JP2014004003A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To allow a new performance on the basis of digital data included in effective sound by a reception part of another external device or the like and improve interest by including the digital data in the effective sound and outputting it.SOLUTION: A game machine includes a variable display device capable of executing a variable display game of variably displaying plural pieces of identification information on the basis of establishment of a start condition, game control means for generally controlling a game, and performance control means for controlling a plurality of performance devices which execute performances of the game corresponding to a command from the game control means, and imparts a game value to a player when a result form of the variable display game becomes a predetermined special result form. In the game machine, a sound source device capable of outputting prescribed effective sound is included, the performance control means outputs effective sound signals to the sound source device corresponding to the performance of the game, the sound source device outputs the prescribed effective sound on the basis of the effective sound signals outputted by the performance control means, and digital data that can be processed in an external device is included in the effective sound.

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine capable of communicating with an external device such as another gaming machine.

  As a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, when a game ball is launched into the game area formed on the front surface of the game board, and the launched game ball wins the start opening, the image display means constituted by a liquid crystal display device, etc. There is a game that displays a plurality of identification information (special symbols) in a variable manner. In addition, a game that causes a special game state that gives value to the player is known in connection with the result of the variable display game being in a specific mode.

  In such a gaming machine having an image display means, various effects are expressed by displaying various characters on the image display means. In addition, a speaker is attached to the inside of the gaming machine, a predetermined sound effect is generated by the speaker so as to correspond to the effect displayed on the image display means, and the player is more interested in the ongoing effect. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 7-8601

  However, in such a conventional gaming machine, only a predetermined sound effect is generated from a speaker mounted inside the gaming machine according to a change in the display state of the effect, and similarly in any gaming machine. Because it only generates sound effects, it gave players a sense of feeling.

  The present invention uses a speaker not only as a sound effect for a production, but also by picking up a sound effect at a receiving unit of another external device, thereby enabling a new production and improving the interest. For the purpose.

  In a typical embodiment of the present invention, game control means for overall control of the game, and effect control means for controlling a plurality of effect devices for effecting the game in response to a command from the game control means, The plurality of effect devices include a sound source device capable of outputting a predetermined sound effect, and the effect control means outputs a sound effect signal to the sound source device in response to a game effect. The sound source device outputs a predetermined sound effect based on the sound effect signal output by the effect control means, and the sound effect includes digital data that can be processed by an external device.

  “Digital data” is data for causing an external device including a speaker such as a mobile phone to output a predetermined sound effect with the speaker of the external device, or for the external device including a display device. Includes data for displaying a predetermined image or moving image. For example, it is possible to provide a gaming machine in which an earphone or the like is connected to an external device capable of outputting sound effects such as a mobile phone so that only individuals can enjoy the sound effects.

  The “external device” may be another adjacent gaming machine or a portable terminal such as a cellular phone of a player. When the external device is a mobile terminal such as a mobile phone, game information can be transmitted and displayed on the mobile terminal, or a URL for distributing a standby image or the like can be transmitted. Further, the external device may be a card unit, and game information may be output on a display screen provided in the card unit.

  The “production control unit” may cause the player to emit a specific sound effect signal by operating the operation unit at an arbitrary timing. For example, it is possible to embed digital data for registering a player's game record in an external device by pressing an operation button.

  “Sound effect” includes effect sound for effect used for effect and data effect sound to be processed as digital data by being received. The effect sound for the effect is emitted in the first frequency region which is a human audible region among the frequency regions which can be output by the speaker, and the sound effect for the data is generated in the second frequency region which is higher in frequency than the first frequency region. It is emitted. In addition, the gaming machine is provided with a sound volume, and by adjusting the sound, the effect sound effect is adjusted, but the data sound effect is not adjusted, and a constant volume is maintained.

  According to one embodiment of the present invention, sound effects can be generated and digital data can be transmitted. Therefore, it is possible to produce an effect without feeling uncomfortable and to exchange data with an external device.

1 is a perspective view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a front view of the game board with which the gaming machine of the embodiment of the present invention is provided. It is a block block diagram which shows the control system centering on the game control apparatus of the game machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a block block diagram which shows the control system centering on the production | presentation control apparatus of the game machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the upper plate cover unit of the gaming machine of the embodiment of the present invention, (A) is a front view, (B) is a perspective view. It is a figure for demonstrating the production button of the game machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the first half of the main process of the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart of the latter half part of the main process of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the timer interruption process of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the special figure game process of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the structure of the display part of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the structure of the 2nd display part which shows the map information and the positional information on a character of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the display of the 2nd display part when the character of embodiment of this invention moves. It is a figure explaining the display content of the 1st display part and 2nd display part of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the display content of the 1st display part and the 2nd display part in the scene which moves in the forest of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the display contents of the 1st display part and the 2nd display part in the scene which reached the riverside of an embodiment of the invention. It is a figure explaining the display content of the 1st display part and the 2nd display part in the scene which encountered the character corresponding to the other game machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the display content of the 1st display part and the 2nd display part in the scene which encountered the character which does not correspond to the other game machine of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the main process performed by the microcomputer for main control (1stCPU) of the presentation control apparatus of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the external apparatus communication process of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the sound control process of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the sound setting process of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the 1st scene control process of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the selection screen transfer process of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the game character selection process of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the customization screen process of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the process in the fluctuation | variation of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the fluctuation pattern restriction | limiting process of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the area information update process of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the custom character customization screen of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen transition at the time of the character selection of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating another example of a screen structure of the 1st display part of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the prefetch effect in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the prefetch effect in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining an example of the mutual production between game machines of an embodiment of the invention. It is a figure explaining an example of the mutual production between game machines of an embodiment of the invention. It is a figure explaining the production | presentation when two characters discover a treasure chest in an example of the mutual production between game machines of an embodiment of the invention, and shows a mode that each character moves toward a treasure chest. It is a figure explaining the production | presentation in case two characters discover a treasure chest in an example of the mutual production between game machines of an embodiment of the invention, and shows how each character discovers a treasure chest. In the example of the mutual effects between the gaming machines according to the embodiment of the present invention, it is a diagram for explaining the effects when two characters have found a treasure chest, showing a state where the character has acquired the treasure chest. It is a figure which shows an example of all the members gathering effect of embodiment of this invention, and is a figure explaining the scene where each character gathers. It is a figure which shows an example of all the members production | presentation of embodiment of this invention, and is a figure explaining the scene which acquires a treasure chest.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of a gaming machine according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the front, rear, left, and right in the description of the embodiment refer to a direction viewed from the game board (a direction viewed from the player).

[Composition of gaming machine]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a gaming machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  The gaming machine 1 includes an opening / closing frame 4 that is attached to a main body frame 2 fixed to an island facility via a hinge 3 so that a right side portion can be freely opened and closed. The open / close frame 4 includes a front frame 5 and a glass frame 6.

  A game board 30 (see FIG. 2) is disposed on the front frame 5, and a glass frame 6 having a cover glass 6 a that covers the front surface of the game board 30 is attached. The front frame 5 and the glass frame 6 can be opened individually. For example, only the glass frame 6 can be opened to access the game area 31 (see FIG. 2) of the game board 30. Further, by opening the front frame 5 in a state where the glass frame 6 is not opened, it is possible to access a game control device 600 (see FIG. 3) or the like disposed on the back side of the game board 30.

  A decorative member 7 is disposed around the cover glass 6 a of the glass frame 6. A frame decoration device 21 (see FIG. 4) configured by LEDs or the like is accommodated inside the decoration member 7, and the light emission state of the decoration member 7 can be adjusted by controlling the frame decoration device 21.

  An illumination unit 8 is disposed above the glass frame 6, and a movable illumination 9 is disposed on the left and right sides of the illumination unit 8. The illumination unit 8 accommodates an illumination member such as an LED inside, and performs a light emission effect according to the gaming state. The movable illumination 9 includes an illumination member such as an LED, and a frame effect device 22 (see FIG. 4) that includes an illumination drive motor that drives the illumination member. The frame effect device 22 of the movable illumination 9 is controlled so as to drive (for example, rotationally drive) the illumination member according to the gaming state. In addition, the illumination member arrange | positioned inside the illumination unit 8 and the movable illumination 9 also comprises some frame decoration apparatuses 21 (refer FIG. 4).

  The gaming machine 1 includes an upper speaker 10a and a lower speaker 10b that can emit sound effects, alarm sounds, notification sounds, and sounds including digital data along with these sounds. The upper speaker 10 a is disposed on both upper side portions of the glass frame 6, and the lower speaker 10 b is disposed below the upper plate 11 a constituting the upper plate cover unit 11.

  A gaming state notification LED 12 for notifying abnormality in the gaming machine 1 is provided on the upper right side of the movable illumination 9 disposed on the left side. When an abnormality occurs in the gaming machine 1, the gaming state notification LED 12 lights up or blinks, and a notification sound for notifying the abnormality is output from the upper speaker 10a and the lower speaker 10b.

  Abnormalities occurring in the gaming machine 1 include failure of the gaming machine 1 and implementation of fraud. The illegal act includes, for example, an act of illegally manipulating the trajectory of the launched game ball with a magnet or an act of vibrating the gaming machine 1. These fraudulent acts are detected by detecting magnetism with the magnetic sensor switch 23 (see FIG. 3) or detecting vibration with the vibration sensor switch 24 (see FIG. 3).

  Further, the act of opening the open / close frame 4 illegally is also included in the illegal act. The open / closed state of the front frame 5 is detected by a front frame open detection switch 25 (see FIG. 3), and the open / closed state of the glass frame 6 is detected by a glass frame open detection switch 26 (see FIG. 3).

  An upper plate cover unit 11 including an upper plate 11 a is provided at the lower part of the glass frame 6. The game balls stored in the upper plate 11a are supplied to a ball launcher provided at the lower part of the front frame 5.

  A fixed panel 13 that is positioned below the glass frame 6 and fixed to the front frame 5 is provided with a lower plate 14 and an operation unit 15 for driving the ball emitting device. When the player rotates the operation unit 15, the ball launcher launches the game ball supplied from the upper plate 11 a to the game area 31 (see FIG. 2) of the game board 30. Note that the operation unit 15 is provided with a touch sensor, and it is possible to determine whether or not the player is touching the operation unit 15. When the player is touching the operation unit 15, a signal is input to the discharge and firing control device that controls the ball launching device. The lower plate 14 is provided with a ball removal mechanism 16 for discharging game balls stored in the lower plate 14 to the outside.

  The upper plate cover unit 11 is provided with an effect button 17 for receiving an operation input from the player on the front side of the upper plate 11a. The effect button 17 includes a main button and a plurality of sub buttons. Details of the effect button 17 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  When the player operates the effect button 17, it is possible to perform an effect in which the player's operation is intervened in the variable display game on the variable display device 35 (see FIG. 2). In the normal game state, the effect pattern (Production mode) can be changed. The fluctuation display game includes a special figure fluctuation display game and a common figure fluctuation display game. In the present specification, when the fluctuation display game is simply referred to, the special figure fluctuation display game is indicated.

  The normal gaming state is a gaming state in which a specific gaming state has not occurred. The specific game state is, for example, a probability change state with a high probability of drawing a variable display game, a short time state capable of improving the number of executions of the variable display game per unit time, a jackpot game state (special game state), Or a small hit gaming state.

  Further, after the variable display game is started, an operation promotion effect for promoting the operation of the effect button 17 is executed, and by operating the effect button 17 while the operation promotion effect is being executed, the start memory ( It is possible to execute a notice effect or the like for notifying the result of the variable display game corresponding to (holding storage) in advance.

  Below the decorative member 7 of the glass frame 6, a ball lending button 18 that is operated when a player rents a game ball, and a discharge button 19 that is operated to discharge a prepaid card or the like from a card unit (not shown). Are arranged. Further, a balance display unit 20 for displaying a balance of a prepaid card or the like is provided between the ball lending button 18 and the discharge button 19.

  With reference to FIG. 2, the gaming board 30 disposed in the gaming machine 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 30 provided in the gaming machine 1.

  The game board 30 is provided with guide rails 33 as partition members on the surface of a rectangular game board main body 32 made of plywood, plastic, or the like, thereby forming a substantially circular game region 31.

  A center case 34 having an opening 34 a is disposed in the game area 31. An opening 30 a having a shape along the outer periphery of the center case 34 is formed in the game board 30, and the center case 34 is fitted into the opening 30 a from the front of the game board 30.

  On the back side of the game board 30, a control base unit including a variable display device 35 is disposed. The variable display device 35 includes a first display unit 35a capable of displaying a variable display game that displays a plurality of pieces of identification information. The control base unit further includes an effect device 70 capable of executing an operation effect and a light emission effect. The effect device 70 includes a first movable effect device 71 provided at a position corresponding to the lower portion of the center case 34 and a second movable effect device 72 provided at positions corresponding to the side portion and the upper portion of the center case 34. ing.

  The opening 34a of the center case 34 is provided corresponding to the first display portion 35a of the variable display device 35, and the first display portion 35a of the variable display device 35 is arranged so as to face the opening 34a of the center case 34. Established. The first display unit 35a of the variable display device 35 is a liquid crystal display capable of displaying an arbitrary image, and a plurality of identification information (special symbols) and characters that produce a variable display game are displayed on the display screen. An image based on is displayed. The variable display device 35 sets a plurality of variable display areas (for example, three variable display areas on the left side, the center, and the right side) on the first display unit 35a so that independent images can be displayed in each display area. It is configured.

  A second display unit 48 is disposed on the lower right side of the center case 34. The second display unit 48 displays auxiliary information at the time of performing the effect, and the display content is switched by operating the effect button 17 or the like. Note that the second display unit 48 may be installed in another location instead of the illustrated position. Further, a part of the first display part 35 a may be used as the second display part 48.

  In the game area 31 on the upper right side of the center case 34, a normal figure start gate 36 is provided that establishes a start condition for a normal symbol (normal figure) variable display game when a game ball passes.

  A gaming area 31 below the center case 34 is provided with a first start winning opening 37 that can give a start condition for a first special symbol (first special figure) variable display game based on winning of a game ball. In the center case 34, the warp passage 120 for guiding the game balls flowing down the game area 31 to the inside of the center case 34 and the game balls passing through the warp passage 120 can roll and roll. A stage unit 80 is provided for allowing the game ball to flow down to the game area 31 above the first start winning opening 37.

