JP2013236829A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a technology capable of preventing inconsistency before and after presentation when smoothly developing the presentation by using a condition related to the number of stored lottery elements.SOLUTION: Special zone presentation is started over a plurality of times of variations on the condition that the number of working memories has reached a required number. When starting the special zone presentation, presentation scenarios are first decided for each of a plurality of times of variations, and when an initial variation lasts for applied variation seconds (S904: Yes), zone entrance presentation is executed (S910) via presentation winning (S906, S908: Yes). When the initial variation does not last for the applied variation seconds (S904: No), a presentation scenario is erased without executing the zone entrance presentation (S920).

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine that generates an effect based on a determination result in advance with respect to storage of a lottery element acquired with the occurrence of a lottery opportunity.

  Conventionally, lottery elements are memorized by winning at the starting point generated during the game, and when the number of memorized (the number of reserved balls) reaches the upper limit, no more lottery elements are memorized, There is known a prior art for notifying the presence or absence of a privilege or the degree of expectation of each lottery element (holding ball) stored so far when a winning is detected in layers (see, for example, Patent Document 1). According to this prior art, when a winning is detected repeatedly before the symbol variation display is actually started using the memory of the lottery element, the expectation degree of the lottery result can be disclosed prior to the variation display. it is conceivable that.

  In addition, as another prior art, when the number of stored lottery elements (the number of reserved balls) reaches the upper limit, the number of invalid balls of the game balls won at the starting port is counted, and the probability of occurrence of the invalid balls is counted. A gaming machine that sets a reach pattern to appear from among “super reach”, “special reach”, and “premium reach” is known (for example, see Patent Document 2). According to this prior art, the appearance probability of “Premium Reach”, which has a very low probability of occurrence under normal conditions, can be increased as the number of invalid balls increases, and then it can be connected to a bonus when a big hit is allocated. .

JP 2001-334032 A JP 2003-334319 A

  The above-described prior arts (Patent Documents 1 and 2) have some changes in the subsequent effects on the condition that there is still a winning at the starting port even after the number of lottery elements stored (the number of reserved balls) reaches the upper limit. It is going to provide.

  However, in all cases, it is still insufficient to say that “the number of lottery elements has reached the maximum value”, and in order to obtain further development (change in production), further effort (invalid ball) To continue launching game balls with a preparedness). For this reason, the prior art technique has a problem that the burden on the player increases before the intended performance occurs.

  On the other hand, if the production is developed unconditionally (automatically) just because “the number of lottery elements has reached the maximum value”, the flow of the production that has occurred up to that point (for example, the pre-reading notice production) There is a risk that the content will be inconsistent between the production and the development after development, and unexpected deficiencies may occur in the production.

  Therefore, the present invention provides a technique that can prevent inconsistencies between before and after the development of the performance smoothly using the conditions related to the number of stored lottery elements.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention employs the following solutions.
Solution 1: That is, the present invention provides a lottery element necessary for an internal lottery relating to a player's profit (for example, a profit that an operation opportunity of a variable winning device is generated) on condition that a lottery opportunity has occurred during the game. Element acquisition means to acquire, element storage means for storing the lottery elements acquired by the element acquisition means up to the upper limit value in the order of acquisition, and predetermined start conditions (for example, the pattern is not changing and the previous change is performed) If there is a storage of the lottery elements by the element storage means in a state where the condition that the stop display of the symbol has been confirmed is satisfied, the lottery elements are consumed in the order of storage. Also includes a lottery execution means for executing an internal lottery, and a design (for example, a symbol visually recognized) over a preset variation time when the internal lottery is executed by the lottery execution means. The symbol display means for stopping and displaying the design in a manner representing the result of the internal lottery after the variable display is displayed, and the element acquisition means according to the fact that the lottery trigger occurs in a state where the start condition is not satisfied When the acquired lottery element is newly stored in the element storage means, the internal portion is executed by the lottery execution means using the new lottery element before the storage is consumed by the lottery execution means. At the time of the symbol variation display by the destination determination means for determining the result of the lottery in advance and the symbol display means, the variation display effect corresponding to the variation display of the symbol is executed at least within the variation time, and then the symbol stop display When the number of the lottery elements stored by the element storage means reaches the specified number, the symbol effect executing means for executing the stop display effect corresponding to the mode, and thereafter A special period in an aspect that indicates in advance that there is a possibility that winning will be obtained in the internal lottery over a special period until the maximum number of symbol variable display and stop display executed by the pattern display means reaches the specified number. A special period effect execution feasibility determining means for determining whether or not to execute an effect based on a previous determination result by the destination determination means performed for storing the lottery elements for the specified number, and the special period effect When it is determined that the special period effect is to be executed by the execution determination unit, the symbol change display and the stop display each time executed by the symbol display unit within the special period are included in each special period effect. It is determined that the special period effect is to be executed by the individual effect content determining means for individually determining the contents of the effect in the and the special period effect execution availability determining means. On the other hand, when the production contents are individually determined by the individual production content determination means, the lottery element storage for the specified number is initially consumed, and the lottery execution means executes the internal lottery. In response to the first variation display of the symbol executed by the symbol display means, the rush effect of the aspect representing the possibility that the special period effect is started is executed at the time of the variation display effect performed by the symbol effect execution means. Whether or not to determine whether or not to execute the rush effect is determined by the rush effect execution determination unit and the rush effect execution determination unit. When the execution of the rush effect is controlled at the time of the variable display effect performed by the symbol effect executing means corresponding to the first variable display of the symbol by the display means In addition, in the variation display effect and the stop display effect performed by the symbol effect execution means in response to the variable display and stop display of the symbol every time performed next time or later by the symbol display means within the special period, Effect control means for controlling execution of the special period effect based on the effect contents determined by the individual effect content determination means.

According to the gaming machine of the present invention, the game basically proceeds in the following flow. However, the numbers in parentheses are for convenience and are not particularly limited.
(1) During a game, for example, when a lottery opportunity is generated by winning a start winning opening, a lottery element such as a random number is acquired. The lottery opportunity is not limited to one event, and may be generated by a plurality of events (for example, winning in a plurality of different start winning ports).
(2) The lottery elements such as the acquired random number are stored in order and can be read out as necessary.
(3) If there is a lottery element stored in a state where the start condition is satisfied, the internal lottery is performed by sequentially consuming the storage. Note that when a lottery element is newly acquired in a state where the start condition is not satisfied, the storage of the lottery element is accumulated as in (2) above.
(4) When an internal lottery is performed, a symbol change display and a stop display are performed each time. Although the result of the internal lottery is not clear during the variable display, when the symbol is stopped and displayed, the result of the internal lottery (winning or non-winning) becomes clear in the stop display mode.
(5) As described above, even if the lottery element is stored, the internal lottery is not performed until the start condition is satisfied. In the present invention, the result is determined in advance before the internal lottery is actually performed (read-ahead). Can be kept. The prior determination result can be reflected in the notice effect before the internal lottery (symbol change display and stop display) is performed for the storage of the lottery element.
(6) Nevertheless, the main flow for the player is “occurrence of lottery opportunity” → “execution of internal lottery” → “display and stop display of symbol” → “display of lottery result”. During the fluctuation display, “whether or not the winning result is displayed with the current fluctuation” is the center of interest. Therefore, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the symbol display effect and the result display effect are performed in correspondence with the symbol change display and the stop display every time until the result of the internal lottery that is the center of interest of the player is displayed. Expressing the process in a stunning manner.

  The above-mentioned production method is effective in expressing “the result of the internal lottery for each time” in a production manner. In addition, in the gaming machine of the present invention, “additional number of lottery elements has reached the prescribed number” is one condition, and further added value is provided in production.

(7) That is, when the number of stored lottery elements reaches the specified number, whether to execute “special period effect” based on the previous determination result made in (5) above, apart from the internal lottery every time ( Whether it is possible) or not. “Special period effect” is a process in which the memory of lottery elements that have reached the specified number is consumed in sequence, and continues for a special period until the maximum number of symbol changes and stops are displayed. Production. Such a “special period effect” makes the player aware of the zone on the effect that spans multiple variations and stop displays of the symbol, and “something happens in this zone (winning may be obtained) ) ”.

(8) When it is determined that the “special period effect” is to be executed (executable), the individual effect content is determined for each variable display and stop display performed within the special period. The content of the production determined here reflects a scenario (scenario) such as "How to proceed with production during a special period, and how many times the production will be completed (settled)." .

(9) When the above scenario is determined, whether or not the “rush effect” is executed from the set variation time when displaying the variation of the first symbol in which the memory of the lottery elements accumulated up to the specified number is consumed first ( Whether it is possible) or not. This “rushing effect” is an effect that indicates that there is a possibility that the “special period effect” may be started over a plurality of times of the change display and stop display of the symbols to be performed later. The production time (the length of the scale) necessary to express the meaning) is standardized to some extent. On the other hand, the variation time for each time is variously set for the variation, and the variation time is not always fixed. Therefore, here, it is determined whether or not to execute the “rushing effect” depending on whether or not the first fluctuation time matches the effect time (scale) of the “rushing effect”.

(10) As a result, if it is determined that the “rush effect” is to be executed, the execution of the “rush effect” is actually controlled in the first fluctuation display and the stop display. The execution of the “special period effect” is controlled in accordance with the production contents (scenario) each time already determined.

  Therefore, even if the execution of the “special period effect” is determined in the above (7) and the individual effect content (scenario) is determined in the above (8), the effect is developed unconditionally (automatically) as it is. Instead, the execution of the “special period effect” can be controlled appropriately through the control of the “rush effect” after the execution of the “rush effect” is determined in the above (9). For this reason, even if the execution of the “special period effect” is determined in (7) above and the individual effect content (scenario) is determined in (8) above, the set change time is set for the first change display. Is not suitable for the production time, the execution of the “rush production” is postponed in (9) above. As a result, an effect is not unconditionally generated in the first variation display, and it is possible to reliably prevent the preceding and succeeding effects from becoming inconsistent.

  Solving means 2: In the solving means 1, the element obtaining means further includes a variation pattern determining element related to setting of the variation time by the symbol display means together with the lottery element on condition that a lottery opportunity has occurred during the game. The element storage means stores the lottery element acquired by the element acquisition means and the variation pattern determination element as a set up to an upper limit value in the order of acquisition, and the symbol display means The variation time is set using a memory of the variation pattern determination element paired with the lottery element consumed by the lottery execution means, and the destination determination means includes the lottery element acquired by the element acquisition means and the lottery element When a set of variation pattern determination elements is newly stored in the element storage means, the variation pattern determination elements included in the new set are changed. And determining in advance the variation pattern information relating to the setting of the variation time by the symbol display means, and the special period effect execution availability determination means determines whether or not the special period effect is to be executed. It is possible to make a determination based on a previous determination result by the previous determination means performed for storing at least one of the lottery element and the variation pattern determination element.

According to this solution, the following features are added in the present invention.
[1] In the above (1) and (2), a variation pattern determining element is acquired in addition to the lottery element, and these are stored as a set.
[2] When the lottery element is consumed in the internal lottery in (3) above, the variation pattern determining element stored in combination with this is used in (4) for setting the variation time.
[3] In the above (5), in addition to the result of the internal lottery, the variation pattern information related to the setting of the variation time is determined in advance. As a result, in addition to “whether the result of the internal lottery is a win” for the memory that combines the lottery factor and the variation pattern determination factor up to the present time, It is possible to obtain in advance information on whether the length is set.
[4] As a result, it is clear that there is, for example, “a relatively long variation time is set” even if “the result of the internal lottery wins” does not exist in the current memory. If so, it is possible to decide to execute the “special period effect” in the above (7) based on this.

  Thereby, the ground material for determining to execute the “special period effect” can be increased, and the appearance frequency of the effect can be improved as the entire gaming machine.

  Solving means 3: In the solving means 2, the destination determining means determines in advance, as the variation pattern information, a variation pattern group representing the degree of the length of the variation time set by the symbol display means, The special period effect execution availability determination unit obtains a determination result that the degree of the length of the variation time is represented by the specific variation pattern group by the prior determination of the variation pattern information by the destination determination unit. If it is, it can be determined that the special period effect is to be executed.

  According to this solution, in the prior determination of the variation pattern information, instead of making a detailed determination until the variation time that is specifically set for each variation display of the symbol, “the degree of variation time length” = Which information belongs to which variation pattern group? Even if it is such determination content, for example, if it is known in advance that it is a “reach variation pattern group” in which a relatively long variation time is set, the existence of such a variation pattern determining element is used as a basis material. It is possible to decide to execute “special period effect”. This makes it possible to reliably achieve desired presentation control while reducing the processing load required for prior determination.

  Solving means 4: In the solving means 1 to 3, when the effect control means decides not to execute the rush effect by the rush effect execution availability determination means, the first symbol variation display by the symbol display means. In addition, it is possible to control the non-execution of the rush effect at the time of the variable display effect performed by the symbol effect executing means corresponding to the stop display, and to erase the effect contents determined by the individual effect content determining means.

  According to this solution, even if the production content (scenario) is determined in (8) above, if the “rush production” is skipped in (9) above, the “rush production” is not executed in the first fluctuation display. (= Do not execute). Further, since the determined content of the production (scenario) cannot be used in the subsequent fluctuation display, the content of the production that has been determined to be unsuitable for use can be quickly deleted. Thereby, it becomes unnecessary to hold the contents of the production that has become unused.

  Solving means 5: In the solving means 4, the special period effect execution feasibility determining means, when the effect contents determined by the individual effect content determining means are erased by the effect control means, the lottery executing means determines the prescribed number. When the number of stored lottery elements reaches the specified number again after the number of stored lottery elements decreases from the specified number due to the first consumption of the lottery element storage. And determining again whether or not to execute the special period effect based on the previous determination result made by the previous determination means for storing the predetermined number of lottery elements that has been reached again, and the individual effect content The determining means is that the special period effect is executed by the special period effect execution availability determining means after the determined effect content is erased by the effect control means. If it is determined for the first time, it is possible to individually determine the contents of the effects within the special period effects for each time the symbol change display and stop display executed by the symbol display means within the special period. it can.

  According to this solution, even if the decided production content (scenario) is erased once, the memory of the lottery element (and the set of variation pattern determination elements) increases after that, and if the specified number is reached again, The determination of (7) and the determination of (8) can be performed again. In this case, there are the following advantages.

  For example, there is a “predetermined number of results” in which “the result of the internal lottery is won” or “a relatively long variable time is set” in the memory of the specified number before the determined production contents are deleted. It is assumed that the content of the effect that has been determined is erased once because the condition of the “rush effect” is not satisfied when the change is displayed.

  In this case, one memory is consumed at the time of the first fluctuation display, but in the remaining memory, there are "the result of the internal lottery wins" or "the relatively long fluctuation time is set". It is considered to exist. Accordingly, when the lottery opportunity (and a set of variation pattern determining elements) is added (for example, one is added) and the number of memories reaches a specified number within a short period of time, the remaining number will continue. The determination of (7) and the determination of (8) can be performed smoothly from the stored contents. Then, if it is determined that the “rushing effect” is executed at the time of the first variation display, the “special period effect” can be directly executed. This makes it possible to effectively utilize the contents of the existing memory (the existence of “what the internal lottery results will win” or “something with a relatively long variation time”). Can be generated.

  Solving means 6: In the solving means 1 to 5, the gaming machine according to the present invention is any one of the lottery elements before being consumed by the lottery executing means in a state where the lottery elements are stored in the element storing means. If the previous determination result made by the destination determination means satisfies a specific condition, the lottery element satisfying the specific condition is consumed by the lottery execution means within the period until the lottery element is consumed by the lottery execution means. It further comprises a destination determination announcement effect execution means for executing a destination determination announcement effect in a form that indicates in advance that there is a possibility of winning in the internal lottery, and the effect control means is provided by the destination determination announcement effect execution means. When it is determined that the rush effect is to be executed by the rush effect execution enable / disable determining unit in a state where the destination determination notice effect is being executed, the symbol display unit In response to the first variation display and stop display of the symbol, when the variation display effect is performed by the symbol effect execution means, the execution of the first determination notice effect by the first determination announcement effect execution means is terminated and the rush effect is achieved. Control the execution of

  According to this solving means, in each symbol display effect and stop display effect performed in (6) above, the contents of the memory up to the present time ("what the internal lottery result is winning" or "relatively long variation time" Preliminary effects (so-called pre-reading notice effects) can be executed on the basis of the fact that there is “one that is set”. Such a pre-decision notice effect is executed regardless of the number of memories (whether it is a specified number or not), and is a useful effect method that is different from the “special period effect”.

  In addition, in this solution, when executing the “special period effect” when the number of memories reaches the specified number during the execution of the predetermining notice effect, if the predetermining notice effect is continued as it is, the “special period effect” In consideration of the fact that there is no connection between the productions before and after the start of “N”, the “entry production” is executed after the predecessor notice production is finished, and the “special period production” is continued as it is. Thereby, consistency before and after the production can be achieved, and a flow of production that is natural and easy to understand for the player can be realized.

  Solving means 7: In the solving means 6, the effect control means does not execute the rush effect by the rush effect execution enable / disable determining means in a state where the prior determination notice effect is executed by the previous determination notice effect execution means. In the case of the variation display effect performed by the symbol effect execution unit corresponding to the first variation display and stop display of the symbol by the symbol display unit, the destination determination by the destination determination notice effect execution unit The execution of the notice effect can be continued.

This solution has the following advantages.
For example, even if the number of memories reaches a specified number in the state where the pre-determined notice effect has already occurred, and the effect content (scenario) is determined through the determination in (7) and the determination in (8) above, When the “rush effect” is skipped in (9), the effect content (scenario) is erased as a result, and the “special period effect” is not started. In this case, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the flow of the previous production is cut off by continuing the previous determination notice production that has already occurred without ending.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to smoothly develop an effect using the conditions related to the number of stored lottery elements, and to reliably prevent inconsistencies before and after.

It is a front view of a pachinko machine. It is a rear view of a pachinko machine. It is the front view which showed the game board unit independently. It is a front view which expands and shows a part of game board unit. It is a disassembled perspective view (1/2) which shows the structure of a winning device unit in detail. It is a disassembled perspective view (2/2) which shows the structure of a winning device unit in detail. It is the front view (A) and partial sectional view (B) which show a ball distribution device independently. It is a disassembled perspective view (1/2) which shows the structure of a ball distribution apparatus in detail. It is a disassembled perspective view (2/2) which shows the structure of a ball distribution apparatus in detail. It is a perspective view which shows the flow-down aspect of the game ball in a ball distribution apparatus. It is a figure (1/2) explaining the operation | movement principle of a ball distribution apparatus. It is a figure (2/2) explaining the principle of operation of a ball distribution device. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view (cross-sectional view which follows the XIX-XIX line | wire in FIG. 12) which shows the internal structure of a ball distribution apparatus. They are the front view (A) and partial sectional view (B) which showed the state of the winning device unit at the time of operation of variable start winning device 28. It is a block diagram which shows the various electronic devices with which the pachinko machine was equipped. It is a flowchart (1/2) which shows the example of a procedure of a reset start process. It is a flowchart (2/2) which shows the example of a procedure of a reset start process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a power-off occurrence check process concretely. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an interruption management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a switch input event process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a 1st special symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a 2nd special symbol memory update process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the production | presentation determination process at the time of acquisition. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the reach group selection table at the time of difference | error according to a state and the number of working memory. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a fluctuation pattern prefetch information command selection table. It is a figure which shows the reach classification corresponding table according to command. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol change pre-processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the fluctuation pattern determination process at the time of loss. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a fluctuation pattern selection table. It is a figure explaining the variation time of a special symbol. It is a figure which shows the structure row | line | column of the 1st special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. It is a figure which shows the structure column of the 2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a special symbol memory | storage area shift process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of the special symbol stop display process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a display output management process. It is a flowchart which shows the structural example of a variable winning apparatus management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big winning opening opening pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big prize opening / closing operation | movement process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a big winning opening closing process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an end process. It is a continuation figure showing an example of a production picture corresponding to change display and stop display of a special symbol. It is a continuation figure (1/2) which shows a series of flows from before the execution about the example of production performed on the condition that the total storage number has reached the regulation number. It is a continuation diagram (2/2) which shows a series of flows from the example of production shown in FIG. It is a continuous figure which shows the example of the aspect of the special zone effect performed during the change display and stop display of the special symbol over multiple times. It is a continuation figure showing the flow of reach production performed during special zone production. It is a continuation figure showing the flow of the example of the effect performed when the special zone effect cannot be started. It is a game flow figure which shows the flow on the production | generation produced on condition that the total memory number reached | attained the regulation number. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of effect control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a zone production management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a zone production scenario setting process. It is the figure which showed the example of the content of a working memory, and the "target fluctuation | variation" determined from it. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the zone production | presentation scenario setting table according to the frequency | count of change before a target. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an operation | movement memory production | presentation management process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of effect design management processing. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of an effect design change pre-process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a zone effect pattern selection process. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a procedure of a zone entry process.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter abbreviated as “pachinko machine”) 1. FIG. 2 is a rear view of the pachinko machine 1.

  The pachinko machine 1 uses a game ball as a game medium, and a player borrows a game ball from a game hall operator to play a game with the pachinko machine 1. In the game of the pachinko machine 1, each game ball is a medium having a game value, and a privilege (profit) that the player enjoys as a result of the game is, for example, a game ball acquired by the player Based on the number of games, it can be converted into a game value. Hereinafter, the overall configuration of the pachinko machine 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

〔overall structure〕
The pachinko machine 1 mainly includes an outer frame unit 2, an integrated door unit 4, and an inner frame assembly 7 (a plastic frame, a gaming machine frame) as its main body. The integrated door unit 4 is located on the foremost side when viewed from the front facing the player. An inner frame assembly 7 is located on the back side (back side) of the integrated door unit 4, and the outer frame unit 2 is disposed so as to surround the outer side of the inner frame assembly 7.

  The outer frame unit 2 is a structure in which wood and metal materials are combined in a vertically long rectangular shape. The outer frame unit 2 has a fastener such as a screw attached to an island facility (not shown) in the game hall. It is used and fixed. In the vertically long rectangular outer frame unit 2, wood is used for a portion corresponding to the upper and lower short sides, and a metal material is used for a portion corresponding to the left and right long sides.

  The integrated door unit 4 has a structure in which the tray unit 6 is integrated at a lower position thereof. The integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 are attached to the island facility via the outer frame unit 2, and these operate in an openable manner via a hinge mechanism (not shown). An opening / closing axis of a hinge mechanism (not shown) extends in the vertical direction along the left end as viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1.

  A unified lock unit 9 is provided on the inner side of the right edge (the left edge in FIG. 2) of the inner frame assembly 7 when viewed from the front in FIG. Correspondingly, a locking tool (not shown) is also provided on the right side edge (back side) of the integrated door unit 4 and the outer frame unit 2. As shown in FIG. 1, in the state where the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 are closed with respect to the outer frame unit 2, the unified lock unit 9 on the back side of the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly together with the locking device. 7 cannot be opened.

  A cylinder lock 6 a with a key hole is provided on the right edge of the tray unit 6. For example, when an administrator of the game hall inserts a dedicated key into the keyhole and twists the cylinder lock 6a clockwise, the unified lock unit 9 operates and the integrated door unit 4 can be opened together with the inner frame assembly 7. . If these are opened from the outer frame unit 2 to the front side (moved like a door), the back side of the pachinko machine 1 is exposed on the front side.

  On the other hand, when the cylinder lock 6a is twisted counterclockwise, only the locking of the integrated door unit 4 is released while the inner frame assembly 7 remains locked, and the integrated door unit 4 can be opened. When the integrated door unit 4 is opened to the front side, the game board unit 8 is directly exposed, and in this state, the manager of the game hall can remove obstacles such as ball clogging in the board surface. When the integrated door unit 4 is opened, the tray unit 6 is also opened to the front side.

  The pachinko machine 1 includes the game board unit 8 as a game unit. The game board unit 8 is supported by the inner frame assembly 7 behind (inside) the integrated door unit 4. The game board unit 8 can be attached to and detached from the inner frame assembly 7 with the integrated door unit 4 opened to the front side, for example. The integrated door unit 4 is formed with a vertically oval window 4a at the center thereof, and a glass unit 4b is mounted in the window 4a. The glass unit 4b is a combination of two transparent plates (glass plates) cut in accordance with the shape of the window 4a, for example. The glass unit 4b is attached to the back side of the integrated door unit 4 via a fixture (not shown). A game area 8a (board surface, game board) is formed on the front surface of the game board unit 8, and this game area 8a is visible to the player from the front side through the window 4a. When the integrated door unit 4 is closed, a space in which a game ball can flow down is formed between the inner surface of the glass unit 4b and the board surface.

  The saucer unit 6 has a shape protruding from the integrated door unit 4 to the front side as a whole, and an upper plate 6b is formed on the upper surface thereof. The upper plate 6b can store a game ball (rental ball) lent to a player and a game ball (prize ball) acquired by winning a prize. In the tray unit 6, a lower tray 6c is formed at the lower position of the upper tray 6b. The lower tray 6c stores game balls that are further paid out when the upper tray 6b is full. The pachinko machine 1 according to the present embodiment is a so-called CR machine (model connected to the CR unit), and the game balls borrowed by the player are separately received from the payout unit 172 on the back side separately from the prize balls. 6b or lower pan 6c).

  A lending operation unit 14 is provided on the upper surface of the tray unit 6, and a ball lending button 10 and a return button 12 are arranged on the lending operation unit 14. When a player operates the ball lending button 10 with a valuable medium (for example, a magnetic recording medium, a storage IC built-in medium, etc.) inserted in a CR unit (not shown), the number corresponding to a predetermined frequency unit (for example, 5 degrees). (For example, 125) game balls are lent out. For this reason, a frequency display unit (not shown) is arranged on the upper surface of the lending operation unit 14, and the remaining frequency of the valuable medium put in the CR unit is displayed on this frequency display unit. The player can receive the return of the valuable medium with the remaining frequency by operating the return button 12. Although the CR machine is taken as an example in the present embodiment, the pachinko machine 1 may be a cash machine (a model not connected to the CR unit) different from the CR machine.

  Further, on the upper surface of the tray unit 6, an upper dish ball removal button 6d is provided in front of the upper dish 6b in the upper position, and a lower dish ball removal lever 6e is provided in the center of the lower dish 6c. Is installed. The player can cause the game balls stored in the upper plate 6b to flow down to the lower plate 6c by, for example, pressing the upper plate ball removing button 6d. Further, the player can drop the game balls stored in the lower tray 6c downward and discharge them by sliding the lower tray ball removal lever 6e to the left, for example. The discharged game ball is received by, for example, a ball receiving box (not shown).

  A handle unit 16 is installed on the lower right side of the tray unit 6. The player operates the handle unit 16 to operate the launch control board set 174 and can launch (shoot) a game ball toward the game area 8a (ball launcher). The launched game ball rises from the lower edge portion of the game board unit 8 along the left edge portion, is guided by an outer band (not shown), and is thrown into the game area 8a. A large number of obstacle nails, windmills (without reference numerals in the drawing) and the like are arranged in the game area 8a, and the thrown-in game balls flow down in the game area 8a while being guided and guided by the obstacle nails and the windmill. The configuration of the game area 8a (board surface, game board) will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

[Configuration of the front of the frame]
The integrated door unit 4 is provided with a left top lens unit 47 and an upper right illumination unit 49 as components for production. Among these, the left top lens unit 47 incorporates a glass frame top lamp 46 and a left glass frame decoration lamp 48, and the upper right electrical decoration unit 49 incorporates a right glass frame decoration lamp 50. In addition, left and right glass frame decoration lamps 52 are installed in the integrated door unit 4 so as to be connected to the lower part of the left top lens unit 47 and the upper right illumination unit 49, respectively. It extends from the left and right edges of the integrated door unit 4 to the front surface of the tray unit 6. In the integrated door unit 4, the glass frame top lamp 46 and the left and right glass frame decoration lamps 48, 50, and 52 are arranged so as to surround the glass unit.

  The various lamps 46, 48, 50, and 52 described above perform effects by, for example, the light emission of the built-in LEDs (lighting and blinking, change in luminance gradation, change in color tone, and the like). Further, on the upper part of the integrated door unit 4, speakers on the glass frame 54 and 55 are incorporated in the left top lens unit 47 and the upper right illumination unit 49, respectively. On the other hand, an outer frame speaker 56 is incorporated in the lower left position of the outer frame unit 2. These speakers 54, 55, and 56 output sound effects, BGM, voice, etc. (sound in general) and execute effects.

  In the center of the tray unit 6, an effect switching button 45 is installed at a position in front of the upper plate 6b. The effect switching button 45 has, for example, a combination of a push-type circular button and a rotary jog ring (jog dial) around it. The player switches the contents of the effect (for example, the background screen displayed on the liquid crystal display 42) by pushing or rotating the effect switching button 45, or during the change of the symbol, the display of the big hit, or the like During the big hit game, some kind of effect (notice effect, probability change promotion effect, promotion effect while playing a big role, etc.) can be generated.

[Configuration on the back side]
As shown in FIG. 2, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, there are a power supply control unit 162, a main control board unit 170, a dispensing device unit 172, a flow path unit 173, a launch control board set 174, and a dispensing control board unit 176. A back cover unit 178 and the like are installed. In addition, on the back side of the pachinko machine 1, various electronic devices (including a control computer not shown) constituting the power supply system and control system of the pachinko machine 1, an external terminal board 160, a power cord (power plug) 164, A ground wire (ground terminal) 166, connection wiring (not shown), and the like are installed.

  The payout device unit 172 includes, for example, a prize ball tank 172a and a prize ball case (no reference symbol), and the prize ball tank 172a is installed on the upper edge (back side) of the inner frame assembly 7. In this state, game balls replenished from a replenishment route (not shown) can be stored. The game balls stored in the prize ball tank 172a are guided to a prize ball case through an upper prize ball basket (not shown). The flow path unit 173 guides the game ball sent out from the payout unit 172 toward the tray unit 6 on the front side.

  The external terminal board 160 is for connecting the pachinko machine 1 to an external electronic device (for example, a data display device, a hall computer, etc.). From the external terminal board 160, the game progress of the pachinko machine 1 is achieved. Various external information signals (for example, award ball information, door opening information, symbol determination number information, jackpot information, start opening information, etc.) indicating the state and maintenance state are output to an external electronic device. Yes.

  The power cord 164 secures a power source (electric power) necessary for the operation of the pachinko machine 1 by being connected to, for example, a power source device (for example, AC 24V) installed in an island facility of a game arcade. The ground wire 166 is also connected to a ground terminal installed in the island facility to secure the ground (ground) of the pachinko machine 1.

[Configuration of the board]
FIG. 3 is a front view showing the game board unit 8 alone. The game board unit 8 includes a game board 8b serving as a base, and a game area 8a is formed on the front side of the game board 8b. The game board 8b is made of, for example, a transparent resin plate. When the game board unit 8 is fixed to the inner frame assembly 7, the front surface of the game board 8b is parallel to the glass unit 4b. On the front surface of the game board 8b, the above-described game area 8a is formed inside a launch rail (not indicated by reference numeral) installed in a substantially circular shape.

  In the game area 8a, a winning device unit 190, a variable winning device 30 and the like are installed in addition to the start gate 20 and the normal winning ports 22 and 24. The winning device unit 190 includes the ball sorting device 200 and the start winning port unit 300. As shown by the arrows in FIG. 3, the game balls that are driven into the game area 8 a randomly pass through the start gate 20 in the process of flowing down, or win the normal winning holes 22 and 24. Alternatively, it passes through the ball sorting apparatus 200 or enters the starting prize opening unit 300. The start winning opening unit 300 has, for example, two start winning openings (not shown in FIG. 3) arranged on the left and right, and the game balls distributed by the ball distribution device 200 are the start winning openings. In the unit 300, it is possible to enter either the left or right start winning opening.

  Of the game balls that have been struck, the game balls that have passed through the start gate 20 continue to flow down in the game area 8 a, but either enter the normal winning ports 22, 24 or left or right in the starting winning port unit 300. The game balls that have entered the starting prize opening are collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through an opening (not shown) formed in the game board 8b. The details of the winning device unit 190 including the ball sorting device 200 and the start winning port unit 300 will be described later with reference to another drawing.

  In the winning device unit 190, the variable starting winning device 28 is installed on the left side of the starting winning port unit 300. The variable start winning device 28 corresponds to the left start winning port in the winning device unit 190.

  The variable start winning device 28 has, for example, a pair of left and right movable pieces 28b. These movable pieces 28b are operated by a link mechanism using, for example, a solenoid (not shown in FIG. 3). It reciprocates in the left-right direction along the front surface of the plate 8b. Such a reciprocating operation corresponds to an operation of changing the width of the inflow path of the game ball formed between the pair of movable pieces 28b, and in the present embodiment, this is referred to as an opening / closing operation. The variable start winning device 28 operates when a predetermined condition is satisfied (when a normal symbol is stopped and displayed over a stop display time in a winning manner), and performs the above opening / closing operation.

  The opening / closing operation of the pair of movable pieces 28b is performed in the following manner. That is, as shown by the solid line in the figure, the left and right movable pieces 28b are in the non-operating position with the tip facing upward, and the opening width through which the game ball can flow between the movable pieces 28b is narrowed at this time. It is in the state. At this time, it is not easy for the variable start winning device 28 to enter the ball, but it is possible to generate the ball. That is, a game ball can flow from above the pair of left and right movable pieces 28b. For example, a game ball released from the ball sorting apparatus 200 can flow between the pair of left and right movable pieces 28b.

  On the other hand, when the variable start winning device 28 is activated, the left and right movable pieces 28b are displaced (expanded) from the non-actuated position toward the open position, as indicated by the two-dot chain line in the figure. The width of the inflow passage formed between them is expanded to the left and right. During this time, the variable start winning device 28 is in a state where the inflow of the game ball is facilitated, and it is possible to easily generate the ball as compared with the non-operating state. The details of the variable start winning device 28 and the left start winning opening will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Further, the start winning opening unit 300 is provided with a pair of fixed pieces 302 a on the right side of the variable start winning apparatus 28. The pair of fixed pieces 302a correspond to the right start winning opening in the winning device unit 190 (but not the winning opening itself).

  The pair of fixed pieces 302a also form an inflow path for game balls therebetween, but the width is always fixed. Although the width of the pair of movable pieces 28b is fixed, game balls can flow in from above the movable pieces 28b. For example, the game balls released from the ball sorting apparatus 200 are not shown in the right start winning prize. After entering the mouth, it can flow between the pair of left and right fixed pieces 302a. Details of the fixed piece 302a and the right start winning opening will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  The arrangement of the obstacle nails installed on the game board 8b is basically a mode in which it is easy to guide the flow of the game balls toward the ball sorting device 200 and the start winning opening unit 300. It does not flow into the sorting device 200 or the left and right start winning openings (between the pair of movable pieces 28b or between the pair of fixed pieces 302a), and the inflow of game balls occurs randomly.

  The above variable winning device 30 operates when a prescribed condition is satisfied (when a special symbol is stopped and displayed for a stop display time in a mode other than non-winning), and a big winning opening (no reference sign). Enables to enter the game (winning) (special electric accessory). The variable winning device 30 is a winning device provided at an upper position in the game area 8a (so-called upper attacker), and in this embodiment, the variable winning device 30 is on the left side of the upper end portion of the effect unit 40 (details will be described later). Has been placed. The variable winning device 30 has, for example, one open / close member 30a, and the open / close member 30a is displaced from the closed position toward the open position by the action of a link mechanism using a solenoid (not shown), for example. As shown in the figure, the opening / closing member 30a is in the closed position (closed state) with the tip facing upward (continuous with the rendering unit 40), and at this time, the winning (winning) to the big prize opening is always performed. It is impossible (the big prize opening is closed). When the variable winning device 30 is activated, the opening / closing member 30a is displaced so as to fall to the left with a hinge (not shown) as the center, thereby opening the large winning opening (open state). During this time, the variable winning device 30 is in a state where it is not impossible for the game ball to flow in, and can enter the winning ball (winning) into the big winning opening. At this time, the opening / closing member 30a also functions as a member for guiding the inflow of the game ball to the special winning opening. The game ball that has flowed into the big winning opening passes through the count switch 84 and is detected as a winning ball (winning), and then is collected to the back side of the game board unit 8 through a collecting passage (no reference symbol).

