JP2013208499A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine having a reduced program capacity and reduced processing load.SOLUTION: A game control microcomputer compares a random number value (random number value for jackpot determination, random number value for normal symbol prize determination) extracted upon generation of a start prize and a preset determination value with each other, determines a prize (special symbol jackpot, normal symbol prize) based on the coincidence of the values, and controls a variable prize device (special variable prize device, variable prize ball device) to open. When predetermined conditions are satisfied, the variable prize device is controlled to be opened, on the assumption that the random number value is coincident with the determination value (i.e., determined as a jackpot at a probability of 100%), regardless of the random number value.

Description

  The present invention is capable of performing a predetermined game using a game ball, and a plurality of types of special identification that can identify each based on the detection of a game ball in a special start area provided in the game area. The present invention relates to a gaming machine that controls a specific gaming state advantageous to a player when a specific display result is derived and displayed on a special variable display device that performs variable display of information and derives and displays a display result.

  As a gaming machine, a game ball, which is a game medium, is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game ball wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of game balls are prizes (prize balls) ) Is paid to the player. In addition, a variable display unit capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, and the variable winning ball apparatus when the display result of the variable display of the identification information in the variable display unit becomes the specific display result The (ordinary electric accessory) is controlled to an advantageous state (open state) in which a game ball is easy to win, or a gaming state (a state of the gaming machine. More specifically, a state where the gaming machine is controlled). Some are configured to be controlled to a specific game state (big hit game state) and to give a predetermined game value to 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. In other words, or a condition for winning a prize ball is easily established.

  In a pachinko machine, a specific display mode (specific display) determined in advance as a display result of variable display of special symbols (identification information) started in the variable display unit based on the winning of a game ball at the start winning opening When the result is derived and displayed, a “big hit” occurs. Note that the derivation display is to stop and display a symbol (excluding stop before so-called re-variation). When the big hit occurs, for example, the big winning opening (one of the winning areas) is opened a predetermined number of times (for example, 15 times), and the game shifts to a big hit gaming state where the hit ball is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. That is, winning is likely to occur in the big hit gaming state, and the player can acquire a large number of winning balls. An opening time (for example, 29.5 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. In addition, hereinafter, the opening period of each big prize opening is referred to as a round.

  Further, in the variable display device, the symbols other than the symbol that becomes the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) are continuously stopped for a predetermined time, and are stopped, swung, There is a possibility that a big hit will occur before the final result is displayed due to the state of scaling or deformation, or multiple symbols changing synchronously with the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol being switched An effect performed in a continuing state (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. Then, when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the variable display device is not a specific display result, it becomes “out of” and the variability display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  By the way, the game machine is adjusted so that the ball-out rate (the ratio of the number of game balls paid out to the number of game balls hit on the game board per unit time) falls within a predetermined range. There is something. Patent Document 1 is configured to adjust the pitch rate by performing a big hit lottery using a probability table in which a big hit is generated with a probability of 100% when the pitch rate falls below a predetermined value. A game machine is described.

Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2004-417 (paragraphs 0144-0148, FIG. 8)

  The gaming machine described in Patent Document 1 is configured to forcibly generate a big hit when the turnout rate falls below a predetermined value for the purpose of adjusting the turnout rate. Thus, it is not intended to reduce the program capacity for performing game control or to facilitate the determination process.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can reduce the program capacity and the processing load.

  The gaming machine according to the present invention can perform a predetermined game using a game ball, and in a special start area (for example, the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14) provided in the game area. When the specific display result is derived and displayed on the special variable display device that variably displays a plurality of types of special identification information that can be identified based on the detection of the game ball and derives and displays the display result, for the player A gaming machine that is controlled to an advantageous specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state based on a big jackpot of a special symbol), which is provided in a special starting area, a closed state in which no gaming ball is won and an open state in which the gaming ball is easy to win. A variable winning device (for example, the variable winning ball device 15) that can be changed to a numerical value, and a numerical value updating means (for example, a random number circuit 503) that updates a numerical value of a random number (for example, a random number for determination per normal symbol). A part for executing the random number update process or step S24 in the game control microcomputer 560 and a numerical value extraction means for extracting a random number value when a game ball is detected in the normal start area provided in the game area (for example, , A part for executing step S113 in the game control microcomputer 560) and an ordinary variable display device (for example, an ordinary symbol) capable of variably displaying a plurality of types of ordinary identification information (for example, an ordinary symbol) that can be distinguished from each other. The variable display control means (for example, game control) for starting the variable display of the normal identification information and deriving and displaying the display result on the normal variable display device based on the display 10) and the game ball detected in the normal start area Portion for executing steps S22 and S34 in the microcomputer 560, and numerical values Based on the fact that the numerical value of the random number extracted by the output means indicates a predetermined value (for example, a hit determination value set in the normal hit determination table) (for example, steps S93 and S96). And the variable winning device is opened after the display result is derived and displayed on the normal variable display device (for example, a variable winning ball). The open / close control means (for example, the game control microcomputer 560) that can be controlled by the device 15 to perform the open / close operation of the variable winning ball device 15 performs the process of step S97, and the step based on Y of step S153. The opening / closing control means is capable of predicting the random number value regardless of the random number value extracted by the numerical value extracting means. The special opening control means for executing the special opening control for controlling the variable prize-winning device to be in an open state as an indication of the predetermined value (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, the hit set in the normal figure determination table) The judgment value is set to all the values in the update range of the random number for normal symbol determination, and the winning probability of the normal symbol is set to 100%. Part).

  In addition, the gaming machine according to the present invention can play a predetermined game using a game ball, and a special start area (for example, a first start winning opening 13 and a second start winning opening 14 provided in the game area). ), When a specific display result is derived and displayed on a special variable display device that variably displays a plurality of types of special identification information that can be identified based on the detection of a game ball and displays the display result. A gaming machine that is controlled to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player (for example, a big hit gaming state based on a big jackpot of a special symbol), and is provided in a special starting area, and a closed state where a gaming ball does not win and a gaming ball is easy to win. A variable winning device (for example, a variable winning ball device 15) that can be changed to an open state, and a variable winning device based on the detection of a game ball in a normal start area provided in the game area. Specific data setting means for setting specific data for release (for example, a flag for a normal figure) (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, a process for setting a flag for a normal figure according to the passage of a gate (step S124A)) A portion to be executed), a normal variable display device (for example, the normal symbol display 10) capable of executing variable display of a plurality of types of normal identification information (for example, normal symbols) that can be identified, and a game in the normal start area Based on the detection of the ball, the variable display control means for starting the variable display of the normal identification information on the normal variable display device and deriving and displaying the display result (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, steps S22 and S34 are performed). The display is usually displayed on the variable display device based on the specific data that has been set. Open / close control means (for example, an effect control microcomputer) that can control the variable winning device to an open state (for example, an operating state of the variable winning ball device 15 in which the variable winning ball device 15 opens and closes) after the result is derived and displayed. 100, the opening / closing control means always controls the variable winning device to the open state by setting specific data in the specific data setting means. Special release control means for executing the special release control (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, in the game control microcomputer 560, in the storage area corresponding to the gate passing memory number based on the gate passing, It may be configured to include a process for storing the specified value (part for executing step S113A). Yes.

  Furthermore, the gaming machine according to the present invention can play a predetermined game using a game ball, and a special start area (for example, a first start winning opening 13 and a second start winning opening 14 provided in the game area). ), When a specific display result is derived and displayed on a special variable display device that variably displays a plurality of types of special identification information that can be identified based on the detection of a game ball and displays the display result. A gaming machine that is controlled to a specific gaming state advantageous to the player (for example, a big hit gaming state based on a big jackpot of a special symbol), and is provided in a special starting area, and a closed state where a gaming ball does not win and a gaming ball is easy to win. Variable display of a variable winning device (for example, variable winning ball device 15) that can be changed to an open state and a plurality of types of normal identification information (for example, special symbols or normal symbols) that can be distinguished from each other. A normal variable display device (for example, a normal symbol display 10) and a variable display of normal identification information in the normal variable display device based on the detection of a game ball in a normal start area provided in the game area. Display control means for starting and displaying the display result (for example, the part for executing steps S22 and S34 in the game control microcomputer 560) and the variable prize after the display result is derived and displayed on the normal variable display device Opening / closing control means (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, the stop symbol of the normal symbol can be controlled in the open state (for example, the operation process of the variable winning ball device 15 in which the variable winning ball device 15 performs the opening / closing operation). A portion for executing the processing of step S104 after the derivation display), and the open / close control means allows the normal identification information. Special opening control means for executing special opening control for controlling the variable winning device to the open state based on the display result of the display being derived and displayed (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, the hit determination based on the passage of the gate) It may be configured to include a portion that always executes step S104 without performing the processing of (step S125) or checking the usual figure flag (step S153) (see FIG. 71).

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, a variable winning device that is provided in the special start area and can be changed between a closed state in which no game ball is won and an open state in which the game ball is easy to win, and a numerical value updating means for updating the numerical value of the random number And a numerical value extracting means for extracting a numerical value of a random number when a game ball is detected in a normal start area provided in the game area, and a normal that can execute variable display of a plurality of types of normal identification information that can identify each Based on the variable display device, the variable display control means for starting the variable display of the normal identification information and deriving and displaying the display result on the normal variable display device based on the detection of the game ball in the normal start area, and the numerical value extraction means Based on the fact that the extracted random number value indicates a predetermined value, the variable winning device is opened after the display result is normally displayed on the variable display device. Controllable open / close control means, and the open / close control means always opens the variable prize winning device assuming that the random number value indicates a predetermined value regardless of the random number value extracted by the numerical value extraction means. Since the configuration includes special opening control means for executing special opening control to control, the processing itself corresponding to the case where the extracted random number value does not indicate a predetermined value (when it is out of date) becomes unnecessary. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the program capacity and the processing load.

  A variable winning device provided in a special starting area that can be changed between a closed state in which no gaming ball is won and an open state in which the gaming ball is easy to win, and that a gaming ball has been detected in the normal starting area provided in the gaming area Specific data setting means for setting specific data for opening the variable winning device based on the above, a normal variable display device capable of performing variable display of a plurality of types of normal identification information that can be distinguished from each other, and a normal starting area Based on the fact that the variable display control means for starting the variable display of the normal identification information and deriving and displaying the display result on the normal variable display device based on the detection of the game ball and the specific data are set, An opening / closing control means capable of controlling the variable prize-winning device to an open state after the display result is derived and displayed on the variable display device, and the opening / closing control means includes a specific data setting If the special opening control means for executing the special opening control for controlling the variable prize-winning device to the open state by surely setting the specific data is included, the random number itself becomes unnecessary. The processing necessary for the determination (for example, random number update processing, hit determination processing, etc.) and data for executing the processing (for example, the determination table, counter, etc.) are also unnecessary, reducing the program capacity and processing load. Can be reduced.

  A variable winning device that is provided in a special start-up area and can be changed between a closed state where game balls do not win and an open state where game balls are easy to win, and a variable display of multiple types of normal identification information that can be distinguished from each other. Variable display device, and a variable display that starts variable display of normal identification information and derives and displays a display result based on the detection of a game ball in a normal start area provided in the game area A control means and an opening / closing control means capable of controlling the variable winning device to an open state after the display result is derived and displayed on the ordinary variable display device, and the opening / closing control means derives the display result of the variable display of the normal identification information. If it is configured to include special opening control means for executing the special opening control for controlling the variable winning device to the open state based on the displayed information, the random number itself is not required. The processing required for making a hit determination using random numbers (for example, random number update processing, hit determination processing, etc.) and data for executing these processing (for example, a determination table, a counter, etc.) are also unnecessary, and the program capacity Can be reduced and the processing load can be reduced.

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 which shows the circuit structural example of a relay board | substrate, an effect control board | substrate, a lamp driver board | substrate, and an audio | voice output board | substrate. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the main process which the microcomputer for game control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol process process. FIG. 38E illustrates an effect control command signal line. It is a timing diagram showing the relationship between an 8-bit control signal and an INT signal constituting a control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of an effect control command. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a fluctuation pattern. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit determination process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a big hit determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a big hit classification determination table. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol change process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a special symbol stop process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a big prize opening opening pre-processing. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process during big prize opening opening. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process after a special winning opening opening. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a jackpot end process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a normal symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal hit determination process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the common figure determination table. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a normal symbol fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a normal symbol fluctuation | variation process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a normal symbol stop process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the open | release pattern of a variable winning ball apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a normal electric accessory operating process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the bit allocation example of the input port in the microcomputer for game control. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of the payout control signal. It is a block diagram which shows the signal line etc. which are used for transmission / reception of a payout control signal. It is a timing diagram which shows an example of how to output a payout control signal. It is explanatory drawing which shows the buffer used by switch processing. It is a flowchart which shows a switch process. It is a flowchart which shows a prize ball process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a prize ball number table. It is a flowchart which shows a prize ball number addition process. It is a flowchart which shows a prize ball control process. It is a flowchart which shows an abnormal winning notification process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the main process which the microcomputer for production control performs. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a command reception buffer. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of production control process processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a process table. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a variation pattern command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a decoration design change start process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process during decoration design change. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a decoration design change stop process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a big hit game transfer process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a jackpot display process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a process during a round. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a post-round process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a big hit end effect process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the alerting | reporting screen displayed on a variable display apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows alerting | reporting control processing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of the condition of the display effect in a variable display apparatus, and the sound effect by a speaker. 10 is a flowchart showing special symbol normal processing in the second embodiment. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a jackpot determination table according to Embodiment 2. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing special symbol variation pattern setting processing in the second embodiment. 6 is a flowchart showing a normal symbol process in the second embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a common hit determination process according to the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a common figure determination table according to the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing random numbers in the third embodiment. 12 is a flowchart showing normal symbol process processing in the third embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing normal symbol normal processing in the third embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing a normal symbol stop process in the fourth embodiment. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a difference in processing between the third embodiment and the fourth embodiment.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine as viewed from the front. In the following embodiments, a pachinko gaming machine will be described as an example. However, the gaming machine according to the present invention is not limited to a pachinko gaming machine, and can be applied to other gaming machines such as a slot machine.

  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) installed to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts attached to them (excluding a game board described later). Is a structure including

  As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko gaming 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. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, an extra ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hit ball supply tray 3 and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for launching the game balls are provided. 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.

  Near the center of the game area 7 variably display a plurality of types of decorative decorations that can be identified based on the establishment of a predetermined starting condition (for example, the hitting of the hit ball at the gate 32). A variable display device 9 for deriving and displaying the display result is arranged. In this embodiment, the variable display device 9 is constituted by a liquid crystal display device (LCD), and is configured such that decorative symbols are displayed and controlled in three display areas (decorative symbol display areas) of left, middle, and right. Yes. The variable display device 9 that performs variable display of decorative symbols is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. Note that winning means that a game ball has entered a predetermined area such as a winning opening. Deriving and displaying the display result means that the symbol is stopped and displayed (except for a temporary stop before so-called re-variation).

  In this embodiment, the symbols “0” to “9” are used as decorative symbols displayed in the three display areas of the variable display device 9. During variable display (fluctuation) of decorative symbols, in principle, decorative symbols “0” to “9” are displayed in numerical order.

  A special symbol display (special symbol display device) 8 that variably displays a special symbol as identification information is provided on the variable display device 9. In this embodiment, the special symbol display 8 is realized by a simple and small display (for example, a 7-segment LED) capable of variably displaying three numbers “3”, “5”, and “7”, for example. Yes. The special symbol display 8 may be configured to variably display more types of numbers such as “0” to “99” in order to make it difficult for the player to grasp a specific stop symbol. The special symbol display 8 that performs variable display of the special symbols is controlled by a game control microcomputer mounted on the game control board.

  At the bottom of the variable display device 9, four displays for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14, that is, the number of reserved memories (also referred to as start memory or start winning memory). A special symbol storage display 18 is provided. Every time there is an effective start prize, the display color of one display is changed. Each time the variable display on the special symbol display 8 is started, the display color of one display is restored. In this example, since the special symbol display 8 and the special symbol hold memory display 18 are provided separately, the number of hold memories can be displayed even during variable display. In the display area of the variable display device 9, a special symbol reserved storage display area including four display areas for displaying the number of reserved memories may be provided. Further, in this embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of reserved memories is 4, but the upper limit value may be a larger value. Further, the upper limit value may be changed according to the gaming state.

  Below the variable display device 9, there is formed a first start winning opening 13 through which a game ball can be won. 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. Although not shown in FIG. 1, a plurality of nails are arranged on the game board 6 at a narrow interval above (directly above) the first start winning opening 13. Therefore, in this embodiment, it is difficult to win a game ball in the first start winning opening 13 (almost no game ball wins the first start winning opening 13).

  In addition, as long as it is difficult to win a game ball in the first start winning opening 13, the first starting winning prize is not limited to a configuration in which a plurality of nails are arranged at narrow intervals immediately above the first starting winning opening 13. The mouth 13 itself may have a shape that makes it difficult for a game ball to win. For example, a lid may be formed in the opening of the first start winning opening 13 so that only the right side has an interval as large as the diameter of the game ball. In this case, when the game ball is launched into the left area of the game area 7 (so-called left-handed and generally left-handed in normal games), the game ball does not win the first start winning opening 13, When a game ball is launched into the right area of the game area 7 (when a so-called right strike is performed), there is a possibility that the game ball will win the first start winning opening 13.

  Further, a second start winning opening 14 is formed immediately below the first starting winning opening 13. The second start winning opening 14 is provided with a variable winning ball apparatus 15 that opens and closes. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, no gaming ball is won in the second starting winning port 14, and when the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the gaming ball can be won in the second starting winning port 14. . The variable winning ball device 15 is opened and closed by a solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, it becomes easier for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 (easy to start winning), which is advantageous to the player. The game ball that has won the second start winning opening 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the second start opening switch 14a.

  The first start winning opening 13 is a winning opening where it is difficult to win a game ball. However, since the start winning is generated when the game ball wins, the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14 The role is the same.

  A special variable winning device 20 that is opened by a solenoid 21 in the big hit gaming state is provided below the second start winning opening 14. The special variable winning device 20 includes an opening / closing plate and forms a large winning opening. The game ball that has entered the big prize opening is detected by the count switch 23.

  A normal symbol display 10 is provided directly above the variable display device 9. The normal symbol display 10 variably displays a plurality of types of identification information (for example, “◯” and “x”) called normal symbols.

  Gates 32 are formed on the left and right sides of the variable winning ball apparatus 15. The game ball winning the gate 32 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the gate switch 32a.

  When a game ball wins the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. In this embodiment, variable display is performed by alternately lighting the left and right lamps (a symbol can be visually recognized when the lamp is lit). For example, if the left lamp is lit when the variable display ends, 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 changes from a disadvantageous state to the player (open state) from a disadvantageous state to the player when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, there is provided a normal symbol hold storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls (the number of gate passages) that have passed through the gate 32. Each time there is a game ball passing to the gate 32, the normal symbol hold memory display 41 increments the LED to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one. In this embodiment, the upper limit value of the number of gate passages is 4. However, the upper limit value may be larger. Further, the upper limit value may be changed according to the gaming state.

  In this embodiment, the variable display device 9 performs variable display of a decorative symbol as a symbol for decoration (for production) during the variable symbol display period of the normal symbol by the normal symbol indicator 10. That is, the variable display of the normal symbol by the normal symbol display 10 and the variable display of the decorative symbol by the variable display device 9 are synchronized. Note that the normal symbol display 10 that performs variable display of normal symbols is controlled by a game control microcomputer mounted on the game control board.

  The game board 6 is provided with a plurality of winning holes 29, 30, 33, 39, and winning of game balls to the winning holes 29, 30, 33, 39 is performed by winning hole switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a, respectively. Detected. Each winning opening 29, 30, 33, 39 constitutes a winning area provided in the game board 6 as an area for accepting game balls and allowing winning. Note that the gate 32, the first start winning opening 13, the second starting winning opening 14, and the big winning opening also constitute a winning area that accepts a game ball and allows winning. A decorative lamp 25 blinkingly displayed during the game is provided around the left and right of the game area 7 of the game board 6, and an out port 26 into which a hit ball that has not won a prize is taken in at the bottom. 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 top frame lamp 28a, a left frame lamp 28b, and a right frame lamp 28c are provided. Further, a decoration LED is installed around each structure (such as a big prize opening) in the game area 7. The top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, the right frame lamp 28c, and the decorative LED are examples of a decorative light emitter provided in the gaming machine.

  Also, below the left speaker 27 is provided a prize ball LED 51 that is lit while paying out the prize ball, and below the right speaker 27 is provided a ball cut LED 52 that is lit when the supply ball is cut. Yes. Further, a prepaid card unit that enables lending of a ball by inserting a prepaid card is installed adjacent to the pachinko gaming machine 1 (not shown).

  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. If the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, the normal symbol variable display can be started (for example, the end of the opening operation of the variable winning ball device 15 or the end of the previous variable display). Ordinary symbol hit determination is performed (see step S125). In this embodiment, the probability that the normal symbol is a hit (ordinary symbol winning probability) is set to 1/150 when the gaming state is the normal gaming state, and the gaming state is a probable change state (a normal symbol hit) When the probability is a gaming state advantageous to a player having a higher probability than the normal gaming state (also referred to as a probability variation state), it is set to 1/1 (that is, 100%). Then, the normal symbol display 10 starts variable display (variation) of the normal symbol, and the variable display device 9 starts variable display of the decorative symbol. If the normal symbol variable display cannot be started, the gate passing storage number for the normal symbol holding storage display 41 is increased by one.

  The variable display of the normal symbol on the normal symbol display 10 and the decorative symbol on the variable display device 9 stops when a predetermined time has elapsed. If it is determined that the normal symbol is hit, the stop symbol of the normal symbol becomes the winning symbol. At this time, the stop symbol of the decorative symbol is also a winning symbol. When the stop symbol at the time of the stop becomes a winning symbol, the variable winning ball device 15 repeatedly executes the opening / closing operation a predetermined number of times. That is, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened and opened, and the operation of closing and closing after a predetermined time has passed is repeated a predetermined number of times. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, it becomes easy for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 (easy to start winning). Normally, five or more game balls (more than the upper limit of the number of reserved symbols stored in special symbols) win the second start winning opening 14 during the opening / closing operation of the variable winning ball apparatus 15.

  When a game ball wins the second start winning opening 14 and is detected by the second start opening switch 14a, a special symbol jackpot determination is performed based on the start winning (see step S56). In this embodiment, the probability of winning a special symbol (special symbol winning probability) is set to 95/100 (that is, 95%) when the gaming state is the normal gaming state, and when the gaming state is the probability variation state. Is set to 1/1 (ie 100%). In this way, since the winning probability of the special symbol is set to a very high probability, it is determined that it will be a big hit with a very high probability regardless of whether the gaming state is a normal gaming state or a probability variation state. . When the big hit is determined, the type of the big hit (whether the big hit is a normal big hit or a probable big hit) is determined (see step S59). In this embodiment, the probability variation jackpot is determined with a probability of 9/10 (that is, a probability of 90%).

  The special symbol starts to change based on the winning of the game ball at the second start winning port 14, stops after a predetermined time, and the stop symbol is derived and displayed. When it is determined that the big hit is made in the big hit determination, the special symbol display unit 8 derives and displays the big hit symbol as a special symbol stop symbol and shifts to the big hit gaming state. When the jackpot game state is entered, the jackpot game is continued for two rounds. In this embodiment, until a predetermined period (for example, 29.5 seconds) elapses after the special variable prize-winning device 20 is opened, or until a predetermined number (for example, one) of hitting balls wins the big prize opening. One round in the jackpot game. Note that the opening period (round period) of the special variable winning device 20 is arbitrary, and may be a period of 5 seconds or the like.

