JP2013198748A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine allowing easy recognition of the execution of notice display and improving interest by making a player select whether or not to execute the notice display.SOLUTION: Notice display is executed based on that a player has operated an operation means by performing control to execute the notice display of the effect that a determination result of a display result advance determination means is a specific display result by displaying a display state of a start storage display part 18 in a second display state different from a first display state from a stage before a start of the variable display of identification information 9a-9c by the satisfaction of a start condition determined based on the determination result of the display result advance determination means, based on that the operation of the operation means 10 capable of being operated by the player is effective, so that interest in the notice display of the player can be improved.

Description

  The present invention includes a variable display device that performs variable display of a plurality of types of identification information that can be identified by each to derive and display a display result, and a display result predetermination unit that determines the display result before the derived display. The present invention relates to a gaming machine that controls to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player when a predetermined specific display result is displayed.

  Conventionally, it is specified in a gaming machine, for example, a ball game machine, provided with a variable display device that variably displays a plurality of types of identification information each identifiable based on the establishment of a predetermined starting condition and derives and displays a display result A notice display for notifying a player that a display result is obtained is executed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP-A-8-243224 (pages 14-15, FIG. 50)

  In the gaming machine having the above-described configuration, since the notice display for notifying the specific display result is executed regardless of the player's intention, the player may not be able to recognize that the notice display is being executed. The present invention has been made in view of the circumstances described above, and the object of the present invention is to make it possible to easily recognize the execution of the notice display by allowing the player to select whether or not to execute the notice display. An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can be improved.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 1 includes a variable display device (for example, variable display device 8) capable of controlling display of a plurality of types of image information. A plurality of types of identification information that can be identified (for example, special symbols 9a to 9c) are variably displayed to derive and display a display result, and a predetermined specific display result (for example, jackpot symbol) is derived and displayed as the display result. A game machine that controls a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state) that is advantageous to the player when the game is played, and an operation means (for example, the operation button 10) that can be operated by the player, and controls the progress of the game Game control means (for example, CPU 56) to perform, and display control means (for example, effect control CPU 111) for controlling the variable display device based on a command transmitted by the game control means. The game control means includes a display result predetermination means (for example, a jackpot determination process, step S122) for determining the display result before the derivation display, and variable display of the identification information by the variable display device. Variable display time determining means (for example, step S302) for determining a variable display time from the start until the display result is derived and displayed, the variable display time determined by the variable display time determining means, and the display result Command transmitting means for transmitting a command (variation pattern command, special symbol designating command) that can specify the determination result of the predetermining means to the display control means (for example, a part for executing command setting processing of the CPU 111 for effect control; step S155 And the display control means receives the command received from the command transmission means. Based on the variable display control means (for example, the variation pattern command received from the CPU 56 of the effect control CPU 111 is received), the variable information of the special information 9a to 9c is displayed. A function for deriving and displaying a display result) and a notice effect executing means for executing a notice effect for executing a notice on the condition that the operation means is operated based on a command received from the command transmitting means (for example, effect control) The CPU 111 of the main CPU 111 has a function of executing a notice selection effect based on reception of the change pattern command at the time of notice from the CPU 56, and the display control means is capable of displaying the variable display regardless of the operation timing of the operation means by the player. When the variable display time determined by the time determining means is reached, the display result is derived and displayed. The notice effect executing means executes the notice based on the operation means being operated within an effective period set for a predetermined period after the command transmission by the command sending means when the notice effect is executed. On the other hand, when the operating means is not operated within the effective period, the advance notice is not executed, and a predetermined character image (for example, the character image 11) is displayed and controlled during the effective period. Is notified.
By configuring in this way, since the advance notice is executed based on the player operating the operation means, it can be easily recognized that the advance notice is being executed, and the player's interest in the advance notice is improved. Can do.

Further, the notice display control means performs control to execute the notice display with a predetermined probability even when the determination result of the display result prior decision means becomes a display result other than the specific display result (for example, step S125). In this case, it is determined whether or not the notice selection effect is to be executed using the notice determination table at the time of deviation).
By configuring in this way, the notice display is executed even when the specific display result is not obtained with a predetermined probability, so that it is possible to improve the interest in the progress state of the game even after the player's notice display is executed. it can.

Further, the advance notice selection effect execution means executes the advance notice selection effect before the variable display of the identification information is started on the variable display device, and according to the time until the operation determination means determines The period for notifying the determination result of the operation determining means is adjusted (for example, the periods t2 and t2 ′ for displaying the result of the notice selection effect are adjusted according to the operation timing of the operation button 10 (period t1 or t1 ′)). A display period adjusting means for controlling the time until the variable display of the identification information is started after notifying the player of the operation result of the operation means regardless of the time for which the player operates the operation means. (For example, the control for starting the variation display of the special symbols 9a to 9c after the validity period T has elapsed in FIG. 13A of the CPU 111 for effect control).
By comprising in this way, since a player participation type | formula production which a player can participate in selection of a notice display can be performed by providing an operation means, the interest of a player can be improved. In addition, since the time until the variable display is started can be controlled to be constant by adjusting the period for displaying the determination result of the notice selection effect, the management of the variable display time can be facilitated.

The notice selection effect executing means executes the notice selection effect before the variable display of the identification information is started on the variable display device, and the display control means is determined by the operation determining means. The variable display of the identification information is started based on the fact (for example, the variable symbols of the special symbols 9a to 9c are started to be displayed based on the operation button 10 being operated in FIG. 13C). To do.
By configuring in this way, by providing the operation means, a player participation type effect that allows the player to participate in the selection of the advance notice display is performed, and further, the variable display is started by operating the operation means. By operating the operation means, the display result is derived earlier, and the player's interest in the game can be improved.

Further, the notice selection effect execution determining means displays the notice selection effect when the start storage means includes numerical data determined to be displayed as the specific display result by the display result predetermining means. It is determined that execution is performed (for example, the processing of steps S123 to S129 is executed only when YES is set in step S123 of the notice setting processing (step S115)).
By configuring in this way, the advance notice display is executed for the start-up memory that becomes the specific display result, so that it is possible to increase the expectation for the specific display result when the advance notice display is executed.

Further, at least during the execution control of the notice display by the notice display control means, a sound output means (for example, a speaker 27) that generates a sound when the start condition is satisfied, and the sound output means generates the sound. Established sound determination means (for example, for effect control) for determining whether or not the established sound is a special established sound different from the established sound (for example, the voice “picone” shown in FIG. 11 (L)). And a function of determining whether or not to make a special sound based on a start memory number designation command from the CPU 56 of the CPU 111), and the display result is determined by the display result predetermining means in the start storage means. A specific determination table used by the sound establishment determination unit when the numerical data determined to be included is included, and the display result prior determination unit in the start storage unit A non-specific determination table used by the sound establishment determination means when the numerical data determined to be the specific display result is not included, and the special formation sound in the specific determination table The determination table is configured such that the ratio at which the determination is made is higher than the ratio at which the determination is made as the specially established sound in the non-specific determination table.
By configuring in this way, when the notice display is executed when the start memory as the specific display result is included, the ratio of the special establishment sound being generated when the start condition is satisfied during the notice display execution is high. The player can be directed to execute a game that establishes the start condition even while the notice display is being executed, and the operating rate of the gaming machine can be increased.