  A game area 31 on the lower right side of the center case 34 is provided with a second start winning port 38 that can give a start condition for the second special symbol (second special figure) variable display game based on the winning of the game ball. . Since the second start winning opening 38 is located behind the decorative plate 39, the second starting winning opening 38 is not shown in FIG. The second start winning opening 38 is movable so that it projects forward of the game area 31 when the result of the normal variation display game is a win and can guide the flowing game ball to the second starting winning opening 38. A receiving part (not shown) is provided. The movable receiving portion is housed on the back side of the game board 30 in a normal state, and the game ball passing behind the decoration board 39 cannot enter the second start winning opening 38 (a disadvantageous state for the player). The game ball flows down without winning the second start winning opening 38. On the other hand, when the result of the universal figure change display game is a win, the movable receiving portion projects forward of the game area 31 based on the driving force of the universal solenoid 27 (see FIG. 3), and the decorative board 39 The game ball passing behind is likely to flow into the second start winning opening 38 (a state advantageous to the player). The movable receiving part provided in the second start winning opening 38 is controlled by the game control device 600 (FIG. 3). The game control device 600 generates a short-time state (a general power support state) as a specific game state by increasing the frequency of occurrence of the easy-to-win state or increasing the occurrence time of the easy-to-win state.

  In the game areas 31 on both the left and right sides of the first start winning opening 37, a plurality of general winning openings 40 are provided which satisfy only the conditions for paying out a winning ball when a winning game ball is won.

  In the game area 31 on the right side of the first start winning opening 37, an attacker-type opening / closing door that can be opened by turning the upper end side to the front side by a large winning opening solenoid 28 (see FIG. 3). A special variable winning device 41 having a large winning opening 41a is provided. When the result of the first special figure variation display game is a big hit, the special variable winning device 41 converts the big winning opening from a closed state (blocking state unfavorable to the player) to an open state (a state advantageous to the player). The game balls are given to the player by facilitating the inflow of the game balls into the special winning opening.

  In addition to the above-mentioned starting prize opening and the like, the game area 31 includes a wind direction changing member such as a windmill or obstacle nail (not shown) that changes the flow direction of the game ball, or a game ball that has flowed down without winning a prize. A recovery outlet 42 is disposed.

  In the lower right part of the game board 30, a special figure fluctuation display of the special figure fluctuation display game (the first special figure fluctuation display game and the second special figure fluctuation display game), the special figure winning memory number (the first special figure) Fluctuation display game and second special figure fluctuation display game start memory number), ordinary figure fluctuation display game usual figure fluctuation display, ordinary figure winning memory number (ordinary figure fluctuation display game start memory number), and determination of jackpot A status indicator for displaying the number of rounds and the like is provided.

  In the gaming machine 1, the game ball launched by the ball launcher is launched into the game area 31 through the launch ball guide passage 43 defined along the inner peripheral wall of the guide rail 33, and a direction changing member (not shown). ) To flow down the game area 31 while changing the falling direction. The firing ball guide passage 43 is formed by the guide rail 33 and the inner rail 44, and a valve body 400 is provided at the end of the inner rail 44 located at the exit of the firing ball guide passage 43. The lower end of the valve body 400 is fixed to the inner rail 44, and the valve body 400 is disposed so as to close the outlet of the firing ball guide passage 43. The valve body 400 is a leaf spring member made of a metal plate, and allows a game ball to be launched from the launch ball guide passage 43 to the game region 31, while playing from the game region 31 side to the launch ball guide passage 43. The back flow of the sphere is prohibited.

  The gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment is configured such that the player makes a left or right strike according to the gaming state, and a short-time state does not occur after a normal gaming state or a big hit gaming state such as immediately after the game starts. Is left-handed by the player. Note that a left-handed or right-handed instruction is displayed on the first display unit 35a of the variable display device 35 so that the player can easily make a game according to the gaming state.

  When left-handed, the game ball flows down the game area 31 on the left side of the center case 34, and the first winning prize opening 37 and the general winning opening provided on the left side of the first starting prize opening 37 are displayed. The player wins the prize 40 or is discharged to the outside of the gaming machine 1 through the out port 42 provided at the bottom of the gaming area 31. The game ball guided to the stage unit 80 through the warp passage 120 also wins the first start winning opening 37 or wins the general winning opening 40 on the left side of the first starting winning opening 37. When a game ball wins the general winning opening 40 or the first start winning opening 37, the number of game balls corresponding to the type of the winning winning opening is paid out to the player as a winning ball.

  When a game ball wins in the first start winning opening 37, the first special figure fluctuation display game is executed on the status display, and the decorative special figure fluctuation display game corresponding to the first special figure fluctuation display game is changed. 35. In the variation display device 35, a decoration special figure variation display game in which identification information composed of three numbers or the like is sequentially displayed in a variable manner is started, and an image related to the decoration special diagram variation display game is displayed on the first display unit 35a. When the game ball is won at the first start winning opening 37 at a predetermined timing, the result of the first special figure variation display game becomes a special result (big hit), and in the decorative special figure variation display game, three display symbols are displayed. Stops when all are aligned. In this case, the open / close door 41a of the special variable winning device 41 is opened, and a big hit gaming state (special gaming state) is entered.

  During the big hit gaming state, in order to make the game ball win a big winning opening of the special variable winning device 41, the player makes a right strike. When a right strike is made, the game ball flows down the game area 31 on the right side of the center case 34. The special winning opening of the special variable prize winning device 41 removes the game ball from a closed state (a disadvantageous state for the player) that does not accept the game ball until a predetermined time elapses or until a predetermined number of game balls have won the grand prize port. The open state is easy to accept (a state advantageous to the player). When a game ball wins a big winning opening, a player is given a game value capable of acquiring many game balls. One round is defined as opening the grand prize opening until a predetermined number of game balls are won in the big prize opening or a predetermined time has elapsed since the opening of the grand prize opening. The number of rounds (for example, 15 times or 2 times) is continued.

  By the way, when the stop symbol at the time of the big hit is a specific symbol or the like, the gaming state after the big hit gaming state becomes a short time state. The time reduction state is continued until the special figure fluctuation display game (the first special figure fluctuation display game or the second special figure fluctuation display game) is performed 100 times. During the short-time state, the gaming machine 1 is set so that the player makes a right turn. If the time-short state does not occur after the big hit gaming state, a left-handed instruction is displayed on the first display portion 35a of the variable display device 35, and the player left-handed.

  When a right-handed strike is made during the short-time state and the game ball passes through the usual figure start gate 36, a usual figure variation display game is started on the state indicator. When the game ball is passed to the usual figure start gate 36 at a predetermined timing, the result of the usual figure change display game is won. In this case, the movable receiving portion of the second start winning port 38 located behind the decorative plate 39 projects forward of the game area 31 based on the driving force of the general-purpose solenoid 27 (see FIG. 3), and the second start The possibility of winning a game ball in the winning opening 38 is increased.

  When a game ball wins the second start winning opening 38, the second special figure variation display game is executed on the status display. When the game ball is won at the second start winning opening 38 at a predetermined timing, the result of the second special figure variation display game is a win (small hit). When a game ball wins the second start winning opening 38, the second special figure fluctuation display game is executed on the status display, and the decorative special figure fluctuation display game corresponding to the second special figure fluctuation display game is variably displayed. When the result of the second special figure variation display game is a win (small hit) when executed by the device 35, the result corresponding to the decorative special figure variation display game (for example, three display symbols are “1, 2, 3 ”or the like may be displayed in a state where they are arranged in a specific arrangement order.

  In addition, after completion of the time-short state, a left-handed instruction is displayed on the first display unit 35a of the variable display device 35, and the player left-hands. As described above, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, the game progresses while the player makes a left strike or a right strike.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the game control device 600 and the effect control device 700 provided in the gaming machine 1 will be described.

  FIG. 3 is a block configuration diagram showing a control system centering on the game control device 600 of the gaming machine 1. FIG. 4 is a block configuration diagram showing a control system centering on the effect control device 700 of the gaming machine 1.

  A game control device 600 shown in FIG. 3 is a main control device (main board) that comprehensively controls games in the gaming machine 1. A power supply device 800, a payout control device 640, and an effect control device 700 are connected to the game control device 600. The game control device 600 transmits a control signal (command) to the payout control device 640 and the effect control device 700 to instruct execution of various processes. Furthermore, the game control device 600 is connected to various switches, solenoids to be controlled, and the like.

  The game control device 600 includes a CPU unit 610 that performs various arithmetic processes, an input unit 620 that receives input of various signals, and an output unit 630 that outputs various signals and control signals. The CPU unit 610, the input unit 620, and the output unit 630 are connected to each other by a data bus 680.

  The input unit 620 receives signals output from various switches provided on the game board 30 and the like and signals output from the payout control device 640. The input unit 620 includes a proximity interface (I / F) 621 and input ports 622 and 623.

  The input ports 622 and 623 receive a signal input via the proximity I / F 621 or directly receive a signal input from the outside. Information input to the input ports 622 and 623 is provided to the CPU unit 610 and the like via the data bus 680.

  The proximity I / F 621 is an interface that receives signals output from various switches, converts the input signals, and outputs the converted signals to the input port 622. The proximity I / F 621 is connected to a first start port switch 601, a second start port switch 602, a gate switch 603, winning port switches 604a to 604n, and a count switch 605.

  The first start port switch 601 is a switch that detects that a game ball has won the first start winning port 37. The second start port switch 602 is a switch that detects that a game ball has won the second start winning port 38. The gate switch 603 is a switch that detects that the game ball has passed the usual start gate 36. The winning award opening switches 604a to 604n are switches for detecting that the game ball has won the general winning opening 40.

  Detection signals of the first start port switch 601 and the second start port switch 602 are output to the input port 622 and also to the gaming microcomputer 611 via the inversion circuit 612 of the CPU unit 610. This is because the signal input terminal of the gaming microcomputer 611 is designed to detect the low level as an effective level.

  The count switch 605 is a switch for detecting that a game ball has won a big winning opening. When a winning game ball is detected by the count switch 605, the number of winning game balls is counted, and the counted number of gaming balls is stored in a memory provided in the game control device 600.

  Since the voltage of the input signal to the proximity I / F 621 is normally within a predetermined range, according to the proximity I / F 621, disconnection of lead wires in various switches based on voltage values of signals from the various switches, Short circuit, abnormal voltage value, etc. can be detected. When such an abnormality is detected, the proximity I / F 621 outputs a signal indicating the abnormality from the abnormality detection output terminal.

  In addition, since the output value (ON / OFF) of the signal input to the proximity I / F 621 is switched by attaching / detaching the connector of the switch connected to the proximity I / F 621, the proximity I / F 621 is not connected to the switch. Even so, the output is kept constant.

  Further, signals from the magnetic sensor switch 23 and the vibration sensor switch 24 are directly input to the input port 622, and from the front frame opening detection switch (SW) 25 and the glass frame opening detection switch (SW) 26 to the input port 623. The signal is input directly. Various signals from the payout control device 640 are also input to the input port 623.

  The magnetic sensor switch 23 detects a magnetic force in order to detect an illegal act of manipulating the trajectory of the launched game ball with a magnet. The vibration sensor switch 24 detects the vibration of the gaming machine 1 in order to detect an illegal act that vibrates the gaming machine 1.

  The front frame opening detection SW 25 detects that the front frame 5 is opened. The front frame opening detection SW 25 is set to ON when the front frame 5 is released from the main body frame 2, and is set to OFF when the front frame 5 is closed by the main body frame 2.

  The glass frame open detection SW 26 detects that the glass frame 6 has been opened. The glass frame open detection SW 26 is set to ON when the glass frame 6 is released from the front frame 5, and is set to OFF when the glass frame 6 is closed to the front frame 5.

  The CPU unit 610 of the game control device 600 includes a game microcomputer 611, an inversion circuit 612, and a crystal oscillator 613.

  The gaming microcomputer 611 includes a CPU 611a, a ROM 611b, and a RAM 611c, and executes various processes such as a big hit lottery by executing a program stored in the ROM 611b based on a signal input via the input unit 620. . The gaming microcomputer 611 is connected via an output unit 630 to a collective display device including a gaming state notification LED 12 and a status indicator, a general electric solenoid 27, a special winning opening solenoid 28, an effect control device 700, and a payout control device. A control signal is transmitted to 640, and the gaming machine 1 is comprehensively controlled. The gaming microcomputer 611 selects a port for inputting or outputting a signal by chip selection.

  The ROM 611b is a non-volatile storage medium and stores programs, data, and the like for game control.

  The RAM 611c is a volatile storage medium, and is used as a work area for temporarily storing information (for example, random number values) necessary for game control.

  The inversion circuit 612 inverts the logical value of the signal (the signal from the first start port switch 601 and the second start port switch 602) input via the proximity I / F 621 and outputs the inverted value to the gaming microcomputer 611.

  The crystal oscillator 613 is configured as an operating clock source of a hard random number for performing a timer interrupt, a system clock signal, a big hit lottery, and the like.

  The output unit 630 of the game control device 600 includes ports 631a to 631e, buffers 632a and 632b, drivers 633a to 633d, and a photocoupler 634.

  The ports 631a to 631e receive signals input via the data bus 680.

  The buffers 632a and 632b temporarily hold signals input via the data bus 680 and the ports 631a and 631b.

  The drivers 633a to 633d generate various drive signals from the signals input via the ports 631c to 631e and output them to each device.

  The photocoupler 634 is configured to be connectable to an external inspection device 670, and removes noise from various signals that are input and output to shape the waveforms of the various signals. Information is transmitted and received between the photocoupler 634 and the inspection device 670 by serial communication.

  Information output from the CPU unit 610 by parallel communication is transmitted to the payout control device 640 via the port 631a. Since there is no need to secure one-way communication for the payout control device 640, a control signal is directly transmitted from the port 631a to the payout control board of the payout control device 640.

  The payout control device 640 discharges the winning ball from the payout unit (not shown) based on the prize ball command signal from the game control device 600, or the payout unit based on the lending request signal from the card unit (not shown). Or renting a ball. The payout control device 640 outputs a payout abnormality status signal, a shot ball shortage switch signal, and an overflow switch signal to the game control device 600 when a failure such as a ball breakage or a failure occurs.