  If the big hit is a probable big hit, the gaming state is shifted to the probable state when the big hit game is finished. When the gaming state is in the probable state, the winning probability of the normal symbol is 1/1, so that a winning game ball wins the gate 32. Then, the opening / closing operation of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is executed, the game ball wins the second start winning opening 14, and the big hit determination and the big hit type determination are performed. When the gaming state is a probable change state, the winning probability of the special symbol is also 1/1, so that the big hit determination is always determined to be a big hit. Therefore, the game state is shifted to the big hit gaming state.

  When the big hit is the normal big hit, the gaming state is shifted to the normal gaming state when the big hit game is finished. When the gaming state is the normal gaming state, the winning probability of the normal symbol is 1/150, so even if a game ball wins the gate 32, it is unlikely that the normal symbol hit determination will be a hit. Thus, it becomes difficult for the variable winning ball apparatus 15 to be opened and closed. As a result, the winning of the game ball to the second start winning opening 14 is difficult to occur, and it is difficult to shift to the big hit gaming state.

  As described above, in this embodiment, in the normal game state, the probability that a normal symbol is hit is low, but once a normal symbol is hit, it becomes a probable big hit with a very high probability, and further a big hit game. After the completion of the process, the state is shifted to the probability change state. As a result, normal symbol hits and special symbol probable big hits occur continuously. Note that the jackpot game is continued only for two rounds, and when one game ball is won in the big prize opening, one round is completed, so the number of winning balls for one big hit is small.

  Next, the stop symbol of the normal symbol, the stop symbol of the special symbol, and the stop symbol of the decorative symbol will be described.

(1) Stop symbol for normal symbol:
As described above, the normal symbols variably displayed on the normal symbol display 10 are “◯” and “X”. And “◯” is a winning symbol, and “X” is a missing symbol.

(2) Special design stop design:
As described above, the special symbols variably displayed on the special symbol display 8 are “3”, “5”, and “7”. Of these, “5” is a loss symbol, “7” is a probability variation symbol (big hit symbol that causes a probability variation big hit), and “3” is a big probability symbol that causes a non-probability variable symbol (a non-probable variation big hit (normally big hit)). ).

(3) Decorative design stop pattern:
As described above, the left, middle and right decorative symbols variably displayed on the variable display device 9 are “0” to “9”, respectively. Here, the off-design symbol is a symbol (for example, “358” or the like) in which the left, middle, and right ornament symbols are not aligned with the same symbol. Note that although the left and right decorative symbols are aligned in the same pattern (although it is a reach), the state in which only the decorative symbols in the middle are not aligned is also an outlier.

  The decorative symbol hit symbol is a symbol in a state where the left, middle, and right decorative symbols are aligned in the same symbol. Specifically, “000”, “111”, “222”, “333”, “444”, “555”, “666”, “777”, “888”, “999”.

  In this embodiment, the stop symbol of the normal symbol and the stop symbol of the decorative symbol correspond to each other, and when the stop symbol of the normal symbol becomes a disjoint symbol, the stop symbol of the decorative symbol becomes a disjoint symbol. When the stop symbol becomes a hit symbol, the decorative symbol stop symbol also becomes a hit symbol.

  Next, the reach display mode (reach) will be described. The reach display mode (reach) in this embodiment is a variable display (variable display) for decorative symbols that have not yet stopped when the stopped decorative symbols constitute a part of the winning symbols. And all or part of the decorative symbols are in a state of being variably displayed synchronously while constituting all or part of the winning symbols.

  For example, in the left, right, and right display areas of the variable display device 9, the left and right display areas are displayed in a state in which a decorative symbol (for example, “7”) that is a part of the winning symbol is stopped and displayed. The display area is still in a variable display state, and all or some of the symbols in the display area are in contact with each other to form a variable or synchronous display (for example, a variable display device) 9 is a reach display mode or reach, in which the variable display is performed on all of the left, middle, and right display areas in FIG. 9 and the variable display is always performed in a state where the same symbols are aligned.

  In addition, during the reach, an unusual performance is performed with a lamp or sound. The effect and the reach display mode in the variable display device 9 are called reach effects. Further, in the case of reach, a character (an effect display imitating a person or the like, which is different from a design (decoration design etc.)) or a background display mode (for example, color) of the variable display device 9 is displayed. May be changed.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. 2 also shows the payout control board 37, the 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 include the RAM 55 in addition to at least the CPU 56, and the ROM 54 may be external or internal. 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.

  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.

  Also, an input driver circuit for supplying detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a and 39a to the game control microcomputer 560. 58 is also mounted on the main board 31. Further, an output circuit that drives a solenoid 16 for opening and closing the variable winning ball device 15 and a solenoid 21 for opening and closing the special variable winning ball device 20 (opening and closing plate) that forms a big winning opening according to a command from the game control microcomputer 560. 59 is also mounted on the main board 31.

  In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 includes a special symbol display 8 that variably displays special symbols, a normal symbol display 10 that variably displays normal symbols, a special symbol hold memory display 18, and a normal symbol hold memory display 41. Perform display control.

  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 receives the effect control command from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. The display control of the variable display device 9 that receives and variably displays the decorative design is performed.

  Further, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the decorative lamp 25 provided on the game board via the lamp driver board 35, and the ceiling frame provided on the frame side. Display control of the lamp 28 a, left frame lamp 28 b, right frame lamp 28 c, prize ball lamp 51, and out-of-ball lamp 52 is performed, and sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled via the audio 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 is equipped with an effect control microcomputer 100 including an effect control CPU 101 and a RAM (not shown). The RAM may be externally attached. 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 variable display device 9 based on the effect control command.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the variable 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. The VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the variable 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 variable display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols, etc. (including decorative designs), 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 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, a signal for driving the lamp is input to the lamp driver 352 via the input driver 351. The lamp driver 352 amplifies a signal for driving the lamp and supplies the amplified signal to each lamp provided on the frame side such as the top frame lamp 28a, the left frame lamp 28b, and the right frame lamp 28c. Further, it is supplied to a decorative lamp 25 provided on the frame 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 indicating the sound effect or sound output mode in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, a decorative symbol variation period).

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

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, the interrupt mode is set to interrupt mode 2 (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set to the stack pointer (step S3). After initialization of the built-in device (CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port), which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits)) is performed (step S4), the RAM is accessible (Step S5). In 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 of the 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 a normal initialization process (steps S10 to S15, including S44 and S45).

  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.

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

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

  Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (step S43). Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

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

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). The RAM clear process initializes predetermined data (for example, count value data of a counter for generating a big hit determination random number) to 0, but is initialized to an arbitrary value or a predetermined value. You may make it do. Alternatively, 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 big hit determination random number) 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 of steps S11 and S12, for example, a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol buffer, a total prize ball number storage buffer, a special symbol process flag, an award ball flag, a ball out flag, and a payout stop An initial value is set to a flag such as a flag for selectively performing processing according to the control state.

  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 initialization control microcomputer 100 receives the initialization designation command, the variable display device 9 performs screen display for notifying that the control of the gaming machine has been initialized, that is, initialization notification.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets an abnormality notification prohibition flag (step S44) and sets a value corresponding to the prohibition period value in the stop period timer (step S45). The prohibition period value is a value indicating a period during which an abnormal winning notification described later is prohibited. The abnormality notification prohibition flag is a flag indicating that notification of abnormal winning is prohibited, and is maintained in the set state until the stop period timer times out. Therefore, the start of the abnormal winning notification is prohibited for a predetermined period after the initialization notification is started in the variable display device 9.

  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 (big hit determination random number).

  In step S15, the CPU 56 sets a register of the CTC built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every predetermined time (for example, 2 ms). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 2 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 2 ms.

  When the execution of the initialization process (steps S10 to S15) is completed, the CPU 56 repeatedly executes the display random number update process (step S17) and the initial value random number update process (step S18) in the main process. When the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process are executed, the interrupt disabled state is set (step S16). Set (step S19). In this embodiment, the display random number is a random number for determining a variation pattern (variation pattern determination random number), and the display random number update process is a count value of a counter for generating a display random number. Is a process of updating. 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). This is a random number for determination (random 3 initial value determination random number). 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 a variable 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 S35 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 when, for example, a voltage drop monitoring circuit mounted on the power supply board detects a drop 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, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a are input via the input driver circuit 58, These state determinations are performed (switch processing: step S21).

  Next, the CPU 56 executes display control processing for performing display control of the special symbol display 8, the normal symbol display 10, the special symbol hold storage display 18, and the normal symbol hold storage display 41 (step S22). For the special symbol display 8 and the normal symbol display 10, control for outputting a drive signal to each display is executed according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S33 and S34.

  In addition, the CPU 56 detects that a game ball has won the grand prize opening at a time other than the regular time, or has detected that a game ball has won the second start prize opening at a time other than the regular time. In such a case, a process for notifying abnormal winning is performed (step S23: abnormal winning notifying process).

  Next, processing for updating the count value of each counter for generating random numbers for determination such as random numbers for determining jackpot symbols used for game control is performed (determination random number update processing: step S24). 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 S25 and S26).

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1: Determine type of jackpot (for determining jackpot type)
(2) Random 2: Determine the variation pattern of the normal symbol (for variation pattern determination) (3) Random 3: Determine whether to generate a hit based on the normal symbol (for determination per ordinary symbol)
(4) Random 4: Determine initial value of random 3 (for determining random 3 initial value)

  In step S24 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 or initial value random numbers. In order to enhance the game effect, random numbers other than the random numbers (1) to (4) may be used. In this embodiment, the big hit determination random number is a random number generated by the hardware (random number circuit 503) built in the game control microcomputer 560. The big hit determination random number is used as the big hit determination random number. Software random numbers generated based on the program may be used. In this case, it is preferable that the initial value of the big hit determination random number is changed (updated) using a software random number (big hit determination initial value determination random number) for determining the initial value of the big hit determination random number.

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S27). In the special symbol process, corresponding processing is executed in accordance with a special symbol process flag for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special winning award (special variable winning device 20) 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 S28). In the normal symbol process, the CPU 56 executes a corresponding process in accordance with the normal symbol process flag for controlling the normal symbol display 10 and the variable winning ball device 15 in a predetermined order. The CPU 56 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag according to the gaming state.

  In addition, the CPU 56 performs a process of sending an effect control command or the like related to display control of decorative symbols in the variable display device 9 (decorative symbol command control processing: step S29).

  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 S30).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs prize ball processing for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a. Execute (Step S31). Specifically, the payout control is performed in accordance with winning detection based on any one of the first starting port switch 13a, the second starting port switch 14a, the count switch 23, and the winning port switches 29a, 30a, 33a, 39a being turned on. A payout control command (award ball number signal) indicating the number of winning balls is output to a payout control microcomputer mounted on the substrate 37. 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 S32: output processing).

  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 S33). For example, if the variation speed is 1 frame / 0.2 seconds until the end flag is set when the start flag set in the special symbol process is set, the CPU 56, for example, every 0.2 seconds passes. Then, the value of the display control data set in the output buffer is incremented by one. Further, the CPU 56 performs variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 by outputting a drive signal in step S22 according to the display control data set in the output buffer.

  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 S34). 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 S35), and the process is terminated.

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 2 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes of steps S21 to S34 (excluding step S30) 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.

  7 and 8 are flowcharts showing an example of a special symbol process (step S26) program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 mounted on the main board 31. FIG. As described above, in the special symbol process process, a process for controlling the special symbol display 8 and the special variable winning device 20 (big prize opening) is executed.

  When performing the special symbol process, the game control microcomputer 560 includes a first start port switch 13a for detecting that a game ball has won the first start winning port 13 provided in the game board 6. If it is turned on, that is, if a start winning that causes the game ball to win the first start winning opening 13 has occurred (step S311), the reserved memory number (start winning memory number) becomes the upper limit value (held memory number = 4). It is confirmed whether it has reached (step S312).

  When the number of reserved memories does not reach the upper limit (N in step S312), the game control microcomputer 560 extracts software random numbers (big hit type determination random numbers) and random R (big hit determination random numbers), and extracts them. Is stored in the storage area in the reserved storage buffer corresponding to the value of the reserved storage counter as the extracted random number value (step S313). In step S313, the game control microcomputer 560 extracts random 1 as a software random number, and also extracts random R by reading the count value of the random number circuit 503 as a hardware random number. In the reserved storage buffer, the same number of storage areas as the upper limit value of the number of reserved memories is secured. In addition, a counter for generating a big hit type determination random number and the like and a holding storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55. “Formed in RAM” means an area in the RAM.

  Then, the game control microcomputer 560 increments the value of the reserved memory counter indicating the number of reserved memories by 1 (step S314). Although not shown in FIG. 7, when the value of the pending storage counter is incremented by 1, the start prize memory designation command (the start prize memory designation command at this time is that the start prize memory number is determined by the occurrence of the start prize). +1) is transmitted.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560, if the second start port switch 14a for detecting that a game ball has won the second start winning port 14 provided in the game board 6 is turned on, that is, If a start winning that causes the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 has occurred (step S315), it is confirmed whether or not the reserved memory number (start winning memory number) has reached the upper limit value (held memory number = 4). (Step S316).

  When the number of reserved memories has not reached the upper limit (N in step S316), the game control microcomputer 560 extracts software random numbers (big hit type determination random numbers) and random R (big hit determination random numbers), and extracts them. Is stored in the storage area in the reserved storage buffer corresponding to the value of the reserved storage counter as the extracted random number value (step S317). Also in step S317, the game control microcomputer 560 extracts random 1 as a software random number, and also extracts random R by reading the count value of the random number circuit 503 as a hardware random number.

  Then, the game control microcomputer 560 increments the value of the reserved memory counter indicating the number of reserved memories by 1 (step S318). At this time as well, a start winning memory designation command (a start winning memory designation command at this time is a command indicating that the number of start winning memories is incremented by one due to the occurrence of the start winning) is transmitted.

  After that, any one of steps S300 to S307 is performed according to the internal state (specifically, the special symbol process flag values 0 to 6).

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): When the microcomputer 560 for game control is in a state where variable symbol special display can be started, the number of numerical data stored in the reserved memory buffer (the number of reserved memories) is confirmed. The number of numerical data stored in the hold storage buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the hold storage counter. Then, if the count value of the holding storage counter is not 0, it is determined whether or not to make a big hit (whether or not the display result of the variable symbol special display is the specific display result). In the case of a big hit, the big hit flag is set and the type of big hit (non-probable big hit or probable big hit) is determined. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (specifically “1”) according to step S301.

  Special symbol variation pattern setting processing (step S301): After the variable symbol special variable display time (variable time) from the start of the special symbol variable display to the derivation display is set in the special symbol process timer, the special symbol process timer is started. Let In this embodiment, the variation time of the special symbol is a fixed time (that is, the variation pattern of the special symbol is one type). Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (specifically “2”) according to step S302.

  Special symbol variation processing (step S302): When the variation time set in the special symbol variation pattern setting processing elapses (the special symbol process timer set in step S301 times out), the variable symbol display on the special symbol display 8 is stopped. To display the stop symbol. The special symbol process timer is started after the special symbol process time is set in the special symbol process timer. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (specifically “3”) according to step S303.

  Special symbol stop process (step S303): When the symbol stop time set in the special symbol changing process has elapsed, it is confirmed whether or not the big hit flag is set. When the jackpot flag is set, the time from the stop display of the jackpot symbol to the start of the jackpot game (the jackpot display time) is the big prize opening control timer (in this embodiment, the big winning prize control timer is (The same timer as the special symbol process timer is used. Note that the special prize process control timer may be set to a different timer from the special symbol process timer.) Then, the special prize process control timer is started. In addition, the effect control board 80 is provided with an effect control command (fanfare command) for causing the effect control microcomputer 100 to execute a signal effect (fanfare effect) indicating that the jackpot game is started after the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed. Send. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (specifically, “4”) according to step S304. If the big hit flag is not set, the internal state is updated to a value (specifically, “0”) according to step S300.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S304): When the big hit display time has elapsed, control for opening the large winning opening is started. Specifically, the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special variable winning device 20 to open the special winning opening. The number of rounds is counted by a counter. In addition, the execution time (round time) of the special winning opening control process is set in the special winning opening control timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value (specifically “5”) according to step S305. Update.

  Processing for opening a special prize opening (step S305): A process for confirming the closing condition of the special prize opening is performed. When the closing condition of the big prize opening is established, the solenoid 21 is driven to close the special variable winning apparatus 20 and close the big prize opening. In addition, the time (interval time) from the end of the round to the start of the next round is set in the big prize control timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value (specifically, a value corresponding to step S306). Is updated to “6”).

  Post-winner opening process (step S306): When the interval time has elapsed, it is confirmed whether there is a remaining round. If there are remaining rounds, control to open the big prize opening is started. Specifically, the solenoid 21 is driven to open the special variable winning device 20 to open the special winning opening. The number of rounds is counted by a counter. In addition, the execution time (round time) of the special winning opening control process is set in the special winning opening control timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is set to a value (specifically “5”) according to step S305. Update. On the other hand, when all rounds are finished, an effect control command (ending command) for causing the effect control microcomputer 100 to perform an effect (ending effect) for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended is issued. After transmitting to the effect control board 80 and setting the execution time of the big hit end process (big hit end time) in the big prize opening control timer, the internal state is updated to a value (specifically “7”) according to step S307. To do.

  Big hit end process (step S307): A predetermined flag set / reset process for ending the big hit gaming state is performed. Then, the internal state is updated to a value (specifically “0”) according to step S300.

  Next, a method for sending a control command from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100 will be described. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing a signal line of an effect control command transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80. As shown in FIG. 9, in this embodiment, the effect control command is transmitted from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 via the relay board 77 by using eight signal lines of the effect control signals D0 to D7. Further, between the main board 31 and the effect control board 80, a signal line of the effect control INT signal for transmitting the capture signal (effect control INT signal) is also wired.

  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.

  As shown in FIG. 10, 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. Therefore, when viewed from the effect control microcomputer 100, the effect control INT signal corresponds to a signal that triggers the capture of effect control command data.

  The effect control command is sent only once so that the effect control microcomputer 100 can recognize it. In this example, “recognizable” means that the level of the effect control INT signal changes, and that it is sent only once so as to be recognizable means that, for example, each of the first and second bytes of the effect control command data Accordingly, the production control INT signal is output in a pulse shape (rectangular wave shape) only once. The effect control INT signal may have a polarity opposite to that shown in FIG.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of the effect control command sent to the effect control board 80. In this embodiment, the effect control command has a 2-byte configuration. 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 “1”, and the first bit (bit 7) of the EXT data is always “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 the example shown in FIG. 11, commands 8000 (H) to 800D (H) are effect control commands (variation for designating a variation pattern of decorative symbols that are variably displayed on the variable display device 9 in response to variable display of normal symbols. Pattern command). The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the variation start.

  The commands 8C00 (H) to 8C02 (H) are effect control commands for designating the contents of the special symbol stop symbol (display result) in the special symbol indicator 8. In this embodiment, commands 8C00 (H) to 8C02 (H) are referred to as symbol information designation commands or display result commands.

  The command 8C00 (H) is an effect control command (outgoing designation command) for designating that the stop symbol (display result) of the special symbol is determined as the offcoming symbol. Command 8C01 (H) is an effect control command (ordinary big hit designation command) that designates that the stop symbol of the special symbol has been decided as a non-probable variation symbol (that is, a non-probability variation big hit (also referred to as a normal big hit)). ). Command 8C02 (H) is an effect control command that designates that the stop symbol of the special symbol is determined to be a probable variation symbol (that is, that it is determined to be a probable variation big hit).

  The command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (decoration symbol stop designation command, symbol confirmation designation command) for designating stop of variable display (fluctuation) of decoration symbols on the variable display device 9.

  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.

  The command 9F00 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating display during the customer waiting demonstration.

  Command A001 (H) is an effect control command (fanfare designation command) that designates that a big hit game is to be started.

  The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (designating command during opening of a big prize opening) that designates display during a round in a two-round jackpot game. Command A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big prize opening) that designates display after the round (display of the interval between rounds) in the two round jackpot game. Note that the number of rounds displayed in “XX” is set.

  Command A301 (H) is an effect control command (ending designation command) that designates that the big hit game is to end.

  The command C0XX (H) is an effect control command (start winning memory designation command) for designating the number of starting winning memories shown by XX.

  Command D001 (H) is an effect control command (abnormal winning notification designation command) for instructing abnormal winning notification.

  When the effect control microcomputer 100 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, it corresponds to the contents shown in FIG. 11. The display state of the variable display device 9 is changed, the display state of the lamp is changed, and the sound number data is output to the sound output board 70.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a variation pattern used in this embodiment. In FIG. 12, “EXT” indicates the second byte of EXT data in the effect control command having a two-byte structure. “Time” indicates a normal symbol variation time (variable display period of identification information).

  In this example, each variation pattern of the normal symbol is the variation pattern when the stop symbol of the decorative symbol is “out of symbol” (the variation pattern dedicated to the loss), and the stop symbol of the decorative symbol is “winning symbol” And the fluctuation pattern (variation pattern dedicated to hits).

  The fluctuation pattern dedicated to the outage includes a fluctuation pattern of a normal fluctuation without a reach in a normal gaming state, a fluctuation pattern with a normal reach (simple reach mode), a fluctuation pattern with a long reach, and a super reach A. It is divided into a variation pattern, a variation pattern with super reach B, and a variation pattern with super reach C. In this embodiment, since it is always determined to be a win when the probability variation state is in effect, the variation pattern dedicated to loss is always selected when in the normal gaming state.

  The variation pattern dedicated to winning is a variation pattern with a special display state in the probability variation state (short state during probability variation), a variation pattern with normal reach in the normal gaming state, and a variation pattern with long reach in the normal gaming state. A variation pattern with super reach A in a normal gaming state, a variation pattern with super reach B in a normal gaming state, a variation pattern with super reach C in a normal gaming state, and a normal gaming state Is divided into a variation pattern accompanied by super reach D in the normal game state and a variation pattern accompanied by super reach E in the normal gaming state. In this embodiment, only the variation pattern in the special display state is selected when the probability variation state is selected, and the other variation pattern dedicated for hitting is selected when in the normal gaming state. In this embodiment, when the gaming state shifts to the probability changing state, the variable display device 9 does not execute the variation of the decorative symbol synchronized with the variation of the normal symbol, and the control during the opening / closing operation of the variable winning ball device 15 is performed. Depending on the display content (for example, a display of a directive such as “Let me win the electric chew at the bottom of the screen!”) Or a big hit effect is executed. Therefore, the variation pattern in the special display state is different from other variation patterns dedicated to hits, and is not a variation pattern for starting the variation of the normal symbol. It is specified that the variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to be controlled to a display state during the opening / closing operation and a display state during the big hit. In addition, the variation pattern of the special display state may be provided with a plurality of types having different variation times. When the gaming state is in the probabilistic state, the effect control microcomputer 100 gives priority to the effect control command related to the special symbol even when the change pattern command in the special display state is received, and changes the display state of the variable display device 9. You may make it control. Even in the normal gaming state, the display state of the variable display device 9 may be controlled by giving priority to the effect control command related to the special symbol.

  As described above, according to the variation pattern shown in FIG. 12, when it is determined that the normal symbol is out of the normal gaming state, the variation pattern of normal variation (“00H”), the variation pattern of normal reach (“02H )), Long reach variation pattern (“03H”), super reach A to C variation patterns (“04H” to “06H”) are selected, and it is determined that the normal symbol is hit in the normal gaming state If selected, one of the normal reach fluctuation pattern (“07H”), the long reach fluctuation pattern (“08H”), and the super reach A to E fluctuation patterns (“09H” to “0DH”) is selected. In the probability variation state, the variation pattern of normal variation during probability variation (“01H”) is always selected.

  However, the configuration is not limited to such a variation pattern. For example, the normal variation state pattern (“01H”) shown in FIG. 12 is eliminated, and the variation pattern in the probability variation state (normal symbol is always determined to be hit in the probability variation state) Sometimes, a variation pattern having a variation time shorter than the variation pattern (“07H” to “0DH”) when the normal symbol is determined to be a hit may be provided.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal processing, the game control microcomputer 560 is in a state in which the variation of the special symbol can be started (the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating step S300 (specifically “0”)). In other words, in other words, when the special symbol display 8 does not display the variation of the special symbol and is not in the big hit game (step S51), the number of start winning memories (the number of reserved memories) is confirmed ( Step S52). Specifically, the count value of the hold storage counter is confirmed.