  In the game board unit 8, the effect unit 40 is installed from the center position to the right side portion. The production unit 40 has an upper edge portion 40a that functions as a guide member that changes the flow direction of the game ball, and includes various decorative parts 40b, 40c, 40k, and the like inside. The decorative parts 40b, 40c, and 40k enhance the decorativeness of the game board unit 8 by three-dimensional modeling, and perform a stunning operation by emitting transmitted light using, for example, a built-in light emitter (LED or the like). Can do. In addition, a liquid crystal display 42 (image display) is installed inside the effect unit 40, and various effect images are displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, including effect symbols corresponding to special symbols. . In this way, the game board unit 8 impresses the player with the characteristics of the pachinko machine 1 based on the configuration of the board surface and the decorativeness of the effect unit 40. Further, when the game board 8b is a transparent resin board (for example, an acrylic board) as in the present embodiment, various decorative bodies (including a movable body and a light emitting body) arranged not only on the front side but also behind the game board 8b. ) Can be added.

  A plurality (eight in this case) of memory display bodies 41a to 41h and one logo display body 40m are installed from the lower edge portion to the right edge portion of the effect unit 40. Among these, the memory display bodies 41a to 41h are arranged so as to surround the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 from the lower position to the right edge position, and at the right edge position from the memory display body 41a located at the left end in the lower position. The entire memory display body 41h has an arcuate shape. The logo display body 40m is disposed at the upper right edge of the display screen, and the uppermost memory display body 41h is adjacent to the logo display body 40m.

  The logo display body 40m has a configuration based on, for example, a circular decorative part, and a decorative character (logo mark) designed with alphabets “E” and “Z” is attached to the front surface thereof. Further, each of the memory display bodies 41a to 41h has a configuration based on, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped decorative part, and the numbers “1” to “8” are attached to the front surface in a manner that is easily visible to the player. (Not shown in FIG. 3). Each of the logo display body 40m and the plurality of memory display bodies 41a to 41h includes a light emitting device (LED) (not shown), and displays a logo by changing its lighting state (lighting color, lighting pattern). The body 40m and each of the memory display bodies 41a to 41h can individually perform an effect operation by light emission.

  Further, the plurality of memory display bodies 41a to 41h can also be used as the movable body described above. That is, a memory display motor (not shown) is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and this memory is used as a drive source to operate each of the memory displays 41a to 41h using a link mechanism or a gear transmission mechanism (not shown). Can be made. In addition, the specific production | generation aspect accompanied by light emission of the logo display body 40m, light emission and movement of the memory display bodies 41a-41h is mentioned later.

  A ball guide passage 40d is formed at the left edge of the effect unit 40, and a rolling stage 40e is formed at the lower edge thereof. The ball guide passage 40d is opened obliquely upward to the left in the game area 8a. When a game ball flowing down in the game area 8a randomly flows into the ball guide path 40d, it passes through the inside and rolls. Released onto the stage 40e. The upper surface of the rolling stage 40e has a smooth curved surface. Here, the game ball can roll in the left-right direction. The game ball that has rolled on the rolling stage 40e will eventually flow into the lower game area 8a. The rolling stage 40e has a ball discharge portion 40i formed at a substantially central position thereof, and the game ball flowing down from the rolling stage 40e via the ball discharge portion 40i enters the ball sorting device 200 directly below the ball release portion 40i. It becomes easier to play a ball (but not necessarily a ball).

  An inflow passage 40g is formed at a substantially central position of the rolling stage 40e, and game balls can randomly flow into the inflow passage 40g from the rolling stage 40e. The inflow passage 40g is formed by extending the lower edge portion of the effect unit 40 downward and then bent in an L shape toward the front side, and a ball discharge port 40h is formed at the end thereof. The ball discharge port 40h is opened toward the front surface, and the opening position is located immediately above the ball sorting apparatus 200. For this reason, the game ball that has flowed into the inflow passage 40g from above the rolling stage 40e is discharged from the ball discharge port 40h and easily flows into the ball sorter 200 immediately below it (however, it does not always flow in). .)

  The effect unit 40 is provided with a large rotating lamp 41 at the upper right position of the liquid crystal display 42. The large rotating lamp 41 is composed of, for example, a light-transmitting resin cover and a decorative body (both without reference numerals). Of these, the resin cover is formed into a container (dome bottom) shape, for example, of a red translucent material, and a light emitter (for example, LED) and a reflector (not shown) are provided inside the resin cover. Yes. The reflector has a structure imitating a concave mirror, for example, and is disposed in a state where the mirror surface is opposed to the reflector. Further, the reflector can be rotated within the resin cover by the power of a motor (not shown), for example. At this time, the reflector moves so as to rotate its mirror surface along the periphery of the light emitter. The rotational axis of the motor coincides with the central axis of the resin cover (a virtual line slightly inclined to the right in FIG. 3).

  For this reason, the large-sized rotating lamp 41 reflects the light emitted from the light emitter by condensing it with a concave mirror by rotating the reflector with a motor while emitting light from the light emitter, and rotates the reflected light like a lighthouse. It can be transmitted through the cover. Even if the illuminant emits white light at this time, since the resin cover material is translucent red, the light emitting operation of the large rotating lamp 41 is as if the red rotating lamp is rotating. It will be visually recognized.

  In addition, an out port 32 is formed in the game area 8 a, and game balls that have not entered (winned) in various winning ports are finally collected through the out port 32 to the back side of the game board unit 8. In addition, all game balls that have been driven into the game area 8a, including the game balls that have entered the normal winning ports 22, 24, the start winning port unit 300, and the variable winning device 30, are collected to the back side of the game board unit 8. Is done. The collected game balls are discharged out of the frame from the back side of the pachinko machine 1 through an out passage assembly (not shown), and further join a supply path of an island facility (not shown).

  FIG. 4 is an enlarged front view showing a part of the game board unit 8 (lower right position in the window 4a). That is, the game board unit 8 is provided with a normal symbol display device 33 and a normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a at the lower right position in the window 4a, for example, as well as a first special symbol display device 34 and a second special symbol display device. 35 and a game status display device 38 are provided. Among these, the normal symbol display device 33, for example, turns on two lamps (LEDs) alternately to display the normal symbols variably, and stops and displays the normal symbols when the lamps are turned on or off. The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a displays 0 to 4 memory numbers depending on, for example, a combination of turning off, lighting, or blinking of two lamps (LEDs). For example, in a display mode in which both lamps are extinguished, a memory number of 0 is displayed, in a display mode in which one lamp is lit, a memory number of 1 is displayed, and in a display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked. In the display mode in which two stored numbers are displayed, and in addition to blinking one lamp, the other lamp is lit, three stored numbers are displayed, and in the display mode in which the two lamps are flashed together, the stored number is four. For example, the individual is displayed. Here, although two lamps (LEDs) are used here, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a may be configured using four lamps (LEDs). In this case, the number of working memories can be displayed by the number of lamps to be lit.

  The normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a changes to the display mode after being incremented one by one in the sense of memorizing the occurrence of an operation lottery trigger each time a game ball passes through the start gate 20. Then, every time a change of the normal symbol is started with the passage (up to 4) as a trigger, the display mode is changed by one by one. In the present embodiment, when the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the game ball passes through the start gate 20 in a state where the normal symbol can already start to change (during stop display). The display mode does not change. That is, the memorized number (maximum 4) represented by the display mode of the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a represents the number of passages at which the variation of the normal symbol has not started yet.

  In addition, the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 display, for example, a change state and a stopped state of the corresponding first special symbol or second special symbol by 7 segment LED (with dots), respectively. (Symbol display means). The first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 may have a form in which a plurality of dot LEDs are arranged geometrically (for example, in a circular shape).

  Further, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a have 0 to 4 each, for example, depending on a display mode constituted by a combination of extinction or lighting and blinking of two lamps (LEDs). Is stored (memory number display means). For example, in a display mode in which both lamps are extinguished, a memory number of 0 is displayed, in a display mode in which one lamp is lit, a memory number of 1 is displayed, and in a display mode in which the same one lamp is blinked. In the display mode in which two stored numbers are displayed, and in addition to blinking one lamp, the other lamp is lit, three stored numbers are displayed, and in the display mode in which the two lamps are flashed together, the stored number is four. For example, the individual is displayed.

  The first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is 1 in the sense of memorizing that a winning to the right starting winning opening is generated each time a game ball flows between the pair of fixed pieces 302a in the starting winning opening unit 300. The display mode is increased one by one (up to a maximum of four), and each time the special symbol starts to change with the winning, the display mode is decreased one by one. Further, the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is one in the sense of storing that a winning to the left starting winning opening has occurred each time a game ball flows into the variable starting winning device 28 in the starting winning opening unit 300. Each time the display mode is increased (up to a maximum of 4), each time the change of the special symbol is started with the winning, the display mode is decreased one by one. In the present embodiment, when the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the pair of fixed pieces 302a of the pair of fixed pieces 302a is in a state in which the first special symbol can already start to change (when stopped). Even if a game ball flows in between, the display mode does not change. When the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is not lit (the number of memories is 0), the game ball flows into the variable start winning device 28 in a state in which the second special symbol can already start to change (during stop display). However, the display mode does not change. That is, the number of memories (maximum 4) represented by the display mode of each special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, 35a is the number of winnings that have not yet started to change in the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Represents.

  The game state display device 38 includes five LEDs corresponding to, for example, jackpot type display lamps 38a and 38b, a probability variation state display lamp 38c, a time reduction state display lamp 38d, and a launch position designation lamp 38e (not used). ing. In the present embodiment, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol are described. The symbol operation memory lamp 35a and the game state display device 38 are attached to the game board unit 8 in a state of being mounted on one integrated display board 89.

[Composition of winning equipment unit]
5 and 6 are exploded perspective views showing the configuration of the winning device unit 190 in detail. Of these, FIG. 5 shows the winning device unit 190 from diagonally upward and forward, and FIG. 6 shows the winning device unit 190 from diagonally upward and backward.

  As described above, the winning device unit 190 includes the ball distributing device 200 and the starting winning port unit 300, and the ball distributing device 200 is located above the starting winning port unit 300. The winning device unit 190 includes a base member 192. The base member 192 is installed at a position covering an opening provided in the game board 8b (shown in FIG. 3). The ball sorter 200 is roughly composed of a front part 200a and a rear part 200b, and these two parts 200a and 200b are located on the front and rear sides of the base member 192. That is, the front part 200 a is installed on the front side of the base member 192, and the rear part 200 b is installed on the back side of the base member 192. The internal structure of each part 200a, 200b will be further described later.

(Ball passage hole)
Two sphere passage holes 196 that form a pair in the width direction (left and right) are formed below the ball sorting device 200 at a lower position of the base member 192. These ball passage holes 196 have the same shape and are formed so as to penetrate the base member 192 in the thickness direction. These ball passage holes 196 allow the game balls that have flowed in between the pair of movable pieces 28 b or the fixed pieces 302 a in the start winning opening unit 300 to pass through the back side of the game board unit 8 one by one.

[Moving piece installation part]
The base member 192 is formed with two arc-shaped holes 194 and two pin holes 195 that form a pair on both sides of each ball passage hole 196. For this reason, there are two sets of arcuate holes 194 and pin holes 195 corresponding to each of the pair of ball passage holes 196, two on the left and right. The arc-shaped hole 194 is formed so as to penetrate the base member 192 in the thickness direction. The pin hole 195 has the base member 192 depressed from the front surface side in the thickness direction, and the back surface side thereof is raised to a convex shape. Is formed. When viewed from the front side of the base member 192, the arc-shaped hole 194 is C-shaped on the right side of the ball passage hole 196, and is inverted C-shaped on the left side. Each pin hole 195 is located at the center of an arc drawn by each arc-shaped hole 194.

  A pair of movable pieces 28b constituting the variable start winning device 28 is installed on the base member 192 via a hinge pin 28d. At this time, most of the hinge pin 28d is inserted into each movable piece 28b, but both ends protrude on the front side and the back side, respectively, and the end protruding to the back side is fitted into the pin hole 195. Yes. Further, the pair of movable pieces 28b are integrally formed with link rods 28c protruding to the back surface side, and these link rods 28c are respectively formed in the arcuate holes 194 in the installed state of the pair of movable pieces 28b. Has been inserted.

[Drive mechanism installation section]
On the other hand, two sets of installation bosses 192 a are formed on the back surface side of the base member 192 so as to correspond to the pair of passage holes 196, respectively. There are a total of four installation bosses 192a, of which two located on both sides of each passage hole 196 form one set, and a total of two sets on the left and right.

(Drive mechanism)
The variable start winning device 28 includes a solenoid 88 serving as a power source of the drive mechanism, and this solenoid 88 is installed on the back side of the base member 192 via a bracket 880. At this time, the bracket 880 is screwed to the installation boss 192a. In addition to the solenoid 88, the variable start winning device 28 includes two link arms 882, a link pin 886, and one link rod 884 as a drive mechanism, and the link rod 884 is a plunger of the solenoid 88 (see Attached). The link rod 884 extends left and right (horizontal direction) around the plunger, and one end of each link arm 882 is pin-joined at both ends thereof. Each link arm 882 has an L shape, and an intermediate position bent to the L shape is supported by the bracket 880 via a link pin 886. The other end portion of the link arm 882 has a C shape in a side view, and is attached so that the open end portion of the C shape holds the end portion of the link rod 28c of each movable piece 28b from above and below.

  When the plunger is extended with the solenoid 88 turned off, each link arm 882 pushes down the link rod 28c of each movable piece 28b, so that the pair of movable pieces 28b are held in the non-operating position described above. When the plunger contracts while the solenoid 88 is ON, the link rod 884 is retracted by being attracted to the solenoid 88, and accordingly, each link arm 882 lifts the link rod 28c of each movable piece 28b. As a result, the pair of movable pieces 28b rotate symmetrically about the hinge pin 28d (about one quarter rotation) and are displaced to the open position described above. At this time, the lifted link rod 28 c moves circularly along each arcuate hole 194. Thereafter, when the solenoid 88 is turned off, the plunger is extended by a repulsive force of a turn spring (not shown), and the pair of movable pieces 28b are returned to the inoperative position again.

  Here, as described above, the base member 192 is provided with two sets of left and right arc-shaped holes 194 and pin holes 195 on the front surface side corresponding to the pair of left and right ball passage holes 196, respectively. Two sets of left and right installation bosses 192a are provided on the side. Therefore, the base member 192 can be selectively provided with a pair of movable pieces 28b with respect to either the left or right ball passage hole 196, and a drive mechanism such as a solenoid 88 is provided. Is possible.

  In addition, in the winning device unit 190 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, a pair of movable pieces 28b are installed by selectively using a pair of arc-shaped holes 194 and hinge pins 28d located on the left side when viewed from the front side. On the back side, a drive mechanism such as a solenoid 88 is installed using a set of installation bosses 192a located on the corresponding side (left side when viewed from the front side). As described above, when the winning device unit 190 is configured, the front-side member 302 of the first form is applied to the start winning port unit 300. Hereinafter, the front side member 302 of the first embodiment will be described.

(Front side member)
The front side member 302 is installed on the front side of the base member 192 so as to cover the pair of left and right ball passage holes 196. At this time, the front-side member 302 of the first form supports the pair of movable pieces 28b between the arc-shaped hole 194 and the pin hole 195 corresponding to the left-side ball passage hole 196 when viewed from the front side, The fixing piece 302a is provided at a position corresponding to the ball passage hole 196.

  That is, a pair of pin holes 302e are formed on the left side when viewed from the front side on the inner wall of the front side member 302, and the ends of the hinge pins 28d protruding from the pair of movable pieces 28b to the front side are formed in these pin holes 302e. The parts are fitted together. Accordingly, the pair of movable pieces 28b are supported so as to be openable and closable with the front side member 302 attached.

  In addition, a movable piece receiving portion 302b is integrally formed on the left side when viewed from the front side inside the front side member 302, and the movable piece receiving portion 302b covers the lower side of the pair of movable pieces 28b. Further, the movable piece receiving portion 302b can support the outer surface of each movable piece 28b in a state where the pair of movable pieces 28b are displaced to the open position.

  Further, in the front side member 302, a ball receiving portion 302c is formed integrally with the movable piece receiving portion 302b. The ball receiving portion 302c receives the game ball flowing between the pair of movable pieces 28b and guides it toward the corresponding ball passing hole 196. In addition, a spherical guiding rib 302d is formed inside the front side member 302 at the center position of the movable piece receiving portion 302b and the spherical receiving portion 302c when viewed in the left-right direction. The sphere guide rib 302d is located at a corner between the inner wall surface of the front member 302 and the bottom surface of the sphere receiving portion 302c, and is curved in an arc shape from above toward the lower edge of the sphere passage hole 196 in a side view. doing. For this reason, the game ball that has flowed in between the pair of movable pieces 28b can be smoothly guided through the ball guide rib 302d and passed through the ball passage hole 196 while being received by the ball receiving portion 302c.

  On the other hand, the pair of fixing pieces 302a are integrally formed in the right side as viewed from the front side of the front side member 302 as described above. The pair of fixed pieces 302a are connected to each other inside the front side member 302, and these form a U shape as a whole in the back view. A ball guide rib 302d similar to the ball receiving portion 302c is formed at the center position of the pair of fixed pieces 302a. For this reason, the game ball that has flowed in between the pair of fixed pieces 302a is received inside the front side member 302, and can be smoothly guided through the ball guide rib 302d to pass through the ball passage hole 196.

[Other configurations]
In addition, the winning device unit 190 includes a right starting winning port switch 80, a left starting winning port switch 82, back covers 304 and 306, and the like. The left and right start winning opening switches 80 and 82 respectively detect that a game ball has passed through the corresponding ball passage hole 196. The back covers 304 and 306 are screwed to the back surface of the base member 192 to prevent the right start winning port switch 80 or the left starting winning port switch 82 from falling off. In addition, ball guide portions 304a and 306a are integrally formed on the back covers 304 and 306, respectively, and these ball guide portions 304a and 306a are out passages (not shown) of game balls that have passed through the corresponding ball passage holes 196. Guide towards the assembly. The left back cover 304 as viewed from the front side has a shape in which interference with the link arm 882 is prevented.

  As described above, the winning device unit 190 attaches the front side member 302 to the base member 192 so that the left sphere passage hole 196 corresponds to the variable start winning device 28 and the right sphere passage hole 196 serves as the start winning opening. It can be used corresponding to

When the game board unit 8 is configured by applying the winning device unit 190, the following gaming characteristics are realized in the pachinko machine 1.
(1) In the normal state in which the operation frequency of the variable start winning device 28 is set to be relatively low, the player performs “left-handed” driving a game ball into the left portion of the game area 8a, whereby the ball sorting device 200 The game ball can be made to enter the variable start winning device 28 through the sorting operation according to. Note that the game ball can also be entered through the sorting operation by the ball sorting device 200 at the start winning opening on the right side.
(2) Even in the time reduction function operating state in which the operating frequency of the variable start winning device 28 is set to be higher than that in the normal state, the player performs “left-handed” mainly, so that the distributing operation by the ball distributing device 200 is performed. Then, a ball enters the variable start winning device 28, and a ball enters the variable start winning device 28 also from the left side of the ball sorting device 200. As for the right start winning opening, a game ball can be entered through a sorting operation by the ball sorting device 200 as in the normal state.

[Configuration of ball sorter]
Next, the configuration of the ball sorting apparatus 200 will be described.
FIG. 7 is a front view (A) and a partial cross-sectional view (B) showing the ball sorting apparatus 200 alone. In FIG. 7 and the subsequent drawings, illustration of reference numerals of parts not related to the description of the ball sorting apparatus 200 is omitted as appropriate in order to prevent complication.

  The ball sorting apparatus 200 includes the front part 200a and the rear part 200b as described above, and these two parts 200a and 200b mainly constitute the main body portion (apparatus body) of the ball sorting apparatus 200. Note that the rear part 200b is not shown in a front view, and the rear part 200b is not shown in FIG.

  The ball sorter 200 uses a base member 192 as a part of its constituent elements. That is, as described above, the front part 200a is attached to the front surface of the base member 192, and the inflow port 202 is formed at an upper position of the front part 200a and the base member 192 in this state. In addition, the inflow port 202 is opened upward in the game area 8a, and the game ball flowing down from above flows into the inflow port 202.

  Further, the ball sorting apparatus 200 has two outlets (a first discharge port 204 and a second discharge port 203) with respect to one inflow port 202. The game balls that have flowed into the inflow port 202 are divided into two flow paths inside the ball distribution device 200 and guided to either the first discharge port 204 or the second discharge port 203. The first discharge port 204 and the second discharge port 203 are both open toward the front surface inside the front part 200a. That is, the opening surfaces of the first discharge port 204 and the second discharge port 203 are arranged in parallel with the front surface (board surface) of the game board 8b.

  In order to form the first discharge port 204 and the second discharge port 203 that are open on the front surface, the ball sorter 200 is formed with vertical rectifying guide paths 208 and 209 in front view. These rectification induction paths 208 and 209 are respectively connected to both ends of the distribution induction path 201 and are bent toward the back side of the rear part 200b therefrom. And each rectification | straightening induction path 208,209 is diverted on the back surface side of the rear part 200b below, and is further reversed (U-turn) so that it may return to the front surface side. And the 1st discharge port 204 and the 2nd discharge port 203 are located in the termination | terminus (open end) in which each rectification | straightening induction path 208,209 was reversed. The rectifying guide paths 208 and 209 are formed inside the rear part 200b on the back side of the base member 192. Further, transparent resin material is used for the front part 200a and the base member 192 including the rear part 200b, thereby ensuring the visibility of the game ball inside the ball sorting apparatus 200.

  In order to perform the game ball distribution operation, a windmill-type rotating body 205 is disposed inside the front part 200 a at a position directly below the inflow port 202. The rotating body 205 has three wing members 205a, 205b, and 205c extending radially from the central axis. The rotating body 205 does not perform an operation by electric or other power, and rotates when the game ball collides with the wing members 205a, 205b, and 205c.

  Further, a distribution guiding path 201 extending downwardly and incline along the board surface is formed at a position below the rotating body 205 in the front part 200a. Two projections 206 a and 206 b that restrict the rotation of the rotating body 205 are provided at the center position of the distribution guiding path 201. The rotation of the rotating body 205 is restricted when the wing members 205a and 205b come into contact with the protrusions 206a and 206b.

[Left and right start winning entries]
Here, in the winning device unit 190, a right starting winning port 26 and a left starting winning port 28a are formed between the ball sorting device 200 and the starting winning port unit 300. That is, the base member 192 is formed with four stud members 198 protruding from the front surface thereof. These stud members 198 form a set of two each at a position directly below the first discharge port 204 and the second discharge port 203 of the ball sorter 200. Further, the two stud members 198 forming each set are arranged in the width direction at a predetermined interval. Each stud member 198 has a transverse trapezoidal cross section, and in the example shown in the figure, two stud members 198 forming each set are arranged with the portions corresponding to the lower base of the trapezoid facing each other. . In this state, an entrance for a game ball, that is, a right start winning opening 26 and a left starting winning opening 28a are formed between the two stud members 198 forming each set.

  Of these, the game ball that has entered the right start winning opening 26 flows directly between the pair of fixed pieces 302a, passes through the right ball passing hole 196 as described above, and is detected by the right start winning opening switch 80. Is done. When the winning detection signal by the right start winning opening switch 80 is processed effectively, a winning is generated at the right starting winning opening 26, and the operation memory corresponding to, for example, the first special symbol is stored in the game control. It is performed within the upper limit (for example, 4). The game control is performed by a main control CPU (not shown) mounted on the main control board unit 170.

  The game ball that has entered the left start winning opening 28a flows between the pair of movable pieces 28b when the variable start winning device 28 is not in operation, and passes through the left ball passing hole 196 as described above. It is detected by the left start winning a prize opening switch 82. When the variable start winning device 28 is operated, the pair of movable pieces 28b are displaced to the open position as described above. In this state, not between the two stud members 198 but between the tips of the pair of movable pieces 28b becomes the left start winning opening 28a, and the opening width thereof is enlarged. In this case as well, the game ball that has entered the left start winning opening 28a (flowed between the pair of movable pieces 28b) passes through the left ball passage hole 196. In any case, when the winning detection signal by the left start winning opening switch 82 is processed effectively, a winning is generated at the left starting winning opening 28a, which corresponds to, for example, the second special symbol in game control. The operation memory is performed within the upper limit number (for example, 4). The main control CPU (not shown) also performs such game control.

  8 and 9 are exploded perspective views showing the configuration of the ball sorting apparatus 200 in more detail. Of these, FIG. 8 shows the ball sorting apparatus 200 from the diagonally upper front, and FIG. 9 shows the ball sorting apparatus 200 from the diagonally upper rear.

  As described above, the ball sorting apparatus 200 includes the front part 200a and the rear part 200b that constitute the apparatus main body, and these two parts 200a and 200b are disposed in the front-rear direction (Z axis in the figure) with the base member 192 interposed therebetween. Direction). When the entire winning device unit 190 is attached to the game board 8b (not shown in FIGS. 8 and 9), the base member 192 is installed so as to cover an opening (also not shown) formed in the game board 8b. The Further, most of the base member 192 is fitted into the opening. The base member 192 is a part that extends along the board surface in a state where it is attached to the game board 8b and decorates a part of the board surface.

  The rotating body 205 is disposed so as to be sandwiched between the front part 200a and the base member 192, and is rotatably supported by the front part 200a and the base member 192 via a support pin 205g. In the rotating body 205, for example, a link rod 205d is formed on one wing member 205c, and the link rod 205d protrudes toward the back surface side of the base member 192 along the rotation axis of the rotating body 205. In contrast, an insertion hole 200e is formed in the base member 192, and the link rod 205d is inserted into the insertion hole 200e in a state where the rotating body 205 is supported by the front part 200a and the base member 192. It has become.

  Further, the ball sorting apparatus 200 has a moderation mechanism for the rotating body 205, and the moderation mechanism is configured by combining the lever member 205e and the counterweight 205f in addition to the link rod 205d. The interior of the rear part 200b is divided into three chambers by two partition walls 200h, and parts constituting the moderation mechanism are accommodated between the two partition walls 200h.

  The lever member 205e is rotatably supported by the pin 205h, for example, on the same rotation axis as that of the rotating body 205 in a state where the lever member 205e is pin-connected to the base member 192 and the rear part 200b. At this time, the link rod 205d of the rotating body 205 protrudes to the back surface side through the insertion hole 200e, and is joined to one end (short arm) of the lever member 205e at the protruding end. In the other end portion (long arm) of the lever member 205e, a long hole (not shown) is formed along the longitudinal direction, and the free end of the counterweight 205f is slider-joined in the long hole. It has become. The counterweight 205f is also pin-bonded to the base member 192 and the rear part 200b, respectively, and is supported rotatably about the lower end pin 205k as an axis. As shown in FIG. 9, the back surface of the base member 192 is integrally formed with a boss portion (no reference numeral) into which the pin 205h and the lower end pin 205k are fitted.

  In the moderation mechanism described above, when the rotating body 205 rotates either clockwise or counterclockwise, and any of the wing members 205a and 205b comes into contact with the protrusions 206a and 206b, the rotation is restricted. Thus, moderation can be imparted to the rotating body 205 (posture can be maintained). Specifically, when the rotation of the rotating body 205 is restricted, the lever member 205e is inclined left or right. At this time, the counterweight 205f attempts to restore the lever member 205e to a neutral posture (upright posture). The movement is suppressed. Thereby, the rotating body 205 is held in the posture after the game balls 300 are distributed.

  Note that the holding of the posture of the rotating body 205 by the moderation mechanism is released when the load of the game ball 300 is applied to the wing members 205a and 205b that are not in contact with the protrusions 206a and 206b. That is, since the moderation mechanism does not hold the posture of the rotating body 205 until the load of the game ball 300 is resisted, the sorting operation is not hindered.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the interior of the rear part 200b is hollow. The rear part 200b is partitioned into three chambers by two partition walls 200h in the rear part 200b, so that two chambers located outside each partition wall 200h are formed as rectifying induction paths 208 and 209. The base member 192 is formed with two vertically long through holes 192a at positions facing the rectifying guide paths 208 and 209, respectively. When the rear part 200b is attached to the base member 192, the two through holes 192a overlap the opening edges of the rectifying guide paths 208 and 209 that face each other.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 9, a pair of inclined plates 201a is formed on the front part 200a so as to be opposed to the rectifying guide paths 208 and 209, respectively. When the front part 200a is combined with the base member 192, the tip portions of the inclined plates 201a are in a state of projecting into the rectifying guide paths 208 and 209 facing each other through the through holes 192a.

  Each inclined plate 201 a is formed to be connected to both left and right ends of the distribution guiding path 201. The distribution guiding path 201 is inclined downward from the central position toward the left and right ends, and a step is provided at each end. Each inclined plate 201a is inclined downward from the position one step lower than the left and right ends of the distribution guiding path 201 toward the back side of the base member 192 (rear side: Z-axis direction in the figure).

  Further, as shown in FIG. 9, corner ribs 201b are formed inside the front part 200a at the corners where the inclined plates 201a are connected to the left and right ends of the distribution guide path 201. . The corner rib 201b has an arc shape along the corner portion, and the arc surface can guide the direction change of the game ball.

[Game Ball Flow Mode]
FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a flow-down mode of game balls in the ball sorting apparatus 200. FIG. In FIG. 10, in order to prevent complication, illustration of components that are not shown on the appearance is omitted.

  10A: For example, when the wing member 205a of the rotating body 205 is in a posture in contact with the protrusion 206a, and the game ball flows into the ball sorting apparatus 200 through the inflow port 202 in this state, the rotating body 205 is in front. The game ball rotates in the clockwise direction as viewed, and the game ball is guided to the right of the sorting guide path 201 in the front view. Then, when the game ball rolls on the inclined plate 201a through the step from the right end of the distribution guide path 201, it is guided by the corner rib 201b and rolls in the heel direction of the game board 8. Then, the game ball enters the rectifying guide path 209 by the downward inclination of the inclined plate 201a, and makes a U-turn (reverse) along the axis (Z axis in the figure) orthogonal to the board surface, through the first discharge port 204. Released forward.

  In FIG. 10B: Alternatively, when the wing member 205b of the rotating body 205 is in contact with the protrusion 206b, and a game ball flows into the ball sorting apparatus 200 through the inlet 202 in this state, this time, the rotating body 205 Rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the front, and the game ball is guided to the left of the distribution guide path 201 when viewed from the front. Then, when the game ball rolls on the inclined plate 201a through the step from the left end of the sorting guide path 201, it is guided by the corner rib 201b and rolls in the heel direction of the game board 8. Then, the game ball enters the rectifying guide path 208 by the downward inclination of the inclined plate 201a, and makes a U-turn (reverse) along the axis perpendicular to the board surface (Z-axis in the figure). Released forward.

  In any of the above cases, the posture maintenance of the rotating body 205 by the moderation mechanism is released by the load of the game ball. Further, when the rotation of the rotating body 205 is restricted by distributing the game balls, the moderation mechanism works to maintain the posture of the rotating body 205.

  11 and 12 are diagrams for explaining the operation principle of the ball sorting apparatus 200. FIG. Of these, FIG. 11 shows a state where game balls are distributed in a manner that promotes the entry (winning) to the right start winning opening 26, and FIG. 12 shows the entering (winning) to the left start winning opening 28a. This shows a state where game balls are distributed in a manner that promotes the game.

[Distribution to the right start winning entrance 26]
In FIG. 11, (A): For example, in the initial state, it is assumed that the wing member 205a of the rotating body 205 is in contact with the left protrusion 206a. At this time, the posture maintenance by the moderation mechanism acts on the rotating body 205.

  When the game ball flows into the inflow port 202 in this state, the game ball enters between the wing member 205b and the wing member 205c in the rotator 205, the moderation mechanism is released by the weight of the game sphere, and the rotator 205 rotates clockwise. Rotate (clockwise).

  And as shown to (B) in FIG. 11, the rotating ball 205 rotates clockwise, and a game ball is guide | induced to the right direction of the distribution guide path 201. FIG. When the rolling direction is changed to the back side by the corner rib 201b when the game ball reaches the right inclined plate 201a, the game ball flows down to the right rectifying guide path 209 along the inclination of the inclined plate 201a. To do. Then, the game ball is guided by the rectifying guide path 209 to change its direction, and discharged from the first discharge port 204 to the front side. As a result, the game balls are distributed to the right start winning opening 26 side. At this time, the wing member 205b of the rotating body 205 comes into contact with the right protrusion 206b, whereby the rotation of the rotating body 205 is restricted. The posture of the rotating body 205 is held by the moderation mechanism until it receives the load of the next incoming game ball.

  More preferably, U-turn ribs 200f are formed in the rectifying guide paths 208 and 209, respectively, and the U-turn ribs 200f are located in regions extending from the top surface of the rectifying guide paths 208 and 209 to the inner wall surface and the bottom surface. Is formed. The U-turn rib 200f has a U-shape as a whole, and guides the smooth flow of the game ball along the curved arc surface.

  As described above, the first discharge port 204 is open toward the front surface, and the upper end (right start winning port) of the pair of stud members 198 on the right side from the lower end edge (the edge of the U-turn rib 200f) of the opening. The distance D to 26) may be set larger than the diameter of the game ball, for example, or may be set smaller than the diameter of the game ball. In any case, the game ball re-released from the first discharge port 204 to the game area 8a (not shown in FIG. 11) may enter the right start winning port 26 with random flow. In some cases, the stud member 198 may not be able to enter the right start winning opening 26. Further, the distance S between the lower surface at both ends of the front part 200a and the inclined upper surface of the stud member 198 is set larger than the diameter of the game ball. For this reason, depending on the state of the obstacle nail in the game area 8a, there is a game ball that enters the right start winning opening 26 from the periphery through the interval S without passing through the ball sorter 200.

[Distribution to the left start winning port 28a]
(A) in FIG. 12: Next, it is assumed that the wing member 205b of the rotating body 205 is in contact with the right protrusion 206b. At this time as well, posture maintenance by a moderation mechanism is acting on the rotating body 205.

  When the game ball flows into the inflow port 202 in this state, the game ball enters between the wing member 205a and the wing member 205c in the rotating body 205, the moderation mechanism is released by the weight of the game ball, and the rotating body 205 rotates counterclockwise. Rotate (counterclockwise).

  Then, as shown in FIG. 12B, the rotating body 205 rotates counterclockwise, whereby the game ball is guided in the left direction of the distribution guide path 201. When the rolling direction is changed to the back side by the corner rib 201b when the game ball reaches the left inclined plate 201a, the game ball flows down to the left rectifying guide path 208 along the inclination of the inclined plate 201a. To do. Then, the game ball is guided by the U-turn rib 200f in the rectifying guide path 208 to change its direction, and discharged from the second discharge port 203 to the front side. As a result, the game balls are distributed to the left start winning opening 28a. At this time, the wing member 205a of the rotator 205 comes into contact with the left protrusion 206a, whereby the rotation of the rotator 205 is restricted. The posture of the rotating body 205 is held by the moderation mechanism until it receives the load of the next incoming game ball.

  The second discharge port 203 is also open toward the front surface. From the lower end edge of this opening (the edge of the U-turn rib 200f) to the upper end of the pair of stud members 198 on the left side (the left start winning port 28a). The distance D may be set larger than the diameter of the game ball, or may be set smaller than the diameter of the game ball. In any case, the game ball re-released from the second discharge port 203 to the game area 8a (not shown in FIG. 12) may enter the left start winning port 28a with random flow. In some cases, the ball may be bounced by the stud member 198 and not enter the left start winning opening 28a. Similarly, since the distance S between the lower surface of both ends of the front part 200a and the inclined upper surface of the stud member 198 is set larger than the diameter of the game ball, depending on the state of the obstacle nail in the game area 8a. There is also a game ball that enters the left start winning opening 28a from the periphery through the interval S without passing through the ball sorter 200.

  FIG. 13 is a longitudinal sectional view (a sectional view taken along line XIII-XIII in FIG. 12) showing the internal structure of the ball sorting apparatus 200. Here, the left rectifying induction path 208 is taken as an example, but the structure of the right rectifying induction path 209 is the same.

  As described above, the game board 8b is formed with the opening 8c penetrating in the thickness direction, and the rear part 200b is entirely fitted in the opening 8c. For this reason, the rectifying guide path 208 extends from the board surface to the back side of the game board 8b (thick portion), and is bent downward at this position and then folded back to the front side of the board surface. FIG. 13 shows a side view shape of the U-turn rib 200f.

  The second discharge port 203 is opened at the same position as the board surface (backward by the thickness of the base member 192) when viewed in the front-rear direction (Z-axis direction in the figure), and the opening surface is parallel to the board surface. I understand.