  The payout abnormality status signal is a signal output when the game ball is not paid out normally. The payout chute ball switch signal is a signal that is output when there is a shortage of game balls before payout. The overflow switch signal is a signal output when a predetermined amount or more of game balls are stored in the lower plate 14 (see FIG. 1).

  The effect control device 700 receives a data strobe signal (SSTB) from the port 631a of the output unit 630 and an 8-bit data signal from the port 631b via the buffer 632a. The data strobe signal (SSTB) is a 1-bit signal indicating whether data is valid or invalid. The 8 + 1 bit signal (subcommand) from the buffer 632a is output by parallel communication. The buffer 632a is provided to secure one-way communication so that a signal cannot be transmitted from the effect control device 700 to the game control device 600. The subcommands transmitted to the effect control device 700 include effect control command signals such as a change start command, a customer waiting demo command, a fanfare command, a probability information command, and an error designation command.

  A signal output from the CPU unit 610 is input to the special prize opening solenoid 28 and the general electric solenoid 27 via the port 631c and the driver 633a. The large winning opening solenoid 28 rotates the opening / closing door 41a (see FIG. 2) of the special variable winning winning apparatus 41, and the general electric solenoid 27 has a movable receiving portion of the second starting winning opening 38 disposed behind the decorative board 39. Move back and forth.

  The collective display device includes a gaming state notification LED 12 and a state indicator. The anode terminal of the LEDs of the collective display device is connected to a driver 633c via a segment line, and the driver 633c and the port 631d are connected. The cathode terminal of the LED of the collective display device is connected to a driver 633b through a digit line, and the driver 633b and the port 631c are connected. The on / off drive signal from the driver 633c is input to the anode terminal of the LED of the collective display device, and the on / off drive signal is output to the driver 633b from the cathode terminal of the LED of the collective display device.

  The external information terminal 660 is a terminal for outputting game data such as a start signal indicating the start of the variable display game and a special prize signal indicating the occurrence of the big hit gaming state to the information collecting terminal device. The game data is output to the external information terminal 660 via the port 631e and the driver 633d.

  The game control device 600 is configured to be connectable to an external test test device via a relay board (not shown). The test firing test apparatus is an apparatus for performing a type test of the gaming machine 1 in a predetermined engine. The test firing test apparatus includes signals from the first start port switch 601, the second start port switch 602, the gate switch 603, the winning port switches 604a to 604n, and the count switch 605, the big winning port solenoid 28, and the general electric solenoid. A signal necessary for the trial test, such as a signal output to 27, is input.

  The game control device 600 is connected to the power supply device 800 via a Schmitt circuit 624 provided in the input unit 620. The Schmitt circuit 624 is a circuit that removes fluctuation (noise) of the input signal in order to prevent the operation of the gaming machine 1 from becoming unstable when the power is turned on or when the power is turned off. The Schmitt circuit 624 receives a power failure monitoring signal, an initialization switch signal, and a reset signal from the power supply device 800.

  The power supply device 800 includes a normal power supply unit including an AC-DC converter that generates a DC32V DC voltage from a 24V AC power supply, and a DC-DC converter that generates a lower level DC voltage such as DC12V and DC5V from the DC32V voltage. 810, a backup power supply unit 820 that supplies a power supply voltage to the RAM 611c in the gaming microcomputer 611 at the time of a power failure, a power failure monitoring circuit and an initialization switch, and notifies the game control device 600 of the occurrence and recovery of the power failure And a control signal generation unit 830 that generates and outputs control signals such as a power failure monitoring signal, an initialization switch signal, and a reset signal.

  The backup power supply unit 820 is a power supply for backing up game data stored in the RAM 611c of the game microcomputer 611. After the power failure is restored, the game control device 600 restores the gaming state before the power failure based on the game data held in the RAM 611c.

  The control signal generator 830 monitors the input voltage (guaranteed DC 32V) of the switching regulator that generates DC 12V and DC 5V. When the detected voltage is DC 17.2 V to DC 20.0 V, it is determined that there is a power failure, and a power failure monitoring signal is output from the control signal generation unit 830. The power failure monitoring signal is input to the input port 623 of the input unit 620 via the Schmitt circuit 624. After the power failure monitoring signal is output, the power failure monitoring circuit outputs a reset signal. The reset signal is input to each port 631a to 631e of the gaming microcomputer 611 and the output unit 630 via the Schmitt circuit 624. When the game control device 600 receives the power failure monitoring signal, the game control device 600 performs a predetermined power failure process, and stops the operation of the CPU unit 610 after receiving the reset signal.

  The control signal generation unit 830 includes an initialization switch (not shown), and an initialization switch signal is output from the control signal generation unit 830 when the initialization switch is in an ON state when the power is turned on. The initialization switch signal is input to the input port 623 of the input unit 620 via the Schmitt circuit 624. The initialization switch signal is a signal for forcibly initializing information stored in the RAM 611c of the gaming microcomputer 611 and the RAM of the payout control device 640.

  An effect control device (effect control means) 700 shown in FIG. 4 includes a main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 710 composed of an amusement chip (IC) and a main control microcomputer 710 in the same manner as the game microcomputer 611 of the game control device 600. A video control microcomputer (2ndCPU) 720 that performs video control under control, and a VDP that performs image processing for video display on the variable display device 35 (see FIG. 2) according to commands and data from the video control microcomputer 720 (Video Display Processor) 730 and a sound source LSI 705 that reproduces various melodies and sound effects from the upper speaker 10a and the lower speaker 10b.

  PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory) 702 and 703 storing programs executed by the CPUs are connected to the main control microcomputer 710 and the video control microcomputer 720, respectively. Character images and video data are stored in the VDP 730. An image ROM 704 is connected, and an audio ROM 706 storing audio data is connected to the tone generator LSI 705. The main control microcomputer 710 analyzes the command from the game microcomputer 611 of the game control device 600, instructs the video control microcomputer 720 about the contents of the output video, instructs the sound source LSI 705 to reproduce the sound, LEDs, etc. Processing such as lighting, motor drive control, production time management, etc. is executed.

  RAMs 711 and 721 that provide work areas for the main control microcomputer 710 and the video control microcomputer 720 are provided in the respective chips. The RAMs 711 and 721 that provide the work area may be provided outside the chip.

  Data transmission / reception is performed between the main control microcomputer 710 and the video control microcomputer 720 and between the main control microcomputer 710 and the tone generator LSI 705 in a serial manner. In contrast, the main control microcomputer 710 and the VDP 730 are configured to transmit and receive data in a parallel manner. By transmitting and receiving data in the parallel system, commands and data can be transmitted in a shorter time than in the serial system.

  The VDP 730 includes an ultrahigh-speed VRAM (video RAM) 731 used for expanding and processing image data such as characters read from the image ROM 704, and a scaler 732 for enlarging and reducing the image. , And a signal conversion circuit 733 for generating a video signal to be transmitted to the variation display device 35 by the LVDS (small amplitude signal transmission) method.

  A vertical synchronization signal VSYNC is output from the VDP 730 to the main control microcomputer 710 in order to synchronize the image of the variation display device 35 and the lighting of LEDs and the like provided on the front frame 5 and the game board 30. Also, the VDP 730 notifies the video control microcomputer 720 that it is waiting to receive commands and data from the interrupt signals INT0 to n and the video control microcomputer 720 in order to notify the processing status such as the end of drawing in the VRAM 731. A wait signal WAIT is output.

  From the video control microcomputer 720 to the main control microcomputer 710, a synchronization signal SYNC for notifying that the video control microcomputer 720 is operating normally and giving command transmission timing is output.

  Between the main control microcomputer 710 and the tone generator LSI 705, an interrogation signal CTS and a response signal RTS are exchanged in order to transmit and receive commands and data by the handshake method.

  The video control microcomputer 720 uses a CPU that is faster than the main control microcomputer 710. By providing a video control microcomputer 720 separately from the main control microcomputer 710 and sharing the processing, it is possible to display a fast moving image on a large screen, which is difficult to achieve with the main control microcomputer 710 alone, on the variable display device 35. In addition to this, an increase in cost can be suppressed as compared with the case where two CPUs having processing capabilities equivalent to those of the video control microcomputer 720 are used.

  The effect control device 700 includes an interface chip (command I / F) 701 for receiving a command transmitted from the game control device 600. The effect control device 700 receives the change start command, the customer waiting demo command, the fanfare command, the probability information command, the error designation command, and the like transmitted from the game control device 600 as the effect control command signal via the command I / F 701. To do. Since the game microcomputer 611 of the game control device 600 operates at DC 5V and the main control microcomputer 710 of the effect control device 700 operates at DC 3.3V, the command I / F 701 is provided with a signal level conversion function. Yes.

  The effect control device 700 includes a panel decoration LED control circuit 741 that controls a panel decoration device 760 including LEDs and the like provided on the center case 34 and the game board 30, and a frame decoration device 21 that includes LEDs and the like provided on the front frame 5 and the like. The frame decoration LED control circuit 742 for controlling the display, the board effect motor / SOL (drive control for the board effect device 770 including the electric accessory and the effect device 70 which enhance the effect of the effect in cooperation with the effect display on the variable display device 35) Solenoid) control circuit 743, and a frame effect motor control circuit 744 for driving and controlling the frame effect device 22 including an illumination drive motor for the movable illumination 9 and the like are provided. These control circuits 741 to 744 are connected to the main control microcomputer 710 via an address / data bus 740.

  The effect control device 700 also includes an effect button switch (SW) 17a for detecting that the effect button 17 (see FIG. 1) is operated, and an effect motor switch (SW) for detecting that various drive motors are driven. A switch (SW) input circuit 750 that detects the ON / OFF state of 752 and transmits a detection signal to the main control microcomputer 710 is provided. The effect button 17 includes a main button 170, direction buttons 171 to 174, and a sub button 175. Similarly, the effect button SW17a includes a main button SW 170a, direction buttons SW171a to 174a, and a sub button SW 175a.

  The switch (SW) input circuit 750 is connected to a volume switching SW 753 for adjusting the volume of the sound output from the speaker 10 via the amplifier circuit. Furthermore, the effect control device 700 is provided with amplifier circuits 707 and 708 including audio power amplifiers for driving the upper speaker 10a and the lower speaker 10b.

  The gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment employs a technique for adding data and commands (digital data) to the output sound, and can transmit digital data to an external device by voice output. For example, “direct spectrum spread”, which spreads and transmits digital signals over a wide band, transmits data using a band (second frequency range) that is hardly audible to humans but can be reproduced by a normal speaker. . Furthermore, it is possible to simultaneously output music, announcement sound, etc. in the audible region (first frequency region) together with the digital signal. As described above, in the gaming machine according to the present embodiment, it is possible to transmit data to an external device while performing an effect using sound similar to that of a conventional gaming machine.

  “Digital data” refers to data for causing an external device equipped with a speaker such as a mobile phone to output a predetermined sound effect with the speaker of the external device, or for an external device equipped with a display device. Includes data for displaying images and videos. For example, it is possible to provide a gaming machine in which an earphone or the like is connected to an external device capable of outputting sound effects such as a mobile phone so that only individuals can enjoy the sound effects. Alternatively, an external device may be a card unit, and an earphone or the like may be connected to a terminal provided in the card unit so that only an individual can enjoy sound effects.

  The volume switching SW 753 can adjust only the volume of the effect sound (effect sound effect) independently of the data sound (data effect sound). Specifically, the volume of the effect sound for production is adjusted by adjusting the volume by the volume switching SW 753 (voice volume), but the volume of the sound effect for data is not adjusted, but is kept constant. It is configured to be able to.

  Furthermore, the effect control device 700 includes command receiving means 780 for receiving a command transmitted from an external device (another gaming machine). The command receiving means 780 receives a command transmitted from an external device (another game machine) and notifies the main control microcomputer 710 of the command. In addition to the command, it functions as a game environment information input means for receiving information (game environment information) related to the game effect display. The main control microcomputer 710 updates the content of the effect based on the notified command, and executes the effect related to other players.

  As described above, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, data can be added to the sound output from the speaker 10, and the gaming environment information is output as a sound from the speaker 10. In this case, the command receiving means 780 receives game input and receives game environment information and commands by analyzing a digital signal included in the input sound.

  By configuring as described above, one-way information can be exchanged without connecting the gaming machines with a connector or the like, so that it is difficult to perform an illegal act, and a more fair game can be realized. In addition, since it is not necessary to connect each game machine directly, it is possible to minimize the renovation of the game hall facilities.

  In the present embodiment, the external device can be used as another adjacent gaming machine, but the external device may be a mobile terminal such as a player's mobile phone. When the external device is a mobile terminal such as a mobile phone, digital data can be transmitted as game information and displayed on the mobile terminal, or a URL for distributing a standby image or the like can be transmitted. Further, the external device may be a card unit, and game information transmitted as digital data may be output to a display screen provided in the card unit.

  Furthermore, special digital data may be output when a failure occurs or when fraud is detected. Then, a notification sound or the like may be output from an external device, or an alarm sound may be output when passing through a specific detection device (for example, a gate installed in a game arcade) when fraud is detected. It may be.

  The normal power supply unit 810 of the power supply device 800 is configured to be able to generate a plurality of types of voltages in order to supply a predetermined level of DC voltage to the effect control device 700 and the electronic components controlled by the effect control device 700. ing. Specifically, in addition to DC 32V for driving the drive motor and solenoid, DC 12V for driving the variable display device 35 including a liquid crystal panel, DC 5V serving as the power supply voltage of the command I / F 701, the upper speaker 10a and It is possible to generate a DC 18V for driving the lower speaker 10b and a voltage of NDC 24V used as a reference for these DC voltages or for turning on the power monitor lamp.

  The reset signal RST generated by the control signal generation unit 830 of the power supply device 800 is supplied to the main control microcomputer 710, the video control microcomputer 720, the VDP 730, the tone generator LSI 705, and the various control circuits 741 to 744, 707, and 708. To the reset state. The power supply device 800 has a function of generating and supplying a reset signal for the VDP 730 using a general-purpose port of the video control microcomputer 720. Thereby, the cooperation of the operations of the video control microcomputer 720 and the VDP 730 can be improved.

[Upper plate unit, operation (direction) button]
FIG. 5 is a view showing the upper plate cover unit 11 of the gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention, in which (A) is a front view and (B) is a perspective view.

