when the game state is actually the probability change state than when it is not. That is, the large probability change possibility mode is an effect corresponding to the high possibility that the probability change state is controlled (high probability change reliability).

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, when the change notification to the probability change possibility mode is executed when the 10th special symbol variable display (variation) is performed, the 20th special symbol is displayed. When variable display (fluctuation) is performed, switching notification to the large probability change mode is executed (except when “end notification” is executed). That is, when the second period ends (in this embodiment, when the 20th variable display is performed), the effect control microcomputer 100 ends the first period (in this embodiment, When the variable display is performed for the 10th time), the effect is less likely to be controlled in the probable state than the type of effect informed (the effect with a low expectation for being controlled in the probable state). Do not report to do so. However, it is also possible to execute an effect at a very low rate with a low possibility of being controlled to the probability variation state.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, since the chance mode is always executed when shifting to the short-time state, it corresponds to an effect in which it is unknown whether or not the state is in a certain change state. In other words, this corresponds to an effect that has the lowest expectation for being controlled to a certain variation state.

  In this embodiment, when the second period ends, the effect that is more likely to be controlled in a probable state than the type of effect notified when the first period ends (this example Then, a notification of switching to a large probability change possibility mode (an example of notification of which of a plurality of types of effects is controlled) is performed, but a notification of switching to the same level of effects may be performed. Good.

  Although not shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, after the big hit game ends and shifts to the short time state, when the variable display of the first (first) special symbol is performed, the transition is made to the effect mode. You may make it alert | report to the effect.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIG. 12, a command 80XX (H) is an effect control command (variation pattern command) for designating a variation pattern of an effect symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in response to variable display of a special symbol. (Corresponding to the variation pattern XX, respectively). That is, when a unique number is assigned to each of the usable variation patterns shown in FIG. 9, 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 8C08 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit and the type of big hit. The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the display result of the effect symbols in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C08 (H), so the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C08 (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.

  The command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the variable display (fluctuation) of the effect 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 effect 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 data is stored in the backup RAM, and if not, initialization designation is performed. Send a command.

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

  Command A001 (H) is an effect control command for displaying the fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of the big hit game (big hit start designation command: fanfare designation command).

  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, for ending the jackpot game (a jackpot end designation command: an ending designation command).

  Command B001 (H) is an effect control command (low base state designation command) indicating that the gaming state is the low base state. Command B002 (H) is an effect control command (high base state designation command) indicating that the gaming state is the high base state. Command B003 (H) is an effect control command (non-probability change state designation command) indicating that the gaming state is not the probability change state. Command B004 (H) is an effect control command (high probability state designation command) indicating that the gaming state is a high probability state (probability variation 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, for the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number, an effect control command indicating that the reserved memory number has increased or decreased is transmitted, but the reserved memory number itself is designated. An effect control command may be transmitted. 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 is won is transmitted, and the reserved memory number designation command for designating the reserved memory number is designated as the first. A common effect control command is transmitted between the number of the first reserved memory and the number of the second reserved memory.

  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 FIG. 12, the display state of the lamp is changed, or the sound number data is output to the audio output board 70.

  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.

  FIGS. 13 and 14 are flowcharts 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. If a winning has occurred, a first start port switch passage process is executed (steps S311 and S312). If the second start port switch 14a for detecting that the game ball has won the second start winning port 14 is turned on, that is, the start winning to the second start winning port 14 has occurred. Then, the second start port switch passage process is executed (steps S313, S314). Then, any one of steps S300 to S307 is performed. If the first start winning port switch 13a or the second start port switch 14a is not turned on, any one of steps S300 to S307 is performed according to the internal state.

  The processes in steps S300 to S307 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 the variable symbol special display can be started, the game control microcomputer 560 confirms the number of numerical data stored in the reserved storage buffer (total number of reserved storage). The stored number of numerical data stored in the hold storage buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the combined hold storage number counter. If the count value of the total pending storage number counter is not 0, it is determined whether or not the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is a big hit. In case of big hit, set big hit flag. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) 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. Further, control is performed to transmit a variation pattern command corresponding to the determined variation pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100, and a variation time timer for measuring the variation time of the special symbol 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 internal state (special symbol process flag) is stepped. Update to a value corresponding to S304 (4 in this example).

  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. When the big hit flag is not set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300. 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, and the special symbol stop symbol is actually stopped and displayed according to 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. In addition, control is performed to transmit the special winning opening open designation command to the production control microcomputer 100, the execution time of the special winning opening open processing is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set in step S306. To a value corresponding to (6 in this example).

  Large winning opening opening process (step S306): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. In the special prize opening opening process, a process for confirming the establishment of the closing condition of the special prize opening is 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. In addition, control is performed to transmit the designation command after the big hit release to the microcomputer 100 for effect control, and when all rounds are finished, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value corresponding to step S307 (this In the example, update to 7).

  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. Further, a process for setting a flag (for example, a probability variation flag) indicating a gaming state is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the start-port switch passing process in steps S312 and S314. FIG. 15A is a flowchart showing the first start port switch passing process in step S312. FIG. 15B is a flowchart showing the second start port switch passing process in step S314.

  As shown in FIG. 13A, in the first start port switch passing process that is executed when the first start port switch 13a is in the ON state, the CPU 56 first determines that the first reserved memory number has reached the upper limit value. (Specifically, whether or not the value of the first reserved memory number counter for counting the first reserved memory number is 4) is checked (step S1211A). If the first reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value, the processing is terminated as it is.

  If the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increases the value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S1212A), and the value of the total reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number Is increased by 1 (step S1213A). 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. 16) (step S1214A). . And CPU56 performs control which transmits the 1st reserved memory number addition designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for presentation control (step S1220A).

  In the process of step S1214A, a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, and a variation pattern determination random number (random 3) are extracted. Stored in the storage area. Note that the random number for random pattern determination (random 3) is not extracted in the first start port switch passing process (at the time of start winning) and stored in the storage area in advance, but is extracted at the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol. You may do it. 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. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of an area (hold buffer) for storing a random number or the like corresponding to the hold memory. As shown in FIG. 16, 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 that is a hardware random number (a random number for jackpot determination), a random number for a jackpot type determination that is a software random number (random 1), and The random number for random pattern determination (random 3) is stored. The first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55.