The notice display control means does not execute the notice display when the operation determining means does not determine that the operation means has been operated during the period in which the notice selection effect is being executed (for example, step The notice execution command is not transmitted when the answer is NO in S184).
By configuring in this manner, when the operation means is not operated, the notice display is not executed. Therefore, the operation value of the operation means can be given to the player, and the interest can be improved.

The data storage means includes image data (for example, image data 113a) used when the notice selection effect execution means executes the notice selection effect, and the notice selection effect execution means includes the image data. The numerical data for executing the notice display is notified by a character image (for example, the character image 11 in FIG. 10F) included in the image.
By comprising in this way, since a character image is displayed and a notice selection effect is performed, the interest with respect to a notice selection effect can be improved.

Further, the start memory display means has a function of controlling the display of the start memory display section in a plurality of display modes, and the start memory display means executes the notice selection effect by the notice selection effect executing means. In some cases, the display mode of the start memory display unit is sequentially controlled to be different from the first display mode for all the start memory display units of the start memory display unit. .
By comprising in this way, since the effect which specifies the start memory which performs a notice display by a determination effect is performed, a player's expectation can be improved. In addition, since the determination effect can be executed even when the notice display is not executed, the interest of the player can be improved.

  As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention, since the notice display is executed based on the player operating the operation means, it is possible to easily recognize that the notice display is being executed. The interest for the notice display can be improved.

  In addition, since the notice display is not executed when the operation means is not operated, the operation value of the operation means can be given to the player, and the interest can be improved.

  Moreover, since the character image is displayed and the notice selection effect is executed, the interest in the notice selection effect can be improved.

It is the front view which looked at the bullet ball game machine concerning this embodiment from the front. It is a block diagram showing the outline | summary of the circuit structure of the ball game machine which concerns on this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a starting port switch passage process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a notice setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol fluctuation | variation process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a display control process process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of this embodiment. Similarly, it is explanatory drawing which shows an example of this embodiment. Similarly, it is explanatory drawing which shows an example of this embodiment. Similarly, it is explanatory drawing which shows an example of this embodiment. It is a timing chart which shows an example of the fluctuation pattern of this embodiment.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, an overall configuration of a bullet ball gaming machine 1 which is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the ball game machine 1 as seen from the front. Note that, here, a ball game machine is shown as an example of the game machine, but the present invention is not limited to the ball game machine, for example, an image type game machine, a coin game machine, a slot machine, and the like. Also good.

  The bullet ball 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 openable and closable. Further, the bullet ball gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape 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. And the board 6).

  As shown in FIG. 1, the ball game machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape. On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Below the hit ball supply tray 3, there are provided an extra ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls 12 that cannot be accommodated in the hit ball supply tray 3, and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the game balls 12. In addition, an operation button 10 is provided above the operation handle 5 to output an operation signal to a main board 31 to be described later according to an artificial operation. Further, 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 the game balls 12 that have been driven can flow down. The operation button 10 is used to change an effect mode, which will be described later, by the player's operation and reflect the player's operation in the effect content.

  Near the center of the game area 7, a plurality of types of identification information (for example, special symbols 9 a to 9 c, each of which can be identified based on the establishment of a predetermined starting condition (for example, starting winning to the starting winning port 14)) 10) is provided, and a variable display device 8 for deriving and displaying the display result is provided. In the present embodiment, the variable display device 8 is configured by a liquid crystal display device (LCD), and a display unit 9 that variably displays special symbols 9a to 9c is provided at the center thereof. The display unit 9 controls the display of identification information in three display areas, left, middle, and right.

  Note that the ball game machine 1 in the present embodiment has the display unit 9 when the display result predetermining means (step S122) described later determines that the display result of the display unit 9 is a predetermined specific display result. After the specific display result is displayed, the game has a function of controlling to a big hit gaming state as a specific gaming state advantageous to the player.

  In addition, the specific display result includes a special display result (probability variation symbol) and a non-special display result (non-probability variation symbol) other than the special display result, and the ball game machine 1 in this embodiment has a special symbol stop symbol setting described later. When it is determined in the process (step S301) that the display result is a special display result, the special display result is displayed on the display unit 9 and then controlled to a specific gaming state (big hit gaming state). It also has a function of controlling the probability change state as a special game state in which the result is more likely to be a specific display result (big hit symbol) than the normal game state (high probability of being a big hit game state). The normal game state is a game state different from the special game state and the specific game state.

  Further, in the upper right part of the display unit 9, numerical data is extracted from numerical data updating means (to be described later) when the start condition is established (the game ball 12 wins the start winning opening 14), and the extracted numerical data is used as the start condition. Corresponding to the start condition (for example, variable display of the previous special symbols 9a to 9c and the end of the big hit gaming state) is not yet satisfied among the numerical data Start memory display for individually displaying numerical data (starting memory) stored in starting storage means (for example, a function for storing numerical data by the RAM 55 of the main board 31) for storing numerical data to be processed up to a predetermined upper limit number A start memory display area 18 as a unit is provided.

  The start memory display area 18 changes the display color (for example, changes from blue display to red display) every time there is an effective start prize (in this embodiment, a start prize when the number of stored start memories is less than 4). Each time the variable display of the special symbols 9a to 9c is started on the variable display device 8, the start memory display area 18 where the display color is changed is reduced by one. That is, the display color is returned to the original state.

  In this embodiment, the number of effective start winnings is four, but is not limited to this. For example, the number of effective start winnings may be 30. In this case, the start memory display area may be configured so that the number of stored start memories for 30 times can be displayed, and only a predetermined number (for example, 5) of the start memories for 30 times can be displayed. It may be.

  In the variable display device 8 in this embodiment, the display unit 9 and the display area of the start memory display area 18 are provided separately, so the number of start memories stored even during variable display. Can be displayed.

  On the upper part of the variable display device 8, there is provided a normal symbol display 13 composed of a pair of LEDs marked with “◯” and “X”. The normal symbol display 13 can variably display a plurality of types of identification information (for example, “◯” and “x”) called normal symbols. On the left and right sides of the normal symbol display 13, the game ball 12 passes through the gate 32, and the starting condition in the normal symbol display 13 is satisfied, but the variable symbol display on the normal symbol display 13 is still started. A normal symbol start memory display 19 for storing a normal symbol start memory that does not satisfy the condition is provided.

  Below the variable display device 8, a variable winning ball device 15 having a start winning opening 14 is provided. The game ball (winning ball) 12 that has entered the start winning opening 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the start opening switch. A variable winning ball device 15 that opens and closes is provided below the start winning opening 14. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid (not shown).

  An opening / closing plate 20 that is opened by a solenoid (not shown) in the above-described specific gaming state (big hit gaming state) is provided below the variable winning ball device 15. The opening / closing plate 20 is provided on the front face of the special winning opening 21 and is a means for opening and closing the special winning opening 21. Of the game balls (winning balls) 12 led from the opening / closing plate 20 to the back of the game board 6, the game balls (winning balls) 12 entering one (V winning area) are detected by the V winning switch and the other ( A game ball (winning ball) 12 that has entered a (10-count winning area) is detected by a count switch. A solenoid (not shown) for switching the route in the special winning opening 21 is also provided on the back of the game board 6.