  The upper plate cover unit 11 is provided on the lower front side of the glass frame 6 and includes an upper plate (member) 11a capable of storing game balls. The upper plate cover unit 11 has a horizontally long shape attached to the front side of the glass frame 6.

  The upper plate cover unit 11 includes a speaker cover portion 11b that opens in a slightly upward direction on the front side in the lower left portion. The speaker cover portion 11b is disposed so that the output portion of the lower speaker 10b is fitted. An effect button 17 is disposed on the upper surface of the upper plate cover unit 11.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the effect buttons 17 of the gaming machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The effect button 17 includes a main button 170, direction buttons 171 to 174, and a sub button 175. An opening for placing the sub button 175 is provided on the outer periphery of the cover 178 of the effect button 17.

  The main button 170 determines the operation of the character displayed on the variable display device 35 and determines an item to be selected. The direction buttons 171 to 174 move the character displayed on the variable display device 35 (change the position of the character) or select an item. The sub button 175 causes the character to take an action different from that when the main button 170 is operated, or cancels the selected item.

  The main button 170, the direction buttons 171 to 174, and the sub button 175 are urged by a spring toward the upper side of the upper plate cover unit 11, and are operated by being pressed by the player. When the effect button 17 is operated, a signal corresponding to each button is output. For example, the main button 170 outputs a main operation signal, the sub button 175 outputs a sub operation signal, and an operation signal corresponding to each direction button.

[Main processing (game control device)]
First, the main process will be described. FIG. 7A is a flowchart of the first half of the main processing according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7B is a flowchart of the latter half of the main process according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The main process is started when the gaming machine 1 is powered on. For example, it is executed when a gaming machine is turned on to start business at a game hall or when a power failure is restored.

  When the main process is executed, the game control device 600 first prohibits interruption (A1001). Next, interrupt vector setting processing for setting a vector address indicating a jump destination executed when an interrupt occurs is executed (A1002). Furthermore, a stack pointer that is the head address of an area for saving a value of a register or the like when an interrupt occurs is set (A1003). Further, an interrupt processing mode is set (A1004).

  Next, the game control device 600 stands by until the program of the payout control device (payout board) 640 starts normally (A1005). For example, wait for 4 milliseconds. By controlling in this way, when the power is turned on, the game control device 600 is started first and the command is transmitted to the payout control device 640 before the start-up of the payout control device 640 is completed. , It can be avoided that the payout control device 640 misses the transmitted command.

  Thereafter, the game control device 600 permits access to a read / write RWM (read / write memory) such as a RAM or EEPROM (A1006). Further, all output ports are set to off (no output) (A1007). In addition, the serial port preinstalled in the gaming microcomputer 611 is set not to be used (A1008). This is because the serial port is not used because parallel communication is performed with the payout control device 640 and the effect control device 700 in the present embodiment.

  Subsequently, the game control device 600 determines whether or not the initialization switch signal in the power supply device 800 is set to ON (A1009). The initialization switch signal is a signal for setting whether or not to start a game in an initialized state when the gaming machine 1 is powered on.

  For example, if the power is turned off while the store is closed, etc., and the power is turned on when the store opens the next day, the initialization switch signal is set to ON so that the game starts in the initialized state. Is done. On the other hand, when the power is turned on again after a power failure, the initialization switch signal is turned off so that the game machine is not initialized in order to resume the game as close to the gaming state as possible before the power failure. Is set.

  When the initialization switch signal is set to OFF (the result of A1009 is “N”), the game control device 600 checks whether the data in the power failure inspection area in the RWM is normal (A1010). ~ A1013). More specifically, the power outage inspection area includes a power outage inspection area 1 and a power outage inspection area 2. The power failure inspection area 1 stores power failure inspection area check data 1, and the power failure inspection area 2 stores power failure inspection area check data 2. In the processing of step A1010 and step A1011, it is checked whether or not the power failure inspection area check data 1 stored in the power failure inspection area 1 is normal. Similarly, in the processing of step A1012 and step A1013, it is checked whether or not the power failure inspection area check data 2 stored in the power failure inspection area 2 is normal.

  When it is determined that the power failure inspection area check data in the power failure inspection area in the RWM is normal (the result of A1013 is “Y”), the game control device 600 performs a check to calculate verification data called a checksum. Sum calculation processing is executed (A1014).

  Then, the game control device 600 compares the checksum value calculated in the checksum calculation process with the checksum value calculated when the power is turned off (A1015), and determines whether these values match. Determine (A1016).

  On the other hand, in the game control device 600, when the initialization switch signal is set to ON (the result of A1009 is “Y”), the value of the power failure inspection area is not normal (the result of A1011 or A1013 is “N”). If the checksum value at power-off and the checksum value calculated in step A1014 do not match (result of A1016 is “N”), the initial values from step A1039 to step A1043 in FIG. Execute the conversion process. Details of the initialization process will be described later.

  When the calculated checksum value matches the checksum value at the time of power-off (the result of A1016 is “Y”), the game control apparatus 600 has executed the power failure processing normally, and therefore The process for restoring to the state is executed (A1017 to A1023 in FIG. 7B). First, an area in the RWM (read / write memory: RAM in the embodiment) in which information for determining whether or not the information at the time of a power failure has been normally stored is cleared (initialized). Specifically, all the power outage inspection areas are cleared (A1017), and the area where the checksum is stored is cleared (A1018). Further, an area for storing error-related information and information for monitoring fraud is reset (A1019).

  Next, the game control device 600 determines whether or not the game state at the time of the power failure is a high probability state from the area for storing the game state in the RWM (A1020). If it is determined that the probability is not high (the result of A1020 is “N”), the processing after step A1023 is executed.

  In addition, when it is determined that the gaming state at the time of the power outage is a high probability state (the result of A1020 is “Y”), the game control device 600 sets the high probability notification flag to ON and performs the high probability notification. Save to the flag area (A1021). Subsequently, the high-probability notification LED (third gaming state indicator 58) provided in the collective display device 50 is set to ON (lighted) (A1022).

  Further, the game control device 600 transmits a command at the time of power failure recovery corresponding to the special figure game process number to the effect control device 700 (A1023). The special figure game process number is a number indicating the state of the special figure game, and is stored in a predetermined area of the RWM when a power failure occurs. In this way, by transmitting the power failure recovery command corresponding to the special figure game process number to the effect control device 700, the game can be resumed in a state as close as possible to before the power failure occurs.

  Here, a case where the initialization process is executed will be described. As described above, the initialization process is executed when a gaming machine that has been normally powered off is activated or when it cannot return to the state before the occurrence of a power failure.

  In the initialization process, the game control device 600 first clears all work areas before the access prohibited area (A1039). Further, all stack areas after the access prohibited area are cleared (A1040). Then, an initial value for power-on is saved in the initialized area (A1041).

  Subsequently, the game control apparatus 600 sets a time value corresponding to the period for outputting the external information related to RWM clear (A1042). Then, at the end of the initialization process, a command for turning on the power is transmitted to the effect control device 700 (A1043), and the processes after step A1024 are executed.

  When the processing of step A1023B or step A1043 is completed, the gaming control device 600 includes a CTC (Counter / Timer Circuit) circuit that generates a timer interrupt signal and a random number update trigger signal (CTC) in the gaming microcomputer 611 (clock generator). Start (A1024).

  The CTC circuit is provided in a clock generator in the gaming microcomputer 611. The clock generator includes a frequency dividing circuit that divides the oscillation signal (original clock signal) from the crystal oscillator 613 and the CTC circuit described above. The timer interrupt signal is a signal for causing the CPU 611a to generate a timer interrupt with a predetermined period (for example, 4 milliseconds) based on the divided signal. The random number update trigger signal (CTC) is supplied to the random number generation circuit based on the divided signal, and the random number generation circuit serves as a trigger for updating the random number.

  When the CTC circuit is activated, the game control device 600 performs activation setting for the random number generation circuit (A1025). Specifically, the CPU 611a executes processing such as setting a code (specified value) for starting the random number generation circuit in a predetermined register (CTC update permission register) in the random number generation circuit. Further, the values of predetermined registers (soft random number registers 1 to n) in the random number generation circuit at the time of power-on are saved in predetermined areas of the RWM as initial values (start values) of various initial value random numbers (A1026). . Thereafter, the game control device 600 permits an interrupt (A1027).

  Note that the random number generation circuit in the CPU 611a of the present embodiment is configured such that the initial value of the soft random number register is changed each time the power is turned on, and initial values of various initial value random numbers are based on the initial value of the soft random number register. By setting a value (start value), it becomes possible to break the regularity of random numbers generated by software, making it difficult for a player to acquire illegal random numbers. The various initial value random numbers include, for example, a random number for determining a jackpot symbol (big hit symbol random number 1, a jackpot symbol random number 2), and a random number for determining a hit of a normal variation display game (a hit random number).

  Subsequently, the game control device 600 executes an initial value random number update process for updating the values of various initial value random numbers and breaking the regularity of the random numbers (A1028). In the present embodiment, the big hit random number is configured to be generated using a random number generated in the random number generation circuit. That is, the big hit random number is a hard random number generated by hardware, and the big hit symbol random number, the hit random number, and the variation pattern random number are soft random numbers generated by software. Note that the source of various random numbers is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and the big hit random number may be a software random number, or the big hit symbol random number, the hit random number, and the variation pattern random number may be a hardware random number. .

  Further, after the initial value random number update process is executed, the game control device 600 sets the number of times of checking the power failure monitoring signal input from the power supply device 800 and read through the port and the data bus (A1029). Normally, a value of 2 or more is set as the number of checks. It is possible to determine whether or not a power failure has occurred by checking the power failure monitoring signal. The game control device 600 determines whether or not the power failure monitoring signal is on (A1030). When the power failure monitoring signal is not on, that is, when there is no power failure (the result of A1030 is “N”), the initial value random number update processing of step A1028 is executed again, and the processing from step A1028 to step A1030 is repeated. Execute (loop processing).

  Also, by permitting an interrupt (A1027) before the initial value random number update process (A1028), if a timer interrupt occurs during the initial value random number update process, the interrupt process can be preferentially executed. Become. Accordingly, since the timer interrupt process cannot be executed until the execution of the initial value random number update process is completed, it is possible to avoid a shortage of time for executing various processes included in the interrupt process.

  In the initial value random number update process (A1028), the initial value random number update process may be executed by a timer interrupt process in addition to the main process. However, when the initial value random number update process is executed in the timer interrupt process, an interrupt is issued during the initial value random number update process in the main process in order to avoid executing the initial value random number update process in both processes. It is prohibited to release the interrupt after updating the initial random number. However, if the initial value random number update process is not executed in the timer interrupt process and the initial value random number update process is executed only in the main process as in this embodiment, the interrupt can be canceled before the initial value random number update process. There is no problem, and there is an advantage that the main processing is simplified.

  On the other hand, when the power failure monitoring signal is set to ON (the result of A1030 is “Y”), the game control device 600 indicates that the number of times that the power failure monitoring signal is continuously detected is detected. It is determined whether the number of checks set in step A1029 has been reached (A1031). If the number of times that the power failure monitoring signal is set to ON is not reached the number of checks (result of A1031 is “N”), whether or not the power failure monitoring signal is ON again. Is determined (A1030). That is, when the power failure monitoring signal is on, it is determined whether or not the power failure monitoring signal is on for the number of checks.

  When the number of times that the power failure monitoring signal is continuously turned on reaches the number of checks (the result of A1031 is “Y”), the game control device 600 considers that a power failure has occurred. Then, processing at the time of occurrence of a power failure is executed (A1032 to A1038).

  The game control device 600 prohibits interruption (A1032) and sets all output ports to off (A1033). Thereafter, the power failure recovery inspection region check data 1 is saved in the power failure recovery inspection region 1 (A1034), and further, the power failure recovery inspection region check data 2 is saved in the power failure recovery inspection region 2 (A1035).

  Furthermore, the game control device 600 executes a checksum calculation process for calculating a checksum when the RWM is turned off (A1036), and saves (saves) the calculated checksum value in the checksum area of the RWM ( A1037). Finally, access to the RWM is prohibited so that the contents of the RWM are not changed (A1038), and the system waits until the power of the gaming machine 1 is cut off. In this way, by saving check data in the power failure recovery inspection area and calculating and storing the checksum at the time of power-off, the information stored in the RWM before power-off is correctly backed up. It is possible to determine when the power is turned on again.

[Timer interrupt processing (game control device)]
Next, timer interrupt processing will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a procedure of timer interrupt processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The timer interrupt process is started when a periodic (for example, 1 millisecond cycle) timer interrupt signal generated by the CTC circuit in the clock generator is input to the CPU 611a.

  When the timer interrupt process is started, the game control device 600 first saves the register by moving the value held in the predetermined register to the RWM (A1101). In this embodiment, a Z80 microcomputer is used as the game microcomputer. The Z80 microcomputer has a front register and a back register, and the processing in step A1101 can be implemented by saving the value held in the front register to the back register.

  Next, the game control device 600 executes input processing for acquiring input signals from various sensors and switches input via the input unit 620 and reading the state of each input port (A1102). The various sensors include a first start port switch 601, a second start port switch 602, a conventional gate switch 603, a count switch 605, and the like. In the input process, the input information is confirmed by performing chattering removal or the like on the input signal.

  Further, the game control device 600 executes output processing for transmitting output data related to game control set in various processes to the effect control device 700 and the payout control device 640 (A1103). The output data is information for performing drive control of an actuator such as a solenoid, and the solenoids to be controlled include, for example, a big prize opening solenoid 28 and a general electric solenoid 27. The output process also includes a process of outputting game data to an information collecting terminal device (not shown) that collects game data in the gaming machine.

  Next, the game control device 600 executes a command transmission process for transmitting (outputting) the command set in the transmission buffer in various processes to the effect control device 700, the payout control device 640, etc. (A1104). Specifically, the effect control device 700 includes a change pattern designation command for designating the change pattern of the identification information in the special figure change display game, and a power failure recovery command for causing the effect control device 700 to execute the power failure recovery process when recovering from the power failure. Or a prize ball command specifying the number of prize balls to be paid out from the payout device is sent to the payout control device 640.