  As shown in FIG. 13B, in the second start port switch passing process executed when the second start port switch 13b is in the ON state, the CPU 56 first determines that the second reserved memory number has reached the upper limit value. (Specifically, whether or not the value of the second reserved memory number counter for counting the second reserved memory number is 4) is checked (step S1211B). If the first 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 S1212B), and the value of the aggregated reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number Is increased by 1 (step S1213B). 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. 16) (step S1214B). . Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the second reserved memory number addition designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S1220B).

  In the process of step S1214B, a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, and a variation pattern determination random number (random 3) are extracted. Stored in the storage area. Note that the random number for random pattern determination (random 3) is not extracted in the second start port switch passing process (at the time of start winning) and stored in the storage area in advance, but is extracted at the start of the variation of the second special symbol. You may do it. 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.

  17 and 18 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, the process is terminated.

  If the total reserved memory number is not 0, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the first reserved memory number is 0 (step S52). Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the first 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.

  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 stores the count value of the total pending storage number counter in a predetermined area of the RAM 55 (step S57), and then decreases the value of the total pending storage number by one. That is, 1 is subtracted from the count value of the total pending storage number counter (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.

  Further, 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 S59).

  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 extracts in the process of step S1214A of the first start port switch passage process or the process of step S1214B of the second start port switch passage process and stores it in the first hold memory buffer or the second hold memory buffer in advance. The jackpot determination random number is read and the jackpot determination is performed. The jackpot determination module is a program that compares a jackpot determination value (see FIG. 7) determined in advance with a jackpot determination random number, and executes a process of determining a jackpot if they match. In other words, this is a program for executing the big 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-probable change state (normal state and short-time state). Yes. More specifically, a probability change jackpot determination table (a table in which the numerical values on the right side of FIG. 7 in the ROM 54 are set) in which a large number of jackpot determination values are set in advance, and a probability change jackpot determination table in which the number of jackpot determination values is set. And a normal big hit determination table (a table in which the numerical values on the left side of FIG. 7 in the ROM 54 are set) are set. 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 jackpot determination process is performed using the probability variation jackpot determination table, and the gaming state is normal. When it is in a state or a 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. 7, 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. There is also.

  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 promising big hit, set in the process of ending the big hit game, and when it is decided to be a big hit, it is reset at the timing when the special symbol change display is ended and the stop symbol is stopped and displayed. The

  If the value of the jackpot determination random number (random R) does not match any of the jackpot determination values (N in step S61), the process proceeds to step S75.

  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 for the first special symbol shown in FIG. When the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 selects the big hit type determination table for the second special symbol shown in FIG.

  Next, the CPU 56 uses the selected jackpot type determination table to select a type (“normal jackpot” or “probability change” corresponding to the value corresponding to the random number (random 1) for determining the jackpot type stored in the random number buffer area. Big win ") is determined as the big hit type (step S73). In this case, the CPU 56 determines the jackpot type extracted in step S1214A of the first start port switch passing process or step S1214B of the second start port switch passing process and stored in advance in the first hold memory buffer or the second hold memory buffer. The random number is read and the jackpot type is determined.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets data indicating the determined jackpot type (for example, the same data as the EXT data of the display result specifying command shown in FIG. 12) in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (step S74).

  Next, the CPU 56 determines a special symbol stop symbol (step S75). Specifically, when the big hit flag is not set, “−” as a special symbol is determined as a stop symbol of the special symbol. When the big hit flag is set, for example, when the big hit type is determined to be “probable big hit”, “7” is decided as a special symbol stop symbol, and when “normal big hit” is decided, 3 ”is determined as a special symbol stop symbol.

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

  FIG. 19 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 confirms whether or not the mode effect flag indicating whether or not the mode effect (common effect) is being executed (step S91). If the mode effect flag is set, the CPU 56 checks whether the value of the variation counter (indicating the number of variations after the big hit game) is 10 or 20 (step S92).

  When the value of the variation counter is 10 or 20, the CPU 56 decides to use the long-term effect variation pattern determination table as the variation pattern determination table (step S93). Then, the process proceeds to step S104.

  In the long-term effect variation pattern determination table, data indicating “long-term effect A”, “long-term effect B”, and “long-term effect C” shown in FIG. 9 and determination values are set correspondingly. .

  In this embodiment, when the value of the variation counter is 10 or 20, the variation pattern of “long-term effect A”, “long-term effect A”, “long-term effect B” or “long The variation pattern of “long-term effect C”) is selected, but the variation pattern of “long-term effect” may be selected at a high rate (compared to the rate at which the variation pattern of “long-term effect” is not selected). .

  In the case of such a configuration, for example, data indicating a variation pattern other than the variation pattern of “long-term effect” may be set in the long-term effect change pattern determination table.

  When the value of the variation counter is not 10, 20, or 30, it is determined to use the short-time state variation pattern determination table as the variation pattern determination table (step S94). Then, the process proceeds to step S104.

  The short-time state variation pattern determination table includes a short-time state big hit variation pattern determination table and a short-time state shift variation pattern determination table. In the time reduction state big hit variation pattern determination table, data indicating “reach effect A in the time reduction state” and “reach effect B in the time reduction state” and determination values shown in FIG. 9 are set correspondingly. Yes. In the time-short state shift deviation pattern determination table, data indicating “normal fluctuation in the time-short state” and “reach effect A in the time-short state” and determination values shown in FIG. 9 are set correspondingly. .

  If the hidden effect flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag is set (step S101). When the time reduction flag is set, the CPU 56 decides to use the time variation state variation pattern determination table as the variation pattern determination table (step S102). Then, the process proceeds to step S104.

  When the time reduction flag is not set, the CPU 56 determines to use the non-time reduction state variation pattern determination table as the variation pattern determination table (step S103). Then, the process proceeds to step S104.

  The non-time-short state variation pattern determination table includes a non-time-short state big hit variation pattern determination table and a non-time-short state shift variation pattern determination table. In the non-short-time state big hit fluctuation pattern determination table, data indicating “normal reach A”, “normal reach B”, “normal reach C”, “super reach A” and “super reach B” shown in FIG. Correspondingly set. In the non-short-time state shift deviation pattern determination table, data indicating “normal fluctuation”, “normal reach A”, “normal reach B”, “normal reach C”, “super reach A” and “super reach B” shown in FIG. And the determination value are set correspondingly.