  When the game ball 12 wins the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch, a predetermined random number value is extracted if the normal symbol start memory number which is the start memory number of the normal symbol display 13 has not reached the upper limit. If the normal symbol display 13 can start variable display (for example, LEDs with “◯” and “x” blinking alternately) whose display state changes, the normal symbol display 13 Variable display starts. If the normal symbol display 13 is not ready to start variable display whose display state changes, the value of the normal symbol start memory is incremented by one. In the vicinity of the right and left of the normal symbol display 13, a normal symbol start memory display 19 having a display unit with a predetermined number (four in this embodiment) of LEDs for displaying the normal symbol start memory number is provided. Each time there is a prize at the gate 32, the normal symbol start memory display 19 increments the LED to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 13 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one. Note that the special symbols 9a to 9c and the normal symbols can be variably displayed on one variable display device. In that case, the special variable display area for variably displaying the special symbols 9a to 9c and the normal variable display area for variably displaying the normal symbols are realized by one variable display device.

  In this embodiment, the left and right lamps marked with ○ and X (the symbols become visible when turned on) are alternately turned on to perform variable display of the normal symbols, and the variable display is performed for a predetermined time (for example, 29.2) Continue. Then, if the left lamp marked with ○ is turned on at the end of the variable display, it is a win. Whether or not to win is determined by whether or not the value of the random number extracted when the game ball 12 wins the gate 32 matches a predetermined hit determination value. When the display result of the variable display on the normal symbol display 13 is a win, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times for a predetermined time, so that the game ball 12 can easily win. That is, the state of the variable winning ball device 15 changes from a disadvantageous state to a player's advantageous state when the normal symbol is a winning symbol.

  Furthermore, in the probability variation state as the special gaming state, the probability that the special symbol 9a to 9c on the display unit 9 of the variable display device 8 is the winning symbol (specific display result: “777”, for example) is higher than the normal gaming state. In addition to being increased, the variable display time (variation time) of the special symbols 9a to 9c is shortened from the normal gaming state. Further, in the normal symbol display 13, the probability that the stop symbol becomes a winning symbol is higher than in the normal gaming state, and one or both of the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 are higher than in the normal gaming state. It is done. This further benefits the player. Further, in a predetermined state such as a probability change state, the variable display time (fluctuation time) on the normal symbol display 13 may be shortened from the normal game state, thereby making it more advantageous for the player.

  In addition, you may make it make a more advantageous state for a player by controlling to a short time state as a special game state. In the short time state, the display unit 9 of the variable display device 8 and the normal symbol display 13 are normally used until the variable display (variable display) of the special symbols 9a to 9c is executed a predetermined number of times (for example, 100 times) on the display unit 9. The variable display time (fluctuation time) of the symbol is shortened from the normal gaming state. Further, in the variable winning ball apparatus 15, one or both of the opening time and the number of times of opening are raised from the normal gaming state. When the opening time or the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 is increased from the normal gaming state, the starting winning to the starting winning port 14 is likely to occur, and the special symbols 9a to 9c on the display unit 9 can be changed within a predetermined period. Since the number of times of display increases and the probability that the special symbols 9a to 9c will be a winning symbol is higher than the normal gaming state, it becomes a more advantageous state for the player.

  Further, the special game state is not limited to the above, and the game control that is advantageous to the player may be set to the special game state. Hereinafter, this game control will be described separately for those that are not directly related to the jackpot (except during the specific gaming state) and those that are directly related to the jackpot (in the specific gaming state). That is, the special game state added to the specific game state may be a special game state different from the specific game state, or may be a special game state including the specific game state. First, as game control that is not directly related to the big hit, special symbol 9a-9c or normal symbol time reduction (short time) control or probability variation (probability change) control, electric role (for example, variable winning ball device) 15) Opening period extension control, start control passage area expansion control for special symbols or ordinary symbols (for example, a winning opening (not shown) installed in the game board 6 is a starting winning opening for special symbols 9a to 9c) Control for changing the setting), control for increasing the number of prize balls (for example, control for increasing the number of prize balls to 13 from 15 in the normal gaming state), or control for improving the passing rate to a predetermined area (for example, A ball control device is provided on the upstream side of the start winning opening 14, and the control of improving the start winning rate by the operation of the ball control device) can be set to a special gaming state, and further variable display based on the start winning game Stopped design When the present invention is applied to a third-type ball game machine in which a predetermined right is generated or continued when there is a prize for a predetermined electric combination that is released when the symbol is a combination of predetermined symbols The winning percentage improvement control may be in a special gaming state. On the other hand, as game control directly related to the big hit, improvement control of the upper limit number of rounds, improvement control of the upper limit number of counts, open / extension control of the opening / closing plate 20, or winning in the big winning opening 21 opened by the opening / closing plate 20 The increase control of the number of prize balls accompanying the game can be set to a special game state. Needless to say, the above-described game control can be combined into a special game state. Furthermore, the entry into the special gaming state (establishment of the predetermined condition) and the end timing are not limited to those described in the present embodiment, but a random number, a game history (for example, time, reach number, predetermined winning opening) The number of winnings, the number of passing, etc.), winnings, and subgames (including those that can be selected by the player themselves, such as janken), or any one or any combination is entered or terminated Anything can be set as a trigger.

  Decorative lamps 25 blinking and displayed during the game are provided around the left and right of the game area 7 of the game board 6, and an out port 26 into which the game ball 12 that has not won a prize is taken in below. In addition, speakers 27 serving as sound output means for producing sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the left and right upper portions outside the game area 7. A top frame lamp 40, a frame lamp left 41, and a frame lamp right 42 provided on the front frame are provided at the outer peripheral upper portion, the outer peripheral left portion, and the outer peripheral right portion of the game area 7. In this example, a prize ball lamp 51 that is turned on when there is a remaining number of prize balls is provided in the vicinity of the frame lamp left 41, and a ball that is turned on when the supply ball is cut off in the vicinity of the frame lamp right 42. A cut lamp 52 is provided.

  Next, the reach state will be described. In the present embodiment, the reach state means that when the stopped symbol constitutes a part of the jackpot symbol, the symbols that have not been stopped yet are variablely displayed (variable display) and all or one of them. This is a state in which the symbols of the parts are displayed in a synchronized manner while constituting all or part of the jackpot symbol.

  In the present embodiment, an effective line that becomes a big hit is determined in the display unit 9 as a plurality of predetermined display areas by stopping a predetermined symbol, and a part of the display area on the effective line is determined. A state in which variable display is performed in a display area on an active line that has not been stopped when a predetermined symbol is stopped (for example, left, right display among left, middle, and right display areas) The area that is part of the jackpot symbol (for example, “7”) is stopped and the display area on the right is still being displayed), and all the display areas on the active line Or, some symbols are changing and displaying synchronously while constituting all or part of the jackpot symbol (for example, all the left, middle and right display areas are changing and are always the same) Fluctuates with all the symbols Shows refers to a state) that is being carried out.