[Rectifying action of game ball]
According to the ball sorter 200, the following guidance and rectification are performed for the flow of the game ball.
(1) First, game balls that have flowed in through the inflow port 202 are alternately distributed in the left or right direction along the board surface by the rotating body 205 and the distribution guide path 201.
(2) Next, at the left and right ends of the distribution guiding path 201, the rolling direction of the game ball to the back side along the axis (Z axis in the figure) perpendicular to the board surface by the corner rib 201b and the inclined plate 201a, respectively. Convert.
(3) In the left and right rectifying guide paths 208 and 209, the game ball is U-turned along its axis (Z-axis in the figure) at a heel position from the board surface. At this time, the game ball is flipped so as to sink into the bottom of the board.
(4) The U-turned game ball is discharged again into the game area 8a through the first discharge port 204 or the second discharge port 203 opened toward the front surface.

  Through the processes of (2) to (3), the flow-down mode of the game ball is adjusted from the horizontal direction to the vertical direction, and the momentum in the horizontal direction given in (1) above is killed (rectifying action). . As a result, the flow direction of the game ball released from the first discharge port 204 or the second discharge port 203 is almost stable downward and is less likely to be violated in the left-right direction. It is possible to make it easier to enter (win) the left start winning opening 28a with high frequency.

  Thereby, it is promoted that the winning at the right start winning opening 26 and the winning at the left starting winning opening 28a are alternately generated at a relatively high frequency due to the game ball flowing into the inflow port 202. Can do. However, the ball sorting apparatus 200 alternately promotes a random winning that can be generated at the right starting winning opening 26 and a random winning that can be generated at the variable starting winning apparatus 28 (left starting winning opening 28a). There is no way of performing the sorting operation in such a manner that the winnings are always made alternately.

  In other words, the release of the game ball from the first discharge port 204 by the ball sorting apparatus 200 is an operation that gives an opportunity to generate a random ball (win) at the right start winning port 26. Also, the release of the game ball from the second discharge port 203 by the ball distribution device 200 is an operation that gives an opportunity to generate a random ball (win) at the left start winning port 28a. The right start winning opening 26 and the left start winning opening 28a can randomly generate a winning (winning) from the game area 8a regardless of the distributing operation by the ball distributing apparatus 200. The occurrence of winning (winning) at the winning opening 26 may continue, or the occurrence of winning (winning) at the left start winning opening 28a may continue.

[Characteristics of ball sorter]
As described above, the ball sorting apparatus 200 does not necessarily generate a winning (winning) alternately with respect to the right starting winning opening 26 and the left starting winning opening 28a, but randomly generates a winning (winning). The opportunity to do is given alternately. Therefore, even if a game ball flows into the inflow port 202 of the ball sorting apparatus 200, it does not immediately correspond to a “winning ball” at that time, and the inflow port 202 does not correspond to a “winning port”.

  For this reason, in this embodiment, the right start winning opening 26 and the left starting winning opening 28a are “winning openings”, respectively, and even if the game ball wins the right start winning opening 26 via the ball distribution device 200. However, the random number for lottery corresponding to the first special symbol may be acquired not only by the flow into the ball sorting apparatus 200 but by the occurrence of the winning at the right start winning opening 26. Further, even when a game ball wins the left start winning opening 28a via the ball distributing apparatus 200, it is not inflowing into the ball distributing apparatus 200, but only to the left start winning opening 28a. A lottery random number corresponding to the second special symbol may be acquired as an opportunity.

  Thereby, there is no need to bother the right starting winning port switch 80 and the left starting winning port switch 82 for detecting a winning in the ball distributing device 200, and the structure of the ball distributing device 200 can be simplified.

[When the variable start winning device is activated]
FIG. 14 is a front view (A) and a partial sectional view (B) showing the state of the winning device unit 190 when the variable start winning device 28 is operated.

  In FIG. 14, (A): When the variable start winning device 28 is activated, the pair of movable pieces 28b are displaced to the open position as described above. In this case, from the left side of the winning device unit 190, it can be seen that the game ball easily flows from the game area 8a without passing through the ball sorting device 200. Even when the variable start winning device 28 is operated, if a game ball is released from the second discharge port 203 of the ball sorting device 200, the winning to the left start winning port 28a passes between the two stud members 198. Is possible.

  14B: Even when the game ball is released from the second discharge port 203 of the ball sorting apparatus 200, the game ball is bounced by the stud member 198 as described above, and the two stud members 198 Sometimes it does not flow in between. Even in this case, when the variable start winning device 28 is operated, the space between the tips of the pair of movable pieces 28b is widened as the left start winning port 28a. Therefore, it can be seen that a game ball that should not have been won if it is not in operation can be awarded to the left start winning port 28a when the variable start winning device 28 is activated.

  The above is the description using the winning device unit 190, but the winning device unit 190 causes the right ball passage hole 196 to correspond to the variable start winning device 28 by reversing the structure of the front side member 302 from the above. In addition, the left sphere passage hole 196 can be used in correspondence with the start winning opening. In this case, the explanation so far and the right and left are opposite. In other words, in the winning device unit 190 having a horizontally reversed structure, the variable starting winning device 28 is arranged on the right side, and accordingly, the right side becomes the right starting winning port 28a and the left side becomes the left starting winning port 26.

[Control configuration]
Next, a configuration related to control of the pachinko machine 1 will be described. FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing various electronic devices equipped in the pachinko machine 1. The pachinko machine 1 includes a main control device 70 (main control computer) that serves as the center of the control operation. The main control device 70 mainly has a function of controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. Yes. The main controller 70 is built in the main control board unit 170 described above.

  The main controller 70 is equipped with a circuit board (main control board) on which a main control CPU 72 as a central processing unit is mounted. The main control CPU 72 includes a ROM 74 and a RAM (RWM) together with a CPU core and registers (not shown). ) This is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as 76 are integrated. The main controller 70 is equipped with a random number generator 75 and a sampling circuit 77. Among them, the random number generator 75 generates hardware random numbers (for example, 0 to 65535 in decimal notation) for the jackpot determination corresponding to the special symbol and the hit determination corresponding to the normal symbol, and is generated here. The random number is input to the main control CPU 72 through the sampling circuit 77. In addition, the main controller 70 is equipped with peripheral ICs such as an input / output (I / O) port 79, a clock generation circuit (not shown), a counter / timer circuit (CTC), etc., and these are circuited together with the main control CPU 72. It is mounted on the board. A signal transmission path, a power supply path, a control bus, and the like are formed as wiring patterns on the circuit board (or the inner layer portion).

  The start gate 20 described above is integrally provided with a gate switch 78 for detecting the passage of a game ball. The game board unit 8 is provided with a right start winning port switch 80, a left start winning port switch 82 and a count switch 84 corresponding to the right start winning port 26, the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30, respectively. Yes. Each start winning port switch 80, 82 is for detecting a winning of a game ball to the right start winning port 26 and the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning port 28a). The count switch 84 is for detecting the winning of a game ball to the variable winning device 30 (large winning opening) and counting the number. Similarly, the game board unit 8 is equipped with a winning port switch 86 for detecting the winning of a game ball to the normal winning ports 22 and 24. Here, a configuration using a common winning opening switch 86 for both the normal winning openings 22 and 24 is given as an example, but two winning opening switches 86 are installed, and a game is provided for each of the normal winning openings 22 and 24. The winning of a ball may be detected.

  In any case, the winning detection signals of these switches 78 to 86 are input to the main control CPU 72 via an input / output driver (not shown). Due to the configuration of the game board unit 8, in this embodiment, the winning detection signals from the gate switch 78, the count switch 84 and the winning opening switch 86 are transmitted via the panel relay terminal plate 87, and are sent to the panel relay terminal plate 87. Are provided with wiring patterns and connection terminals for relaying the respective winning detection signals.

  The above-mentioned normal symbol display device 33, normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, first special symbol display device 34, second special symbol display device 35, first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a and game The state display device 38 is controlled in display operation based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72. The main control CPU 72 outputs control signals for the display devices 33, 34, 35, 38 and the lamps 33a, 34a, 35a according to the progress of the game, and controls the lighting state of each LED. The display devices 33, 34, 35, and 38 and the lamps 33a, 34a, and 35a are installed in the game board unit 8 in a state of being mounted on one integrated display board 89 as described above. A control signal is transmitted from the main control CPU 72 to the display substrate 89 through the panel relay terminal board 87.

  Further, the game board unit 8 is provided with a normal electric accessory solenoid 88 and a big prize opening solenoid 90 corresponding to the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30, respectively. These solenoids 88 and 90 are operated (excited) based on a control signal from the main control CPU 72 to open and close (activate) the variable start winning device 28 and the variable winning device 30 respectively. The solenoids 88 and 90 also transmit control signals from the main control CPU 72 through the panel relay terminal plate 87 described above.

  Although not specifically shown, the game board unit 8 is also provided with a magnetic sensor and a vibration sensor. Among these sensors, the magnetic sensor detects a magnetic flux flying to the game board unit 8 at the installation position, and A detection signal corresponding to the density (magnetic intensity) is output. The vibration sensor detects an acceleration (vibration) applied to the game board unit 8 at the installation position, and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the magnitude. The detection signals of these magnetic sensors and vibration sensors are input to the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72) through the panel relay terminal board 87, for example.

  In addition, a glass frame opening switch 91 is installed in the integrated door unit 4, and a plastic frame opening switch 93 is installed in the inner frame assembly 7. When the integrated door unit 4 is opened alone, a contact signal from the glass frame opening switch 91 is input to the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72), and when the inner frame assembly 7 is opened from the outer frame unit 2. The contact point signal from the plastic frame opening switch 93 is input to the main controller 70 (main control CPU 72). The main control CPU 72 can detect the open state of the integrated door unit 4 and the inner frame assembly 7 from these contact signals. When the main control CPU 72 detects the open state of the integrated door unit 4 or the inner frame assembly 7, the main control CPU 72 generates a door open information signal as the external information signal.

  On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a payout control device 92 is provided. The payout control device 92 (payout control computer) controls the operation of the payout device unit 172 described above. The payout control device 92 is equipped with a circuit board (payout control board) on which a payout control CPU 94 is mounted. The payout control CPU 94 is also an LSI in which a semiconductor memory such as a ROM 96 and a RAM 98 is integrated together with a CPU core (not shown). It is configured. The payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94) controls the operation of the payout device unit 172 based on the prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, and executes the payout operation of the requested number of game balls. The main control CPU 72 generates a prize ball information signal as the external information signal together with the prize ball instruction command.

  In a prize ball case (not shown) of the payout device unit 172, a payout device substrate 100 is installed together with a payout motor 102 (for example, a stepping motor). The payout device substrate 100 is provided with a drive circuit for the payout motor 102. Yes. The payout device substrate 100 specifically controls the rotation angle of the payout motor 102 based on the payout number instruction signal from the payout control device 92 (the payout control CPU 94), and pays out the designated number of game balls from the prize ball case. Let it come out. The paid-out game balls are sent to the tray unit 6 through the payout flow path in the flow path unit 173.

  Further, for example, a payout path ball cut switch 104 is installed at an upstream position of the prize ball case, and a payout counting switch 106 is installed at a downstream position of the payout motor 102. When a prize ball is actually paid out by driving the payout motor 102, a count signal from the payout count switch 106 is input to the payout device substrate 100 each time. Further, when a ball break occurs at an upstream position of the prize ball case, a contact signal from the payout path ball break switch 104 is input to the payout device substrate 100. The dispensing device substrate 100 transmits the input count signal and contact signal to the dispensing control device 92 (dispensing control CPU 94). The payout control CPU 94 can detect the actual payout number and the out-of-ball state based on the signal received from the payout device substrate 100.

  Further, the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a full switch 161, for example, inside the lower plate 6c (the position of the bowl as viewed from the front of the pachinko machine 1). The prize balls (game balls) that are actually paid out are discharged to the upper plate 6b through the flow path unit 173. When the upper plate 6b is full of game balls, As described above, it flows into the lower plate 6c. When the lower tray 6c is filled with game balls, the full tank switch 161 is turned ON, and a full tank detection signal is input to the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94). In response to this, even if the payout control CPU 94 receives a prize ball instruction command from the main control CPU 72, it temporarily suspends further prize ball operations, and stores the unpaid prize ball remaining number in the RAM 98. Note that the RAM 98 can be backed up even when the power is cut off, so that even if a power failure (including momentary power failure) occurs during the game, the information on the number of remaining unsold prize balls will not be lost. .

  On the back side of the pachinko machine 1, a firing solenoid 110 is installed together with the firing control board 108. In addition, a ball feeding solenoid 111 is provided in the tray unit 6. The launch control board 108, the launch solenoid 110, and the ball feed solenoid 111 constitute the launch control board set 174 described above, and the launch control board 108 is provided with drive circuits for the launch solenoid 110 and the ball feed solenoid 111. ing. Among these, the ball feed solenoid 111 performs an operation of sending out the game balls stored in the tray unit 6 one by one to a predetermined launch position in the launcher case. Moreover, the launch solenoid 110 hits the game ball sent to the launch position, and performs the operation of firing game balls one by one continuously (intermittently) toward the game area 8 as described above. The game ball is emitted at intervals of, for example, about 0.6 seconds (within 100 per minute).

  On the other hand, the handle unit 16 located on the front side of the pachinko machine 1 is provided with a firing lever volume 112, a touch sensor 114, and a firing stop switch 116. Among these, the firing lever volume 112 generates an analog signal proportional to the operation amount (so-called stroke) of the firing handle by the player. The touch sensor 114 detects that the player's body is touching the handle unit 16 (launching handle) from the change in capacitance, and outputs a detection signal. The firing stop switch 116 generates a firing stop signal (contact signal) in accordance with the player's operation.

  The above receiving tray unit 6 is provided with a launch relay terminal plate 118, and each signal from the launch lever volume 112, the touch sensor 114, and the launch stop switch 116 is sent via the launch relay terminal plate 118. Sent to. The drive signal from the launch control board 108 is applied to the ball feed solenoid 111 via the launch relay terminal board 118. When the player operates the firing handle, an analog signal (which may be an encoded digital signal) is generated by the firing lever volume 112 according to the operation amount, and the firing solenoid 110 is driven based on the signal at this time. Thereby, the strength of launching a game ball is adjusted according to the operation amount of the player. The drive circuit of the firing control board 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110 when the detection signal from the touch sensor 114 is off (low level) or when the firing stop signal is input from the firing stop switch 116. . In addition to this, the launch relay terminal plate 118 is connected with a lending device connection terminal plate 120 such as a game ball, and when the above-mentioned CR unit is not connected to this lending device connection terminal plate 120 such as a game ball, the launch is similarly performed. The drive circuit of the control board 108 stops driving the firing solenoid 110.

  The tray unit 6 includes a frequency display board 122 and a rental / return switch board 123. Of these, the frequency display board 122 is provided with the display of the frequency display unit (7-segment LED for 3 digits). The lending / return switch board 123 has switch modules connected to the ball lending button 10 and the return button 12, respectively. When the ball lending button 10 or the return button 12 is operated, the operation signal is lended and It is transmitted from the return switch board 123 to the CR unit via the game ball rental device connecting terminal board 120. Further, a frequency signal indicating the remaining frequency of the valuable medium is transmitted from the CR unit to the frequency display board 122 via the game ball lending device connection terminal board 120. A display circuit (not shown) on the frequency display board 122 drives the display unit based on the frequency signal, and displays the remaining frequency of the valuable medium as a numerical value. If no valuable medium is inserted in the CR unit or the remaining frequency of the inserted valuable medium becomes zero, the display circuit of the frequency display board 122 drives the display device to display a demonstration (of the valuable medium). (Display for prompting input) can also be performed.

  Further, the pachinko machine 1 includes an effect control device 124 (effect control computer) as a control configuration. The effect control device 124 controls the effect accompanying the progress of the game in the pachinko machine 1. The effect control device 124 is also equipped with a circuit board (composite sub-control board) on which an effect control CPU 126 that is a central processing unit is mounted. The effect control CPU 126 includes a CPU core (not shown) and a semiconductor memory such as a ROM 128 and a RAM 130 as a main memory. The production control device 124 is provided at a position covered by the back cover unit 178 on the back side of the pachinko machine 1.

  The effect control device 124 is equipped with an input / output driver (not shown) and various peripheral ICs, as well as a lamp driving circuit 132 and an acoustic driving circuit 134. The production control CPU 126 performs production control based on the production command transmitted from the main control CPU 72, gives a command to the lamp driving circuit 132 and the acoustic driving circuit 134, and various lamps 46, 48, 50, 52 and the board surface. Processing is performed to cause the lamp 53 to emit light or to actually output sound effects, voices, or the like from the speakers 54, 55, and 56.

  The effect control device 124 and the main control device 70 are connected to each other via, for example, a communication harness (not shown). However, the communication between these is performed only in one direction from the main control device 70 to the effect control device 124, and communication in the reverse direction is not performed. Note that the communication harness may adopt a parallel format according to the bus width of various commands transmitted from the main control device 70 to the effect control device 124, or each driver IC (I / O). A serial format may be adopted according to the hardware configuration.

  The lamp driving circuit 132 includes a switching element such as a PWM (pulse width modulation) IC or a MOSFET (not shown). The lamp driving circuit 132 switches driving voltages (or duty switching) applied to various lamps including LEDs. ) And manage the operation such as light emission and flashing. In addition to the glass frame top lamp 46 and the glass frame decoration lamps 48, 50, 52, the various lamps include a decoration / production board lamp 53 installed in the game board unit 8. The panel lamp 53 corresponds to an LED incorporated in the above-described effect unit, or an LED incorporated in the variable start winning device 28, the variable winning device 30, or the like.

  The acoustic drive circuit 134 is, for example, a sound generator that includes a sound ROM, an acoustic control IC, an amplifier, and the like (not shown). The acoustic drive circuit 134 drives the upper speaker 54 and the lower speaker 56 to perform acoustic output.

  In the present embodiment, a glass frame lighting board 136 is installed on the inner surface of the integrated door unit 4, and drive signals from the lamp driving circuit 132 and the acoustic driving circuit 134 pass through the glass frame lighting board 136 and various lamps 46. , 48, 50, 52 and speakers 54, 55, 56. Further, the effect switching button 45 is connected to the glass frame decoration board 136, and when the player pushes the effect switching button 45, the contact signal is transmitted to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame decoration board 136. Entered. Further, the jog dial 45a is connected to the glass frame decorating board 136. When the player rotates the jog dial 45a, the rotation angle signal is input to the effect control device 124 through the glass frame decorating board 136. .

  In addition, the panel board 138 is installed in the game board unit 8, and a drive signal from the lamp drive circuit 132 is applied to the panel lamp 53 via the panel board 138. In addition to the panel lamp 53, a decorative body motor 402 and a decorative body lamp 404 are connected to the panel illumination board 138. The decorative body motor 402 and the decorative body lamp 404 are installed on the back side of the game board unit 8. Has been. Among these, the decorative body motor 402 functions as a drive source for operating a decorative body (not illustrated) (for example, a model of a bird's wing or neck). The decorative body lamp 404 can decoratively emit a decorative body (not shown) by, for example, light emission of an LED. A drive control signal and a lighting control signal are input from the lamp drive circuit 132 to the decorative body motor 402 and the decorative body lamp 404, respectively.

  Further, a logo display lamp 190, a memory display lamp 192, and a memory display motor 196 are attached to the panel illumination board 138. The lamps 190 and 192 and the motor 196 are also installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the logo display body 40m and the memory display bodies 41a to 41h emit light and operate at the respective installation positions. The logo display lamp 190, the memory display lamp 192, and the memory display motor 196 are supplied with a lighting control signal and a drive control signal from the lamp driving circuit 132, respectively. In the present embodiment, the memory display motor 196 can operate the memory displays 41a to 41h via a gear transmission mechanism, a link mechanism or the like (not shown). The memory display bodies 41a to 41h having a rectangular parallelepiped shape change from a state in which the memory display body 41a on the left side to the memory display body 41h on the left side in the order of falling, for example, by driving the decorative body motor 402, or vice versa. From the right side memory display body 41h to the left side memory display body 41a, the state is changed from the state of rising up to the state of falling down, or all the memory display bodies 41a to 41h are in a state of falling down and the state of rising up. It is possible to perform a production operation such as changing alternately. The memory display lamp 192 can cause the memory displays 41a to 41h to individually emit light or change the color of the emitted light by, for example, LED light emission.

  The large rotating lamp 41 is also connected to the panel electric decoration board 138. The large rotating lamp 41 is provided with a light emitter (LED) and a motor as described above, but the illustration thereof is omitted here. A lighting control signal and a drive control signal are input to the light emitter and motor of the large rotating lamp 41 through the lamp drive circuit 132, respectively.

  The liquid crystal display 42 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the display screen through the substantially rectangular opening formed in the game board unit 8 is visible. Further, an inverter board 158 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the inverter board 158 generates an AC power source that is applied to a backlight (for example, a cold cathode tube) of the liquid crystal display 42. When an LED array is used for the backlight, an LED drive board (not shown) can be installed instead of the inverter board 158. Further, an effect display control device 144 is installed on the back side of the game board unit 8, and the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 is controlled by the effect display control device 144. The effect display control device 144 is equipped with a display control CPU 146 that is a general-purpose central processing unit and a circuit board (effect display control board) on which a VDP 152 that is a display processor is mounted. Among these, the display control CPU 146 is configured as an LSI in which semiconductor memories such as a ROM 148 and a RAM 150 are integrated together with a CPU core (not shown). The VDP 152 is configured as an LSI in which a semiconductor core such as an image ROM 154 and a VRAM 156 is integrated with a processor core (not shown). The VRAM 156 can use a part of the storage area as a frame buffer.

  The ROM 128 of the effect control CPU 126 stores a basic program related to effect control, and the effect control CPU 126 executes effect control according to this program. The production control includes production control using the various lamps 46, 48, 50, 52, the panel lamp 53, and the speakers 54, 55, 56 as described above, as well as image display using the liquid crystal display 42. Control of production by is included. The effect control CPU 126 transmits basic information (for example, effect number) related to the effect to the display control CPU 146, and the display control CPU 146 that receives the information transmits a specific effect image based on the basic information. Control the display.

  The display control CPU 146 outputs a more detailed control signal to the VDP 152. Receiving this, the VDP 152 accesses the image ROM 154 based on the control signal, reads necessary image data therefrom, and transfers it to the VRAM 156. Further, the VDP 152 expands the image data in the frame buffer for each frame (still image per unit time) on the VRAM 156, and individually handles each pixel (full color pixel) of the liquid crystal display 42 based on the buffered image data. To drive.

  In addition, a power control unit 162 (power control means) is provided on the back side of the inner frame assembly 7. The power supply control unit 162 has a built-in switching power supply circuit. When external power (for example, AC 24V) is taken from the island facility through the power cord 164, necessary power (for example, DC + 34V, + 12V) can be generated therefrom. The electric power generated by the power supply control unit 162 is distributed to the main control device 70, the payout control device 92, the effect control device 124, and the inverter board 158. Furthermore, power is supplied to the launch control board 108 via the payout control device 92, and power is supplied to the CR unit via the game ball rental device connection terminal board 120. The low voltage power for logic (for example, DC + 5V) is generated by a power supply IC (3-terminal regulator or the like) built in each device. Further, as described above, the power supply control unit 164 is grounded (grounded) to the island facility through the ground wire 166.

  The external terminal plate 160 is connected to the payout control device 92, and various external information signals generated by the main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) pass through the payout control device 92 to the external terminal plate 160. Is output to the outside. The main control device 70 (main control CPU 72) and the payout control device 92 (payout control CPU 94) can output an external information signal to the outside of the pachinko machine 1 through the external terminal board 160. The signals output from the external terminal board 160 are collected by, for example, a hall computer (not shown) in a game hall. Here, the configuration via the payout control device 92 is taken as an example, but a configuration in which an external information signal is directly output from the main control device 70 to the external terminal board 160 may be used.

  The above is a configuration example relating to the control of the pachinko machine 1. Next, control processing executed by the main control CPU 72 of the main control device 70 will be described.

[Reset start (main) processing]
When the pachinko machine 1 is powered on, the main control CPU 72 starts a reset start process. The reset start process restores the gaming state based on the backup information saved at the previous power shutdown (so-called power recovery) or conversely clears the backup information, thereby adjusting the initial state of the pachinko machine 1 Process. The reset start process is positioned as a main process (main control program) for guaranteeing a stable gaming operation of the pachinko machine 1 after adjusting the initial state.

  16 and 17 are flowcharts showing an example of the procedure of the reset start process. Hereinafter, the process performed by the main control CPU 72 will be described step by step.

  Step S101: First, the main control CPU 72 sets the top address of the stack area in the stack pointer.

  Step S102: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 sets the vector-type interrupt mode (mode 2) and corrects the default RST-type interrupt mode (mode 0). Thus, thereafter, the main control CPU 72 can refer to an arbitrary address (however, the least significant bit is 0) as an interrupt vector and execute a designated interrupt handler.

  Step S103: The main control CPU 72 executes a standby process at reset. This process is for securing a certain standby time (for example, about several thousand ms) at the time of reset start (for example, power-on) and checking the main power-off detection signal during that time. Specifically, when the main control CPU 72 sets the loop counter for the waiting time, the main control CPU 72 bit-checks the input port of the main power-off detection signal while decrementing the value of the loop counter. The main power-off detection signal is input from, for example, a power monitoring IC that is a peripheral device. If the input of the main power-off detection signal is confirmed before the loop counter reaches 0, the main control CPU 72 restarts the process from the beginning. As a result, for example, the system can be protected when a main power switch (not shown) is turned on and off repeatedly within a short time (about 1 to 2 seconds).

  Step S104: Next, the main control CPU 72 permits access to the work area of the RAM 76. Specifically, the RAM protect setting value in the work area is reset (00H). As a result, thereafter, access to the work area of the RAM 76 is permitted.

  Step S105: Also, the main control CPU 72 performs initial setting of a mask register in order to set an interrupt mask. Specifically, a value for enabling the CTC interrupt is stored in the mask register.

  Step S106: The main control CPU 72 refers to the input signal from the previously cleared RAM clear switch and confirms whether or not the RAM clear switch has been operated (switch ON). If the RAM clear switch is not operated (No), step S107 is executed next.

  Step S107: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not backup information is stored in the RAM 76, that is, whether or not a backup validity determination flag is set. If the backup is normally completed in the previous power-off process and the backup validity determination flag (for example, “A55AH”) is set (Yes), then the main control CPU 72 executes step S108.

  Step S108: The main control CPU 72 executes a sum check on the backup information in the RAM 76. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 sum-checks all areas of the work area of the RAM 76 (a user work area including a use-prohibited area and a stack area) except the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer. If the result of the sum check is normal (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S109.

Step S109: The main control CPU 72 resets the backup validity determination flag (for example, “0000H”).
Step S110: The main control CPU 72 clears the command waiting for transmission immediately before the occurrence of the previous power interruption.

  Step S111: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect control return process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 instructs the effect control device 124 to return a command (for example, a model designation command, a special symbol probability state designation command, a special symbol-specific prefetch information command, a variation pattern prefetch information command, an increase in the number of working memories. A production command, a production command when the number of working memories decreases, a remaining count counter command, a special game state designation command, etc.) are transmitted. In response to this, the effect control device 124 performs the effect state that was being executed at the time of the previous power shutdown (for example, the effect state corresponding to the time reduction state, the effect state corresponding to the internal probability state, the display mode of the effect symbol, and the operation It is possible to restore the production display mode of the stored number, the sound output content, the light emission state of various lamps, and the like.

  Step S112: The main control CPU 72 executes state return processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets various values in the work area of the RAM 76 based on the backup information, and the gaming state (for example, the display state of special symbols, the internal probability state, Fluctuation time shortening function operation / non-operation state, jackpot gaming state / non-hit gaming state, operation memory content, various flag states, random number update state, etc.) are restored. The main control CPU 72 restores the backed up PC register value.

  On the other hand, when the RAM clear switch is operated at power-on (step S106: Yes), when the backup validity determination flag is not set (step S107: No), or when the backup information is not normal. (Step S108: No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to Step S113.

Step S113: The main control CPU 72 clears the stored contents other than the use prohibited area of the RAM 76. As a result, the work area and stack area of the RAM 76 are all initialized, and even if valid backup information is stored, the contents are erased.
Step S114: The main control CPU 72 performs initial setting of the RAM 76.

  Step S115: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs a command (command necessary for effect control) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124 after the initial setting.

  Step S116: The main control CPU 72 executes a payout control output process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs an instruction command for starting the payout of prize balls to the payout control device 92.

  Step S117: The main control CPU 72 executes CTC initial setting processing, and performs initial setting of a CTC (counter / timer circuit) that is a peripheral device. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets an interrupt vector register and sets an interrupt count value (for example, 4 ms) in the CTC. As a result, when a CTC interrupt occurs next time, the main control CPU 72 can continue the processing from the program address of the PC register that has been backed up.

  When the above procedure is executed in the reset start process, the main control CPU 72 shifts to the main loop shown in FIG. 17 (connection symbol A → A).

  Step S118, Step S119: The main control CPU 72 executes the power interruption occurrence check process after prohibiting interruption. In this process, the main control CPU 72 performs bit check on the input port of the main power-off detection signal and monitors the occurrence of power-off (decrease in drive voltage). When the power is cut off, the main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffer corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88, the big prize opening solenoid 90, etc., and the entire area excluding the backup validity judgment flag and the sum check buffer in the work area of the RAM 76. Is backed up, and the sum result value is stored in the sum check buffer. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the valid value (for example, “A55AH”) in the backup validity determination flag area, prohibits access to the RAM 76, and stops (NOP) the process. On the other hand, if the power shutoff does not occur, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S120. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU executes the process at the time of the occurrence of power interruption as a non-maskable interrupt (NMI) process.

  Step S120: The main control CPU 72 executes an initial value update random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 increments random numbers for updating (changing) initial values of various software random numbers. In the present embodiment, various random numbers (for example, a winning symbol random number, a jackpot symbol random number, a reach group) excluding a jackpot determining random number (hardware random number) corresponding to a special symbol and a hit determining random number (hardware random number) corresponding to a normal symbol. (Determined random number, reach mode determined random number, variation pattern determined random number, etc.) are generated on the program. These software random numbers are updated by a loop counter within a predetermined range in another interrupt process (step S201 in FIG. 19). In this process, the initial value of the loop counter (all The random number of may not be the target). The initial value updating random number is used to randomly change the initial value, and in step S120, the initial value updating random number is updated. Note that the reason why step S120 is executed after the interruption is prohibited in step S118 is the same as another interruption management process (step S202 in FIG. 19). ) To prevent the above). As described above, in this embodiment, the big hit determination random number is a hardware random number generated by the random number generator 75, and its update cycle is faster (eg, several μs) than the timer interrupt cycle (eg, several ms). Therefore, it is not necessary to update the initial value of the jackpot determination random number.

  Step S121, Step S122: The main control CPU 72 permits the interrupt and executes other random number update processing. The random numbers updated by this processing are random numbers (reach determination random numbers, variation pattern determination random numbers, etc.) that are not related to the determination of the winning type (winning type) among software random numbers. This process is performed in the remaining time when a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the main loop and the main control CPU 72 executes another interrupt management process (FIG. 19). The contents of the interrupt management process will be described later.

[Power failure check processing]
FIG. 18 is a flowchart specifically illustrating a procedure example of the power-off occurrence check process.
Step S130: First, the main control CPU 72 sets a condition for checking the occurrence of power interruption. This check condition can be set as an on-counter value for confirming that the main power-off detection signal is continuously output, for example.

  Step S132: Next, the main control CPU 72 reads the main power-off detection switch input port and confirms whether or not the main power-off detection signal is output (checks a specific bit). Although not particularly illustrated, the main power-off detection switch is mounted on the main controller 70, for example, and this main power-off detection switch monitors the drive voltage supplied from the power control unit 162, and the voltage level is monitored. When the voltage falls below the reference voltage, the main power-off detection signal is output. Note that the main power-off detection switch may be built in the power control unit 162. When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the main power-off detection signal is not output at this time (No), the main control CPU 72 exits this process and returns to the reset start process. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the main power-off detection signal is output (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S134.

  Step S134: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the above check conditions are satisfied. Specifically, for example, 1 is subtracted from the on-counter value set in the previous step S130, and it is confirmed whether or not the result is 0. If the on-counter value is not yet 0 at this time (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to step S132 and reconfirms the main power-off detection switch input port. When the check condition is satisfied by repeating the loop from step S134 to step S132 (step S134: Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S136.

  Step S136: The main control CPU 72 clears the output port buffer corresponding to the test signal terminal and the command control signal in addition to the output port corresponding to the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 and the big prize opening solenoid 90 as described above.

Step S138, Step S140: Next, the main control CPU 72 adds the entire contents excluding the backup validity determination flag and the sum check buffer in the work area of the RAM 76 in units of 1 byte, and repeats until the addition is completed for all areas. .
Step S142: When the calculation of the sum is completed for all the areas (Step S140: Yes), the main control CPU 72 stores the sum result value in the sum check buffer.

Step S144: Next, the main control CPU 72 stores the valid value in the backup validity determination flag area as described above.
Step S146: The main control CPU 72 stores “01H” indicating access prohibition in the protect value of the RAM 76, and prohibits access to the work area (including the use prohibition area and the stack area) of the RAM 76.
Step S148: Then, the main control CPU 72 enters a standby loop and stops all other processes in preparation for shutting off the main power supply. After the main power is cut off, the backup power is supplied from a backup power circuit (not shown) (for example, a circuit including a capacitive element mounted on the main controller 70). Held without. The backup power supply circuit may be incorporated in the power supply control unit 162, for example.

  Through the above processing, all the information stored in the work area of the RAM 76 to be backed up (sum added) is retained in the RAM 76 even after the main power is turned off. The stored memory is restored as backup information when the power is turned off after confirming that the checksum is normal in the previous reset start process (FIG. 16).

[Interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing)]
Next, interrupt management processing (timer interrupt processing) will be described. FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary procedure of interrupt management processing. The main control CPU 72 executes an interrupt management process every predetermined time (for example, several ms) based on the interrupt request signal from the counter / timer circuit. Each procedure will be described below.

  Step S200: First, the main control CPU 72 saves the values of the registers (accumulator A, flag register F, and general-purpose registers B to L) used during execution of the main loop in the save area of the RAM 76. Another value can be written in the registers (A to L) after the value is saved in the interrupt management process.

  Step S201: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a lottery random number update process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 updates the value of the counter for generating various random numbers for lottery. The value of each counter is incremented in the counter area of the RAM 76 and loops within a specified range. The various random numbers include, for example, jackpot symbol random numbers, normal symbol random numbers determined, and the like.

  Step S202: The main control CPU 72 executes the initial value update random number update process also here. The content of the process is the same as described above.

  Step S203: The main control CPU 72 executes input processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 inputs various switch signals from an input / output (I / O) port 79. Specifically, an input state (ON / OFF) of a passage detection signal from the gate switch 78 and a winning detection signal from the right starting winning port switch 80, left starting winning port switch 82, count switch 84, and winning port switch 86. Lead.

  Step S204: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes switch input event processing. In this process, among the switch signals input in the previous input process, the determination of an event occurring during the game is made based on the winning detection signals from the gate switch 78, the right start winning port switch 80, and the left starting winning port switch 82. Depending on the event that occurred, further processing is executed. The specific contents of the switch input event process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  In this embodiment, when a winning detection signal (ON) is input from the right start winning port switch 80 or the left starting winning port switch 82, the main control CPU 72 performs internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol, respectively. It is determined that an event that triggers the event (lottery opportunity) has occurred. When the passage detection signal (ON) is input from the gate switch 78, the main control CPU 72 determines that an event serving as a lottery trigger corresponding to the normal symbol has occurred. If it is determined that any event has occurred, the main control CPU 72 executes a process corresponding to each event. The processing executed when a winning detection signal is input from the right start winning port switch 80 or the left starting winning port switch 82 will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S205, Step S206: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol game process and a normal symbol game process during the interrupt management process. These processes are for specifically proceeding with the game in the pachinko machine 1. Of these, in the special symbol game process (step S205), the main control CPU 72 controls the execution of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol described above, or the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 34. (2) The variable display and stop display by the special symbol display device 35 are controlled, and the operation of the variable winning device 30 is controlled according to the display result. Details of the special symbol game process will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  In the normal symbol game process (step S206), the main control CPU 72 controls the variable display and stop display by the normal symbol display device 33 described above, and controls the operation of the variable start winning device 28 according to the display result. To do. For example, the main control CPU 72 stores a random number (ordinary random number per symbol) acquired in response to the passage of the start gate 20 in the previous switch input event processing (step S204). The random number value is read out from the memory, and it is determined whether or not it falls within a predetermined hit range (operation lottery execution means). When the random number value falls within the hit range, the normal symbol display device 33 displays the normal symbol in a variable manner, and after stopping the normal symbol in a predetermined hit state, the main control CPU 72 switches the normal electric accessory solenoid 88 on. Excitingly activates the variable start winning device 28 (movable piece actuating means). On the other hand, if the random number value is out of the hit range, the main control CPU 72 performs a normal symbol stop display in a manner of deviation after the variable display.