  In step S104, the CPU 56 reads the value of random 3 (random number for variation pattern determination) from the random number buffer area (the first reserved storage buffer or the second reserved storage buffer), and selects it by the processing in steps S93, S94, S102, and S103. The variation pattern is determined as one of a plurality of types by referring to the variation pattern determination table. That is, the variation pattern corresponding to the determination value that matches the value of the variation pattern determination random number is determined as the variation pattern to be used.

  Next, an effect control command (variation pattern command) corresponding to the determined variation pattern is controlled to be transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S105).

  Also, the special symbol change is started (step S106). For example, a start flag corresponding to the special symbol referred to in the special symbol display control process in step S33 is set. Further, a value corresponding to the variation time corresponding to the selected variation pattern is set in the variation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S107). 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 S108).

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the display result designation command transmission process (step S302). In the display result designation command transmission processing, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit any effect control command (refer to FIG. 12) of display result 1 designation to display result 8 designation in accordance with the determined jackpot type and loss. Do. 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 S112. When the big hit flag is set, the type of the big hit is confirmed, and the display result 2-8 designation command according to the big hit type is transmitted (step S111). The jackpot type is specifically confirmed based on the data set in the jackpot type buffer in step S74 of the special symbol normal process.

  When the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 1 designation command (step S112).

  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 S113).

  FIG. 21 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 decrements the variable time timer by 1 (step S125), and when the variable time timer times out (step S126), the value of the special symbol process flag corresponds to the special symbol stop process (step S304). The updated value is updated (step S127). If the variable time timer has not timed out, the process is terminated.

  FIG. 22 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 determines whether or not the value of the variation counter is 0 (step S130A). If the value of the variation counter is not 0, 1 is subtracted from the value of the variation counter (step S130B). When the value of the variation counter becomes 0, the mode effect flag is reset (step S130C). Next, the CPU 56 sets an end flag referred to in the special symbol display control process of step S32 to end the variation of the special symbol, and causes the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b to stop. Is controlled to be derived and displayed (step S131). If data indicating “first” is set in the special symbol pointer, the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a is terminated, and “second” is indicated in the special symbol pointer. When data is set, the variation of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b is terminated. Moreover, control which transmits the symbol determination designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for production control is performed (step S132). If the big hit flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S142 (step S133).

  If the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability change flag indicating the probability change state and the time reduction flag indicating the time reduction state if set (step S134). Control to send a big hit start designation command to the microcomputer 100 is performed (step S135).

  In addition, a value corresponding to the big hit display time (for example, the time when the effect display device 9 notifies that the big hit has occurred) is set in the big hit display time timer (step S136). Further, the number of times of opening (10 times or 15 times) is set in the special winning opening opening number counter (step S137). 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 S138).

  In step S142, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the time reduction flag indicating that the time reduction state is set. If the time reduction flag is set, the value of the time reduction number counter indicating the number of times the special symbol can be changed in the time reduction state is decremented by 1 (step S143).

  In addition, when the value of the time reduction counter after subtraction becomes 0 (step S144), the CPU 56 resets the time reduction flag (step S145). Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a low base state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S146).

  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 S147).

  FIG. 23 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). 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 (the 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 jackpot end display time has elapsed, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot type is a normal jackpot (step S166). If it is not normally a big hit, the process proceeds to step S170. In the case of a normal big hit, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit an uncertain change state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S167). Then, control goes to a step S172.

  In step S170, the CPU 56 sets a probability variation flag. Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a probability change state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S171). In addition, a value (see FIG. 8) corresponding to the type of jackpot is set in the time-count counter (step S172).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the high base state designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S173). Further, the CPU 56 sets a time reduction flag (step S174).

  If it is a big hit (see FIG. 8) other than the big hit of 100 times, the CPU 56 sets a value (see FIG. 8) corresponding to the type of the big hit in the variation counter (step S175), and the mode An effecting flag is set (step S176). Thereafter, 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 S177).

  The variation counter in the game control microcomputer 560 is used by the CPU 56 to determine whether or not to select a long-term variation pattern.

  The hour / short flag is also used to determine whether or not to increase the opening time of the variable winning ball apparatus 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 a win. 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.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 24 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 is performed for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 2 ms) (step S701). .

  Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 executes a random number update process for updating the counter value of a counter for generating a predetermined random number (step S702). Then, the timer interrupt flag is monitored (step S703). If the timer interrupt flag is not set, the process proceeds to 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, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S704), and executes the effect control process of steps S705 to S706.

  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 S705).

  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 a ring buffer type command reception buffer capable of storing six 2-byte effect control commands. (Formed in RAM). 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. In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 analyzes which command (see FIG. 12) is the effect control command stored in the command reception buffer.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S706). 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.

  25 and 26 are flowcharts showing a specific example of the command analysis process (step S705). 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 S621), the effect control CPU 101 stores the variation pattern command in a variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM (step S622). Then, a variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S623).

  If the received effect control command is a display result designation command (step S625), the effect control CPU 101 forms the display result designation command (display result 1 designation command to display result 8 designation command) in the RAM. Store in the display result designation command storage area (step S618A).

  If the received effect control command is a symbol confirmation designation command (step S627), the effect control CPU 101 sets a confirmed command reception flag (step S628).

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot start designation command (step S631), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot start designation command reception flag (step S632).

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot end designation command (step S633), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot end designation command reception flag (step S634).

  If the received effect control command is a gaming state designation command (low base state designation command, high base state designation command, non-probability change state designation command or probability change state designation command: see FIG. 12) (step S670), the effect control CPU 101 Sets a value corresponding to the gaming state specified by the received gaming state designation command in the gaming state data area secured in the RAM (step S671). Hereinafter, the value set in the gaming state data area is referred to as gaming state data.

  If the received effect control command is another command, effect control CPU 101 sets a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (step S672). Then, control goes to a step S611.

  FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the value of the game state data. In the example shown in FIG. 27, the value of the game state data is “01 (H)” in the low probability low base state (non-probability change non-time-short state). When the low probability high base state (non-probability short state), the value of the game state data is “02 (H)”. When the high probability low base state (probability variation non-short state state), the value of the game state data is “03 (H)”. The value of the gaming state data is “04 (H)” in the high probability high base state (short state at the time of probability change).