  In addition, during the reach, an unusual effect may be performed with a lamp or sound. This production is called reach production. Further, in the case of reach, a character (an effect display imitating a person or the like, which is different from a design) may be displayed, or the background display mode may be changed. This change in character display and background display mode is called reach effect display.

  The game ball 12 launched from the ball hitting device enters the game area 7 through the hit ball rail, and then descends the game area 7. When the game ball 12 enters the start winning opening 14 and is detected by the start opening switch, if it is in a state where variable display of special symbols 9a to 9c can be started (for example, end of big hit game or end of previous variable display), display In part 9, variable display (variable display) of special symbols 9a to 9c is started. If variable display of the special symbols 9a to 9c cannot be started, the start storage (numerical data) stored in the start storage means is incremented by 1, and the display state of the start storage display area 18 is updated by one. That is, the display color is changed.

  The variable display of the special symbols 9a to 9c on the display unit 9 stops when a certain time has elapsed. When the special symbols 9a to 9c at the time of stop become a big hit symbol (specific display result), the game shifts to a big hit gaming state. In other words, the big winning opening 21 is opened by the opening / closing plate 20 until a predetermined time elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, ten) of the game balls 12 wins the big winning opening 21. Note that one round is from the opening / closing of the grand prize winning opening 21 by the opening / closing plate 20 until a predetermined period elapses or until a predetermined number (for example, ten) of the game balls 12 wins the big winning prize opening 21. . The game ball 12 wins a V winning area in the big winning opening 21 while the big winning opening 21 is opened by the opening / closing plate 20, and when the V winning switch is detected, a continuation right is generated and the opening / closing plate 20 makes a large increase. The winning opening 21 is opened again. The generation of the continuation right is allowed a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 rounds).

  When the stop symbol at the time of fluctuation stoppage of the special symbols 9a to 9c on the display unit 9 is a jackpot symbol with a probability variation (special display result: probability variation symbol), the jackpot gaming state is controlled, and after the jackpot gaming state ends, Next, it is controlled to a special gaming state in which the probability of a big hit is higher than the normal gaming state. That is, it becomes a more advantageous state for the player in a probable change state.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an outline of the circuit configuration of the ball game machine 1 according to the present embodiment. On the main board 31, a basic circuit 53 for controlling the ball game machine 1 according to a program is mounted. The basic circuit 53 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control program and the like, a RAM 55 as a storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 as a game control means for controlling game signals according to the program, an effect control board 80, and the like. An I / O port unit 57 that transmits a control signal is included. In this embodiment, the ROM 54, the RAM 55, and the I / O port unit 57 are built in the CPU 56. That is, the CPU 56 is a one-chip microcomputer. In the one-chip microcomputer, it is sufficient that at least the RAM 55 is built in the CPU 56, and the ROM 54 and the I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached or built-in. Since the CPU 56 executes control according to the program stored in the ROM 54, the CPU 56 executes (or performs processing) hereinafter, specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to the program. is there. The same applies to CPUs mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

  Although not shown in FIG. 2, a gate circuit, a start port switch, a V winning switch, a count switch, a full switch, a count switch short circuit signal, and a switch circuit for supplying signals from the clear switch to the basic circuit 53, variable A solenoid circuit that opens and closes the winning ball apparatus 15, a solenoid circuit that drives a solenoid that opens and closes the opening / closing plate 20 in accordance with a command from the basic circuit 53, a system reset circuit that resets the basic circuit 53 when the power is turned on, and a basic circuit 53 Jackpot information indicating the occurrence of jackpot, effective starting information indicating the number of starting winning balls used to start variable display of special symbols 9a to 9c on the display unit 9, and probability change information indicating that a probability variation has occurred. Information output to an external device such as a hall computer Power circuit, also mounted on the main substrate 31.

  Also, a part or all of the RAM 55 (which may be a CPU built-in RAM) is a backup RAM that is backed up by a backup power source created on the power supply board. 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 saved for a predetermined period.

  Further, the RAM 55 mounted on the main board 31 extracts numerical data from numerical data updating means described later when the start condition is established (the game ball 12 wins the start winning opening 14), and the extracted numerical data is stored in the RAM 55. The extraction condition corresponding to the start condition is stored so that the extraction order can be specified, and the start condition (for example, the variable display of the previous special symbols 9a to 9c and the end of the big hit gaming state) is not yet established among the numerical data. A start storage buffer 55a is provided as start storage means (a function for storing numerical data by the RAM 55 of the main board 31) for storing numerical data corresponding to the number up to a predetermined upper limit number.

  Further, based on a command from a game control means (for example, CPU 56) provided on the main board 31, an effect control CPU 111 as an effect control means provided on the effect control board 80 is provided in the variable display device 8. Further, display control of the display unit 9, sound output control of the speaker 27 as sound output means, light emission control of the lamp / LED, and the like are performed. From the main board 31, an effect control command is transmitted as command information relating to display control of the variable display device 8, lamp / LED lighting control, and control of effects such as generation of game sounds.

  In this embodiment, the display control means included in the effect control means (for example, the effect control CPU 111) mounted on the effect control board 80 is the game control means (CPU 56, ROM 54, RAM 55) mounted on the main board 31. Display control of the variable display device 8 and the normal symbol display 13 provided in the game board 6 based on a control signal (effect control command) from a peripheral circuit such as a peripheral circuit. From the main board 31, as a signal designating the variable display mode of the variable display device 8, a variable pattern command (variable display pattern command) that can specify a variable display time (variable time) and a special symbol stop symbol setting process (step) A command (special symbol designation command) for instructing a stop symbol of the special symbols 9a to 9c determined in S301) is transmitted.

  The effect control board 80 includes a ROM 113 as data storage means for storing data including identification information (for example, a game control program) in response to an effect control command from the main board 31, and a RAM 112 used as a work memory. An effect control CPU 111 that performs display control of the variable display device 8 and the like, drive control of the speaker 27, and the like based on an effect control command from the main board 31, and an I / O that receives an effect control command from the main board 31. A port unit 114 is mounted.

  Further, the ROM 113 of this embodiment includes image data 113a including a character image 11 (see FIG. 10) to be displayed on the display unit 9 in a later-described notice selection effect. When it is determined to execute the notice selection effect, the CPU 56 transmits a variation pattern command including a command for instructing the effect control CPU 111 mounted on the effect control board 80 to execute the notice selection effect. When receiving the variation pattern command including the command for instructing to execute the notice selection effect, the effect control CPU 111 performs control to read the image data 113a and display the character image 11 on the display unit 9.

  The effect control CPU 111 performs display control of the display unit 9 using the LCD via the VDP 100. The VDP 100 generates an image display signal in the VRAM 101 based on the image data relating to the character, background, and display pattern stored in the character ROM 102 and outputs the image display signal to the display unit 9. The variable display device 8 displays an image on the display unit 9 based on the image display signal.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process processing program executed by game control means (for example, the CPU 56) on the main board 31. These processes are executed in an interrupt process performed every 2 ms in the main process executed by the game control means of the main board 31. When performing the special symbol process, the CPU 56 turns on the start opening switch for detecting that the game ball 12 has won the start winning opening 14 provided in the game board 6, that is, the game ball 12. If a start winning to win the start winning opening 14 has occurred (step S311), the start opening switch passing process (step S312) is performed, and then any one of steps S300 to S308 is performed according to the internal state. Process.