  Step S207: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes prize ball payout processing. In this process, based on the winning detection signals input from the various switches 80, 82, 84, 86 in the previous input process (step S203), a prize ball instruction command for instructing the payout control device 92 the number of prize balls is issued. Output.

  Step S208: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes external information processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sends the above-mentioned external information signals (for example, prize ball information, door opening information, symbol determination number information, jackpot information, start port information, etc.) to the hall computer of the game hall through the external terminal board 160. Store in port output request buffer.

  In the present embodiment, among various external information signals, for example, “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” are output to the outside as jackpot information, so that an external electronic device (data display device) connected to the pachinko machine 1 is output. Can provide various jackpot information (external information signal output means). In other words, the jackpot information is divided into a plurality of “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” and output, so that the type of jackpot (winning type) from these combinations can be tabulated and managed by a hall computer (not shown) or internal Recognize changes in the probability state (low probability state or high probability state) or shortened state of symbol variation time, or generate a small hit (a hit where the condition device does not work) that is not classified as a “big hit” even if it is not winning Can be aggregated and managed. Based on the jackpot information, for example, a data display device (not shown) counts and displays the number of jackpot occurrences within the past several business days for each pachinko machine 1, and recognizes whether or not each jackpot is currently jackpot. Or for each table, it can be recognized whether or not the current symbol variation time is in a shortened state. In this external information processing, the main control CPU 72 controls each output state (set of ON or OFF) of “big hit 1” to “big hit 5” in detail.

  Step S209: The main control CPU 72 executes test signal processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates various test signals representing its internal state (for example, normal symbol game management state, special symbol game management state, jackpot, probability variation function in operation, time reduction function in operation). These are stored in the port output request buffer. With this test signal, for example, the internal state of the main control CPU 72 can be tested outside the main controller 70.

  Step S210: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes display output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 performs the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol display device 34, the second special symbol display device 35, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol. The lighting state of the operation memory lamp 35a, the game state display device 38, etc. is controlled. Specifically, the drive signal stored in the port output request buffer is output to the port in the previous special symbol game process (step S205) or the normal symbol game process (step S206). The drive signal is stored in the port output request buffer as byte data to be applied to each LED. As a result, each LED is driven in a predetermined display mode (a mode of performing symbol variation display, stop display, working memory number display, game state display, etc.).

  Step S211: The main control CPU 72 executes output management processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 outputs the external information signal (byte data) stored in the port output request buffer in the previous external information processing (step S208). Further, the main control CPU 72 outputs the drive signals, test signals, and the like of the ordinary electric accessory solenoid 88 and the special prize opening solenoid 90 stored in the port output request buffer together.

  Step S212: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect control output process. In this processing, it is confirmed whether or not there is a command (command necessary for presentation control) that the main control CPU 72 should transmit to the presentation control device 124 in the command buffer. Output port.

  Step S213: The main control CPU 72 clears the port output request buffer stored by the current CTC interrupt.

  In the present embodiment, an example is given in which the processing (game control program module) of steps S205 to S212 is executed as a timer interrupt processing. However, these processings are executed by being incorporated in the main loop of the CPU. There is also a programming example.

  Step S214: When the above processing is completed, the main control CPU 72 stores a value (01H) for designating the end of interrupt in the interrupt program counter, and ends the CTC interrupt.

  Step S215, Step S216: Then, the main control CPU 72 restores the saved values of the registers (A to L) and permits the next CTC interrupt. Thereafter, the main control CPU 72 returns to the main loop (program address indicated by the stack pointer).

[Switch input event processing]
FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the switch input event process (step S204 in FIG. 19). Each procedure will be described below.

  Step S10: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input (a first event occurs) from the right start winning port switch 80 corresponding to the first special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S12 and executes the first special symbol memory update process. Specific processing contents will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, when no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S14.

  Step S14: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input (second event occurs) from the left start winning port switch 82 corresponding to the second special symbol. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S16 and executes the second special symbol memory update process. Here again, the details of the specific processing will be further described later using another flowchart. On the other hand, if there is no input of a winning detection signal (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S18.

  Step S18: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not a winning detection signal is input from the count switch 84 corresponding to the big winning opening. When the input of the winning detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S20 and executes a large winning mouth count process. In the big winning opening counting process, the main control CPU 72 counts the number of winning balls to the variable winning device 30 every round during the big hit game. On the other hand, if no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S22.

  Step S22: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not a passage detection signal is input from the gate switch 78 corresponding to the normal symbol. When the input of the passage detection signal is confirmed (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S24 and executes the normal symbol memory update process. In the normal symbol memory update process, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current number of normal symbol working memories is less than the upper limit number (for example, 4), and if it does not reach the upper limit number, obtains a random number per normal symbol To do. Further, the main control CPU 72 increments the normal symbol operating memory number by one. Then, the main control CPU 72 stores the acquired random value per normal symbol in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. On the other hand, if no winning detection signal is input (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the interrupt management process (FIG. 19).

[First special symbol memory update process]
FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the first special symbol memory update process (step S12 in FIG. 20). Hereinafter, the procedure of the first special symbol memory update process will be described in order.

  Step S30: First, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the first special symbol working memory number counter to check whether or not the working memory number is less than the maximum value (for example, 4). The working memory number counter represents the number (the number of sets) of big hit determination random numbers and big hit symbol random numbers stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. That is, the random number storage area of the RAM 76 is divided into four sections (for example, 2 bytes each) for each symbol (first special symbol, second special symbol), and each section contains a big hit decision random number and a big hit symbol random number. Each can be stored as a set. At this time, if the value of the working memory number counter corresponding to the first special symbol has reached the maximum value (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 20). On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter is less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S31.

  Step S31: The main control CPU 72 adds one first special symbol working memory number. The first special symbol operation memory number counter is stored, for example, in the operation memory number area of the RAM 76, and the main control CPU 72 increments (+1) the value. Based on the counter value added here, the lighting state of the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a is controlled by the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 19).

  Step S32: The main control CPU 72 acquires the jackpot determination random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (acquisition of lottery elements, element storage means). The random value is acquired by specifying the pin address of the random number generator 75. In the case where the main control CPU 72 performs 8-bit processing, the address designation is performed twice for each upper byte and lower byte. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot determination random number value from the designated address, the main control CPU 72 saves it at the transfer destination address as a jackpot determination random number corresponding to the first special symbol.

  Step S33: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the first special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The acquisition of the random number value is also performed by designating the address of the jackpot symbol random number counter area. When the main control CPU 72 reads the jackpot symbol random number value from the designated address, the main control CPU 72 saves it at the transfer destination address as a jackpot symbol random number corresponding to the first special symbol.

  Step S34: The main control CPU 72 sequentially obtains a reach group determination random number, a reach mode determination random number, and a variation pattern determination random number from the random number counter area for variation in the RAM 76 as random number values related to the variation condition of the first special symbol ( Fluctuation pattern determination element acquisition, element storage means). Similarly, these random number values are acquired by designating the address of the random number counter area for variation. When the main control CPU 72 acquires the reach group determination random number, the reach mode determination random number, and the variation pattern determination random number from the designated address, the main control CPU 72 saves them in the transfer destination address.

  Step S35: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot decision random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach group decision random number, reach mode decision random number and variation pattern decision random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the first special symbol, and these random numbers. Are stored as a set in a free section in the area (processing as element storage means). The order (for example, first to fourth) is set in the plurality of sections. If all the first to fourth sections are empty at this stage, the random numbers are stored in order from the first section. Alternatively, if the first section is already filled and the other second to fourth sections are empty, the random numbers are stored in order from the second section. Note that the random number storage area is read out in a FIFO (First In First Out) format.

  Step S36: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game management state (internal state) is a big hit. If it is not a big hit (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following step S37. If it is a big hit (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips step S37 and proceeds to step S38. This determination is made in the present embodiment because basically the pre-reading effect is not performed during the big hit, but the operation memory generated during the big hit may be the target of the pre-reading notice effect.

  Step S37: When the current game management state (internal state) is other than the big hit (step S36: No), the main control CPU 72 executes an effect determination process at the time of acquisition for the first special symbol. In this process, the result of the internal lottery is determined in advance (before the start of fluctuation) based on the jackpot determination random number and the jackpot symbol random number of the first special symbol respectively acquired in the previous steps S32 and S33, and also acquired in step S34. By determining the variation pattern information in advance based on the random numbers for variation, the content of the effect is determined in advance (so-called “prefetching”). In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates various prefetch information commands. The specific processing contents will be described later with reference to another flowchart.

  Step S38: After returning from the acquisition effect determination process, the main control CPU 72 next sets an effect command for increasing the number of working memories for the first special symbol. Specifically, for the preceding value (for example, “BAH”) representing the command type, the number of working memories after the increase (for example, “01H” to “04H”) is added to the lower byte to be a one-word length A production command is generated. At this time, for the lower byte, the second place is set to “0” by default to indicate that the value is “result (change information) due to increase in number of working memories”. That is, if the lower byte is “01H”, it indicates that the current working memory number has become “01H” as a result of increasing by one from the previous working memory number “00H”. Similarly, if the lower byte is “02H” to “04H”, it is increased by one from the previous working memory numbers “01H” to “03H”, so that the current working memory number is “02H” to “02H”. 04H ". The preceding value “BAH” is a value indicating that the current production command is an operation memory number command for the first special symbol.

  Step S39: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output setting process for the first special symbol. This processing includes the effect command at the time of special figure destination determination generated at the previous step S37 (special figure-specific pre-read information command, variation pattern pre-read information command), the effect command at the time of increase of the working memory generated at step S38, and the start port. This is for transmitting a winning sound control command or the like to the effect control device 124 (memory number notifying means).

  When the above procedure is finished or the first special symbol operation memory number has reached 4 (step S30: No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 20).

[Second special symbol memory update process]
Next, FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the second special symbol memory update process (step S16 in FIG. 20). Hereinafter, the procedure of the second special symbol memory update process will be described in order.

  Step S40: The main control CPU 72 refers to the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter to check whether or not the working memory number is less than the maximum value. Similarly to the above, the second special symbol actuated memory number counter represents the number (number of sets) of jackpot determination random numbers and jackpot symbol random numbers stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76. At this time, if the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter reaches the maximum value (for example, 4) (No), the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event processing (FIG. 20). On the other hand, if the value of the second special symbol operation memory number counter is still less than the maximum value (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to the next step S41 and thereafter.

  Step S41: The main control CPU 72 increments the second special symbol working memory number by one (increments the value of the second special symbol working memory number counter). Similarly to the previous step S31 (FIG. 21), the lighting state of the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a is controlled by the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 19) based on the counter value added here. Will be.

  Step S42: The main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot determination random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the random number generator 75 through the sampling circuit 77 (acquisition of lottery elements, element storage means). The method for acquiring the random number value is the same as step S32 (FIG. 21) described above.

  Step S43: Next, the main control CPU 72 acquires a jackpot symbol random number value corresponding to the second special symbol from the jackpot symbol random number counter area of the RAM 76. The method for acquiring the random value is the same as that in step S33 (FIG. 21) described above.

  Step S44: Further, the main control CPU 72 sequentially acquires the reach group determination random number, the reach mode determination random number and the variation pattern determination random number regarding the variation condition of the second special symbol from the variation random number counter area of the RAM 76 (the variation pattern determination element). Acquisition of element storage means). The acquisition of these random values is also performed in the same manner as step S34 (FIG. 21) described above.

  Step S45: The main control CPU 72 transfers the saved jackpot decision random number, jackpot symbol random number, reach group decision random number, reach mode decision random number and variation pattern decision random number to the random number storage area corresponding to the second special symbol, and these random numbers. Are stored as a set in a free section in the area (processing as element storage means). The storage method is the same as step S35 (FIG. 21) described above.

  Step S45a: Next, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game management state (internal state) is a big hit. If it is not a big hit (No), the main control CPU 72 executes the following step S46. Conversely, if it is a big hit (Yes), the main control CPU 72 skips step S46 and proceeds to step S48. The reason why this determination is made in the present embodiment is that the pre-reading effect is not performed during the big hit.

  Step S46: When it is other than big hit (step S45a: No), next, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect determination process at the time of acquisition for the second special symbol. This process also determines the result of the internal lottery in advance (before the start of fluctuation) based on the second special symbol jackpot determination random number and the jackpot symbol random number obtained in the previous steps S42 and S43, and in step S44. By determining the variation pattern information in advance based on the acquired variation random numbers, the content of the effect is determined in advance. Here again, the main control CPU 72 generates various prefetch information commands. The specific processing contents will be described later.

  Step S48: After returning from the acquisition effect determination process, the main control CPU 72 next sets an effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories regarding the second special symbol. Here, a one-word-length production command in which the number of working memories after the increase (for example, “01H” to “04H”) is added to the lower byte with respect to the preceding value (for example, “BBH”) of the upper byte representing the command type Is generated. Similarly, for the second special symbol, the second place of the lower byte is set to “0” by default to indicate that the value is “a result of an increase in the number of working memories (change information)”. it can. The preceding value “BBH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is an operation memory number command for the second special symbol.

  Step S49: The main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output setting process for the second special symbol. As a result, with respect to the second special symbol, an effect control device such as an effect command at the time of determination of the special symbol destination (special symbol-specific pre-reading information command, variation pattern pre-reading information command), an effect command when the number of operating memories increases, a start opening winning sound control command, 24 is prepared for transmission (memory number notifying means). When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the switch input event process (FIG. 20).

[Acquisition process during acquisition]
FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of the effect determination process at the time of acquisition. The main control CPU 72 executes this acquisition effect determination process in the first special symbol memory update process and the second special symbol memory update process (step S37 in FIG. 21 and step S46 in FIG. 22) (preliminary determination). means). As described above, this processing is executed for each of the first special symbol (when winning the right start winning opening 26) and the second special symbol (when winning the variable start winning device 28). Therefore, the following description may correspond to a process related to the first special symbol and a process related to the second special symbol. Hereinafter, the contents of the processing will be described along each procedure.

  Step S50: First, the main control CPU 72 loads a jackpot determination random number as a random number value for the previous determination. The random numbers to be loaded here are those stored in the RAM 76 in the first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 21) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 22). .

  Step S52: The main control CPU 72 executes a hit confirmation process using the loaded random number. Here, a range of hit values is set for each probability state (low probability state or high probability state), and it is determined whether or not the loaded jackpot determination random number is within the range of hit values. When the winning is confirmed here, the main control CPU 72 sets the winning offset (for example, “1”) as a return value. On the other hand, if the winning is not confirmed, the main control CPU 72 sets a non-winning offset (for example, “0”) as a return value. The “offset for winning” and “offset for non-winning” are values indicating whether the determination result of the winning confirmation process (step S52) is “winning” or “non-winning”.

  Step S54: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot symbol random number as the random number value for the first determination. The random number to be loaded here is a jackpot symbol for each symbol stored in the RAM 76 in the first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 21) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 22). It is a random number.

  Step S56: The main control CPU 72 executes symbol confirmation processing. This process is for determining the jackpot type (winning type) for each of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the jackpot symbol random number paired with the jackpot determined random number. For example, the main control CPU 72 loads the jackpot symbol random number for each symbol stored in the first special symbol memory update process (step S35 in FIG. 21) or the second special symbol memory update process (step S45 in FIG. 22). Then, a comparison is made with the comparison value stored in the symbol type determination table (not shown in particular), and from the result, whether the jackpot type corresponds to “non-probable (normal) symbol” or “probable symbol” Further, it is determined whether the symbol corresponds to “7-round symbol” or “16-round symbol”. Then, the main control CPU 72 sets the symbol confirmation offset to a return value based on the determination result. The above processing is performed when the winning offset is set as a return value in the hit confirmation processing in step S52. When the main control CPU 72 sets the non-winning offset in step S52 as a return value, in the current symbol confirmation process, for example, a non-winning symbol confirmation offset can be set as a return value. The “symbol confirmation offset” used here is a value representing “what the winning symbol corresponds to” or “not applicable to the winning symbol (non-winning)” as the determination result performed in the symbol confirmation process (step S56). is there.

  Step S57: The main control CPU 72 generates a special symbol-specific symbol prefetch information command based on the symbol confirmation offset which is a return value. This command represents the result of pre-reading “out of symbol” or “hit symbol type” for each of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. The special symbol-specific symbol prefetch information command generated here is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 19).

  Step S58: After executing the procedure so far, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the previous determination result in the hit confirmation process (step S52) is true. This confirmation can be performed using the symbol confirmation offset of the return value set immediately before. In other words, if the symbol confirmation offset is a value representing “out-of-order symbol” (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S60, and conversely if the symbol confirmation offset is a value representing any “big hit symbol type” ( Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S68. In either case, the main control CPU 72 generates a prefetch information command related to the variation pattern in the subsequent procedure. First, the procedure at the time of disconnection will be described.

[Procedure for generating a change pattern prefetch information command at the time of loss]
Step S60: The main control CPU 72 sets a reach group selection table for each state and each number of working memories. The reach group selection table is a table for performing random drawing of the variation pattern using the reach group determination random number among the three random numbers (reach group determination random number, reach mode determination random number, and variation pattern determination random number) related to the determination of the variation pattern. is there. A configuration example of the reach group selection table will be described later with reference to another drawing.

Step S62: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the stored reach group determination random number from the RAM 76.
Step S64: The main control CPU 72 executes the first variation pattern determination process. In this process, as described above, the variation pattern category lottery (reach type lottery) is performed using the reach group determination random number, and the selected offset is set as a return value. The details of the specific process will be described later together with a configuration example of the reach group selection table.

  Step S66: The main control CPU 72 generates a variation pattern prefetch information command using the selected offset value. The command generated here is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 19).

[Procedure for generating variation pattern look-ahead information command for hits]
The above procedure is a procedure when the result of the pre-reading hit confirmation is out of place, but when the hit is confirmed by pre-reading (step S58: Yes), a variation pattern pre-reading information command is generated by the following procedure.

  Step S68: In this case, the main control CPU 72 selects an offset that has been fixed in advance for hitting, and sets this as a return value. Therefore, it is not particularly necessary to perform category lottery here.

  Step S66: The main control CPU 72 generates a variation pattern prefetch information command fixed in advance using the selected fixed offset value for hitting time. In this way, since the offset is always fixed at the time of hitting, the variation pattern prefetch information command can be of one type. The command generated here is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 19). The “fixed offset for hitting time” is a value indicating that the determination result of the previous hit checking process (step S52) was “winning”.

  When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the first special symbol memory update process (FIG. 21) or the second special symbol memory update process (FIG. 22).

[Reach group selection table by state and working memory count]
FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a reach group selection table at the time of divergence by state and number of working memories. In the ROM 76 of the main control CPU 72, for example, a plurality of selection tables are stored in advance for each internal state and each operation memory number. In step S60 of the effect determination process at the time of acquisition, the main control CPU 72 stores the current internal state and operation memory. Set the reach group selection table that suits the number of conditions. The internal state condition includes, for example, a low probability non-short state, a low probability short state, a high probability non-short state, or a high probability short state, and the working memory number condition includes, for example, the first special symbol. Or, there is a distinction of 0 to 1, 2, 3, etc. for each second special symbol, or a distinction of 0-4, 5, 6, 7, etc. as the total working memory number of both. Note that the table shown in FIG. 24 assumes a normal state (low probability non-short state) and 0 to 1 working memories.

  The “out of reach reach group selection table” in FIG. 24 has a structure in which, for example, a “comparison value” and an “offset value” are set and stored one byte at a time in order from the start address. Here, the “comparison value” includes eight different values “124”, “174”, “374”, “546”, “616”, “761”, “961”, “999 (0FFFH), for example. ”And reach mode selection offsets“ 06 ”,“ 10 ”,“ 02 ”,“ 06 ”,“ 10 ”,“ 02 ”,“ offset values ”for each“ comparison value ”, “11” and “12” are assigned.

  The main control CPU 72 compares the loaded reach group determined random numbers with the above “comparison value” in order, and if the random number value is equal to or smaller than the comparison value, selects the offset value corresponding to the comparison value. For example, if the reach group determination random number at that time is “190”, the value of the random number exceeds the comparison value compared to the first comparison value “124”, so the main control CPU 72 determines the next comparison value “ 174 "and the value of the random number are compared. Again, since the value of the random number exceeds the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 further compares the value of the random number with the next comparison value “374”. In this case, since the value of the random number is equal to or smaller than the comparison value, the main control CPU 72 selects the corresponding reach mode selection offset “02”. Alternatively, if the reach group determination random number is “979”, the main control CPU 72 has compared to the third comparison value “961” from the bottom, and then exceeded the next comparison value “961”. The reach mode selection offset “12” corresponding to the comparison value “999 (0FFFH)” is selected.

  The offset value selected here specifies the conditions for selection of the variation pattern table for each reach mode using the reach mode determination random number in the next stage in the actual variation start processing (displacement variation pattern determination processing). is there. In the actual processing, the variation pattern determination lottery using the variation pattern determination random number at the final stage is specified through the reach mode variation pattern table selection lottery. In the actual processing, the variation pattern number is selected at the actual variation start (at the variation) from the result of the variation pattern determination lottery at the final stage.

  In addition, in the effect determination process at the time of acquisition (FIG. 23) of this embodiment, the lower byte (EVENT value) of the variation pattern prefetch information command is set only by the reach mode selection offset obtained in the initial selection lottery. Yes. In other words, at the start of actual variation, the final variation pattern number is uniquely determined using all of the reach group determination random number, reach mode determination random number and variation pattern determination random number obtained at the time of winning a prize. In the form of “look-ahead”, there is a unique advantage in that the variation pattern look-ahead information command is determined using only the reach group determination random number. More specific description will be given below.

[Change pattern look-ahead information command selection table]
FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a variation pattern prefetch information command selection table. (A) in FIG. 25 shows a table applied when the result of prefetching is lost, and (B) in FIG. 25 shows a table applied when the result of prefetching is hit.

[Change pattern look-ahead information command at the time of loss]
(A) in FIG. 25: The left column in the table indicates reach mode selection offsets “00” to “12” selected using reach group determined random numbers. The two columns on the right side of the table indicate the values of the variation pattern prefetch information command corresponding to each offset value. Among these, the central column indicates the common “BEH” that is the upper byte (MODE value) of the command, and the rightmost column indicates the lower byte (EVENT value) of the command. That is, the change pattern prefetch information command is described in a word format in which the upper byte is the MODE value (common “BEH”) and the EVENT value (undefined value) of the lower byte is combined therewith.

  If the value of the reach mode selection offset is either “00” or “01” as shown in the upper two rows excluding the heading row in the table (the same applies thereafter), the corresponding variation pattern prefetching is performed. The lower byte of the information command is “00H”. If the value of the reach mode selection offset is any one of “02” to “04”, the lower byte of the corresponding variation pattern prefetch information command is “02H”. Similarly, for each of the reach mode selection offset values “05” to “12”, the lower byte of the corresponding variation pattern prefetch information command is “00H”, “01H”, “03H”, “04H”. Either one is selected.

[Hit fluctuation pattern look-ahead information command]
(B) in FIG. 25: The variation pattern prefetching information command at the time of hit is fixed as described above. In other words, when winning is confirmed in the acquisition effect determination process (FIG. 23), the main control CPU 72 selects “99” as the fixed reach mode selection offset for winning (step S68 in FIG. 23). In this case, the lower byte of the corresponding variation pattern prefetch information command in the table is always fixed and is “7EH”. The upper byte is common to “BEH”.

[Reach type correspondence table by command]
FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a reach type correspondence table for each command. This correspondence table indicates the reach type (variation pattern information) corresponding to the variation pattern prefetch information command generated in the acquisition effect determination process (FIG. 23).

  The left two columns in the table indicate “BEH00H” to “BEH04H” and “BEH7EH (fixed value)” of the variation pattern prefetch information commands. The right column in the table indicates the reach type corresponding to each command.

[Reach type]
Here, “non-reach”, “normal reach”, “weak super reach”, “strong super reach”, and “story reach” of the reach types shown in the table of FIG. 26 are generic names of the following categories, respectively. It shall be.

(1) “Non-reach”
“Non-reach” as the reach type means that a variation pattern (usually a shift variation pattern) that does not perform reach variation with the variation is selected. In this case, the variation pattern selected in the actual process (the variation pattern determination process at the time of loss) is always “non-reach”, and a relatively short variation time (for example, about 2 to 13 seconds) is selected. .

(2) “Normal reach system”
“Normal reach system” as the reach type means that a reach variation is performed in the variation, but a variation pattern designating a variation effect pattern belonging to “normal reach” is selected in the effect control. In this case, the variation pattern selected in the actual process (the variation pattern determination process at the time of loss) is always “reach variation”, but a relatively short variation time (for example, about 20 to 30 seconds) is selected. It will be.

(3) "Weak super reach system"
“Weak super reach system” as the reach type means that a change pattern is selected that performs a reach change by the change and specifies a change production pattern belonging to “weak super reach” in the production control. Yes. In this case as well, the variation pattern selected in the actual process (the variation pattern determination process at the time of loss) is always the “reach variation”, and a relatively medium variation time (for example, about 50 to 60 seconds). ) Will be selected.

(4) “Strong super reach system”
“Strong super reach system” as the reach type means that a variation pattern that specifies a variation effect pattern belonging to “strong super reach” on the effect control is selected while performing the reach variation with the variation. Yes. In this case as well, the variation pattern selected in the actual process (the variation pattern determination process at the time of loss) is always “reach variation”, and a relatively long variation time (for example, about 100 seconds to 120 seconds) is selected. Will be.

(5) "Story reach system"
“Story reach type” as the reach type means that a change in reach is performed based on the change, and a change pattern that specifies a change effect pattern belonging to “story reach” is selected in the effect control. In this case, the variation pattern selected in the actual process (the variation pattern determination process at the time of disconnection) is always “reach variation”, and among these, the variation time (for example, 150 seconds to About 200 seconds) is selected.

(6) “Fluctuation per hit”
Note that “win fluctuation” as the reach type means that win fluctuation is performed by the fluctuation. In this case, the variation pattern selected in the actual processing (big hit hour variation pattern determination processing) is “big hit hour reach variation”. In addition, since the result of “winning” is more important than what kind of production is designated at the time of winning, only a simple result of “winning fluctuation” is transmitted to the production control device 124. Yes.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the pre-reading information command is generated using only the reach group determination random number among the various random numbers for variation in the effect determination process at the time of acquisition (FIG. 23), and this is sent to the effect control device 124. Sending. In this case, the transmitted variation pattern prefetch information command does not completely specify the unique variation pattern number (specific total variation time) selected by the variation, but the variation is “non-reach” or It can be seen that basic information indicating which one is “reach”, and in the case of “reach”, type information indicating which reach type is clearly indicated. In addition, when the previous determination result is a win, it clearly indicates “win fluctuation”. Therefore, it is possible to sufficiently execute the pre-determination effect using the above-described variation pattern prefetch information command in the effect control process by the effect control device 124 while reducing the processing load of the main control CPU 72.

  Further, if the previous determination result is a win, it is a fixed command and the subsequent processing is omitted. Thereby, the processing load by the main control CPU 72 can be further reduced. In addition, since a fixed command indicating “hit fluctuation” is transmitted at the time of hitting, it is possible to execute a predetermination effect corresponding to the hitting time correctly in the effect control. Details of the effect control process will be described later.

[Special design game processing]
Next, the details of the special symbol game process executed in the interrupt management process (FIG. 19) will be described. FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the special symbol game process. The special symbol game process includes an execution selection process (step S1000), a special symbol change pre-process (step S2000), a special symbol change process (step S3000), a special symbol stop display process (step S4000), and a variable winning device management process. This is a configuration including a subroutine (program module) group of (Step S5000). First, the basic flow of the special symbol game process will be described along each process.

  Step S1000: In the execution selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S2000 to S5000) from the “jump table”. For example, the main control CPU 72 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the special symbol game process as the return destination address in the stack pointer.

  Which process is selected as the next jump destination differs depending on the progress of the process performed so far (special symbol game management status). For example, if the special symbol has not yet started changing display (special symbol game management status: 00H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation pre-processing (step S2000) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the special symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed (special symbol game management status: 01H), the main control CPU 72 selects the special symbol variation processing (step S3000) as the next jump destination, and the special symbol variation is in progress. If the process has been completed (special symbol game management status: 02H), the special symbol stop displaying process (step S4000) is selected as the next jump destination. In this embodiment, the jump destination address is specified by the “jump table” and the process is selected. However, apart from such a selection method, a “process flag”, a “process selection flag”, or the like is used. There is also a known programming example in which the CPU selects a process to be executed next. In such a programming example, the CPU CALLs each process in a single way, and at the top step, the conditional branch (continuation / return) is performed by referring to the flag one by one. However, in the selection method of this embodiment, the main control is performed. There is no need for the CPU 72 to call each process one by one.

  Step S2000: In the special symbol variation pre-processing, the main control CPU 72 performs an operation to prepare conditions for starting the variation display of the special symbol. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S3000: In the special symbol variation processing, the main control CPU 72 performs drive control of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 while counting the variation timer. Specifically, an ON or OFF drive signal (1 byte data) is output for each segment and dot (0th to 7th) of the 7-segment LED. The pattern of the drive signal changes with the passage of time, whereby a special symbol is displayed in a variable manner.

  Step S4000: In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the drive of the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Similarly, an ON or OFF drive signal is output for each segment and dot of the 7-segment LED. However, the pattern of the drive signal is constant, whereby a special symbol is stopped and displayed.

  Step S5000: The variable winning device management process is selected when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the winning mode (a mode other than non-winning) in the previous special symbol stop display process. For example, when a special symbol is stopped and displayed in a 16-round big hit mode, an opportunity to shift from a normal state until then to a big hit gaming state (a special gaming state advantageous to the player) occurs. During the big hit game, the jump destination is set in the variable winning device management process in the previous execution selection process (step S1000), and the special symbol variation display is not performed. In the variable winning device management process, the large winning opening solenoid 90 is excited for a predetermined time (for example, 29 seconds or until nine winnings are counted) for a predetermined number of continuous operations (for example, 7 times, 16 times), As a result, the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed in a predetermined pattern (continuous operation of the special electric accessory). In the meantime, by allowing the variable winning device 30 to win the game balls intensively, the player is given an opportunity to collect a lot of prize balls (special game execution means). Note that the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 at the time of the big win is referred to as “round”, and if the total number of continuous operations is 16 times, these may be collectively referred to as “16 rounds”. The round operation of the variable winning device 30 is that a predetermined opening time (for example, about 29 seconds) elapses in the open state, or a prescribed number of winnings (for example, winning of eight game balls) occurs during the opening. Then, it returns to the closed state and ends. In the present embodiment, not only 16 round big hits but also multiple types of 7 round big hits are provided as the types of big hits. In addition, for the 16 round big hit and the 7 round big hit, a plurality of winning types (winning symbols) are provided therein.

  Further, when the main control CPU 72 sets the large winning opening opening pattern (number of rounds, number of opening / closing operations per round, opening time, etc.) in the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 performs the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 for one round. Each time it is finished, the value of the round number counter is incremented by one. The value of the round number counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a round number command representing the value of the round number counter. The round number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 19). When the value of the round number counter reaches the set number of continuous operations, the main control CPU 72 ends the big hit game (big player) only for that round.

  When the big hit game ends, the main control CPU 72 changes the state after the big hit game (high probability state, time reduction state) based on the game state flag (probability variation function operation flag, time reduction function operation flag). In the “high probability state”, the probability variation function is activated, and the winning probability in the internal lottery becomes, for example, about ten times higher than usual (specific game state transition means, high probability state transition means, high probability state setting means). In the “time reduction state”, the time reduction function is activated, and the normal symbol operation lottery has a high probability as described above, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened, and the opening time of the variable start winning device 28 is extended. As a result, the number of times of opening increases (so-called electric Chu support is performed). Note that the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state” may be transferred to only one of them in terms of control, or may be transferred in accordance with both of them.

[Multiple winning types]
In the present embodiment, for the above-mentioned “16 round jackpot”, for example, (1) “16 round probability variable jackpot” and (2) “16 round normal (non-probability) jackpot” are provided as a plurality of winning types (this) There may be more). In addition to “16 round big hits”, in this embodiment, (3) “7 rounds probable big hits” and (4) “7 round normal (non-probable big hits)” are provided as a plurality of winning types (more than this May be).

  The winning type corresponds to the type of the first special symbol or the second special symbol that is stopped and displayed at the time of winning. For example, “16 round probability variation jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “16 round probability variation symbol”, and “16 round normal jackpot” corresponds to the jackpot of “16 round regular symbol”. “7 round probability variation big hit” corresponds to the big hit of “7 round probability variation big deal”, and “7 round normal big hit” corresponds to the big hit of “7 round normal variation big hit”. Therefore, hereinafter, the “winning type” will be appropriately referred to as “winning symbol”.

[16 rounds of normal symbols (usually winning types)]
First, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “16 round normal symbol” mode in the special symbol stop display processing described above, an opportunity to shift from the normal state to the big hit gaming state occurs (special game execution). means). In this case, the special winning opening is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the first round, and this continues until the 16th round. For this reason, the “16-round normal symbol” jackpot game gives 16 rounds of award (prize balls) to the player. Note that when a predetermined number of times (for example, 9 times = 9 game balls) is generated within one round, the special winning opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. In this case, since the “probability changing function” is not activated, the privilege to shift to the “high probability state” is not given to the player. However, even if the “time reduction function” is inactive in the previous game, by operating the “time reduction function” after the end of the big hit game, there is a privilege to shift to the “variable time reduction state”. It is given to the player.

[16 round probability variation (specific winning types)]
Alternatively, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the “16 round probability variation symbol” mode in the previous special symbol stop display process, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state occurs (special game executing means) ). In this case, the special winning opening is opened once each over a sufficiently long time (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds) from the first round, and this continues until the 16th round. Each of these “16-round probable symbols” jackpot games also gives the player 16 balls (prize balls) for 16 rounds. Further, when a predetermined number of times (for example, 9 times = 9 game balls) is generated within one round, the big winning opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. Then, for example, by operating the “probability changing function” after the big hit game is finished, a privilege to shift to the “high probability state” is given to the player as a result. Also, in this case, even if the “time reduction function” is inactive in the previous game, by operating the “time reduction function” after the big hit game is finished, the “variable time reduction state” is also achieved. A privilege to be transferred is given to the player.

[7 round normal design]
In the above special symbol stop display process, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of “7 round normal symbol”, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state occurs (special game executing means). . In this case, the winning opening is opened once for a sufficiently long time from the first round (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds), and this continues until the seventh round. For this reason, in the “7 round normal symbol” jackpot game, 7 rounds of winning balls (prize balls) are given to the player. Note that when a predetermined number of times (for example, 9 times = 9 game balls) is generated within one round, the special winning opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. In this case, since the “probability changing function” is not activated, the privilege to shift to the “high probability state” is not given to the player. In addition, regarding the “seven round normal symbol”, even after the end of the big hit game, the “time reduction function” is not activated, and the privilege to shift to the “variable time reduction state” is not given to the player.

[7 rounds probable design]
Alternatively, when the special symbol is stopped and displayed in the form of “7 round probability variation symbol” in the previous special symbol stop display processing, an opportunity to shift from the normal state until then to the big hit gaming state occurs (special game executing means) ). In this case, the winning opening is opened once for a sufficiently long time from the first round (for example, a maximum opening time of 29.0 seconds), and this continues until the seventh round. Each of these “7-round probable symbols” jackpot games also gives the player 7 balls (prize balls) for 7 rounds. Further, when a predetermined number of times (for example, 9 times = 9 game balls) is generated within one round, the big winning opening is closed without waiting for the longest opening time to elapse. Then, for example, by operating the “probability changing function” after the big hit game is finished, a privilege to shift to the “high probability state” is given to the player as a result. In addition, regarding the “7-round probabilistic symbols”, the player may be given a privilege to activate the “time reduction function” after the jackpot game ends and shift to the “variable time reduction state”. There may be a case where the “time reduction function” is not activated later and the transition to the “variable time reduction state” is not made. Details of these distributions will be described later.