  FIG. 28 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the effect mode. In the example shown in FIG. 28, when the mode effect is not being performed (in the case of the normal mode), a mountain background image is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9.

  In the chance mode (see FIGS. 10 and 11) in the effect mode, a forest background image is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9. In the probability change mode, a city background image is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9. In the high probability change possibility mode, a sea background image is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9.

  Referring to the change example of the effect mode shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11, the effect mode is the chance mode until the change of the 10 special symbols and the effect symbol is completed after the time reduction state is reached. Then, after the predetermined notification is made, the effect mode may become the medium mode of possibility of change until the variation of the special symbol and the effect symbol of 10 times (counting 20 times from the first time) is completed. In addition, after the predetermined notification is performed, the effect mode may become a large probability change mode until the variation of the special symbol and the effect symbol 10 times (30 times counted from the first time) is completed.

  In the probability change notification effect (see FIG. 11), a beach background image is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9.

  When the mode effect is finished, the mode is changed to the normal mode.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 28, when it is decided to win a big hit, a big hit notification effect by a notification sound from the speaker 27 may be executed during the change of the special symbol and the effect symbol.

  In this embodiment, the difference in the effect mode is realized by the difference in the background image. That is, the mode effect is executed using the background image of the display screen of the effect display device 9, but the mode effect is It may be realized by other modes (for example, an effect by blinking a lamp or LED, or an effect by sound), or may be realized by a combination of a background image and another mode.

  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 S806 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.

  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).

  Production symbol variation start processing (step S801): Control is performed so that the variation of the production 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 process (step S803): When the variation time has elapsed, 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): After the end of the variation time, control is performed to display a screen for notifying the effect display device 9 of the occurrence of the big hit. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (step S805).

  Big hit game processing (step S805): Control during big hit game is performed. For example, when a special winning opening opening designation command or a special winning opening open designation command is received, display control of the number of rounds in the effect display device 9 is performed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot end effect process (step S806).

  Big hit end effect processing (step S806): In the effect display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (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 setting process during the latent mode (step S801) (step S813).

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (step S802) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 reads the received variation pattern command from the RAM variation pattern command storage area (step S821). Further, the received display result designation command is read from the display result designation command storage area of the RAM (step S822).

  Next, the CPU 101 for effect control determines the display result (stop symbol) of the effect symbol according to the data stored in the display result designation command storage area (that is, the received display specific designation command) (step S823). . The effect control CPU 101 stores data indicating the determined stop symbol of the effect symbol in the effect symbol display result storage area.

  When the received display result designation command indicates a big hit (when the received display result designation command is a display result 2 to 8 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 produces an effect in which 3 symbols are arranged as stop symbols. Determine the combination of symbols. 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 in which two left and right symbols are aligned is determined. Then, the determined effect symbol is stored in the effect symbol display result storage area of the RAM.

  The combination of the three symbols derived and displayed on the effect display device 9 is the “stop symbol” of the effect symbol. Also, with regard to the production symbol, a stop symbol that recalls a big hit is called a big hit symbol. And a stop symbol that reminds of a loss is called a loss symbol.

  The effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for determining the stop symbol, and uses the stop symbol determination table in which the data indicating the combination of effect symbols and numerical values are associated with each other to generate the stop symbol of the effect symbol. decide. 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.

  Next, in the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 executes a mode effect setting process for changing the effect mode (mode effect) of the effect mode (step S824).

  FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the mode effect setting process in the effect control process. In the mode effect setting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the mode effect flag indicating that the mode effect is being performed is set (step S501). If the mode effect flag is not set, the process ends.

  When the mode effect flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 has the change pattern indicated by the change pattern command read from the change pattern command storage area as the change pattern of “long-term effect” (see FIG. 9). Whether or not (step S502). If it is not the “long-term effect” variation pattern, the process ends. Note that the variation pattern of “long-term effect” is transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 when the value of the variation counter in the effect control microcomputer 100 is 10, 20, or 30.

  In the case of the “long-term effect” variation pattern, the effect control CPU 101 selects an effect mode according to the type of jackpot (specifically, the number of time reductions) and the value of the variation counter (step S503). .

  In this embodiment, the change of the production mode is determined as shown in FIGS. Then, in the ROM in the production control microcomputer 100, the production mode and the notification content (switching notification, end notification or probability change notification) corresponding to the type of jackpot (type of jackpot) and the number of fluctuations (10, 20, 30), and Is set as a mode effect determination table.

  In the process of step S503, the CPU 101 for effect control specifies the mode effect to be executed using the mode effect determination table.

  When it is necessary to select one of a plurality of types as the mode effect after the change, the effect control CPU 101 extracts a random number for determining the type of the mode effect, and displays data and numerical values indicating the mode effect. The mode effect after the change is determined using the mode effect type determination table associated with the. That is, the mode effect type is determined by selecting data indicating the mode effect corresponding to the numerical value that matches the extracted random number.

  As a case where it is necessary to select one of a plurality of types as the mode effect after the change, for example, when 10 fluctuations are executed after the big hit game based on the 15R probability change big hit (20 times shorter) shown in FIG. In addition, there is a case where the mode changes to the medium mode with a high probability change possibility and the mode changes to the mode with a high probability change possibility.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 stores the effect mode after switching (change) (specifically, data indicating the effect mode) and the notification content (switch notification, end notification or probability change notification) in the RAM (step). S504). Then, the effect mode switching flag is set (step S505). When the effect mode after switching is the normal mode (that is, the mode effect ends), the effect control CPU 101 stores the normal mode in the RAM.

  In addition, the effect control CPU 101 executes a jackpot notification process (step S825). FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing the jackpot notification process.

  In the big hit notification process, the CPU 101 for effect control confirms whether or not it is in the high base state (step S521). Whether or not it is in the high base state is confirmed by the value of the game state data (see FIG. 27). If it is in the high base state, the process is terminated.

  If it is not in the high base state, it is checked whether or not it is determined to be a big hit on the condition that the value of the variation counter exceeds 20 (step S522) (step S523). Whether or not it is decided to win is confirmed by, for example, the received display result specifying command.