  If the starting winning memory number is not 0, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = 1 is read out and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S53), and the starting winning memory number 1 (the value of the hold storage counter) is decremented by 1 and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S54). That is, each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the start winning memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) is stored in the storage area corresponding to the starting winning memory number = n−1.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 reads the jackpot determination random number from the random number storage buffer (step S55), and executes the jackpot determination processing module (step S56).

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a big hit determination process (big hit determination processing module). As shown in FIG. 14, in the jackpot determination process, the game control microcomputer 560 first checks whether or not the current game state is a probability change state (also referred to as a high probability state) (step S81). Note that whether or not the current gaming state is the probability variation state is confirmed by confirming whether or not the probability variation flag indicating that the gaming state is the probability variation state is set.

  When the gaming state is the normal gaming state (N in step S81), the gaming control microcomputer 560 selects a normal jackpot determination table to be used for the jackpot determination in the normal gaming state (step S82), and the step The jackpot determination random number value read in S55 is compared with the jackpot determination value set in the normal jackpot determination table, and if they match, it is determined to be a jackpot (step S83). On the other hand, when the game state is a probability change state (Y in step S81), the game control microcomputer 560 selects a probability change jackpot determination table to be used for the jackpot determination in the probability change state (step S85). The random number value for jackpot determination read in S55 is compared with the jackpot determination value set in the probability change jackpot determination table, and if they match, it is determined to be a jackpot (step S86).

  Here, as shown in FIG. 15, the jackpot determination random number value is updated in the range of 0 to 65535. When the gaming state is the normal gaming state, as shown in FIG. 15A, when the read jackpot determination random number value is 0 to 62257, it is determined as “big hit” and read. When the jackpot determination random number is a value between 62258 and 65535, it is determined as “out of”. That is, in the normal jackpot determination table, a value of 0 to 62257 is set as the jackpot determination value in the update range 0 to 65535 of the jackpot determination random value. Therefore, in this embodiment, the probability of being determined to be a big hit in the big hit determination in the normal gaming state (a special symbol winning probability) is about 95%. On the other hand, when the gaming state is a probable change state, as shown in FIG. 15 (B), when the read jackpot determination random value is a value between 0 and 65535, it is determined as “big hit”. That is, in the probability change big hit determination table, the same value 0 to 65535 as the big hit determination random number update range 0 to 65535 is set as the big hit determination value. Therefore, in this embodiment, the probability that the jackpot determination is determined to be a big hit in the probability variation state (the winning probability of the special symbol) is 100%.

  As described above, when the gaming state is the normal gaming state, it is a big hit with a high probability, and when the gaming state is the probability variation state, it is always a big hit (with a probability of 100%). Therefore, in the jackpot determination process shown in FIG. 14, when the gaming state is the normal gaming state, the gaming control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the “hit” is determined in step S83 (step S84). When it is determined that “big hit” (Y in step S84), a big hit flag is set (step S87). On the other hand, when the gaming state is a probable change state, the gaming control microcomputer 560 is always determined to be “big hit” in step S86, so it is not confirmed whether or not “big hit” has been determined, and the big hit flag Is set (step S87).

  Returning to the description of FIG. 13, after the jackpot determination process (step S56), the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the jackpot flag is set (step S57). When the big hit flag is not set (N in Step S57), that is, when it is determined to be out of play, the game control microcomputer 560 displays the symbol information (in this case, in accordance with the display result determined in Step S56). The loss is stored in the symbol information buffer (step S62).

  In step S62, after symbol information corresponding to the display result is stored in the symbol information buffer, a decorative symbol command control process (step S29) is executed in response to the occurrence of a timer interrupt, and a command set process (not shown) is performed. ) Is executed, and a command transmission process (not shown) is executed. As a result, a symbol information designation command (here, a miss designation command) corresponding to the display result is transmitted.

  Although not shown in FIG. 13, only one type of “5” is provided as the missing symbol, so that the missing symbol is automatically determined when the missing symbol is determined.

  Thereafter, the game control microcomputer 560 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value (specifically “1”) corresponding to the special symbol variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S63). Then, the process ends.

  When the big hit flag is set in step S57 (Y in step S57), the game control microcomputer 560 reads the big hit type determination random number from the random number storage buffer (step S58), and determines whether or not to make a probable big hit. (A big hit type determining process for determining whether to make a promising big hit or a normal big hit) is executed (step S59).

  Here, as shown in FIG. 16, the jackpot type determination random number value is updated in the range of 0-9. When the read big hit type determination random number value is 0, it is determined as “normal big hit”, and when the read big hit determination random number value is 1 to 9, “probable big hit” is determined. It is determined. Therefore, in this embodiment, the probability (probability determination rate) determined to be a probable big hit is 90%. The probability variation rate of 90% means that the probability that the probability variation is a big hit in the normal gaming state and the transition to the probability variation state is 90%, and that the probability variation state is the probability variation big hit in the probability variation state. This means that the percentage that is continued is 90%.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the big hit type determined in step S59 is a probable big hit (step S60). If the big hit type is a probable big hit, the probable big hit flag indicating that the probable big hit is determined. Is set (step S61).

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 stores (stores) the symbol information corresponding to the display result (big hit type) determined in step S59 in the symbol information buffer (step S62).

  In step S62, after symbol information corresponding to the display result is stored in the symbol information buffer, a decorative symbol command control process (step S29) is executed, a command set process (not shown) is executed, and a command is transmitted. Processing (not shown) is executed. As a result, a symbol information designation command (in this case, a normal jackpot designation command or a probability variation jackpot designation command) according to the display result is transmitted.

  Although not shown in FIG. 13, only one type of jackpot symbol is provided according to the jackpot type, so that the jackpot symbol is automatically determined by determining the jackpot type. Specifically, the non-probability variable symbol “3” is determined for a normal big hit (non-probable variable big hit), and the probable variable symbol “7” is determined for a promiscuous big hit.

  Thereafter, the game control microcomputer 560 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value (specifically “1”) corresponding to the special symbol variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S63). Then, the process ends.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the special symbol variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol variation pattern setting process, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the special symbol variation time in the special symbol process timer and starts the special symbol process timer (step S211). In this embodiment, the variation time of the special symbol is set to a fixed time (for example, 5 seconds) regardless of whether the special symbol display result (stop symbol) is lost and whether it is a normal big hit or a probable big hit. . Then, the game control microcomputer 560 starts the variation of the special symbol (step S212), and sets the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol variation processing (step S302) (specifically “2”). (Step S213).

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the special symbol changing process (step S302) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol changing process, first, the game control microcomputer 560 decrements the value of the special symbol process timer by 1 (step S221). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the special symbol process timer is up (that is, whether or not the value of the special symbol process timer is 0) (step S222). If the time is not up (N in step S222) ) And the process is terminated. If the special symbol process timer has expired (Y in step S222), the game control microcomputer 560 stops the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 and derives and displays the stop symbol (step S223). .

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 sets a symbol stop time for stopping and displaying the special symbol stop symbol in the special symbol process timer, and starts the timer (step S224). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value (specifically “3”) corresponding to the special symbol stop process (step S303) (step S225).

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S303) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop process, the game control microcomputer 560 decrements the value of the special symbol process timer by 1 (step S231). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the special symbol process timer has expired (that is, whether or not the value of the special symbol process timer is 0) (step S232). If the time is not up (N in step S232), the process is terminated as it is.

  If the special symbol process timer has expired (Y in step S232), the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S233). If the jackpot flag is set (Y in step S233), the game control microcomputer 560 stops the jackpot symbol in the jackpot control timer that measures the time for controlling the opening / closing of the jackpot. The time from the display to the opening of the big winning opening (a jackpot display time: 3 seconds, for example) is set (step S234). In the jackpot display time, an effect (fanfare effect) for notifying the player that the jackpot game is started is executed.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the address of the fanfare command transmission table in the pointer (step S235), and executes command setting processing (step S236). Thereby, control for transmitting a fanfare command is executed. After that, the game control microcomputer 560 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value (specifically, “4”) corresponding to the special winning opening opening pre-processing (step S304) (step S237).

  If the big hit flag is not set (N in step S233), the game control microcomputer 560 sets the value of the special symbol process flag to a value (specifically, “0”) corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300). (Step S238).

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the pre-opening process for the special winning opening in the special symbol process (step S304). In the pre-opening process for the big winning opening, the game control microcomputer 560 decrements the value of the big winning opening control timer by 1 (step S401), and confirms whether or not the value of the big winning opening control timer is 0 ( Step S402). If the value of the big prize opening control timer is not 0 (N in step S402), the processing is ended as it is. If the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0 (Y in step S402), the game control microcomputer 560 sets the address of the special prize opening opening command transmission table to the pointer (step S403), and the command A set process is executed (step S404). As a result, control for transmitting a command-in-opening command that designates a display state according to the number of rounds during the opening of the special winning opening (during round) is executed. The number of rounds is recognized by checking the value of a round number counter that counts the number of rounds in the big hit game. Then, the game control microcomputer 560 performs control for driving the solenoid 21 to open the special winning opening (special variable winning device 20) (step S405), and increments the value of the round number counter by 1 (step S406). .

  In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided. In step S405, the game control microcomputer 560 turns on / off the solenoid in the RAM area of the output port. The content related to off is set according to the open / close state of the solenoid to be driven. Then, the contents set in the RAM area of the output port in the output process of step S32 are output to the output port. As a result, a drive command signal is output from the output port to the solenoid circuit 59. The solenoid circuit 59 outputs a drive signal for driving the solenoid in response to a drive command signal to drive the solenoid. Hereinafter, in the process of opening and closing the solenoid, such an operation is performed.

  In addition, the maximum time (round time) that the big winning opening can be opened in each round in the big hit is set in the big winning opening control timer (step S407). The round time is, for example, 29.5 seconds. Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “5”) corresponding to the special winning opening opening process (step S305) (step S408).

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the special winning opening opening process (step S305) in the special symbol process. In the special winning opening opening process, the game control microcomputer 560 first decrements the value of the special winning prize control timer by -1 (step S421). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0 (step S422). If the value of the big prize opening control timer is not 0 (N in step S422), it is checked whether or not the game ball has won the big prize opening by checking whether or not the count switch 23 is turned on. Confirmation is made (step S423). If the count switch 23 is not turned on (N in step S423), the process is terminated as it is.

  If the count switch 23 is ON (Y in step S423), the game control microcomputer 560 increments the value of the winning number counter for counting the number of winning game balls to the big winning opening (step S424). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the value of the winning number counter is a predetermined number (1 in this embodiment) (step S425), and the value of the winning number counter is set to the predetermined number. If so (Y in step S426), the process proceeds to step S426. In the example shown in FIG. 21, it is configured to check whether or not the value of the winning number counter is a predetermined number (1 in this embodiment) after the process of step S424 (step S424). S425) In this embodiment, when one game ball is won in the big winning opening, the round is ended, so the process of step S425 may be omitted.

  When the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0 (Y in step S422) or when the value of the winning number counter is a predetermined number (Y in step S425), the game control microcomputer 560 is Then, the solenoid 21 is driven to control to close the special winning opening (special variable winning device 20) (step S426). Then, the value of the winning number counter is cleared (set to 0) (step S427).

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the address of the command transmission table after the special winning opening is opened to the pointer (step S428), and executes the command setting process (step S429). As a result, control for transmitting a command after opening the big prize opening that designates the display state according to the number of rounds after the opening of the special prize opening (after the end of the round) is executed.

  Then, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the time (interval time) from the end of the round to the start of the next round (interval time) during the big hit (step S430) in the big prize opening control timer (step S430). The value of the flag is updated to a value (specifically “6”) corresponding to the pre-opening process for the special winning opening (step S306) (step S431). The interval time is 2 seconds, for example.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the special winning opening opening post-processing (step S306) in the special symbol process. In the post-opening process for the big prize opening, the game control microcomputer 560 first decrements the value of the big prize opening control timer by -1 (step S441), and checks whether the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0 or not. (Step S442). If the value of the big prize opening control timer is not 0 (N in step S442), the processing is ended as it is. If the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0 (Y in step S442), the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the value of the round number counter is 2 (step S443). If the value of the round number counter is not 2 (N in step S443), the address of the command winning table open command transmission table is set in the pointer (step S444), and the command setting process is executed (step S445). As a result, control for transmitting a command-in-opening command that designates a display state according to the number of rounds during the opening of the special winning opening (during round) is executed. Then, the game control microcomputer 560 performs control for driving the solenoid 21 to open the special winning opening (special variable winning device 20) (step S446), and increments the value of the round number counter by 1 (step S447). .

  In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the round time in the special winning opening control timer (step S448). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically, “5”) corresponding to the special winning opening opening process (step S305) (step S449).

  If the value of the round number counter is 2 (Y in step S443), the game control microcomputer 560 sets the address of the ending command transmission table in the pointer (step S450), and executes the command setting process (step S450). Step S451). As a result, control for transmitting an ending command is executed.

  Then, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the jackpot end time (ending time of ending effect) for notifying the player of the end of the jackpot in the jackpot control timer (step S452), and sets the value of the special symbol process flag. The value is updated to a value (specifically “7”) according to the big hit end process (step S307) (step S453).

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process. In the big hit ending process, the game control microcomputer 560 first decrements the value of the big prize winning control timer by -1 (step S471). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the big prize opening control timer is 0 (step S472). If the value of the big prize opening control timer is not 0 (N in step S472), the process is terminated as it is. If the value of the big prize winning control timer is 0 (Y in step S472), the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the big hit is a probable big hit (step S473). Note that whether or not the probability variation big hit is made can be confirmed by whether or not the probability variation big hit flag is set.

  If the probability change big hit is found (Y in step S473), the game control microcomputer 560 sets the probability change flag if the probability change flag is not set (step S474). When it is not a probable big hit (that is, when it is a normal big hit) (N in step S473), the game control microcomputer 560 resets the probable change flag if the probability change flag is set (step S475). Then, the big hit flag is reset (step S476). If the probability variation big hit flag is set, the probability variation big hit flag is reset (step S477).

  Thereafter, the game control microcomputer 560 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value (specifically, “0”) corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S478).

  Although the probability variation flag is configured to be reset in step S475, the probability variation flag may be reset when the process shifts to the pre-opening process for the big winning opening (in the case of Y in step S233). In this way, by resetting the probability change flag when shifting to the pre-opening process for the big winning opening, the probability that the variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to open during the big hit game is lowered, and the number of reserved symbols stored in the special symbol is reduced. It is possible to avoid the situation that it will not go away.

  Next, the normal symbol process (step S28) executed by the game control microcomputer 560 will be described. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing an example of the normal symbol process. In the normal symbol process, when the game control microcomputer 560 detects that the game ball has passed through the gate 32 and the gate switch 32a is turned on (step S111), the gate switch passage process (steps S112 to S114). ).

  In the gate switch passage process, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the count value (gate passage storage number) of the gate passage storage counter has reached the maximum value (“4” in this example) (step S112). . If the maximum value has not been reached (N in step S112), the game control microcomputer 560 extracts the random number for determining the variation pattern (random 2) and the random number for determination per random symbol (random 3), which are software random numbers. Then, a process of storing in the storage area (ordinary symbol determination buffer) corresponding to the value of the number of stored gate passages is performed (step S113). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 increments the count value of the gate passage storage counter by 1 (step S114). Note that the LED of the normal symbol storage memory display 41 is turned on according to the value of the gate passage storage counter.

  Thereafter, the game control microcomputer 560 executes one of the processes shown in steps S100 to S104 according to the value of the normal symbol process flag.

  Normal symbol normal processing (step S100): The game control microcomputer 560 is in a state where normal symbol variation can be started (for example, when the value of the normal symbol process flag is a value indicating step S100) The normal symbol display 10 does not display the variation of the normal symbol and is not in the open / close operation of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 based on the fact that the symbol is derived and displayed on the normal symbol display 10) In this case, the value of the gate passing memory number is confirmed. Specifically, the count value of the gate passing memory number counter is confirmed. If the gate passing memory number is not 0, it is determined whether or not to win (whether or not to stop the normal symbol as a winning symbol). Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “1”) indicating the normal symbol variation pattern setting process (step S101).

  Normal symbol variation pattern setting process (step S301): A variation pattern of variable display of a regular symbol (effect mode during symbol variation: the variation time is also specified by the variation pattern) at the time of winning the winning to the gate 32 It is selected from a plurality of types of variation patterns determined in advance according to the value of the extracted variation pattern determination random number (one of the display random numbers). Also, based on the determined variation pattern, after setting the variable display time (ordinary symbol variation time) until the normal symbol is variably displayed and derived and displayed in the normal symbol process timer, the normal symbol process timer is started. . Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “2”) corresponding to the normal symbol variation process (step S102).

  Normal symbol variation processing (step S102): The game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the ordinary symbol process timer has timed out, and if it has timed out, stops the variation of the ordinary symbol on the ordinary symbol display 10. Further, an effect control command (decorative symbol stop designation command: also referred to as symbol confirmation designation command) for designating stop of variable display of the decorative symbols in the variable display device 9 is transmitted to the effect control board 80. Then, the normal symbol stop symbol display time is set in the normal symbol process timer, and the timer is started. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “3”) indicating the normal symbol stop process (step S103).

  Normal symbol stop processing (step S103): The game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the normal symbol process timer has timed out, and if it has timed out, checks whether or not the normal symbol stop symbol is a winning symbol. To do. If it is not a winning symbol (if it is a missing symbol), the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically, “0”) indicating the normal symbol normal processing (step S100). On the other hand, if the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol, the normal electric accessory operating time is set in the normal symbol process timer, and the timer is started. In addition, it is confirmed whether or not the current gaming state is a high probability state (probability variation state), and if it is a high probability state, the opening pattern of the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball apparatus 15) in the high probability state If the low probability state (normal game state) is selected, the release pattern of the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball apparatus 15) in the low probability state is selected, and the selected release pattern is set. Then, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “4”) indicating the normal electric accessory operation processing (step S104).

  Normal electric accessory act processing (step S104): The game control microcomputer 560 wins the game ball to the normal electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) on condition that the normal symbol process timer has not timed out. The ordinary electric accessory winning count process for counting the number (the number of winnings to the second start winning opening 14) is executed, and the ordinary electric accessory is released with the set opening pattern (of the variable winning ball apparatus 15). (Open / close operation is executed) Normal electric accessory release pattern processing is executed. When the normal symbol process timer times out, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “0”) indicating the normal symbol normal process (step S100).

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing normal symbol normal processing (step S100). In the normal symbol normal process, the game control microcomputer 560 confirms whether or not the gate passing memory number is 0 by confirming the count value of the gate passing memory number counter (step S121). If the gate passing memory number is 0 (Y in step S121), the process is terminated as it is. If the gate passing memory number is not 0 (N in step S121), the game control microcomputer 560 determines the random number value for determination per normal symbol and the variation pattern stored in the storage area corresponding to the gate passing memory number = 1. The determination random number value is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S122). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 decrements the value of the gate passing memory number counter by 1 and shifts the contents of each storage area (step S123). That is, the random number value for determination per normal symbol and the random number value for determining the variation pattern stored in the storage area corresponding to the gate passing memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) are represented by the gate passing memory number = n−. 1 is stored in the storage area corresponding to 1. Therefore, the order in which the random numbers for determining normal symbols and the random numbers for determining variation patterns stored in the respective storage areas corresponding to the respective numbers of stored passages of gates are always extracted as follows: , 3 and 4 in order.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 reads the normal symbol per-determination random number from the random number storage buffer (step S124), and determines whether to win or not based on the read random number value. Is executed (step S125).

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the universal hit determination process. As shown in FIG. 26, in the normal game hit determination process, the game control microcomputer 560 first checks whether or not the current game state is a probability change state (high probability state) (step S91). Note that whether or not the current gaming state is the probability variation state is confirmed by confirming whether or not the probability variation flag indicating that the gaming state is the probability variation state is set.

  When the gaming state is the normal gaming state (N in step S91), the gaming control microcomputer 560 selects a normal-time normal figure hit determination table used for the hit determination in the normal gaming state (step S92). The normal symbol per-determining random number value read in step S124 is compared with the hit determination value set in the normal-time normal symbol per-determination determination table, and if they match, it is determined to be a hit (step S93). On the other hand, when the game state is the probability change state (Y in step S91), the game control microcomputer 560 selects the probability change normal figure hit determination table used for the hit determination in the probability change state (step S95). Then, the random number value for normal symbol determination read in step S124 is compared with the hit determination value set in the probability change normal symbol determination table, and if they match, it is determined to be a hit (step S96).

  Here, as shown in FIG. 27, the random number value for determination per ordinary symbol is updated in the range of 0 to 149. When the gaming state is the normal gaming state, as shown in FIG. 27A, when the read random number for normal symbol determination is a value of 7, it is determined as “winning” and read. When the random value for determination per normal symbol is a value from 0 to 6, 8 to 149, it is determined as “out of”. In other words, in the normal-time normal symbol determination table, only seven of the update ranges 0 to 149 of the normal symbol determination random number value are set as the hit determination values. Accordingly, in this embodiment, the probability of being determined to be a hit in the normal symbol determination (ordinary symbol winning probability) in the normal game state is 1/150. On the other hand, when the gaming state is a probable change state, as shown in FIG. 15 (B), when the read random number for normal symbol determination is a value between 0 and 149, it is determined as “winning”. That is, in the probability variation normal symbol determination table, a value of 0 to 149 which is the same as the update range 0 to 149 of the normal symbol determination random number value is set as the hit determination value. Therefore, in this embodiment, the probability of being determined to be hit in the normal symbol determination (ordinary symbol winning probability) in the probability variation state is 100% (1/1).

  As described above, when the gaming state is the normal gaming state, it is a big hit with a low probability, and when the gaming state is the probability variation state, it is always a big hit (with a probability of 100%). Accordingly, when the game state is the normal game state in the normal game hit determination process shown in FIG. 26, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not “win” is determined in step S93 (step S94). ), When it is determined to be “winning” (Y in step S94), a normal winning flag is set (step S97). On the other hand, when the gaming state is in the probabilistic state, the gaming control microcomputer 560 is always determined as “winning” in step S96, so that it is not necessary to check whether it has been determined as “winning”. A winning flag is set (step S97).

  Returning to the description of FIG. 25, thereafter, the game control microcomputer 560 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag to a value (specifically “2”) indicating the normal symbol variation pattern setting process (step S102). (Step S126).

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing a normal symbol variation pattern setting process (step S102) in the normal symbol process. In the normal symbol variation pattern setting process, the game control microcomputer 560 first checks whether or not the universal symbol flag is set (step S131). When the normal hit flag is set (Y in step S131), the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the current game state is a certain change state (step S132). Whether or not the gaming state is a probability variation state is confirmed by whether or not the probability variation flag is set. When the gaming state is not the probability variation state but the normal gaming state (N in step S132), it is determined to use the normal time variation pattern determination table used when winning in the normal gaming state (step S133). .

  In the normal time variation pattern determination table, variation patterns ("07H" to "0DH") selected in advance in the normal gaming state shown in FIG. 12 are set, and a plurality of determinations are made for each variation pattern. A value has been assigned.

  On the other hand, when the gaming state is the probability variation state (Y in step S132), it is determined to use the probability variation time variation pattern determination table used when winning in the probability variation state (step S134).

  Only the variation pattern (“01H”) selected at the time of winning in the probability variation state shown in FIG. 12 is set in advance in the variation pattern determination table for probability variation time, and a determination value is assigned to this variation pattern.

  When the normal hit flag is not set (N in step S131), the game control microcomputer 560 decides to use the deviation variation pattern determination table to be used when the game is lost in the normal gaming state ( Step S135).