  In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 checks whether the number of start memories (numerical data) has reached the maximum value (for example, 4, etc.), and the maximum number of start memories (numerical data) is stored. If the value has not been reached, the number of starting memories (numerical data) is incremented by 1, and the values of random numbers such as jackpot determination random numbers are extracted from numerical data updating means described later, and these are stored in the starting memory (numerical data). A process of storing in the storage area (starting storage buffer 55a) corresponding to the value of the stored number is executed. Note that extracting a random number means reading a count value from a counter for generating a random number and setting the read count value as a random value.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Wait until the variable symbols of special symbols 9a to 9c can be displayed. When the CPU 56 enters a state where variable display of the special symbols 9a to 9c can be started, the CPU 56 checks the number of stored start memories (numerical data). If the number stored in the start memory (numerical data) is not 0, whether or not to win is determined as a result of the variable display of the special symbols 9a to 9c. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S301.

  Special symbol stop symbol setting process (step S301): Stop symbols of special symbols 9a to 9c after variable display are determined. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S302.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S302): The variable pattern fluctuation pattern (variable display mode) of the special symbols 9a to 9c is determined according to the value of the fluctuation pattern determination random number. Also, based on the determined variation pattern, after setting the variable display time (variation time) until the special symbols 9a to 9c are variably displayed and displayed in the special symbol process timer, the special symbol process timer is set to Start it. At this time, information (special symbol designation command) for instructing stop symbols of special symbols 9a to 9c and information (variation pattern command) for instructing a variation mode (variation pattern) are transmitted to the effect control board 80. Is done. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S303.

  Special symbol variation processing (step S303): When a predetermined time has elapsed (the special symbol process timer in step S302 times out), the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to shift to step S304.

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): Control is performed so that the special symbols 9a to 9c variably displayed on the display unit 9 are stopped. Specifically, it is set to a state in which an effect control command (confirmation command) indicating special symbol stop is transmitted. When the special symbols 9a to 9c after the stop become a big hit symbol, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S305. If not, the internal state is updated to shift to step S300.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S305): Control for opening the large winning opening 21 is started. Specifically, the counter and flag are initialized, and the solenoid is driven to open the open / close plate 20 to open the special winning opening 21. Also, the process timer sets the execution time of the big prize opening opening process and sets the big hit flag. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated so as to shift to step S306.

  Processing during opening of the special winning opening (step S306): Control for sending the presentation control command for round display of the special winning opening to the production control board 80, processing for confirming the closing condition of the special winning opening 21 and the like are performed. When the closing condition of the last big winning opening 21 is established, the internal state is updated to shift to step S307.

  Specific area valid time process (step S307): A process for monitoring whether or not the V winning switch is passed and confirming that the big hit gaming state continuation condition is satisfied is performed. If the condition for continuing the big hit gaming state is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state is updated to shift to step S305. In addition, when the big hit gaming state continuation condition is not satisfied within a predetermined effective time, or when all rounds are finished, the internal state is updated to shift to step S308.

  Big hit end processing (step S308): Control for causing the effect control means to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Then, the internal state is updated so as to shift to step S300.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the start port switch passing process (step S312) in the special symbol process. The start port switch passing process is executed when a winning (start winning) of the game ball 12 to the start winning port 14 occurs as a predetermined start condition is satisfied. In the starting port switch passing process, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the number of numerical data (starting storage) stored in the starting storage buffer 55a has reached a predetermined upper limit value. In this embodiment, the “upper limit” value is 20. That is, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the number of start-up memories (numerical data) is 4 (step S111).

  If the start memory (numerical data) storage number has not reached 4, the start memory counter is incremented by 1 (step S112), and each random number such as a big hit determination random number is extracted from the numerical data updating means, The data is stored in a storage area corresponding to the number stored in the start memory (numerical data) (step S113). Next, a notice setting process is executed (step S114).

  In this embodiment, a random number value (for example, a jackpot determination random number, a reach determination random number, for example) is used for the determination related to the variable display of the special symbols 9a to 9c in the variable display device 8 and within a predetermined numerical range. A numerical data updating means for updating random numbers, etc.). The numerical data updating means updates the numerical data by main processing executed by the CPU 56 and interrupt processing executed every 2 ms. Specifically, a counter (for example, big hit determination random number counter) for generating a random number (for example, big hit determination random number) is counted up (1 addition). In step S113 of the start port switch passing process, the effect control CPU 111 reads a count value from a counter for generating a random number, and uses the read count value as a random number value in the start memory (numerical data) of the start memory buffer 55a. Store in the storage area corresponding to the number of memories.

  Further, when the memory number of the start memory changes (for example, a start winning occurs) and the count value of the start memory counter changes, it is executed in an interrupt process in the main process executed by the CPU 56 mounted on the main board 31. In the storage process, a command (starting memory number designation command) indicating the number of starting memories is transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80. Then, the display control means of the effect control CPU 111 controls the start memory display area 18 based on the start memory number designation command.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the notice setting process (step S114) in the start port switch passing process. In the advance notice setting process, the CPU 56 first extracts a jackpot determination random number from a counter for generating a jackpot determination random number (a jackpot determination random number counter) (step S121). Next, the CPU 56 executes a big hit determination process (step S122). Note that the value of the jackpot determination random number extracted here is the value extracted in step S113 and stored in the start storage buffer 55a. This is because the process of step S113 and the process of step S114 are completed within one timer interrupt process, and the random number value does not change during that time. Therefore, the determination result in the notice setting process for the random number value is the same as the determination result when the variable display start condition is satisfied (step S300). In this embodiment, there is provided display result predetermining means (step S122) for determining the display result before the derived display based on the establishment of the start condition.

  When it is determined to be a hit in the jackpot determination process (the jackpot determination value matches the jackpot determination random number) (step S123), the jackpot announcement notice determination table is selected (step S124), and it is determined that the jackpot determination process is out of place. When the jackpot determination value does not match the jackpot determination random number (step S123), the missed time notice determination table is selected (step S125). It should be noted that the big-hit notice determination table and the missed notice determination table are predetermined references that are referred to when determining whether or not to execute a notice selection effect for determining whether or not notice display is executed in step S127 described later. It is a table in which a notice determination value as a determination value is written. In addition, the jackpot notice determination table used when it is determined that the big hit is determined is the number of determination values than the notice determination value in the loss notice determination table used when it is determined that the big hit is determined. The notice determination table is configured so as to increase the number. In other words, when determining whether or not to execute the notice selection effect using the jackpot notice determination table, the notice is compared with determining whether or not to execute the notice selection effect using the off-time notice determination table. The selection effect is easily executed.

  Next, the CPU 56 extracts the notice determination random number from the counter for generating the notice determination random number (step S126), and the notice determination of the extracted notice determination random number and the notice determination table selected in step S124 or step S125. It is determined whether or not the values match (step S127). If the notice determination random number matches the notice determination value (step S128), the notice execution flag is set (step S129).

  By the above processing, when the game ball 12 wins the start winning opening 14 (start winning), it is determined whether or not the notice selection effect is executed. It is determined whether or not the winning state is a jackpot gaming state due to the winning (the extracted numerical data matches the jackpot determination value), and a notification selection effect is executed by selecting a notification determination table based on the determination result. The ratio is different.