  In any case, if the winning symbol falls under either of the above “16-round probability variation symbol” or “7-round probability variation symbol”, the player is given a privilege to shift the internal state to the “high probability state” after the big hit game ends. Is granted. In addition, if the internal lottery is won in the “high probability state” and the winning symbol at that time corresponds to either “16 round probability variation symbol” or “7 round probability variation symbol”, the “high probability state” will be maintained even after the jackpot game ends. Is continued (resumed). On the other hand, if the internal lottery is won in the “high probability state” and falls into either of the above “16 round normal symbol” or “7 round normal symbol”, the internal state will be the normal probability state (low probability state) after the big hit game ends. Return to). Needless to say, if the internal lottery is won in the normal probability state and falls into either “16 round normal symbol” or “7 round normal symbol”, the internal state is maintained in the normal probability state even after the big hit game ends.

[Small hits]
In the present embodiment, small wins are provided as winning types other than non-winning. When winning a small winning game, a small winning game is performed separately from the big winning game, and the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed. That is, if the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in the small hit state in the previous special symbol stop display processing, the game (variable winning a prize) in the normal probability state or the high probability state. A game in which the device 30 operates) is executed. In such a small win game, the variable winning device 30 opens and closes a predetermined number of times (for example, twice), but hardly wins a big winning opening. In addition, even if the small hit game ends, the “probability change function” does not operate, and the “time reduction function” does not operate, so it goes to the “high probability state” or “time reduction state”. The privilege to be transferred is not granted (it is not a prerequisite for that). Also, even if you win a small hit in the “high probability state”, the “high probability state” will not end after the game of that small hit, and even if you win a small hit in the “time reduction state” The “time reduction state” does not end after the end of the small hit game (except when the upper limit is reached). In the present embodiment, the game specification for setting a small hit is used, but it may be a game specification for not setting a small hit.

[Special symbol change pre-treatment]
FIG. 28 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special symbol variation pre-processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S2100: First, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the first special symbol working memory number or the second special symbol working memory number remains (greater than 0). This confirmation can be made with reference to the value of the working memory number counter stored in the RAM 76. When the number of working memories of both the first special symbol and the second special symbol is 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 executes a demonstration setting process in step S2500.

  Step S2500: In this process, the main control CPU 72 generates a demonstration effect command. The demonstration effect command is output to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 19). When the demo setting process is executed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. When returning, it returns to the end address as described above (and so on).

  On the other hand, if the value of the working memory number counter of either the first special symbol or the second special symbol is greater than 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2200.

  Step S2200: The main control CPU 72 executes a special symbol storage area shift process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 preferentially reads out the lottery random numbers (big hit determination random number, big hit symbol random number) stored in the random number storage area of the RAM 76, which corresponds to the second special symbol. At this time, if random numbers are stored in two or more sections, the main control CPU 72 reads and erases (consumes) the random numbers in order from the first section, and then moves (shifts) the remaining random numbers one by one to the previous section. ) The read random number is stored, for example, in another temporary storage area. When the random number corresponding to the second special symbol is not stored, the main control CPU 72 reads the random number corresponding to the first special symbol and stores it in the temporary storage area. Each random number stored in the temporary storage area is used for internal lottery in the next jackpot determination process. As a result, in the present embodiment, the variable display of the second special symbol is preferentially performed over the first special symbol. In addition, the program which reads a random number in the order memorize | stored simply may be sufficient, without providing the priority order according to such special symbols. Further, in this process, the main control CPU 72 subtracts one value of the working memory number counter (the one of the first special symbol or the second special symbol which has been subjected to the random number shift) stored in the RAM 76, and after the subtraction Is set to “Number of working memories at start of change”. Thereby, the display mode of the number stored by the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a or the second special symbol operation memory lamp 35a changes (decreases by 1) in the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 19). . When the procedure so far is finished, the main control CPU 72 then executes step S2300.

  Step S2300: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit determination process (internal lottery). In this process, the main control CPU 72 first sets a range of the big hit value and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (lottery execution means). The range of the jackpot value set at this time is different between the normal probability state and the high probability state (when the probability variation function is activated). In the high probability state, the range of the jackpot value is expanded to about 10 times that of the normal probability state. The If the random value read at this time is included in the range of the big hit value, the main control CPU 72 sets the big hit flag (01H), and then proceeds to step S2400.

  When the above big hit flag is not set, the main control CPU 72 sets the range of the small hit value next in the same big hit determination process, and determines whether or not the read random number value is included in this range (lottery execution). means). The “small hit” here is other than non-winning (out of), but is different from “big hit”. That is, “big hit” generates an opportunity (game milestone) to shift to the above “high probability state” or “time reduction state”, but “small hit” does not generate such an opportunity. However, “small hit” is positioned as satisfying the condition for operating the variable winning device 30 as in the case of “big hit”. The range of the small hit value set at this time may be different between the normal probability state and the high probability state (when the probability variation function is activated), or may be the same. In any case, if the read random number value is included in the range of the small hit value, the main control CPU 72 sets the small hit flag, and then proceeds to step S2400. As described above, in the present embodiment, as the hit range corresponding to other than the non-winning, the range of the big hit value and the small hit value is defined in advance in the program. Each of them may be written in the ROM 74, read out, and the big hit determination may be performed while comparing with the random value.

  Step S2400: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) is set for the big hit flag in the previous big hit determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the jackpot flag (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2402.

  Step S2402: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not a value (01H) is set in the small hit flag in the previous big hit determination process. If the value (01H) is not set in the small hit flag (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S2404. The main control CPU 72 may determine the big hit (for example, 01H is set) or the small hit (for example, 0AH is set) according to the value of the common hit flag without separately preparing the big hit flag and the small hit flag.

  Step S2404: The main control CPU 72 executes an off-time stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 sets stop symbol number data at the time of disconnection by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35. Further, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of loss) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. These commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 19).

  In this embodiment, since the 7-segment LED is used for the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35, for example, the display mode of the stop symbol at the time of disconnection is always set to one segment (the central bar). It is possible to fix the stop symbol number data to one value (for example, 64H) by keeping only the “−”) lighting display. In this case, the storage capacity used in the program can be reduced, the processing load on the main control CPU 72 can be reduced, and the processing speed can be improved. Alternatively, when the first special symbol display device 34 and the second special symbol display device 35 are arranged in the form of a plurality of dot LEDs, the display mode of the stop symbol at the time of detachment may be a lighting display of one specific dot LED. .

  Step S2405: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a deviation variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the fluctuation pattern number at the time of deviation for the special symbol (fluctuation pattern selection means). The variation pattern number is used to distinguish the variation display type (pattern) of the special symbol or to correspond to the variation time required for the variation display. Since the fluctuation time at the time of loss differs depending on whether or not it is the above “time reduction state”, in this process, the main control CPU 72 loads the gaming state flag and the current state is “time reduction state”. Check if it exists. In the “time shortening state”, except for the case where reach variation is basically performed, the variation time at the time of disconnection is set to a shortened time (shortening variation time determination means). Even if the state is not “time shortening state”, the fluctuation time at the time of losing is, for example, the “variable display start operation memory number (for example, 0 to 3 or the total operation) set in step S2200, except when the reach fluctuation is performed. The number may be shortened based on “0-4, 5, 6, 7, etc.”. Note that the symbol stop display time at the time of disconnection is constant (for example, about 0.5 seconds) regardless of the variation pattern. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined variation time (the number of variation seconds at the time of disconnection) in the variation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time at the time of disconnection in the stop symbol display timer.

  In the present embodiment, when the result of the internal lottery is a non-winning result, for example, a “reach effect” is generated and the control is performed so that the “reach effect” is not generated. It is said. The “variation pattern selection table at the time of loss” preliminarily defines variation patterns corresponding to a plurality of types of effects such as “non-reach effect” and “reach effect”. One of the fluctuation patterns is selected from the inside. Reach production includes reach production classified as “normal reach” as described above, reach production classified as “weak super reach” or “strong super reach”, and “story reach”. Various reach effects such as reach effects classified into

[Change pattern determination process at the time of loss]
FIG. 29 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the above-described variation pattern determination process at the time of loss. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S2450: First, the main control CPU 72 sets a reach group selection table for each state and each number of working memories. This content is the same as the above-described acquisition effect determination process (step S60 in FIG. 23). Therefore, the main control CPU 72 sets the reach group selection table corresponding to the current conditions according to the internal state and the number of operating memories.

  Step S2452: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads a reach group determination random number among the various random numbers for variation shifted in the previous special symbol storage area shift process (step S2200 in FIG. 28). The object to be loaded here has the same value as the acquisition effect determination process (step S62 in FIG. 23).

  Step S2454: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes the first fluctuation pattern determination process. In this process, a variation pattern category lottery (reach type lottery) is performed using the loaded reach group determination random number, and the selected offset is set as a return value. The content of the process here is the same as the above-described acquisition effect determination process (step S64 in FIG. 23), and the detachment reach group selection table (FIG. 24) similar to the above is used for the category lottery. Accordingly, the reach mode selection offset is set to the return value here.

  Step S2456: The main control CPU 72 sets a reach mode selection table using the reach mode selection offset which is the previous return value. The procedure from here is different from the effect determination process at the time of acquisition (FIG. 23). The reach mode selection table set here is used for selection lottery using the reach mode determination random number as an argument in the next stage.

Step S2458: In order to perform the selection lottery, the main control CPU 72 loads a reach mode determination random number.
Step S2460: The main control CPU 72 executes the second variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects a corresponding variable mode offset from the reach mode selection table based on the reach mode determination random number, and sets the result as a return value. The variation mode offset selected here designates the address of the variation pattern selection table used in the final variation pattern determination lottery.

  Step S2462: Therefore, next, the main control CPU 72 sets the variation pattern selection table using the variation mode offset which is a return value. Specifically, the table address indicated by the value of the variation mode offset is designated on the ROM 74 as described above.

Step S2464: When the table address is designated, the main control CPU 72 loads the variation pattern determination random number which is the last random number.
Step S2466: The main control CPU 72 executes the third variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects a corresponding variation pattern number from the variation pattern selection table based on the variation pattern determination random number. The main control CPU 72 sets the selected variation pattern number as a return value. The variation pattern number selected here is the unique variation pattern that is finally performed in the variation (variation mode from the start of the change to the occurrence of the notice, the time from the start of the tempe, the reach mode, the reach variation time, and the final stop display. ), And the total fluctuation time (fluctuation seconds) in the fluctuation is uniquely determined from the fluctuation pattern number.

  Step S2468: Finally, the main control CPU 72 generates a variation pattern command from the variation pattern number selected as the return value. The generated variation pattern command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process (step S212 in FIG. 19). Then, the effect control device 124 can grasp the change pattern information of the change from the received change pattern command or select the change effect pattern.

  Here, when it is intended to instruct specific variation pattern number information using the variation pattern prefetch information command, the maximum procedure shown in FIG. 29 (steps S2450, S2452, S2454, S2456, S2458, S2460, S2462, S2464). , S2466) must be executed as prefetch control. Specifically, since the prefetch control is not completed at the stage of execution up to step S2454, all procedures are executed up to the subsequent step S2466, and a variation pattern prefetch information command is generated using the variation pattern number of the return value obtained there. There is a need to.

  On the other hand, in the prefetch control (the effect determination process at the time of acquisition (FIG. 23)) in the present embodiment, the variation pattern prefetch information command is issued only by the minimum procedure in FIG. 29 (program configuration equivalent to steps S2450, S2452, and S2454). Is generated. In this case, from the variation pattern prefetch information command (for example, “BEH02H”), the specific variation pattern number of the variation is not clear, but the reach type of the variation is clear as described above. It is necessary and sufficient content. As a result, the processing load on the main control CPU 72 can be greatly reduced, and the program capacity can be reduced accordingly. Further, even when the prefetch control (production determination process at the time of acquisition) and the actual variation pattern determination process are executed within the same one interrupt time (for example, 4 ms), the prefetch control can be completed with the minimum procedure, so the process with one interrupt is performed. It will be possible to afford time.

[Configuration example of variation pattern selection table]
FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a variation pattern selection table. In FIG. 30, (A) to (K) show the tables specified by the variable mode offset values “00” to “10” separately for each address. In each table, the range of the variation pattern determination random number is shown in the left column, and the variation pattern number corresponding to the right column is shown.

  For example, when the main control CPU 72 has set the variation mode offset “00” as a return value, in the third variation pattern determination process, the main control CPU 72 designates the table address shown in FIG. In this case, the main control CPU 72 selects “special 0” as the variation pattern number regardless of the variation pattern determination random number between 0 and 250.

  If the main control CPU 72 has set the fluctuation mode offset “01” as a return value, the main control CPU 72 designates the table address shown in FIG. In this case, the main control CPU 72 selects “special 1” as the variation pattern number regardless of the variation pattern determination random number between 0 and 250.

  Next, when the main control CPU 72 has set the fluctuation mode offset “02” as a return value, the main control CPU 72 designates the table address shown in FIG. At this time, if the variation pattern determination random number is within the range of 0 to 200, the main control CPU 72 selects “special 2” as the variation pattern number, but the variation pattern determination random number is 201 or more (within 250). If there is, the main control CPU 72 selects “Special 4” as the variation pattern number.

  In the same manner, the main control CPU 72 sets the return values for the variable mode offsets “03”, “04”, “05”, “06”, “07”, “08”, “09”, “10”, respectively. The table addresses shown in (D), (E), (F), (G), (H), (I), (J), and (K) in FIG. The main control CPU 72 can select a variation pattern number corresponding to the value of the variation pattern determination random number in each table.

[Variation time setting]
FIG. 31 is a diagram for explaining the variation time of the special symbol.
In the present embodiment, the variation time of the special symbols (the first special symbol and the second special symbol) is the first special symbol and the second special symbol at the start of the variation (after the memory shift process), except when the reach variation is performed. Is set based on the total stored number (so-called total number of pending). This table is applied when the variation pattern number “special 0” is selected in the variation pattern selection table (see FIG. 30) when “non-reach” is lost. Specific numerical values are as follows.

[Common to the 1st special design and the 2nd special design]
(Total memory number 0) Fluctuation time: about 12 seconds (Total memory number 1) Fluctuation time: About 10 seconds (Total memory number 2) Fluctuation time: About 10 seconds (Total memory number 3) Fluctuation time: About 2.0 seconds (Total memory number 4) Fluctuation time: About 2.0 seconds (Total memory number 5) Fluctuation time: About 2.0 seconds (Total memory number 6) Fluctuation time: About 2.0 seconds (Total memory number 7) Fluctuation time About 6.0 seconds The above total memory number “0-7” is obtained after subtracting the first special symbol working memory number or the second special symbol working memory number in the special symbol memory area shift process (step S2200). It is the sum of the values. Therefore, the total memory number before the memory shift (the working memory number counter is subtracted) in the same process is “1-8”.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when the total stored number at the start of fluctuation is 3 to 6, for example, as the fluctuation time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol at the time of deviation from “non-reach”, Instead of the normal variation time (10 to 12 seconds) set to the length, a first shortened variation time (about 2.0 seconds) that is shorter than the normal variation time is set.

  On the other hand, when the total stored number at the start of the change at the time of the departure of “non-reach” is 7 (eight specified values before the storage shift), the change time of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is A second shortened variation time (about 6.0 seconds) that is shorter than the normal variation time but longer than the first shortened variation time is set.

  As described above, the reason why the second shortened variation time is set when the total number of memories at the start of variation is 7 at the time of “non-reach” deviation is as follows. In other words, in this embodiment, regardless of whether the time reduction state or the non-time reduction state is in effect, the distribution device 200 wins the right start winning opening 26 and the variable start winning device 28 (left start winning prize). It is possible to alternately generate a prize for the mouth 28a) (or to promote the generation of a prize alternately). For this reason, if the launch of the game ball is not particularly interrupted, the number of working memories of the first special symbol and the number of working memories of the second special symbol each reach the maximum value (4), so that in the normal state It is quite possible that the total number of memories reaches a specified value (eight of the sum of the maximum values) during the game. When the total number of memories reaches a specified value during a game in a normal state, in this embodiment, a special zone effect (special period effect) using the logo display body 40m, the memory display bodies 41a to 41h, the liquid crystal display 42, and the like. In order to secure the necessary production time (production scale), the variation time is set to the second shortened variation time (for example, about 6.0 seconds) when the total number of memories is seven. I am going to set it. Such a special zone effect will be described later with a specific example.

  When the procedure of the variation pattern determination process (FIG. 29) is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol fluctuation pre-process (FIG. 28). After returning, the main control CPU 72 proceeds to a special symbol variation pre-process (step S2415 in FIG. 28).

[See Fig. 28: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Here, step S2404 and step S2405, which are executed before the special symbol variation pre-processing (step S2415), are control procedures when the big hit determination result is out of place (in the case of non-winning), but the determination result is a big hit (step In the case of S2400: Yes) or small hit (step S2402: Yes), the main control CPU 72 executes the following procedure. First, the case of jackpot will be described.

  Step S2410: The main control CPU 72 executes a big hit stop symbol determination process (winning type determining means, first symbol winning type determining means, second symbol winning type determining means). In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol (stop symbol number at the time of jackpot) for each special symbol (first special symbol or second special symbol) based on the jackpot symbol random number. The relationship between the jackpot symbol random number and the type of winning symbol is defined in advance in the special symbol determination data table (winning type defining unit, first symbol winning type defining unit, second symbol winning type defining unit). For this reason, the main control CPU 72 can determine the type of winning symbol based on the big hit symbol random number from the stored contents by referring to the big hit symbol stop selection table in the big hit symbol stop determination process.

[Winning pattern at the time of big hit]
In this embodiment, there are roughly 10 types of winning symbols that are selectively determined at the time of a big hit. The 10 types are: “7 Round Normal Symbol 1”, “7 Round Normal Symbol 2”, “7 Round Normal Symbol 3”, “16 Round Normal Symbol 1”, “16 Round Normal Symbol 2”, “16 Round Normal” Symbol 3 ”,“ 16 round probability variation symbol 1 ”,“ 16 round probability variation symbol 2 ”,“ 7 round probability variation symbol 1 ”, and“ 7 round probability variation symbol 2 ”. Each of the 10 types of winning symbols may further include a plurality of winning symbols. For example, “7 round normal symbol 1”, “7 round normal symbol 1a”, “7 round normal symbol 1b”, “7 round normal symbol 1c”, and so on.

  In the present embodiment, the first special symbol and the second special symbol are different in the type of winning symbol selected at the time of the big winning of the internal lottery corresponding to each. That is, at the time of the big winning of the internal lottery corresponding to the first special symbol, any one of “7 round normal symbols 1 to 3”, “16 round probability variation symbol 1”, and “7 round probability variation symbols 1 and 2” is selected.

  On the other hand, at the time of the big winning of the internal lottery corresponding to the second special symbol, any one of “16 round normal symbols 1 to 3” and “16 round probability variation symbols 1 and 2” is selected. For this reason, the main control CPU 72 distinguishes the objects that can be selected as the winning symbol depending on whether the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

[First Special Symbol Big Stop Stop Symbol Selection Table]
FIG. 32 is a diagram showing a configuration column of the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. When the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of the winning symbol with reference to the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table shown in FIG.

  In the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the left column shows the distribution value by winning symbol, and each distribution value “6”, “7”, “8”, “4”, “ 48 "and" 27 "correspond to the ratio when the denominator is 100. In the second column from the left, “7 round normal symbol 1”, “7 round normal symbol 2”, “7 round normal symbol 3”, “16 round probability variable symbol 1”, “ 7 round probability variation design 1 "," 7 round probability variation design 2 "are shown. That is, at the big hit corresponding to the first special symbol, the ratio of “7 round normal symbol 1” selected is 6/100 (= 6%), and the ratio of “7 round normal symbol 2” selected is It is 7/100 (= 7%). In addition, the ratio that “7 round normal symbol 3” is selected is 8/100 (= 8%), and the proportion that “16 round probability variation 1” is selected is 4/100 (= 4%). is there. In addition, the ratio that “7 round probability variation 1” is selected is 48/100 (= 48%), and the rate that “7 round probability variation 2” is selected is 27/100 (= 27%). is there. The size of each distribution value corresponds to the selection ratio for each winning symbol using a jackpot symbol random number. Therefore, the selection ratio of probability variation symbols for the first special symbol as a whole is 79%.

  In any case, if the current jackpot result corresponds to the first special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the jackpot symbol random number, and the selection ratio shown in the first special symbol jackpot stop symbol selection table To select the winning symbol selectively. Further, in the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as a stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. The stop symbol command is described by, for example, a combination of MODE value-EVENT value, and among these, the MODE value “B1H” of the upper byte is selected when the winning symbol of this time is the big hit of the first special symbol. Represents. In addition, the EVENT values “00H”, “01H”, “02H”, “06H”, “08H”, and “09H” in the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding to each other in the selection table. Therefore, for example, if the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the first special symbol and “7 round normal symbol 1” is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command at the time of winning is described as “B1H00H” Will be.

  As described above, when the selected symbol is selected from the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 determines a big hit stop symbol number for the first special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

[Time reduction]
In the fourth column (right column) from the left of the first special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the value of the number of short times (limit number) given after the big hit game is ended is shown. Specific values for the number of time reductions are as follows.

In the case of “7 round normal symbol 1”, the time reduction is given 0 times. It should be noted that that the number of time reductions is given 0 means a state that is substantially the same as the state where the time reductions are not given.
In the case of “7 round normal symbol 2”, the number of time reductions is given 0 times.
In the case of “7 round normal symbol 3”, the number of time reductions is given 0 times.
As for “7 round normal symbols 1 to 3”, if the winning time is in the time shortening state, 30 times, 50 times, and 100 times may be given.

In the case of “16 round probability variation 1”, the number of time reductions is given 10,000 times.
In the case of “7 round probability variation 1”, the number of time reductions is given 10,000 times.
In the case of “7 round probability variation 2”, the number of time reductions is given 0 times. Therefore, when winning in “7-round probability variation 2”, the transition is made to the high probability state, but the transition to the time reduction state is not made, so the transition to the so-called latent probability variation state is made.

[2nd special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table]
FIG. 33 is a diagram showing a configuration column of the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table. When the result of the big jackpot corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 determines the winning symbol type with reference to the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table shown in FIG.

  In the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the left column also shows the distribution value by winning symbol, and each distribution value is “6”, “7”, “8”, “4”. , “75” corresponds to the ratio when the denominator is 100. Similarly, in the second column from the left, “16 round normal symbol 1”, “16 round normal symbol 2”, “16 round normal symbol 3”, “16 round probability variation 1” corresponding to each distribution value, “16-round probability variation 2” is shown. That is, at the big hit corresponding to the second special symbol, the ratio of selecting “16 round normal symbol 1” is 6/100 (= 6%), and “16 round normal symbol 2” is selected. The ratio is 7/100 (= 7%). In addition, the ratio that “16 round normal symbol 3” is selected is 8/100 (= 8%), and the proportion that “16 round probability variation 1” is selected is 4/100 (= 4%). is there. Further, the ratio of selecting “16 round probability variation 2” is 75/100 (= 75%). Therefore, also for the second special symbol, the selection ratio of the probability variation symbol as a whole is 79%. However, in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, distribution values for “7 round normal symbols 1 to 3” and “7 round probability variation symbols 1 and 2” are not set.

  When the result of this big hit corresponds to the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 performs a selection lottery based on the big hit symbol random number, and selects the winning symbol with the selection ratio shown in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table To decide. Similarly, in the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, for example, 2-byte command data is defined as the stop symbol command at the time of winning as shown in the third column from the left. Again, the stop symbol command is described by the combination of the above MODE value-EVENT value. Among these, the MODE value “B2H” of the upper byte is the one selected when the winning symbol of the second special symbol is the current winning symbol. It represents that. Further, the EVENT values “03H”, “04H”, “05H”, “06H”, and “07H” in the lower byte represent the types of winning symbols corresponding in the selection table. Therefore, for example, if the result of the big hit this time corresponds to the second special symbol, and “16 round normal symbol 1” is selected as the winning symbol, the stop symbol command is described as “B2H03H”. Become.

  As described above, when the selected symbol is selected from the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command at that time. The generated stop symbol command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process described above, for example. Further, the main control CPU 72 determines a big hit stop symbol number for the second special symbol based on the selected winning symbol.

[Time reduction]
The fourth column from the left (right column) of the second special symbol big hit stop symbol selection table shows the value of the number of short hours given after the big hit game ends. Specific values for the number of time reductions are as follows.
In the case of “16 round normal symbol 1”, the number of time reductions is given 30 times.
In the case of “16 round normal symbol 2”, the number of time reductions is given 50 times.
In the case of “16 round normal symbol 3”, the number of time reductions is given 100 times.
In the case of “16 round probability variation 1”, the number of time reductions is given 10,000 times.
In the case of “16 round probability variation 2”, the number of time reductions is given 10,000 times.

  Note that the selected winning symbols are different between the first special symbol and the second special symbol as described above, for example, for the following reason. That is, when shifting to the “high probability state” or “time shortening state”, the variable start winning device 28 operates more frequently than in the normal time (when the time shortening function is not activated), so the second special symbol The working memory of is difficult to break. In this embodiment, since the memory for the second special symbol is prioritized over the first special symbol, the winning type for the second special symbol is “7 round normal big hit” or “7 round probability big hit”. If “” is excluded, it becomes difficult to draw “7 round normal big hit” or “7 round probable big hit” especially in the “high probability state” and “time shortened state”, so the player's profit can be increased accordingly. There is an advantage.

[See Fig. 28: Special symbol change pre-processing]
Step S2412: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit hour variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined fluctuation time (fluctuation seconds at the time of big hit) in the fluctuation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time in the stop symbol display timer. In general, in the case of big hit reach fluctuation, a fluctuation time longer than that at the time of loss is determined.

  In the present embodiment, when the result of the internal lottery corresponds to 16 round big hit (16 round normal big hit or 16 round positive hit big hit) or 7 round big hit (7 round normal big hit or 7 round positive hit big hit), It is assumed that control is performed to generate a “effect” and make a big hit. The “big hit winning variation pattern selection table” defines a variation pattern corresponding to multiple types of “reach production”, and when it hits 16 round big hit or 7 round big hit, one of them is selected. Will be selected. The reach production includes various reach production such as normal reach production, weak super reach production, strong super reach production, story reach production, and the like. When winning in a high probability state in which the time shortening function is activated, a variation pattern having a short variation time (a variation pattern not performing reach production) is selected without selecting a variation pattern having a long variation time. You may do it. In this case, it is necessary to prepare a selection table for each internal state or special symbol. The same applies to the variation pattern selection table at the time of loss.

  Step S2414: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a big hit other setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines whether the winning symbol type (hit stop symbol number) determined in the previous step S2410 is “7 round probability variation symbol 1, 2” or “16 round probability variation symbol 1, 2”. In some cases, the value (01H) of the probability variation function operation flag is set as a gaming state flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 (high probability state transition means, probability variation function operation means). The main control CPU 72 determines the probability as the gaming state flag when the type of winning symbol determined in the previous step S2410 is any one of “7 round normal symbols 1 to 3” and “16 round normal symbols 1 to 3”. The value of the variable function operation flag is reset (low probability state setting means, low probability state transition means).

  Further, the main control CPU 72 determines that the winning symbol type (stop symbol number at the time of big hit) determined in the previous step S2410 is “16 round probability variation symbol 1, 2,” “7 round probability variation symbol 1,” “16 round normal symbol 1 to In the case of “3”, the main control CPU 72 sets the value (01H) of the time shortening function operation flag as a game state flag in the flag area of the RAM 76 (time shortening state transition means, time shortening function operation means).

  In the process of step S2414, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (big hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the big hit time stop symbol number. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a lottery result command (at the time of the big hit) together with the stop symbol command (at the time of the big hit). The stop symbol command and the lottery result command are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

Next, processing for small hits will be described.
Step S2407: The main control CPU 72 executes a small hit stop symbol determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the type of winning symbol at the time of small hit (stop symbol number at small hit) based on the big hit symbol random number. Similarly, the relationship between the big winning symbol random number value and the type of winning symbol at the time of small hitting is preliminarily defined in the special symbol selection table at small hitting (winning type defining means). In this embodiment, in order to reduce the load on the main control CPU 72, the winning symbol at the time of the small hit is determined using the big hit symbol random number, but a dedicated random number may be used separately.

[Winning pattern for small hits]
In the present embodiment, the winning symbol at the time of small hitting is only one type of “twice open small hitting symbol”. However, other types such as “one time opening small hit symbol” and “three times opening small hit symbol” may be prepared. As described above, “small hit” as a result of the internal lottery is not an opportunity for the subsequent state to change to “high probability state” or “time reduction state”, and thus is essential for this type of pachinko machine. A “one-time small hit symbol” can be provided without being bound by the definition of “two rounds (two times open) or more”.

  Step S2408: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hit hour variation pattern determination process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the variation pattern (variation time and stop display time) of the first special symbol or the second special symbol based on the variation pattern determination random number shifted in the previous step S2200 (variation pattern selection means). ). Further, the main control CPU 72 sets the value of the determined variation time (the number of variation seconds at the small hit) in the variation timer, and sets the value of the stop display time in the stop symbol display timer. In the present embodiment, the reach variation pattern can be selected in the case of a small hit, or a variation pattern equivalent to that in the normal variation can be selected.

  Step S2409: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes a small hitting and other setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the display mode of the stop symbol (small hit symbol) by the first special symbol display device 34 or the second special symbol display device 35 based on the stop symbol number at the time of small hit. In addition, the main control CPU 72 generates a stop symbol command and a lottery result command (at the time of a small hit) to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The stop symbol command and the lottery result command are also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step S2415: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes special symbol variation start processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 selects the fluctuation pattern data based on the fluctuation pattern number (out of time / hit). At the same time, the main control CPU 72 sets a special symbol variation start flag in the flag area of the RAM 76. Then, the main control CPU 72 generates a change start command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. This variation start command is also transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol changing process (step S3000) as the next jump destination and returns to the special symbol game process.

[FIG. 27: Special Symbol Fluctuation Processing, Special Symbol Stop Display Processing]
In the special symbol fluctuation processing, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the fluctuation timer from the register to the timer counter as described above, and then the timer according to the passage of time (clock pulse count number or interrupt counter value). Decrement the counter value. The main control CPU 72 controls the special symbol variation display as described above until the value becomes 0 while referring to the value of the timer counter. When the value of the timer counter becomes 0, the main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol stop display in-progress process (step S4000) as the next jump destination.

  In the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 controls the special symbol stop display based on the stop symbol determined in the stop symbol determination process (steps S2404, S2407, and S2410 in FIG. 28). The main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command to be transmitted to the effect control device 124. The symbol stop command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. When the stop symbol is displayed for a predetermined time in the special symbol stop display process, the main control CPU 72 deletes the symbol changing flag.

[Special symbol memory area shift processing]
FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol storage area shift process. In the previous special symbol variation pre-processing, when the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the first special symbol or the second special symbol is greater than “0” (step S2100: Yes in FIG. 28), the main control CPU 72 Executes this special symbol storage area shift process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S2210: The main control CPU 72 refers to the random number storage area and confirms whether or not the oldest memory corresponds to the first special symbol. This confirmation can be realized by confirming whether or not a random number corresponding to the first special symbol is stored in the first section of the random number storage area of the RAM 76. At this time, if it is confirmed that the oldest memory does not correspond to the first special symbol (No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S2212.

  Step S2212: The main control CPU 72 designates the second special symbol as the target special symbol (special symbol to be changed). This designation is performed, for example, by setting “02H” as the target symbol designation value.

  Step S2214: On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the oldest memory corresponds to the first special symbol (Step S2210: Yes), the main control CPU 72 designates the first special symbol as the target special symbol. The designation in this case is performed, for example, by setting “01H” as the target symbol designation value.

  Step S2216: The main control CPU 72 shifts the random number storage area of the RAM 76. The details of the specific processing are as already described in the previous special symbol change pre-processing.

  Step S2218: The main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the operation memory counter for the target special symbol designated in either step S2212 or step S2214. For example, if the current target special symbol is the second special symbol, the main control CPU 72 subtracts (-1) the value of the working memory counter corresponding to the second special symbol.

  Step S2220: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets “the number of operation memories at the start of fluctuation” from the value of the operation memory counter after the subtraction. Here, for both the first special symbol and the second special symbol, the value of the operation memory counter may be added and the “number of operation memories at the start of change” may be set. The “number of working memories at start of variation (total number of memories)” set here is, for example, the state variation and the number of working memories as described above in the variation pattern determination process at the time of deviation (step S2450 in FIG. 29). This can be referred to when setting the reach-reach group selection table.

Step S2222: The main control CPU 72 also checks whether or not the special symbol to be shifted in the current storage area is the second special symbol.
Step S2224: When the target is the second special symbol (step S2222: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the working command when the number of working memories is reduced for the second special symbol. The effect command set here is also generated as a one-word-length command, but its structure is in contrast to the above-described “effect command when increasing the number of working memories”. That is, the production command at the time when the number of working memories decreases is lower than the preceding value (for example, “BBH”) indicating the command type, and the value of the lower bytes (for example, “00H” to “03H” indicating the number of operating memories after the decrease. )) And an additional value (for example, “10H”) meaning “decrease in the number of working memories accompanying consumption” is further added (logical sum) to the lower byte value. Therefore, for the lower byte, the second value becomes “1” by ORing the added value “10H”, and this value represents “the result (change information) due to the decrease in the number of working memories”. It will be a thing. In other words, if the lower byte of the command is “13H”, it means that the number of working memories up to the previous time “4” (command notation is “14H”) is reduced by one, so that the number of working memories this time is “3” (command The notation is “13H”). Similarly, if the lower byte is “12H” to “10H”, it means that the number of working memories “3” to “1” up to the previous time (command notation is “13H” to “11H”) is decreased by one respectively. This indicates that the current operation memory number is “2” to “0” (command notation is “12H” to “10H”). The preceding value “BBH” is a value indicating that the current effect command is the working memory number command for the second special symbol.

  Step S2226: If the current target is the first special symbol (Step S2222: No), the main control CPU 72 sets an effect command for reducing the number of working memories regarding the first special symbol. The command in this case is the same as the above except that the preceding value is a value (for example, “BAH”) indicating that it is a working memory number command for the first special symbol.

Step S2228: Then, the main control CPU 72 executes an effect command output process. This process is for transmitting the production command for reducing the number of working memories set in the previous step S2224 or step S2226 to the production control device 124 (memory number notification means).
When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 28).

[Special symbol stop display processing]
Next, FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the special symbol stop display process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S4100: The main control CPU 72 subtracts the value of the stop symbol display timer (decrements by the interrupt period).

  Step S4200: The main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the stop display time has ended based on the value of the stop symbol display timer subtracted this time. Specifically, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is not 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has not yet ended (No). In this case, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process, and jumps from the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 27) and repeatedly executes the special symbol stop display process in the next interrupt cycle.

  On the other hand, if the value of the stop symbol display timer is 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 determines that the stop display time has ended (Yes). In this case, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4250.

  Step S4250: The main control CPU 72 generates a symbol stop command. The symbol stop command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process. Further, the main control CPU 72 deletes the symbol changing flag here.

  Step S4300: Here, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set. When the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4350.

[When winning]
Step S4350: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination of the jump table to “variable winning device management process”.
Step S4355: Further, the main control CPU 72 resets the flag at the time of cut-off function operation. Thereby, when at least one of the variation time shortening function or the probability variation function is activated before the big hit game is started, the function is deactivated.
Step S4400: The main control CPU 72 sets “start of big role (during big hit game)” as an internal state flag for control. The main control CPU 72 sets the value of the continuous operation count status according to the type of the big hit symbol. For example, if the type of jackpot symbol is “16 round normal symbol” or “16 round probability variation symbol”, a value corresponding to “16 round” is set in the continuous operation count status. In the case of “7 round normal symbol” or “7 round probability variation symbol”, a value representing “7 round” is set in the continuous operation count status. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command representing a big hit. The state command representing the big hit is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step S4500: The main control CPU 72 generates a continuous operation number command. The continuous operation number command can be generated based on the type of jackpot symbol (stop symbol number) determined in the previous jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 28). For example, if the type of jackpot symbol is any “16 round probability variation symbol”, the continuous operation number command is generated as a value (maximum number of times) representing “16 rounds”. Further, in the case of “7 round probability variation symbol”, the continuous operation number command is generated as a value representing “7 rounds”. The generated continuous operation number command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  When the above procedure is completed at the time of the big hit, the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process.

[When not winning]
On the other hand, the following procedure is executed in cases other than the big hit.
That is, if the main control CPU 72 determines in step S4300 that the value of the big hit flag (01H) is not set (No), it next executes step S4600.

  Step S4600: The main control CPU 72 next checks whether or not the value of the small hit flag (01H) is set. If the value of the small hit flag (01H) is not set and is simply a deviation (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4602.