  Further, the game control device 600 executes a random number update process 1 for updating the jackpot symbol random number 1 and the jackpot symbol random number 2 (A1105), and subsequently uses a variation pattern random number for determining the variation pattern in the special diagram variation display game. Random number update processing 2 to be updated is executed (A1106). In random number update processing 1 and random number update processing 2, in order to give randomness to various random numbers, the values of counters corresponding to various random numbers (big hit random number counter, hit random number counter, presentation determination random number counter, etc.) are incremented by one To do.

  After that, the game control device 600 executes a winning port switch / error monitoring process for monitoring various winning port switches and the like, and monitoring errors such as unauthorized opening of a frame (A1107). The various winning opening switches include, for example, a first starting opening switch 601, a second starting opening switch 602, a gate switch 603, winning opening switches 604a to 604n, and a count switch 605. In the prize opening switch / error monitoring process, it is monitored whether a normal signal is input from these switches. As for error monitoring, the front frame 5 and the glass frame 6 are targeted for unauthorized opening.

  Further, the game control device 600 executes special figure game processing for performing processing related to the special figure variation display game (A1108). Details of the special game process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Subsequently, the game control device 600 executes a general game process for performing a process related to the general map display game (A1109).

  Next, the game control device 600 executes a segment LED editing process for controlling the display contents of the segment LED for displaying the special figure variation game and various information related to the game (A1110). Specifically, the parameters for outputting the results of the special map variation display game and the general map variation display game to the segment LED (for example, the collective display device 50) are edited.

  The game control device 600 checks a detection signal from the magnetic sensor switch 23 or the vibration sensor switch 24 and executes a magnet error monitoring process for determining whether there is an abnormality (A1111). When the occurrence of an abnormality is detected, a notification sound is output from the speaker 10 or the gaming state notification LED 12 is turned on to notify the outside.

  Next, the game control device 600 executes an external information editing process for editing various signals output from the external information terminal 660 (A1112).

  Then, the game control device 600 clears the interrupt request and declares the end of the interrupt (A1113). Thereafter, the register temporarily saved in the process of step A1101 is restored (A1114), the interrupt and timer interrupt by the prohibited external device are permitted (A1115), the timer interrupt process is terminated, and the process returns to the main process. To do.

[Special Figure Game Processing]
Next, the details of the special game process (A1108) in the timer interrupt process described above will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the special figure game process according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  In the special figure game process, input signal monitoring by the first start opening switch 601 and the second start opening switch 602, control of the entire process related to the special figure variation display game, and setting of display of the special figure (identification symbol, identification information) are set. Do.

  When the special figure game process is started, the game control device 600 first executes a start switch monitoring process for monitoring winnings of the first start port switch 601 and the second start port switch 602 (A1201).

  In the start port switch monitoring process, when a game ball wins at the first start winning port 37 and the second start winning port 38, various random numbers (such as big hit random numbers) are extracted, and a special variable display game based on the win Prior to the start of the game, a game result pre-determination is made to pre-determine a game result based on a prize.

  Next, the game control device 600 executes a count switch monitoring process (A1202). In the count switch monitoring process, a game ball won in the special variable winning device 41 is detected by a count switch 605 provided in the special variable winning device 41, and the number of winning game balls is monitored.

  Next, the game control device 600 determines whether or not the special figure game process timer has already expired or the special figure game process timer has expired as a result of updating (-1) the special figure game process timer. Is checked (A1203). Note that the special figure game processing timer is set with an initial value of the variation time of the special figure fluctuation display game to be executed, and the value of the special figure game processing timer is decremented by 1 in the process of step A1203. When the value of the special figure game processing timer becomes 0, it is determined that the time is up.

  When the special game process timer has not expired (the result of A1204 is “N”), the game control apparatus 600 executes the processes after step A1216.

  On the other hand, when the special game process timer expires (the result of A1204 is “Y”), the game control device 600 refers to the special game sequence to be branched to the process corresponding to the special game process number. The branch table is set in the register (A1205). Further, the branch destination address of the process corresponding to the special figure game process number is acquired based on the table (A1206). Then, the return address after the branch process ends is saved in the stack area (A1207), and the process is branched according to the game process number (A1208).

  When the game process number is “0” (the result of A1208 is “0”), the game control device 600 executes a special figure routine process (A1209). The special chart routine process monitors the fluctuation start of the special figure fluctuation display game, sets the fluctuation start of the special figure fluctuation display game, sets the effects, sets the information necessary to execute the special figure fluctuation processing, etc. Do.

  When the game process number is “1” (the result of A1208 is “1”), the game control device 600 executes the special figure changing process (A1210). In the special figure changing process, the stop display time of the identification information in the special figure changing display game, the setting of information necessary for performing the special figure display process, and the like are performed.

  When the game process number is “2” (the result of A1208 is “2”), the game control apparatus 600 executes a special figure display process (A1211). In the special figure display process, if the result of the special figure fluctuation display game is a big hit, the fanfare command setting according to the type of the big hit, the fanfare time corresponding to the big winning opening opening pattern of each big hit, Information necessary for performing fanfare / interval processing is set.

  When the game process number is “3” (the result of A1208 is “3”), the game control apparatus 600 executes the fanfare / interval process (A1212). In the fanfare / interval processing, setting of the opening time of the big prize opening, updating of the number of times of opening, setting of information necessary for performing the processing during opening of the big prize opening, and the like are performed.

  When the game process number is “4” (the result of A1208 is “4”), the game control apparatus 600 executes a special winning opening opening process (A1213). The processing during opening of the big prize opening is necessary to set an interval command if the big hit round is not the final round, while setting the command of the big hit end screen if the big round is the final round, or to perform the big prize opening remaining ball processing Set information.

  When the game process number is “5” (the result of A1208 is “5”), the game control device 600 executes the big winning opening remaining ball process (A1214). In the winning ball remaining ball processing, when the big hit round is the final round, the time for the remaining ball in the big winning mouth to be discharged is set, or the information necessary to perform the big hit end processing is set Or

  In the winning prize remaining ball process, information necessary for updating the special symbol process timer and performing the fanfare / interval process or the big hit end process is set. In addition, it is determined whether the maximum opening time of the grand prize opening has elapsed, or a predetermined number (predetermined number) of game balls have been won in the big prize opening, and the opening / closing door 41a is closed when any of the conditions is met. To do. After this is repeated for a predetermined number of rounds, the special figure game process number is set to 6.

  When the game process number is “6” (the result of A1208 is “6”), the game control apparatus 600 executes a jackpot end process (A1215). In the jackpot end process, information necessary for performing the special figure routine process in step A1209 is set.

  After that, the game control device 600 prepares a table for controlling the variation of symbols in the collective display device in the special figure fluctuation display game (first special figure fluctuation display game, second special figure fluctuation display game) (A1216). . Subsequently, the symbol variation control process related to the collective display device is executed (A1217).

[Outline of production display]
Next, a configuration and procedure for changing the content of the presentation of the own machine based on the gaming state (gaming environment information) of another gaming machine will be specifically described. In the present embodiment, an effect in which the character becomes an adventurer and adventures is executed. Then, an effect based on the gaming state of the other gaming machine is executed, such as encountering a character of another gaming machine during the adventure process.

  In addition, the main effect is displayed on the first display unit 35 a of the variable display device 35, and the position information of the character is displayed on the second display unit 48. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an overview of each display unit according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  As described above, the main display content is displayed on the first display unit 35a. Specifically, a hero character 200, a background object 210, a decoration variation pattern 250, and the like corresponding to the player are displayed.

  In addition, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, characters other than the main character can be displayed. The point of displaying characters other than the main character will be described later. The background object is an object constituting the background of the current location of the main character. In FIG. 10, an object simulating a tree (forest) is shown as an example, but mountains, seas, buildings, and the like are also included. The decorative variation symbol 250 is identification information composed of three numbers and the like, and is displayed in a variable manner corresponding to the special diagram variation display game.

  A second display unit 48 is disposed on the lower right side of the first display unit 35a (see FIG. 2). The 2nd display part 48 is good also as a partial area | region of the 1st display part 35a, and should just display the relevant information of an effect. In the present embodiment, map information including the position information of the background object is stored in the effect control device 700, and based on this map information, the background object and the surrounding objects arranged around the character corresponding to the player Position information (area information) such as other characters existing in the predetermined range is displayed so as to be grasped. Details of the second display unit 48 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12.

[Map information (character position information)]
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the second display unit 48 showing map information and character position information according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 11A, the second display unit 48 is divided in a grid pattern, and the position of the main character 200 corresponds to the center of the second display unit 48. Then, a map combination (area information) 220 indicating the situation around the character 200 is arranged. In this embodiment, the map feature is indicated by characters such as “mountain” and “river”, but it may be displayed like a map, or a picture or symbol indicating “mountain” or “river” is arranged. Alternatively, the area may be filled with a corresponding color.

  As shown in FIG. 11B, coordinates are assigned to a region divided in a grid pattern. The coordinates are set so that the center position of the character 200 is always (0, 0), the value of the X coordinate is increased in the right direction, and the value of the Y coordinate is increased in the upward direction. .

  Further, when the character 200 moves, the map combination placed in each area is not changed, but the position of the character 200 is fixed at (0, 0) instead of changing the position of the character 200 on the second display unit 48. Move things. The display on the second display unit 48 accompanying the movement of the character 200 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the display on the second display unit 48 when the character moves according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The character moves by operating the direction buttons 171 to 174 included in the effect button 17. As described above, since the position of the character is fixed at the center, the map combination (area information) 220 in each area is changed.

  Referring to FIG. 12 as an example, when the direction button 174 for moving the character to the left in the state of (A) is operated, the background (map accessory) is displayed in the direction of the character's progression, as shown in (B). Reverse, that is, go right. By controlling in this way, the character can be relatively advanced in the left direction. Similarly, when moving the character in another direction, the character can be moved in the traveling direction by moving the background in the opposite direction of the character's traveling direction.

[Direction display]
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating display contents of the first display unit 35a and the second display unit 48 according to the embodiment of the present invention. (A) shows the first display part 35a, and (B) shows the second display part 48.

  In (A), the character 200 of the own machine is arranged, and when the predetermined condition is satisfied as described above, for example, the character 201 of another gaming machine is displayed (front left side). When the character 200 of the player's own machine and the character 201 of another gaming machine are in the same mode, the distinction can be made by changing the size of the character or forcibly changing some parts. You may make it turn on.

  In (A), the background object 210 is displayed together with the main character. The background object 210 corresponds to the map combination placed at the center position indicating the position of the main character in (B). In (B), the map combination corresponding to the forest is arranged at the position of the main character, and the background object 210 (forest) corresponding to (A) is displayed. The map combination inside (four regions) of the central circle of (B) is reflected on the first display portion 35a. A specific display mode such as the arrangement of each object will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating the display contents of the first display unit 35a and the second display unit 48 in the scene moving in the forest according to the embodiment of the present invention. (A) shows the first display part 35a, and (B) shows the second display part 48.

  In FIG. 14, it corresponds to a scene in which the character 200 of the own device moves in the forest. At this time, as shown in (B), the character 200 is surrounded by forests on all sides. And as shown to (A), the condition where the trees cover the circumference is displayed on the 1st display part 35a. In addition, a decoration identification symbol is displayed on the upper right of the first display unit 35a, and a decoration special figure variation display game is executed. In the first display unit 35a, the screen is configured so that the character 200 proceeds from the lower left to the upper right.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating display contents of the first display unit 35a and the second display unit 48 in the scene that has reached the riverside according to the embodiment of the present invention. (A) shows the first display part 35a, and (B) shows the second display part 48.

  FIG. 15 corresponds to a scene in which the character 200 reaches the riverside. At this time, as shown in (B), the character 200 has a forest on the left side and a river on the right side, and as shown in (A), the first display unit 35a has a left side with respect to the traveling direction of the character 200. Is a forest and the river on the right.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating display contents of the first display unit 35a and the second display unit 48 in a scene where a character corresponding to another game machine according to the embodiment of the present invention is encountered. (A) shows the first display part 35a, and (B) shows the second display part 48.

  In FIG. 16, this corresponds to a scene in which the main character 200 encounters another character 201 while moving in the forest. At this time, as shown in (B), a mark 201a indicating another character is displayed.

  Characters encountered include a character 201 corresponding to a player who is playing on another gaming machine, and a character (NPC) 202 that is not related to the other player. FIG. 16 shows a scene in which a character 201 corresponding to a player who is playing a game on another gaming machine is moving from the front.

  Embodiments of the present invention may be configured such that a character corresponding to a player of each gaming machine adventures based on individual map information, and a character corresponding to a player of another gaming machine appears. Then, when the character corresponding to each player adventures based on common map information and approaches another character, it is displayed on the first display unit 35a.

  By configuring in this way, it is possible to enjoy effects related to the characters of other players while concentrating on their own games. Also, by registering a plurality of players as a group and starting a game, it becomes possible to jointly adventure with a plurality of characters. Furthermore, the jackpot information of players in the same group may be notified.

  Furthermore, equipment such as character clothes may be acquired based on the number of jackpots or the result of a variable display game. Further, the created character may be stored so that the character can be used continuously in the next game. For example, character information may be stored in a member card, or character information may be output to the variable display device 35, and information output when the game is resumed may be input to the gaming machine. . At this time, information may be output by a barcode or the like and stored in a mobile phone or the like.

  Further, as described above, the character information may be output to an external device by including digital data in the sound output from the speaker 10. What is necessary is just to output the digital data containing the password for utilizing a character continuously, to make it receive and memorize | store in external apparatuses, such as a mobile telephone.

  FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating display contents of the first display unit 35a and the second display unit 48 in a scene where a character that does not correspond to another gaming machine according to the embodiment of the present invention is encountered. (A) shows the first display part 35a, and (B) shows the second display part 48.

  In FIG. 17, as in FIG. 16, this corresponds to a scene where the character 200 encounters a character (NPC) 202 that does not correspond to another gaming machine while moving in the forest. At this time, as shown in (B), a mark 202a indicating a character that does not correspond to another gaming machine is displayed. The character mark 202a displayed on the second display unit 48 is different from the character mark 201a of the other gaming machine.

  By configuring in this way, it is possible to execute effects related to other characters even when playing alone. That is, it is possible to produce an abundance of variations without performing an action such as setting the contents of the production at the amusement store by performing the production sharing the area information with other gaming machines as needed.