  In the variation pattern determination table for deviation, variation patterns (“00H”, “02H” to “06H”) that are selected in the normal gaming state shown in FIG. 12 are set in advance, and a plurality of variation patterns are set for each variation pattern. The judgment value is assigned.

  Then, the game control microcomputer 560 reads the variation pattern determination random number from the random number storage buffer, and based on the read variation pattern determination random number value, the variation pattern determination table determined in steps S133, S134, and S135. Using this, the fluctuation pattern of the normal symbol is determined (step S136).

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the normal symbol process time specified by the change pattern in the normal symbol process timer, and starts the normal symbol process timer (step S137). In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the address of the variation command transmission table for transmitting the variation pattern command corresponding to the variation pattern determined in step S136 to the pointer (step S138), and executes the command setting process. (Step S139). As a result, control for transmitting a variation pattern command corresponding to the determined variation pattern to the production control microcomputer 100 is executed.

  Thereafter, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “2”) corresponding to the normal symbol variation process (step S102) (step S140).

  In FIG. 28, the variation pattern command is transmitted in the processes of steps S138 and S139. However, the variation pattern command is transmitted in the decorative symbol command control process (step S29). Also good. Specifically, the address of the variation command transmission table corresponding to the variation pattern determined in step S136 is stored in the decorative symbol command transmission pointer. Then, in the decorative symbol command control process, control is performed to transmit a variation pattern command indicating the content of the determined variation pattern based on the fact that the address of the variation command transmission table is stored in the decorative symbol command transmission pointer. In this embodiment, in the decorative symbol command control process, the display result command is transmitted continuously (after 2 ms) after the variation pattern command is transmitted.

  Further, in this embodiment, in the decorative symbol command control process, when the variation of the normal symbol starts (when the number of stored passages of the normal symbol becomes -1) and when the game ball passes through the gate 32 (the gate of the normal symbol) When the passing memory number becomes +1), a gate passing memory number designation command (not shown in FIG. 11) for designating the normal symbol gate passing memory number is also transmitted. The command for specifying the number of passages through the gate at the start of normal symbol variation is transmitted continuously (after 2 ms) after the display result command is transmitted.

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol variation process (step S102). In the normal symbol variation processing, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the value of the normal symbol process timer has reached 0, that is, whether or not the normal symbol process timer has expired (step S141). If the normal symbol process timer has not expired (N in step S141), the game control microcomputer 560 decrements the value of the normal symbol process timer by -1 (step S142).

  When the normal symbol process timer expires, that is, when the normal symbol change time has elapsed (Y in step S141), the game control microcomputer 560 stops the normal symbol change in the normal symbol display 10. (Step S143). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the address of the decorative symbol stop designation command transmission table in the pointer (step S144), and executes the command setting process (step S145). As a result, control for transmitting a decorative symbol stop designation command is executed.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the normal symbol stop symbol display time in the normal symbol process timer (step S146). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 updates the value of the normal symbol process flag to a value (specifically “3”) indicating the normal symbol stop process (step S103) (step S137).

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol stop process (step S103). In the normal symbol stop process, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether the value of the normal symbol process timer has reached 0, that is, whether the normal symbol process timer has expired (step S151). If the normal symbol process timer has not expired (N in Step S151), the game control microcomputer 560 decrements the value of the normal symbol process timer by -1 (Step S152).

  When the normal symbol process timer expires, that is, when the normal symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed (Y in step S151), the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the flag for normal symbol is set. (Step S153).

  When the normal symbol hit flag is set (Y in step S153), the game control microcomputer 560 sets the normal electric accessory operating time in the normal symbol process timer (step S154). The ordinary electric accessory operating time is the maximum time during which the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) can operate. It should be noted that the normal electric accessory operating time may be different depending on whether the gaming state is the normal gaming state or the probability variation state.

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 confirms whether the game state is a high probability state (probability change state) or a low probability state (normal game state) by checking whether the probability change flag is set. (Step S155).

  When in the high probability state (Y in step S155), the game control microcomputer 560 is set in the high probability table (table in the case of the probabilistic change state) shown in FIG. An open pattern is selected (step S156). On the other hand, when it is in the low probability state (N in step S155), the game control microcomputer 560 displays the low probability table (table in the normal game state) shown in FIG. A set release pattern is selected (step S157). In the example shown in FIG. 31, in the low probability table, data of an opening pattern with an opening time of 2.0 seconds and an opening count of 3 is set. Further, in the high probability table, data of an opening pattern with an opening time of 2.5 seconds and an opening frequency of 2 is set. In the release pattern shown in FIG. 31, the number of times of opening is set to three or two times. However, the number of times of opening may be set to one and the opening may be continued until the total opening time elapses.

  Then, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the release pattern selected in step S156 or S157 in the release pattern buffer (step S158). When the opening pattern is set in the opening pattern buffer, the opening pattern time (in this case, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is set) is added to the ordinary electric accessory opening pattern timer (the timer for measuring the opening time and closing time of the ordinary electric accessory). The process of setting the closing time until the first opening is also performed. Thereafter, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “4”) indicating the normal electric accessory operation processing (step S104) (step S159).

  When it is determined in step S153 that the normal symbol hit flag is not set (N in step S153), the game control microcomputer 560 indicates the normal symbol normal processing (step S100) with the value of the normal symbol process flag. It is updated to a value (specifically “0”) (step S160).

  FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the ordinary electric accessory operating process (step S104). In the ordinary electric actor operation process, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the value of the normal symbol process timer has reached 0, that is, whether or not the normal symbol process timer has expired (step S161). If the normal symbol process timer has not expired (N in step S161), the game control microcomputer 560 decrements the value of the normal symbol process timer by -1 (step S162).

  Then, the game control microcomputer 560 loads the switch-on buffer into the register (step S163). The switch-on buffer is a buffer in which 1 is set in the corresponding bit of the switch when switch-on is detected, and 0 is set in the corresponding bit of the switch when the switch-off is detected.

  The game control microcomputer 560 checks whether 1 is set in the second start port switch input bit (corresponding bit of the second start port switch 14a) (step S164). That is, it is confirmed whether or not the second start opening switch 14a is turned on (whether or not a game ball has won the second start winning opening 14). If 1 is not set in the second start port switch input bit (N in Step S164), the process proceeds to Step S170. If 1 is set in the second start port switch input bit (Y in step S164), the second start port switch 14a is turned on, so that the game control microcomputer 560 is a normal electric accessory (variable). The number of the number of game balls won in the winning ball apparatus 15) is incremented by 1 (step S165). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the value of the ordinary electric winning prize counter is less than 8 (step S166). If the value of the ordinary electric winning prize counter is less than 8 (Y in step S166), the process proceeds to step S170.

  If the value of the ordinary electric winning prize counter is not less than 8 (N in step S166), that is, if it is 8 or more, the game control microcomputer 560 clears (sets to 0) the value of the normal symbol process timer. (Step S167). By this process, it is determined that the normal symbol process timer has timed out thereafter (see Y in step S161). As described above, in this embodiment, when eight or more game balls win the variable winning ball device 15 within the normal electric accessory operating time, the opening control of the variable winning ball device 15 (steps S170 to S174). Not to run.

  Then, when the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball apparatus 15) is open, the game control microcomputer 560 drives the solenoid 16 to close the ordinary electric accessory (step S168). Further, the game control microcomputer 560 starts a normal process transition time timer (step S169). The normal process transition time timer is a timer for measuring the time difference (time lag) from when the normal symbol process timer times out (Y in step S161) until the normal symbol process is shifted to normal symbol process (step S178). Then, the process ends. Thereafter, when the game control microcomputer 560 determines that the special symbol process timer has timed out (Y in step S161), the normal process transition time timer is decremented by -1 (step S176), and the normal process transition time timer has timed out. Whether or not is confirmed (step S177). If the normal processing transition time timer times out (Y in step S177), the ordinary symbol flag is reset (step S178), and the value of the normal symbol process flag is set to a value indicating the normal symbol normal processing (step S100) (specifically, Is updated to "0") (step S179). By the processing in steps S169, S176, and S177, the normal symbol process timer is shifted to the normal symbol normal processing after a predetermined time has elapsed since the normal symbol process timer timed out. The “predetermined time” is, for example, about 3 seconds.

  In step S170, the game control microcomputer 560 decrements the value of the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer by -1 (step S170). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the value of the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer is 0, that is, whether or not the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer has expired (step S171). If it has not timed out (N in step S171), the process is terminated as it is. If time-out has occurred (Y in step S171), the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether or not the release pattern has ended (step S172). If the release pattern has not ended (N in step S172), the release pattern time is set in the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer (step S173). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 drives the solenoid 16 to open or close the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball apparatus 15) (step S174).

  Specifically, when the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer expires when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed, the release time is set as the release pattern time in the ordinary electric accessory release pattern timer, and the output port buffer ( The variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened by inverting the solenoid output bit of the ordinary electric accessory of the solenoid buffer. When the normal electric accessory release pattern timer expires when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state, a closing time is set as an open pattern time in the normal electric accessory release pattern timer, and the normal output port buffer (solenoid buffer) The variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed by reversing the electric accessory solenoid output bit.

  Through the processes in steps S170 to S174 described above, an open pattern in the low probability state (normal game state) and an open pattern in the high probability state (probability change state) are realized. When the gaming state is in a low probability state, the release time is 2.0 seconds and the number of times of opening is 3, so that, for example, 1.0 seconds after the normal electric accessory activation process is started When the closing time elapses, the variable winning ball device 15 is opened and opened, and when the opening time of 2.0 seconds elapses thereafter, the variable winning ball device 15 is closed and closed, and 1.0 again. When the second closing time elapses, the variable winning ball device 15 is opened and opened. When the opening time of 2.0 seconds elapses thereafter, the variable winning ball device 15 is closed and closed. When the closing time of 0.0 second elapses, the variable winning ball device 15 is opened and opened, and when the opening time of 2.0 seconds elapses thereafter, the variable winning ball device 15 is closed and closed. . Further, when the gaming state is in a high probability state, the release time is 2.5 seconds and the number of times of opening is two. When the second closing time elapses, the variable winning ball device 15 is opened and opened, and when the opening time of 2.5 seconds elapses thereafter, the variable winning ball device 15 is closed and closed. When the closing time of 0.0 seconds elapses, the variable winning ball device 15 is opened and opened, and when the opening time of 2.5 seconds elapses, the variable winning ball device 15 is closed and closed.

  When the above open pattern is completed (Y in step S172), the game control microcomputer 560 starts a normal process transition time timer (step S175) and ends the process. Thereafter, when the game control microcomputer 560 determines that the special symbol process timer has timed out (Y in step S161), the normal process transition time timer is decremented by -1 (step S176), and the normal process transition time timer has timed out. Whether or not is confirmed (step S177). If the normal processing transition time timer times out (Y in step S177), the ordinary symbol flag is reset (step S178), and the value of the normal symbol process flag is set to a value indicating the normal symbol normal processing (step S100) (specifically, Is updated to "0") (step S179). By the processing of steps S175, S176, and S177, the normal symbol process timer is shifted to normal symbol normal processing after a predetermined time has elapsed since the normal symbol process timer timed out.

  FIG. 33 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of bit assignment of input ports related to a switch for detecting a game ball in the game control microcomputer. As shown in FIG. 33, the bits 0 to 7 of the input port 0 include the count switch 23, the gate switch 32a, the winning port switches 33a, 39a, 29a, and 30a, the first start port switch 13a, and the second start, respectively. The detection signal of the mouth switch 14a is input. The input port 0 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG.

  Next, payout control commands (payout control signals) transmitted and received between the main board 31 and the payout control board 37 will be described. FIG. 34 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the content of a payout control signal output from the game control microcomputer 560 to the payout control microcomputer.

  The prize ball REQ signal is a signal that is in an output state (= ON state) when a prize ball number command is transmitted (that is, a trigger signal for a prize ball payout request). The award ball number signal is a signal (prize ball number command) output for designating the number of game balls (0 to 15) for which a payout request is made.

  FIG. 35 is a block diagram showing signal lines and the like used for transmission / reception of each control signal shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 35, the prize ball REQ signal and the 4-bit prize ball number signal are output by the game control microcomputer 560 via the output circuit 67 and to the payout control microcomputer 370 via the input circuit 373A. Entered. The output circuit 67 is installed on the main board 31 outside the I / O port portion 57 shown in FIG. 2 (not shown in FIG. 2). Further, on the payout control board 37, an output circuit 67 is provided in the preceding stage of the input port in the payout control microcomputer.

  FIG. 36 is a timing chart showing an example of how to output the payout control signal. As shown in FIG. 36, the winning detection switch (count switch 23, winning port switches 33a, 39a, 29a, 30a, first starting port switch 13a, and second starting port switch 14a) has detected the winning of the game ball. Based on this, the game control microcomputer 560 turns on the prize ball REQ signal and sets the output state of the prize ball number signal according to the number of prize balls to be paid out in accordance with the winning. Specifically, when the gaming control microcomputer 560 detects that a game ball has won a winning area provided in the gaming machine based on a detection signal from the winning detection switch, the gaming control microcomputer 560 calculates a predetermined number of winning balls. It is added to the content of the total number of winning balls stored in the backup RAM. When the content of the total winning ball number storage buffer becomes a non-zero value, the winning ball REQ signal is turned on, and the output state of the winning ball number signal is set in accordance with the number of winning balls to be paid out according to winning. Put it in a state.

  Further, in this embodiment, when a game ball is detected by the first start port switch 13a and the second start port switch 14a, four prize balls are paid out, and any of the winning port switches 33a, 39a, 29a, 30a is paid. When a game ball is detected, 7 prize balls are paid out. When a game ball is detected by the count switch 23, 15 prize balls are paid out. Further, as described above, since the prize ball number signal is composed of 4 bits, among the prize ball number signals of 00 (H) to 0F (H) expressed in 8 bits, the lower 4 bits are The signal is transmitted from the main board 31 to the payout control board 37 by the award ball number signal. Hereinafter, it may be expressed as “00 (H) to 0F (H) prize ball number signal”, but in reality, the prize ball number signal is represented by 8 bits. This corresponds to the lower 4 bits of 0F (H).

  Further, in this embodiment, the prize ball number signal is transmitted by unidirectional communication in which the signal is transmitted only from the main board 31 toward the payout control board 37, but by bidirectional communication, A prize ball number signal may be transmitted from the main board 31 to the payout control board 37. When performing two-way communication, for example, the payout control microcomputer transmits an ACK signal (response signal) to the game control microcomputer 560 in response to reception of the prize ball REQ signal, or receives a prize ball number signal. An ACK signal indicating that the game has been performed is transmitted to the game control microcomputer 560.

  Next, the switch process (step S21) in the main process will be described. In this embodiment, when the ON state of the detection signal of each switch related to winning detection or gate passage continues for a predetermined time, it is determined that the switch is certainly turned on. Specifically, the switch process is activated every 2 ms, but if the switch is detected to be turned on in both the switch process activated at the present time and the switch process activated 2 ms ago, the switch process is surely performed. Determined to be on.

  FIG. 37 is an explanatory diagram showing each 1-byte buffer formed in the RAM 55 used in the switching process. The port buffer before two times is a buffer in which the switch on / off determination result of the last time (assuming 4 ms before) is stored. The previous port buffer is a buffer in which the switch on / off determination result of the previous time (2 ms before) is stored. As described above, in the switch-on buffer, when a switch on is detected, 1 is set in the corresponding bit of the switch, and when a switch off is detected, 0 is set in the corresponding bit of the switch. It is a buffer. The previous data is a buffer area that is temporarily used when the switch process is executed. The previous-time port buffer, the previous port buffer, the switch-on buffer, and the previous data are formed in the RAM 55. The bit arrangement of the port buffer, the previous port buffer, and the switch-on buffer two times before the second corresponds to the bit arrangement of the input port 0. That is, information corresponding to each of the switch detection signals assigned to bits 0 to 7 shown in FIG. 33 is set in bits 0 to 7 of the port buffer, the previous port buffer, and the switch on buffer two times before.

  FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing a processing example of the switch processing in step S21 in the game control processing. In the switch process, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the content of the previous port buffer to the previous data (step S331). Further, the exclusive OR of the contents of the port buffer and the previous data is taken twice before (step S332). Then, the result of the exclusive OR operation is set as the previous data (step S333). At this stage, in the previous data, the bit having a different value among the 8 bits of the port buffer and the 8 bits of the previous port buffer is “1”. In addition, the contents of the previous port buffer are set in the port buffer two times before (step S334).

  Then, input port 0 data is input (step S335), and the input data is set in the previous port buffer (step S336). The processes in steps S334 and S336 correspond to a preparation process when the switch process is executed next time (after 2 ms).

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 takes the logical product of the data input from the input port 0 and the previous data (step S337). At this stage, in the previous data, a bit having a different value among the 8 bits of the previous port buffer and the 8 bits of the previous port buffer is “1”. That is, among the detection signals of the seven switches, the bit corresponding to the detection signal changed from the state before 2 ms from the state before 4 ms (from “0” to “1” or from “1” to “0”). Is “1”. Therefore, when the logical product of the previous data and the data input from the input port 0 is taken in step S337, the bit that is “1” in the data input from the input port 0 and 2 ms before The bit whose state has changed from the state 4 ms before becomes “1”. That is, as a result of the logical product operation, the bit corresponding to the detection signal in which the current state is the on state and has been detected to have changed from the off state to the on state during the previous switch processing (2 ms before) is “ 1 ”. In other words, the bit corresponding to the detection signal that has changed from the off state to the on state and then detected the on state twice in succession is “1”. Note that “continuously twice” means “both the switch process executed at a certain time and the switch process executed 2 ms after the switch process”.

  The game control microcomputer 560 stores the result of the AND operation in the switch-on buffer (step S338). In the switch-on buffer, after changing from the off state to the on state, the bit corresponding to the detection signal in which the on state is detected twice consecutively is “1”. Therefore, the game control microcomputer 560 can confirm that the detection signal of the switch corresponding to the bit which is “1” in the switch-on buffer is surely turned on. Note that “definitely” means that the ON state has been detected twice in succession, that is, it can be considered that the ON state has continued for 4 ms. It can be done.

  FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing an example of the prize ball processing in step S31. In the prize ball process, the game control microcomputer 560 executes a prize ball number addition process (step S341) and a prize ball control process (step S342).

  In the prize ball number adding process, a prize ball number table shown in FIG. 40 is used. The prize ball number table is set in the ROM 54. The number of processes (in this example, “7”) is set at the start address of the winning ball number table, and the switch input bit determination for each switch of the winning opening from which the winning ball is to be paid out by winning from the next address. The value and the number of winning balls are sequentially set corresponding to each switch of the winning opening. The switch input bit determination value is a value corresponding to the bit to which the detection signal of each switch at the input port 0 is input (see FIG. 33).

  FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing the prize ball number adding process in step S341. In the winning ball number adding process, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the start address of the winning ball number table as a pointer (step S351). Then, the data at the address pointed to by the pointer (in this case, the number of processes) is loaded (step S352). Next, the switch-on buffer is loaded into the register (step S353).

  Then, the pointer value is incremented by 1 (step S354), and the logical product of the contents of the switch-on buffer and the prize ball number table data pointed to by the pointer (in this case, the switch input bit determination value) is calculated (step S355). . Further, the value of the pointer is increased by 1 (step S356).

  If the calculation result in step S355 is not 0 (N in step S361), that is, if the detection signal of the switch to be inspected is on, the process proceeds to step S362A. If the calculation result in step S355 is 0 (Y in step S361), that is, if the detection signal of the switch to be inspected is not on, the number of processes is reduced by 1 (step S359), and if the number of processes is 0 The process ends, and if the number of processes is not 0, the process returns to step S354 (step S360).

  In step S362A, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the switch input bit determination value used in the process of step S355 is a count switch input bit determination value. That is, it is confirmed in step S361 whether or not the count switch 23 has been turned on (whether or not the switch to be inspected is the count switch 23).

  If the switch input bit determination value is the count switch input bit determination value (Y in step S362A), the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 or more ( Step S362B). That the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 or more means that the processing after the pre-opening process of the big winning opening in step S304 is executed in the special symbol process. In other words, it means that a big hit game is being played. Here, during the big hit game, it is a period from the start of the big hit display to the end of the big hit end processing. In other words, the value of the special symbol process flag being 4 or more indicates that there is a possibility that control for opening the big prize opening may be performed when the game control is normally executed. .

  When the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 or more (Y in step S362B), the game control microcomputer 560 uses the prize ball number table data pointed to by the pointer (in this case, the number of prize balls) as a prize ball. The added value is set (step S364), and the prize ball addition value is added to the contents of the 16-bit total prize ball number storage buffer formed in the RAM 55 (step S365). If a carry occurs as a result of the addition, the content of the total number of winning balls storage buffer is set to 65535 (= FFFF (H)) (steps S357 and S358). Then, the process proceeds to step S359.

  The state where the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 4 is a state where the big hit game is not executed and the control for opening the big winning opening is not executed. When it is detected that the count switch 23 is turned on in such a state, it means that an abnormal prize has occurred at the big prize opening or that the detection signal from the count switch 23 has a noise over a long period (over 4 ms). Means that you got on. Therefore, when it is detected that the count switch 23 is turned on in a state where the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 4 (N in step S362B), the prize ball addition value is added to the total prize ball number storage buffer. Do not execute control. That is, the prize ball payout based on the fact that the count switch 23 is turned on is not executed (steps S364 and S365 are skipped). Then, the process proceeds to step S359.

  When the switch input bit determination value is not the count switch input bit determination value (N in step S362A), the game control microcomputer 560 determines that the switch input bit determination value used in the process of step S355 is the second start port switch input. It is confirmed whether or not the bit determination value has been reached (step S363A). That is, it is confirmed in step S361 whether or not the second start port switch 14a has been turned on (whether or not the switch to be inspected is the second start port switch 14a).

  If the switch input bit determination value is the second start port switch input bit determination value (Y in step S363A), the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether the value of the normal symbol process flag is 4 or not. (Step S363B). That the value of the normal symbol process flag is 4 means that the normal electric accessory actuating process of step S104 is being executed in the normal symbol process. That is, it means that the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball apparatus 15) is being opened and closed.

  When the switch input bit determination value is not the second start port switch input bit determination value (N in Step S363A) and when the value of the normal symbol process flag is 4 (Y in Step S363B), the game control The microcomputer 560 sets the prize ball number table data pointed to by the pointer (in this case, the prize ball number) to the prize ball addition value (step S364), and the prize ball addition value is 16 bits formed in the RAM 55. Is added to the contents of the total number of winning balls storage buffer (step S365). If a carry occurs as a result of the addition, the content of the total number of winning balls storage buffer is set to 65535 (= FFFF (H)) (steps S357 and S358). Then, the process proceeds to step S359.

  The state where the value of the normal symbol process flag is not 4 is a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is not operating and the control for opening the variable winning ball device 15 is not executed. In such a state, it is detected that the second start opening switch 14a is turned on. This means that an abnormal winning has occurred in the second start winning opening 14 or a detection signal from the second start opening switch 14a is long. This means that noise has been applied for a period (over 4 ms). Therefore, when it is detected that the second start port switch 14a is turned on when the value of the normal symbol process flag is not 4 (N in Step S363B), the prize ball addition value is added to the total prize ball number storage buffer. Do not execute the control. That is, the prize ball payout based on the fact that the second start port switch 14a is turned on is not executed (steps S364 and S365 are skipped). Then, the process proceeds to step S359.

  In the above processing, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether or not an abnormal winning in the special winning a prize has occurred based on the value of the special symbol process flag. When it is detected that the count switch 23 is turned on when the count switch 23 is not turned on, the prize ball payout based on the count switch 23 being turned on may not be executed. However, when configured to determine whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on the value of the special symbol process flag as in this embodiment, it is determined whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on one data. As a result, the determination process is simplified. Since the big winning opening is opened or closed over a plurality of rounds, it is determined whether or not the abnormal winning has occurred by judging whether or not the actual winning opening is controlled. To be complicated.