  When it is determined to be a big hit, it is determined whether or not to give a big hit notification effect (see FIG. 28), for example, by lottery using random numbers (step S524).

  The jackpot notification effect is an effect of notifying the player that a big hit will be made during variable display (variation) in which the display result is a big hit symbol. In this embodiment, in the high base state, when it is decided to make a big hit, a relatively large number of time reductions are set (see FIG. 8). Under such circumstances, by controlling not to execute the jackpot notification effect in the high base state, compared to the case where the jackpot notification effect is executed during variable display (for example, when variable display is started). The time when the player can recognize the occurrence of the jackpot is delayed, and the player can be maintained the expectation of being in a short time state. Further, by controlling so as not to execute the jackpot announcement effect, it is possible to prevent the player's interest regarding whether or not the jackpot is generated from being reduced in the time-saving state where the number of time-savings is 100 times.

  In this embodiment, since there is a big hit of 30 time reductions (see FIG. 8A), it may be a condition that the value of the variation counter exceeds 30 in the process of step S522. .

  Next, when the variation pattern and the mode effect are being executed, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the mode effect type (ie, the effect mode) (step S831). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S832).

  When the mode effect is being executed, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the type of effect mode stored in the process of step S504 shown in FIG. 32 in the process of step S831. If it is decided to execute the jackpot notification effect, a process table corresponding to the jackpot notification effect is selected.

  FIG. 34 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. In the display control execution data, data indicating each variation aspect constituting the variation aspect during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the effect symbols is described. Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. The process timer set value is set with a change time in the form of the change. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table and performs control to display the effect design in the variation mode set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value.

  The process table shown in FIG. 34 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. The process table is prepared according to each variation pattern.

  The production control CPU 101 performs the production device (the production display device 9 as the production component, various lamps as the production component) according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1). And the control of the speaker 27) as a production component is executed (step S833). For example, a command is output to the VDP 109 in order to display an image according 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 production control CPU 101 executes production control according to the data set in the selected process table, thereby producing productions in which the production symbols are changing (including mode production and jackpot announcement production). Realized.

  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.

  Then, a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command is set in the variation time timer (step S834), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the effect symbol change process (step S802). (Step S836).

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol changing process (step S802) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation processing, the effect control CPU 101 decrements the values of the process timer and the variation time timer by 1 (steps S840A and S840B).

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S841). If the process timer has timed out, the process data is switched (step S842). That is, the process timer is started again by setting the process timer set value set next in the process table in the process timer (step S843). Further, in accordance with the contents (display control execution data, lamp control execution data, sound number data) set next, the production device (production display device 9 as production component, various lamps and production components as production component) Control of the speaker 27) is executed (step S844).

  In addition, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the variable time timer has timed out (step S851). When the variation time timer has timed out, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol change stop process (step S803) (step S853). Even if the variable time timer has not timed out, if the confirmation command reception flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been received is set (step S852), the effect control CPU 101 executes the process of step S853.

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation stop process, the effect control CPU 101 resets the confirmed command reception flag if the confirmed command reception flag is set (step S851). Further, in accordance with the data stored in the effect symbol display result storage area (data indicating the stop symbol), the effect display device 9 performs control for deriving and displaying the stop symbol (step S852).

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the mode effect flag is set (step S853). If the mode rendering flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S861. When the mode effect flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 increments the value of the variation counter by +1 (step S854).

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the effect mode switching flag is set (step S855). When the effect mode switching flag is set, the notification content (switch notification, end notification, or probability change notification) stored in the RAM in the process of step S504 (see FIG. 32) is notified (step S856). That is, for example, a character image or the like indicating the effect mode after switching (or the end of the mode effect or the probability change notification) is displayed on the effect display device 9.

  When it is determined that the display result is a big hit symbol, the CPU 101 for effect control notifies, for example, that the chance mode has the lowest reliability with respect to the probability variation state in the process of step S856. .

  By performing such control, the big hit symbol can be visually recognized after the player has a feeling of disappointment, and the interest of the game is improved.

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 switches the effect mode (step S857). That is, the background image displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9 is changed to an image corresponding to the effect mode after switching. However, when the effect mode ends (when end notification or probability change notification is performed), the background image is changed to an image corresponding to the normal mode. Further, the effect mode switching flag is reset (step S858).

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 resets the mode effect flag when the effect mode is ended (when end notification or probability change notification is performed) (step S859).

  In this embodiment, the effect mode is switched as soon as the switching notification is made, but the actual effect mode may be switched later (for example, after the end of the big hit game or at the start of the next fluctuation). .

  Next, the production control CPU 101 confirms whether or not it is decided to make a big hit (step S861). Whether or not it is decided to win is confirmed by, for example, a display result designation command stored in the display result designation command storage area. In this embodiment, it can also be confirmed whether or not it is decided to make a big hit based on the decided stop symbol. If it is not decided to win, the process moves to step S866.

  If it is determined to win, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the effect (fanfare effect) that notifies the start of the big win (step S862).

  Then, the production control CPU 101 starts a process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table (step S863). Further, according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1), an effect device (the effect display device 9 as an effect component, various lamps as an effect component, and an effect component) Control of the speaker 27) is executed (step S864).

  Thereafter, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) (step S865).

  In step S866, 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).

  FIG. 37 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 confirms whether or not the big winning opening open designation command reception flag indicating that the special winning opening open designation command has been received is set (step S871). If the special prize opening opening designation command reception flag is set, the process proceeds to step S876.

  If the special prize opening opening designation command reception flag is not set, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S872), and checks whether the process timer has timed out (step S872). S873). If the process timer has not timed out, the process is terminated.

  When the process timer has timed out, the effect control CPU 101 switches the process data. That is, the process timer is started again by setting the process timer setting value set next in the process table in the process timer (step S874). Further, in accordance with the contents (display control execution data, lamp control execution data, sound number data) set next, the production device (production display device 9 as production component, various lamps and production components as production component) Control of the speaker 27) is executed (step S875).

  In step S876, the effect control CPU 101 resets the special winning opening open designation command reception flag, and updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the big hit game processing (step S805) (step S877).

  FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end effect process (step S806) in the effect control process. In the jackpot end effect process, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the jackpot end effect timer is set (step S880). If the big hit end effect timer is set, the process proceeds to step S885. If the jackpot end effect timer is not set, it is checked whether or not the jackpot end designation command reception flag indicating that the jackpot end designation command has been received is set (step S881). When the jackpot end designation command reception flag is set, the jackpot end designation command reception flag is reset (step S882), and a value corresponding to the jackpot end display time is set in the jackpot end presentation timer (step S883). Then, the effect display device 9 is controlled to display a jackpot end screen (screen for notifying the end of the jackpot game) (step S884). Specifically, an instruction to display the big hit end screen is given to the VDP 109.

  In step S885, 1 is subtracted from the value of the big hit end effect timer. Then, the effect control CPU 101 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end effect timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end effect time has elapsed (step S886). If not, the process ends.

  When the jackpot end effect time has elapsed, the effect control CPU 101 selects an effect mode according to the type of the jackpot (specifically, the number of times reduced) under the condition that it is not in the high base state (step S887). (Step S891: See FIG. 10 and FIG. 11), data indicating the selected effect mode is stored in the RAM (Step S892). Then, a mode effect flag indicating that the mode effect is being executed is set (step S893).

  As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, in this embodiment, when the mode effect is shifted, the effect mode is the chance mode regardless of the type of jackpot, but the effect mode is other than the chance mode. You may make it happen.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the high base state is set, no determination regarding the mode effect is made (see step S887).

  However, even in the high base state, the effect control CPU 101 may make a determination regarding the mode effect. In that case, it is preferable that the production control CPU 101 determines to shift to the production mode different from the production modes of the chance mode, the medium probability change possibility mode, and the high probability change possibility mode. In the case of such a configuration, it is possible to increase the variation of effects linked with the mode effect.

  Thereafter, the production control CPU 101 sets “1”, which is an initial value, in the variation counter (step S894). 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 S895).

  As described above, in this embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 causes the second period to end (in this embodiment, when the 20th variable display is performed: hereinafter, the second timing) Also, when the first period ends (in this embodiment, when the tenth variable display is performed: hereinafter, also referred to as the first timing), it is more likely than the type of effect notified. The notification that the degree of possibility of being controlled is changed to an effect having a low level is not performed (see FIGS. 10 and 11). As a result, the continuation period of the predetermined state (in this embodiment, the number of time reductions) and the mode effect can be linked to give the player a higher expectation for being controlled to the probable change state. Interest is improved.

  In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 determines the effect mode at the time-short state transition in the jackpot end effect process (see FIG. 38), and the effect mode after the effect mode switching is performed as the effect symbol variation start process. Although determined in (refer to FIG. 31 and FIG. 32), in the jackpot end effect process, all effect modes executed during the mode effect period may be determined collectively.

  In addition, when determining the effect mode after the effect mode switching in the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 determines the effect mode before the change and the jackpot type that triggered the transition to the mode effect. Accordingly, the effect mode after switching may be determined.

  In this embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 switches the effect mode in response to reception of the variation pattern of the long-term effect (see FIG. 32). The effect mode may be switched when the message is received.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
In the above-described embodiment (first embodiment), the production control microcomputer 100 performs notification that the production is changed to the production having a low possibility of being controlled to the probability variation state at the second timing. By limiting, the effect that linked the duration of the predetermined state and the mode effect is realized, but the predetermined effect is based on the combination of the notification executed at the first timing and the notification executed at the second timing. By performing the above, it is possible to realize an effect that links the duration of the predetermined state and the mode effect.

  In this embodiment (second embodiment), when the production control microcomputer 100 is in the probability variation state, the type of effect executed after the notification is performed at the first timing and the notification at the second timing. A specific combination is selected at a high ratio among the combinations with the types of effects to be executed after.

  FIG. 39 is an explanatory diagram showing a mode effect determination table used in the second embodiment. The mode effect determination table is stored in the ROM of the effect control microcomputer 100. Also, in the mode effect determination table, a combination of data indicating the effect mode after the first timing and data indicating the effect mode after the second timing, and a determination value are set in correspondence.

  FIG. 39A shows a table used in the case of a normal big hit, and FIG. 39B shows a table used in the case of a probable big hit. Comparing the table used in the case of the normal jackpot shown in FIG. 39 with the table used in the case of the probability variation jackpot, the “small probability change mode” (for the first timing) and the “probability change possibility mode” ( The combination with “about the second timing” is usually selected at a high rate in the case of big hit, and “high probability change possibility mode” (for the first timing) and “high probability change possibility mode” (for the second timing) The combination is selected at a high rate in the case of a probable big hit.

  Note that, when the effect mode is switched, the effect of informing the effect mode after switching is executed as in the case of the first embodiment.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, when the change to the “high probability change possibility mode” is notified at the first timing and the change to the “high probability change possibility mode” is notified at the second timing, a high ratio is obtained. Thus, the gaming state is a probable change state. That is, the combination of the “high probability change possibility mode” (for the first timing) and the “high probability change possibility mode” (for the second timing) is a combination of the production modes with high reliability with respect to the probability change state.

  FIG. 40 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the effect mode in the second embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 40, when the mode effect is not being performed (in the normal mode), a mountain background image is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9.

  In the small probability change mode in the effect mode, a forest background image is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9. In the probability change mode, a city background image is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9. In the high probability change possibility mode, a sea background image is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9.

  As in the case of the first embodiment, in the probability change notification effect, a beach background image is displayed on the display screen of the effect display device 9.

  FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing a mode effect setting process in the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, the effect control CPU 101 does not execute the process of step S503 in the first embodiment (see FIG. 28). This is because the effect mode after switching in the mode effect is determined in the jackpot end effect process, as will be described later.

  FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end effect process (step S806) in the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, in the jackpot end effect process, the effect control CPU 101 executes steps S891A to S891C instead of the process in step S891 (see FIG. 38) in the first embodiment.

  In other words, the effect control CPU 101 selects the mode with a low probability of change as the effect mode when there are 10 big hits in a short time (steps S891A and S891B). If it is a big hit other than 10 big hits in a short time, an effect mode corresponding to the normal big hit / probable big hit is selected (step S891B).