  In addition, by including digital data in the sound output from the speaker 10, it is possible to transmit character information without wiring between gaming machines by transmitting character information to other gaming machines. Become. Further, it is possible to adjust the range of the gaming machine that transmits the character information by adjusting the volume of the frequency domain in which the digital data is output.

  Furthermore, when characters corresponding to multiple players adventure based on common map information, depending on the position of the character, there is almost no chance of encountering other characters, making it difficult for events to occur. Although there is a possibility that the interest will be lowered, since the variation of the event can be increased, the production can be prevented from becoming monotonous and the interest can be improved.

[1st CPU main processing (production control device)]
Subsequently, a process executed by the effect control device 700 to perform effect display will be described. First, details of the main process executed by the effect control device 700 will be described. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a procedure of main processing executed by the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 710 of the effect control device 700 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The main process is executed when the gaming machine 1 is turned on.

  When the execution of the main process is started, the main control microcomputer (1st CPU) 710 first prohibits interruption (B1001). Next, the RAM 711 as a work area is cleared to 0 (B1002), and CPU initialization processing is executed (B1003). Thereafter, initial values necessary for executing various processes are set in the RAM 711 (B1004), and a random number initialization process is executed (B1005).

  Subsequently, the main control microcomputer 710 activates various interrupt timers for generating an interrupt at a predetermined timing (for example, 1 millisecond) (B1006), and permits the interrupt (B1007). When the interrupt is permitted, a command reception interrupt process for receiving a command transmitted from the game control device 600 is executable.

  The main control microcomputer 710 clears WDT (watchdog timer) (B1008). The WDT is activated by the above-described CPU initialization process (B1003) and monitors whether the CPU is operating normally. If the WDT is not cleared after a certain period, the WDT times out and the CPU is reset.

  Next, the main control microcomputer 710 detects an operation signal of the effect button 17 by the player, or executes a process according to the detected signal (B1009). Further, a game control command analysis process for analyzing the game control command received from the game control device 600 is executed (B1010).

  Next, the main control microcomputer 710 executes a test mode process (B1011). In the test mode process, an inspection command is received at the time of inspection at the time of shipment from the factory, and LED lighting or the like is inspected. Therefore, the test mode process is executed when the CPU is inspected at the time of factory shipment.

  Subsequently, the main control microcomputer 710 executes a 1st scene control process for controlling a scene (display content) to be displayed on the variable display device 35 based on the control command analyzed in the game control command analysis process (B1010) ( B1012). In the 1st scene control process, the display contents of the screen are controlled in an integrated manner. Also included is a pre-reading notice control process for informing in advance that a variable display game with a high expectation level of jackpot is executed. The 1st scene control process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Further, the main control microcomputer 710 executes an external device communication process for transmitting / receiving data to / from other gaming machines (B1013). Based on the data transmitted and received in the external device communication process, a game in another gaming machine is reflected in the effect content, or the effect content in the game by another player is affected. In this way, the external device communication process is executed by the effect control device 700 (main control microcomputer 710), thereby forming a game environment information input means together with the command receiving means 780. The external device communication process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Further, the main control microcomputer 710 executes a gaming machine error monitoring process for monitoring the occurrence of an abnormality in the gaming machine 1 (B1014). In addition to the abnormality relating to the effect control device 700, when a command for instructing error notification is received from the game control device 600, a predetermined process such as alarm sound notification is executed.

  Then, the main control microcomputer 710 executes an effect command editing process for editing a command transmitted to the video control microcomputer (2ndCPU) 720 (B1015).

  Further, the main control microcomputer 710 executes a sound control process for controlling the sound output from the speaker 10 (B1016). In the sound control process, in addition to the production sound, control for outputting a frequency-domain sound including digital data is performed. When the sound control processing is executed by the effect control device 700 (main control microcomputer 710), the game environment information output means is made together with the speaker 10, the amplifier circuits 707 and 708, the sound source LSI 705, and the like. The sound control process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Further, the main control microcomputer 710 executes a decoration control process for controlling a decoration device such as an LED (board decoration device 10d, frame decoration device 21) (B1017), and further includes an electric accessory driven by a motor and a solenoid. A motor / SOL control process for controlling an effect device (board effect device 10f, frame effect device 22) such as movable illumination is executed (B1018).

  Finally, the main control microcomputer 710 executes a random number update process for updating a random number such as an effect random number (B1019), and returns to the process of step B1008. Thereafter, the processing from step B1008 to step B1019 is repeated.

[External device communication processing]
Next, details of the external device communication process (B1013) in the first main process described above will be described. FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of external device communication processing according to the embodiment of this invention.

  First, the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not digital data output from an external device, that is, another game machine has been received (C1001). If digital data has not been received (the result of C1001 is “N”), this process ends.

  On the other hand, when receiving the digital data (the result of C1001 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not the game character information is included in the digital data (C1002). When the game data information is not included in the digital data (the result of C1002 is “N”), this process is terminated.

  When the digital character contains game character information (result of C1002 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer 710 obtains the game character information from the digital data (C1003), and uses the content of the game character information. Confirm (C1004). As a result, the acquired game character information can be reflected in the effect contents.

  Further, the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not a mutual effect command is included in the digital data (C1005). If the mutual data command is not included in the digital data (the result of C1005 is “N”), this process ends. As described above, the mutual effect means that a character of another game machine appears in the effect of the own machine, or a character of the own machine appears in the effect of another game machine.

  When the interactive data command is included in the digital data (the result of C1004 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer 710 acquires the interactive effect command from the digital data (C1005), and stores the content of the interactive effect command. Confirm (C1006). If the content of the received mutual effect command is normal, the mutual effect is executed with the transmission source gaming machine based on the received mutual effect command.

[Sound control processing]
Next, the details of the sound control process (B1016) in the first main process described above will be described. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a procedure of sound control processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not the gaming machine 1 is in the testing mode (C1501). In the in-test mode (the result of C1501 is “Y”), it is not necessary to actually perform production control, so the sound control process is terminated.

  When the gaming machine 1 is not in the testing mode (the result of C1501 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not the sound information is abnormal (C1502). If the sound information is abnormal (the result of C1502 is “Y”), a sound stop process is executed to stop the sound output (C1506), and this process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if there is no abnormality in the sound information (the result of C1502 is “N”), the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not the cancel flag for canceling (stopping) the sound output is set to ON. Is determined (C1503). If the cancel flag is set to ON (result of C1503 is “Y”), a sound stop process is executed to stop the sound output (C1506), and this process ends.

  When the cancel flag is not set to ON (result of C1503 is “N”), the main control microcomputer 710 checks the currently set sound (C1504) and sets the sound to output the sound. Processing is executed (C1505).

[Sound setting processing]
Next, details of the sound setting process (C1505) in the sound control process described above will be described. FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a procedure of sound setting processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  When the sound setting process is executed, the main control microcomputer 710 first acquires new sound data (C1601). Further, the currently set sound data is acquired (C1602). Then, the new sound data and the currently set sound data are compared to determine whether there is any change in the sound (C1603).

  When there is no change in the sound (the result of C1603 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer 710 executes the processing after step C1611. On the other hand, when there is a change in the sound, that is, when switching to a new sound (result of C1603 is “N”), the process branches depending on the type of the new sound (C1604). Specifically, full rotation reach sound (C1605), customer waiting sound (C1606), first half fluctuation sound (C1607), second half fluctuation sound (C1608), fanfare sound (C1609), and other sounds (C1610) ) Is set.

  The main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not the currently set sound is not changed (result of C1603 is “Y”), or after setting a new sound, it is a sound switching timing (C1611). . The switching to the new sound is, for example, timing such as start / end of a variable display game, change in gaming state, occurrence of reach, and the like.

  When it is the sound switching timing (the result of C1611 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer 710 sets the currently output sound (sound) to stop (C1612).

  Thereafter, the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether to output data together with the sound (C1613). In the case of outputting data (the result of C1613 is “Y”), a setting is made so that a sound corresponding to the data is superimposed on the output sound (C1614). Note that data may not be embedded when a predetermined condition is satisfied, such as when an error occurs.

  The main control microcomputer 710 may output digital data when the player operates the effect button 17. For example, by operating the effect button 17, digital data that can register a player's game record in a mobile terminal (external device) such as a mobile phone is output. With this configuration, it is possible to simplify the operations necessary for obtaining and referring to the player's game record, and the player does not have to perform any troublesome operations.

[1st scene control processing]
Next, details of the 1st scene control process (B1012) in the 1st main process described above will be described. FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of the first scene control process according to the embodiment of this invention.

  First, the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not the gaming machine 1 is in the testing mode (B1101). In the case of the in-test mode (the result of B1101 is “Y”), it is not necessary to actually perform the production control, so the 1st scene control process is terminated.

  When the gaming machine 1 is not in the testing mode (the result of B1101 is “N”), the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not a scene change command transmitted from the gaming control device 600 has been received ( B1102). When the scene change command has not been received (the result of B1102 is “N”), the processing after step B1107 is executed.

  When the main control microcomputer 710 has received the scene change command (the result of B1102 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer 710 acquires the updated (current) gaming state (B1103). Further, it is determined whether a valid command is received (B1104). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the change destination scene matches the current gaming state. If the main control microcomputer 710 has not received a valid command (the result of B1104 is “N”), the main control microcomputer 710 executes the processing after step B1107.

  When receiving a valid command (result of B1104 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer 710 saves the received command in a predetermined area of the memory (RAM) (B1105). Further, an effect request flag is set (B1106). The effect request flag is a flag indicating that it is time to change the scene, and a process according to whether or not the effect request flag is set is executed in the changing process (B1111) described later.

  Subsequently, the main control microcomputer 710 executes processing according to the received command identifier (B1107).

  When the received command is a “power-on command”, the main control microcomputer 710 executes a power-on process (B1108). In the power-on process, the screen displayed when the gaming machine 1 is powered on is controlled.

  When the received command is a “power failure recovery command”, the main control microcomputer 710 executes a power failure recovery process (B1109). In the power failure recovery process, the screen displayed when the gaming machine 1 recovers from the power failure is controlled. It should be noted that no special process is executed when the customer waiting process is executed before the power failure.

  If the received command is a “customer waiting demo command”, the main control microcomputer 710 executes a customer waiting process (B1110). In the customer waiting process, the screen displayed when a predetermined time has elapsed since the last execution of the variable display game is controlled.

  When the received command is a “variation pattern command”, the main control microcomputer 710 executes the in-fluctuation process (B1111). In the changing process, information necessary for displaying a scene corresponding to the set change pattern is acquired, and effect control corresponding to the set change pattern is performed. Details of the changing process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  If the received command is a “symbol stop command”, the main control microcomputer 710 executes symbol stop processing (B1112). In the symbol stop process, the symbol variation display is stopped at the specified symbol.

  If the received command is a “fanfare command”, the main control microcomputer 710 executes fanfare processing (B1113). In the fanfare process, a fanfare Leon corresponding to the generated jackpot is output from the speaker 10.

  When the received command is the “large-open / open n-th command”, the main control microcomputer 710 executes the in-round processing (B1114). In the round process, effect control during each round in the special gaming state is performed.

  When the received command is an “interval command”, the main control microcomputer 710 executes interval processing (B1115). In the interval process, effect control between each round in the special gaming state is performed.

  When the received command is an “ending command”, the main control microcomputer 710 executes an ending process (B1116). In the ending process, effect control is performed when the special gaming state is finished.

  When the received command is a “game character selection command”, the main control microcomputer 710 executes a game character selection process (B1117). In the game character selection process, a screen for selecting a character corresponding to the player is displayed. Details of the game character selection process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  If the received command is a “customized screen command”, the main control microcomputer 710 executes a customized screen process (B1118). In the customization screen process, a screen for customizing the selected character is displayed. Details of the customization screen processing will be described later with reference to FIG.

  When the received command is an “area information update command”, the main control microcomputer 710 executes an area information update process (B1119). In the area information update process, a process such as changing the background accompanying the movement of the character is performed. In the area information update process, the contents of the effect are changed based on the change information of the player's character based on external input information by operating the effect button 17 or the like, or the game environment information of other gaming machines such as characters of other gaming machines. It functions as a production content changing means. Details of the area information update processing will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Subsequently, when the execution of the process based on each command is completed, the main control microcomputer 710 executes a selection screen transition process (B1121). In the selection screen transition process, a process for transitioning to a screen for selecting or customizing a character is executed. Details of the selection screen transfer process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Next, the main control microcomputer 710 executes symbol command reception processing (B1122). The symbol command includes information for designating a stop symbol.

  Further, the main control microcomputer 710 executes a hold number command reception process (B1123). The hold number command is a command for notifying the updated hold number. In the hold number command reception process, the hold display and the like are updated based on the received hold number.

  Next, the main control microcomputer 710 executes a prefetch command reception process (B1124). The pre-read command receiving process is a process of setting a hold display effect or the like based on a pre-design symbol command or the like.

  Next, the main control microcomputer 710 executes a probability information command reception process (B1125). The probability information command reception process is a process for setting a gaming state such as an internal probability based on the received probability information command. The probability information command includes, for example, a high accuracy / short time command, a low accuracy / short time command, a low accuracy / no support command, and the like.

[Selection screen migration processing]
Next, the details of the selection screen transition process (B1121) in the first scene control process described above will be described. FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of selection screen migration processing according to the embodiment of this invention. In the selection screen transition processing, processing for displaying a game character selection screen or a game character customization screen is executed.

  First, the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not an operation input of the effect button 17 has been received (C1701). If the operation input of the effect button 17 has not been received (the result of C1701 is “N”), this process ends.

  On the other hand, when the main control microcomputer 710 receives an operation input of the effect button 17 (the result of C1701 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not the variable display game is being executed (C1702). If the variable display game is being executed (the result of C1702 is “Y”), this process ends.

  Further, when the variable display game is not being executed (the result of C1702 is “N”), the main control microcomputer 710 branches the process with the operated effect button 17 (C1703). Specifically, it is determined whether the main button 170 is operated or the sub button 175 is operated.

  When the main button 170 is operated, the main control microcomputer 710 clears the effect button operation information (C1704) and sets the game character selection scene data (C1705). Thereafter, a game character selection screen is displayed based on the set game character selection scene data.

  On the other hand, when the sub button 175 is operated, the main control microcomputer 710 clears the effect button operation information (C1706) and sets customized screen scene data (C1707). Thereafter, the customization screen is displayed according to the set customization screen scene data.