  Step S4602: The main control CPU 72 sets the special symbol variation pre-processing address as the jump destination address of the jump table.

  Step S4605: On the other hand, if the value (01H) of the small hit flag is set (step S4600: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the address of the variable winning device management process as the jump destination address of the jump table.

  Step S4606: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets “small hit start (medium hit)” as an internal state flag for control. At the same time, the main control CPU 72 generates a status command indicating that a small hit is being made. The state command representing the small hit is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  Step 4610: Next, the main control CPU 72 loads the value of the count-down counter. In the “counting counter”, the counter values are set in the probability variation count area and the time reduction count area of the RAM 76 in the “high probability state” and the “time reduction state”. In this case, “number of times cut” is used, but the value of the number of times counter in the “high probability state” can be set to an extremely large value (for example, 10,000 times or more). By setting such an enormous value, it is possible to probabilistically guarantee that the “high probability state” will continue until the next winning is substantially obtained. In addition, when there is only a single “time shortening state” instead of the “high probability state”, the count-down counter is set to a standard numerical value (for example, 30 times, 50 times, 100 times, etc.).

  Step S4620: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the loaded counter value is zero. At this time, if the count cut counter value is already 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, when the count cut counter value is not 0 (No), after generating the count cut counter value command, the main control CPU 72 next executes step S4630.

Step S4630: The main control CPU 72 decrements (subtracts 1) the count-down counter value.
Step S4640: Then, the main control CPU 72 determines whether or not the subtraction result is not zero. As a result of the subtraction, when the value of the number cut counter is not 0 (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the special symbol game process. On the other hand, if the value of the number cut counter becomes 0 (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S4650.

  Step S4650: Here, the main control CPU 72 resets a flag at the time of turning off the number of times function. The probability variable function operation flag or the time shortening function operation flag is reset, but since the value of the count counter is not zero in the “high probability state” as described above, it is practical. It is the time reduction function activation flag that is reset above. As a result, the time reduction state ends after the special symbol stop display. When the above procedure is completed, the process returns to the special symbol game process.

[Display output management processing]
FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of the display output management process (step S210 in FIG. 19) executed in the interrupt management process. The display output management process includes a special symbol display setting process (step S1200), a normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), a state display setting process (step S1220), an operation memory display setting process (step S1230), and a continuous operation number display setting. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S1240).

  Among these, the special symbol display setting process (step S1200), the normal symbol display setting process (step S1210), and the operation memory display setting process (step S1230) are the first special symbol display device 34, the second, as already described. Generates drive signals to be applied to the LEDs of the special symbol display device 35, the normal symbol display device 33, the normal symbol operation memory lamp 33a, the first special symbol operation memory lamp 34a, and the second special symbol operation memory number display lamp 35a. And output processing.

  The state display setting process (step S1220) and the continuous operation number display setting process (step S1240) are processes for generating and outputting a drive signal to be applied to each LED of the gaming state display device 38. First, in the state display setting process, the main control CPU 72 controls the lighting of the probability variation state display lamp 38c and the time reduction state display lamp 38d, respectively, according to the value of the probability variation function activation flag or the time reduction function activation flag. For example, if the value (01H) is set in the probability variation function operation flag when the pachinko machine 1 is turned on, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the LED corresponding to the probability variation state display lamp 38c. The probability variation state display lamp 38c continues to be lit until the big hit game related to the special symbol is started, or until the probability variation function is turned off (inactivated) after the special symbol variation display is performed a specified number of times. Thereafter, it is switched to non-display (turned off). On the other hand, if the value (01H) is set in the time reduction function operation flag, the main control CPU 72 turns on the lighting signal for the LED corresponding to the time reduction state display lamp 38d regardless of whether or not the power is turned on. Is output.

  The main control CPU 72 controls lighting of the big hit type display lamps 38a and 38b in the continuous operation number display setting process. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal for one of the jackpot type display lamps 38a and 38b based on the value of the continuous operation number status represented by the type of winning symbol (by number of rounds) this time. . At this time, one of the display lamps 38a and 38b designated by the value of the continuous operation number status represented by the winning symbol is the target of outputting the lighting signal. For example, if the value of the continuous operation count status designates “16 rounds”, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38b representing “16 rounds (16R)”. If the value of the continuous operation count status specifies “7 rounds”, the main control CPU 72 outputs a lighting signal to the lamp 38 a representing “7 rounds (7R)”.

[Variable winning device management process]
Next, details of the variable winning device management process will be described. FIG. 37 is a flowchart illustrating a configuration example of the variable winning device management process. The variable winning device management process includes a gaming process selection process (step S5100), a special winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200), a special winning opening / closing operation process (step S5300), a special winning opening closing process (step S5400), and an end. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S5500).

  Step S5100: In the game process selection process, the main control CPU 72 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S5200 to S5500). That is, the main control CPU 72 selects the program address of the process to be executed next from the jump table as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the variable winning device management process in the stack pointer as the return destination address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the operation (opening / closing operation) of the variable winning device 30 has not started yet, the main control CPU 72 selects the large winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5200) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the winning opening opening pattern setting process has already been completed, the main control CPU 72 selects the winning opening opening / closing operation process (step S5300) as the next jump destination, and has completed the winning opening opening / closing operation process. Then, the special winning opening closing process (step S5400) is selected as the next jump destination. When the big prize opening / closing operation process and the big prize opening closing process are repeatedly executed over the set number of continuous operations (number of rounds), the main control CPU 72 selects an end process (step S5500) as the next jump destination. . Hereinafter, each process will be described in more detail.

[Big prize opening pattern setting process]
FIG. 38 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the special winning opening opening pattern setting process. This process is for setting conditions such as the number of times that the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed and the time for each opening at the time of big hit or small hit. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along each procedure.

  Step S5202: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the current gaming state is a big game, that is, whether or not the big hit flag value (01H) is set in the flag area of the RAM 76. If the value of the big hit flag is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5204. On the other hand, if the value of the big hit flag is not set (No), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5212. Note that this procedure may be rewritten to refer to the value of the small hit flag (however, the logic of Yes / No is reversed).

[Procedure for jackpot]
First, the procedure for the big hit is as follows.
Step S5204: The main control CPU 72 executes a design-specific release pattern setting process. In this process, the main control CPU 72 determines the opening pattern of the big prize opening (the number of times of opening and the time of each opening), the closing time, the interval time between rounds, and the count during one round according to the current winning symbol. Set the number (maximum number of winnings). Note that the opening pattern for each winning symbol is as described in the item “plural winning types” in the special symbol game process (FIG. 27). The total of the interval time between the closing time and the round is set to about several seconds (for example, 2 seconds to 2.5 seconds) for “7 round symbols” and “16 round symbols”, for example. Note that the number of counts in one round (maximum number of winnings) is, for example, 9 for all winning symbols, but winnings rarely occur during an extremely short opening (about 0.1 seconds) ( Not impossible but extremely difficult).

  Step S5206: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds in the current jackpot game based on the jackpot winning symbol selected in the previous jackpot stop symbol determination process (step S2410 in FIG. 28). Specifically, if the large category “16 round symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to 16 times. If “7 round symbol” is selected as the winning symbol, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of execution rounds to seven. The number of execution rounds set here is stored in the buffer area of the RAM 76, for example, as a corresponding value on the program (“6” for 7 times, “15” for 16 times).

  Step S5208: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets a big hit opening timer based on the big winning opening opening pattern set in the previous step S5204. The timer value set here is the opening time per operation when the variable winning device 30 is operated. If a value of about 29.0 seconds is set as the value of the big hit release timer, the release time is a sufficient time (for example, a launch control board) that the big winning opening is easily generated during one release. The set 174 is a time during which 10 or more game balls are fired, preferably 6 seconds or more. On the other hand, if the value of the big hit release timer is set to 0.1 seconds, the release time is short (becomes difficult) even if it is not possible to win a big prize opening during one opening. This is a time (for example, a time shorter than 1 second, preferably a time shorter than a game ball firing interval by the firing control board set 174).

  Step S5210: Then, the main control CPU 72 sets a big hit interval timer based on the big winning opening opening pattern set in the previous step S5204. The timer value set here is the waiting time between rounds of big hits.

  Step S5220: When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening / closing operation processing, and returns to the variable winning device management processing.

[Procedure for small hits]
Step S5212: On the other hand, in the case of a small hit (step S5202: No), the main control CPU 72 sets a “small hit opening pattern”. In the case of the present embodiment, for the “small hit opening pattern”, for example, an opening pattern of “0.1 second opening” is set for the first time and the second time. Since “small hit” has no concept of “round”, “open pattern” is also expressed as “first open” and “second open”.

  Step S5214: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of times that the special winning opening is opened based on the large winning opening opening pattern set in the previous step S5212, for example, two times. The number of releases set here is stored in a buffer area of the RAM 76, for example.

  Step S5216: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets a small hitting release timer. The timer value set here is the opening time per operation when the variable winning device 30 is operated. In the present embodiment, as described above, 0.1 seconds is set as the value of the small hitting release timer, and during such an opening time, there is hardly any winning in the big winning opening during one opening. It becomes a short time (becomes difficult) (for example, a time shorter than 1 second, preferably a time shorter than the interval between game balls fired by the launching device unit).

  Step S5218: The main control CPU 72 sets a small hitting interval timer. The timer value set here is a waiting time for each time when the variable winning device 30 is opened and closed a plurality of times at the time of a small hit, and this timer value is set to about 2 seconds, for example.

  Step S5220: When the above procedure is completed at the time of the small hit, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the large winning opening / closing operation processing, and returns to the variable winning device management processing. Then, the main control CPU 72 executes a special winning opening / closing operation process.

[Big prize opening / closing operation processing]
FIG. 39 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a special prize opening / closing operation process. This process is mainly for controlling the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along a procedure.

  Step S5302: The main control CPU 72 opens the special winning opening. Specifically, a drive signal to be applied to the special winning opening solenoid 90 is output. Thereby, the variable prize-winning apparatus 30 operates and shifts from the closed state to the open state.

  Step S5304: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes an open timer countdown process. In this process, the countdown of the release timer set in the previous special winning opening release pattern setting process (step S5208 or step S5216 in FIG. 38) is executed.

  Step S5306: Subsequently, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the opening time has expired. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the release timer after the countdown process is 0 or less. If the value of the release timer is not yet 0 or less (No), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5308. Execute.

  Step S5308: The main control CPU 72 executes a winning ball count process. In this process, the number of game balls won in the variable winning device 30 (open winning opening) within the opening time is counted. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 increments the count value based on the winning detection signal input from the count switch 84 within the opening time.

  Step S5310: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the current count number is less than a predetermined number (9). This predetermined number defines the upper limit of the number of winning balls (upper limit of the number of winning balls) allowed per opening (one round in the big hit, one in the small hit) as described above. If the count has not yet reached the predetermined number (Yes), the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, since the jump destination is set to the large winning opening / closing operation process at the present stage, the main control CPU 72 repeatedly executes the procedure of the above steps S5302 to S5310.

  If it is determined in step S5306 that the opening time has expired (Yes), or if it is confirmed in step S5310 that the count has reached a predetermined number (No), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5312. Note that the release at the time of the small hit is that the value of the release timer is set to a short time, and therefore, the main control CPU 72 normally confirms that the count number has reached the predetermined number in step S5310 before step S5306. In most cases, it is determined that the opening time has ended.

  Step S5312: The main control CPU 72 closes the special winning opening. Specifically, the output of the drive signal applied to the special winning opening solenoid 90 is stopped. As a result, the variable winning device 30 returns from the open state to the closed state.

  Step S5314: Next, the main control CPU 72 executes interval standby processing. In this process, the main control CPU 72 executes the countdown of the interval timer set in the above-described special winning opening opening pattern setting process (step S5210 or step S5218 in FIG. 38). When the value of the interval timer becomes 0 or less, the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5316.

  Step S5316: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not it is in a big role (during big hit game). If the current game is a big game (Yes), the main control CPU 72 then executes step S5318. On the other hand, if the current game is a small hit (No), the main control CPU 72 then proceeds to step S5322.

  Step S5318: The main control CPU 72 increments the value of the opening number counter. Note that the value of the number-of-releases counter is stored in the count area of the RAM 76 with an initial value of 0, for example.

  Step S5320: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the incremented number-of-releases counter has reached the number set within the current round. Here, the reason why the “number of times set in the current round” is determined is to deal with an opening pattern of “opening the variable winning device 30 multiple times within one round of big hit”, for example. . In the present embodiment, since such an open pattern is not particularly employed, the “number of times set in the current round” is set once for each round. Therefore, since the counter value reaches the set number of times in one opening / closing operation (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next proceeds to step S5322.

  If a pattern in which a plurality of opening / closing operations are repeated in one round as described above is employed, the counter value has not yet reached the set number of times at the end of one opening (No). In this case, when the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process, the jump destination is set to the big winning opening / closing operation process at the present stage, and thus the procedure from step S5302 to step S5320 is repeatedly executed. As a result, the increment of the number-of-releases counter proceeds in step S5318, and when the counter value reaches the set number of times (Yes), the main control CPU 72 proceeds to step S5322.

  Step S5322: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the big winning opening closing process, and returns to the variable winning device management process. Then, when the variable winning device management process is executed next, the main control CPU 72 executes a special winning opening closing process.

[Large prize closing process]
FIG. 40 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a special winning opening closing process. This special winning opening closing process is for continuing the operation of the variable winning device 30 or terminating the operation. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along a procedure.

  Step S5401: First, the main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the current game is a big game (big hit game), and if it is a big game (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5402.

  Step S5402: The main control CPU 72 increments the round number counter. Thereby, for example, the value of the round number counter is “1” at the stage where the first round ends and the second round is reached.

  Step S5404: The main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the incremented round number counter value has reached the set number of execution rounds. Specifically, the main control CPU 72 refers to the value (1 to 16) of the round number counter after increment, and if the value is less than the set number of execution rounds (1 to 16 after 1 subtraction) (No) Next, step S5405 is executed.

  Step S5405: The main control CPU 72 generates a round number command from the current round number counter value. This command is transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process as described above. The effect control device 124 can confirm the current number of rounds based on the received round number command.

  Step S5406: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the big prize opening / closing operation process.

  Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process.

  When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes a big prize opening opening / closing operation process which is the next jump destination in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 37). Then, after execution of the special prize opening / closing operation process, through the execution of the special prize opening closing process, the main control CPU 72 executes the special prize opening closing process again, and repeatedly executes the above steps S5402 to S5408. Thereby, the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30 is continuously executed until the actual round number reaches the set execution round number (7 times or 16 times).

  When the actual number of rounds reaches the set number of execution rounds (step S5404: YES), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5410.

  Step S5410, Step S5412: In this case, when the main control CPU 72 resets the round number counter (= 0), it sets the next jump destination to the end process.

  Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process. As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the end process is selected this time.

[Small hit]
On the other hand, in the case of a small hit, the procedure is as follows (special operation execution means).
Step S5411: When the main control CPU 72 confirms that the current game is not playing a major role (step S5401: No), the main control CPU 72 increments the value of the number-of-releases counter.

  Step S5413: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the incremented number-of-releases counter has reached the set number of times of release. The number of times of opening is set in the previous big opening opening pattern setting process (step S5214 in FIG. 38). If the value of the opening number counter has not yet reached the set opening number (No), the main control CPU 72 executes step S5416.

Step S5416: The main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the special winning opening / closing operation process.
Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process.

  When the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the main control CPU 72 executes a big prize opening opening / closing operation process which is the next jump destination in the game process selection process (step S5100 in FIG. 37). Then, after the execution of the special prize opening / closing operation process, the main control CPU 72 executes the special prize opening closing process again through the execution of the special prize opening closing process, and goes through the above steps S5401 to S5413 (No) to step S5416. Step S5408 is repeatedly executed. Thereby, the opening / closing operation of the variable prize device 30 is repeatedly executed until the actual number of times of opening reaches the set number of times of opening (2 times).

  When the actual number of times of opening at the small hit reaches the set number of times of opening (step S5413: Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5414.

  Step S5414, Step S5412: In this case, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination to the end process when the release counter is reset (= 0).

  Step S5408: Then, the main control CPU 72 resets the winning ball counter and returns to the variable winning device management process. As a result, when the main control CPU 72 next executes the variable winning device management process, the end process is selected this time.

〔End processing〕
FIG. 41 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of termination processing. This end process is for preparing conditions for ending the operation of the variable prize apparatus 30. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S5502: The main control CPU 72 confirms whether or not the value of the big hit flag (01H) is set, and if the value of the big hit flag is set (Yes), the main control CPU 72 next executes step S5503. To do.

  Step S5503, Step S5504: In this case, the main control CPU 72 resets the big hit flag (00H). As a result, the big hit gaming state ends on the control processing of the main control CPU 72. In addition, the main control CPU 72 deletes “big hit” from the internal state flag and declares the end of the major role as the internal state in the control processing. Thereby, the main control CPU 72 resets the continuous operation number status value. When these procedures are executed, the main control CPU 72 turns off the jackpot type display lamps 38a, 38b and the like in the subsequent continuous operation number display setting process (step S1240 in FIG. 36).

  Step S5506: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value (01H) of the probability variation function operation flag is set. This flag is set in the big hit other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 28) during the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing.

  Step S5507: When the value of the probability variation function activation flag is set (step S5506: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the number cut function activation flag corresponding to the probability variation function.

  Step S5508: The main control CPU 72 sets the number of probability fluctuations (for example, about 10,000). The set value of the probability variation number is stored, for example, in the probability variation counter area of the RAM 76 and becomes the above-described number cut counter value. The probability variation number set here is the upper limit number of times that the variation of the special symbol (internal lottery) is performed in a high probability state in the subsequent games. However, if a huge number of times such as 10,000 is set as described above, there is almost no chance that the non-winning will continue so far (the winning probability at the time of high probability is, for example, 1/39 to 1/39) The degree of probability) will continue until the next winning. On the other hand, when a substantial upper limit is set in the high probability state, the probability variation number is set to a realistic number (for example, about 10 times) (so-called number cut probability change). If the value of the probability variation function activation flag is not set (step S5506: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute steps S5507 and S5508.

  Step S5510: Next, the main control CPU 72 checks whether or not the value of the time reduction function operation flag (01H) is set. This flag is also set in the big hit other setting process (step S2414 in FIG. 28) during the previous special symbol fluctuation pre-processing.

  Step S5511: When the value of the variable time shortening function operation flag is set (step S5510: Yes), the main control CPU 72 sets the count cut function operating flag corresponding to the variable time shortening function.

  Step S5512: Next, the main control CPU 72 sets the number of time reductions (for example, about 100 times or about 10,000 times). The value of the set time reduction count is stored in the time count area of the RAM 76 as described above. The number of times of time reduction set here is the upper limit number of times to shorten the variation time of the special symbol in subsequent games. If the value of the time shortening function operation flag is not set (step S5510: No), the main control CPU 72 does not execute steps S5511, S5512.

  Step S5514: The main control CPU 72 generates a state designation command based on various flags. Specifically, a state designation command representing “normal” is generated as the gaming state when the big hit flag is reset or the big game ends. If the high-probability state function activation flag is set, a state designation command indicating “high probability” is generated as the internal state, and if the time reduction function activation flag is set, the internal state is “reduced time”. A state designation command representing “medium” is generated. These state designation commands are transmitted to the effect control device 124 in the effect control output process.

  The procedure so far is a big hit, but in the case of a big hit (step S5502: No), the following procedure is executed.

  Steps S5520 and S5522: In the case of a small hit, the main control CPU 72 resets the value of the small hit flag (00H) and deletes “small hit” from the internal state flag. In the case of small hits, the internal condition device does not operate in particular, so such a procedure is merely for the purpose of erasing the flag.

  Step S5516: In any case, after the above procedure, the main control CPU 72 sets the next jump destination in the special winning opening opening pattern setting process.

  Step S5518: The main control CPU 72 sets the jump destination in the execution selection process (step S1000 in FIG. 27) in the special symbol game process to the special symbol change pre-process. When the above procedure is completed, the main control CPU 72 returns to the variable winning device management process.

[Example of production image]
Next, the effect image actually displayed on the liquid crystal display 42 in the pachinko machine 1 will be described with some examples. As described above, when the jackpot internal lottery is performed in the pachinko machine 1, the variation pattern number (variation pattern and variation time) is uniquely determined under the control of the main control CPU 72, and the first special is based on the result. Fluctuation display is performed using symbols and second special symbols (symbol display means). However, as described above, the first special symbol and the second special symbol itself are lighted and blinked by 7-segment LEDs, so that they have poor appeal. Therefore, in the pachinko machine 1, the variable display effect using the effect symbol is performed as described above. The variation display effect is performed based on the variation pattern command transmitted from the main control CPU 72, while the prefetching notice effect is performed based on the variation pattern prefetch information command.

  In the present embodiment, the logo display body 40m and the memory display bodies 41a to 41h are installed adjacent to the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the logo display body 40m and the memory display bodies 41a to 41h are liquid crystals. An effect operation can be performed in cooperation with the display 42. In particular, the total of eight memory display bodies 41a to 41h are used for the effect of, for example, transmitting the total memory number obtained by adding the current first special symbol working memory number and the second special symbol working memory number to the player in an easily understandable manner. It is done. The logo display body 40m and the memory display bodies 41a to 41h are also used when executing the special zone effect (special period effect) when the total storage number reaches a specified number (for example, 8).

  The effect designs include, for example, a left effect symbol, a middle effect symbol, and a right effect symbol, which are displayed side by side on the left, middle, and right on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (see FIG. 1). ). Each effect design is a design of a picture card with a character attached together with the numbers “1” to “9”, for example. Note that the left, middle, and right effect symbols potentially constitute symbol sequences in which the numbers are arranged in descending order of “9” to “1”. Such a symbol sequence is variably displayed so as to flow (scroll) in the vertical direction in the left region, middle region, and right region on the screen. Further, the medium effect symbol is shown in a size slightly smaller than the left and right effect symbols.

  FIG. 42 is a continuous diagram showing an example of the effect image corresponding to the change display and stop display of the special symbol. In addition, here, an example of the rendering operation corresponding to the total stored number performed using the eight memory display bodies 41a to 41h is also shown. In the following drawings, the reference numerals of the liquid crystal display 42, the logo display body 40m, and the memory display bodies 41a to 41h are omitted in order to prevent complication of the drawings. Further, the memory display bodies 41a to 41h are shown in a state where they are all stood up in order to improve the visibility, but may change to a fallen state in an actual performance.

  The effect image represents an example of a change display effect and a stop display effect that are performed using the effect symbol with respect to the variation of the special symbol at the time of non-winning. This variable display effect is performed between the start of the variable display of the special symbol (here, the first special symbol, but may be the second special symbol) and the stop display (including the fixed stop). It corresponds to a series of productions. The stop display effect is an effect that represents that the special symbol is stopped and displayed and the result of the internal lottery at that time is a combination of the effect symbols.

  In addition, for the eight memory display bodies 41a to 41h, an example of the effect operation corresponding to the total memory number that increases or decreases during the game is shown. Eight memory display bodies 41a-41h can perform the production | presentation operation | movement corresponding to the present total memory number (1-8), for example by changing the lighting number according to a total memory number. In addition, the eight memory display bodies 41a-41h can represent that there is no working memory number about any of a 1st special symbol or a 2nd special symbol by making these all into a light extinction state.

  Here, before explaining the specific contents of the control processing, the basic flow of the change display effect and stop display effect for each change employed in the present embodiment will be described. An example of the presentation operation corresponding to the increase / decrease change of the total memory number during the game will also be described.

[Before change display]
In FIG. 42 (A): For example, in a state before the first special symbol starts to fluctuate (a state in which the demonstration effect is not being performed), a row of three effect symbols is displayed large on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42. ing. At this time, in accordance with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the effect symbol is also stopped.

  For the memory number effect device unit 41, for example, by turning on the four memory display bodies 41a, 41b, 41c, 41d corresponding to the numbers “1” to “4” (the others are turned off), the current total It can be transmitted to the player that the number of memories is “4”. In other words, the memory display bodies 41a to 41h having a total of eight are lit with the number of operating memories of the first special symbol and the second special symbol (the first special symbol operating memory lamp 34a and the second special symbol operating memory lamp 35a). This number represents the total number of display), and the number of lights is increased or decreased in conjunction with the change in the number of working memories during the game.

  Further, the eight memory display bodies 41a to 41h are lit and displayed in the order in which the operation memory of the first special symbol or the operation memory of the second special symbol is acquired, and the lighting positions are not particularly different for each symbol. That is, in the example of FIG. 42A, the four memory display bodies 41a, 41b, 41c, and 41d are lit and displayed. In this case, for example, the operation memory of the first special symbol and the second special symbol are alternately displayed. This means that two pieces have been acquired (stored) in total up to four pieces (total stored number display effect execution means). Although not specifically shown here, the memory display elements 41a to 41a that correspond to the operation memory of the first special symbol and the memory corresponding to the operation memory of the second special symbol in the total memory number are mutually connected. A difference may be provided in the lighting color of 41h.

  Although not shown, it is assumed that the fourth symbol is displayed at the lower part of the screen of the liquid crystal display 42, for example, during the variation display of the effect symbol. The fourth symbol is a “fourth effect symbol” that follows the left, middle, and right effect symbols, and is displayed in a variable manner in synchronism with the effect symbol. Note that the fourth symbol is simply a simple mark (for example, a “□” figure) with a color, and for example, a variable display can be expressed by changing its display color. The fourth symbol is displayed corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol, respectively.

  In the stop display state at the time of disconnection, the fourth symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode corresponding to the disconnection (for example, white display color). This is to objectively clarify that the stop display effect is correctly performed and the pachinko machine 1 is operating normally. Therefore, if the result of the internal lottery is actually “7 round jackpot” or “16 round jackpot” instead of “out of”, the 4th pattern is displayed in a manner corresponding to them (for example, red display color or green display color). Is stopped.

[Variable display production start]
42 (B): For example, in synchronization with the start of the change of the first special symbol, the change display effect is started by the scroll change of the three symbol rows on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 (the symbol effect). Execution means). In other words, in synchronization with the start of fluctuation of the first special symbol, the display of the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol is scrolled (flowed) in the vertical direction on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 so as to change the display. Production begins.

  As for the stored number effect device unit 41, the total stored number is decreased by one before the start of the change, and the memory display body 41d representing the number “4” is changed to the unlit state. After the start of fluctuation, the three memory display bodies 41a, 41b and 41c representing the numbers "1" to "3" are lit up. Thereby, it can be easily communicated to the player that “the total number of memories has been consumed (decreased) with the start of fluctuation”.

  Although not particularly shown here, when the total storage number decreases due to the start of fluctuation, for example, the memory display 41a representing the number “1” is first turned off, and the remaining numbers “2” to “4”. After the lighting states of the memory display bodies 41b, 41c, and 41d representing are maintained for a moment (for example, 0.5 seconds), the memory display bodies 41b and 41c representing the numbers “2”, “3”, and “4”, respectively. , 41d are sequentially turned off, and the display operation is performed such that the memory display bodies 41a, 41b, and 41c representing the numbers “1”, “2”, and “3” are sequentially lit and displayed. It is good as well. As a result, it is possible to visually convey to the player that “the oldest working memory has been consumed for the variable display, and the remaining working memory has been moved (shifted) in the order of memory”. it can.

  In the figure, the change display of the effect symbol is simply indicated by a downward arrow. Although not shown here, during the variable display, each effect symbol is displayed in a transparent state (transparent display), and at this time, an image (background image) serving as the background of the effect symbol is displayed in the display screen. It is assumed that it is displayed in a state where it can be easily seen. Such a background image can be selected according to the stay mode in the production. The stay mode is classified into, for example, “normal mode” corresponding to the normal gaming state, “high-accuracy mode” corresponding to the “high probability state”, “time reduction (chance) mode” corresponding to the “time reduction state”, and the like. be able to. Although not specifically shown here, a mode in which a notice effect is performed by displaying an image of a character, an item, or the like on the display screen, for example, may be used.

[Reach condition occurs]
42 (C): For example, when a certain amount of time (about half of the fluctuation time) has elapsed, the left effect design first stops changing, and after a short time (for example, 1-2 seconds later), the right effect design is followed. The effect that stops the fluctuation is performed. In this example, the left effect symbol and the right effect symbol representing the number “6” are stopped at the middle position of the screen. Note that the medium effect design is still changing. As a result, the effect symbol is displayed as a combination of “6” − (during change) − “6”, and the “reach state” occurs in the effect.

[Total memory increase effect]
In addition, since game balls are continuously launched during this time, winning to the right start winning opening 26 and the variable start winning apparatus 28 occurs alternately through the distribution device 200, for example, the total number of working memories increases by two. Suppose that it changes to five. In this case, two memory display bodies 41d and 41e are newly lit and displayed, and an effect indicating that the total memory number has increased to five (total memory number increasing effect) is performed. That is, in this example, two memory display bodies 41d and 41e corresponding to the numbers “4” and “5” are additionally lit.

[Reach production]
In FIG. 42 (D): After the reach state occurs, an effect is performed as if the medium effect symbol slowly flows from the numbers “3” to “4” and then “5”. In addition, with respect to the left and right effect symbols that are tempered, for example, the effect of emitting an aura image (displaying an image similar to a flame) from the characters of each effect symbol is performed. At this time, depending on the color of the aura (blue, yellow, green, red, gold, iridescent, etc.), the reliability of this change (expectation of jackpot; the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed in a winning manner. It is also possible to suggest a high or low possibility of being made. However, when the “normal reach fluctuation pattern (at the time of loss)” is selected as the current fluctuation pattern, the current fluctuation does not develop into a reach effect (super reach effect or the like) with higher expectation.

[Total memory increase effect]
In any case, when “normal reach fluctuation pattern” is selected as the current fluctuation pattern, a suitable fluctuation time (for example, about 20 seconds to 25 seconds) is set for executing the reach effect. Since the game ball is continuously launched during this time, winning to the right start winning port 26 and the variable start winning device 28 occurs alternately through the distribution device 200, for example, the total number of operating memories is one more. It has increased to 6 pieces. As a result, a new memory display 41f corresponding to the number “6” is additionally lit and displayed, and an effect indicating that the total memory count has increased to 6 (total memory count increasing effect) is performed. ing.

[Stop display effect (result display effect)]
In FIG. 42 (E): The end of the fluctuation time is approached, and the medium effect symbol stops changing. In this example, the effect symbol representing the number “6” passes through the middle position (tempered line) of the display screen and falls to the bottom of the screen, and the medium effect symbol representing the numeral “7” is stopped at the middle position. Is displayed. In this case, the combination of the production symbols is “6”-“7”-“6” break (reach break), and unfortunately, this change expresses on the production that it was not a big hit. Yes.

[Total memory increase effect]
Further, as the game balls are continuously launched, the total memory number is further increased by 1 and changed to 7. Thereby, one more memory display body 41g corresponding to the number “7” is additionally lit and displayed, and an effect indicating that the total memory number has increased to seven (total memory number increasing effect) is performed. . In this example, it is understood that the memory display bodies 41a to 41g corresponding to the numbers “1” to “7” are turned on, and only the memory display body 41h corresponding to the number “8” is in the off state.

[Special zone production (Special period production)]
FIG. 43 and FIG. 44 are continuous diagrams showing a series of flows from before execution of an example of an effect (special zone effect) that is executed on the condition that the total stored number has reached a specified number (for example, 8). is there. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the flow of production.

[Increased memory number]
FIG. 43 (F): For example, a case is assumed in which the total number of memories is increased to 7 (before the specified number) during the reach effect shown in FIG. 42 (outlier normal reach effect). In this case, the lighting states of the memory display bodies 41a to 41g corresponding to the numbers “1” to “7” are emphasized more than before (for example, the luminance is increased, the lighting color is changed), and an effect that gives a noticeable impression is obtained. Executed. In addition to the scroll display of the left, middle, and right effects symbols during the variable display, for example, a memory display that displays the number “8” by displaying a marker (a group of Δ marks) at the right end portion of the display screen. An effect that draws attention to the body 41h is executed. The effect of this mode is to transmit a message “Let's increase the total memory number to 8” to the player, and to reconfirm the consciousness of launching the game ball (increase the memory number) Promotional production). As a result, the player can have a sense of expectation that “something may happen if one more is won”, and can stimulate a search for the game.

[Direction when total memory reaches 8]
In FIG. 43 (G): When the total storage number reaches a specified number (for example, 8), all the memory display bodies 41a to 41h are turned on, and the logo display body 40m is also turned on. Is done. In the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, for example, the background image is darkened (blacked out), and an effect is given as if light is emitted from the position of the logo display body 40m. At this time, the entire eight memory display bodies 41a to 41h emit strong light together with the logo display body 40m. By performing such an aspect of the effect (the effect when the specified number is reached), the player is given a certain sense of achievement that “the total number of memories has been increased to the maximum”, and thereafter It can attract interest in the outcome.

  43 (H): After that, for example, the first special symbol (or the second special symbol) is stopped and displayed, so that the stop display effect by the effect symbol is performed in the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42. . Further, the light emission operation of the logo display body 40m and the eight memory display bodies 41a to 41h is continued.

[Startable / unusable effect (introduction)]
In FIG. 43, (I): In the first change after the total stored number reaches a specified number (for example, 8) (first change made by consuming the working memory first), the start / impossibility effect at the beginning of the change Is executed. This start / impossibility effect is also a precursor of a special zone effect (special period effect) executed within a period (special period) up to the eighth change from here.
Specifically, for example, in the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, a heart-shaped object (object as an image display) appears from a total of eight memory display bodies 41a to 41h, and each draws a thread. As a result, eight heart-shaped objects are displayed in a ring shape while flying to the center of the screen. At this time, for example, at the upper left corner position of the display screen, a variable display effect is performed using three reduced effect symbols. In addition, the fourth symbol (not shown) is also variably displayed.

[Continuation of introduction part: See FIG. 44]
44 (J): During the same fluctuation as above (first fluctuation after reaching the specified number), eight heart-shaped objects arranged in a ring shape on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 circulate around. The state is displayed. Note that the three effect symbols that have been continuously reduced are being displayed in a variable manner (the same applies to the fourth symbol).

  In FIG. 44 (K): When the fluctuation time approaches the middle period, an image representing the appearance of the logo display body 40m appears inside the eight heart-shaped objects that form a ring, and the whole of these images increases in brightness. Is displayed. At this stage, for example, among the three reduced effect symbols, the variation of the left effect symbol is stopped (the other two are changing).

[Branch by main part]
After this, the production shifts from the production introduction part to the main part, and a branch occurs in the production flow. Of these, one is a “zone entry success production” and the other is a “zone entry failure production”. In either case, for example, the current variation time (the first variation after reaching the specified number) is executed from the middle to the last. Each will be described below.

[Zone entry success production]
(L) in FIG. 44: First, “zone entry success production” will be described. In the “zone entry success production”, the eight heart-shaped objects that have circulated until then stop and decorate the periphery of the image of the logo display body 40m to form a certain design (for example, an emblem). . Here, such a design is referred to as a “logo emblem”. In the display screen, the character information of “complete” is displayed with the “logo emblem” in between, and a radial ray centered on the “logo emblem” is displayed on the back. By executing such an aspect of the production, the player is strongly impressed by the fact that “the logo emblem has been successfully completed on the production”, and further stimulates the exploration of the subsequent flow. Can do.

[Zone entry failure production]
In FIG. 44 (M): In the other “zone entry failure production”, the eight heart-shaped objects that have been around have disappeared from the display screen, and the image of the logo display 41m has also disappeared. Instead, a heart-shaped figure that has been lost to two is displayed larger. In the display screen, character information of “failure” is largely displayed across the “torn heart shape figure”. By executing such an effect, the player is made aware that “the logo emblem could not be completed on the effect (failed)”, and a new motivation for the next success Can be made. In this case, the special zone effect is not executed after this, and the flow of the large effect ends here.

  On the other hand, when the above “zone entry success production” is executed, the following special zone production is started. However, in terms of control, if it is decided to execute the special zone effect internally, the “zone entry success effect” is executed, and conversely, if it is decided not to execute the special zone effect, The “rush failure production” will be executed.

[Special zone production (Special period production)]
FIG. 45 is a continuous diagram showing an example of a special zone effect performed during a special symbol variation display and a stop display over a plurality of times. It should be noted that the logo display body 41m is continuously lit and displayed during the special zone production by executing the “zone entry success production”.