  In step S891B, the effect control CPU 101 uses the mode effect determination table used in the case of the normal big hit shown in FIG. An effect mode (effect mode after switching) switched at the time of change and an effect mode (effect mode after change) switched at the second timing (at the time of the 20th change in the short time state) are determined. When it is a promising big hit, using the mode production determination table used in the case of a normal big hit shown in FIG. 39 (B), the production mode (switching) at the first timing (at the time of the tenth fluctuation in the short time state) The production mode (the production mode after the switching) to be switched at the second timing (at the time of the 20th fluctuation in the time-saving state) and the second production mode are determined.

  Note that the combination of effect modes and the determination value are set in the mode effect determination table, and the effect control CPU 101 extracts a predetermined random number and determines a combination corresponding to the determination value that matches the value of the random number.

  In addition, an effect mode (switching effect mode after switching) at the first timing (at the time of the tenth change in the short time state) and an effect mode (switching at the time of the 20th change in the time shortening state) are switched. The fact that “the subsequent effect mode” is determined means that the notification content (notifying the effect mode after switching) at the first timing and the second timing is also determined.

  The processing of the game control microcomputer 560 and the other processing of the effect control microcomputer 100 are the same as in the case of the first embodiment.

  In this embodiment, when the production control microcomputer 100 is in a certain change state, the production is executed after the notification is performed at the first timing and the notification at the second timing. In other words, by selecting a specific combination at a high ratio among the combinations of the types of effects, in other words, a specific combination of the types of notification at the first timing and the types of notification at the second timing is selected. By selecting at a high rate, the continuation period of the predetermined state (in this embodiment, the number of time reductions) and the mode effect are linked to give the player a higher expectation for being controlled to the probabilistic state. Can improve the fun of the game.

Embodiment 3 FIG.
In the first embodiment, the mode effect is executed in the short time state (high base state), but the mode effect may be executed in another period.

  As an example, a mode effect is executed during a big hit game. When the mode effect is executed during the big hit game, for example, the 10th round is set as the first timing, and the 15th round is set as the second timing.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 executes the notification effect at the first timing and the second timing according to the type of jackpot, similarly to the examples shown in FIGS. When applied to this embodiment, “10th variation” and “20th variation” in FIGS. 10 and 11 are read as “10th round” and “15th round”.

  Then, as in the case of the first embodiment, the degree of possibility that the production control microcomputer 100 is controlled at the second timing in a more probable state than the type of production notified at the first timing. The notification that the effect changes to a low performance is not performed.

  In this embodiment as well, the production control microcomputer 100 changes to an effect at the second timing, which is less likely to be controlled in a certain variation state than the type of effect notified at the first timing. Notification is not performed (see FIGS. 10 and 11). As a result, the continuation period of the predetermined state (in this embodiment, during the big hit game) and the mode effect can be linked to give the player a higher expectation for being controlled to the probabilistic state. Will be more interesting.

Embodiment 4 FIG.
In the second embodiment, the mode effect is executed in the short time state (high base state), but the mode effect may be executed in another period.

  As an example, a mode effect is executed during a big hit game. When the mode effect is executed during the big hit game, for example, the 10th round is set as the first timing, and the 15th round is set as the second timing.

  As in the case of the second embodiment, the effect control microcomputer 100 uses the mode effect determination table used in the case of the normal big hit shown in FIG. Effect mode (effect mode after switching) switched at one timing (in this case, the tenth round) and effect mode (effect mode after switching) switched at the second timing (in this case, the fifteenth round) And decide. When it is a probable big hit, using the mode production determination table used in the case of the normal big hit shown in FIG. 39B, the production mode is switched at the first timing (the production mode after switching) and the second timing. Effect mode (effect mode after switching) is determined.

  When applied to this embodiment, “changed 10 times” and “changed 20 times” in FIG. 39 are read as “tenth round” and “15th round”.

  Also in this embodiment, when the production control microcomputer 100 is in a certain variation state, the production is executed after the notification is performed at the first timing and the notification at the second timing. In other words, by selecting a specific combination at a high ratio among the combinations of the types of effects, in other words, a specific combination of the types of notification at the first timing and the types of notification at the second timing is selected. By selecting at a high rate, the continuation period of the predetermined state (in this embodiment, the number of time reductions) and the mode effect are linked to give the player a higher expectation for being controlled to the probabilistic state. Can improve the fun of the game.

  In the first and second embodiments, the execution timing of the notification effect is at the time of change (variable display) of the symbols (identification information) at the 10th, 20th and 30th times after the end of the big hit game. The execution timing of the notification effect may be another timing. For example, the 8th, 16th, and 24th symbols may be changed. As an example, the second and subsequent execution timings are not a multiple of a certain number of times (for example, 5 times, 8 times, and 10 times) as in the case of the fifth, twelfth, and twentieth symbol changes. Also good.

  Further, in the first and second embodiments, when the notification effect is not executed due to the change in the execution timing of the notification effect, the big hit expectation degree may be increased (or the big hit confirmation).

  In addition, since the operation button 120 is provided, for example, when the effect mode is changed, the notification effect is performed or the mode effect is switched on condition that the player operates the operation button 120. Good.

  In the above embodiment, the types of jackpots include normal jackpots and probability variation jackpots, but other types of jackpots (for example, sudden probability variation jackpots (the number of times the number of times of opening of the big prize opening is small in the jackpot gaming state ( For example, it is a big hit that allows up to 0.1 seconds to be released twice, but the opening time of the big prize opening is extremely short, and the game state after the big hit game shifts to a probable state (ie, By doing so, there may be something that makes it appear to the player as if it has suddenly become probable.

  In a game machine that can be controlled to sudden probability change big hit, the mode effect may be executed after the big hit game based on sudden probability change big hit.

  In addition, a small hit (permissible number of times that the number of times of opening of the big winning opening is small compared to the big win (in this embodiment, the opening for 0.1 seconds is twice): when the small hit game is completed The gaming state does not change, that is, the probability change state (high probability state) does not change to the low probability state or the low probability state does not change to the probability change state.

  In a game machine that can be controlled in sudden probability change big hit and small hit, the mode effect may be executed after the big hit game based on the sudden probability change big hit and after the small hit game ends.