  Here, the notice selection effect and notice display executed in this embodiment will be described. The notice display is a special display mode in which the display modes of the start memories 18a to 18d individually displayed in the start memory display area 18 are different from the normal display mode (for example, 18a in FIG. 1: first display mode). By displaying in (for example, 18b in FIG. 1: second display mode), the player is notified that there is a high possibility that the game state will be a big hit gaming state. The notice selection effect is an effect that determines whether or not the notice display is executed by the player operating the operation button 10. That is, when the operation button 10 is operated by the player during the execution of the notice selection effect, the notice display is started. The player can select whether to execute the notice effect.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S302) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S140). The big hit flag is set when it is determined that the big hit is made in the big hit determination process executed in the special symbol normal process (step S300). When the big hit flag is set (step S140), it is checked whether or not the notice execution flag is set (step S141). When the notice execution flag is not set, the big hit hour variation pattern table is set. Is selected (step S142), and when the notice execution flag is set, the notice big hit fluctuation pattern table is selected (step S143).

  When the big hit flag is not set in step S140, it is determined whether or not to reach (step S144), and in the case of reaching, it is confirmed whether or not the notice execution flag is set (step S145). When the advance notice execution flag is not set, the reach variation pattern table is selected (step S146), and when the advance notice flag is set, the advance reach fluctuation pattern table is selected (step S147).

  If it is determined in step S144 that the reach is not reached, it is confirmed whether or not the advance notice flag is set (step S148). If the advance notice flag is not set, the variation pattern table at the time of loss is selected. (Step S149). If the notice execution flag is set (step S148), the notice deviation variation pattern table is selected (step S150).

  When the variation pattern table is selected (steps S140 to S150), the variation pattern determination random number counter is loaded (step S151), and the variation pattern is determined based on the selected variation pattern table (step S152). A variation time based on the variation pattern is set in the special symbol process timer (step S153).

  In this embodiment, when it is determined that the notice selection effect is to be executed in the notice setting process (step S114), the change pattern command including information indicating that the notice selection effect is to be executed is displayed in the effect control board 80. Sent to. In other words, in this embodiment, a variation pattern selected when the notice selection effect is executed and a normal change pattern selected when the notice selection effect is not executed are provided separately.

  In addition, the above-mentioned variation pattern table at the time of big hit, variation pattern table at the time of reach, and variation pattern table at the time of loss are out of the variation pattern that does not execute the notice selection effect and the variation pattern that is out of reach. Are set, and the notice pattern for predicting big hits, the pattern pattern for changing for predictive reach, and the pattern for changing off notices for changing the forecast pattern include the change patterns that are the big hits among the change patterns for executing the notice selection effect. , A variation pattern that causes a divergence in reach and a variation pattern that causes a divergence are set. Then, one of the variation patterns set in each variation pattern table is determined based on the extracted variation pattern determination random number.

  Next, the CPU 56 sets the address of the command transmission table corresponding to the variation pattern command based on the determined variation pattern to the pointer (step S154), and executes a command setting process which is a subroutine (step S155). If the advance notice flag is set (step S156), the effective period timer is started (step S157). Next, the special symbol process timer is started (step S158), and the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol variation process (step S159).

  An effect control command is transmitted to the effect control board 80 by executing the command set process. In this embodiment, each effect control command that can be transmitted to the effect control means is stored in the command transmission table of the ROM 54. In the command set process, the CPU 56 sets the effect control command data stored at the address of the ROM 54 indicated by the pointer as an output port for outputting the effect control command data, and indicates that the command is transmitted. An effect control INT signal is output.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the special symbol variation process (step S303) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol variation process, the CPU 56 first checks whether a notice execution flag or a command transmission flag is set (step S180). The notice execution flag is set when the notice selection effect is decided to be executed in the notice setting process (see FIG. 5), and the command transmission flag is decided to execute the notice display in the notice selection effect. In this case, it is set in step S186 described later. When the notice execution flag or the command transmission flag is set, a timer (effective period timer) for setting the notice selection effect and the validity period of the operation button 10 is set in the variation pattern setting process (see FIG. 6). Therefore, not only the special symbol process timer but also the effective period timer is monitored.

  If the notice execution flag or the command transmission flag is set in step S180, the effective period timer is decremented by 1 (step S181), and it is confirmed whether the effective period timer has timed out (step S182). If the validity period timer has not timed out, it is checked whether or not the command transmission flag is set (step S183). If the command transmission flag is not set, whether an operation signal has been input, that is, a game It is confirmed whether the operation button 10 has been operated by the user (step S184). If an operation signal has been input (YES in step S184), a command (notice execution command) instructing to start the notice display is transmitted to the effect control board 80 (step S185), and the notice execution flag is reset. Then, the command transmission flag is set (step S186). If the validity period timer has timed out in step S182, the notice execution flag or the command execution flag is reset (step S187).

  Next, the CPU 56 decrements the special symbol process timer by 1 (step S188), and when the special symbol process timer times out (step S189), the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop process (step S190). .

  When it is determined that the notice selection effect is to be executed by the above processing, the change control command at the time of the advance notice (the change pattern command at the time of the advance notice hit, the change pattern command at the time of the advance reach, the change pattern command at the time of the advance notice change) The information is transmitted to the substrate 80, and a notice selection effect is executed on the display unit 9. Then, the notice display is executed based on the operation of the operation button 10 during the notice selection effect.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing display control process processing in main processing executed by the effect control CPU 111 mounted on the effect control board 80. In this embodiment, the display control process is executed by an interrupt process executed every 2 ms. In the display control process process, any one of steps S800 to S806 is performed according to the value of the display control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed.

  Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not an effect control command (variation pattern command) has been received by the command reception interrupt process. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a flag (variation pattern reception flag) indicating that a variation pattern command has been received is set. The variation pattern reception flag is set when it is confirmed by the command analysis process executed in the interrupt process in the main process executed by the effect control CPU 111 that the effect control command designated by the change pattern has been received. .

  Effect setting process (step S801): Stop symbols for special symbols 9a to 9c are set based on the received command (special symbol designation command) for designating stop symbols for special symbols 9a to 9c. Further, the fluctuation time based on the received fluctuation pattern command is set in the fluctuation time timer.

  Symbol variation start processing (step S802): Control is performed so that the variation of the special symbols 9a to 9c is started. Also, a variable time timer is started. In addition, when performing a notice selection effect, it controls so that a notice selection effect is started.

  Symbol variation processing (step S803): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern, and monitors the end of the variation time. Further, the process proceeds to a process of stopping the special symbols 9a to 9c based on the fact that the variable time timer has timed out. Further, when a notice execution command is received, the display unit 9 is controlled to display a notice display.

  Symbol stop waiting setting process (step S804: Derived display means): If an effect control command (deterministic command) for instructing symbol stop is received, the control of stopping the symbol variation and displaying the stopped symbol (determined symbol) is performed. .

  Big hit display processing (step S805): After the fixed symbol is displayed, the control of probability variation big hit display or normal big hit display is performed.