[Game character selection processing]
Next, the details of the game character selection process (B1117) in the first scene control process described above will be described. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a procedure of game character selection processing according to the embodiment of the present invention. The game character selection process is executed in a state where the selection screen is displayed by the selection screen transition process (B1121 in FIG. 22).

  First, the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not an effect request flag is set (C1101). When the effect request flag is set (the result of C1101 is “Y”), for example, when a start winning is made, in order to preferentially execute the effect of the variable display game accompanying the start winning, a game character selection scene The data is cleared (C1115), and this process ends.

  When the production request flag is not set (result of C1101 is “N”), the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not there is an operation of the production button (C1102). If there is no operation of the effect button 17 (the result of C1102 is “N”), it is determined whether or not the value of the update timer has become 0 (C1114). When the value of the update timer becomes 0 (the result of C1114 is “Y”), the game character selection scene data is cleared (C1115), and this process ends. As described above, the present embodiment is configured to return to the normal effect screen when the effect button 17 is not operated for a predetermined time after the selection screen is displayed.

  On the other hand, when there is an operation of the effect button 17 (the result of C1102 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer 710 performs a character change process for changing the selected character to a character corresponding to the operated effect button. Execute (C1103). In selecting a character, the direction buttons 171 to 174 are operated, and the character selected by the main button 170 is determined.

  Further, the main control microcomputer 710 determines that the selected character is changed, or if the effect button 17 is not operated and the update timer is not 0 (the result of C1114 is “N”). ), It is determined whether or not the enter key (main button 170) has been selected (C1104). If the enter key is not selected (the result of C1104 is “N”), the process returns to the process of step C1102, and the input of the operation of the effect button 17 is awaited.

  On the other hand, when the main control microcomputer 710 determines the selected character (the result of C1104 is “Y”), the game character selection scene data is cleared (C1105), and an effect restriction flag is set according to the selected character ( C1106). In the present embodiment, four types of characters A to D can be selected. The main control microcomputer 710 then turns on the effect restriction flag corresponding to the selected character (C1107 to C1110).

  Thereafter, the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not the character selected by the other gaming machine intrudes at the time of production, that is, whether or not to allow mutual production (cooperative game) (C1111). When the intrusion is permitted (result of C1111 is “Y”), the intrusion prohibition flag is set to OFF (C1112). On the other hand, when intrusion is prohibited (result of C1111 is “N”), the intrusion prohibition flag is set to ON (C1112).

  As described above, when the main control microcomputer 710 executes the character selection process, character selection means is configured that allows the player to select a character from a predetermined character and a customized character.

[Customized screen processing]
Next, the details of the customization screen process (B1118) in the first scene control process described above will be described. FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating the procedure of the customization screen process according to the embodiment of this invention. The customization screen processing is executed in a state where the character customization screen is displayed by the selection screen transition processing (B1121 in FIG. 22). The character customization screen will be described later with reference to FIG.

  First, the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not an effect request flag is set (C1201). When the production request flag is set (the result of C1201 is “Y”), for example, when the start winning is made, the customized screen scene data is used in order to preferentially execute the production of the variable display game accompanying the start winning. Is cleared (C1208), and this process ends.

  When the production request flag is not set (the result of C1201 is “N”), the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether there is an operation of the production button (C1202). If there is no operation of the effect button 17 (the result of C1202 is “N”), it is determined whether or not the value of the update timer has become 0 (C1207). When the value of the update timer becomes 0 (the result of C1207 is “Y”), the customization screen scene data is cleared (C1208), and this process is terminated. Thus, in this embodiment, when the effect button 17 is not operated for a predetermined time after the selection screen is displayed, it is configured to return to the normal effect screen as in the case of game character selection. Yes.

  On the other hand, when there is an operation of the effect button 17 (result of C1202 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer 710 executes character customization processing for customizing the selected character (C1203). In the character customization process, the parts constituting the character are changed. Specifically, it will be described with reference to a screen example in FIG. When the customization of the character is completed, the customization content is determined by operating the main button 170.

  Further, the main control microcomputer 710 decides after the character is customized, or when the effect button 17 is not operated and the update timer is not 0 (the result of C1207 is “N”). It is determined whether the key (main button 170) has been selected (C1204). If the enter key is not selected (the result of C1204 is “N”), the process returns to the process of step C1202, and the input of the operation of the effect button 17 is waited.

  On the other hand, when the customization of the character is completed (the result of C1204 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer 710 clears the customization screen scene data (C1205) and deletes the customization screen. Finally, in order to set character information after customization, a custom character information setting process is executed (C1206), and this process ends.

  As described above, when the main control microcomputer 710 executes the customization screen process, the customization means that enables the player to edit the customized character is configured.

[Fluctuation processing]
Next, details of the changing process (B1111) in the first scene control process described above will be described. FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of the changing process according to the embodiment of this invention.

  First, the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not an effect request flag is set (B1201). When the effect request flag is set (result of B1201 is “Y”), various information is set.

  Specifically, the main control microcomputer 710 first clears the effect button related information (B1202). That is, information on operation of each button constituting the effect button 17 is cleared. Subsequently, the main control microcomputer 710 sets a movable body request (B1203). That is, the operation mode of the movable illumination or the electric accessory is set according to the contents of the production.

  Next, the main control microcomputer 710 executes variation pattern restriction processing (B1204). In the variation pattern restriction process, an effect control flag corresponding to the set effect restriction flag is set, and a process for performing an effect corresponding to the character selected by the player is performed. Details of the variation pattern limiting process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Further, the main control microcomputer 710 executes variation pattern information setting processing (B1205). In the variation pattern information setting process, a stop symbol of the special figure variation display game is set, or a variation time and a notice effect are set based on the variation pattern command.

  Next, the main control microcomputer 710 executes random number seed initialization processing (B1206). The random number seed initialization process is a process for initializing a random number seed used for determining the contents of the production.

  Further, the main control microcomputer 710 sets a scene sequence table corresponding to the set variation pattern (B1207).

  Further, the main control microcomputer 710 executes a variation count management process for managing the variation count (B1208). Further, the effect request flag is cleared (B1209), and the process during change ends.

  On the other hand, when the effect request flag is not set (result of B1201 is “N”), main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not to change the display effect state by the update timer. Specifically, first, it is determined whether the update timer is 0, that is, whether the time is up (B1211).

  When the update timer times out (the result of B1211 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer 710 sets the next scene data set in the scene sequence table (B1212), and ends the changing process. . The scene data set here reflects the character information (gaming environment information) of other gaming machines received by the external device communication process.

[Variation pattern restriction processing]
Next, details of the variation pattern restriction process (B1204) in the above-described variation process will be described. FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of the variation pattern restriction process according to the embodiment of this invention.

  First, the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not the effect restriction flag is set, that is, whether or not the character has been changed (C1301). If the production restriction flag is not set (the result of C1301 is “N”), that is, if the character has not been changed, this processing ends.

  On the other hand, when the production restriction flag is set (result of C1301 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer 710 clears information related to the production control flag in order to newly set character information. (C1302). Then, a flag corresponding to the selected character type is set.

  In this embodiment, in addition to the default characters A and B, the character C that can be customized by the player, and the character D that is selected as the default character when the player does not select a specific character. Either one is selected.

  When the production restriction flag A is set, the main control microcomputer 710 clears the production restriction flag A (C1304), and sets the production control A flag to execute the production corresponding to the character A. (C1305). Similarly, when the effect restriction flag B is set, the effect restriction flag B is cleared (C1306), and the effect control B flag is set to execute the effect corresponding to the character B (C1307).

  If the production restriction flag C is set, a custom character is selected. Then, the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not a custom character exists (C1308). If the custom character does not exist (the result of C1308 is “N”), the custom character cannot be used, so the character D that is the default character is used.

  On the other hand, when there is a custom character (the result of C1308 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer 710 clears the effect restriction flag C (C1309) and executes the effect corresponding to the character C. An effect control C flag is set (C1310). Further, the custom character information is confirmed (C1311). The custom character information is information such as parts constituting the character, and can be changed by the player via the customization screen as described above. Then, the custom character information is updated as necessary (C1312), and this process is terminated.

  Next, the main control microcomputer 710 clears the effect restriction flag D when the effect restriction flag D is set, that is, when a specific character is not selected (C1313). If the production restriction flag C is set and there is no custom character (the result of C1308 is “N”), the production restriction flag C is cleared. At this time, instead of clearing a specific effect restriction flag, all effect restriction flags may be cleared. Similarly, in the processes of C1304, C1306, and C1309, all effect restriction flags may be cleared.

  Finally, the main control microcomputer 710 sets an effect control D flag in order to execute an effect corresponding to the character D (C1314).

  As described above, when a character is selected, an effect control flag corresponding to the character is set, and an effect corresponding to the character is executed.

[Area information update processing]
Next, details of the area information update process (B1119) in the first scene control process described above will be described. FIG. 28 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of area information update processing according to the embodiment of this invention.

  In the area information update process, the character is displayed or moved according to the gaming environment. Moreover, based on the character information (game environment information) transmitted from other gaming machines, a character is arranged in a corresponding area.

  The main control microcomputer 710 first determines whether or not there is a change in the gaming environment (C1401). Whether there is a change in the gaming environment is determined by whether the gaming environment information has been updated. If there is no change in the gaming environment (the result of C1401 is “N”), this process ends.

  On the other hand, when there is a change in the gaming environment (the result of C1401 is “Y”), the main control microcomputer 710 executes processing according to the change in the gaming environment (C1402).

  When starting (changing) the identification symbol is started, the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not the number of change display games has reached 100 (C1403). When the number of executions of the variable display game has reached 100 (the result of C1403 is “Y”), the variable display game number flag is cleared (C1404). The number of times of execution of the variable display number is stored in the variable display game number flag. Then, the main control microcomputer 710 executes an area information 1 update process (C1405). In the area information 1 update process, the area information is updated by changing the background color or displaying a predetermined message.

  On the other hand, the main control microcomputer 710 ends this process when the number of times of the variable display game has not reached 100 (the result of C1403 is “N”). At this time, the value of the variable display game number flag may be updated, or may be updated at the start timing of the variable display game. Therefore, the area information is updated every time the display of the variable display game is executed 100 times.

  When the main control microcomputer 710 receives the operation signal of the effect button 17, the main control microcomputer 710 further executes processing according to the received operation signal (C1406). Specifically, processing corresponding to the operation of the direction buttons 171 to 174 is executed, and input signals from the direction buttons SW 171a to 174a are received. As described above, the direction buttons 171 to 174 correspond to the movement of the character, and the signals 1 to 4 are output to correspond to the movement in the upward, right, downward, and left directions. That is, the player inputs information (external input information) indicating the moving direction of the character with the direction buttons 171 to 174. Therefore, the effect buttons 17 including the direction buttons 171 to 174 constitute external input means for receiving external input information input by the player.

  When receiving the signal 1, the main control microcomputer 710 executes an area information 3 update process for moving the character upward (C1407). Similarly, when the signal 2 is received, an area information 4 update process for moving the character in the right direction is executed (C1408). Further, when signal 3 is received, area information 5 update processing for moving the character downward is executed (C1409), and when signal 4 is received, area information 6 update processing for moving the character leftward is executed (C1408). ).

  When the character is changed, the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not the character is actually changed (C1411). When the character is changed (the result of C1411 is “Y”), the area information 2 update process is executed (C1412), and the changed character is reflected on the screen.

  In other cases, the main control microcomputer 710 determines whether or not a big hit (small hit) has occurred in the variable display game, that is, whether or not a hit signal has been received (C1413). If a winning signal is received (the result of C1413 is “Y”), the process branches depending on the received winning signal (C1414). Then, the area information 7 update process is executed in the case of a probable hit (C1415), the area information 8 update process is executed in the normal hit (C1416), and the area information 9 update process is executed in the case of a small hit. Execute (C1417). In the present embodiment, when a big hit (small hit) occurs in the variable display game, the big hit (small hit) effect is executed, and the player's effect including the operation of the character is interrupted.

  The effect based on the gaming environment information transmitted from other gaming machines is not limited to the character display by the area information update process described here. For example, when an effect based on gaming environment information transmitted from another gaming machine is being executed, that is, when a cooperative game is being executed, the sound effect or music is changed, the background is changed, May be. Moreover, you may make it change the lighting aspect of the illumination unit 8 and the movable illumination 9. FIG.

  Furthermore, the result of the variable display game in another game machine that is performing a cooperative game may be reflected. For example, when a big hit occurs in another gaming machine, a special effect such as a power-up of the character may be executed.

  Moreover, you may make it change production content based on the time which continues a cooperative game. For example, when the cooperative game is continued for a long time, a special effect may be executed.

[Character selection / customization screen]
The above is the description of the processing in this embodiment. Next, a customization screen for creating a custom character will be described. FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of the custom character customization screen according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The screen (A) shows the first display unit 35a in a state where the start memory number is zero. When the PUSH button (the main button 170 of the effect button 17 or an arbitrary button may be operated) is operated at this timing, the currently set parts are displayed (screen (B)). In this embodiment, four types of parts that can be set are the head (hairstyle), eyes, clothes, and weapons, but other parts may be set.

  If customization is instructed while the screen (B) is displayed, the screen (C) is displayed. On the screen (C), the part to be set is selected by operating the direction buttons 171 to 174 and is confirmed by operating the decision button (main button 170). Then, returning to the screen (B), the confirmed parts are reflected in the character, so that the player can freely create the character.

  In this way, by providing a dedicated screen for creating a customized character and making it possible to create a character for direct use, the player can play with attachment.

  Next, a screen for selecting a character will be described. FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of screen transition at the time of character selection according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Screen (A) is a demonstration screen. Displayed when the state where the variable display game is not executed continues for a predetermined time. Screen (B) is in a state where the start memory is 0 after the variable display game is over. At this time, a message prompting the operation of the effect button 17 is displayed. When no character is selected at this timing, a character selection screen (screen (C)) is displayed. If a custom character has already been selected, the character customization screen shown in FIG. 29 may be displayed. Thus, by making it possible to easily transition to the custom character customization screen, it becomes possible for more players to easily create their own performance characters.