  In the above-described 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 that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control in accordance with the effect control command directly received from the game control microcomputer 560 in the above-described embodiment. Display control can be performed in accordance with commands received from the board 35 or the sound / lamp board.

  In addition, the gaming machine of each of the embodiments described above is a pachinko gaming machine in which a predetermined game value can be given to a player when a special symbol stop symbol variably displayed based on a start winning combination becomes a predetermined symbol combination However, the present invention can be applied not only to pachinko machines but also to slot machines.

  In general, with a slot machine, a “small role winning” that is not accompanied by a special game such as a big bonus game, a regular bonus game, or a replay game, but only with a valuable value (for example, credits or medals). “Replay winnings that give you the ability to start the next game without consuming medals or credits”, “Regular bonus winnings” that gives you the ability to run regular bonus games multiple times, There is a “Big Bonus Winner” that gives a bonus that allows a bonus game to be played multiple times. In the regular bonus game, only a special winning combination is valid during the regular bonus game, and the winning combination is won internally with a very high probability. In the big bonus game, the winning probability of the small role winning and the regular bonus winning is set to a high probability state. The big bonus game is provided until a regular bonus prize is generated a predetermined number of times or a predetermined upper limit number of big bonus games is consumed.

  In such a slot machine, the bonus game may be in a predetermined state that shifts when a predetermined state transition condition is satisfied. That is, a slot machine having a plurality of types of game times (corresponding to a predetermined period) executes a common effect during the bonus period, and when the first period ends, The first notification means for notifying whether the effect changes to any one of the effects or the type of effect that has been executed continues, and after the notification by the first notification means is performed, the predetermined state continues. In such a case, when the second period ends, second notification means for notifying whether the common effect changes to one of a plurality of types of effect or the type of effect that has been executed continues. And the second notification means controls so as not to perform notification to the effect that the degree of possibility of being controlled to the special gaming state is lower than the kind of effect notified by the first notification means. It may be.

  In addition, when in the special gaming state, among the combinations of the types of effects executed after the notification by the first notification means and the types of effects executed after the notification by the second notification means, A specific combination may be selected at a high rate.

  Furthermore, the gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to a payout type gaming machine that pays out a predetermined number of prize balls in response to detection of winning balls, but responds to detection of winning balls by enclosing gaming balls. It can also be applied to enclosed game machines that give points.

  The present invention can be applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine, and in particular, is a gaming machine provided with variable display means, and is preferably applied to a gaming machine capable of executing various effects on the variable display means. The

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 Game control microcomputer 80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 101 Production control CPU
109 VDP

Claims (6)

A specific game state having a variable display unit for variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them and deriving and displaying the display result, and advantageous for the player when the specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display unit A gaming machine to control
Whether the display result derived and displayed on the variable display unit is a specific display result, and when it is determined to be the specific display result, the game state is identified as compared with the normal game state and the normal game state Pre-determining means for deciding which of the special gaming states in which variable display of information is likely to become the specific display result;
Predetermined state control means for shifting the gaming state to a predetermined state over a first period or a second period longer than the first period when a predetermined state transition condition is established;
A common effect executing means for executing a common effect in the normal game state and in the special game state after the game state has shifted to the predetermined state;
As the common effects, there are multiple types of effects with different degrees of expectation for being controlled in the special gaming state,
The common effect execution means includes
First notifying means for notifying which of the plurality of types of effects is controlled when the first period ends;
If the predetermined state continues after the notification by the first notification means, when the second period ends, a notification of which of the plurality of types of effects is controlled. Second informing means for performing,
The second notification means restricts notification to the effect that the degree of expectation for being controlled in the special gaming state is lower than the effect notified by the first notification means. Gaming machine. A specific game state having a variable display unit for variably displaying a plurality of types of identification information that can identify each of them and deriving and displaying the display result, and advantageous for the player when the specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display unit A gaming machine to control
Whether the display result derived and displayed on the variable display unit is a specific display result, and when it is determined to be the specific display result, the game state is identified as compared with the normal game state and the normal game state Pre-determining means for deciding which of the special gaming states in which variable display of information is likely to become the specific display result;
Predetermined state control means for shifting the gaming state to a predetermined state over a first period or a second period longer than the first period when a predetermined state transition condition is established;
A common effect executing means for executing a common effect in the normal game state and in the special game state after the game state has shifted to the predetermined state;
As the common effects, there are multiple types of effects with different degrees of expectation for being controlled in the special gaming state,
The common effect execution means includes
First notifying means for notifying which of the plurality of types of effects is controlled when the first period ends;
After the notification by the first notification means, the second notification means for notifying which of the plurality of types of effects is controlled when the predetermined state continues,
Of the combination of the effect executed after the notification by the first notification means and the effect executed after the notification by the second notification means are in the special gaming state, a specific combination A gaming machine characterized by selecting a high percentage. The predetermined state is a state in which the execution frequency of variable display of identification information is increased,
Notification means for executing notification that the display result becomes the specific display result before the display result is derived and displayed on the variable display unit when the predetermination means determines that the display result is the specific display result. With
When the gaming state is the predetermined state, the gaming state control unit determines the gaming state after the specific gaming state is ended when the prior determination unit determines that the display result is the specific display result. , Shifting to the predetermined state that continues for a third period longer than the second period,
The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising notification prohibiting means for prohibiting execution of notification by the notification means in a predetermined state until the end of the second period. The common effect execution means performs notification from the start of variable display of identification information to the start of a specific gaming state,
When it is determined by the predetermining means that the variable display of the identification information is the specific display result, the specific that executes the effect of notifying that it is controlled to the specific gaming state after being notified by the common effect executing means The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising notification effect execution means. The common effect execution means performs notification from the start of variable display of identification information to the start of a specific gaming state,
The common performance execution means is controlled to a kind of performance with a low expectation for being controlled to the special gaming state when the prior determination means determines that the variable display of the identification information is the specific display result. The gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein notification of effect is performed. Based on the determination result of the pre-decision means, the variable display time selection means for selecting the variable display time of the identification information,
The common effect execution means performs notification from the start of variable display of identification information until the display result is derived and displayed,
The variable display time selection unit selects, at a high rate, a variable display time during which the notification effect can be executed as a variable display time of identification information when the common effect execution unit performs notification. A gaming machine according to any one of the above.

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