  Big hit game processing (step S806): Control during the big hit game is performed. For example, when an effect control command for display before opening the big winning opening or display when opening the big winning opening is received, display control of the number of rounds is performed.

  9 to 11 are explanatory diagrams showing specific examples of the notice selection effect. As described above, in this embodiment, by changing the display mode of the start memory display area 18 on the display unit 9, a notice display for notifying the player that there is a high possibility of becoming a big hit gaming state is executed. Has the function of In addition, it has a function of executing a notice selection effect that allows the player to select whether or not to execute the notice display using the operation button 10.

  Normally, when the game ball 12 wins the start winning opening 14 (start win), the display color of the start memory display area 18 is changed (for example, the same color as the background color of the display unit 9 is changed to red). In FIG. 9A, the display colors of the start memory display areas 18a, 18b and 18c are changed, indicating that there are three start memories. Then, when the variation of the special symbols 9a to 9c is started in FIG. 9B, the display color of the start memory display area 18c is restored. That is, FIG. 9B to FIG. 9C show that there are two start memories. When a start winning is generated in FIG. 9D, the display color of the start storage display area 18c is changed. Then, when another start prize is generated and it is determined that the notice selection effect is to be executed in the notice setting process (see FIG. 5) (FIG. 9E), the notice pattern fluctuation pattern command is sent from the CPU 56 of the main board 31. (Announcement big hit fluctuation pattern command, notice reach fluctuation pattern command, notice deviation deviation pattern command) is transmitted. The effect control CPU 111 of the effect control board 80 starts the notice selection effect based on the reception of the notice time variation pattern command. That is, by displaying the character image 11 on the display unit 9 and displaying “This is suspicious! Please press the button!”, The target start memory is specified and the player is given a notice selection effect. (FIG. 10F).

  When the operation button 10 is operated by the player within the effective period, that is, before the effective period timer times out in step S182, the operation button 10 is operated in step S184 and the operation button 10 is moved to the main board 31. When an operation signal indicating that an operation has been performed is input, a notice execution command is transmitted from the CPU 56 of the main board 31 to the effect control CPU 111 of the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 111 executes a notice display based on the receipt of the notice execution command. That is, the display mode of the start memory display area 18 (in this case, the start memory display area 18b in FIG. 10F) designated by the character image 11 is a special display mode (in this embodiment, a heart). Then, the variation display of the special symbols 9a to 9c is started (FIG. 10G). Note that the display mode of the start memory display area 18 based on the start memory corresponding to the start memory display area 18b in FIG. 10F, which has become a special display mode by the notice display, starts the variable display based on the start memory. (FIG. 10 (H) to FIG. 11 (K)). In other words, the display mode of the start memory based on the start memory display area 18b that has become a special display mode in FIG. 10 (F) is displayed in the start memory display area 18a with the start memory reduced by one in FIG. 11 (K). However, it is displayed in a special display mode.

  Further, in this embodiment, when a new start prize is generated while the notice display is being executed, it is determined whether or not a predetermined sound is output from the speaker 27. The determination is used when a non-specific determination table used when a start memory determined to be a jackpot gaming state is not included or a start memory determined to be a jackpot gaming state is included. This is performed based on the specific determination table. Note that the rate at which the predetermined sound is output from the speaker 27 in the specific determination table is higher than the rate at which the predetermined sound is output from the speaker 27 in the non-specific determination table. Yes. That is, the ratio of whether or not a predetermined sound is output at the time of starting winning depending on whether or not the start memory that has become a special display mode by the notice display becomes a big hit gaming state when the notice display is executed The determination table is configured so that the two are different. In the case where a predetermined sound is output by winning the start even when the notice display is not executed, a special sound different from the predetermined sound is output when it is determined to output the sound. It may be.

  In FIG. 11L, “picone” is output as the predetermined sound from the speaker 27 based on the determination to output the predetermined sound. The player can grasp that the probability of being in the jackpot gaming state is high by outputting a predetermined sound, and the interest in the jackpot gaming state is improved. Further, even when the notice display is being executed, the player can be directed to execute a game for winning the game ball 12 at the start winning opening 14, and the operating rate can be increased.

  When the operation button 10 is not operated in FIG. 10F, the variable symbols 9a to 9c are started to be displayed based on the expiration of the validity period timer in step S182. In this case, the notice display is not executed. That is, the notice display is started based on the operation of the operation button 10, and if the operation button 10 is not operated (FIG. 10 (G ′) to FIG. 11 (L ′)), the notice is displayed. No display is done. Further, even if a new start prize is generated after the notice selection effect is executed (FIG. 10 (G ′) to FIG. 11 (L ′)), it is not determined whether or not to output a predetermined sound. The determination as to whether or not to output a predetermined sound is made only when a notice display is being executed.

  In this embodiment, the notice display is executed based on the player operating the operation button 10 during the notice selection effect. However, the present invention is not limited to this. . For example, the notice display may be executed even when the player does not operate the operation button 10 in the notice selection effect, and in that case, based on the operation of the operation button 10 by the player. It is also possible to execute a combination of the one that executes the notice display and the one that executes the notice display even when the player does not operate the operation button 10. With this configuration, a plurality of types of notices can be executed.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the notice selection effect is executed in FIG. 10F and the operation button 10 is operated, the result of the notice selection effect is notified until the validity period timer times out in step S182. Display is performed (first embodiment). That is, in FIG. 12A, after the notice selection effect is started and the character image 11 and “This is suspicious! Please press the button!” Are displayed on the display unit 9, the validity period timer times out. If the player operates the operation button 10 before the announcement, a notice execution command is transmitted from the CPU 56 of the main board 31 to the effect control CPU 111 of the effect control board 80, and the effect control CPU 111 receives the notice execution command. Based on this, control is performed so that a display for notifying the result of the notice selection effect is displayed on the display unit 9. In this embodiment, display control of the display unit 9 is performed so that the character image 11 and “changed!” Are displayed on the display unit 9 (FIG. 12B). Then, based on the fact that the validity period timer has timed out in step S182, the variable symbols 9a to c9 are displayed in a variable manner.

  In addition, you may comprise so that the change display of the special symbols 9a-9c may be started based on the operation button 10 being operated within the effective period by the notice selection effect (second embodiment). In this case, the variation time may be shortened by the remaining time of the effective period.

  FIG. 13 shows a timing chart of the fluctuation pattern for executing the notice selection effect. 13A and 13B show a case where the operation button 10 is operated within the effective period in the first embodiment described above, and FIGS. 13C and 13D show the above-described case. This is a case where the operation button 10 is operated in the second embodiment, and FIG. 13E is a case where the operation button 10 is not operated. The effective period of the operation button 10 (the time set in the effective period timer) is T.