  On the character selection screen, a character is selected by operating the direction buttons 171 to 174. On the screen (C), the character to be selected is switched in order by operating the left and right direction buttons (172, 174), and the selected character is determined by operating the main button 170 (screen (D)). . At this time, if a customized character is selected, the customization screen shown in FIG. 29 may be displayed continuously by operating the sub button 175.

  When a character is selected, an effect corresponding to the selected character is executed as shown in the screen (E) and the screen (F). If no character is selected, a default character (character D) is selected.

[Modification of production display]
In the example shown in FIG. 14 and the like, the screen is configured such that the character of the player's own machine corresponding to the player moves from the lower left to the upper right of the screen. Here, another screen configuration example in which the character advances from the front of the screen to the back of the screen will be described. FIG. 31 is a diagram for explaining another example of the screen configuration of the first display unit 35a according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  In the example shown in FIG. 31, the screen is configured from the viewpoint of the character. Therefore, behind the selected character is displayed at the bottom of the screen. In the upper right, an area in which the decoration special figure variation display game is executed is secured. Further, the character moves on the partitioned area, and area information is set for each section.

  The movement of the character proceeds forward when the upward button 171 is operated, and returns backward when the downward button 173 is operated. The left and right direction buttons (172, 174) may move the character to the left or right, or may only change the traveling direction of the character. Further, when the variable display game is started, the player may move in the direction corresponding to the content of the presentation regardless of the player's operation.

  Screen (B) shows a state in which the character has advanced one unit in the direction of travel from the state of screen (A). In this case, since the position of the character is fixed, the screen is updated so that the background object or the like moves forward. As a result, the distance between the background object of the tree and the rock and the effect character in front is reduced, and the character is displayed as if it has advanced.

  When the screen is configured as shown in FIG. 31, since the moving area is expressed in a grid pattern, it is possible to display a wider area compared to the screen configuration shown in FIG. The second display unit 48 may not be provided.

[Prefetching]
Next, an example of performing a prefetch effect will be described. FIG.32 and FIG.33 is a figure which shows an example of the prefetch effect in embodiment of this invention.

  Referring to FIG. 32, in the screen (A) corresponding to the first display unit 35a, the start memory display (hold display) 280 is arranged at the lower right of the screen, and the look-ahead is changed by changing the display mode of each start memory. Production is performed. The screen (B) corresponding to the second display unit 48 displays area information corresponding to the screen (A).

  When the pre-reading effect is started, the main control microcomputer 710 collects information on the other gaming machines and calls and displays the characters 201 of the other gaming machines as shown in the screen (A) of FIG. At this time, only the characters of the gaming machine having a specific number of reserves may be displayed, or the number of characters to be displayed may be changed according to the reliability. If the reliability is high, a special character may be displayed. Also, as shown in the screen (B) of FIG. 33, the second display unit 48 displays a mark indicating the character 201 of another gaming machine.

  In addition, the character 201 of the other gaming machine that has been called up is updated to the position information of the movement destination. At this time, if the characters of the gaming machine with the specific number of holdings are gathered, the pre-reading effect may be executed also in the gaming machine corresponding to the gathered character 201. By configuring in this way, it is possible to obtain a benefit that a pre-reading effect is executed for a player of another gaming machine in which the character suddenly moves during the game. In the case of an ambiguous notification state in which the probability state is not clarified, the probability state may be notified instead of executing the prefetch effect.

[Direction on other gaming machines]
Next, the relationship with effects in other gaming machines will be described. 34 and 35 are diagrams for explaining an example of mutual effects between gaming machines according to the embodiment of the present invention. 34 and 35, (A) shows the first display part 35a of the gaming machine A, and (B) shows the first display part 35a of the gaming machine B in which another player is playing a game. .

  In FIG. 34, a normal effect is executed on both the gaming machine A and the gaming machine B, and neither the player of the gaming machine A nor the player of the gaming machine B can grasp that the characters are close to each other. It is in a state.

  Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 35, treasure boxes are displayed on the second display portions 48 of the gaming machine A and the gaming machine B. At this time, the treasure chests displayed on the gaming machine A and the gaming machine B are the same treasure chest. At this stage, the player of each gaming machine can be aware of the presence of the treasure chest. Further, since the same treasure chest is displayed on each gaming machine, only one of the player characters of each gaming machine can acquire the treasure chest.

  When any player character reaches the treasure box, some privilege is given. For example, when a big hit occurs, a reach develops in a running variable display game, or a reach occurs in a next variable display game, the fact may be notified. Further, if the start memory does not include a hold for generating a big hit or reach, special parts for customizing the character may be acquired from the treasure chest.

  FIG. 36 to FIG. 38 are diagrams for explaining an effect in which each character tries to acquire a treasure box when two characters find a treasure box in an example of a mutual effect between gaming machines according to an embodiment of the present invention. is there.

  FIG. 36 and FIG. 37 show how each character moves toward the treasure box after the treasure box is displayed on the map. 36A and 37A are screens displayed on the gaming machine A, and FIG. 36B is a screen commonly displayed on the gaming machine A and the gaming machine B. At this time, the game machine A and the game machine B may be displayed so that the character positions are reversed. FIG. 36 (B) shows a state where each character is moving toward the treasure box, and FIG. 37 (B) shows a state where each character approaches the treasure box.

  FIG. 38 shows a scene in which the character 200 of the gaming machine A acquires a treasure chest, and both (A) and (B) are screens that are displayed in common with the gaming machine A and the gaming machine B. . In (B), the treasure box is opened, and information (prefetch result) indicating the degree of expectation of reserved storage is displayed. Further, as described above, the latent probability change notification may be performed, or parts for character customization may be included.

  The contents of the treasure box are determined by lottery. If any character is not lottery, either character may be prevented from reaching the treasure box, or the contents of the treasure box may be empty even if the character is reached. Further, the interest of the game may be enhanced by making it possible to acquire, for example, parts for customizing the character that are not related to the result of the variable display game and the notification of the game state.

[Group production]
Finally, an effect of gathering a plurality of characters will be described. FIG. 39 and FIG. 40 are diagrams showing an example of the group gathering effect according to the embodiment of the present invention. 39A to 39D show characters displayed on each gaming machine.

  In FIG. 39E, an effect (mission mode) in which the character 201 is convened from other gaming machines (here, gaming machines B to D) that satisfy the predetermined condition in the gaming machine A is executed. The characters convened at this time are, for example, gaming machines having a specific number of reserved or more. The convened character is forcibly moved around the character 200 of the gaming machine A.

  Further, a gaming machine character 201 including a hold with a high expectation level for a big hit (for example, a hold in which a reach equal to or higher than an SP reach) may be included. In this case, since the player knows that the hold with high expectation is included, the player can function as a pre-reading effect. Thereby, the expectation of the player who plays a game with the convened character 201 can be increased, and the operation and interest of the gaming machine can be improved.

  In FIG. 40, (A) shows a mission to search for a treasure box within a predetermined number of turns, and the treasure box is searched by moving a character or the like. In (B), a treasure box is acquired, a notice that a high-expected degree of reserved storage is included, and gathered characters are dispersed as shown in the second display unit 48.

  As described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, a variety of effects can be achieved by changing the effect contents of the gaming machine that the player is playing based on the gaming environment information of other gaming machines. Can be executed. At this time, it is possible to automatically set the production based on the game environment information of the player's own machine and the game environment information of other machines, without requiring an action such as setting the production contents by the game store. Since it is possible to produce and not let the player get bored, the operating rate of the gaming machine can be increased and the interest can be improved.

  The present invention includes (1) a variable display device capable of executing a variable display game that displays a plurality of identification information in a variable manner based on the establishment of a start condition, a game control means for comprehensively controlling games, and a game control means. In response to the command, the effect control means for controlling a plurality of effect devices for effecting the game, and when the result mode of the variable display game becomes a predetermined special result mode, In a gaming machine that imparts a game value, including a sound source device capable of outputting a predetermined sound effect, the effect control means outputs a sound effect signal to the sound source device in response to a game effect, and the sound source device Is characterized in that a predetermined sound effect is output based on a sound effect signal output by the effect control means, and the sound effect includes digital data processed by an external device. In such a gaming machine, the following can be cited as typical ones of aspects of the present invention other than those described in the claims.

  (2) The gaming machine according to (1), wherein a sound effect for a performance related to a game can be output by an external device using the digital data.

  (3) The production control means includes a digital data embedding means capable of embedding the digital data in an output sound effect signal, and an abnormality determining means for judging abnormality of the gaming machine, wherein the digital data embedding means is The gaming machine according to (2), wherein the digital data is not embedded when it is determined that the abnormality is determined by the abnormality determining means.

  (4) The production control means includes a digital data embedding means capable of embedding the digital data in an output sound effect signal, and an abnormality determining means for judging an abnormality of the gaming machine, wherein the digital data embedding means is When an abnormality relating to illegal gaming is detected by the abnormality determining means, information indicating an abnormality relating to illegal gaming is embedded as digital data in the external device, and the gaming machine uses the digital data to execute illegal gaming in the external device. The gaming machine according to (1), which is capable of notifying abnormality relating to the game machine.

  (5) Storage means capable of storing the external device, launching means used for adjusting the launching force when launching a game ball in the game area, and whether the player touches the launching means provided in the launching means And a storage sensor that determines whether or not the external device is stored by collecting sound effects of the sound device in the external device, and a storage sensor that determines whether or not the external device is stored. Notification means for notifying when the storage determination means determines that it is in the storage state, and the effect control means is determined to be touched by the player based on the determination by the touch sensor, and the storage determination means (1) The game according to (1), wherein the digital data to be notified by the notification means is embedded in the sound effect by the digital data embedding means when it is determined as being stored by .

  For example, if the external device is a mobile terminal such as a mobile phone, the “storage means” may be a case that can store the mobile terminal in a gaming machine or a card unit, or a stand that can be installed. It may be something like this. Also, an acoustic device is provided inside the storage means, and the accuracy of communication can be improved by transmitting digital data from the acoustic device to an external device.

  According to the invention from the above viewpoint, since it is possible to transmit sound effects and transmit digital data, it is possible to produce effects without feeling uncomfortable and to exchange data with external devices.

  The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and non-restrictive in every respect. The scope of the present invention is defined not by the above description of the invention but by the scope of the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the scope of the claims.

  The gaming machine of the present invention is not limited to the pachinko gaming machine as shown in the above embodiment, but in a slot machine in addition to a gaming machine using a gaming ball such as an arranged ball gaming machine or a sparrow ball gaming machine. Is also applicable.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game machine 2 Main body frame 4 Opening / closing frame 5 Front frame 6 Glass frame 17 Effect button 30 Game board 31 Game area 35 Fluctuation display device 35a First display part 36 General-purpose start gate 37 First start winning opening 38 Second starting winning opening 48 Second display section 170 Main button 171 to 174 Direction buttons 200 to 202 Character 210 Background object 220 Map feature (area information)
600 Game control device 640 Payout control device (payout board)
700 Production Control Device 753 Volume Change Switch 780 Command Receiving Means 800 Power Supply Device

Claims (8)

Game control means for overall control of the game;
In a gaming machine comprising: an effect control means for controlling a plurality of effect devices for effecting a game in response to a command from the game control means.
The plurality of effect devices include a sound source device capable of outputting a predetermined sound effect,
The effect control means outputs a sound effect signal to the sound source device in response to the game effect,
The sound source device outputs a predetermined sound effect based on the sound effect signal output by the effect control means,
A gaming machine, wherein the sound effect includes digital data that can be processed by an external device. Comprising external input means for receiving external input information input by the player's operation,
The production control means includes
Character selection means for selecting at least one effect character from a plurality of effect characters determined in advance based on the external input information;
Gaming environment information output means for outputting information on the effect character selected by the character selection means as gaming environment information to other gaming machines other than the gaming machine;
Gaming environment information input means for receiving input of gaming environment information output by the other gaming machines;
Based on the gaming environment information input to the gaming environment information input means, the production content changing means for changing the production content of the gaming machine,
The sound source device functions as the gaming environment information output means by including the gaming environment information in the digital data,
2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the gaming environment information input unit accepts an input of the gaming environment information by extracting the digital data included in the sound effect. A variable display device capable of executing a variable display game that displays a plurality of identification information in a variable manner based on establishment of a start condition,
The variable display device displays a character and a background object as the effect display,
The production control means stores map information defining an area in which the character can move,
The gaming environment information includes the background object, the map information, and area information indicating position information of the character based on the map information,
The production control means includes area information update means for updating the area information based on a change in gaming environment information of the gaming machine,
The area information update means updates the area information based on the gaming environment information input by the gaming environment information input means,
3. The game according to claim 2, wherein the gaming environment information output means outputs the gaming environment information of the gaming machine to the other gaming machine when the gaming environment information of the gaming machine changes. Machine.   4. The gaming machine according to claim 3, wherein the effect control means performs the effect display based on the area information at the start of the variable display game. The effect control means includes display switching means for switching the effect character to a selectable state,
The display switching means, when detecting the input of the external input information in a state where the effect character can be selected, displays a state where one character is selected from the plurality of effect characters,
When the presentation control means detects the external input information in a state where one character is selected from the plurality of presentation characters, a state where a presentation character different from the currently selected character is selected. A selection state display means for displaying,
The gaming machine according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of performance characters include customized characters that can be edited by a player. The external input means is configured to be capable of outputting at least a main operation signal and a sub operation signal,
When the display switching unit detects the input of the main operation signal, the display switching unit switches the effect character to a selectable state,
The production control means includes customization means for switching the customized character to an editable state when the sub operation signal is input in a state where the customized character is selected by the selection state display means. The gaming machine according to claim 5. Starting memory means for storing the right to execute the variable display game as a starting memory up to a predetermined upper limit number based on the winning of the game ball to the starting opening;
The gaming environment information includes a start memory number stored in the start storage means,
The area information update means includes
If the starting memory number included in the gaming environment information of the other gaming machine input to the gaming environment information input means and the starting memory number of the gaming machine are each a predetermined number or more, the area of the gaming machine The gaming machine according to claim 6, wherein a command for updating area information of the other gaming machine based on the information is transmitted to the other gaming machine. A start memory display control means for displaying the start memory stored in the start memory means so as to be identifiable to the player;
When the area information is updated by receiving a command to update the area information, the start memory display control means is stored in the start memory means and identifies a start memory satisfying a predetermined condition The game machine according to claim 7, wherein the aspect is changed.