  In addition, since there is a certain distance between the entrance of the big prize opening and the position where the count switch 23 is installed, it is determined whether or not the control for actually opening the big prize opening is performed, and whether or not an abnormal prize has occurred. In determining whether or not, it is necessary to consider a game ball that may have won a prize winning slot immediately before closing after performing a control for closing the prize winning opening. That is, it is necessary to consider the time for the game ball to flow from the entrance of the big prize opening to the position where the count switch 23 is installed. In other words, it is necessary to start the determination as to whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred after a certain period of time has passed since the control for actually closing the special winning opening is performed. This also complicates the processing.

  However, as in this embodiment, when it is configured to determine whether or not an abnormal winning to the big winning opening has occurred after the end of the big hit ending process, it is counted from the entrance of the big winning opening. It is not necessary to consider the time during which the game ball flows until the switch 23 is installed. This is because the game ball that has won the winning prize immediately before closing has reached the installation position of the count switch 23 during the processing period of the big hit ending process after the closing of the winning prize opening. In this embodiment, during the processing period of the jackpot end process, that is, the period during which the jackpot end display is made on the variable display device 9, until the game ball that has won the big prize opening reaches the installation position of the count switch 23. It is set longer than the time.

  Also, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred in the second start winning opening 14 based on the value of the normal symbol process flag (see step S363B). When the ball device 15 is not opened (that is, when the variable winning ball device 15 repeats the opening / closing operation based on the opening pattern corresponding to the gaming state in the ordinary electric accessory operation processing shown in FIG. 32, the variable winning ball device 15 When it is detected that the second start port switch 14a is turned on when the second start port switch 14a is turned on, the prize ball payout may not be executed. However, when it is configured to determine whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on the value of the normal symbol process flag as in this embodiment, it is determined whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on one data. As a result, the determination process is simplified. For example, when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened or closed a plurality of times (three or two times in the embodiment) as in the high probability state, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is actually used. The process is complicated if it is determined whether or not the control for releasing is performed and it is determined whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred. However, the process can be simplified by determining based on the normal symbol process flag.

  In addition, since there is a certain distance between the entrance of the second start winning opening 14 and the installation position of the second start opening switch 14a, is it actually controlled to open the variable winning ball apparatus 15 or not? When determining whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred, a game ball that may have won the second start winning opening 14 immediately after closing after taking control of the variable winning ball device 15 is considered. There is a need to. That is, it is necessary to consider the time for the game ball to flow from the entrance of the second start winning opening 14 to the installation position of the second start opening switch 14a. Therefore, in this embodiment, the timing for determining the abnormal winning is delayed from the timing for closing the variable winning ball device 15.

  Specifically, a time difference is provided between the timing at which the variable winning ball device 15 is finally closed and the timing at which the normal symbol normal processing is shifted to. That is, when eight game balls are won in the variable winning ball apparatus 15 and the value of the special symbol process timer is cleared (step S167) or when the opening pattern of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is ended (Y in step S172). Starts the normal processing transition time timer (steps S169 and S175), measures the predetermined time with the normal processing transition time timer (steps S176 and S177), and when the normal processing transition time timer times out (Y in step S177) ), It is configured to shift to normal symbol normal processing (step S179). Then, the predetermined time measured by the normal processing transition time timer is set to be longer than the time until the game ball that has won the second start winning opening 14 (variable winning ball apparatus 15) reaches the installation position of the second start opening switch 14a. It is set sufficiently long (for example, set to 3 seconds). If it does in this way, a game ball won immediately before closure of the variable winning ball device 15, and after the shift to the normal symbol normal processing, the winning of the game ball will not be detected by the second start port switch 14a. It is possible to reliably prevent erroneous detection that an abnormal winning has occurred.

  As a method of delaying the timing for determining the abnormal winning prize from the timing for closing the variable winning ball apparatus 15, in the above example, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed a predetermined time before the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 4 to 0. However, when the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 4 to 0, the abnormal winning determination is made. At the same time as the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed, the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 4 to 0. Alternatively, the abnormal winning determination may be performed after a predetermined time has elapsed since the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 4 to 0. Specifically, a predetermined time is set in the count timer when the value of the normal symbol process flag is changed from 4 to 0 (for example, immediately before or after step S179 in FIG. 32), and every timer interruption (every 2 ms). ) Count down the count timer. When it is determined that the value of the normal symbol process flag is not 4 in the award ball number addition process (N in step S363B), it is determined whether the count timer is 0. If the count timer is 0, step S364 is performed. The process of S365 is skipped and the process proceeds to the process of step S359. Even with such a configuration, it is possible to delay the timing for determining an abnormal winning with respect to the timing for closing the variable winning ball device 15.

  It should be noted that, even in the determination of an abnormal winning to the big winning opening, the timing for determining the abnormal winning by the same method can be delayed from the timing for closing the big winning opening (special variable winning ball apparatus 20). Specifically, when the value of the special symbol process flag is changed from 7 to 0, a predetermined time is set in the count timer, and the count timer is counted down every timer interrupt (every 2 ms). When it is determined in the prize ball number addition process that the value of the special symbol process flag is not 4 or more (N in step S362B), it is determined whether or not the count timer is 0. When the count timer is 0, step S364 is performed. , S365 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S359.

  If the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 4 in step S362B (N in step S362B) or the value of the normal symbol process flag is not 4 in step S363B (N in step S363B), prize ball payout is prohibited. The control to be performed may not be performed. As will be described later, when it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits an abnormal winning notification designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100, and the effect control microcomputer 100 receives an abnormal win. This is because it is considered that the generation of the prize ball based on the abnormal winning can be stopped to the minimum since the occurrence is notified.

  FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing the prize ball control process in step S342. In the prize ball control process, the game control microcomputer 560 checks the contents of the total prize ball number storage buffer (step S371). If the value is 0, the process ends. If it is not 0, it is confirmed whether or not the content of the total prize ball number storage buffer is smaller than the prize ball command maximum value (“15” in this example) (step S372). If the content of the total prize ball number storage buffer is equal to or greater than the prize ball command maximum value, the prize ball command maximum value is set in the prize ball number buffer (step S373). If the content of the total prize ball number storage buffer is smaller than the prize ball command maximum value, the content of the total prize ball number storage buffer is set in the prize ball number buffer (step S374). Then, the contents of the prize ball number buffer are set in the output port for outputting the prize ball number signal (step S375). Further, “1” is set to the bit of the prize ball REQ signal of the output port for outputting the prize ball REQ signal (step S376).

  A prize ball REQ signal is output by the processing of step S376. That is, the prize ball REQ signal is turned on (see FIG. 36). In addition, a prize ball number signal is output by the process of step S375 (see FIG. 36). In this embodiment, the maximum prize ball command value is “15”. Therefore, a prize ball number signal designating the maximum number of payouts of “15” is transmitted to the payout control board 37.

  When the winning ball number signal is transmitted, the game control microcomputer 560 subtracts the contents of the winning ball number buffer (the winning ball payout number commanded to the payout control means) from the contents of the total winning ball number storage buffer (step S377). ).

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the ON period of the prize ball REQ signal. Specifically, an initial value is set in the wait counter (step S378). Then, the value of the wait counter is decremented by 1 until the value of the wait counter becomes 0 (steps S379 and S380). When the value of the wait counter reaches 0, the on period is terminated.

  That is, “0” is set to the bit of the prize ball REQ signal of the output port for outputting the prize ball REQ signal (step S381), and 00 (H) is set to the output port for outputting the prize ball number signal. (Step S382).

  When the payout control microcomputer mounted on the payout board 37 receives the award ball number signal, it drives the payout device 97 so that the number of game balls specified by the award ball number signal is paid out.

  FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing the abnormal winning notification process in step S23. In the abnormal winning notification process, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether an abnormal notification prohibition flag is set (step S251). The abnormality notification prohibition flag is set in a main process executed when power supply to the gaming machine is started (see step S44 in FIG. 4). When the abnormality notification prohibition flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S255. If the abnormality notification prohibition flag is set, the value of the prohibition period timer set in step S45 is decremented by 1 (step S252). When the value of the prohibition period timer becomes 0, that is, when the prohibition period timer times out, the abnormality notification prohibition flag is reset (steps S253 and S254).

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 or more (step S255). When the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 or more (Y in step S255), the game is in a big hit game. If it is in such a state, there is a possibility that a game ball will win the big prize opening, so the process proceeds to the process of step S261 without performing the process of confirming the abnormal winning to the big prize opening.

  The state where the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 4 is a state where no big hit game is played. In this state, if there is a game ball winning at the big winning opening, it can be determined that the winning is an abnormal winning. Therefore, an abnormal winning confirmation process for the special winning opening shown below is performed.

  That is, if the value of the special symbol process flag is less than 4 (N in step S255), the game control microcomputer 560 loads the contents of the switch-on buffer into the register (step S256). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 takes the logical product of the content of the loaded switch-on buffer and the count switch input bit determination value (01 (H), see FIG. 40) (step S257). When the content of the switch-on buffer is 01 (H), that is, when the count switch 23 is on, the logical product operation result is 01 (H). When the count switch 23 is not turned on, the operation result of the logical product is 0 (00 (H)).

  If the result of the logical product is not 0 (N in step S258), it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred in the special winning opening, and control is performed to transmit an abnormal winning notification designation command to the effect control board 80 (step S258). S259, S260). That is, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the address of the abnormal winning notification designation command transmission table in the pointer (step S259), and executes the command setting process (step S260). On the other hand, if the result of the logical product is 0 (Y in step S258), it is determined that no abnormal winning in the special winning opening has occurred, and the process proceeds to step S261.

  In step S261, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether the value of the normal symbol process flag is 4 (step S261). The state where the value of the normal symbol process flag is 4 is a state where the normal electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) is opened and closed. If it is in such a state (Y in step S261), there is a possibility that the game ball may win the second start winning opening 14, so that an abnormal winning confirmation to the second starting winning opening 14 is not performed. The winning notification process is terminated.

  The state where the value of the normal symbol process flag is not 4 (N in step S261) is a state where the normal electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) is not opened or closed. If there is a game ball winning in the second start winning opening 14 in such a state, it can be determined that the winning is an abnormal winning. Therefore, the abnormal winning confirmation process to the second start winning opening 14 shown below is performed.

  That is, if the value of the normal symbol process flag is not 4 (N in step S261), the game control microcomputer 560 loads the contents of the switch-on buffer into the register (step S262). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 takes the logical product of the content of the loaded switch-on buffer and the second start port switch input bit determination value (80 (H), see FIG. 40) (step S263). When the content of the switch-on buffer is 80 (H), that is, when the second start port switch 14a is on, the logical product operation result is 80 (H). When the second start port switch 14a is not turned on, the logical product operation result is 0 (00 (H)).

  If the result of the logical product is not 0 (N in step S264), it is determined that an abnormal winning to the second start winning opening 14 has occurred, and control for transmitting an abnormal winning notification designating command to the effect control board 80 is performed. This is performed (steps S265 and S266). That is, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the address of the abnormal winning notification designation command transmission table in the pointer (step S265), and executes the command setting process (step S266). On the other hand, if the result of the logical product is 0 (Y in step S261), it is determined that no abnormal winning has occurred in the second start winning opening 14, and control for transmitting an abnormal winning notification designation command is performed. The abnormal winning notification process is terminated.

  When the count switch 23 is turned on in the state where the big hit game is not performed by the above processing, an abnormal winning notification designation command is transmitted. The abnormal winning notification designation command is also transmitted when the second start opening switch 14a is turned on while the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is not opened or closed.

  In addition, the process of steps S251 to S253 prohibits the start of abnormality notification when the production control microcomputer 100 is performing initialization notification. The production control microcomputer 100 continues to execute the initialization notification until the period corresponding to the prohibition period has elapsed since the start of the abnormality notification.

  In the process of step S255, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether or not an abnormal winning in the big winning opening has occurred based on the value of the special symbol process flag. Similarly, since it can be determined whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on one data, the determination process can be simplified. Further, as described above, since the big hit ending process is executed for a predetermined time after the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is closed, the game ball that has won the big winning opening immediately before the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is closed is special. After the value of the symbol process flag has returned to 0, it is prevented from being detected by the count switch 23, and an error is not notified even though it is a regular winning.

  Further, in the processing of step S261, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred in the second start winning opening 14 based on the value of the normal symbol process flag, so step S363B Similar to the above process, since it can be determined whether or not an abnormal winning has occurred based on one data, the determination process can be simplified. In addition, as described above, as a method of delaying the timing for determining an abnormal winning from the timing for closing the variable winning ball device 15, the variable winning ball device 15 is set a predetermined time before the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 4 to 0. Is closed, and when the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 4 to 0, the abnormal winning determination is made. Therefore, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is won at the second start winning opening 14 immediately before closing. The game ball is prevented from being detected by the second start switch 14a after the value of the normal symbol process flag returns to 0, and an error is reported even though it is a regular winning. There is nothing.

  As described above, the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 4 to 0 at the same time as the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is closed, and an abnormal prize is awarded after a lapse of a predetermined time after the value of the normal symbol process flag is switched from 4 to 0. You may make it perform determination. Also, in the determination of the abnormal winning to the big winning opening, the timing for determining the abnormal winning by the same method may be delayed from the timing for closing the big winning opening (special variable winning ball apparatus 20).

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing a main process executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80. The production control microcomputer 100 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). .

  Then, the production control microcomputer 100 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring the timer interrupt flag (step S702). When the timer interruption occurs, the production control microcomputer 100 sets a timer interruption flag in the timer interruption process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control microcomputer 100 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control microcomputer 100 first analyzes the received effect control command and executes a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704). Next, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, a 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 variable display device 9 is executed. Further, a random number update process for updating a counter value of a counter for generating a predetermined random number (for example, a random number for determining a stop symbol of a decorative symbol) is executed (step S706). Further, a notification control process for performing notification using an effect device such as the variable display device 9 is executed (step S707). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  FIG. 45 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a command reception buffer for storing the effect control command received from the game control microcomputer 560 of the main board 31. In this example, a command reception buffer of a ring buffer type capable of storing six 2-byte configuration effect control commands is used. Therefore, the command reception buffer is configured by a 12-byte area of reception command buffers 1 to 12. A command reception number counter indicating in which area the received command is stored is used. The command reception number counter takes a value from 0 to 11. The ring buffer format is not necessarily required.

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

  46 and 47 are flowcharts showing the command analysis process (step S704) in the main process. 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 microcomputer 100 checks the contents of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

  In the command analysis process, the production control microcomputer 100 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S611). If the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control microcomputer 100 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer (step S612).

  If the received effect control command is an effect control command (variation pattern command: 8000 (H) to 800D (H)) that specifies a change pattern (step S613), the effect control microcomputer 100 uses the command EXT. Data is stored in the fluctuation pattern data storage area in the RAM (step S614), and a fluctuation pattern reception flag is set (step S615). Then, the production control microcomputer 100 executes a decorative symbol determination process for determining a decorative symbol stop symbol based on the contents of the variation pattern command (step S616). In the decorative symbol determination process, if the content of the variation pattern command is a variation pattern that is dedicated to detachment, and if it is a variation pattern that does not involve reach, the detachment symbol of the non-reach symbol (split eyes) is determined as the decorative symbol stop symbol. To do. Further, when the content of the variation pattern command is a variation pattern dedicated to outliers and is a variation pattern with reach, the outlier symbol of the reach symbol is determined as the stop symbol of the ornament symbol. If the content of the variation pattern command is a variation pattern dedicated to winning, the winning symbol is determined as a stop symbol of the decorative symbol.

  If the received effect control command is an effect control command (design information designation command: 8C00 (H) to 8C02 (H)) that designates symbol information (Y in step S617), the effect control microcomputer 100 displays the symbol information. A symbol information reception flag is set according to the contents of the information specifying command (disconnected, normal jackpot, or probability variation jackpot) (step S618).

  If the received effect control command is an effect control command (start winning memory designation command: C00XX (H)) for designating the start winning memory number (Y in step S619), the effect control microcomputer 100 stores the start winning memory. Based on the starting winning memory number (holding memory number) designated by the designation command, the value of the effect side holding memory counter provided in the RAM is updated (step S620).

  If the received effect control command is an effect control command (fanfare command: A001 (H)) that specifies the start of a big hit (fanfare) (Y in step S621), the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the fanfare command. A fanfare reception flag indicating that this has been done is set (step S622).

  If the received effect control command is an effect control command (ending command: A301 (H)) for designating the end of jackpot (ending) (Y in step S623), the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the ending command. An ending reception flag indicating that this has been done is set (step S624).

  If the received production control command is a power-on designation command (initialization designation command: 9000 (H)) (Y in step S645 in FIG. 47), the production control microcomputer 100 has executed the initialization process. Is displayed on the variable display device 9 (step S646A). The initial screen includes an initial display of predetermined production symbols. Further, an initial notification flag is set (step S646B), and a value corresponding to the initial notification period value is set in the period timer (step S646C). The initial notification period is a period in which initialization notification is performed in response to reception of the initialization designation command. The production control microcomputer 100 ends the initialization notification when the initial notification period elapses. The initial notification period is the same as the prohibition period set by the game control microcomputer 560 in step S45. Therefore, the abnormality notification designation command is not received when the initialization notification is performed.

  If the received effect control command is a power failure recovery designation command (9200 (H)) (Y in step S647A), the effect control microcomputer 100 displays a predetermined power failure recovery screen (the game state continues). (Screen for displaying information for informing the player that the player is playing) is controlled (step S647B).

  If the received effect control command is an abnormal prize notification designation command (D000 (H)) (step S648), the effect control microcomputer 100 sets an abnormal prize notification designation command reception flag (step S649).

  If the received effect control command is another command (N in step S648), the effect control microcomputer 100 sets a flag corresponding to the received effect control command (step S650). For example, if the received effect control command is a decorative symbol stop designation command, a flag (confirmed command reception flag) corresponding to the command is set. Then, control goes to a step S611.

  FIG. 48 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process. In the effect control process, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs one of steps S800 to S808 according to the value of the effect 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 (fluctuation pattern command) specifying a fluctuation pattern has been received by the command reception interrupt process. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern reception flag indicating that a variation pattern command has been received is set. The variation pattern reception flag is set in step S615 in the command analysis process executed by the effect control microcomputer 100.

  Decoration symbol variation start processing (step S801): Control is performed so that the variation of the ornament symbol is started. In addition, a value corresponding to the variation time is set in the variation time timer, the process table to be used is selected, and the process timer setting value set at the beginning of the process table is set in the process timer.

  Decoration 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.

  Decoration symbol variation stop process (step S803): Control is performed to stop the variation of the ornament symbol and to derive and display the stop symbol (definite symbol) in response to the time-out of the variation time timer. Further, when the decorative symbol (and the normal symbol) stops at the winning symbol, the display content corresponding to the control during the opening / closing operation of the variable winning ball device 15 is displayed on the display screen of the variable display device 9.

  Big hit game transition processing (step S804): If the display result of the special symbol is a big hit, control is performed to shift to the big hit game (shift to the big hit display processing), and if the display result of the special symbol is out of place, a predetermined Based on the establishment of the above condition, control is executed not to shift to the big hit game (to shift to the variation pattern command reception waiting process).

  Big hit display process (step S805): After the end of the variation time, the big hit display is controlled. For example, when a fanfare command designating the start of a big hit is received, a fanfare effect is executed.

  In-round processing (step S806): Display control during round is performed. For example, when a command for opening a special prize opening indicating that the special prize opening is open is received, display control of the number of rounds is performed.

  Post-round processing (step S807): Display control between rounds is performed. For example, when a command after opening the big prize opening indicating that the special prize opening is after being opened (closed) is received, an interval display or the like is performed.

  Big hit end effect processing (step S808): Control of the big hit end display after the end of the big hit game is performed. For example, when an ending command designating the end of the big hit is received, the ending display content (notification of the end of the big hit game) is displayed. In addition, if the display result of the special symbol is a probable big hit, execute a control to continue to the big hit game (shift to the big hit game transition process), and if the display result of the special symbol is a normal big hit, the predetermined condition is satisfied Based on this, control is performed so as not to shift to the big hit game (to shift to the variation pattern command reception waiting process).

  FIG. 49 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of 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, each variation mode constituting the variation pattern is described. The process timer set value is set with a change time in the change mode. The effect control microcomputer 100 refers to the process table, and performs control for variably displaying the decorative symbols in the variation mode set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value.

  Similarly to the control based on the display control execution data, the production control microcomputer 100 controls the lighting state of various lamps based on the lamp control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value, and the sound number Data is output to the audio output board 70.

  The process data shown in FIG. 49 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. A process table is prepared for each variation pattern.

  FIG. 50 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the production control microcomputer 100 checks whether or not the variation pattern reception flag is set (step S811). If it has been set, the flag is reset (step S812). Then, the production control microcomputer 100 determines the variation pattern of the decorative design based on the contents (variation pattern, variation time) designated by the variation pattern command (step S813). Thereafter, the production control microcomputer 100 changes the value of the production control process flag to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S814).

  FIG. 51 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process. In the decorative symbol variation start process, the effect control microcomputer 100 first selects a process table corresponding to the variation pattern (step S821). Then, the production control microcomputer 100 starts a process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table (step S822).

  Then, the production control microcomputer 100 sets the content of the process data 1 (execution of display control) on condition that the abnormality notification flag indicating that the abnormal winning notification is being performed is not set (N in step S823). According to the data 1, the lamp control execution data 1, and the sound number data 1), the control of the rendering device (the variable display device 9 as the rendering component, various lamps as the rendering component, and the speaker 27 as the rendering component) is executed ( Step S824). For example, in order to display an image corresponding to the variation pattern on the variable display device 9, a command is output to the VDP 109. 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.

  When the abnormality notification flag is set (Y in step S823), the effect control microcomputer 100 executes control of the effect device according to the contents of the process data 1 excluding the sound number data 1 (step S825). . In other words, when the abnormality notification flag is set, when a new variable display of a decorative symbol is started, a sound effect corresponding to the variable display is not executed, but an abnormal winning notification is made. The corresponding sound output is continued. If the sound effect sound effect according to the variable display and the alarm sound (notification sound) according to the abnormal winning notification are set in different channels, and these sounds can be output simultaneously, the step There is no need to separate the processing of S824 and step S825.

  In addition, when performing the processing of step S825, the production control microcomputer 100 does not simply output a command based on the display control execution data 1 to the VDP 109, but also outputs a command for performing “superimposed display” to the VDP 109. To do. In other words, the variable display device 9 is controlled so that the display at that time (notification of abnormal winning is made) and the display effect image of the decorative symbol variable display are simultaneously displayed on the variable display device 9. . That is, when the abnormality notification flag is set, when a new variable display of a decorative design is started, only the display effect production according to the variable display is not executed, but an abnormal winning Notification according to the notification is continued.

  Then, a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command is set in the variation time timer (step S826), and the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation process (step S802). (Step S827).

  FIG. 52 is a flowchart showing the decorative symbol variation process (step S802) in the effect control process. In the decorative symbol variation process, the production control microcomputer 100 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S841) and decrements the value of the variation time timer by -1 (1 subtraction) (step S842). When the process timer times out (step S843), the process data is switched. That is, the process timer setting value set next in the process table is set in the process timer (step S844). Further, on the condition that the abnormality informing flag is not set, the control state for the rendering device is changed based on the display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data set next (step S845A). , S845B).

  When the abnormality notification flag is set, control of the effect device is executed according to the contents of process data i (i is any one of 2 to n) (however, excluding sound number data i) (step S845A). , S845C). Therefore, when the abnormality notification flag is set, the sound production according to the notification of the abnormal winning is continued, not the sound effect according to the variable display of the decorative symbol is executed.