  First, the first embodiment will be described. In FIG. 13 (A) and FIG. 13 (B), the timing for starting the notice display and the variable display of the special symbols 9a to 9c is the same. That is, regardless of the timing at which the operation button 10 is operated, the advance notice display and the change display of the special symbols 9a to 9c are started after the validity period T has elapsed since the start of the advance notice selection effect. In FIG. 13A, the operation button 10 is operated at a relatively early stage of the effective period T (when the period t1 has elapsed), and the result of the notice selection effect (the result indicating that the operation of the operation button 10 is effective) is shown. 13B, the operation button 10 is operated at a relatively late stage of the effective period T (when the period t′1 has elapsed), and the result of the notice selection effect (the operation of the operation button 10 is changed). The period for displaying the result indicating that it is valid is shortened. That is, when the timing of operating the operation button 10 is t1 <t′1, the period for displaying the result of the notice selection effect (result indicating that the operation of the operation button 10 is valid) is t2> t′2. Furthermore, t1 + t2 = t1 ′ + t2 ′ = T. Also, in the notice selection effect, for example, the character image 11 shown in FIG. 12A and “This is suspicious! Please press the button!” Are displayed on the display unit 9, and the result of the notice selection effect (operation button 10). For example, the character image 11 shown in FIG. 12B and “changed!” Are displayed.

  The notice display and the change display of the special symbols 9a to 9c are started based on the expiration of the validity period T, and the change display of the special symbols 9a to 9c is stopped based on the time-out of the special symbol process timer. The display result is derived and displayed. At this time, the period t3 during which the special symbols 9a to 9c are variably displayed is constant regardless of the operation timing of the operation button 10. In this way, in the first embodiment, the special symbols 9a to c9 change after the notice selection effect is started by adjusting the period for displaying the result of the notice selection effect according to the operation timing of the operation button 10. The fluctuation time until stopping is constant.

  Next, a second embodiment will be described. In FIG. 13C and FIG. 13D, the timing for starting the notice display and the variation display of the special symbols 9a to 9c differs depending on the timing of operating the operation button 10. That is, based on the operation button 10 being operated, the notice display and the change display of the special symbols 9a to 9c are started.

  The notice display and the change display of the special symbols 9a to 9c are started based on the expiration of the validity period T, and the change display of the special symbols 9a to 9c is stopped based on the time-out of the special symbol process timer. The display result is derived and displayed. At this time, the period t3 during which the special symbols 9a to 9c are variably displayed is constant regardless of the operation timing of the operation button 10.

  In FIG. 13C, the operation button 10 is operated at a relatively early stage of the effective period T (when the period t1 has elapsed), and the variation time from the start of the notice selection effect until the special symbols 9a to 9c stop. Compared to FIG. 13A, it is shorter by t2. In FIG. 13D, the operation button 10 is operated at a relatively late stage of the effective period T (when the t1 ′ period t1 has elapsed) until the special symbol 9a to 9c is stopped after the notice selection effect is started. The fluctuation time is shorter by t2 ′ than that in FIG. That is, by operating the operation button 10 within the effective period T, the fluctuation time is shortened by the remaining time of the effective period T.

  13C and 13D, the special symbols 9a to 9c are started to be displayed immediately after the operation button 10 is operated. However, after the operation button 10 is operated, a predetermined predetermined value is set. You may comprise so that the change display of the special symbols 9a-9c may be started after displaying the determination result of a notice selection effect over a period. In this case, the predetermined period may be determined so that the valid period T and the determination result of the notice selection effect are displayed so as not to exceed the variation time.

  Next, the case where the operation button 10 is not operated within the effective period T in the first embodiment and the second embodiment described above will be described. In FIG. 13 (E), the special symbol 9a to 9c is started to be displayed based on the fact that the notice selection effect is started and the effective period T has elapsed, but the notice display is not performed. As described above, in this embodiment, when the operation button 10 is not operated, the notice display is not performed. Then, based on the fact that the special symbol process timer has timed out, the fluctuation display of the special symbols 9a to 9c is stopped and the display result is derived and displayed.

  As described above, in the first embodiment described above, the variation time from when the notice selection effect is started to when the variation of the special symbols 9a to 9c is stopped is constant regardless of the timing of operating the operation button 10. The change time can be easily managed.

  In this embodiment, the character image 11 is displayed on the display unit 9 to notify the notice selection effect and the decision result of the notice selection effect. It is good also as a structure which uses and alert | reports. For example, the player may be notified by designating the target start memory display area 18 by a movable member provided separately from the display unit 9. In this way, a variety of effects can be achieved by configuring.

  In this embodiment, the operation signal from the operation button 10 is input to the main board 31. However, in the first example in which the variation time is not shortened, the operation signal is sent to the effect control board 80. It is good also as a structure which inputs. With this configuration, the burden on the CPU 56 of the main board 31 can be reduced.

  Further, when the start memory that becomes the big hit gaming state is included, the notice selection effect may be executed without fail. With this configuration, the degree of expectation for the notice selection effect can be increased.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the notice selection effect is executed, the character image 11 is displayed to identify the target start memory and notify the player. You may make it perform the production which specifies the starting memory used as object. For example, based on the operation button 10 being operated, the display mode is changed with respect to each of the start memory display areas 18a to 18d so that the target start memory is specified and the notice display is executed. Good. With this configuration, the player's expectation can be improved. Further, even when the operation button 10 is not operated, an effect that specifies the target start-up memory in the notice selection effect may be performed. With such a configuration, the judgment effect is produced even when the notice display is not executed. This makes it possible to improve the interest of the player.

  In this embodiment, the notice display is always executed based on the player operating the operation button 10 within the effective period. However, the notice is displayed based on the operation button 10 being operated. You may make it determine whether to perform a display. For example, the display unit 9 displays a plurality of images (for example, images of boxes or the like) to which information indicating whether or not to perform the notice display is added, and if any of them is selected, the notice display is executed or not executed. It may be configured so that the player can select with the operation button 10 by setting. By comprising in this way, multiple types of effects can be performed and an interest can be improved.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Ball game machine 8 Variable display apparatus 9 Display part 10 Operation button 11 Character image 14 Start winning opening 15 Variable winning ball apparatus 18 Start memory display area 27 Speaker 31 Main board 55a Numerical data storage buffer 56 CPU
80 Production control board 111 Production control CPU

Claims (1)

A variable display device capable of controlling display of a plurality of types of image information is provided, and the variable display device performs variable display of a plurality of types of identification information each identifiable to derive and display a display result. A gaming machine that controls a specific gaming state advantageous to a player when a predetermined specific display result is derived and displayed,
Operation means that can be operated by the player;
Game control means for controlling the progress of the game;
Display control means for controlling the variable display device based on a command transmitted by the game control means,
The game control means includes
Display result predetermining means for determining whether the display result is the specific display result before the derivation display;
Variable display time determining means for determining a variable display time from the start of variable display of identification information in the variable display device to the display and display of the display result;
Command transmitting means for transmitting to the display control means a command capable of specifying the variable display time determined by the variable display time determining means and the determination result of the display result predetermining means;
The display control means includes
Variable display control means for deriving and displaying a display result by performing variable display of identification information based on a command received from the command transmission means;
Based on a command received from the command transmitting means, a notice effect executing means for executing a notice effect for executing a notice on condition of operation of the operation means,
The display control means derives and displays the display result when the variable display time determined by the variable display time determination means is reached regardless of the operation timing of the operation means by the player;
The notice effect executing means, when executing the notice effect, the notice based on the operation means being operated within an effective period set for a predetermined period after the command transmission by the command sending means. On the other hand, when the operating means is not operated within the effective period, the advance notice is not executed, and a predetermined character image is displayed and notified that the effective period is in effect. A gaming machine.

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