  45 (i): For example, at the time of the current fluctuation stop (at the first fluctuation stop after reaching the specified number), for example, a female character is displayed up in the display screen, and an effect of showing a smiling expression is performed. . In addition, title information of “Eight Zone BLUE rush” is displayed in the display screen. By such an effect, it is possible to give a clear impression to the player that “the player has entered a special zone (eight zone BLUE) on the effect” and further attracts interest in the subsequent game. it can. Further, “BLUE” in the title is an additional element corresponding to “reliability (ranking) of special zone effect”, and in this embodiment, for example, “BLUE (blue)” → “GREEN (green)” → High reliability is expressed in the order of “RED (red)” → “GOLD (gold)”. The higher the reliability, the higher the possibility that a big hit will be obtained by any variation during the special zone production. In this example, since the additional element in the title is “BLUE (blue)”, the reliability of the special zone effect is the lowest. In the present embodiment, as the number of fluctuations proceeds thereafter, the “reliability of special zone effect” ranks up as “BLUE (blue)” → “GREEN (green)” → “RED (red)”. In some cases, even if the first rank is the lowest (BLUE), the degree of expectation during the “special zone effect” can be made difficult to be interrupted.

[After the second change]
In FIG. 45, (ii): A special frame image (in this example, a floral border) is displayed, for example, on the periphery (four sides) of the display screen from the second time onward after the specified number is reached. By displaying such a frame image, it is possible to clearly make the player aware that “the special zone is being produced”. At this time, the display mode of the frame image (particularly the display color) is “BLUE (blue)”, “GREEN (green)”, “RED (red)”, “GOLD” according to the “reliability of special zone effect”. When the reliability is ranked up, the display color of the frame image changes accordingly. Due to the difference in the display mode of the frame image, it is possible to intuitively suggest the degree of possibility (reliability) that a big hit is caused by any of the maximum seven variations thereafter. In addition, since the total stored number has decreased to 6 with the start of fluctuation, an effect (total stored number decreasing effect) is performed in which the number of lighting of the memory display body 41 is also decreased to 6.

[Abbreviated fluctuation according to the total number of memories]
45 (iii), (iv): Since the second fluctuation after reaching the specified number is a normal fluctuation (usually a deviation fluctuation pattern), a large production movement (reach notice etc.) does not occur here. The effect symbol stops within the shortened variation time (first shortened variation time) as shown in FIG. As for the subsequent fluctuations, when the fluctuation pattern normally corresponds to the deviation fluctuation pattern, similarly, the fluctuation display effect and the stop display effect that are shortened according to the total stored number are performed.

[When jackpot reach changes]
Next, FIG. 46 is a continuous diagram showing the flow of reach production (at the time of big hit) executed during the special zone production. In this example, among the working memories included in the prescribed number (for example, 8) as the total memory number, for example, the third working memory in the memory order corresponds to the winning of “16 round probability variation symbol”. However, the working memory corresponding to the winning may be the first or second (or fourth or later).

  In the following reach production, after the first special symbol display device 34 (or the second special symbol display device 35 may be used), the first special symbol is “16 round probability variation symbol” after the variation display by the variation pattern at the time of the big hit. (E.g. 7-segment LED “self”, “yo”, “mouth”, “巳”, “F”, “E”, “L”, “Γ”, etc.) The In addition, in FIG. 46, each effect design is simplified and shown only as a number. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the flow of production.

[Variable display effects]
46 (A): Fluctuating display effects of the left effect symbol, the middle effect symbol, and the right effect symbol on the screen of the liquid crystal display 42 substantially in synchronization with the start of the change of the first special symbol (or the second special symbol). The point where is started is the same as before. However, in order to clearly indicate that the current state is “during special zone production”, the frame image is continuously displayed on the periphery of the display screen. In addition, although not shown here, for example, a background image unique to “during special zone production” is displayed at this time.

  In addition, since the total number of operating memories has decreased to two, the two memory display bodies 41a and 41b representing the numbers “1” and “2” are lit on, and the other memory display bodies 41c to 41h. Is turned off, but the logo display body 40m is turned on.

[Decoration notice effect]
(B) in FIG. 46: Next, at a relatively early stage of the variable display effect, the entire display screen is blacked out, and an image effect is performed as if a light beam is emitted from the logo display 40m.
46 (C): Then, from the left and right outer sides of the display screen, a decorative body that imitates the wings of birds appears, and from the lower part of the display screen, an ornamental body that imitates the neck of birds appears. As a whole, a decorative body representing the figure of birds spreading their wings is completed. In accordance with the operation of such a decorative body, on the display screen, an image effect is performed as if radial rays are emitted from behind. Such an effect can give a visual impact to the player and improve the expectation of the flow of the subsequent variable display effect. The decorative body can be operated using the decorative body motor 402 described above. Further, the entire decorative body by the decorative body lamp 404 emits light.

[Reach condition occurs]
46 (D), (E): The decorative body that has appeared returns to the initial storage position and is no longer visible, and the right effect symbol stops following the stop of the left effect symbol in the display screen. At this time, a reach state of “7” − (fluctuating) − “7” occurs in the combination of effect symbols, and an effect of outputting a sound such as “reach!” Is performed. In addition, in this case, since the number “7” is aligned, it becomes a big hit, so it is possible to make the player have various tensions such as “probability or loss”, as well as whether or not the lottery is a success. .

[Preliminary notice after reach occurs (first time)]
In FIG. 46 (F): Following the occurrence of the reach state, for example, a radial flash beam is displayed on the background of the scaled effect design, and the character information “chance!” Is displayed at the center position, and the reach is generated. Later notice effect (first) is performed. By executing such a visually noticeable announcement effect after the occurrence of reach, it is possible to obtain an effect of making the player have a greater sense of expectation.

[Progress of reach production]
In FIG. 46 (G): Following the announcement effect after the first reach, for example, images representing the numbers “2” to “8” are displayed in a three-dimensional column on the screen. There is an effect in which numerical images are erased from the screen in the order of “2”, “3”, “4”. Such an effect is performed for the purpose of suggesting (impliciting) or reminding the player that the number “7” remains without being erased. If the number “5” is erased and “6” remains in front of the screen, it is “out of”. If the number “7” is erased, it is “out of”, but the number “6”. ”Is erased, and the number“ 7 ”remains in front of the screen without being erased, it means“ probable big hit ”. Therefore, during this time, the numbers “2”, “3”, “4”,... Are erased in order, and as the number “6” approaches, the player's tension and expectations The feeling will also increase. After this, for example, if up to the number “5” is erased on the screen, the next time the number “6” is finally erased, the possibility of a “probable big hit” is finally increased. A feeling increases at a stretch.

[Preliminary notice after the occurrence of reach (second time)]
In FIG. 46 (H): When the reach production is approaching the final stage, the image of the character is suddenly displayed on the screen as if it was split into a close-up, and the content that the character emits some dialogue (or silently) (The content may be that of smiling). At this time, for example, the content of the reach effect is a development that “if the number“ 6 ”is deleted, the probability of a probable big hit of“ 7 ”-“ 7 ”-“ 7 ”increases” ”. Therefore, by causing a character image to appear greatly at this timing, an effect of giving the player a sense of expectation that “may be a big hit” is obtained.

[Stop display effect (result display effect)]
In FIG. 46, (I): The last medium effect symbol stops substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. In this example, the winning symbol internally corresponds to “16-round probability variation symbol”, so the effect symbol (the shape is a heart shape) representing the number “7” on the effect is stopped and displayed at the center of the screen. ing.

  In FIG. 46 (J): Then, for example, a confirmed stop display is also performed for the stop display effect as the effect symbol substantially in synchronization with the confirmed stop display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. The effect design fixed stop display is performed, for example, in a state where the left, middle, and right effect symbols are restored to their initial sizes. By performing such confirmation stop display, the player can be informed that the final winning type has been confirmed in the production. In this case, the fourth symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, red display color) corresponding to “15 rounds probable big hit”.

  Here, the case of “16 round probability variation” is taken as an example, but if the result of the internal lottery is the above “16 round normal symbol”, for example, the reach is represented by a production symbol representing the number “6”, etc. A situation occurs, and after the reach production, the left, middle, and right production symbols are stopped and displayed in a big hit mode composed of the same kind of combinations (for example, “6”-“6”-“6”). In this case, the fourth symbol is stopped and displayed in a mode (for example, green display color) corresponding to “16 round normal symbol”.

  In addition, if the result of the internal lottery is non-winning, the first special symbol or the second special symbol is stopped and displayed as the off symbol, so that the staging display effect is also performed in a manner of deviation in the same manner. Execution means). In this case, by displaying the numbers “6” and “8” other than “7” in the center of the screen, unfortunately, an effect that informs that the current change has not been a big hit is performed. Such an effect is executed as an “out of reach reach effect”. Even in this case, since the fluctuation pattern corresponds to, for example, the “super-reach fluctuation pattern at the time of loss”, the specific reach fluctuation occurs during the special zone effect.

[Summary of special zone production]
As described above, after the total stored number reaches a specified number (for example, 8), the special zone effect is started through the above-mentioned successful effect ((L) in FIG. 44). It is possible to notify the player in advance that a specific reach effect (a big hit reach effect or a super-reach effect at the time of losing) will occur during the change of the game. Thereby, a player's expectation can be maintained during the special zone effect, and a tension can be maintained during the game (fluctuation) until the specific reach effect occurs.

  Further, the effect (FIGS. 43 and 44) for determining whether or not such a special zone effect is started is executed on the condition that the total stored number has reached a specified number (for example, 8). , Make the player aware that “the total number of memories will be a specified number (for example, 8)” from the normal game, and “the total number of memories to a specified number (for example, 8) in order to see special zone effects” The motivation of “Let's increase” can be given.

  The special zone effects described above have a “hit fluctuation”, “weak / strong super reach”, “story reach” when the total memory reaches a specified number (for example, 8). It can be executed based on the existence of a specific reach variation pattern such as. In the present embodiment, the reach group determination random number currently stored in action is determined in advance by pre-reading control by the main control CPU 72 (FIG. 23: effect determination processing at the time of acquisition). Therefore, until the specific variation time (seconds) is set. Even without prefetching, the result of prefetching “reach type” can be transmitted to the effect control device 124 as a variation pattern prefetch information command. In response to this, in the production control device 124, when there are specific reach fluctuation patterns such as “hit fluctuation”, “weak / strong super-reach system”, “story reach system”, etc. in the working memory of the specified number, It is possible to control the execution of the special zone effect as a “special period”, which is a period until the change in which the specific reach fluctuation pattern is selected.

  On the other hand, even if the total memory number reaches the specified number (for example, 8), the specific reach such as “Fluctuation”, “Weak / Strong Super Reach”, “Story Reach” etc. When there is no variation pattern, the special zone effect cannot be executed in this embodiment. In this case, as a benefit on the effect for increasing the total memory number to a specified number (for example, 8), for example, It is supposed to perform the production.

[Direction bonus production]
FIG. 47 is a continuous diagram showing a flow of an effect example executed when the special zone effect cannot be started even when the total stored number reaches a specified number (for example, 8). Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the flow of an example of an effect.

[Startable / unusable effect (introduction)]
In FIG. 47 (A): Even when there is no specific reach fluctuation pattern such as “hit fluctuation”, “weak / strong super reach system”, “story reach system”, etc. in the working memory, the total memory number is the specified number ( For example, in the first change after reaching 8), the start availability effect is executed at the beginning of the change. The production mode in this case is the same as when the specific reach variation pattern exists in the working memory ((I) in FIG. 43). The three reduced effect symbols are variably displayed at the upper left corner position in the display screen (the same applies to the fourth symbol).

  47 (B): Eight heart-shaped objects arranged in a ring shape in the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 are swirled during the same fluctuation as above (the first fluctuation after reaching the specified number). The state of gathering in one place is displayed. Note that the three reduced effect symbols are being displayed in a variable manner (the same applies to the fourth symbol).

  (C) in FIG. 47: Subsequently, a state in which all eight heart-shaped objects circulate in a state where they are gathered in one place is displayed.

  In FIG. 47 (D): The eight heart-shaped objects that have been orbiting in one place so far disappear from the display screen, and a heart-shaped figure is displayed in a large size instead. In the display screen, the character information “EZ point 2000” is displayed in the “heart shape graphic”, and the character information “GET!” Is displayed beside it. By executing such an effect, the player was made aware that “some point was given on the effect” and increased the total number of memories to a specified number (for example, 8). You can feel a sense of accomplishment. In this case, the number of points given so far is displayed cumulatively at the lower left corner position in the display screen. Note that the “points” given here are provided to the player as points for production. Such “points” are read by an information communication terminal (such as a mobile phone) held by the player, for example, and become information that can be personally managed (for example, stored on a server) by the player.

[Game Flow]
FIG. 48 is a game flow diagram showing the flow of production that occurs on the condition that the total stored number has reached the specified number. Hereinafter, the game flow realized in this embodiment will be described in order.

[G01: Check total memory number]
During a normal game, the condition whether or not the total stored number of the first special symbol working memory number and the second special symbol working memory number has reached a specified number (for example, 8) is constantly confirmed. This confirmation is continuously repeated until the total storage number reaches a specified number (for example, 8) (No).

[G02: When the total number of memories reaches the specified number]
When the total stored number reaches a specified number (for example, 8) (G01: Yes), for example, an effect of generating a special winning sound is performed on the effect. Thereby, it is possible to make the player aware of “the total number of memories has reached the prescribed number” and “whether or not to enter the special zone effect”.

[G03: Start of fluctuation after reaching the specified number]
After the total memory number reaches a specified number (for example, 8), the variable display is started using the 8 oldest (oldest) working memory.

[G04: Conditional branch]
For the remaining seven working memories, excluding the working memory consumed in the first fluctuation, the subsequent effects depending on whether the special-reading pre-reading information command or the variation pattern pre-reading information command satisfies the inrush condition of the special zone effect. The flow of is different. The rush conditions are, for example, (1) that the “predictive symbol type” is included in the pre-read information command for each special figure, and (2) “win fluctuation” or “weak / strong super reach system” in the fluctuation pattern pre-read information command, “Reach type” representing “story reach” or the like is included.

[G05, G06: When the entry conditions are satisfied]
When the special zone production entry condition is satisfied (G04: Yes), the success production is executed through the eight zone development preparation production (rush production), and the production enters the eight zone as it is (the special zone production start). The eight zone development preparation effect here corresponds to the effect shown in FIGS. 43, 44, etc., and the successful effect corresponds to the effect (L) in FIG. The eight zone corresponds to the special zone effect (FIG. 45). Further, at this time, the reliability (ranking) at the time of entering the eight zone differs depending on the contents of the special chart-specific prefetch information command or the variation pattern prefetch information command.

[G07, G08: Big hit]
When there is a big hit first determination result in the working memory, a big hit reach variation effect (FIG. 46) is generated at the time of the fluctuation corresponding to the first determination result, and then the big hit state (special game state) is entered.

[G09: When disconnected]
On the other hand, if there is a predetermination result (variation pattern pre-reading information command) of the specific deviation reach fluctuation pattern in the working memory, the special deviation production effect occurs at the time of the fluctuation corresponding to the previous judgment result, and the special zone production ends. To do. Note that, in the non-specific reach variation effect, for example, in FIG. 46 (I) and (J), the medium effect symbol is other than “7”.

[G10, G11: When entry conditions are not satisfied]
On the other hand, if the entry conditions for special zone production are not satisfied (G04: No), it will occur in the same manner up to the introduction of Eight zone development preparation production (entry production), but in subsequent productions, Eight zone entry failure will occur. It becomes. Eight zone entry failure here corresponds to the effect shown in (M) of FIG. In this case, the special zone effect is ended without being started (however, the normal game itself can be continued).

[G12, G13: When entry conditions are not satisfied]
Similarly, there is a pattern in which the entry condition for the special zone effect is not satisfied (G04: No), but there is a pattern that does not progress to the failure effect (G11) in the game flow. In this case, an effect of giving eight zone points on the effect is performed, and an effect added to the points acquired so far is performed (FIG. 47). In this case as well, the special zone effect is ended without being started (however, the normal game itself can be continued).

  As described above, in the present embodiment, it is understood that when the total memory number is increased to a specified number (for example, 8) during the normal game, the game flow thereafter is greatly developed and variously changed. Thereby, it is possible to keep the player always aware of “increasing the total memory number to a specified number (for example, 8)” from the normal game, and maintain the motivation for the game.

  In addition, when the total number of memories is increased to a specified number (for example, 8), an effect (special zone effect or point giving effect) related to the expected value of jackpot based on the result of the previous determination always occurs. The player can be given a special performance privilege (profit) for accumulating a large amount of working memory. As a result, it is possible to stir up the desire to further increase the total number of memories to a specified number (for example, 8), and to prevent a decrease in interest.

[Various adjustments accompanying transition to special zone production]
On the other hand, in the present embodiment, when the total number of memories reaches the specified number (eight), the eight zone development preparation effect (rush effect) is basically executed at the next first change. In order to execute the eight zone development preparation effect (rush effect), the “normal deviation variation (variation time 6.0 seconds)” is required for the first variation. However, since the actual fluctuation time depends on the fluctuation pattern (result of the fluctuation pattern determination process at the time of loss) performed at the first fluctuation, the first fluctuation is other than “normal deviation fluctuation (variation time 6.0 seconds)” When the variation pattern is designated, the eight zone development preparation effect (rush effect) cannot be executed in the first variation because of the relationship between the variation seconds (effect measure). Therefore, in order to execute the eight zone development preparation effect (rush effect) without difficulty in effect control, it is necessary to adjust the change time at the first change.

  In addition, when the transition to the special zone production is made after the eight zone development preparation production (inrush production), the special zone production is continued until the longest change of seven times, so the eight zone development preparation production (rush production) is executed. When some pre-reading effects have occurred before, it is difficult to provide relevance, consistency, and continuity between such pre-reading effects and special zone effects. For example, a case where an effect of changing the mode of one of the memory display bodies 41a to 41g (an effect of changing to a special lighting color) has occurred as a pre-reading effect before the execution of the eight zone development preparation effect (rush effect). Suppose. In this case, when performing the eight zone development preparation effect (inrush effect) when the total number of working memories reaches the specified number (eight), the memory display bodies 41a to 41h are inconsistent with the effect if the special lighting color remains. Will occur.

  From the above circumstances, in the present embodiment, in the first change in which the eight zone development preparation effect (inrush effect) is executed, whether or not the execution of the effect based on the change time is determined on the control, and if it is determined to be executable, The execution of the development preparation effect (rush effect) is controlled. When an eight zone development preparation effect (inrush effect) is actually executed, other pre-read effects that have been executed up to that point are canceled to prevent production inconsistencies.

  Hereinafter, an example of a control method that specifically realizes an effect in the present embodiment will be described. Progressive effects such as the above-mentioned variable display effects, reach effects, pre-reach notice effects, memory count display effects, pre-read notice effects, mode transition effects linked to them, eight zone development preparation effects (inrush effects), special zones The production (eight zone production), the point grant production, etc. are all controlled through the following control processing. Further, through the following description, a control method for adjusting the variation time associated with the execution of the eight zone development preparation effect (rush effect) and canceling other prefetch effects will be described.

[Production control processing]
FIG. 49 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the effect control process executed by the effect control CPU 126. This effect control process is executed, for example, in a timer interrupt process (interrupt management process) separately from a reset start (main) process (not shown). The effect control CPU 126 generates a timer interrupt at a predetermined interrupt cycle (for example, a period of several tens of μs to several ms) during execution of the reset start process, and executes the timer interrupt process.

  The effect control process includes command reception process (step S400), zone effect management process (step S401), operation memory effect management process (step S402), effect symbol management process (step S403), display output process (step S404), lamp This includes a subroutine group of drive processing (step S406), acoustic drive processing (step S408), effect random number update processing (step S410), and other processing (step S412). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect control process will be described along each process.

  Step S400: In the command receiving process, the effect control CPU 126 receives an effect command transmitted from the main control CPU 72. The effect control CPU 126 analyzes the received commands and stores them in the command buffer area of the RAM 130 according to type. The command for the effect transmitted from the main control CPU 72 includes, for example, a special figure destination determination effect command, a (special symbol) effect command when the operating memory number increases, a (special symbol) effect command when the operating memory number decreases, and a special symbol. Pre-read information command, variation pattern pre-read information command, start opening winning tone control command, demonstration effect command, lottery result command, variation pattern command, variation start command, stop symbol command, symbol stop command, state designation command, number of rounds Command, error notification command, jackpot end effect command, and the like.

  Step S401: In the zone production management process, the production control CPU 126 determines whether or not the total stored number has reached a specified number (for example, 8), and manages the zone production flag on production according to the result. To do. The specific contents of the zone effect management process will be described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S402: In the operation memory effect management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls execution of the total memory number increase effect and the total memory number decrease effect using the memory display bodies 41a to 41h. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 may control execution of a memory number increase effect, a memory number decrease effect, and a prefetch notice effect using, for example, a marker image. The contents of the working memory effect management process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S403: In the effect symbol management process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the variable display effect and the result display effect using the effect symbols, and controls the effect contents during the opening / closing operation of the variable winning device 30. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects effect patterns of various notice effects (notice effect before reach occurrence, effect after reach, etc.). The contents of the effect symbol management process will be further described later with reference to another drawing.

  Step S404: In the display output process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) with basic control information of the effect contents (for example, the number of working memories of each of the first special symbol and the second special symbol). , An operation memory effect pattern number, a prefetch notice effect pattern number, a change effect pattern number, a change notice effect number, a background pattern number, etc.). Thereby, the effect display control device 144 (the display control CPU 146 and the VDP 152) controls the display operation by the liquid crystal display 42 based on the instructed effect content (effect executing means).

  Step S406: In the lamp driving process, the effect control CPU 126 outputs a control signal to the lamp driving circuit 132. In response to this, the lamp driving circuit 132 drives the various lamps 46, 48, 50, 52, the panel lamp 53, and the like (turns on or off, blinks, changes in luminance gradation, etc.) based on the control signal. The effect control CPU 126 outputs control signals related to the memory display bodies 41a to 41h, the logo display body 40m, the large rotary lamp 41, the decorative body, and the like to the lamp drive circuit 132. In response to this, the lamp driving circuit 132 turns on the logo display lamp 190 and the memory display lamp 192 based on the control signal, drives the memory display motor 196, operates the large rotating lamp 41, The decorative body motor 402 is operated, and the decorative body lamp 404 is turned on.

  Step S408: In the next sound drive process, the effect control CPU 126 sends the effect contents (for example, BGM, sound data, etc. during the variable display effect, during the reach effect, during the mode transition effect, during the jackpot effect) to the sound drive circuit 134. Instruct. Thereby, the sound according to the production content is output from the speakers 54, 55, and 56.

  Step S410: In the effect random number update process, the effect control CPU 126 updates various effect random numbers in the counter area of the RAM 130. The effect random numbers include, for example, a random number used for selecting a notice, a random number used for a normal background change lottery (effect lottery), a random number used for a zone entry lottery, and the like.

  Step S412: In other processing, for example, if the movable body for rendering is provided separately from the decorative body, the large rotating lamp 41, the memory display bodies 41a to 41h, the logo display body 40m, etc., the rendering control CPU 126 moves the movable body. A control signal is output to the driving IC. Although not shown in particular, the movable body is also operated by a driving source such as a solenoid or a stepping motor, and produces an effect in synchronization with the display of an image by the liquid crystal display 42 or independently. A driving source such as a solenoid or a stepping motor can also be connected to the panel electric decoration board 138 in FIG. 15, for example.

  Through the above-described effect control process, the effect control CPU 126 can comprehensively control the effect contents in the pachinko machine 1.

[Zone production management processing]
Next, the contents of the zone effect management process executed in the effect control process will be described. FIG. 50 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the zone effect management process.

  Step S800: First, the effect control CPU 126 checks whether or not the current total stored number has reached a specified number. This confirmation is made, for example, by a value (first special symbol working memory number) indicated by the first special symbol working memory number command received from the main control CPU 72 and a value (second second) indicated by the second special symbol working memory number command. It can be performed based on the special symbol working memory number). As a result, when the total stored number has reached the specified value (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S802.

  Step S802: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 checks whether the “zone effect flag” is “ON” (set). The value of the “zone effect flag” is stored in the flag area of the RAM 130, for example, and the effect control CPU 126 reads the address corresponding to the “zone effect flag” in the flag area and checks the value. If the “zone production flag” is not yet “ON” at this time (No), the production control CPU 126 proceeds to step S804.

  Step S804: The effect control CPU 126 executes an all memory check process. In this process, for all the operation memories that have reached the specified number (total operation memory of the main control CPU 72), the information of the individual “out of symbol” or “hit symbol type” and the information of “reach type” are analyzed. . The analysis result here is stored in the primary storage area of the RAM 130, for example, with labels attached in the order of operation storage.

  Step S806: When returning from the all-memory check process, the effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not it is possible to enter the special zone effect from the analysis result. Specifically, among the rush conditions as described above, (1) the special symbol-specific prefetch information command includes “winning symbol type”, or (2) the variation pattern prefetch information command includes “hit variation” If any one of “reach type” indicating “weak / strong super reach system”, “story reach system”, or the like is satisfied, the effect control CPU 126 determines that the special zone effect can be entered (Yes). . As a result, it is determined that the special zone effect is to be executed in the subsequent control (processing as a special period effect execution availability determination unit).

[When special zone production entry is possible]
When it is determined that the special zone effect can be entered as described above (step S806: Yes), the effect control CPU 126 proceeds to step S808.
Step S808: The effect control CPU 126 executes a zone effect scenario setting process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 individually sets each effect scenario for each change during the special zone effect (processing as individual effect content determining means). The set production scenario is stored, for example, in the scenario setting area of the RAM 130. A setting example of the production scenario will be further described later.

[When special zone production entry is not possible]
On the other hand, if the analysis result of the all memory check process (step S804) does not satisfy the special zone effect entry condition, the effect control CPU 126 determines that the special zone effect is not available (step S806: No), and the special control is performed in the subsequent control. It is determined that the zone effect is not executed (processing as a special period effect execution availability determination unit). In this case, the effect control CPU 126 proceeds to step S812.
Step S812: The effect control CPU 126 executes other scenario setting processing. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 sets an effect scenario that is executed when the special zone effect cannot be started (see FIG. 47). The effect scenario in this case does not cover a plurality of fluctuations, but is completed within the next one fluctuation. Here, the number of EZ points to be given is determined by the effect lottery. Similarly, the set effect scenario is stored in the scenario setting area of the RAM 130.

  Step S810: When an effect scenario during the special zone effect is set at step S808, or when another scenario is set at step S812, the effect control CPU 126 sets the “zone effect flag” value (ON) in the flag area. = 1) is set, and the process returns to the effect control process (FIG. 49). Thereby, selection corresponding to the special zone effect is performed in the subsequent various processes.

  Even if the total stored number has reached a specified number (e.g., 8) (step S800: Yes), if the special zone effect is already being executed, the effect control CPU 126 “zone effect” in the previous step S802. It is confirmed that the “middle flag” is “ON” (Yes), and the process directly returns to the effect control process.

[When the total number of memories has not reached the specified number]
When the zone effect management process is called, if the total stored number has not yet reached the specified number (for example, 8) (step S800: No), the effect control CPU 126 proceeds to step S814. Separately, if the total memory number has reached the specified number before and the operating memory is consumed and less than the specified number after the zone effect scenario or other scenario is set (step S800: No), the effect control is also performed. Next, the CPU 126 proceeds to step S814. However, in this case, since the special zone effect is already being performed, the “zone effect flag” is “ON”.

  Step S814: The effect control CPU 126 confirms again whether or not the “zone effect flag” is “ON”. If the special zone effect is not currently being produced, the “zone effect flag” is “OFF” (No), so the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process. On the other hand, if the special zone effect is already being produced at this time, the “zone effect flag” is “ON” (Yes), and the effect control CPU 126 proceeds to step S816.

Step S816: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the “zone effect end condition” is satisfied for the special zone effect currently being executed. In the present embodiment, for example, when any of the following cases is satisfied, it can be determined that the “zone effect end condition” is satisfied.
(1) A special symbol confirmation stop command has been received after the start of fluctuation of the working memory whose fluctuation pattern prefetch information command corresponds to “weak / strong super reach system” or “story reach system”.
(2) A special symbol confirmation stop command is received after the start of fluctuation for the operation memory in which the special symbol prefetch information command corresponds to “big hit symbol type” or the variation pattern prefetch information command corresponds to “hit variation”. about.

  When it does not correspond to either (1) or (2) above (No), the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process. On the other hand, when actually corresponding to either (1) or (2) (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 proceeds to step S818.

  Step S818: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 turns off the “in-zone effect flag” and returns to the effect control process. As a result, the special zone effect is completed through the following various processes. In this case, all the set production scenarios have been executed.

[Zone production scenario setting processing]
FIG. 51 is a flowchart specifically showing a procedure example of the zone effect scenario setting process (step S808 in FIG. 50) executed in the zone effect management process. Hereinafter, the zone effect scenario setting process will be described.

  Step S830: In the zone effect scenario setting process, the effect control CPU 126 first executes initialization. “Initialization” here means that if there is an effect scenario (zone effect scenario or other scenario) already set in the scenario setting area of the RAM 130, the setting (memory) is deleted.

Step S832: Next, the effect control CPU 126 determines the “target fluctuation” of the special zone effect based on a predetermined priority criterion. The “target fluctuation” here is positioned as the final fluctuation in the special zone effect period. The priority criterion for determining “target fluctuation” from the eight working memories can be determined as follows, for example.
(1) If there is a “hit fluctuation” in the working memory, it is given the highest priority as “target fluctuation”.
(2) If there is no “hit fluctuation” in the working memory, priority is judged in the order of “story reach system”, “strong super reach system”, and “weak super reach system” to determine “target fluctuation”.
(3) In the above (1), if there are a plurality of “hit fluctuations” in the working memory, the memory (the old one) consumed first (first) is prioritized.
(4) In the above (2), when there are a plurality of “reach types” in the working memory, the memory (new one) consumed last is prioritized.
The reason why the old memory is given priority in the above (3) is that the special zone effect is not continued across the big hit game. On the other hand, in the above (4), the special zone effect is continued until a larger number of times of fluctuation by setting the “target fluctuation” as late as possible. An example of determining “target fluctuation” using the priority criterion will be described later.

  Step S834: The effect control CPU 126 stores the determined “target fluctuation” position (how many fluctuations) in the RAM 130.

  Step S836: Next, the effect control CPU 126 executes scenario selection processing. In this process, for example, according to the determined “target fluctuation” position (number of remaining fluctuations) and its reach type (“hit fluctuation”, “story reach system”, “strong super reach system”, “weak super reach system”) To select one of the scenarios prepared in advance. It is assumed that a plurality of scenarios are stored in the ROM 128, for example.

  Step S838: Then, the effect control CPU 126 sets the selected effect scenario in the scenario storage area of the RAM 130, and returns to the zone effect management process (FIG. 50) after exiting this process.

[Example of target fluctuation determination]
FIG. 52 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of the working memory and “target fluctuation” determined from the contents. More specific description will be given below.

[Memory order]
The “storage order” shown in the leftmost column in FIG. 52 means that the storage is renewed in the order of “1” to “8” in the eight working memories. Therefore, “1” is the oldest in memory order, and “8” is the newest memory.

[Destination reach type]
The “predetermined reach type” shown in the center column in FIG. 52 is the content of the “reach type” represented by the variation pattern prefetch information command for each working memory. That is, if the “reach type” is “non-reach”, it means that the “ordinary deviation variation pattern” is selected by the variation in which the working memory is consumed. In addition, if the “reach type” is “normal reach”, it means that the “normal reach fluctuation pattern at the time of failure” is selected for the fluctuation in which the working memory is consumed, and the “reach type” is “strong super reach”. If this is the case, it means that the “strong super-reach fluctuation pattern at the time of disconnection” is selected by the fluctuation that consumes the working memory. Although not shown in FIG. 52, if there is a “hit fluctuation” in the working memory, the “hit reach fluctuation pattern” is selected based on the fluctuation. Here, “predetermined reach type” is used to determine “target variation”, but “target variation” may be determined using “big hit symbol type” based on the special look-ahead information command.

〔priority〕
The “priority” shown in the rightmost column in FIG. 52 represents the priority assigned to each working memory in consideration of the priority standards (1) to (4). In this example, for example, according to the priority criterion (2), the priority of the “strong super reach system” positioned “sixth” in the storage order is “3”, and “fourth” is stored in the storage order “ The priority of “normal reach system” is set to “1”. For other operation memories “non-reach”, the priority is “0” regardless of the storage order. Thereby, in the example of FIG. 52, the highest priority is the “strong super reach system” located in the “sixth” in the storage order, so this working memory is determined as “target fluctuation”. .

[Others]
In FIG. 52, for example, if there is a “strong super-reach system” in “seventh” or “eighth” in the order of storage, the newer priority is “4” or higher, so it is consumed later. The “7th” or “8th” working memory is “target fluctuation”.

  In addition, the operation memory (the oldest) having the storage order “first” is consumed first (first time) with eight operation memories, and here, the eight zone development preparation effect (inrush effect) Therefore, it is not basically “target fluctuation”. Accordingly, no particular priority is provided for the operation memory whose storage order is “first” (denoted as “−” in the figure).

[Example of scenario setting]
FIG. 53 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a zone effect scenario setting table for each pre-target fluctuation count. This effect scenario is an example of a scenario pattern that can be set when five fluctuations are performed before the “target fluctuation” determined in the working memory. As shown in the top row (heading row) in the table of FIG. 53, the production scenario includes, for example, “remaining fluctuation count”, “zone production screen frame”, “decorative body movable”, and “memory display body movable”. ”And the like. Hereinafter, each item constituting the production scenario will be described.

[Number of remaining fluctuations]
In the table of FIG. 53, the item “number of remaining fluctuations” shown in the leftmost column represents the number of remaining fluctuations until the “target fluctuation” is reached during the special zone effect. Here, “5 times” to “0 times” are assigned to each stage as the “number of remaining fluctuations”. Accordingly, the stage where “the number of remaining fluctuations” is “5 times” represents an effect scenario (effect contents) that is executed “before 5 changes of the target change”. In the same manner, the stages where the “number of remaining fluctuations” is “4 times” to “1 time” are respectively executed in the production scenarios (the contents of the production) ). Note that the remaining fluctuation count “0” shown in the lowermost row represents an effect scenario (effect contents) executed in “target change”.

[Zone production screen frame]
The item “zone effect screen frame” shown in the second column from the left indicates the pattern number of the “frame image” displayed on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42 during the special zone effect. The “frame image” is an image that looks like a floral border shown on the periphery of the display screen, as shown in the example of the effect image (FIG. 45). “Pattern N”, “Pattern N + 1”, “Pattern N + 2”, “Pattern N + 3”, and the like shown in each stage mean display patterns of “frame images”, and “N” is assigned for distribution in the production control. Some initial value (for example, 1 to 4) is assigned by (reliability display). For example, when the initial value is “N = 1”, the “frame image” whose rendering scenario is “pattern N (= 1)” is set to the display mode of “BLUE (blue)”. “Pattern N + 1”, “Pattern N + 2”, and “Pattern N + 3” represent production scenarios that have changed from the initial values. When the production scenario changes to “Pattern N + 1”, the “frame image” is “GREEN (green) ) ”And the display scenario changes to“ pattern N + 2 ”, the“ frame image ”changes to the“ RED (red) ”display mode. Then, when the production scenario changes to “pattern N + 3”, the “frame image” changes to the display form of “GOLD (gold)”, which can represent the maximum reliability. When the initial value “N” is a value of 2 or more, the “frame image” starts from “pattern N (= 2)” in a display mode of “GREEN (green)”, so that “pattern N + 2” and thereafter Are all displayed in such a manner that “frame image” is “GOLD (gold)”.

[Decorated body movable]
The item of “decorative body movable” shown in the third column from the left indicates a pattern (decorative body movable pattern) for operating the ornamental body (the one representing a bird) during the special zone effect. For example, “Pattern weak” represents a movable pattern that activates the decorations (simulating wings) hidden on the left and right outer sides of the display screen in small increments, and “Medium” in addition to “Pattern weak” For example, this represents a movable pattern in which a decorative body (having a neck) hidden under the display screen is operated in small increments. “Pattern strength” represents a movable pattern in which all decorative bodies are fully operated (fully movable) to complete a decorative body effect ((C) in FIG. 46). Note that a cell having a notation “-” means that the movable pattern of the decorative body is not set (the decorative body cannot be moved) in that scenario.