  In addition, when the process of step S845C is performed, the CPU 101 for effect control does not simply output a command based on the display control execution data i to the VDP 109, but also outputs a command for performing “superimposed display” to the VDP 109. . Therefore, when the abnormality notification flag is set, not only the display effect effect according to the variable display of the decorative symbol is executed, but also the notification according to the notification of the abnormal winning is continued.

  If the variation time timer has timed out (step S846), the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the decorative symbol variation stop process (step S803) (step S848). 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 S847), the process proceeds to step S848. Even if the variation time timer has not timed out, if the symbol confirmation designation command is received, the process shifts to control to stop variation.For example, a variation pattern command indicating a long variation time due to noise between substrates is received. Even in such a case, the variation of the decorative symbol can be ended when the regular variation time has elapsed (when the variation of the normal symbol is finished).

  FIG. 53 is a flowchart showing a decorative symbol variation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process. In the decorative symbol variation stopping process, the effect control microcomputer 100 checks whether or not the symbol information reception flag is set (step S850). The symbol information reception flag is set in step S618. The fact that the symbol information reception flag is set means that it is the timing for starting the variation of the special symbol. In this embodiment, since the normal symbol stops at the winning symbol and the opening / closing operation of the variable winning ball device 15 is performed, the variation of the special symbol is started when the second start winning is generated. The symbol information reception flag is not set before the fixed command reception flag indicating that the stop symbol of the normal symbol is fixed (the decoration symbol stop designation command has been received) is set.

  When the symbol information reception flag is not set (N in Step S850), the effect control microcomputer 100 checks whether or not the confirmation command reception flag is set (Step S851). If the confirmed command reception flag is set (Y in step S851), the confirmed command reception flag is reset (step S852), and the stop symbol of the decorative symbol determined and stored in the command analysis process is derived and displayed. Control is performed (step S853).

  In this embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 performs control to stop and display the decorative symbols in response to the reception of the symbol confirmation designation command (decorative symbol stop designation command) from the game control microcomputer 560. However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration, and control for stopping and displaying decorative symbols may be performed based on the time-up of the variable time timer.

  When the stop symbol of the decorative symbol derived and displayed in step S853 is an off symbol (N in step S854), the effect control microcomputer 100 resets a predetermined flag (eg, symbol information reception flag) (step S853). In step S855, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S856).

  If the decorative symbol stop symbol derived and displayed in step S853 is a winning symbol (Y in step S854), the normal symbol stop symbol is also derived and displayed, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 can be opened and closed. Executed. At this time, the production control microcomputer 100 displays the display content corresponding to the control during the opening / closing operation of the variable winning ball device 15 on the variable display device 9 (step S857). For example, an instruction sentence such as “Let the electric Chu (variable winning ball device 15) win the prize!” On the screen of the variable display device 9 is displayed.

  If the symbol information reception flag is set in step S850 (Y in step S850), the effect control microcomputer 100 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the big hit game transition process (step S804). (Step S858).

  Note that even if the decorative symbol (and the normal symbol) becomes a winning symbol (Y in step S854) and the variable winning ball device 15 performs the opening / closing operation, there is a possibility that the game ball will not win the second start winning port 14. There is also. In this case, the variation of the special symbol is not started, and there is a possibility that the symbol information reception flag is not set, and the processing is stopped in the decorative symbol variation stopping process (N may be always N in step S850). . Therefore, when it is determined that the decorative symbol is a winning symbol (Y in step S854), the timer is started to measure the time, and when the symbol information reception flag is not set even if the predetermined time has elapsed, While resetting a predetermined flag, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  In this embodiment, since it is configured such that it is difficult to win a game ball in the first start winning opening 13, it is unlikely that a game ball will win the first start winning opening 13. Sex is not zero. If a game ball wins the first start winning opening 13, a special effect such as a premium effect is executed, and the effect control process is shifted to the big hit game transition process.

  FIG. 54 is a flowchart showing the big hit game transition process (step S804) in the effect control process. In the big hit game transition process, the production control microcomputer 100 first checks whether or not the display result of the special symbol is a big hit (probability big hit, normal big hit) (step S861). Whether or not the display result of the special symbol is a big hit can be confirmed by the content of the symbol information reception flag.

  When the display result of the special symbol is out of place (N in step S861), the production control microcomputer 100 confirms the value of the production-side reserved memory counter to determine whether the number of special symbols held is 0. Whether or not is confirmed (step S862). When the number of reserved symbols stored in the special symbol is 0 (Y in step S862), the effect control microcomputer 100 checks whether or not the current gaming state is a certain change state (step S863). Whether or not the current game state is a probability change state can be confirmed by whether or not the effect side probability change flag set / reset in the jackpot end effect process (step S808) is set. If the current game state is not a probable change state (N in Step S863), control is performed so as not to shift to the big hit game.

  When the display result of the special symbol is out of place, it is not possible to immediately shift to the big hit game. Even if the display result of the special symbol is out of order, if the number of stored special symbols is not 0, the change of the special symbol is started again, and the display result of the special symbol is determined to be a big hit with a high probability. However, if the number of reserved symbols stored in the special symbol is 0, the variation of the special symbol does not start immediately and the big hit does not occur again. Further, even if the number of stored special symbols is 0, if the game state is in a probable change state, the normal symbol is a hit and the variable winning ball device 15 is opened, and the game ball is placed in the second start winning port 14. Wins and the display result of the special symbol is a big hit with a high probability based on the start winning. However, if the game state is not a probable change state, there is a low possibility that the normal symbol will win, so the variable winning ball apparatus 15 Is unlikely to be opened immediately. Therefore, when the above conditions (N in step S861, Y in S862, N in S863) are satisfied, control is performed so as not to shift to the big hit game.

  Specifically, the production control microcomputer 100 resets a predetermined flag (symbol information reception flag, variation pattern reception flag, confirmation command reception flag, etc. if set) (step S864), and the production control process. The flag value is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S865).

  If it is determined in step S861 that the display result of the special symbol is a big hit (Y in step S861), control for shifting to the big hit game is executed. Specifically, the production control microcomputer 100 waits until the fanfare reception flag is set (step S866). When the fanfare reception flag is set (Y in step S866), the effect control microcomputer 100 selects process data corresponding to the fanfare effect (step S867) and starts a process timer (step S868). Then, the effect control microcomputer 100 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S805) (step S869).

  FIG. 55 is a flowchart showing the jackpot display process (step S805) in the effect control process. In the big win display process, the production control microcomputer 100 first checks whether or not the big prize opening open flag indicating that the big prize opening open command has been received is set (step S901). The special winning opening open flag is set in the command analysis process (see step S650). When the big prize opening open flag is not set (N in step S901), the production control microcomputer 100 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S902), and the production device (in accordance with the contents of the process data n) Control of the variable display device 9, the speaker 27, the lamps 28a to 28c, etc.) is executed (step S903). For example, a battle effect in which characters fight with each other is executed.

  Next, the production control microcomputer 100 checks whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S904), and if the process timer has timed out, switches the process data (step S905). That is, the process data (display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data) set next in the process table is switched. Then, the process timer setting value in the next process data is set in the process timer and the process timer is started (step S906).

  When the big prize opening open flag is set (Y in step S901), the production control microcomputer 100 produces an in-round production (with a battle production) based on the contents of the 15 round grand prize opening open command. An effect for executing round display according to the number of rounds is selected (step S907). Next, the special winning opening open flag is reset (step S908), and process data corresponding to the effect during the round is selected (step S909). Then, the process timer is started (step S910), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the mid-round process (step S806) (step S911).

  FIG. 56 is a flowchart showing the in-round processing (step S806) in the effect control process. In the processing during the round, the production control microcomputer 100 first checks whether the production control microcomputer 100 has set the flag after opening the big prize opening indicating that the command after opening the special prize opening has been received. (Step S921). The flag after the special winning opening is opened is set by the command analysis process (see step S650). When the flag after the big prize opening is not set (N in step S921), the production control microcomputer 100 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S922), and the production device ( Control of the variable display device 9, the speaker 27, the lamps 28a to 28c, etc.) is executed (step S923). For example, while performing a battle effect, the effect which displays the character which shows the number of rounds, another character, etc. is performed.

  Next, the production control microcomputer 100 checks whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S924), and if the process timer has timed out, switches the process data (step S925). That is, the process data (display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data) set next in the process table is switched. Then, the process timer set value in the next process data is set in the process timer and the process timer is started (step S926).

  When the flag after opening the big prize opening is set in step S921 (Y in step S921), the production control microcomputer 100 determines the interval production (the number of rounds together with the battle production) based on the contents of the command after the big prize opening. Is selected (step S928). Then, the effect control microcomputer 100 resets the flag after the special winning opening is opened (step S928), and selects process data corresponding to the selected interval effect (step S929). Then, the process timer is started (step S930), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the round post-processing (step S807) (step S931).

  FIG. 57 is a flowchart showing the round post-processing (step S807) in the effect control process. In the round post-processing, the effect control microcomputer 100 first checks whether or not the ending flag is set (step S940). When the ending flag is not set (N in step S940), the production control microcomputer 100 determines whether or not the big prize opening open flag indicating that the big prize opening open command is received is set. Confirmation is made (step S941). When the special winning opening open flag is not set (N in step S941), the production control microcomputer 100 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S942), and the production device (in accordance with the contents of the process data n) Control of the variable display device 9, the speaker 27, the lamps 28a to 28c, etc.) is executed (step S943).

  Next, the production control microcomputer 100 checks whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S944), and if the process timer has timed out, switches the process data (step S945). That is, the process data (display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data) set next in the process table is switched. Then, the process timer set value in the next process data is set in the process timer, and the process timer is started (step S946).

  When the big prize opening open flag is set (Y in step S941), the production control microcomputer 100 resets the big prize opening open flag (step S947) and process data corresponding to the production during the round. Is selected (step S948). Then, the process timer is started (step S949), and the value of the effect control process flag is set to a value corresponding to the in-round process (step S806) (step S950).

  When the ending reception flag is set in step S940 (Y in step S940), the production control microcomputer 100 resets the ending reception flag (step S951), and displays the ending display content (notification of the end of the big hit). It is displayed (step S952). Then, the effect control microcomputer 100 sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the jackpot end effect process (step S808) (step S953).

  FIG. 58 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end effect process (step S808) in the effect control process. In the jackpot end effect process, first, the effect control microcomputer 100 checks whether or not the display result of the special symbol is a normal jackpot (step S971). Whether or not the display result of the special symbol is usually a big hit can be confirmed by the content of the symbol information reception flag. The RAM is provided with a previous flag area for storing the previous symbol information reception flag and a current flag area for storing the current symbol information reception flag. Then, the content of the symbol information reception flag indicating the display result of the special symbol is shifted from the current flag region to the previous flag region before the big hit end effect process is started after the result of Y in step S940, and the current flag Clear the area. In the command analysis process, when a symbol information designation command is received (Y in step S617), a symbol information reception flag is set in the current flag area in step S618. In the process of step S971, the contents of the symbol information reception flag are stored in the current flag area in the command analysis process based on the reception of the next symbol information reception flag (see step S618). The determination in step S971 is performed based on the contents of the symbol information reception flag. Then, when the content of the symbol information reception flag is stored in the current flag area based on the reception of the next symbol information reception flag, it is determined in step S977 that the symbol information reception flag has been set. That is, in step S977, it is determined whether or not the symbol information reception flag is set in the current flag area.

  In step S971, when the display result of the special symbol is a normal big hit (Y in step S971), the production control microcomputer 100 sets the production side probability variation flag indicating that the gaming state is the certain variation state. If yes, the effect side probability variation flag is reset (step S972). Then, it is confirmed whether or not the number of special symbols reserved is 0 (step S973). Here, if the display result of the special symbol is a normal big hit, the probability variation state ends and the normal gaming state is entered (see steps S473 and S475). When the number of special symbols held is 0, the special symbol change is not started immediately and the big hit does not occur again. Accordingly, in such a case (Y in step S971, Y in S972), a predetermined flag (a variation pattern reception flag, a confirmation command reception flag, etc. if set) is reset (step S974), and the effect control process The flag value is set to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S975).

  If the display result of the special symbol is not a normal big hit but a probability big hit (N in step S971), the production control microcomputer 100 displays the production side certain variation flag when the production side certain variation flag is not set. Set (step S976), the process proceeds to step S977. On the other hand, if the number of reserved special symbols is not 0 (N in Step S973), the production control microcomputer 100 proceeds to Step S977. Then, the production control microcomputer 100 stands by until the symbol information reception flag is set in the current flag area (step S977). That is, it waits until the next special symbol change is started. When the symbol information reception flag is set (Y in step S977), the effect control microcomputer 100 sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the big hit game transition process (step S804) (step S804). S978).

  As described above, when the decorative symbol (and the normal symbol) are out-of-band symbols (N in step S854), the process shifts to the variation pattern command reception waiting process, and the variation of the decorative symbol is resumed (step S856). Even when the decorative symbol (and the normal symbol) is a winning symbol (Y in step S854), if the game ball does not win the variable winning ball device 15 (second start winning port 14), it waits for the reception of the variation pattern command. The process is shifted to the process, and the variation of the decorative design is resumed (step S856). If the decorative symbol (and the normal symbol) is a winning symbol (Y in step S854) and a game ball is won in the variable winning ball device 15 (second start winning port 14) (Y in step S858), a big hit The process proceeds to a game transition process (step S859). In the jackpot game transition process, if the display result of the special symbol is out of place (N in Step S861), the number of reserved symbols stored in the special symbol is 0 (Y in Step S862), and the gaming state is not a certain change state ( In step S863 N), the process shifts to a variation pattern command reception waiting process to resume the variation of the decorative symbols (step S856). In the big hit game transition process, if the display result of the special symbol is a big hit (Y in step S861), the big hit display process is started and the big hit game is started (step S869). In the big hit end effect process, if the display result of the special symbol is a normal big hit (Y in step S971) and the number of reserved symbols stored in the special symbol is 0 (Y in step S973), the process of waiting for the variation pattern command is received. To change the decorative pattern to resume (step S975). Also, in the big hit end effect processing, when the display result of the special symbol is a probable big hit (N in step S971), or even when the special symbol display result is a normal big hit, the number of stored special symbols is not 0 (N of step S973), it shifts to the big hit game transfer process (step S978).

  FIG. 59 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a notification screen displayed on the variable display device 9. FIG. 59A shows an example of an initial screen displayed on the variable display device 9 by the production control microcomputer 100 in response to reception of the initialization designation command. FIG. 59B shows an example of a power failure recovery screen displayed on the variable display device 9 by the production control microcomputer 100 in response to reception of a power failure recovery designation command. FIG. 59C shows an example of an abnormality notification screen displayed on the variable display device 9 in response to the reception of the abnormal winning notification designation command by the production control microcomputer 100, and the variation of the decorative design starts. Even if it is done, it is shown that the display of the abnormality notification screen is continued (see the right side of FIG. 59C).

  FIG. 60 is a flowchart showing the notification control process in step S707. In the notification control process, the production control microcomputer 100 checks whether or not the initial notification flag is set (step S1001). The initial notification flag is set when an initialization designation command is received from the game control microcomputer 560 (see step S646B in FIG. 47). If the initial notification flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S1006. If the initial notification flag is set, the value of the period timer set in step S646C is decremented by 1 (step S1002). Then, when the value of the period timer becomes 0, that is, when the initial notification period has elapsed, the initial notification flag is reset (steps S1003 and S1004).

  Furthermore, the production control microcomputer 100 outputs a command for deleting the initial screen or the power failure recovery screen in the variable display device 9 to the VDP 109 (step S1005). The VDP 109 erases the initial screen or the power failure recovery screen from the variable display device 9 in response to the command.

  In step S1006, the production control microcomputer 100 checks whether or not the abnormal winning notification designation command reception flag indicating that the abnormal winning notification designation command has been received is set. If not set, the process is terminated. If the abnormal winning notification designation command reception flag is set, the abnormal winning notification designation command reception flag is reset (step S1007), and the variable display device 9 has an abnormality with respect to the screen displayed at that time. A command to superimpose and display the notification screen is output to the VDP 109 (step S1008). The VDP 109 superimposes and displays the abnormality notification screen on the variable display device 9 in response to the command (see FIG. 59C).

  Further, the production control microcomputer 100 outputs sound data indicating the sound output in response to the abnormal winning notification to the sound output board 70 (step S1009). The voice synthesis IC 703 mounted on the voice output board 70 reads data corresponding to the input sound data from the voice data ROM 704 and outputs a voice signal to the speaker 27 side according to the read data. Therefore, sound output (output of abnormal notification sound) corresponding to the notification of abnormal winning is performed thereafter. Then, the production control microcomputer 100 sets an abnormality notification flag indicating that abnormality notification is being performed (step S1010).

  FIG. 61 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the situation of the display effect in the variable display device 9 and the sound effect by the speaker 27. FIG. 61 (A) shows an example when the decorative display is variably displayed on the variable display device 9. FIG. 61 (B) shows an example in which initialization notification is performed in the variable display device 9.

  FIG. 61 (C) shows an example in which abnormality notification is performed in the variable display device 9 and an abnormality notification sound is output by the speaker 27. When receiving the abnormal prize notification designation command from the game control microcomputer 560, the production control microcomputer 100 performs control to display the abnormality notification screen on the variable display device 9, and outputs the abnormality notification sound from the speaker 27. I do. Further, even when the variable display of the decorative design is started in response to the reception of the variation pattern command, the display of the abnormality notification screen on the variable display device 9 and the output of the abnormality notification sound from the speaker 27 are continued. In addition, even when the variable display of the decorative symbols ends, the display of the abnormality notification screen on the variable display device 9 and the output of the abnormality notification sound from the speaker 27 are continued. Note that the production control microcomputer 100 does not execute the control for erasing the abnormality notification screen and the control for stopping the output of the abnormality notification sound, so the display of the abnormality notification screen on the variable display device 9 and the abnormality notification sound from the speaker 27 are not performed. The output continues until the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped. However, the production control microcomputer 100 stops the display of the abnormality notification screen and the output of the abnormality notification sound when a predetermined time has elapsed after the display of the abnormality notification screen and the output of the abnormality notification sound have started. You may control.

  In this embodiment, the abnormality notification is made by the variable display device 9 and the speaker 27. However, the abnormality notification may be performed using a lamp / LED. In that case, when receiving the abnormal winning notification designation command, the production control microcomputer 100 controls the lamp / LED to blink in a manner different from that in the normal state (when no abnormal winning has occurred). .

  Further, in this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 does not detect an abnormal prize and does not detect an abnormal prize for a predetermined period after the power supply to the game machine is started (a period during which the initialization notification is executed). The abnormal winning notification designating command is not transmitted from the microcomputer 560. However, the game control microcomputer 560 has a special symbol process flag value other than a predetermined value (4 in this embodiment) when the value of the special symbol process flag is less than a predetermined value (4 in this embodiment). In such a case, the abnormal prize is always detected, and if the production control microcomputer 100 receives an abnormal prize notification designation command within a predetermined period after the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the abnormal prize is given. The notification may not be performed.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 sets in advance the random number value (a big hit determination random number value and a normal symbol determination random number value) extracted when a start winning occurs. The determined values are compared, and based on the fact that they match, it is determined that the winning combination (special symbol big hit, normal symbol hit) is determined (steps S313, S317, S55, S56, S113, S124, S125), Control for releasing the variable winning devices (special variable winning device 20, variable winning ball device 15) is executed (steps S304 to S306, step S104), but when a predetermined condition is satisfied (Y in step S81, step S91). Y), it is assumed that the random value matches the judgment value regardless of the random value (that is, 100%). Since it is configured to execute control to open the variable winning device (determined as a win by probability), it corresponds to when the extracted random number value does not match the preset judgment value (when it is out of place) The processing itself is no longer necessary, and the program capacity can be reduced and the processing load can be reduced. For example, since the special symbol is 100% big hit, it is sufficient to automatically set the big hit flag, and it is not necessary to check whether or not the big hit flag is determined and set the big hit flag. Further, since the normal symbol is per 100%, it is sufficient to automatically set the flag for the normal symbol, and there is no need to set the flag for the normal symbol after confirming whether the symbol is determined to be a hit. As a result, it is possible to reduce the program capacity and the processing load.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, since it is configured to determine that it is a hit with a probability of 100% on the condition that the state has been shifted to the probability variation state (steps S81, S85, S86, S91, S95, S96), When the probability variation state occurs, the hit is continuously generated at a high rate. As a result, the fun of the game is increased and the interest of the game is improved.

  Further, in this embodiment, since the initialization notification is given priority over the abnormality notification, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the initialization notification is difficult to recognize. That is, the initialization notification is performed prominently. The game control microcomputer 560 transmits an initialization designation command when a user reset that causes the program to start executing from the top address (for example, address 0000) occurs even when power supply to the game machine is started. As a cause of the occurrence of the user reset, for example, in the case where the watchdog timer is configured to be used, there is a case where the watchdog timer has timed out due to an illegal act that prevents the smooth progress of the program. Such a fraudulent act is likely to occur when, for example, a normal symbol hit symbol is determined based on a normal symbol hit determination random number. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is initialized, and a counter for generating a random number for normal symbol determination is initialized, and it is easy to receive an illegal act that makes it easy to grasp the count value of the counter. By making the initialization notice conspicuous as in this embodiment, it is possible to easily grasp from the outside of the gaming machine that the gaming control microcomputer 560 has been initialized. Is easily recognized.

  In the above embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 ends the initialization notification when a predetermined period has elapsed (see steps S1001 to S1005), but ends the initialization notification at another timing. May be. For example, the initialization notification is ended when the decorative symbol variable display is started for the first time after the initialization notification is started, or the abnormal winning notification designation command is received before the decorative symbol variable display is started. Sometimes the initialization notification may be terminated. Alternatively, the initialization notification may be terminated when the customer waiting demonstration designation command is received or when the first effect control command other than the customer waiting demonstration designation command is received after the initialization notification is started. That is, it is preferable that the initialization notification is continued only for a period sufficient for the game store clerk or the like to recognize the initialization notification.

  In the above embodiment, it is determined whether or not it is the timing of occurrence of an abnormal winning at the big winning opening based on whether the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 or more in step S362B in FIG. 41 and step S255 in FIG. However, when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 (during the execution of the pre-opening process for the big prize opening), the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is not yet released, so the special symbol process It may be determined whether or not it is the timing of occurrence of an abnormal prize based on whether or not the value of the flag is 5 or more.

  Further, in the above embodiment, when an abnormal winning occurs (when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4 or more and the value of the normal symbol process flag is other than 3), one game ball is the big winning mouth or the second winning ball. If the winning prize opening 14 is won, it has been determined that an abnormal winning has occurred. However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. If the winning opening 14 is won, it may be determined that an abnormal winning has occurred. For example, it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred when it is determined that five game balls have accumulated in the big winning opening when they are not in the big hit game. Further, when it is determined that two game balls have accumulated in the second start winning opening 14 when the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is not in the open / close operation, it is determined that an abnormal winning has occurred.

  In the above-described embodiment, the abnormal winning notification of the same content is performed both when an abnormal winning at the big winning opening occurs and when an abnormal winning at the second starting winning opening 14 occurs. You may make it perform a prize alert | report. Specifically, an abnormal winning notification designation command transmitted when an abnormal winning at the big winning opening occurs and an abnormal winning notification designation command transmitted when an abnormal winning at the second start winning opening 14 occur are different. A command is used (the address of the command transmission table set in step S259 and the address of the command transmission table set in step S265 are different addresses). Then, the production control microcomputer 100 executes different abnormal winning notifications depending on the type of the abnormal winning notification designation command from the gaming control microcomputer 560. For example, a different notification sound is generated when an abnormal winning at the big winning opening occurs and when an abnormal winning at the second starting winning opening 14 occurs. Or, when an abnormal winning at the big winning opening occurs, the abnormal notification is made with a loud sound.

  In the above embodiment, the winning probability of the special symbol is 95% when the gaming state is the normal gaming state, and the winning probability of the special symbol is 100 when the gaming state is the probabilistic state. However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration, and the winning probability of the special symbol may be always 100% regardless of whether the gaming state is the normal gaming state or the probability variation state. That is, the special symbol may always be a big hit if the normal symbol is won and the variable winning ball device 15 is opened to generate the second start winning. In this case, the process of checking the gaming state and switching the jackpot determination table and the process of setting the jackpot flag are unnecessary. Further, the process of confirming whether or not the big hit is made by the big hit flag (for example, steps S57 and S233) is also unnecessary. Therefore, it is possible to further reduce the program capacity and the processing load.

  When the winning probability of the special symbol is 100%, the big hit determination random number itself may be eliminated and the big hit determination process may be omitted. In the case of such a configuration, since the big hit is fixed when the special symbol start winning occurs, the big hit flag may be set when the special symbol starting win occurs. In this case, when the variation of the special symbol is finished and the special symbol is stopped, it is confirmed that the big hit flag is set. Alternatively, the big hit flag may not be set when a special symbol start winning occurs. In this case, when the variation of the special symbol is finished and the special symbol is stopped, the process is automatically shifted to the pre-opening process for the big prize opening. According to such a configuration, it is possible to further reduce the program capacity and the processing load.

  In the above embodiment, the variation pattern that can specify the variation time of the special symbol is one type, and the variation time of the special symbol is also constant, but the variation pattern that can identify the variation time of the special symbol is A plurality of types may be provided, and a variation pattern corresponding to the result of jackpot determination or the result of jackpot type may be selected in the special symbol variation pattern setting process. Also, a variation pattern command that can identify the variation pattern determined in the special symbol variation pattern determination process is transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100, and the effect control microcomputer 100 identifies the variation pattern (variation specified by the variation pattern command). An effect according to (time) may be executed.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
In the gaming machine shown in the first embodiment, in a normal game, it is difficult for a game ball to win in the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14, and the decorative pattern is adjusted in accordance with the variation of the normal pattern. The special gaming machine is configured to open the special variable winning device 20 with a special symbol as a big hit in conjunction with the normal symbol and the decorative symbol when the normal symbol and the decorative symbol are hit. On the other hand, in the gaming machine shown in the second embodiment, in a normal game, when the game ball is won at the first start winning opening 13 and the second starting winning opening 14, and the normal symbol is hit, the second start winning opening is obtained. 14 is a general gaming machine configured to make it easier for a game ball to win, to change the decorative symbol in accordance with the change of the special symbol, and to open the special variable winning device 20 when the special symbol and the decorative symbol become a big hit. (A number of gaming machines installed in amusement stores). Hereinafter, the configuration of such a gaming machine will be described.

  FIG. 62 is a flowchart showing special symbol normal processing in the second embodiment. In the special symbol normal process shown in FIG. 62, the processes in steps S51 to S55, S57, and S60 to S63 are the same as the special symbol normal process shown in FIG. To do. On the other hand, in the special symbol normal process shown in FIG. 13, it is determined whether or not to make a big hit in the big hit determination process (step S56), and whether or not to make a promising big hit in the process of determining the big hit type (steps S58 and S59). However, the special symbol normal process shown in FIG. 62 is configured to determine whether or not to make a big hit in the big hit determination process (step S56A) and whether or not to make a big hit type (whether to make a probable big hit). ing. Therefore, the processes of steps S58 and S59 in FIG. 13 are omitted. Also, the jackpot type determination random number is omitted.

  FIG. 63 is an explanatory diagram of an example of the big hit determination table according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 63, in the second embodiment, the jackpot determination random number value is updated in the range of 0 to 65535. When the gaming state is the normal gaming state, as shown in FIG. 63 (A), when the read jackpot determination random number value is 0 to 99, it is determined as “normal jackpot” and read. When the jackpot determination random value is a value between 100 and 199, it is determined as “probable variation jackpot”, and when the read jackpot determination random value is a value between 200 and 65535, it is determined as “out of range”. That is, in the normal jackpot determination table, a value of 0 to 199 in the update range 0 to 65535 of the jackpot determination random value is set as the jackpot determination value. Therefore, in this embodiment, the probability of being determined to be a big hit in the big hit determination in the normal gaming state (a special symbol winning probability) is about 1/328. When the big hit determination random number value is 0 to 99, it is normally determined to be a big hit, and when it is 100 to 199, it is determined to be a promiscuous big hit. / 2 (= 50%). That is, the probability (probability change determination rate) determined to be a probable big hit is 50%.

  On the other hand, when the gaming state is a probable change state, as shown in FIG. 63 (B), when the read jackpot determination random number value is 0 to 999, it is determined as “normal jackpot” and read. When the jackpot determination random number value is 1000 to 1999, it is determined as “probable variation jackpot”, and when the jackpot determination random number value is 2000 to 65535, it is determined as “out of range”. That is, in the normal big hit determination table, a value of 0 to 1999 is set as the big hit determination value in the update range 0 to 65535 of the big hit determination random value. Therefore, in this embodiment, the probability of being determined to be a big hit in the big hit determination in the normal gaming state (a special symbol winning probability) is about 1/33. When the big hit determination random number value is 0 to 999, it is normally determined as a big hit, and when it is 1000 to 1999, it is determined as a promiscuous big hit. / 2 (= 50%). That is, the probability (probability change determination rate) determined to be a probable big hit is 50%.

  In the probability variation jackpot determination table shown in FIG. 63 (B), the jackpot determination process (step S56A) is not determined with a probability of 100%, so the specific configuration of the jackpot determination process (step S56A) is as shown in FIG. And different. Specifically, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the game state is a probable change state, and when the game state is the normal game state, selects the normal time big hit determination table shown in FIG. When it is in the probability variation state, the probability variation big hit determination table shown in FIG. 63 (B) is selected. Then, the determination value set in the selected jackpot determination table is compared with the jackpot determination random value, and it is determined whether or not the jackpot is determined to be a jackpot and the probability variation jackpot. In either case, it is confirmed whether or not a big hit is determined. If it is determined that a big hit is determined, a big hit flag is set.

  FIG. 64 is a flowchart showing special symbol variation pattern setting processing in the second embodiment. In the first embodiment, the variation pattern of the special symbol is one type (the variation time of the special symbol is constant). However, in the second embodiment, a plurality of special symbol variation patterns are provided, and the special symbol variation pattern is provided. Select the variation pattern (variation time) in the setting process. Note that the variation pattern selected in the special symbol variation pattern setting process is a variation pattern dedicated to outliers, a variation pattern of normal variation in the normal gaming state, a variation pattern of normal variation in the probability variation state, and a normal gaming state It is also assumed that a plurality of types of reach variation patterns are provided in the probability variation state, and that a plurality of types of reach variation patterns are provided as variation patterns dedicated to big hits.

  In the special symbol variation pattern setting process, the game control microcomputer 560 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S201). When the big hit flag is set (Y in step S201), the game control microcomputer 560 decides to use the big hit variation pattern determination table (step S202).

  When the big hit flag is not set (N in step S201), the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the current game state is a probable change state (step S203). Whether or not the gaming state is a probability variation state is confirmed by whether or not the probability variation flag is set. When the gaming state is not the probability variation state but the normal gaming state (N in step S203), it is determined to use the normal time deviation variation pattern determination table used in the normal gaming state (step S204).

  On the other hand, when the gaming state is the probability variation state (Y in step S203), it is determined to use the variation pattern determination table for deviation when used in the probability variation state (step S205). In the variation pattern table for deviation at the time of probability change, the variation pattern (variation pattern of normal variation at the time of probability variation and variation patterns with multiple types of reach) selected in advance in the probability variation state is set. A plurality of judgment values are assigned to the fluctuation pattern.

  Then, the game control microcomputer 560 reads the variation pattern determination random number (the random number used for determining the variation pattern of the special symbol extracted based on the occurrence of the start winning) from the random number storage buffer, and reads the variation pattern read out. Based on the value of the random number for determination, the variation pattern of the special symbol is determined using the variation pattern determination table determined in steps S202, S204, and S205 (step S206).

  Next, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the special symbol variation time specified by the variation pattern in the special symbol process timer, and starts the special symbol process timer (step S207). Further, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the address of the variation command transmission table for transmitting the variation pattern command corresponding to the variation pattern determined in step S206 to the pointer (step S208), and executes the command setting process. (Step S209). As a result, control for transmitting a variation pattern command corresponding to the determined variation pattern to the production control microcomputer 100 is executed. In the effect control microcomputer 100, based on the change pattern command from the game control microcomputer 560, the effect device (variable display device 9, speaker 27, etc.) produces an effect during the decoration symbol change according to the special symbol change pattern. ) To execute. As a result, the variation of the decorative pattern synchronized with the variation of the special symbol is realized.

  Thereafter, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value (specifically “2”) corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S302) (step S210).

  FIG. 65 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol process in the second embodiment. In the first embodiment, a plurality of types of normal symbol variation patterns are provided, and the normal symbol variation pattern is selected in the normal symbol variation pattern setting process. In the second embodiment, the ordinary symbol variation pattern is selected. Only one type of variation pattern is provided for each gaming state (a variation pattern in a normal gaming state (variation time) and a variation pattern in a certain variation state (variation time)). Therefore, since there is no need to select a normal symbol variation pattern, the normal symbol variation pattern setting process (step S101) is omitted in FIG. In step S113, the random number value for determining the normal symbol and the random number value for determining the variation pattern are extracted as the software random number values based on the winning of the game ball to the gate 32. Since the numerical value is used to select the variation pattern of the special symbol, in the second embodiment, the variation pattern determination random number value is extracted based on the occurrence of the start winning (steps S313, S317), and in step S113, it is normal. Only random numbers for determination per symbol are extracted. The other configuration is the same as that in FIG.

  FIG. 66 is a flowchart showing the universal hit determination process in the second embodiment. In the first embodiment, when the gaming state is the normal gaming state, the winning probability of the normal symbol is 1/150, and when the gaming state is the probability changing state, the winning probability of the normal symbol is 1/1 (100%). However, in the second embodiment, the winning probability of the normal symbol is always set to 1/1 (100%) regardless of whether the gaming state is the normal gaming state or the probability variation state. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 67, in the common symbol determination table according to the second embodiment, the value 0 to 149 that is the same as the update range 0 to 149 of the random value for normal symbol determination is used as the hit determination value. Is set. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the probability of being determined to be a hit in the common figure determination is always 100% (1/1). Therefore, as shown in FIG. 66, the game control microcomputer 560 compares the random number value for normal symbol determination with the hit determination value set in the normal symbol determination table, and if they match, it is determined to be a hit. Although it is determined (step S98A), since it is per 100%, it is determined whether or not it is a hit, and the flag for normal figure is set (step S98B). In addition, after determining whether or not it is a win, a normal hit flag may be set.

  As described above, in the second embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 compares the random number value (normal random number value for determination per symbol) extracted when the gate passage occurs with the predetermined determination value. Then, based on the fact that they match, it is determined that the winning (ordinary symbol winning) is made (steps S113, S124, S125), and control for opening the variable winning device (variable winning ball device 15) is executed (step). S104) Regardless of what value the random number value is, control is performed to release the variable prize winning device, assuming that the random value matches the determination value (that is, with a 100% probability of hitting). Therefore, the processing itself corresponding to the case where the extracted random number value does not match the preset judgment value (when it is out of date) becomes unnecessary. It is possible to achieve a reduction of the reduction and processing burden. For example, since the normal symbol is per 100%, it is only necessary to automatically set the flag for the normal symbol, and it is not necessary to set the flag for the normal symbol after confirming whether the symbol is determined to be a hit. As a result, it is possible to reduce the program capacity and the processing load.

Embodiment 3 FIG.
In the above-described second embodiment, the random number value for determination per normal symbol is extracted based on the winning of the game ball to the gate 32 (step S113), and the extracted random number value is compared with the determination value for winning. However, since the winning probability of the normal symbol is 100%, it is not necessary to make a hit determination using the random number for determining the normal symbol. Therefore, in this third embodiment, the flag for hitting the normal symbol is automatically set based on the winning of the game ball to the gate 32, and the hit determination is not performed using the random number value for determining the normal symbol. It is a thing.

  FIG. 68 is an explanatory diagram showing random numbers in the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 68, in the third embodiment, only a variation pattern determining random number for determining a variation pattern (here, a variation pattern of a special symbol) is provided as a software random number. In the third embodiment, since the hit determination is not performed by using the normal symbol per-determining random number value, the normal per-symbol determination random number (random 3) and the random 3 initial value determining random number (random 4) are used. It is because it is not necessary to provide. In addition, as described in the second embodiment, when determining whether or not to make a big hit using a big hit determination random number and whether to make a big hit (whether it is a normal big hit or a probable big hit), the big hit type This is because it is not necessary to provide a random number for determination.

  FIG. 69 is a flowchart showing the normal symbol process in the third embodiment. In Embodiment 2 described above, the random number value for determination per ordinary symbol is extracted as a software random number value based on the passage of the game ball at the gate (step S113). Since the determination random number itself is not provided, a process for extracting the software random number value is not provided. On the other hand, the designated value per common symbol is stored in the storage area (ordinary symbol determination buffer) corresponding to the value of the number of stored gate passages based on the passage of the game ball at the gate (step S113A). Here, the specified value per hit is data indicating that the normal symbol is automatically hit based on the passing of the game ball through the gate. Based on the fact that the designated value per ordinary symbol is stored, the ordinary symbol ordinary flag is set in the normal symbol normal process as described later (see step S124A). Other configurations are the same as those in FIG. 65, and thus description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 70 is a flowchart showing normal symbol normal processing in the third embodiment. In the normal symbol normal processing in the third embodiment, when the gate passing memory number is not 0 (N in step S121), the game control microcomputer 560 is stored in the storage area corresponding to the gate passing memory number = 1. The designated value per normal symbol is read (step S122A), the value of the gate passing memory number counter is decremented by 1, and the contents of each storage area are shifted (step S123A). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 sets a flag for the usual figure based on the read designated value for the usual figure (step S124A). As described above, since the normal symbol hit determination is not performed in the third embodiment, the processing of steps S122A to S124A is executed instead of the processing of steps S122 to S125 shown in FIG. . In the third embodiment, the normal symbol variation pattern setting process is omitted as in the second embodiment. Therefore, the normal symbol variation time is set in the ordinary symbol process timer and the ordinary symbol process timer is started. (Step S127), a process for starting normal symbol fluctuation is performed (step S128). Further, the value of the normal symbol process flag is updated to a value indicating the normal symbol variation process (step S102), and the normal symbol variation process is shifted to (step S126A).

  As described above, in the third embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 gates the designated value per common figure without extracting the random number value (normal random number value per symbol) when the gate passes. It is stored in the storage area according to the number of passing memories, and the flag for each normal figure is set based on the specified value for each universal figure being stored. Since the control for releasing the winning ball device 15) is executed, the random number itself is not necessary. As a result, the processing required when the hit determination is performed using the random number (for example, random number update processing, The determination process per figure etc.) and the data (for example, a determination table, a counter, etc.) for executing these processes become unnecessary, and the program capacity can be reduced and the processing load can be reduced. In Embodiment 3 described above, when a gate passage occurs, the designated value per common map is stored in a storage area corresponding to the number of stored gate passages, and based on the fact that the designated value per common diagram is stored. The per-figure flag was set, but when a gate passage occurred, the designated value per universal figure was stored in the storage area corresponding to the number of gate passing memories, and the designated value per universal figure was stored in the storage area. Control for opening the variable winning device (variable winning ball device 15) may be executed on the basis of the fact that the player is present. In this case, it is not necessary to set the flag for the common map. However, the content of the storage area is not shifted in step S123A, but the content of the storage area is shifted when the process moves to the normal electric accessory operation process. Alternatively, a change area for the current change is provided separately from the save area, the top data of the save area is moved to the change area at the start of the change, and the data in the other save areas are shifted one by one. To do.

  In the third embodiment described above, the hitting flag is automatically set based on the winning of the game ball to the gate 32, and the hit determination is not performed using the random value for determining the normal symbol. However, the big hit flag may be automatically set based on the winning of the game ball to the start winning holes 13 and 14, and the big hit determination may not be performed using the random number for the big hit determination. Specifically, in the special symbol process, when the first start port switch 13a is turned on (Y in step S311) and it is determined that the number of reserved storage is not 4 (N in step S312), the big hit determination is made in step S313. Random numbers (random R) are not extracted, and the jackpot designated value is stored in the storage area corresponding to the number of reserved storage. In addition, when the second start port switch 14a is turned on (Y in step S315), and it is determined that the number of reserved memories is not 4 (N in step S316), a random number for random determination (random R) is extracted in step S317. Instead, the big hit designated value is stored in the storage area corresponding to the number of stored storage. Then, in the special symbol normal processing in the special symbol process, if the number of reserved memories is not 0 (N in step S52), the jackpot designated value stored in the storage area corresponding to the number of reserved memories = 1 is read, Decrease the value of the pending storage counter by 1 and shift the contents of each storage area. Then, the big hit flag is set based on the read big hit designated value. Furthermore, in the special symbol normal process, the process related to the big hit determination (the processes in steps S55 to S57 shown in FIG. 13 and FIG. 62) is omitted. According to such a configuration, the jackpot determination random number itself becomes unnecessary, and as a result, the processing (for example, random number update processing, jackpot determination processing, etc.) necessary for performing the jackpot determination using random numbers and those processing are performed. Data for execution (for example, a big hit determination table, a counter, etc.) is also unnecessary, and it is possible to reduce the program capacity and the processing load.

  Further, only when the gaming state is in the probable change state, the processing for automatically setting the flag for the normal game may be executed based on the winning of the game ball to the gate 32. That is, a random number for normal symbol determination is extracted based on the passage of the gate and stored in the storage area (step S113). When the number of stored gate passages is not 0 in the normal symbol normal processing (N in step S121), the probability change It is determined whether or not the vehicle is in the state, and only in the probability variation state, the processing for shifting to the normal electric accessory operation processing by setting the flag for normal drawing is performed without performing the hit determination (step S159 is Y in step S153). In the normal gaming state, a hit determination is performed based on a random number for determining a normal symbol (steps S122 to S125), and a hit flag is set when the hit is determined in the hit determination. (See step S97), and a process of shifting to the normal electric accessory operation process is executed based on the fact that the normal hit flag is set (step S). 53 of Y, executes the processing of step S159) may be. Furthermore, only when the game state is in the probable change state, the process of automatically setting the big hit flag based on the winning of the game ball in the start winning opening 13, 14 may be executed. That is, a big hit determination random number is extracted based on the start winning prize and stored in the storage area (steps S313 and S317). In the special symbol normal process, when the number of reserved memories is not 0 (N in step S52), the probability change state Only when the probability change state, the process of setting the big hit flag and shifting to the big hit game without executing the big hit judgment is executed (the process of step S237 is executed at Y of step S233), In the normal gaming state, the big hit determination is performed based on the big hit determination random number (steps S53 to S56), the big hit flag is set when it is determined that the big hit is determined, and the big hit flag is set. The process of shifting to the big hit game (pre-opening process for the big winning opening) is executed (Y in step S233, the process of step S237) It may be in the run) as.

  In the third embodiment, the flag for the normal map is set on the basis of the fact that the specified value for the normal map is stored in the storage area corresponding to the number of stored gate passes (step S124A). Based on the fact that the gate pass memory number is not 0 without storing the designated value per map (without executing steps S113A and S122A) in the storage area corresponding to the gate pass memory number (N in step S121). ), A flag for a normal map may be automatically set.

Embodiment 4 FIG.
In Embodiment 3 described above, when a gate passage occurs, a designated value per common map is stored in a storage area corresponding to the number of stored gate passages, and a flag per common figure is set based on the stored designated value per common map. Although the control for opening the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is executed based on the setting of the flag for the normal game, the embodiment 4 does not set the flag for the normal game. When the variation of the normal symbol is finished and the normal symbol is stopped, the control for automatically opening the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is executed.

  In the fourth embodiment, since the flag for the normal symbol is not set, in the normal symbol process, the processing for storing the designated value for the normal symbol is not performed in the storage area corresponding to the number of stored gates. That is, the process of step S113A in FIG. 69 is omitted. Further, in the normal symbol normal process, the process of reading the designated value per universal symbol stored in the storage area and the process of setting the universal symbol flag are not performed. That is, the processing in steps S122A and S124A in FIG. 70 is omitted.

  FIG. 71 is a flowchart showing a normal symbol stop process in the fourth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 71, in the fourth embodiment, when the normal symbol variation time has elapsed, that is, when the normal symbol process timer has timed out (Y in step S151), the normal symbol hit flag is set. Without confirming whether or not, the process of setting the normal electric accessory operating time in the normal symbol process timer (step S154), or the process of setting the release pattern of the normal electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) (step S155) ˜S158) is executed to shift to the ordinary electric accessory operation processing (step S159). That is, steps S153 and S160 in FIG. 30 are omitted.

  FIG. 72 is an explanatory diagram showing a difference in processing between the third embodiment and the fourth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 72, in the third embodiment, based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the gate 32 (Y in step S111), if the gate passing memory number is not 4 (N in step S112), the gate The specified value per common map is stored in the storage area corresponding to the passing memory number (step S113A), and the value of the gate passing memory number counter is incremented by 1 (step S114). Then, in the normal symbol normal process, when the number of stored gate passages is not 0, the flag for the normal symbol is set based on the specified value for the normal symbol stored in the storage area (step S124A). Then, in the normal symbol stop process (FIG. 30), it is confirmed whether or not the universal symbol hit flag is set (step S152), and if it is set, the routine shifts to the normal electric accessory operation process (step S159). The opening control of the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball device 15) is executed. On the other hand, in the fourth embodiment, based on the fact that the game ball has passed through the gate 32 (Y in step S111), if the gate passing memory number is not 4 (N in step S112), the gate passing memory number Only the process of incrementing the counter value by 1 (step S114) is executed. Then, in the normal symbol stop process (FIG. 71), without confirming whether or not the common symbol flag is set, the process shifts to the normal electric accessory actuating process (step S159) and the normal electric accessory (variable winning a prize). The opening control of the ball device 15) is executed.

  As described above, the fourth embodiment is configured to execute the control for opening the variable winning device (variable winning ball device 15) based on the derivation and display of the normal symbol stop symbol. As in the case of the third embodiment, the random number itself is not necessary. As a result, the processing necessary for determining the big hit using a random number (for example, random number update processing, universal hit determination processing, etc.) Data for executing processing (for example, a determination table, a counter, and the like) is also unnecessary, and it is possible to reduce the program capacity and the processing load. In addition, since the usual hit flag is not set, it is not necessary to check whether or not the usual hit flag is set, thereby further reducing the program capacity and the processing load.

  In the above-described fourth embodiment, the opening / closing operation of the variable winning ball device 15 (ordinary electric accessory actuating process) is automatically executed based on the winning of the game ball to the gate 32. The special variable winning device 20 may be opened and closed by automatically shifting to the big hit game based on the winning of the game ball at the winning openings 13 and 14. Specifically, in the special symbol process, the process of storing the jackpot designated value in the storage area corresponding to the reserved storage number is not performed. Further, in the special symbol normal process, the process of reading the jackpot designated value stored in the storage area and the process of setting the jackpot flag are not performed. Further, the process for checking the big hit flag (steps S57, S84, S233) is not performed, and the process is always shifted to the pre-opening process for the big winning opening. According to such a configuration, the jackpot determination random number itself becomes unnecessary, and as a result, the processing (for example, random number update processing, jackpot determination processing, etc.) necessary for performing the jackpot determination using random numbers and those processing are performed. Data for execution (for example, a big hit determination table, a counter, etc.) is also unnecessary, and it is possible to reduce the program capacity and the processing load. Further, since the big hit flag is not set, it is not necessary to check whether the big hit flag is set, and the program capacity and the processing load can be further reduced.