[Moveable memory display]
The item “memory display body movable” shown in the right end column indicates a pattern (memory display body movable pattern) for operating the memory display bodies 41a to 41h during the special zone effect. For example, “Pattern A” represents a movable pattern that vibrates the eight memory display bodies 41a to 41h that are in the raised state, and “Pattern B” sequentially represents the eight memory display bodies 41a to 41h. This represents a movable pattern that changes from a state of rising to a state of falling. “Pattern C” represents a movable pattern in which, for example, the eight memory display bodies 41a to 41h are repeatedly changed between a raised state and a collapsed state.

[Others]
Although not particularly illustrated, it is assumed that items such as “decorative body light emission pattern”, “memory display body light emission pattern”, and “sound output pattern” are provided as other items in the effect scenario.

  The table in FIG. 53 is a configuration example of a production scenario in the case where five changes are made before “target change”, but the ROM 128 stores the number of changes until “target change” (for example, 1 to 6 times). Separately, multiple production scenarios are stored. In the previous scenario selection process (step S836 in FIG. 51), the effect control CPU 126 selects any “zone effect scenario according to the number of changes before target” according to the position of “target change” in the working memory. Can do.

[Working memory production management process]
Next, the contents of the action memory effect management process executed following the zone effect management process in the effect control process will be described. FIG. 54 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the procedure of the working memory effect management process. Hereinafter, the contents will be described along a procedure example.

  Step S700: First, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the effect command at the time of increasing the number of working memories has been received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130, and confirms whether or not the effect command at the time when the number of working memories increases is stored. When it is confirmed that the effect command at the time of increasing the number of operating memories is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S701. If it is not possible to confirm that the effect command at the time of increasing the number of operating memories is stored (No), the effect control CPU 126 does not execute steps S701 to S703.

  Step S701: The effect control CPU 126 executes an effect selection process when the number of working memories increases. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern (lighting pattern of the memory display lamp 192) for newly lighting the memory display bodies 41a to 41h corresponding to the increased total stored number. The effect pattern selected here corresponds to the number of lighting of the memory display bodies 41a to 41h corresponding to the pure total stored number, and the lighting color pattern and the like are selected after step S701.

  Step S702: Next, the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the “zone effect flag” is “ON”, and if not “ON” (No), executes the next step S703. If the “zone production flag” is already “ON” (Yes), the production control CPU 126 does not execute step S703 in order to avoid a conflict with the special zone production scenario.

  Step S703: When the special zone effect is not being performed (step S702: No), the effect control CPU 126 executes a first determination effect selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not to change the lighting color pattern of the memory display bodies 41a to 41h to a special mode based on the contents of the special-read-ahead pre-read information command or the variation pattern pre-read information command. For example, when receiving a production command when increasing the number of working memories, when receiving fluctuation pattern look-ahead information commands such as `` hit fluctuation '', `` story reach system '', `` strong super reach system '', `` weak super reach system '' The effect control CPU 126 sets the lighting color to a basic mode (for example, for any one of the memory display bodies 41a to 41h that has selected the effect pattern to be newly lit in the effect selection process when the number of working memories increases (step S701)). An effect lottery is performed as to whether or not to change from a white color to a special mode (for example, blue, green, yellow, red, etc.). As a result of the effect lottery, if there is a special mode obtained by winning, the special mode (blue, green, yellow, red, etc.) is selected as a pre-determined effect pattern (processing as a pre-determined notice effect executing unit) ). In addition, when it becomes non-winning by effect lottery, effect control CPU126 does not select a pre-decision effect pattern.

  Step S704: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the effect command at the time when the number of working memories decreases is received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the effect command when the number of working memories is reduced is stored. As a result, when the production command when the number of working memories decreases is stored (Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes step S706. If it is not possible to confirm that the effect command at the time when the number of working memories decreases is stored (No), the effect control CPU 126 does not execute step S706.

  Step S706: The effect control CPU 126 executes effect selection processing when the number of working memories decreases. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 turns off the memory display bodies 41a to 41h corresponding to the total memory number before the decrease and turns on the memory display bodies 41a to 41h corresponding to the total memory number after the decrease (memory). The indicator lamp 192 is turned off and the lighting pattern is selected. When the special determination destination determination effect pattern selected in the destination determination effect selection process (step S702) is currently used, the effect control CPU 126 stores the memory display bodies 41a to 41h corresponding to the total memory number after the decrease. The point determination effect pattern of a specific aspect is reflected in the lighting effect pattern. For example, when the fourth memory display body 41d from the left (corresponding to the numeral “4”) is lit in “blue” before the decrease, the third memory from the left is displayed for the lighting effect pattern after the decrease. The content is rewritten to a lighting effect pattern in which the display body 41c (corresponding to the numeral “3”) is lit in “blue”. At this time, the effect control CPU 126 can also select a lighting effect pattern that changes the lighting color from “blue” to “red” or the like. As a result, the reliability of the effect can be changed as the number of times of the change for the previously determined effect that is already being executed is increased.

  When the above procedure is executed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process (FIG. 49).

[Direction design management processing]
FIG. 55 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure example of the effect symbol management process. The effect symbol management process includes an execution selection process (step S500), an effect symbol change pre-process (step S502), an effect symbol change process (step S504), an effect symbol stop display process (step S506), and a variable winning device operation. This is a configuration including a subroutine group of processing (step S508). Hereinafter, the basic flow of the effect symbol management process will be described along each process.

  Step S500: In the execution selection process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the jump destination of the process to be executed next (any one of steps S502 to S508). For example, the effect control CPU 126 sets the program address of the process to be executed next as the jump destination address, and sets the end of the effect symbol management process in the “jump table” as the return address. Which process is selected as the next jump destination depends on the progress of the processes performed so far. For example, if the situation has not yet started the variation display effect, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol variation pre-processing (step S502) as the next jump destination. On the other hand, if the effect symbol variation pre-processing has already been completed, the effect control CPU 126 selects the effect symbol variation processing (step S504) as the next jump destination, and if the effect symbol variation in-process has been completed, As a jump destination, the effect symbol stop display in-progress process (step S506) is selected. The variable winning device operating process (step S508) is selected as a jump destination only when the variable winning device management process (step S5000 in FIG. 27) is selected in the main control CPU 72. In this case, steps S502 to S506 are not executed.

  Step S502: In the effect symbol variation pre-processing, the effect control CPU 126 performs an operation of preparing conditions for starting the variable display effect using the effect symbol. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the contents of the reach effect according to various conditions (the lottery result, the winning type, the variation pattern in the variation, etc.), or the effect pattern (pre-reading notice effect pattern) for the notice effect. Other than the above, a pre-reach notice notice pattern, a reach notice notice pattern, etc. are selected. In addition, the production control CPU 126 also performs demonstration production control when the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state. The specific processing content will be described later using another flowchart.

  Step S504: In the effect symbol changing process, the effect control CPU 126 generates control information instructing the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) as necessary. For example, when performing an effect using the effect switching button 45 or the jog dial 45a during execution of the variable display effect using the effect symbol, the effect control CPU 126 monitors the presence or absence of a push operation or a rotation operation by the player, and the result The display control CPU 146 is instructed to control the content of the effect (button effect, jog selection effect, etc.) corresponding to the button.

  Step S506: In the effect symbol stop display process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the result display effect using the effect symbols and moving images in a manner corresponding to the result of the internal lottery. That is, the effect control CPU 126 instructs the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) to end the variable display effect and execute the result display effect. In response to this, the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146) ends the variable display effect that has been actually executed within the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and executes the result display effect. As a result, the result display effect is executed substantially in synchronization with the stop display of the special symbol, and the result of the internal lottery can be effectively taught (disclosure, notification, notification, etc.) to the player (execution of the symbol effect) means). However, in the present embodiment, at the time of small hitting, the result display effect is executed in a manner similar to or close to the loss or in a special manner (for example, the left and right performance symbols are in the tempered state and the middle performance symbol is the special symbol).

  Step S508: In the variable winning device operation process, the effect control CPU 126 controls the contents of the effect during the small hit or the big hit. In this processing, the effect control CPU 126 selects the contents of the prominent effect according to various conditions (for example, winning type). For example, in the case of 16 rounds probable big hit, the effect control CPU 126 selects a 16-round prominent effect pattern as the effect contents to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 42, and instructs this to the effect display control device 144 (display control CPU 146). To do. As a result, the image of the big hit effect is displayed on the display screen of the liquid crystal display 42, and the effect contents change as the round progresses. In the case of “small hit”, the effect control CPU 126 performs control to execute a mode transition effect (for example, an effect of changing the background in FIG. 42A).

[Preliminary design change processing]
FIG. 56 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the above-described effect symbol variation pre-processing. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S600: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not a demonstration effect command is received from the main control CPU 72. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not a demonstration effect command is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the command for demonstration effect is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S602.

  Step S602: The effect control CPU 126 executes a demo selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects a demonstration effect pattern. The demonstration effect pattern defines the contents of the effect indicating that the pachinko machine 1 is in a so-called customer waiting state.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the last address of the effect symbol management process. Then, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect control process as it is, and controls the contents of the demonstration effect based on the demonstration effect pattern in the subsequent display output process (step S404 in FIG. 49) and lamp driving process (step S406 in FIG. 49). To do.

  On the other hand, if it is confirmed in step S600 that the demonstration effect command is not stored (No), the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S604.

  Step S604: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current fluctuation is out of place (non-winning). Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not a lottery result command at the time of non-winning is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is saved (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S612. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of non-winning is not saved (No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S606. Note that whether or not the current variation is off can be confirmed based on a variation pattern command or a stop symbol command in addition to the lottery result command. In other words, if the current variation pattern command corresponds to the outlier normal variation or outlier reach variation, it can be determined that the current variation is outlier. Alternatively, if the current stop symbol command specifies a non-winning symbol, it can be determined that the current variation is out of sync.

  Step S606: If the lottery result command is other than non-winning (missing) (step S604: No), the effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current fluctuation is a big hit. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 accesses the command buffer area of the RAM 130 and confirms whether or not the lottery result command at the time of the big hit is stored. As a result, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of big hit is stored (Yes), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S610. On the contrary, when it is confirmed that the lottery result command at the time of big hit is not stored (No), since only the lottery result command at the time of small hit is left, in this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S608. Whether or not the current variation is a big hit can also be confirmed based on a variation pattern command or a stop symbol command. That is, if the current variation pattern command corresponds to the big hit variation, it can be determined that the current variation is a big hit. If the current stop symbol command corresponds to the jackpot symbol, it can be determined that the current variation is a jackpot.

  Step S608: The effect control CPU 126 executes a small hit hour variation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command received from the main control CPU 72 (for example, “C0H00H” to “D0H7FH”). The effect pattern number is prepared in advance corresponding to the variation pattern command, and the effect control CPU 126 can select an effect pattern number corresponding to the variation pattern command at that time by referring to an effect pattern selection table (not shown). it can. The production pattern numbers may be prepared in pairs with the variation pattern commands, or a plurality of production pattern numbers may be prepared for one variation pattern command.

  When the effect pattern number is selected, the effect control CPU 126 refers to an effect table (not shown), and the effect symbol change schedule (change time, reach type and reach occurrence timing) corresponding to the change effect pattern number at that time, stop display The mode and the like are determined. Note that the types of effect symbols determined here correspond to the “combination of symbols at the time of a small hit”.

  Although the above procedure corresponds to “small hit”, if it corresponds to 16 round big hit or 7 round big hit, the effect control CPU 126 confirms that it is “big hit” in step S606 (Yes). In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S610.

  Step S610: The effect control CPU 126 executes a big hit hour fluctuation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at that time based on the variation pattern command (for example, “E0H00H” to “F0H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72. The types of effect symbols determined here differ depending on the jackpot type (winning symbol). For example, the difference between “16 round jackpot” and “7 round jackpot”, “probability variation” and “non-probability variation”. Depending on the difference, the type of effect design to be selected differs. Note that, in the big hit effect pattern selection process, the process may be further branched for each big hit stop symbol.

  In the case of non-winning, the following procedure is executed. In other words, when the effect control CPU 126 confirms that there is a shift in step S604 (Yes), it next executes step S612.

  Step S612: The effect control CPU 126 executes a deviation effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 determines the effect pattern number at the time of deviation based on the variation pattern command (for example, “A0H00H” to “A6H7FH”) received from the main control CPU 72. The effect pattern numbers at the time of losing are classified into “ordinary deviation fluctuation”, “short-time deviation fluctuation”, “outlier reach fluctuation”, and the like, and a fine reach fluctuation pattern is defined in “outlier reach fluctuation”. Note that which effect pattern number is selected by the effect control CPU 126 is determined based on the variation pattern command transmitted from the main control CPU 72.

  When the effect pattern number at the time of detachment is selected, the effect control CPU 126 refers to an effect table (not shown), and the effect symbol change schedule corresponding to the change effect pattern number at that time (change time, presence / absence of reach, occurrence of reach) , Reach type and reach occurrence timing) and stop display mode (for example, “7”-“2”-“4”, etc.).

  When any one of the above steps S608, S610, and S612 is executed, the effect control CPU 126 next executes step S614.

  Step S614: The effect control CPU 126 executes a notice selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects the content of the notice effect to be executed during the current variable display effect by lottery. The content of the notice effect is determined based on, for example, the result of internal lottery (winning or non-winning) and the current internal state (normal state, high probability state, time reduction state). As described above, the notice effect is for notifying the player of the possibility that the reach state will occur during the variable display effect, or for notifying that there is a possibility that it will eventually be a big hit. Therefore, the selection ratio of the notice effect is set to be low at the time of non-winning, but the selection ratio of the notice effect is set to be relatively high to increase the player's expectation at the time of winning.

  Step S616: The effect control CPU 126 executes a zone effect pattern selection process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 manages the flow of effects leading to the occurrence of the special zone effect in response to “ON” of the “zone effect flag”, or manages the scenario during the special zone effect. The specific contents of the zone effect pattern selection process will be described later using another flowchart.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the effect symbol management process (end address). As a result, in the subsequent effect symbol variation processing (step S504 in FIG. 55), the variation display effect and the result display effect are executed based on the actually selected variation effect pattern (symbol effect executing means), A notice effect is executed based on various notice effect patterns. In addition, various stay mode effects are executed based on the background (stay) mode pattern selected here. Further, the production up to the special zone production is executed based on the zone production pattern selected here (production control means).

[Zone effect pattern selection processing]
FIG. 57 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the zone effect pattern selection process. Hereinafter, the contents of the zone effect pattern selection process will be described according to a procedure example.

  Step S900: First, the effect control CPU 126 also confirms whether or not the “zone effect flag” is “ON”. When the “zone production flag” is “OFF” (No), the production control CPU 126 returns to the production control process (FIG. 49) through the production symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 56). On the other hand, if the “zone production flag” is “ON” (Yes), the production control CPU 126 executes step S902 and subsequent steps.

  Step S902: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the current change is a target change of the zone entry effect. For example, after setting the effect scenario in the previous zone effect management process (FIG. 50), if this time is the first change, the effect control CPU 126 indicates that the (current change) is the target change of the zone entry effect. It judges (Yes) and performs step S904 next. Thereby, the next initial variation when the total number of memories reaches the specified number (eight) in a state where the special zone effect is not executed can be set as “target variation of the zone entry effect”.

  Step S904: Next, the effect control CPU 126 determines whether or not the (current change) has a variable number of seconds adapted to the zone entry effect. Specifically, the effect control CPU 126 confirms the variation time actually set by the variation based on the variation pattern command. If the fluctuation time corresponds to the second shortened fluctuation time (about 6.0 seconds), it is determined that the fluctuation time is the adaptive fluctuation time (Yes), and the process proceeds to step S906.

  Step S906: Here, the effect control CPU 126 executes a zone entry lottery. This lottery can be performed using the effect random number, and when the effect control CPU 126 acquires the effect random number from the counter area of the RAM 130, the effect control CPU 126 executes the next step S908.

  Step S908: The effect control CPU 126 refers to the rush effect lottery table stored in the ROM 128 and compares the acquired effect random number with the winning value. As a result, if the effect random number is within the range of the winning value, it is determined that the effect is won (Yes), and step S910 is executed. On the other hand, if the effect random number is not within the range of the winning value, the effect control CPU 126 determines that the effect is not won (No), and proceeds to step S918. Hereinafter, the flow in the case of non-winning production will be described.

[When the zone entry lottery is not selected]
Step S918: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern for executing the “zone entry failure effect ((M) in FIG. 44)”. Thereby, the zone entry effect is not executed due to the change (processing as effect control means).
Step S920: The effect control CPU 126 deletes the already set “zone effect scenario according to the number of pre-target fluctuations” (processing as effect control means).

  Step S922: The effect control CPU 126 sets the zone effect flag to “OFF”, and returns to the caller effect symbol variation pre-processing (FIG. 56). Thereby, since the zone effect flag is “OFF” at the time of the next call or later (step S900: No), the effect control CPU 126 does not execute step S902 and subsequent steps.

[Other than adaptive fluctuation seconds]
Similarly, the effect control CPU 126 executes step S920 when it is determined in the previous step S904 that this (current change) does not have the variable number of seconds adapted to the zone entry effect (step S904: No). For example, even if the fluctuation is “normal reach” or “out of time”, the fluctuation time is not the second shortened fluctuation time (for example, a pseudo-gase effect is performed on the production). Therefore, the variation does not have the variation seconds adapted to the zone entry effect. Accordingly, in this case as well, the effect control CPU 126 deletes the “zone effect scenario according to the number of pre-target fluctuations” that has already been set (processing as effect control means).

  In either case, the special scenario effect is not executed this time because the effect scenario once set is deleted. Therefore, after that, the total stored number reaches the specified number (8) again, and zone effect rush can be entered (step S806 in FIG. 50: Yes) in the previous zone effect management process (step S401 in FIG. 49). When it is determined, the effect control CPU 126 sets (resets) the effect scenario again (step S808 in FIG. 50).

[At the time of winning the zone entry lottery]
On the other hand, if the effect random number acquired in the previous step S906 is within the range of the winning value, the effect control CPU 126 determines that the effect is won (step S908: Yes), and executes the following procedure.

  Step S910: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 executes a zone entry process. In this process, the effect control CPU 126 selects an effect pattern for executing the above “zone entry success effect ((L) in FIG. 44)”. The specific processing contents will be described later.

  Step S912: When returning from the zone entry process, the effect control CPU 126 updates the “number of remaining fluctuations” on the effect scenario. Specifically, the remaining number of changes until “target change” is updated based on the zone effect scenario according to the number of changes before target selected in the previous scenario selection process (step S836 in FIG. 51). If it is immediately after returning from the zone entry process (step S910) in this call, the effect control CPU 126 sets the maximum value (for example, “5 times” in FIG. 53) of the zone effect scenario according to the number of pre-target fluctuations. Set as. Further, at the time of the next call or later, the effect control CPU 126 subtracts and updates the remaining fluctuation count by one.

  Step S914: The effect control CPU 126 confirms whether or not the number of remaining fluctuations is “0” as a result of updating the number of remaining fluctuations in the previous step S912. If the number of remaining fluctuations has not yet reached “0” (No), the effect control CPU 126 exits the zone effect pattern selection process here and returns to the caller effect pattern change pre-process (FIG. 56). Thereby, the special zone effect based on the effect scenario is executed from the next change.

[During special zone production]
Then, when the effect control CPU 126 executes the zone effect pattern selection process at the next call or later, the zone effect flag is “ON” (step S900: Yes), and this is not already the zone entry effect target fluctuation ( In step S902: No), the effect control CPU 126 executes step S916.

  Step S916: In this case, the effect control CPU 126 refers to the effect scenario corresponding to the current “number of remaining fluctuations” from the zone effect scenario according to the number of pre-target changes, and selects a zone effect pattern to be used for the current change. Thereby, the set production scenario is executed in order. Hereinafter, examples of zone effect patterns selected according to the remaining number of fluctuations will be described.

[When the remaining fluctuation count is “5 times”]
For example, as shown in the top row in the table of FIG. 53 (excluding the heading column; the same applies thereafter), in this example, when the “remaining fluctuation count” is the initial value “5”, The zone effect pattern is selected.
“Zone effect screen frame”: “Pattern N (here“ BLUE (blue) ”)”
"Decorated body movable": "None (-)"
“Moveable memory display”: “Pattern A”
As a result, the production scenario of the remaining number of fluctuations “5” is executed during the special zone production.

[When the remaining fluctuation count is “4 times”]
Further, as shown in the second row of the table, when the “remaining fluctuation count” is updated to “4 times”, the following zone effect pattern is selected.
“Screen frame for zone effect”: “Pattern N + 1 (here“ GREEN (green) ”)”
"Decorated body movable": "In the pattern"
“Moveable memory display”: “Pattern B”
As a result, the effect scenario of the remaining number of fluctuations “4 times” is executed.

[When the remaining fluctuation count is “3 times”]
As shown in the third row of the table, when the “remaining fluctuation count” is updated to “3”, the following zone effect pattern is selected.
“Screen frame for zone effect”: “Pattern N + 2 (here,“ RED (red) ”)”
"Decorated body movable": "Pattern weak"
“Moveable memory display”: “Pattern A”
As a result, the effect scenario of the remaining number of fluctuations “3 times” is executed.

[When the remaining fluctuation count is “2 times”]
As shown in the fourth row in the table, when the “remaining fluctuation count” is updated to “2”, the following zone effect pattern is selected.
“Screen frame for zone effect”: “Pattern N + 2 (here,“ RED (red) ”)”
"Decorated body movable": "None (-)"
“Moveable memory display”: “Pattern A”
Thereby, the effect scenario of the remaining number of fluctuations “2 times” is executed.

[When the remaining number of fluctuations is “1 time”]
Next, as shown in the fifth row of the table, when the “remaining fluctuation count” is updated to “1”, the following zone effect pattern is selected.
“Screen frame for zone effect”: “Pattern N + 2 (here,“ RED (red) ”)”
"Decorated body movable": "Pattern weak"
“Moveable memory display”: “Pattern A”
As a result, the effect scenario of the remaining fluctuation count “one time” is executed.

  As described above, during the special zone effect, the effect control CPU 126 selects a zone effect pattern by calling each time (step S916), and updates (subtracts 1) the remaining number of fluctuations, thereby setting the first “target It is possible to faithfully advance the “zone effect scenario according to the number of previous fluctuations” (processing as effect control means).

  When the remaining fluctuation count finally becomes “0”, the following processing is performed at the next call.

[When the remaining fluctuation count is “0” = Target fluctuation]
In this case, the zone effect flag is still “ON” (step S900: Yes), and since this is not the zone entry effect change (step S902: No), the effect control CPU 126 similarly executes step S916.

[Refer to the table in FIG. 53]
As shown at the bottom of the table, when the “remaining fluctuation count” is updated to “0”, the following zone effect pattern is selected in “target change” during the special zone effect.
“Screen frame for zone effect”: “Pattern N + 3 (here“ GOLD (Friday) ”)”
"Decorated body movable": "Pattern strong"
“Moveable memory display”: “Pattern C”
Thereby, the production scenario in “target fluctuation” is executed.

  In this way, the effect control CPU 126 can set each zone effect pattern (by item) according to the “number of remaining fluctuations” on the effect scenario during the special zone effect (processing as effect control means).

[Zone entry processing]
FIG. 58 is a flowchart showing a procedure example of the zone entry process. Hereinafter, it demonstrates along the example of a procedure.

  Step S930: First, the effect control CPU 126 acquires set scenario information. The scenario information acquired here is information on the zone effect scenario according to the number of pre-target changes selected in the previous zone effect scenario setting process (FIG. 51).

  Steps S932 and S934: The effect control CPU 126 selects the rush zone type offset. The effect control CPU 126 selects a “zone entry successful effect pattern” from the selected offset. The “rush zone type offset” selected in step S932 is reflected in the initial value (= N) of the “screen frame” effect pattern used in the zone entry success effect. Specifically, when “target fluctuation” corresponds to “hit fluctuation” in the current production scenario, the production control CPU 126 selects a value of “3 or more” for the “rush zone type offset” at a relatively high selection ratio. To do. In this case, the special zone effect can be entered in a manner that represents a higher reliability (for example, “RED (red)” or “GOLD (gold)”). On the other hand, when “target fluctuation” corresponds to “weak super reach system” in the current production scenario, the production control CPU 126 selects “1” as the “rush zone type offset” with a relatively high selection ratio. In this case, since it is possible to enter the special zone effect in a manner representing the basic reliability (for example, “BLUE (blue)”), it is possible to execute the special zone effect that reflects the actual prefetching result.

  Step S936: If the pre-reading effect pattern (a plurality of pre-reading effect patterns may be selected) at present, the effect control CPU 126 deletes all the pre-reading effect patterns (processing as effect control means). As a result, the pre-reading effect that has occurred before the special zone effect entry is canceled.

  When the above procedure is completed, the effect control CPU 126 returns to the zone effect management process (FIG. 50).

[Summary of production control for special zone production]
As described above, in the present embodiment, the effect control CPU 126 executes the following process regarding the control of the special zone effect.
(1) When the total stored number reaches the specified number (eight), the special-read-ahead pre-read information command or the variation pattern pre-read information command in all the eight working memories is analyzed (in FIG. 50) Step S804).
(2) As a result of the analysis, if there is a fluctuation pattern pre-reading information command of “weak super reach system” or more including “hit fluctuation” in the working memory, it is determined that the zone effect can be entered (step S806 in FIG. 50). : Yes), and thereafter, it is determined that the special zone effect (including the rush effect) will be executed over a maximum of eight fluctuations (special period effect execution availability determination means).
(3) If it is decided to execute the special zone effect, “target variation” is determined in the zone effect scenario setting process of FIG. 51, and each effect scenario is set according to the number of variations until “target variation” (individual effect contents) Decision means).
(4) However, even if a zone effect scenario is set in advance, an appropriate fluctuating number of seconds (effect measure) is not always obtained by the first change. For this reason, at the start of the first variation, the actual variation time (variation pattern) is determined, and if it is the adaptive variation seconds, the zone entry lottery (step S906 in FIG. 57) is performed to execute the zone entry lottery. It is determined whether or not (rush effect execution availability determination means).
(5) When it is determined that the zone entry effect is to be finally executed through the processing so far, the “zone entry success effect” shown in (L) in FIG. In each variation, special zone effects can be made to proceed in order according to the contents of the set effect scenario (effect control means).

(6) Further, when the zone entry effect is actually executed, if there is another pre-read effect (the effect of lighting the memory display bodies 41a to 41h in a special manner) that has occurred so far, such a After the pre-reading effect is ended (step S936 in FIG. 58), the zone entry effect can be executed (effect control means). As a result, the conflict or inconsistency between the pre-reading effect and the special zone effect that has occurred previously can be resolved, and the special zone effect can be executed in a natural flow.
(7) On the contrary, when the zone entry effect is not executed, the entry process (FIG. 58) is not executed. Therefore, the other prefetch effect patterns that have been generated are not deleted, and the prefetch effect is continuously executed. (Production control means). As a result, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the pre-reading effect that has occurred first is suddenly stopped, and to realize smooth performance control.

(8) On the other hand, even if it is decided to execute the special zone effect in (3) above, if the appropriate number of fluctuating seconds is not obtained in (3), the effect scenario once set is canceled. In addition, the processing is restarted from the above (1). Even if it is not an appropriate number of fluctuating seconds, if you try to forcibly enter the special zone production with the first fluctuation, the zone change success production of the first fluctuation is unnatural due to the production scale (for example, Even though the fluctuation time is more than a few seconds, the rushing effect ends first and the screen freezes, etc.), resulting in inconsistencies in the flow of the subsequent effects. In this regard, in the present embodiment, when an appropriate fluctuating number of seconds cannot be obtained, it is possible to cancel all the scenarios and start again from the determination as to whether or not to execute the special zone effect again (effect control means). As a result, it is possible to reliably prevent production problems.

[Flow when canceling a scenario]
Even in the case where the scenario is canceled at the first change after the production scenario is set (when step S920 in FIG. 57 is executed), the following flow can be realized in the present embodiment.

[1] First, in this case, since the zone effect flag is “OFF” (step S922 in FIG. 57), for example, the total stored number is the specified number (eight) during the change (during the change that canceled the scenario). ), The all memory check process (step S804 in FIG. 50) is performed again in the zone effect management process.
[2] In this case, since there is still a variation pattern prefetch information command that satisfies the condition in the undigested working memory, the zone effect scenario setting process (step S808 in FIG. 50) is immediately executed and the scenario Is reset. In this case, for example, the number of pre-target fluctuations is one less than the scenario canceled last time, but the reliability and the like are inherited as they are.
[3] If the next fluctuation after setting the scenario has an adaptive fluctuation time, the zone entry process (step S910 in FIG. 57) can be executed through the entry lottery. As a result, even if the scenario is canceled, if the total number of memories immediately recovers to the specified number, the production scenario that satisfies the execution conditions of the special zone production can be effectively used to re-establish the production scenario. You can rush. As a result, the occurrence frequency of the special zone effect can be maintained at a certain level, and the problem that “the dedicated special zone effect hardly occurs even though the total stored number has reached the specified number” can be solved.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be implemented with various modifications. The aspects of various effects, the configuration of the zone effect scenario, the aspect of the zone entry effect, the effect aspects in the special zone, and the like given in the embodiment are only examples, and are not limited to these effects.

  In one embodiment, the total number of memories is a specified number obtained by adding the maximum values (four each) of the two special symbols, but the specified number may be a value smaller than the total of the maximum values (four each). . The specified number of conditions may be determined only by the number of working memories of either the first special symbol or the second special symbol.

  The images given in other production examples are merely examples, and these can be appropriately modified. Further, the structure, board configuration, specific set values, etc. of the pachinko machine 1 are preferable examples including those shown in the figure, and it goes without saying that these can be appropriately modified.

  In the embodiment described above, the event generating means that can alternately generate the first event and the second event has been described in the example of the sorting device 200, but the left start winning port 28a and the right start winning port 26 are simply left and right. A structure arranged side by side may be adopted. Even with such a structure, the first event and the second event can be generated alternately.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8 Game board 8a Game area 20 Start gate 26 Right start prize port 28 Variable start prize device 28a Left start prize port 33 Normal symbol display device 33a Normal symbol operation memory lamp 34 1st special symbol display device 35 2nd special symbol Display device 34a First special symbol operation memory lamp 35a Second special symbol operation memory lamp 38 Game state display device 42 Liquid crystal display 70 Main control device 72 Main control CPU
74 ROM
76 RAM
124 Production control device 126 Production control CPU

Claims (7)

An element acquisition means for acquiring a lottery element necessary for an internal lottery related to a player's profit on the condition that a lottery opportunity has occurred during the game;
Element storage means for storing the lottery elements acquired by the element acquisition means up to an upper limit in the order of acquisition;
Lottery execution means for consuming the lottery elements in the order in which they are stored and executing the internal lottery when there is storage of the lottery elements by the element storage means in a state where a predetermined start condition is satisfied;
When the internal lottery is executed by the lottery execution means, the symbol display means for displaying the symbols in a manner representing the result of the internal lottery after the symbols are variably displayed over a preset variation time;
When the lottery opportunity acquired by the element acquisition unit is newly stored in the element storage unit due to the occurrence of the lottery opportunity when the start condition is not satisfied, the lottery execution unit stores the lottery element. Destination determination means for preliminarily determining the result of the internal lottery executed by the lottery execution means using the new lottery element before is consumed,
At the time of the symbol variation display by the symbol display means, at least the variation display effect corresponding to the symbol variation display is executed within the variation time, and then the symbol effect of executing the stop display effect corresponding to the symbol stop display mode Execution means;
When the number of lottery elements stored by the element storage means reaches a specified number, a special period until the maximum number of symbol variable display and stop display executed by the symbol display means thereafter reaches the specified number Whether or not to execute a special period effect in a form that indicates in advance that there is a possibility of winning in the internal lottery, by the destination determination means performed for storing the lottery elements for the specified number A special period effect execution feasibility determination unit that is determined based on a determination result in advance;
When it is determined by the special period effect execution availability determination means that the special period effect is to be executed, each time the symbol change display and stop display executed by the symbol display means within the special period, Individual production content determination means for individually determining the production content within the special period production,
When it is determined by the special period effect execution availability determination means that the special period effect is to be executed, and when the effect contents are individually determined by the individual effect content determination means, the lottery elements corresponding to the specified number are stored. When the internal lottery is executed by the lottery executing means, the variable display effect performed by the symbol effect executing means in response to the first variable display of the symbol executed by the symbol display means. At the time, whether or not to execute the rush effect of the aspect representing the possibility that the special period effect is started based on the variation time set by the symbol display means, rush effect execution availability determination means,
When it is determined that the rush effect is to be executed by the rush effect execution enable / disable determining unit, the symbol display executing unit performs the variable display effect performed by the symbol effect executing unit in response to the first symbol change display by the symbol display unit. The variable display effect performed by the symbol effect executing means in response to the change display and stop display of the symbol each time performed by the symbol display means after the next time within the special period while controlling the execution of the rush effect. And an effect control means for controlling the execution of the special period effect on the basis of the effect contents determined by the individual effect content determination means when the stop display effect is provided. In the gaming machine according to claim 1,
The element acquisition means includes
On the condition that a lottery opportunity has occurred during the game, further acquiring a variation pattern determining element related to the setting of the variation time by the symbol display means together with the lottery element,
The element storage means
Store the lottery element acquired by the element acquisition means and the variation pattern determination element as a set up to the upper limit value in the order of acquisition,
The symbol display means
Using the storage of the variation pattern determining element paired with the lottery element consumed by the lottery execution means at the time of display of the variation of the symbol, the variation time is set,
The destination determination means includes
When the combination of the lottery element and the variation pattern determination element acquired by the element acquisition unit is newly stored in the element storage unit, the symbol display is performed using the variation pattern determination element included in the new group. The change pattern information related to the setting of the change time by means is determined in advance,
The special period effect execution availability determination means is
Whether or not to execute the special period effect is determined based on a previous determination result by the previous determination unit performed for storage of at least one of the lottery element and the variation pattern determination element forming the set for the specified number. A gaming machine characterized by deciding. The gaming machine according to claim 2,
The destination determination means includes
For the variation time set by the symbol display means, a variation pattern group representing the degree of the length is determined in advance as the variation pattern information,
The special period effect execution availability determination means is
When the determination result that the degree of the variation time is represented by the specific variation pattern group is obtained by the prior determination of the variation pattern information by the destination determination unit, the special period effect is displayed. A gaming machine characterized by deciding to execute. In the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The production control means includes
When it is determined that the rush effect execution is not performed by the rush effect execution possibility determination unit, the variation performed by the symbol effect execution unit corresponding to the first symbol variation display and stop display by the symbol display unit. A gaming machine characterized by controlling the non-execution of the rush effect at the time of a display effect and erasing the effect content determined by the individual effect content determining means. In the gaming machine according to claim 4,
The special period effect execution availability determination means is
When the production content determined by the individual production content determination unit is erased by the production control unit, the lottery element storage for the specified number is first consumed by the lottery execution unit, so that the lottery element of the lottery element is consumed. When the number of stored lottery elements by the element storage means reaches the specified number again after the stored number has decreased below the specified number, the first determination is made regarding the storage of the lottery elements for the specified number that has been reached again Determining again whether or not to execute the special period effect based on the determination result made in advance by the means,
The individual production content determination means includes
When it is determined again that the special period effect is to be executed by the special period effect execution enable / disable determining unit after the determined effect content is erased by the effect control unit, it is executed by the symbol display unit within the special period. A game machine characterized in that, for each of the symbol change display and the stop display each time, the contents of the effects within each special period effect are determined individually. In the gaming machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
In a state where the lottery element is stored by the element storage unit, a prior determination result made by the destination determination unit for any of the lottery elements before being consumed by the lottery execution unit satisfies a specific condition If the lottery element satisfying the specific condition is consumed by the lottery execution unit, the lottery execution unit may subsequently win in the internal lottery. Further includes a prior determination advance notice execution means for executing the previous determination advance notice effect,
The production control means includes
When it is determined that the rush effect is to be executed by the rush effect execution enable / disable determining unit in a state where the pre-determination notice effect executing unit is executing the first determination notice effect executing unit, the first symbol display unit by the symbol display unit The execution of the rush effect is controlled by terminating the execution of the destination determination notice effect by the destination determination notice effect executing means at the time of the change display effect performed by the symbol effect execution means corresponding to the change display and stop display of A gaming machine characterized by that. The gaming machine according to claim 6,
The production control means includes
When it is determined that the rush effect execution is not executed by the rush effect execution enable / disable determining unit in a state where the pre-determination notice effect executing unit is executing the first determination notice effect executing unit, the first symbol display unit by the symbol display unit A game machine characterized by continuing execution of the preceding determination notice effect by the preceding determination notice effect executing means at the time of the change display effect performed by the symbol effect executing means corresponding to the change display and stop display of the game.