  Also, only when the gaming state is in the probable state, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 may be automatically opened / closed (ordinary electric accessory actuating process) based on the passing of the game ball to the gate 32. . In other words, only in the state of probability change, the process of shifting to the normal electric accessory operation processing is executed based on the stoppage of the normal symbol fluctuation without checking the hit judgment or the normal symbol hit flag (the fluctuation of the normal symbol is stopped). (Yes in step S151), it is determined whether or not the probability change state, and in the case of the probability change state, the process of step S159 is executed. Executes the process to shift to the normal electric accessory operation process on the condition that it has been confirmed (for example, extract a random number for normal symbol per symbol based on the passage of the gate, and perform a per-normal symbol determination based on the extracted random value When it is determined that the game is successful, the normal symbol hit flag is set. When the variation of the normal symbol is stopped (Y in step S151), it is determined whether or not it is in the probability variation state. Hiroshizu per flag to confirm whether it is set, Hiroshizu per flag executes step S159 if set) may be. Further, only when the game state is in the probable change state, the special variable winning device 20 is opened / closed automatically by shifting to the big hit game based on the passing of the game ball to the start winning opening 13,14. Good. That is, only in the probability changing state, the process of shifting to the big hit game based on the special symbol fluctuation stop without executing the big hit judgment or the big hit flag check is executed (when the special symbol fluctuation is stopped (step S232). Y), it is determined whether or not the probability change state, and when it is in the probability change state, the process of step S237 is executed), and in the normal game state, it is confirmed that the big hit flag is set. (For example, when a big hit determination random number is extracted based on the occurrence of the start winning, and the big hit determination is performed based on the extracted random number value, and it is determined that the big hit is determined) Is set to the big hit flag, and when the change of the special symbol is stopped (Y in step S232), it is determined whether or not it is in the probable change state. Ri flag confirms whether the set may be the big hit flag executes step S237 if set) as.

  Next, a specific effect of the present invention will be described. Conventionally, there is a gaming machine that performs control so that when a game ball passes through a gate, the normal electric accessory (variable winning ball device, electric tulip) is always opened without changing the normal symbol. However, in such a control, the normal symbol process is advanced based on the detection of the passage of the gate to release the ordinary electric accessory, and after the opening control of the ordinary electric accessory is completed, the passage of the gate must be detected again. For example, the opening control of the ordinary electric accessory is not executed. That is, the detection of the passage of the gate is executed only in the normal symbol normal process (only in the state where the opening control is not being performed). Therefore, when the gate is passed during the opening control of the ordinary electric accessory, the reserved storage (memory of the number of passing gates) cannot be performed. In contrast, in the present invention, since a flag (specified value) or a random number value is stored at the time of detection of the passage of the gate, even when the passage of the gate is detected during the opening control of the ordinary electric accessory. Since the flag or the random number value is stored as the hold storage when the release control of the ordinary electric accessory is finished, the release control of the ordinary electric accessory can be executed based on the flag or the random value. Further, even when the flag or random number value is not stored as the reserved memory, it is possible to execute the release control of the ordinary electric accessory based on the reserved memory by storing the reserved memory number (gate passing memory number) with the counter. .

  Further, in Patent Document 1 described in the background art, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the jackpot is configured with a winning probability of 100%, but the data of the jackpot determination table for performing the jackpot determination is necessary. Further, a program for realizing a process for determining a big hit using the big hit determination table, a process for setting contents based on the determination result of the big hit determination, and the like are also required. As a result, the required ROM capacity may be increased. On the other hand, in the present invention (particularly, Embodiments 3 and 4), since the big hit determination itself is eliminated, the data of the big hit determination table becomes unnecessary, and the determination result of the big hit determination and the determination result of the big hit determination There is no need for a program for realizing a process for setting the original contents. As a result, the required ROM capacity can be reduced and the processing load on the microcomputer can be reduced.

  Hereinafter, modifications of the above-described first to fourth embodiments will be described.

  In the above-described first to fourth embodiments, even when it is detected that an abnormal winning at the second start winning opening 14 has occurred, the variation of the special symbol on the special symbol display 8 or the decoration symbol on the variable display device 9 The variation was configured to be performed continuously. Accordingly, when a game ball is won in the second start winning opening 14 illegally (for example, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened illegally even though the normal symbol is not a winning pattern, and the second starting winning opening 14 is opened. Even in the case where a game ball is won), it is possible that a big win will be generated by the start winning, and a ball will be illegally obtained. Therefore, it is preferable that the change of the special symbol and the variation of the decorative symbol are stopped at a predetermined timing when it is detected that the abnormal winning at the second start winning opening 14 has occurred.

  Specifically, in the special symbol process, the game control microcomputer 560 first checks whether or not an abnormal winning detection flag indicating that an abnormal winning at the second start winning opening 14 is detected is set. Here, the abnormal winning detection flag is set when an abnormal winning to the second start winning opening 14 is detected, that is, when N in step S264 of FIG.

  When the abnormal winning detection flag is set, the game control microcomputer 560 determines whether or not the special symbol is changed in the special symbol display 8, specifically, the value of the special symbol process flag is the special symbol. It is determined whether or not the value is “2” indicating the changing process (step S302). When the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating the special symbol changing process (“2”), the processing after step S311 is executed. That is, the special symbol display 8 causes the special symbol to be continuously changed. On the other hand, when the value of the special symbol process flag is not a value indicating the special symbol changing process (“2”), the special symbol process processing is terminated. That is, the special symbol display control 8 stops the variation control of the special symbol. With such a configuration, when an abnormal winning at the second start winning opening is detected, if the special symbol is not changing, the special symbol is immediately prohibited from changing, and if the special symbol is changing, The variation of the special symbol is continued, and the variation of the next special symbol is prohibited.

  In the effect control process, the effect control microcomputer 100 checks whether or not the abnormal winning notification designation command reception flag is set. When the abnormal winning notification designation command reception flag is set, the production control microcomputer 100 determines whether or not the decorative design is changed in the variable display device 9, specifically, the value of the production control process flag. It is determined whether or not the value is “2” indicating the decorative symbol variation processing (step S802). When the value of the effect control process flag is a value (“2”) indicating the decorative symbol variation process, the decorative symbol variation processing (step S802) is executed. That is, the decorative display pattern is continuously changed in the variable display device 9. On the other hand, when the value of the effect control process flag is not a value indicating the decorative symbol changing process (“2”), the effect control process process is ended. In other words, the decorative display variation control is stopped in the variable display device 9. With this configuration, when the abnormal winning notification designation command is received, if the decorative design is not changing, the decorative design is immediately prohibited from changing. If the decorative design is changing, the decorative design is changed. , And the next decorative pattern change is prohibited.

  According to the above configuration, the control for prohibiting the variation of the special symbol in the special symbol display 8 and the variation of the decorative symbol in the variable display device 9 is executed based on the detection of the abnormal winning at the second start winning opening 14. Therefore, in the case where a winning to the second start winning opening 14 is generated by an illegal act (for example, the normal winning symbol ball device 15 is opened by releasing the variable winning ball device 15 even though the normal symbol is not a winning symbol) Even in the case where the start winning opening 14 is won), it is possible to reliably prevent the occurrence of a big hit based on the winning.

  In the second embodiment, whether the value of the special symbol process flag is a value indicating the special symbol changing process, and the value of the effect control process flag is a value indicating the decorative symbol changing process. However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. For example, when an abnormal winning detection flag is set, and when an abnormal winning notification is designated. When the command reception flag is set, control for prohibiting the variation of the symbol may be performed immediately. Further, the number of reserved memories at the time when an abnormal winning to the second start winning opening 14 is detected is confirmed, and the variation of the symbols is continued until the variation of the symbols corresponding to the number of reserved memories is completed. When the variation of the symbol is finished, control for prohibiting the variation of the symbol may be performed. Specifically, when the abnormal winning detection flag is set, the number of reserved memory is confirmed, the counter counts whether or not a change corresponding to the confirmed reserved memory number has been executed, and the change corresponding to the reserved memory number is completed. Control that prohibits fluctuations is sometimes executed. According to such a configuration, it is possible to continue the fluctuation based on the start winning to the normal second start winning opening 14 and prohibit the fluctuation based on the abnormal winning. In the above configuration, in the case of prohibiting the variation of the symbol based on the abnormal winning correctly, the variation of the symbol is prohibited at the time when the variation of the reserved memory number -1 minute when the abnormal winning is detected is finished. You may do it.

  In the above-described first to fourth embodiments, the winning ball number adding process shown in FIG. 41 includes a winning game ball to the second start winning opening 14 (Y in step S363A), and the value of the normal symbol process flag Is a value indicating the normal electric accessory actuating process (“4” in the first embodiment, and “3” because the normal symbol variation pattern setting process is omitted in the second to fourth embodiments). By configuring so that the number of prize balls is not added to the prize ball number storage buffer, the prize balls are not paid out based on abnormal winnings. However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. When an abnormal winning to the second start winning opening 14 is detected in the switch process, the winning itself may be invalidated.

  Specifically, in the switch process, after executing the process of step S338, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the ordinary electric accessory (variable winning ball apparatus 15) is being opened. Here, whether or not the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is open can be determined by, for example, checking the normal electric accessory solenoid output bit of the output port buffer (solenoid buffer).

  When the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is being opened, the processing is ended as it is. When the variable winning ball device 15 is not open but closed, the game control microcomputer 560 clears the second start port switch input bit (the bit corresponding to the second start port switch 14a) of the switch-on buffer. Set to (0). As a result, when an abnormal winning is made to the second starting winning opening 14, the starting winning itself can be invalidated. In this case, it is not necessary to execute a process for preventing the prize ball number from being added to the total prize ball number storage buffer when an abnormal winning to the second starting prize opening 14 occurs in the prize ball number addition process. .

  Further, in the above modification, when an abnormal winning to the second starting winning opening 14 occurs, the starting winning itself is invalidated in the switch processing, but an abnormal winning to the second starting winning opening 14 is made. If it occurs, the start winning itself may be invalidated in the special symbol process.

  Specifically, in the special symbol process, the game control microcomputer 560 executes a first start port passage process (the processes of steps S311 to S314). Then, the game control microcomputer 560 checks whether or not the invalid flag is set before executing the second start port notification process (the processes of steps S315 to S318). Here, the invalid flag is set when an abnormal winning to the second start winning opening 14 is detected. Specifically, in the case of the first embodiment, the second start port switch 14a is turned on when the value of the normal symbol process flag is “4”.

  When the invalid flag is set, the game control microcomputer 560 does not execute the second start port notification process (the processes of steps S315 to S318), and does not execute the second start when the invalid flag is not set. Mouth notification processing (processing in steps S315 to S318) is executed. According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent random number extraction based on the abnormal second start winning, etc., variation based on the abnormal winning is prohibited, and the occurrence of a big hit based on the abnormal winning is surely prevented. can do.

  In this case, since it is impossible to prohibit the payout of the winning ball based on the abnormal winning, the payout of the winning ball based on the abnormal winning as described in the first embodiment (the winning ball number adding process in FIG. 41) is prohibited. It is preferable to execute the control simultaneously.

  In the first to fourth embodiments, the effect 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 effect device is mounted. A circuit to be mounted may be mounted on one substrate. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) on which a circuit for controlling the variable 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 variable 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 each of the above embodiments, for example, the following effects are executed as effects during the big hit of the special symbol. First, the production control microcomputer 100 recognizes the start winning memory number (holding memory number) of the special symbol based on the start winning memory designation command from the game control microcomputer 560. At this time, it is assumed that the start winning memory number is four. Next, the production control microcomputer 100 uses the symbol information designation command to determine whether the variation of the special symbol based on the first start winning memory is a normal big hit (non-probable big hit) when the number of special symbols held is four. Recognize. Usually, when the game is a big hit, the microcomputer 100 for effect control uses a strong person (your character) as an effect during the big hit (effect during round, interval, ending) based on the fanfare command. (The person who is weak) may be displayed, and the effect of confronting the characters is executed (the effect (display mode) may or may not differ for each round).

  Next, the production control microcomputer 100 receives the symbol information designation command when the variation of the special symbol based on the next start winning memory is started, and recognizes the type of jackpot based on the content of the symbol information designation command. To do. Then, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes the effect that is a big hit based on the fanfare command. At this time, the effect during the big hit when the reserved memory is digested is made different depending on the type of the big hit. For example, if it is a normal big hit, the opponent's character attacks (a disadvantageous effect for the player), and if it is a probable big hit, its own character attacks (an advantageous effect for the player). In this case, one of the characters attacks with a single big hit. Next, when the change of the special symbol based on the last start winning memory among the four start winning memories is started, the symbol information specifying command is received, and the type of jackpot is recognized based on the content of the symbol information specifying command. . Then, the effect control microcomputer 100 executes the effect that is a big hit based on the fanfare command. At this time, if the special symbol change is the big hit when the special symbol hold memory is the last, if it is a probable big hit, the effect that the character wins as the effect of the big hit (revives after losing and wins) A relief effect may be executed), and if the player is a big hit, an effect in which the opponent character wins is executed.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 needs to select whether or not to execute the relief effect and to select the content of the effect when executing the relief effect in consideration of matching with the effect that is a big hit. For example, when the player's character first attacks, if the player's character has decided in advance to win, it is selected not to execute the relief effect. Also, even if the character loses, if the manner of the relief effect varies depending on how to lose, the relief effect corresponding to the loss method is selected.

  In each of the above embodiments, the gaming state is a normal gaming state and a probable variation state. However, as other gaming states, a short time state (a time shortening state in which the variation time of a special symbol or a normal symbol is shortened) is used. It may be provided. For example, it is possible to shift to the time-short state when the probability-changing state ends when the probability-changing state ends normally, or to always shift to the time-shortening state after the big hit. When shifting to the short-time state, the winning probability of the special symbol cannot be improved, but the winning probability of the normal symbol can be improved. When the winning probability of the normal symbol is improved in accordance with the shift of the short time state, the winning probability of the normal symbol may be set to 100%. In that case, the winning probability of the normal symbol may be improved in accordance with the transition of the short time state. In addition to the normal symbol winning probability, the normal symbol winning probability is improved by any one of the following: shortening the fluctuation time of the normal symbol, shortening the fluctuation time of the special symbol, and extending the opening time of the variable winning ball device 15. It is also possible to control to a state in accordance with the above, or to control to a state where any one of them is combined, or to control to a state where all of these are combined.

  Further, the probability variation state may be configured such that the number of times is changed (after the transition to the probability variation state (after the end of the probability variation big hit), for example, control is performed to the probability variation state for the number of times of 100 variations). Moreover, the time-short state may be configured to cut the number of times (the time-short state is controlled by, for example, 100 fluctuations after the shift to the time-short state).

  In the above-described embodiment, the probability of determining the probability variation jackpot (the probability of making a probability variation jackpot out of the jackpots) is a predetermined probability (for example, 90%). However, the probability variation jackpot may be a probability of 100%. In this case, when the game control microcomputer 560 ends the probability variation big hit (after the probability variation flag is set), it is a lottery lottery (a lottery process for determining whether or not the probability variation big hit is terminated, also referred to as a puncture lottery). May be executed to end the probability variation state. In this case, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits an effect control command indicating that the probability change state has fallen to the effect control microcomputer 100 so that the effect control microcomputer 100 recognizes the end of the probability change state. May be. In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits to the effect control microcomputer 100 an effect control command (for example, a normal pattern variation pattern command) that can specify whether or not the current game state is a probability change state. The control microcomputer 100 may recognize whether or not the probability variation state has ended.

  Further, when a game ball wins the first start winning opening 13 where it is difficult to win a prize, an effect different from the effect executed when the game ball wins the second start winning opening 14 may be executed. Good. For example, you may make it perform the effect which makes it seem as if it changed to the probability change state suddenly. Moreover, you may make it perform the production which makes it seem as if it was suddenly changed to the time-short state. Also, a special effect such as a premium effect may be executed. According to such a structure, the variation of production increases and the interest of a game improves.

  In the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 is configured to transmit the variation pattern command and the symbol information designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 as the effect control command related to the normal symbol. However, the game control microcomputer 560 may transmit only the variation pattern command and may not transmit the symbol information designation command. In this case, the effect control microcomputer 100 recognizes the deviation / hit according to the contents of the variation pattern command. According to such a configuration, the number of commands can be reduced.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits a special symbol variation pattern command, a fanfare command, an ending command, etc. as the effect control commands related to the jackpot effect. The inside production was performed. However, a big hit effect may be executed based on any of the above commands.

  In the above-described embodiment, a decoration symbol stop designation command (determining command) for designating stoppage of decoration symbol variation is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100 in response to stoppage of variation of ordinary symbols. Instead of transmitting this command, the variation of the decorative pattern may be stopped when the identifiable variation time has elapsed from the variation pattern.

  In the above embodiment, when the jackpot determination table is configured to perform the jackpot determination table, the jackpot determination table is switched depending on whether the gaming state is the normal gaming state or the probability variation state. However, it is not limited to such a configuration, but a big hit determination random number is extracted, but when it is in a probable variation state, it is always determined as a big hit without performing a big hit determination using the big hit determination table, and in the normal gaming state a big hit determination You may be comprised so that jackpot determination may be performed using a table. Similarly, in the case where it is configured to perform a hit per base using the base per hit determination table, the base per hit determination table is switched depending on whether the gaming state is a normal gaming state or a probable change state. However, it is not limited to such a configuration, but a random number for determination per normal symbol is extracted. In the state, it may be configured to perform the universal hit determination using the universal hit determination table.

  In addition, the pachinko gaming machine of the above embodiment can be given a predetermined game value to a player mainly when the stop symbol of the special symbol variably displayed on the variable display unit based on the start winning becomes the predetermined symbol. A pachinko machine that can be given a predetermined gaming value to a player when there is a prize in a predetermined area of an electric game that is released based on a start prize, or a start prize The present invention can be applied even to a pachinko gaming machine in which a predetermined right is generated or continued when a winning is given to a predetermined electric combination that is released when a stop symbol of a variably displayed symbol becomes a predetermined symbol combination . Furthermore, the present invention can be applied to a slot machine that inserts game medals and sets a bet number and plays a game, or a game machine that inserts game balls instead of game medals and sets a bet number and plays a game.

  Moreover, in each embodiment shown above, the characteristic structure of the gaming machine as shown in the following (1) to (3) is also shown.

(1) The game state includes a normal state (for example, a normal game state) and a special game state (for example, a probable change state) that is easily controlled to a state advantageous to the player as compared to the normal state. Opening prohibition means for prohibiting the opening / closing control means from opening the variable winning device to the open state (for example, in the game control microcomputer 560, the special symbol is N in step S81, and in the normal gaming state, the big hit determination is made. The automatic big hit flag (or big hit designated value) is set by prohibiting it, and the process of step S87 is not executed on the basis of the fact that it is determined to be out of step S83. For normal symbols, the answer is N in step S91. A portion that becomes N in step S153 by prohibiting the automatic setting of the flag for normal map (or a designated value for the normal map) and not executing the process of step S97 based on the determination that the flag is not in step S93. ) May be provided. According to such a configuration, the game state includes a normal state and a special game state that can be easily controlled to be more advantageous to the player than in the normal state. Since the release prohibiting means for prohibiting the control to the open state is provided, the interest of the game in the special game state can be improved.

(2) Variable display of special identification information (for example, special symbol) is started based on the detection of a game ball in the first start area (for example, second start winning opening 14), and the display result is derived and displayed. Based on the first variable display device (for example, the special symbol display 8) and the detection of the game ball in the second starting area (for example, the gate 32), variable display of the normal identification information (for example, the normal symbol) And a second variable display device (for example, the normal symbol display 10) that derives and displays the display result, and the first variable display device derives and displays the first specific display result (for example, the special symbol jackpot symbol). When this is done, a transition is made to a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state) as an advantageous state for the player, and a second specific display result (for example, a normal symbol winning symbol) is derived and displayed on the second variable display device. Sometimes, as an advantageous state for the player, a normal variable winning device (for example, a variable winning ball device 15) as a variable winning device is changed from a closed state in which a game ball is not detected in the first starting area to an easily opened state. Open / close determining means for determining the open / closed state of the normal variable winning device (for example, executing step S261 in the game control microcomputer 560) And when the normally variable winning device is determined to be in the closed state by the open / close determination means (for example, N in step S261), based on the detection of the game ball in the first starting area ( For example, N in step S264), an abnormality notification means (for example, a game control microphone) that performs notification of winning abnormality Portions for performing the steps S265, S266 in the computer 560, and step S707 in the performance control microcomputer 100 and portions for performing the (Figure 60)) may comprise. According to such a configuration, when the open / close determining means for determining the open / closed state of the normally variable winning device and the open / close determining means determines that the normally variable winning device is in the closed state, Since there is an abnormality notification means for performing notification of a prize abnormality based on the detection of a game ball, it is notified that a prize abnormality has occurred due to a fraudulent act on a normal variable prize winning device (here, an electric tulip). As a result, it is possible to reliably prevent fraudulent acts on the normally variable winning device.

(3) Variable display of special identification information (for example, special symbol) is started based on the detection of a game ball in the first starting area (for example, first starting winning port 13 and second starting winning port 14) When a first variable display device (for example, special symbol display device 8) for deriving and displaying the display result is provided, and a first specific display result (for example, a special symbol jackpot symbol) is derived and displayed on the first variable display device. Then, the game ball moves to a special game state (for example, a big hit game state) as a state advantageous to the player, and the special ball award device (for example, the special variable prize device 20) as a variable prize device in the specific game state. A gaming machine that changes from a closed state in which no winning is made to an open state in which it is easy to win (for example, executes steps S304 to S307), and an opening / closing judgment for determining the opening / closing state of the special variable winning device. When the means (for example, the part for executing step S255 in the game control microcomputer 560) and the open / close determining means determine that the special variable winning device is in a closed state (for example, N in step S255), the special variable Based on the detection of the winning of the game ball to the winning device (for example, N in step S258), abnormality notification means for performing notification of a winning abnormality (for example, steps S259 and S260 in the game control microcomputer 560 are executed). And a portion for executing step S707 (FIG. 60) in the production control microcomputer 100. According to such a configuration, when the open / close determining means for determining the open / closed state of the special variable winning device and the open / close determining means determines that the special variable winning device is in the closed state, Since there is an abnormality notification means for notifying the winning abnormality based on the detection of the winning of the game ball, an abnormal winning has occurred due to an illegal act on the special variable winning device (here, the big winning mouth) As a result, it is possible to reliably prevent an illegal act on the special variable winning device.

  The present invention is applied to a gaming machine such as a pachinko gaming machine in which a start winning is likely to occur when the variable winning device (ordinary electric accessory, variable winning ball device 15) is open.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Special symbol display 9 Variable display device 10 Normal symbol display 13 1st start winning opening 14 2nd starting winning opening 15 Variable winning ball apparatus (ordinary electric accessory)
20 Special variable winning ball device (big prize opening)
31 Main board 80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 560 Game control microcomputer

Claims (1)

Variable display of multiple types of special identification information that can be used to play a predetermined game using a game ball and that can be identified based on the detection of a game ball in a special start area provided in the game area A gaming machine that controls a specific gaming state advantageous to the player when the specific display result is derived and displayed on the special variable display device that derives and displays the display result,
A variable winning device that is provided in the special start-up area and can be changed between a closed state in which no game ball is won and an open state in which the game ball is easy to win;
A numerical value updating means for updating the numerical value of the random number;
Numerical value extraction means for extracting the numerical value of the random number when a game ball is detected in a normal start area provided in the game area;
A normal variable display device capable of performing variable display of a plurality of types of normal identification information capable of identifying each;
Variable display control means for starting variable display of normal identification information and deriving and displaying a display result based on detection of a game ball in the normal start area;
Based on the fact that the numerical value of the random number extracted by the numerical value extraction means indicates a predetermined value, after the display result is derived and displayed on the normal variable display device, the variable winning device is Opening and closing control means that can be controlled in an open state,
The opening / closing control means always controls the variable prize-winning device to be in an open state, regardless of the random number value extracted by the numerical value extracting means, assuming that the random number value indicates a predetermined value. A special opening control means for executing the game machine.

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